The Chatwal Launches an Exclusive Work-From-Hotel Package

February 24th, 2022

A playground for New York’s creative set, the Theater District has long been a source of endless inspiration for residents and visitors alike. And now that The Chatwal—a landmark building where the nation’s first professional theatrical club once gathered—has launched an exclusive Work-From-Home Offer, guests will be able to chase their creativity and boost their productivity while enjoying a change of scenery, including views of Manhattan’s skyline from their private outdoor terrace.

The offer includes 10% off a two-night minimum stay, Sunday through Wednesday, plus daily lunch from The Lambs Club delivered straight to your “desk,” complimentary daily butler services (shoe-shining, garment pressing and steaming) complimentary WiFi, and daily housekeeping service upon request.

With pandemic restrictions easing, including the lifting of the indoor mask mandate, there’s never been a better time to visit New York City, where guests of The Chatwal enjoy specialty access to Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and other top sights.

For an extra dose of inspiration, bed down in one of 14 suites with lush private terraces that overlook West 44th Street and Manhattan’s skyline. Or spark your creativity by opting for the Library Suite, which features a private library stocked with literary tomes and classics. After work hours, guests can work out in the on-site fitness center, or ask the concierge for the best local recommendations, whether it’s dinner reservations, art exhibitions, or walks in nearby Central Park.

The offer will end Labor Day; room rates start at $495+tax (pre-discount).

About The Chatwal Brand

With timeless elegance at its core in architecture, design and details, The Chatwal brand is committed to offering bespoke experiences and refined services. Created by the visionary hotelier and entrepreneur Mr. Sant Singh Chatwal, The Chatwal brand represents a seamless mélange of impeccable world-class interiors, serene wellness components, the finest in haute cuisine and elaborate wines, and a deep understanding of local cultures to provide guests with highly personalized and distinguished, luxury hospitality in some of the world’s most desirable locales. The flagship property, The Chatwal, New York, has been voted #1 Best Hotel in New York City by the 2021 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and #2 Top Hotel in New York City by the 2021 Travel + Leisure’s World Best Awards. Originally built in 1905 by Stanford White, the landmark hotel was restored and renewed by master architect Thierry  Despont and re-launched in 2010 with 76 creatively-appointed accommodations, several of which feature spacious outdoor terraces. April 29, 2022 will  debut  The Chatwal Lodge, The Catskills, NY, which will be followed by  2023 openings in San Miguel de Allende and Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico.

 

 

NANTUCKET REOPENS THIS SPRING

February 23rd, 2022

 

 

Nantucket: Why Go Now

With Easter, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day and other holidays right around the corner, it’s time to start planning a spring getaway to Nantucket. Get a jump start on the season by arriving in time for the reopening of hotels like White Elephant, overlooking the harbor; The Wauwinet, situated between two private beaches; The Cottages, perched on the Boat Basin; and the Jared Coffin House, a former whaling merchant’s home. All properties are enticing guests with the “Hot Dates, Cool Rates” promotion, which offers discounts of up to 25 percent off nightly rates. Many beloved restaurants like Brant Point Grill and TOPPER’s will also reopen, giving visitors the chance to nab reservations before the summer crowds descend.

As the mercury rises and flowers start to bloom, spring is one of the best times to get outdoors and explore the island, experiencing the full range of activities on offer—from golfing and sailing to surfcasting. Guests of White Elephant have complimentary access to Priority Bicycles, which they can use to peddle around the island, as well as a fleet of 2022 BMW vehicles, also available on a complimentary basis. Guests of the hotel are within strolling distance of beaches, the shops on Main Street, and several cultural centers. On April 23 and 24, the Daffodil Festival will take place on the island, kicking off a 2022 season of celebrations, many of which have been paused in recent years due to the pandemic: May 18-22 will see the return of the Nantucket Wine Festival; June 16-19 the Nantucket Book Festival; and June 22-26 the Nantucket Film Festival.

Suite Spotlight

The only bookable accommodation on Nantucket’s Main Street, 32 Main Street Loft is an airy 2,500-square-foot space with three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The light-drenched loft is located on the second floor of a historic brick building and features sleek, contemporary furnishings and large picture windows with views of Main Street. Perfect for large families or big groups, the pied-à-terre-style accommodation has an expansive living space, an open kitchen, and a dining table that seats 8. Guests also have access to the pool and cabana area at White Elephant, a short walk away.

‘Woof There it Is’

The whole family (four-legged members, included) is welcome at the one- and two-bedroom Woof Cottages. Located at the Nantucket Boat Basin, the Cottages give the impression of sleeping on the water, with large decks overlooking the harbor. These cottages give pets the VIP treatment, with beds, a welcome basket of treats and toys, food and water bowls, and personalized pet tags. For recommendations on the island’s most pet-friendly activities—including the best places to run free, play fetch, and settle down for lunch—email local insider Bailey, a black lab/Brittany Spaniel mix, at petconcierge@thecottagesnantucket.com. Nightly rates start at $275.

How to Travel to the Island

JetBlue, United and American Airlines are re-launching direct service to the island beginning in May from east coast cities including Boston, New York, Newark, Washington D.C. and Charlotte. Roundtrip flights from New York start at $140 while nonstop service from Washington D.C. dips as low as $180 roundtrip. Seastreak Ferry’s seasonal service between Manhattan and Nantucket will also return on weekends beginning June 16.

 

Celebrate Women’s History Month

February 18th, 2022

March is Women’s History Month – a time to (extra) celebrate the accomplishments of our leading ladies. From tours through wine country to dedicated suites, here are inspiring destinations to visit that pay homage to female powerhouses, plus a shoutout to our favorite fearless females.

Female-Focused Suites

Portofino, Italy

Celebrating the iconic 1950s era that defined Portofino’s glamorous past, Splendido Mare, a Belmond property dedicated the penthouse suite to Ava Gardner, as a nod to her stay at the guest house while filming Barefoot Contessa in 1954. Following its complete renovation 2021, the redesigned suite spans the entire top floor of the seaside retreat and features subtle references to the actress in the décor: original vintage photographs of Ava in the artwork selection and coffee table books that relate to her.

Nantucket, MA

Throughout the 1800s, Nantucket was home to more history-making women than anywhere else in the country. At the time, American women could not vote, own property or access higher education. Whaling, the island’s isolated location and Quakerism all played a role in championing women’s rights. As a nod to the island’s history-making females, for suites at the Jared Coffin House, a former whaling merchant’s home, were named after an influential woman from Nantucket. Anna Gardner was instrumental in calling an anti-slavery meeting in 1841 during which Frederick Douglass gave his first speech as an abolitionist speaker. Lucretia Coffin Mott participated in the country’s first meeting about women’s rights in 1848. Maria Mitchell is the first professional female astronomer who opened her own school in 1835 that was desegregated, a controversial move at the time. Mary Coffin Starbuck is recognized for bringing Quakerism to Nantucket in the early 1700s and she ran a trading post that served as the island’s commercial center. The Jared Coffin House is open year-round. Rates start at $145 per night.

Scotland

The Fife Arms, the 19th century hunting lodge in Braemaer Scotland owned by art industry power couple Iwan and Manuela Wirth (of Hauser and Wirth), is inspired by Queen Victoria. The property is just up the road from Balmoral Castle, the residence of the Royal Family. Queen Victoria put Braemar on the map when she purchased Balmoral in 1852 and pioneered fresh air holidays in the destination. Rooms and suites are inspired by some of Braemar’s most noble visitors, including Queen Victoria herself as well as poets Nan Shepard and Marion Angus, Doctor Elsie Inglis, fashion magazine editor Frances Farquharson, and Princesses Louise and Frances Dolgorouki. Each room is a celebration of their involvement in the expansion of Braemar as a destination for visitors around the world.

Women-Led Experiences

Napa Valley, CA

Visit Napa Valley in partnership with West Wine Tours offers the “Women in Wine Country” tasting tour. The privately guided experience brings groups of up to six guests through the vines of Napa Valley in an Instagram-worthy vintage Volkswagen bus. The journey includes three wineries with women winemakers at the helm. Stops include St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery by Elaine St. Clair, who is the only woman in the U.S. to hold the commercial title of both winemaker and brewer; and Fantesca Estate & Winery by Heidi Barrett, who is known as “The First Lady of Wine” and is behind California’s most notable cult wines, such as Screaming Eagle. The final stop is Crocker & Starr, owned by founding winemaker, Pam Starr. With a career spanning four decades, she is celebrated for her Sauvignon Blanc and sustainable farming practices. Each stop will include a tasting experience and guests may even get a behind-the-scenes sneak peek with the winemakers themselves. Private transportation for up to six guests, including a driver and lunch costs $650 per bus. Tasting experiences are an additional $240 per person. For more information, visit: https://www.westwinetours.com

Scotland

The Fife Arms in the Scottish Highlands recently lifted the veil on a new whisky bar, Bertie’s. The bar offers 365 whiskies from Scotland and around the world, curated by flavor profile: Fragrant, Fruity, Rich and Smoky. Whisky Ambassador Katy Fennema leads experiences such as flights, tastings, and tours of local distilleries. Fennema is also a consultant for the Edinburgh Whisky Academy. Fun fact: women now account for 30-40% of consumers of whisky.

Who Runs the World? Girls!

Tessa Hempson… is the marine scientist and program manager behind andBeyond’s Ocean Without Borders project in East Africa. Tessa has spent her career exploring and studying oceans around the world, having worked as a helicopter underwater evacuation instructor for the Australian Defense Force; a conservation manager for the Sustainable Seas Trust (SST); and a researcher on the Aldabra Atoll World Heritage Site in the Seychelles. Guests of andBeyond’s three island lodges in Mozambique and Zanzibar can join Tessa in conservation experiences like fish tagging, measuring and monitoring reef systems in the Indian Ocean.

Florence Kuyper …is an expedition leader and naturalist guide on PONANT’s new Le Commandant Charcot. A self-proclaimed polar fanatic, she spends much of the year in 24-hour daylight, splitting her time between navigating the icy waters in the Arctic and Antarctica. But she’s not averse to a bit of heat. She also once crossed the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, walking almost 800 miles alongside a camel caravan. In addition to leading almost 100 expeditions to the poles, Kuyper also spent five months as a base leader in Port Lockroy, a British station on the Antarctic peninsula. Guests can join her on expeditions that explore Peter I Island - where fewer people have visited than the moon, and Charcot Island - located in the Southern Ocean, which is covered in ice for most of the year making it difficult to reach and practically unexplored.

Bernie Gallagher…is Chairman of The Doyle Collection, the family-owned, Irish hotel group with properties in Dublin, London, Cork, Bristol, and Washington, DC. In additional to being meticulously detail-orientated in the running of each hotel, she is passionate about supporting and uplifting women. She spearheads the group’s annual initiative to support women in business by offering complimentary professional headshots in each of their city locations. Often securing a professional profile shot often falls to the wayside. The Doyle Collection is inviting women to book a slot with a professional female photographer, who will ensure they are comfortable within the stylish hotel surroundings, and each will receive a digital headshot that can be used as a valuable marketing tool – whether it be for website, social media, LinkedIn profiles or press outreach. (In Washington, DC, this will take place on March 8 at The Dupont Circle hotel.)

 

THE DOYLE COLLECTION’S “INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY HEADSHOT INITIATIVE” RETURNS

February 16th, 2022

The Doyle Collection Hotel Group announces its annual International Women’s Day initiative, offering complimentary professional headshots for women in Washington D.C., London, Dublin, Bristol and Cork.

To celebrate International Women’s Day 2022, The Doyle Collection hotels in Ireland, the UK and stateside in Washington D.C will host their annual initiative to support women in business, offering complimentary professional headshots in each city location.  The day-long initiative will run at The Dupont Circle in Washington D.C on Tuesday, March 8th, 2022 and at The Marylebone in London, The Bristol in Bristol, The Westbury in Dublin, and The River Lee in Cork.

Whether working within an international firm or as an entrepreneur building a business, securing a professional profile shot often falls to the wayside. The Doyle Collection will invite women to book a slot with a professional female photographer, who will ensure they are comfortable within the stylish hotel surroundings. Each guest will be provided with a digital headshot that can be used as a valuable marketing tool – whether it be for website, social media, LinkedIn profiles or press outreach. In Washington, D.C., sessions will run from 9am – 5pm on March 8th with refreshments served throughout the day. Bookings will be available from 11:00am on Tuesday, February 22nd via this link: https://doylecollectioniwdheadshotinitiative.eventbrite.com.

The Doyle Collection will celebrate its very own amazing women through a social media campaign that runs from Monday, February 28th – Friday, March 4th, highlighting some of the exceptional individuals who contribute to the Group’s ongoing success. The initiative is proudly supported by The Doyle Collection’s Chairman, Bernie Gallagher, daughter of the group’s founder, PV Doyle. Mrs. Gallagher leads the family-owned hospitality group and is determined to empower the next generation of international businesswomen.

Mrs. Gallagher says: ‘International Women’s Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate the incredible women around the world who continue to strive in business at all levels. Our headshot initiative aims to uplift women, providing them with truly useful tools to assist their continued successes. We are delighted to be able to support female founders, women in business, entrepreneurs and those in the creative industries in Ireland, the UK and Washington D.C.’

ENDS

For press enquiries, please contact Alice Marshall Public Relations: sybil@alicemarshall.com

ABOUT THE DOYLE COLLECTION

At the heart of The Doyle Collection is a warmth of service that stems from family ownership, imbuing each of the eight hotels with the familiarity of a member’s club and the intimacy of a private home. Each hotel sits within a landmark building in unrivalled city locations and has its own distinct personality that is rooted in, and authentic to, its local neighborhood. The design-led properties provide modern havens for modern day travelers, as well as stylish bars and restaurants for local consumers. For more details, please visit www.doylecollection.com

 

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya Announces an Authentic Mexican Legend Fully Reimagined

February 15th, 2022

Opening May 25, 2023

February 15, 2022 – Lauded for paying homage to the history and culture of each destination across its global portfolio, Belmond announces restoration plans for the iconic Mexican beach retreat, Maroma.

Nestled between 200 acres of dense tropical jungle and the white sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya will reopen on May 25, 2023 following an extensive renovation and redesign by internationally renowned designer Tara Bernerd and her team. With buildings aligned to the Sacred Geometry of Mayan masons, the storied hideaway will be completely reimagined while honoring Mexican artisanal traditions, authentic craftsmanship, and local materials throughout the interiors.

Inspired by the surrounding nature and ancient healing rituals, the indoor-outdoor spa will be a place to nurture one’s mind and feel rejuvenated, whilst the four dining destinations that celebrate Mexico’s regional cuisines will delight the senses. Overlooking one of the finest beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula, with access to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, this intimate escape with just 72 rooms, suites and villas, will invite guests to experience pure, refined vitality on the enchanted Riviera Maya.

To stay up to date as the story unfolds on the reopening of Maroma, follow @belmondmaromaresort or visit belmond.com.

 

About Belmond

Belmond has been a pioneer of luxury travel for over 45 years, building a passion for authentic escapes into a portfolio of one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring destinations.

Since the acquisition of the iconic Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has continued to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, taking discerning global travellers on breathtaking journeys. Its portfolio extends across 24 countries with 46 remarkable properties that include the illustrious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, remote beach retreats like Cap Juluca in Anguilla, Italian hideaways such as Splendido in Portofino, or unrivalled gateways to world natural wonders such as Hotel das Cataratas inside Brazil’s Iguazu National Park. From trains to river barges, safari lodges to hotels, each unique property offers an incomparable experience with its own story to tell. The essence of the Belmond brand is built upon its heritage, craftsmanship and genuine, authentic service. Belmond sees its role as custodians of timeless heritage, dedicated to preserving its assets through sensitive ongoing restoration plans. Belmond is part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.

Belmond.com

About Tara Bernerd & Partners

Globally renowned designer Tara Bernerd is the founder of the interior architectural practice, Tara Bernerd & Partners. Since founding Tara Bernerd & Partners in 2002, Bernerd has earned a reputation as one of the world’s foremost interior architectural designers.

 

Tara Bernerd & Partners’ inhouse team of architects, designers, product designers and CGI artists has an innate understanding of luxury, with projects ranging from Hotels and Restaurants, to Commercial Residential Developments, Yachts and the occasional Private Residence. The international portfolio comprises properties from London to New York, Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, Munich, Vienna, Marbella, Hong Kong and beyond. Key clients include Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons, Fort Partners, Harilela Hotels, Conrad Hotels, Related, Thompson Hotels, The SIGNA Group, the Berkeley Group, Couture Homes, Asia Standard, Palace Hotel Group and more.

TaraBernerd.com


8 Gifts for Travel Enthusiast Moms Who Buy Sustainable

February 15th, 2022

The Fife Arms, the 19th-century hunting lodge in The Scottish Highlands owned by art world power couple Iwan and Manuela Wirth, is the perfect spot for mom and the whole family. But those who can’t make it across the pond immediately can still bring a piece of the destination home. Thanks to the Fife Arms’ online shop, guests and fans can find artfully curated products for every type of mom.

FOR THE MOM WHO COULD USE SOME ZZs:

Don’t all moms need a little R&R? The new Rosie Sugden for The Fife Arms cashmere sleep time gift set ($185) includes an eye mask and a cable-knit hot water bottle cover in 100% Scottish cashmere. The set comes in olive and burgundy.

It doesn’t get more cozy than The Fife Arms tartan blanket (from $294) which draws on colors and textures of Braemar and comes in 100% lambswool and 100% Scottish cashmere options.

FOR THE FASHIONISTA MOM:

Designed exclusively for the hotel, the Iseabal Hendry circular bag ($1,722) is handmade in Scotland, with a focus on zero-waste principles, and comes with a handle and a strap as well as card holder in contrasting deep burgundy suede.

An indulgent and highly personalized option is a custom tartan and tweed design gift box ($1,728). Each gift box contains a voucher for a bespoke tweed or tartan design, a short history of the craft, description of the stages involved, as well as some swatches and examples of what can be created.

FOR THE DOG MOM:

The exclusive dog collection is perfect for Fido’s mom. The collection includes a chic coat (from $45), almost-too-pretty-to-chew bone ($18), a tweed and leather leash ($49) and collar ($42), all made with the Fife Arms house tweed, created by Scottish textile designer Araminta Campbell. There’s even a dogrobe (from $52) – yes, a bathrobe for a dog.

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS MOM:

Alec Finlay is one of the most distinguished contemporary artists of Scotland, a recent recipient of the Cholmondeley Award where the Society of Authors in the UK honors distinguished poets. His words, ‘the lowly foot gets you up high,’ are carved on a handmade wooden walking stick ($346) – perfect for a hike or just a leisurely walk in nature.

FOR THE MOM WHO LIKES TO ENTERTAIN:

If mom’s idea of getting outside is a bit more ceremonious, this picnic basket ($572) should do the trick. Handcrafted in England from handwoven willow and leather with hemp rope handles, the interior is lined in the Fife Arms tweed and contents include: classic Ghillie kettle, glass and cup holder, four enamel plates and cups, four glass tumblers, stainless steel cutlery, a cotton tote bag, and a Fife Arms waterproof, 100% wool picnic blanket.

The ultimate gift for fans of The Crown and Downton Abbey, this exclusive tea set for two ($106) includes two large teacups and saucers. What’s more, the package comes with a tin of Brodies 1867 Royal Sottish loose leaf tea. One of the founders, Robert Drysdale, is credited to be the first tea manufacturer in the UK to produce breakfast tea. It is said that Queen Victoria enjoyed the blend so much that she brought a supply from Balmoral to England, where it was renamed as ‘English Breakfast Tea.’

 

PONANT AND SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS ANNOUNCE 2023 SMALL SHIP EXPEDITIONS 

February 14th, 2022

New Itineraries will Feature Smithsonian-crafted Cultural Experiences Onboard and on Land

PONANT, a leader in small ship expeditions, announces its 2023 sailings in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. Drawing on Smithsonian’s resources dating back 175 years, the sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys are rooted in common values – focusing on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of further inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel. This is the second year PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys will offer co-branded sailings.

Twenty-one departures, with several new itineraries exploring the Arabian Coast, Australia’s Kimberley, the Mediterranean, the St. Lawrence River, and Northern Africa will debut in 2023 and will provide opportunities to engage with a variety of Smithsonian Journeys Experts, ranging from archaeologists and scientists to anthropologists and historians. As part of the itineraries, PONANT will sail to ports of call never previously visited, including Ploče, Croatia and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.  The full list of sailings can be viewed here. Highlights include:

NEW: Cruising the Arabian Coast, Le Bougainville

While traveling from Dubai to Muscat, Karl Eikenberry, former U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, will lead discussions centered around Middle East affairs. With seven ports of call, highlights ashore will include a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building; a tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an Arabic-galactic wonder with more than 600 works spread across 23 galleries; and the opportunity to discover Sir Bani Yas Island’s wildlife sanctuary with its roaming giraffes, cheetahs, and gazelles. The ship will also sail through the fjords of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, affectionally known as the “Norway of the Middle East,” where the sheer walls of limestone cliffs plunge into aquamarine waters.

Departure on January 6, 2023 / 8 nights, 9 days

Starting from $6,070 per person

NEW: Solar Eclipse 2023: Indonesia to Australia’s Kimberley, Le Lapérouse

Witness the total solar eclipse out to sea off the northwest coast of Australia – the only area of the world where the solar eclipse will be 100 percent visible. On April 20, 2023, guests will witness the natural phenomenon as the moon passes between the earth and then sun, enveloping travelers in complete darkness for a few minutes. This will be one of only five total solar eclipses remaining worldwide this decade. Accompanying the expedition will be Alex Young, solar astrophysicist who serves as an Associate Director of Science at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center located outside Washington D.C.

Departure on April 9, 2023 / 15 nights, 16 days

Starting from $15,770 per person

NEW: Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast, Le Dumont-d’Urville

Explore the Portuguese, Moroccan and Spanish coasts, traveling from Casablanca to Lisbon with a stop in Tangier, along the famous Strait of Gibraltar. A highlight includes a trip to Granada for an exclusive private after-hours visit of the Alhambra.  After a visit to Marbella, the ship will continue to Cadiz, from which guests can travel to Seville, home to the oldest royal palace in use in Europe, the Alcázar de Sevilla. Engaging discussions will be hosted by Alia Kate, North African international relations expert and founder of Kantara, a fair-trade design business specializing in Moroccan rugs woven in women’s weaving cooperatives; and Rafael Chacon, art historian who has twice walked the Camino de Santiago, the ancient pilgrimage route stretching more than 500 miles across France and Spain.

Departure on April 20, 2023 / 7 nights, 8 days

Starting from $4,530 per person

NEW: A Circumnavigation of Sicily, Le Bougainville

Embark on a circumnavigation of Sicily, joined by Albert Leonard, archaeologist who has directed excavations at sites around the Mediterranean during his 30-year career. Travelers will visit the well-preserved Greek ruins in Agrigento, one of the oldest cities is Sicily dating back to 581 B.C., before continuing to Segesta, home to the unfinished Doric Temple. Guests can meander through the ancient (but still used) Greek theater from the third century B.C. during a stop in Taormina and see the Byzantine-Arab mosaics while visiting Palermo. The itinerary offers the opportunity for an evening sail around one of mother nature’s most spectacular sights: the Stromboli Volcano, considered one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The fiery crater spews fountains of glowing red lava every few hours and is best seen at night.

Departure on May 4, 2023 / 7 nights, 8 days

Starting from $5,120 per person

NEW: Symphony on the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes, Le Bellot

This itinerary starts in Toronto and ends in Gloucester, Massachusetts, exploring the waterways of eastern Canada and northern New England. A sample of stops include the charming Canadian coastal towns of Tadoussac, Percé, Charlottetown, and Lunenburg, before heading south to explore the wildlife-rich ecosystem of Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine. A musical program curated by legendary Boston Pops Conductor, Keith Lockhart, will be performed by six extraordinary musicians. Maestro Lockhart will conduct four exclusive performances throughout the sailing.

Departure on October 16, 2023 / 14 nights, 15 days

Starting from $11,860 per person

About  PONANT

Created in 1988, by officers of the French Merchant Navy, PONANT has created a new style of cruising, under the French flag, through a unique conception of sea travel and a commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. Accessing exceptional territories aboard yachts featuring refined design, on which the art of living and excellent cuisine takes pride of place: such is the promise of a unique and authentic PONANT voyage.  For more information on PONANT’s worldwide itineraries to the Arctic, Antarctica as well as in the Atlantic and North Europe, Asia, Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, Eastern Asia, Oceania, Central and South America, visit https://us.ponant.com call 1-844-747-2873 or contact your travel advisor.

About the Smithsonian

Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries.  Two of the 21 museums – the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum – are in the early planning stages. The total number of objects, works of art, and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 155 million, of which nearly 146 million are scientific specimens at the National Museum of Natural History. www.smithsonian.org

About Smithsonian Journeys

Smithsonian Journeys is part of Smithsonian Enterprises, a division of the Smithsonian which oversees the institution’s commercial activities, including the Smithsonian Channel, which is available in over 55 million households globally; the retail operation, which includes 35 museum and airport stores, food concessions; an E-commerce business, Smithsonianstore.com, and Smithsonian magazine, which reaches more than 8 million monthly readers, consumer and education licensing, and books. Smithsonian Journeys is a global leader in cultural travel for diverse audiences, offering unique, expert-led trips on all seven continents. Smithsonian Journeys offers small-group land journeys, ocean cruises, river cruises, active journeys, cultural stays, private jet trips, tailor-made journeys for the independent traveler and student travel programs. For more information visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org or call 1-855-330-1542.

 

###

Media Only:

Lauren Wintemberg, Alice Marshall Public Relations ; 212-861-4031;  lauren@alicemarshall.com

Angela Ferragamo, Smithsonian Journeys; 202-633-6028; ferragamoa@si.edu

 

VIRTUOSO® REVEALS WHAT’S HAPPENING NEXT IN TRAVEL

February 14th, 2022

NEW YORK (February 14, 2022) – Virtuoso®, the global network specializing in luxury and experiential travel, has identified when, where and why the affluent will be venturing in 2022. To find the most compelling trends, Virtuoso gathered insights from its travel advisors, partners and high net worth/ultra-high net worth clientele, conducted ongoing surveys, and tapped into its data warehouse of more than $49.5 billion in transactions. Top revelations include delayed celebrations as a driving motivator for travel, people increasingly eyeing international destinations, and while the pandemic continues to impact mobility, the optimism and appetite for travel remain strong.

A Travel State of Mind

As omicron cases are on a downward trajectory, what was a deterrent for travel only weeks ago is now a motivating factor. People who have contracted and recovered from the virus are viewing their “antibody window” as the ideal time to get away. Virtuoso advisors are reporting that clients have contacted them to plan their next vacation while they are still in quarantine. This aligns with a January 2022 poll by Virtuoso, where 85 percent of travelers said they are in a ‘ready to travel’ mindset. The intent to travel is strong, with 86 percent of travelers polled saying they plan to travel internationally this year, and Virtuoso anticipates bookings will continue to trend upwards at the end of Q1 and into the second quarter as the omicron wave subsides.

Where to Next? Hint: Globetrotters are Going Big and Spending Big

Virtuoso experts say 2022 will be the year of once-in-a-lifetime, Wanderlist® trips. Tapping into their advisors specializing in exclusive excursions, Virtuoso found that 76 percent have seen a recent increase in ultraluxe travel with African safaris, Caribbean islands, international city destinations, and ocean cruises as the top preferred experiences. Full findings of the survey can be viewed here. The uptick in high-end travel is the result of pent-up demand and expanded financial means. The ability to spend more is a plus since travel inflation means costs are on the rise. Virtuoso bookings show future hotel rates are up 54 percent internationally and as much as 80 percent within the U.S., while airfares for this spring are up 19 percent over 2019.

Travel Advisors vs. DIY: No Contest

Peace of mind is hard to come by in the midst of a global pandemic, but travel advisors continue to prove their value to both their clients and the overall travel industry. Even during ‘normal’ times, planning travel isn’t always straightforward. With international travel rules in flux, it has never been more important to turn to an advisor to plan, book and, most importantly, ensure there is a backup plan in the event of travel disruptions. Advisors continue to show their worth, driving demand for professional planning as Virtuoso reports that requests from people seeking an advisor grew 50 percent last year compared to 2020.

Celebration Travel: Grab the Gang

Making up for the lost year (or two) of missed milestones has become a priority for those seeking to reconnect with loved ones. Seventy-eight percent of Virtuoso advisors have seen an uptick in celebration travel, with anniversaries and notable birthdays being the primary motivators. Multi-generational travel continues to drive family gatherings with Mexico and Caribbean islands holding the top spots for preferred destinations. When asked, 95 percent of advisors also believed celebration travel will continue to be a top trend through 2022.

The Conscious Comeback

The pandemic is leading people to be more cognizant of their impact on the world, and this has led to what Virtuoso calls “the conscious comeback.” In a recent Virtuoso survey, 82 percent of travelers said the pandemic has made them want to travel more responsibly in the future and 78 percent said it’s important to choose travel companies that have a strong sustainability policy, moving them to seek out companies committed to what Virtuoso calls the three pillars of sustainability: protecting the planet, supporting local economies and celebrating cultures. And 70 percent agreed that traveling sustainably enhances their vacation experience. Complete insights can be found in the Virtuoso Sustainability White Paper available here.

2022 Hotel Openings to Watch

Virtuoso’s 2021 hotel bookings were up 87 percent over 2020, and the momentum continued with January 2022 bookings up 119 percent compared to the same time last year. City hotels led the way, with January 2022 bookings soaring 240 percent over January 2021. Tracking the hottest hotels opening around the globe, Virtuoso has named these as the ones to watch:

The Madrid EDITION – Opening Q2, 2022: Set near Puerta de Sol in the heart of the Spanish capital and within walking distance to The Golden Triangle of Art – one of the most highly regarded art museums in Madrid – the hotel will offer 200 guest rooms and suites.

The Fifth Avenue Hotel – Opening Spring 2022: Housed in one of New York City’s architectural masterpieces from 1907, the Martin Brudinski-designed hotel masterfully mixes the old and the new. Two contrasting yet complementary structures comprise the hotels: “The Mansion” which houses 24 guestrooms and The Tower with 129.

Waldorf Astoria Cancun – Opening July 1, 2022: Spanning 100-acres of secluded palm-fringed coastline, the resort will offer a blend of traditional Mexican heritage and modern elegance. The 178 guestrooms and suites will feature private swim-up pools, while the spa will offer treatments that harness the healing power of local ingredients.

Atlantis The Royal Dubai – Opening Q3, 2022: The city’s newest icon will be home to 795 rooms and suites – including some with their own private pool – plus a Michelin-worthy selection of dining venues and a 300-foot-high infinity edge sky pool.

 

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 20,000 travel advisors in 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.

 

Media Contacts:

Misty Belles

Virtuoso – Vice President, Global Public Relations

mbelles@virtuoso.com

202.553.8817

Lauren Wintemberg

Alice Marshall Public Relations – Senior Account Director

212.861.4031

Why Travel to Todos Santos? News from Paradero Hotels

February 11th, 2022

Since opening in February 2021, Paradero Hotels has set a new bar for luxury tourism in Baja California Sur. Its striking architecture, pilgrimage-worthy restaurant, distinct landscapes, and roster of one-of-a-kind activities have drawn travelers far and wide and furthered Paradero’s mission to serve the local community. With new series and pop-up events launching frequently—from musical performances to wellness weekends—Paradero continues to deliver extraordinary experiences while highlighting the region’s very best.

New Culinary Experience

The restaurant at Paradero is a destination in its own right, with an elevated open-fire kitchen turning out creative, inventive dishes with a sense of place and continuously innovating the menu to take local flavors and regional techniques to new heights.

This month, Paradero is launching a new Omakase Bar, with flavors and ingredients inspired by the Indigenous Pericú people, the first inhabitants of the Los Cabos region. The Pericú—whose culture and language disappeared in the 18th century—primarily turned toward the sea for sustenance, catching fish and shellfish from the Gulf of California, as well as harvesting agave and hunting local game.

The Omakase experience will consist of 5-6 courses plus drinks, and the chef and team will guide guests through the culinary journey, speaking to the significance of each course. The experience starts at $135 USD + tax + service, per person, and lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

At Paradero, simple, elevated dishes are made up of a maximum of 5 ingredients, all of which are grown in-house or sourced from family farms and other local purveyors in Todos Santos. Guests sit around the open-air kitchen and watch the culinary team prepare dishes over an authentic Oaxacan clay and Josper wood-fired ovens and a traditional hibachi grill.

New Winter Offer

In celebration of its first anniversary (February 2022), Paradero is offering guests a choice of amenities along with a special rate when booking a minimum two-night stay this winter. Guests who act on the exclusive offer will also receive perks including a 30-minute neck massage (one per person, per stay) or a three-course chef’s menu dinner for two—plus complimentary on-the-go Mexican breakfast (one per person, per day). The anniversary offer is valid for new bookings until March 31, 2022. Rates start at $550 per night. All bookings are subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. The offer cannot be combined with other packages.

Why Todos Santos?

Located less than 50 miles from San Jose del Cabo Airport, Todos Santos is a bohemian surf town with astounding natural beauty, a red-hot culinary scene, and 355 days of sunshine per year. The town, which has been designated a Pueblo Mágico and an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasts a variety of distinct landscapes—from cacti-covered forests and unspoiled Pacific Coast beaches to the imposing Sierra La Laguna Mountain range—drawing adventure travelers from all over the world. The options for outdoor activities are limitless: surfing, biking, hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, farming, fishing, whale watching, and the list goes on.

In recent years, the town has also gained recognition as one of Mexico’s most exciting culinary destinations, with a wave of new restaurants capitalizing on the area’s Mediterranean climate, rich culinary traditions, and active community of ranchers and farmers. In addition to the restaurant at Paradero, other standouts include the beachside Barracuda Cantina, which was featured in Netflix’s Taco Chronicles, and Hierbabuena, a plant-based eatery helmed by celebrity chef Javier Plascencia.

Weddings and Honeymoons

When it comes to destination weddings, Paradero has it all—breathtaking landscapes, an expert team of planners and local vendors, an impressive array of venues, and a robust roster of activities to keep guests active and entertained. Paradero’s convenient location, just over an hour drive from the Los Cabos International Airport, celebrates the raw beauty of its surroundings: cacti-covered forests, coastal mountains, tidy rows of farming fields, and virgin Pacific Coast beaches.

Paradero offers four distinct on-site venues and can accommodate up to 150 wedding guests. Enjoy a sunset reception at the half-moon pool, say your vows against a backdrop of green mountains or in the serene open-air Ojo de Agua Spa, and throw a party to remember in the flower garden or botanical amphitheater. With plenty of open space and wide-open skies, wedding parties are free to move around as they please.

Buyouts are available for 80 guests total and require a minimum of 3 nights. Rates are not fixed and depend on seasonality and demand.

Sustainability

Paradero is an 80 percent landscape project, 20 percent development project. The on-site botanical garden features 80 endemic species including red sand verbena and Mojave yucca. More than 20,000 plants are oriented in a way that promotes maximum growth and vitality.

The property is located within the 75-year-old La Mesa farming community, an agricultural area comprising 160 acres of family-owned farms. Paradero is committed to working with the community to stimulate economic development, drive meaningful employment opportunities, and deliver extraordinary guest experiences. By immersing guests in nature, Paradero instills reverence towards the land. By employing local hands, there is generations worth of knowledge and storytelling.

Single-use plastics are prohibited at the property, and the restaurant sources ingredients locally, from farmers, fishermen, and other purveyors who embrace sustainable practices and techniques. The property hires locally and is proud to support craftspeople and makers across Mexico.

Experiences

To arrive in Todos Santos is to be thrust into the elements—the warm sun, the dusty trails, the sea breeze, and the starry skies. And the immersion only continues the moment guests arrive through the doors. Activities have been designed to re-center guests in nature, rekindling their childlike sense of adventure, while serving as a gateway to the Paradero lifestyle.

Among the experiences on offer include surfing at Cerritos or San Pedrito beach, guided hiking and mountain biking along the bluffs of the Pacific coast, hands-on farming tutorials, Baja taco tours, ocean safaris and fishing expeditions, cooking classes, cliffside champagne and burrito tastings, and yoga and fitness.

Local guides are passionate about delivering outdoor experiences that combine physical challenge and intellectual stimulation with a heavy dose of “wow” factor. Guides quickly assess skill and comfort levels, customizing each adventure to keep guests safe, smiling, and eager for more.  In order to have an authentic Todos Santos experience, guests are encouraged to try myriad experiences that are available in a small group setting (maximum of four- to six-guests) during morning and afternoon sessions. Activities are also available for private reservations, for an additional cost.

Wellness

Paradero Hotels believes in the importance of daily movement, which is promoted through the lineup of diverse Experiences, which range from hikes and fitness classes to surfing and mountain biking. Fresh, seasonal dishes at the restaurant help drive a 360-degree wellness experience.

Shaded by almost 100 locally grown palm trees and other endemic species, the Ojo de Agua Spa is a wellness oasis and a healing space inspired by secret watering holes that coexist between Sierra La Laguna and the Pacific. The focus is on ancient Mexican healing traditions like sound healing and Temazcal ceremonies.  Hot and cold plunge pools and a relaxation area round out the offerings.

Travel Regulations

Travelers to Mexico are not subject to entry restrictions nor are they obligated to quarantine or complete a COVID test prior to arrival. Upon return to the U.S., all air passengers coming to the U.S., including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated travelers, are required to have a negative COVID-19 antigen test result no more than a calendar day before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.

American Airlines, Delta, Eastern Airlines, Southwest, United Airlines, and WestJet are among the carriers that offer direct service from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston, Denver and New York City to San Jose del Cabo Airport (SJD). Recently, JetBlue, Spain’s Iberojet, and Canada’s Swoop and Flair Airlines also announced direct service to SJD. Paradero can coordinate private transfers to/from the hotel.

 

 

Wellness News from UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa

February 10th, 2022

From a new farm and organic youth farming program to foraging in the new beachside nature sanctuary to distilling essential oils in the Vida Lab

Ever since it opened in 2009, UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa, in Trancoso, Brazil, has been a favorite destination of travelers who seek community and a place to unwind and reduce their impact on the planet. (The property was founded by Wilbert Das, longtime creative director of fashion brand Diesel, who fell in love with the area.) The hotel is a leading example of sustainable travel, with its zero-waste philosophy, emphasis on reclaimed materials, preservation of local cultures and indigenous knowledge, and focus on vegetarian-based Bahian dishes sourced from the on-site organic garden and local farmers and fishermen. It’s no wonder the property has been a three-time finalist in Virtuoso’s Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award and was the first Brazilian hotel accepted as a signatory to the UN Global Contact.

What’s New

Located a short bike ride from the hotel, on the northern rim of the Rio Trancoso Valley, UXUA ROÇA is a new 50-acre farm planted with more than 100 different kinds of vegetables and herbs and flowers. The farm represents UXUA’s commitment to a circular food system, where fresh produce supplies the restaurant and spa, and food waste replenishes the soil. The agricultural plot allows the property to expand its organic youth farming program through the non-profit Association Despertar, which provides paid internships to students interested in environmental activism, as well as the Organic Festival Trancoso, co-founded by UXUA’s founders Wilbert Das and Bob Shevlin. Guests can reserve a private tour of the farm with medical director Dr. Jullian Hamamoto, during which they’ll pick fresh ingredients for use in a live cooking demonstration.

Also new is UXUA MARÉ, a nature sanctuary on Itapororoca beach, a 45-minute walk from the historic center of town. Three different biomes are represented across the sanctuary, which comprises 20 acres of mangrove forest, Atlantic rainforest, restinga (salt marsh), and aquatic reef. It’s here that Dr. Jullian forages ingredients like cherry guava, wild passion fruit, sea almonds, and mangaba for use back in the VIDA LAB. Guests are welcome to join the foraging experience and learn about the various uses and healing benefits of a variety of edible plants, flowers, roots, nuts, and berries.

Set inside a 70’s-era bungalow (a remnant of Trancoso’s hippie past) and situated amid UXUA’s gardens, VIDA LAB is UXUA’s nutritional research laboratory and medical kitchen. Featuring a living roof covered in edible plants, the space is equipped with scientific equipment for the study, documentation, and processing of natural plants sourced from UXUA’s organic garden, 150 meters away, and the various biomes that surround the property. Medical director Dr. Jullian Hamamoto and his team turn these ingredients into juices, topical treatments, and essential oils for use in the spa and restaurant. Guests can drop into the VIDA LAB to simply say hello, or to request custom therapies for relief from sunburn or chronic pain; aesthetic treatments like a cacao facial; or a pick-me-up in the form of an essential oil or energizing juice. Learn the science behind these therapies and ingredients by signing up for a custom mixing or cooking class.

More About UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa

A boutique hotel with a bohemian soul, UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa debuted in the historic fishing village of Trancoso, Brazil in 2009. The town, founded by the Jesuits in the 16th century, was rediscovered by artists and hippies in the 1970s. The area’s free spirit captivated UXUA’s founders who collaborated with local craftspeople to refurbish 13 traditional fisherman homes, reborn as the hotel’s casas. With a focus on sustainability, the property sources ingredients for the restaurant and spa from the on-site organic farm and a nearby nature sanctuary. Guests can learn about these healing ingredients through foraging excursions, live cooking demonstrations, and mixing classes. Other activities include mountain biking, kayaking, surfing, and horseback riding, as well as private capoeira lessons.

(Images Courtesy of UXUA)


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