Beyond the Ski Slopes, Zermatt is Sizzling as a Culinary Destination

December 7th, 2023

Tucked amid the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is known as an all-seasons adventure playground. But in recent years, the idyllic mountain town has emerged as one of Switzerland’s hottest dining destinations, with a trendy new champagne bar, a Michelin Green Star brasserie, Zermatt’s first seafood restaurant, and a new fusion spot that melds Peruvian and Asian flavors. Let’s dig in!

La Muña

Zermatt’s iconic Schweizerhof hotel offers an unexpected (and uber-luxe) spin on a traditional ski lodge. Yes, there are common spaces done up in cowbells and quilts, as well as a traditional Valais restaurant and an eatery serving a dozen styles of fondue and raclette. But the hotel is also home to one of the town’s most innovative kitchens. Named after the name of a medicinal plant in the Andes, La Muña is a creative fusion of Peruvian and Asian cuisine, with dishes ranging from homemade gyozas and vegan ceviche to yuzu salmon with lime and coriander. The cocktails are just as inventive — try the Red Caipirinha with pomegranate.

Le Restaurant

Mont Cervin Palace has been welcoming guests since 1852, but the hotel’s newest dining hotspot is new for 2023. Zermatt’s first seafood eatery, Le Restaurant serves French-Mediterranean specialties like bisque de homard and Navarin lobster in an elegant oak-clad space with glittering chandeliers. Don’t sleep on the 34-page wine list, which spotlights Riesling, Chasselas, and other regional grape varieties.

Ristorante Capri

Located on the fourth floor of Mont Cervin Palace with breathtaking views of snow-covered Zermatt, the one-Michelin-starred Capri restaurant is a sophisticated environment in which to try chef Vincenzo Tedeschi southern Italian cooking, with particular inspiration from the traditions of Campania and the flavors of the Mediterranean. Highlights include the crunchy lobster with green apple, basil and fennel, and the taglioni with red prawns, burrata, sea asparagus and lemon.

Brasserie Uno

This newcomer to the scene has been shaking things up with creative dishes that star local, seasonal produce (think: chanterelles, radishes, and red berries), some of which is sourced from the restaurant’s three gardens. The brasserie earned a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability: food waste is recycled, food is served on vintage bowls and plates, and menus are described by the waitstaff as opposed to being printed off. Opt for the six-course surprise tasting menu.

Elsie’s Wine and Champagne Bar

Opened in 2019 in the heart of Zermatt, this wood-paneled wine and champagne bar channels the spirit of the golden twenties. First-class wines and Champagnes are complemented with a small, refined selection of international and Swiss delicacies, like escargot with homemade herb butter, mouth-watering bison filet, and the best lobster spaghetti in the Alps.

Manud

The passion project of three female entrepreneurs (all of whom hail from the same family), Manud is a warm, welcoming addition to the Zermatt culinary scene. The café-style eatery serves breakfast and Asian-inflected lunch and dinner, with options like tom kha curry, Thai cabbage salads, and tofu banh mi. The homey space is also stocked with items to go, like natural wine, coffee from Zurich’s Blasercafé, and Swiss gin.

Aroleid Restaurant

This community-centric restaurant is located right next to the ski slopes, making for easy eats on powder days. But it’s not just about the food: this remodeled bi-level chalet also brings together a ground-floor ceramics studio, an on-site coffee roastery, and community programming ranging from yoga classes and live music to weekend BBQ feasts. And while you’ll be tempted to try their 14-day cured pastrami salad or their crispy confit duck leg, Aroleid also has a strong selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

BELMOND UNVEILS BLUEPRINT FOR A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION

December 6th, 2023

 

Leader in luxury travel forges ahead with long-term strategy encompassing selective expansion, exceptional experiences, and a laser-focus on its brand, environmental and social initiatives.

End of 2023 marked with the acquisition of Hacienda Katanchel, a 17th century estate in Yucatán

DECEMBER 6, 2023 – Belmond, a visionary leader in luxury travel, has outlined the blueprint for what it expects to be a “year of transformation” in 2024. Marking the close of 2023 with the acquisition of a 17th century estate in Mexico, the brand is announcing plans for 2024 that include the selective expansion and enhancement of its portfolio with heightened focus on train travel, the development of new exceptional experiences and a deeper focus on its environmental and

social responsibility.

Dan Ruff, CEO, Belmond, said“Long before experiential travel became a buzzword, Belmond, through our diverse portfolio of hotels, trains, boats and safaris, has offered one-of-a-kind experiences that are rooted in authenticity.

With our purpose to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, we will continue to push boundaries. 2024 will be a year of transformation as we further seek out remarkable properties, exceptional journeys and experiences, especially to cement our leading position in train travel. We will celebrate local culture, launch new experiences that connect our guests to the art of travel, curate contemporary culture and go even deeper with our environmental and social responsibility efforts.”

SELECTIVE EXPANSION AND ASSET REJUVENATION

MEXICO

Reinforcing its cluster in Mexico, Belmond has acquired Hacienda Katanchel, formerly a hacienda dating back to the 17th century situated near Merida, Yucátan. In the Mayan language, Katanchel translates to “‘where one asks for the arch of heaven,” a name that alludes to the site’s past as an astronomic observatory. With an expanse of 220 hectares, the extraordinary estate is home to a cenote (underground river), a sacred well, native flora and fauna, and the remains of an ancient Mayan pyramid, in addition to the historic hacienda. The rich and lush vegetation, the property’s history and the many vivid cultural expressions of the Yucátan peninsula all come together at Katanchel to create the setting for what will become Mexico’s one of the most beautiful hacienda hotels. Katanchel, A Belmond Hotel, is planned to open in 2027 with 35 independent suites upon completing a comprehensive restoration program.

The acquisition of Katanchel strengthens Belmond’s commitment to Mexico, joining three other distinct properties: on the Caribbean coast, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Rivera Maya, re-opened in August 2023 following a complete renovation; in the country’s heartland, Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, a former convent built in the 16th century in San Miguel de Allende; and on the Pacific Coast, Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Nayarit, that will open in 2025 after being conscientiously and sensitively built from the ground up.

ITALY

Belmond continues to strengthen its presence in Italy, where it operates ten iconic properties. In 2024, Belmond will expand to Sardinia with Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda. Sardinia’s original beach hotel will offer 100 guest rooms including suites and villas, two shimmering blue pools, an array of exceptional restaurants and new experiences that invite guests to experience villeggiatura set in the heart of Costa Smeralda’s most picturesque coastline.

The multi-year renovation of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, designed by Martin Brudnizki Studio, will complete its second phase and re-open for the 2024 season with new guestrooms, joining the swimming pool, Splendido Grill restaurant and the Baronessa Suite that have been revealed in 2023.

SLOW TRAVEL – NEW ROUTES, NEW SUITES, NEW EXPERIENCES

A trailblazer in slow travel experiences with a legacy of leadership spanning over four decades since the launch of Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in 1982, Belmond will propel its pioneering approach as it introduces new routes, new suites and new experiences across its six trains and seven barges in response to growing demands for more Belmond slow travel journeys around the world.

Southeast Asia’s legend of the rails Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, announces the appointment of Chef André Chiang as its new chef. Having worked in some of the most decorated restaurants in the world, including his two-Michelin-starred eponymous Restaurant André in Singapore, Chef André will elevate and devise every aspect of the dining experience including the ambience and atmosphere of the two on board restaurants, Adisorn and Malaya. Eastern & Oriental Express is set to return in February 2024 with two seasonal routes out of Singapore that take in the beautiful landscapes of Malaysia.

For the first time in its history, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe will embark on a new journey connecting two iconic destinations: Paris and Portofino; the sojourn will continue at Splendido where the train’s Chef, Jean Imbert, will host a Gala Dinner. Due to popular demand, the legendary train will also add a second Paris to Istanbul return journey, in addition to its regular August itinerary. Its first alpine journey will head to the French Alps on December 21, 2023, and it will be repeated in December 2024. Following the huge success of the introduction of Grand Suites and Suites onboard the train, eight new Suites will join the rake in 2024, bringing a total of 16 Suites and 6 Grand Suites to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

The Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland, will also see the launch of two new Grand Suites designed by Paris-based interior designer Tristan Auer in May 2024. The brand-new Grand Suite experience on board Royal Scotsman will include a pampering spa treatment per person in the lavish Dior Spa, which was unveiled in April 2023.

The iconic British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England will elevate its dining offering with the launch of The Carriage Club Dinners in May 2024, a series of immersive evening journeys combining decadent dining, fine wines and entertainment.

In Peru, the two Belmond trains, namely Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer, the country’s first and only luxury sleeper train, along with Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel in Cusco welcomed Peruvian-born Jorge Muñoz as Executive Chef. In 2024, Jorge will unveil new culinary creations that tell the story of an exploratory journey through the coast, highlands and jungle of Peru. Hiram Bingham, the iconic train which has been taking guests on exquisite journeys from the Sacred Valley to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The official launch of Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne, in April 2024 will welcome guests to the latest addition to its fleet of river boats gliding across the scenic canals of France. Designed by French architects Humbert & Poyet, this intimate river boat features three cabins, an indoor salon with a bespoke champagne bar, and an extensive outdoor deck with open-air kitchen and dining area. Coquelicot will partner with Maison Ruinart to offer exclusive experiences. These include a four-hand private lunch by Maison Ruinart’s Chef In Residence, Valérie Radou, and Coquelicot’s Head Chef as well as a private guided tour of the historic Taissy vineyard.

CURATOR AND PUBLISHER OF CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

Belmond has spent the last few years building stronger property brands across its portfolio. With each property’s legacy deeply rooted in the destination, the property-first strategy respects their distinctive identity, allowing them to honor their past and celebrate their contemporary culture. 2024 will see more milestones being celebrated as Cape Town’s iconic pink hotel Mount Nelson commemorating its 125th anniversary as well as the 40th anniversary Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons,  A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire. Belmond will also continue its global brand campaign “Belmond Legends” showcasing fourteen of its iconic properties through a contemporary photography series as seen by acclaimed artists.

In parallel, Belmond is committed to deepen its commitment to the culture and arts communities around the world, whilst enriching guest experiences. The brand will launch a third edition of MITICO, a contemporary art installation series in partnership with Galleria Continua. The new edition of MITICO will see large-scale in-situ works by globally renowned French

conceptual artist Daniel Buren on the captivating grounds of six Belmond hotels; Copacabana Palace, Mount Nelson, Hotel Cipriani, La Residencia, Villa San Michele and Castello di Casole.

CRAFTING SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL, SHAPING TOMORROW’S HERITAGE

With environmental and social sustainability serving as a key foundation in Belmond’s strategic plan, Belmond will accelerate its rigorous efforts as it sets ambitious goals to reduce its impact and reliance on natural resources while driving positive change. The brand will launch a pilot program at ten properties which will create tailored and actionable roadmaps for them to meet the rigorous LVMH Life 360’s sustainability targets. In parallel, it will implement three flagship projects that focus on increasing the use of renewable energy, drastically reducing freshwater withdrawal and creating a Gastronomy Academy to guide its work in reducing impact in food and beverage.

In the meantime, through a global partnership with EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism, all eligible Belmond properties are set to receive EarthCheck Silver certification by the first half of 2024. This robust benchmarking and auditing process will establish baselines that will be used to measure and improve our performance across energy, water and waste.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Image can be downloaded here

Click here to find out more about Belmond’s 2024 Hot News

For more information, please contact:

Alice Marshall Public Relations

belmond@alicemarshall.com

ABOUT BELMOND

Belmond was born from a passion for connecting discerning travellers with the world’s most remarkable properties, locations and journeys. From hotels and trains to river cruises and safaris, Belmond curates incomparable experiences and crafts unforgettable stories. With a legacy spanning over 45 years, since the acquisition of Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has grown into a global collection of 47 properties spread across 28 countries and territories. Exceptional destinations connected by legendary journeys are the very soul of Belmond, where the path that brings you to a place is as important as the destination itself. A pioneer of slow travel, Belmond has been operating the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express since 1982. The group later expanded to include pristine beach resorts, such as Maroma on the Riviera Maya, historic hideaways such as Villa San Michele in the Florentine foothills, urbane icons, such as Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, and gateways to UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Hotel das Cataratas in Brazil’s Iguassu National Park. As proud custodians of storied properties, Belmond is committed to building on the past to create a new legacy: the heritage of the future. Working with communities and local talents, together with the world’s most respected chefs, designers and artists, Belmond continues its purpose of perpetuating the legendary art of travel. Since 2019, Belmond has been part of the world’s leading luxury group, LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton).

Belmond.com

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Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin to Unveil a Complete Renovation for 2024 Season

December 4th, 2023

Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin to Unveil a Complete Renovation for 2024 Season

Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin, overlooking the famous harbor, will unveil a six-month multi-million-dollar renovation in April 2024. Drawing on Nantucket’s rich seafaring past and Quaker influence, Nantucket-based designer Audrey Sterk will infuse new life into the 29 Cottages, which occupy an enviable perch along the slips of the award-winning Nantucket Boat Basin.

Located 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, the island of Nantucket continues to retain the historic charm lingering from its days as the world’s whaling capital in the 19th century. The Boat Basin’s storied history spans over 300 years beginning in the late-1720s when the island was the busiest whaling port in the world and its wharves were flourishing with boat-building ships, sail lofts and candle factories. During that time, 15-20 whale ships would be anchored in the harbor and stacks of oil casks lined each wharf. In 1830, the California Gold Rush played a role in the whaling industry’s collapse on the East Coast, but by 1920, Nantucket entered a new era of tourism with travelers arriving by steamboat from posts across the Northeast. By the mid 1960s, the waterfront, which became known as the Nantucket Boat Basin, developed into a fisherman’s community and artist enclave with more than a dozen galleries lining the wharves. The Cottages, as we know it today, officially arrived on the scene in 2002 when the accommodations became part of White Elephant Resorts.

Checking into The Cottages is the closest thing to staying on the water, without being on a boat, nautical soundtrack included. The setting is reminiscent of a seaside village. The individually styled accommodations with names like Sea Syren, Essex and Orion, are inspired by the names of the great  whaling ships of the 1700s. A collection of 12 accommodations, dubbed ‘Woof Cottages’ will continue to be available for those traveling with pets. Ranging from studio cottages to split-level three-bedroom lofts, every inch of the historic accommodations, particularly the bedrooms, living spaces and bathrooms, will be revamped without altering their original architecture. Original details including vaulted ceiling beams and individual floor plans will remain. All cottages offer full kitchens and most feature private outdoor decks.  The accommodations will feature a color palette of inviting tones of deep ocean blue, misty gray and stark white.  Caged lighting, nautical charts of Nantucket, brass barometer instruments, rope and jute detailing in the furnishings and carpet, and woven fixtures will inject a dose of contemporary maritime charm while the humble, functional materials hark back to the island’s whaling roots.

An extensive collection of artwork, including 3-D pieces of framed mariners knots, along with other works hand-selected by the hotel’s owners will also be displayed throughout the accommodations. A focal point of the cottages will be a mural that’s handpainted by Sterk and digitally modified to fit in each space. The floor-to-ceiling seascape—which took nearly eight months to create—will stretch across an entire wall and depict a “First Nantucket Settlers” scene, with large-masted sailboats, lighthouses, a distant hamlet, and coastal vegetation brimming with native plants and animals. The mural tradition is deeply woven into the fabric of the island: in the 1800s, owners of whaling ships commissioned murals for their homes.

Amenities will include complimentary access to Priority Bicycles and kids’ fishing rods, reels and nets. Guests are also steps from town and can take advantage of complimentary shuttles to the beach. Pets receive the VIP treatment with beds, a welcome basket of treats and toys, and personalized pet tags. For recommendations on the island’s most pet-friendly activities—including the best places to run free and play fetch, guests can email local insider Bailey, a black lab/Brittany Spaniel mix at petconcierge@thecottagesnantucket.com

To celebrate the renovation, The Cottages is offering a special opening rate starting from $310 per night. High season rates start at $1,250 per night. Starting rates are for one-bedroom Cottages. For more information, visit: https://www.thecottagesnantucket.com/

About White Elephant Resorts

White Elephant Resorts is a collection of premier hotels and resorts on Nantucket, MA and in Palm Beach, FL that specialize in bringing their award-winning combination of service, design, and amenities to today’s discerning traveler. Properties include The Wauwinet, with access to both bay and ocean beaches and home to award-winning TOPPER’S restaurant; White Elephant, the iconic hotel located right on Nantucket Harbor with the Brant Point Grill; Jared Coffin House, a historic hotel in Nantucket Town and its restaurant, Tap Room; The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin, private waterfront cottages; and Nantucket Boat Basin, a 240-slip full-service award-winning marina. White Elephant Palm Beach debuted in November 2020 in Palm Beach, FL with Nantucket-favorite LoLa 41 restaurant.  In 2023, The Wauwinet, White Elephant Nantucket, and White Elephant Palm Beach were ranked in Travel + Leisure’s T+L 500 awards, and both White Elephant Nantucket and The Wauwinet were recipients of Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. TOPPER’s is AAA’s only “Five Diamond” restaurant on Nantucket and has been a recipient of Wine Spectator’s “Grand Award” for 27 consecutive years.

 

 

 

PONANT Launches Festive New Voyages in the Arctic Circle for the Winter 2024-25 Season

November 3rd, 2023

Winter is coming! In honor of the festive season, PONANT has designed seven unforgettable voyages in the snowglobe-like worlds of Lapland, the Gulf of Bothnia, and the Baltic Sea to launch during the Winter 2024-25 season. Activities will immerse guests in the frozen beauty of these northern landscapes while setting the festive mood: reindeer-pulled sleigh rides, ice-fishing, Scandinavian Christmas markets, and glimpses of the Northern Lights are among the highlights of these seasonal itineraries.

From the Northern Lights to the Polar Light

This all-new 12-day PONANT journey navigates along the jagged coastlines of Norway to the ice-covered reliefs of Spitsbergen in search of the exhilarating spectacle of the Northern Lights. In Lapland, guests will have the opportunity to meet people from the Sami nation, one of the last European Indigenous people. As travelers take photos of the dancing night skies, VIP guest Ian Dawson, a British Photo Ambassador, will share tips and tricks for getting the perfect shot.

One departure in 2024; from October 18-29. More on the voyage HERE.

Polar Lights: From North Cape to the Lofoten Islands

Dramatic fjords, dolomite cliffs, traditional fishing villages, boreal forests, snow-covered peaks, viewings of reindeer and seabirds — this and more is a part of the experience during this 10-day Polar Nights voyage starting in Lakselv and journeying all the way up to the North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe. VIP guest Ian Dawson, a British Photo Ambassador, will share his tips for getting the perfect shot of the frozen scenery and the Northern Lights. One departure in 2024; from October 29 to November 7. More on the voyage HERE.

Scandinavian Wonderland & Christmas Markets

This brand-new 10-day itinerary whisks guests to the most enchanting cities along the Baltic Sea, including Stockholm, Gotland, Gdansk, and Helsinki. It’s a magical time to visit, with snow-dusted scenery and the smells of mulled wine, cinnamon, and gingerbread drifting through Christmas markets. Other activities include marveling at gothic and baroque architecture, attending a private concert at the Polish Baltic F. Chopin Philharmonic, and exploring the old town of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two departures in 2024; from December 2-11 and December 11-20. More on the voyage HERE.

Christmas Magic with Renaud Capuçon

On this nine-day trip itinerary, musician Renaud Capuçon and radio presenter Alain Duault will team up with Radio Classique to provide the soundtrack for a one-of-a-kind journey through

Scandinavian cities, little-known archipelagos, snow-capped peaks, and boreal forests in Finland, Stockholm, and the north of the Gulf of Bothnia. Activities might include dog sledding, ice fishing, Christmas markets, and a visit to the Santa Claus Village of Rovaniemi. One departure in 2024; from December 20-28. More on the voyage HERE.

Musical New Year in the Gulf of Bothnia

Also in partnership with Radio Classique, this nine-day New Year expedition will sail around the Gulf of Bothnia and the Scandinavian region, with visits to the fairytale towns of Rauma, the church-town of Gammelstad, and the neoclassical city of Oulu. A highlight is embarking to  the High Coast archipelago—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and an unforgettable journey among the skerries of the Stockholm archipelago, with an overnight stay opposite the bright lights of the old town. One departure in 2024; from December 28 to January 5, 2025. More on the voyage HERE.

 

ABOUT PONANT

PONANT’s “Explore to Inspire” mission is centered around exploration to better understand, learn, share and protect. For more than 35 years, PONANT has been committed to more responsible tourism and voyages of exploration which have meaning. The French-flagged fleet comprises 13 small capacity ships equipped with state of the art environmentally friendly equipment. With PONANT, exploration is refined, authentic and a source of inspiration. The company sails to the Arctic and the Antarctic as well as in the Atlantic and North Europe, Mediterranean, Middle East, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, Asia, Oceania and South Pacific, the Caribbean, North, Central and South America. For more information, visit  https://us.ponant.com or call 1-844-747-2873 or contact your travel advisor.

Black Friday + Cyber Monday Travel Offers

October 31st, 2023

From Black Friday (November 24) to Cyber Monday (November 27), here are eight unmissable travel deals, ranging from international adventures to domestic getaways.

INTERNATIONAL

40% Off | andBeyond | Africa + South America

Save up to 40% on a 2024 andBeyond booking by purchasing one of a limited number of Cyber Monday $4,000 travel vouchers for $3,000. These $4,000 vouchers can be redeemed off any new andBeyond lodge booking providing an additional $1000 of savings to any other offers applied in the booking.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday). Payment will be processed by November 30.
  • Voucher Terms and Conditions:
  • The vouchers are redeemable for travel for up to three years.
  • Only applicable to new andBeyond lodge accommodation bookings in Africa and South America where a minimum of four nights at any combination of andBeyond lodge or camp are booked.
  • The voucher is a payment method that can be used on a booking containing any of andBeyond’s other offers.
  • There are a limited number of 50 vouchers available for sale. A maximum of one Cyber Monday voucher redeemed per booking, and sales are limited to one voucher per person.

 

30% Off | Almanac Hotels | Barcelona, Prague, Vienna

Almanac Hotels, the family-owned boutique hospitality brand including Almanac Barcelona and newly unveiled Almanac Palais Vienna and Almanac X Alcron Prague, are offering 30% off the best available room rate, including complimentary breakfast, WiFi, and access to spa and gym facilities.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – 27, 2023
  • Travel Dates: November 28, 2023 – March 15, 2024. Blackout dates apply. Two-night stay minimum in Barcelona and Prague.
  • Booking links, per property:
  • Almanac Barcelona: here
  • Almanac Palais Vienna: here
  • Almanac X Alcron Prague: here

 

Up to 50% Off | Dromoland Castle | Ireland

Dromoland Castle, a stunning 16th-century fortress nestled in the picturesque County Clare, Ireland, boasts a rich history is offering up a great deal. Enjoy a discounted two-night accommodation in the Queen Anne Classic or Deluxe Bedroom, full English breakfast daily, and 10% discount on a 60-minute treatment at the brand-new Barbara Sturm Castle Spa.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday).
  • Travel Dates: January 3 – March 31, 2024. Two nights stay minimum.
  • Starting Price:
  • Queen Anne Room: €680 total for two nights (inclusive of offer)
  • Deluxe Bedroom: €810 total for two nights (inclusive of offer)

 

30% Off | Tenuta di Murlo | Umbria, Italy

Tenuta di Murlo, the enormous 18,000-acre estate has been in the Carabba Tettamanti family since the 16th century and the current generation have spent a decade restoring, renovating, and designing the medieval farmhouses dotting the estate. The property is offering a 30% discount on a two-night stay minimum including daily breakfast and one dinner at Il Caldero. The offer applies to any of the eight villas which can accommodate anywhere from two to 12 guests.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday)
  • Travel Dates: Can be applied through April 30, 2024.
  • Starting price: €950

 

30% Off | Gili Lankanfushi | Maldives

Gili Lankanfushi the luxurious, eco-friendly resort situated in the Maldives, renowned for its overwater villas, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters is offering a 30% discount on the Best Flexible Rate, including complimentary half-board inclusions and a 60-minute spa treatment per person per villa once per stay.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – 27, 2023
  • Travel Dates: December 1, 2023 – December 20, 2024.
  • Blackout dates: December 29, 2023 – January 7, 2024 and March 25 – April 3, 2024.
  • Booking link here OR contact the reservation team via email (reservations@gili-lankanfushi.com), WhatsApp +960 793 77 99 or phone call +960 664 0304. Use promo code CAMP-GILIBLACKFRIDAY2023.

 

25% Off | GoldenEye | Oracabessa, Jamaica

GoldenEye, the former home of Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, is offering up to 25% off when booking a minimum two-night stay (up to a maximum 14-day stay). Rates are not valid for 3 rooms or more per guest.

  • Booking Dates: November 23 – 28, 2023
  • Travel Dates: January 4 – March 31, 2024
  • Starting Rates: $650, per night (without the discount) or $489 with the 25% offer. This is available for all room categories, excluding Fleming Villa.

 

DOMESTIC

25% Off | White Elephant Resorts | Nantucket, Massachusetts + Palm Beach, Florida

The White Elephant Resorts portfolio, including Jared Coffin House, The Cottages, The Wauwinet, and White Elephant in Nantucket, and White Elephant Palm Beach in Florida, will offer a fourth night free when booking a minimum three-night stay. The offer will be available for both the Nantucket and Palm Beach properties with an extended booking period from Black Friday through December 1. When booking, use the code: Cyber24.

  • Booking Dates: November 24 – December 1, 2023
  • Travel Dates for Nantucket: April 11 – October 26, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Travel Dates for Palm Beach: January 1 – October 31, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Starting Prices and Booking Links:
  • White Elephant Nantucket: $425. Booking link here.
  • Jared Coffin House: $220. Booking link here.
  • The Wauwinet: $395. Booking link here.
  • The Cottages at the Boat Basin: $180. Bookling link here.
  • White Elephant Palm Beach: $495. Booking link here.

 

40% Off I Parker Palm Springs I Palm Springs, California

Parker Palm Springs, a desert oasis nestled in the heart of Palm Springs known for its chic retro aesthetic, is offering 40% off the best available rate on any villa reservation as well as a $200 credit per villa per booking that can be claimed at the Palm Springs Yacht Club spa or for at Mr. Parker restaurant. Minimum three-night stay required.

  • Booking Dates: Only November 27 (Cyber Monday)
  • Travel Dates: Through December 31, 2024; blackout dates may apply
  • Starting price: $399 per night

 

30% Off I The Roundtree I Amagansett, New York

A hidden gem of low-key luxury in the Hamptons, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City, The Roundtree Amagansett is offering guests a 30% discount off of regular room rates.

Journey to Equilibrium – Nayara Resorts Launches Sukha Wellness Retreats

October 23rd, 2023

Nayara Resorts, nestled in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest, just launched two new holistic wellness retreats scheduled for August 12-18 and October 9-15. The six-night retreats offer an opportunity to reset and recharge surrounded by the serene rainforest surroundings.

Guests will immerse themselves in a range of activities, including yoga, sound healing, and sunset meditation, all conducted in outdoor pavilions cantilevered over the rainforest. In addition to the activities, guests have spa treatments and access to the wellness amenities, including the thermal mineral hot springs.

The wellness retreat industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, as individuals seek respite from the daily grind. Nayara’s retreats align perfectly with this trend, grounded in the scientifically-proven benefits of nature.

“Our retreats draw inspiration from the Sanskrit term ‘sukha,’ representing ‘equilibrium.’ They are thoughtfully curated to help guests reconnect with nature and rediscover their inner essence,” explains Jonathan Rojas, Marketing Manager. “Each retreat coincides with the New Moon, symbolizing new beginnings. Additionally, our October retreat offers a rare chance to witness the spectacular annular solar eclipse, known as the ‘ring of fire.’”

“Nayara’s retreats go beyond mere activities; they focus on nourishment too,” adds Constanza Navarro, Sales & Marketing Director. “Our award-winning culinary team has thoughtfully crafted a menu featuring locally sourced, organic ingredients, guaranteeing a healthy and authentic dining experience.”

Nayara’s wellness retreats promise a transformative journey towards enhanced health and balance. As spots are limited and demand is expected to be high, interested individuals are urged to secure their reservations promptly

Guests can book HERE

News from the Vines: Fall 2023

September 28th, 2023

If you’ve been to Napa Valley lately, you’ll know that a lot has changed in and around the region. We’re talking new restaurants, buzzy bars – including a champagne and caviar lounge from Thomas Keller and even a swanky tequila lounge – along with just-opened tasting rooms, some of which are set inside landmark buildings that are being opened to the public for the first time in history. Plus, this year, wine grapes are thriving after record winter rainfall. This past summer’s cooler days means a later than usual harvest and more time to celebrate the season.

Here’s a preview of all that’s new and notable in Napa Valley:

The Restaurant Scene Heats Up

There’s nothing more classic than a glass of red wine paire
d with Italian food, especially in Napa Valley. In recent months, a crop of new Italian restaurants have popped up offering home-style Italian cooking using Napa Valley-grown ingredients.

One of the most buzz-worthy openings is Ciccio, first opened in 2012 by winemaker Frank Altamura and shuttered after the pandemic, has made a comeback under new management overseen by Christopher Kostow, Michelin-starred chef from the former Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak, and Loveski Deli. Expect a wine list that’s 80 percent Italian along with crowd-pleasing dishes like bucatini cacio e pepe and buffalo milk ice cream with strawberries and olive oil. For pizza, the region is flush with options now, including Rutherford Family Pizza (specializing in New York and Neapolitan-style pizza),  Mangia Mi (by Food Network winning chef Rebecca White) and Scala Osteria (from the owners of Napa Valley’s famed Don Giovanni).

The spirit of Napa Valley is all about community, and at the female-run NO|MA House Café & Collective in Yountville, locals and travelers can come together in a welcoming space with a retail shop that focuses on local artisanal goods, plus seasonal bites like summer peach, prosciutto, and burrata tartines. Another community-centered opening is Calistoga Depot, a gourmet spot serving artisan sandwiches and locally roasted coffees, which diners may enjoy on the sunny adjacent patio. Look out for a new on-site sparkling wine and caviar salon, plus a Mexican cuisine kitchen, Casa Obsidiana, both set to open inside of remodeled train cars that date to the 1800s.

When it comes to hotel dining, the scene is red-hot. Homegrown chef Rogelio Garcia, recently opened Auro at Four Seasons Resort & Residents. The  fine-dining restaurant, which recently earned a Michelin star, offers a prix-fixe tasting menu with a 250-label list emphasizing local wines. While in the northern part of Napa Valley, don’t miss Forum, the new concept at Meadowood, spotlighting local produce and craft cocktails.

A Topped-Up Tasting Experience

In Napa Valley, there’s a tasting room for everyone. Pet-lovers can bring their pooch to the newly opened Benevolent Neglect Wines in downtown Napa, where minimal-intervention wines (many made from obscure grape varieties) are paired with vinyl records and by-the-glass service. And the Scottsdale-born Wine Girl bar just opened a location in downtown Napa that’s perfectly suited for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, and girls’ getaways. Local insiders gather at Compline Wine Shop, where an 800-bottle selection featuring international and California labels and a 100-vinyl record collection will keep the good times going all night long.

Also in downtown Napa is the new outpost from Robert Mondavi Winery, a long-term temporary tasting room called Arch & Tower, set inside a two-story industrial building that previously functioned as a dance hall in the 1900s. And the Matthew Bruno Rutherford Estate opened this past summer inside an 1894 Victorian home filled with art. (Look out for a bronze table by Brutalist designer and sculptor Chuck Moffit.) The space is set amid 125-year-old olive trees and a bocce court. It’s the first time in history that the property has been open to the public.

Stylish Sips

This past summer, the Culinary Institute of America at COPIA opened The Haven, a pre-Prohibition-inspired lounge offering a rotating selection of tapped cocktails, alcohol-free tipples, and international wines and beers — plus open-air views of CIA’s gardens. Also in downtown Napa: The Fink, a new cocktail bar at the Historic Napa Mill. Opened by Judd Finkelstein from Judd’s Hill Winery, the space resembles a tiki-inspired boathouse, a homage to the late 1800s when the Mill was the city’s industrial center and a large portion of the business in the region was done by boat.

Tequila-lovers have plenty of reason to celebrate now that the owners of Napa Valley’s most popular wine bars, Cadet, have opened Chispa with a selection of roughly 80 tequilas and 40 mezcals, plus a full kitchen. Chispa will satisfy discerning tequila connoisseurs plus any hankerings for raw oysters and seafood. Meanwhile, in Yountville, Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge is the newest opening from chef Thomas Killer, with weekly live jazz music coupled with bubbles and caviar pairings, this sophisticated space, with interiors courtesy of Ken Fulk, is certainly worthy of a Champagne toast.

Assouline and Island Outpost to Launch ‘JAMAICA VIBES’ Book in August 2023

July 25th, 2023

With its rich culture and sublime scenery, Jamaica has inspired countless artists and creatives. The nation’s pride is reflected in the music, dance, cuisine and literature that originated in Jamaica, but has since influenced people across the globe. The legacy of Bob Marley is intricately linked with the image of Jamaica; and for novelist Ian Fleming, Jamaica was his creative incubator. Now, the most stylish Caribbean nation has inspired Assouline’s newest title, Jamaica Vibes, written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith and Novia McDonald Whyte, with a foreword by music industry legend and Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell. The book, launching in August 2023, is part of Assouline’s iconic Travel Series and retails for $105.

Born to a family that made its fortune in Jamaica growing sugar cane and making rum, Blackwell grew up on the island. By the 1960s, he entered the music business and launched the careers of Bob Marley and U2. He is credited for popularizing reggae throughout the world and has since been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But Blackwell is just as well-known for his passion for Jamaica and its people, and his collection of celebrity-favorite boutique hotels as part of the Island Outpost portfolio. These include the legendary GoldenEye, previously owned by Bond creator Ian Fleming, who penned his best-selling spy series from the property’s famed waterfront villa. Blackwell also owns the Strawberry Hill mountain estate (where he grew up having Sunday tea), and the honeymoon-favorite The Caves.

Blackwell contributed a forward to Jamaica Vibes, presenting an intimate, insider portrait of this vibrant island nation and its mesmerizing power. The book was written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith, former editor and fashion director at various editions of Vogue; and Novia McDonald-Whyte, senior associate lifestyle editor and social content at the Jamaica Observer Media group.

Throughout the book are over 200 glossy photos taken by photographers including Slim Aarons and Adrian Boot and feature images of the nation’s colorful culture. Over the decades, Jamaica has hosted a never-ending parade of glamorous guests, including the likes of Harry Belafonte and Kate Moss, who have also shared quotes for the book.

For more information, visit Assouline.com.

Ian Fleming’s GoldenEye Announces New Package to Celebrate 70 Years of James Bond

July 25th, 2023

2023 marks the 70th anniversary of Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale, the first novel in the legendary James Bond series. In celebration, GoldenEye in Jamaica is offering a dedicated package that will trace both Fleming’s and Bond’s footsteps with ‘The Ultimate Ian Fleming Experience.’

Ian Fleming was a former British intelligence officer and discovered Jamaica during a WWII mission in 1942. Four years later, he purchased 15 acres of under-developed tropical land and named it GoldenEye to pay homage to his naval operation that first brought him to the island. He resided there every winter for more than two decades and penned all 14 James Bond books onsite (sometimes typing more than 2,000 words a day). 70 years later, the James Bond name is recognizable across every corner of the globe.

Highlights of the package include a guided snorkeling tour through Fleming’s beloved reefs; and a tour of his Villa (based on availability) where his writing desk and typewriter remains. Outside, guests can stroll through the sunken garden where Fleming entertained the likes of British Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden, playwright Noel Coward, and actress Katharine Hepburn.

The four-night package includes:

  • Accommodations in a one-bedroom Lagoon Cottage
  • Guided snorkeling excursion
  • Tour of the Fleming Villa (pending availability)
  • A bottle of Bollinger champagne (featured in many of the Bond films and first mentioned in Fleming’s 1956 novel, Diamonds Are Forever)
  • 007 Collector’s Edition of Blackwell Rum – created in celebration of over 60 years of the James Bond film franchise (Did you know? GoldenEye  is owned by music legend Chris Blackwell. He served as a location scout in Jamaica for the 1962 Bond film Dr. No)

Package rates start at $3,700 for four nights in a one-bedroom Lagoon Cottage; available for stays now through October 31, 2023.

Call 800.688.7678, email reservations@islandoutpost.com, or visit https://www.goldeneye.com.

Cheating Summer Reading

July 25th, 2023

Everyone dreams of plowing through a towering stack of best sellers in the summer – visions of quiet beach days and lounging poolside. Often, life gets in the way of these serene, literary daydreams and the stack of books gets smaller and dustier. For a way to cheat a bit for summer reading, here are some of our favorite new coffee table books to transport readers (viewers, really) off to another locale.

UXUA Utopia: A Very Gifted Guest House

The boutique property on the Bahian coast of Brazil tends to attract a cool crowd (Anderson Cooper loved it so much that he had them build him a house, it’s where Solange Knowles spent her honeymoon, models like Candice Swanepoel have been spotted there…), so it’s no surprise that leading trend forecaster Li Edelkoort joined forces to release this new coffee table book this summer. The 288-page book combines elements of design, art, and travel, exploring owner Wilbert Das’ achievements in establishing values for a new world through a local project meant to set a global example. Past guests can reminisce about their holidays while flipping through the beautiful pages, and those yet to visit can daydream and imagine themselves in the tropical paradise of Trancoso, Brazil.

Assouline and Island Outpost launch Jamaica Vibes – August 2023

With its rich culture and sublime scenery, Jamaica has inspired countless artists and creatives. The nation’s pride is reflected in the music, dance, cuisine and literature that originated in Jamaica, but has since influenced people across the globe. The legacy of Bob Marley is intricately linked with the image of Jamaica; and for novelist Ian Fleming, Jamaica was his creative incubator. Now, the most stylish Caribbean nation has inspired Assouline’s newest title, Jamaica Vibes, written by Lisa Lovatt-Smith and Novia McDonald Whyte, with a foreword by music industry legend and Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell. The book, launching in August 2023, is part of Assouline’s iconic Travel Series and retails for $105.

Born to a family that made its fortune in Jamaica growing sugar cane and making rum, Blackwell grew up on the island. By the 1960s, he entered the music business and launched the careers of Bob Marley and U2. He is credited for popularizing reggae throughout the world and has since been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But Blackwell is just as well-known for his passion for Jamaica and its people, and his collection of celebrity-favorite boutique hotels as part of the Island Outpost portfolio (GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill, and The Caves). Blackwell contributed a forward to Jamaica Vibes, presenting an intimate, insider portrait of this vibrant island nation and its mesmerizing power.

Italian Summer Vacation brought to you by Belmond

Belmond, owned by LVMH, has collaborated with the former editor-at-large of Vogue Italia, Cesare Cunaccia, to publish Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation ($95). As the definition of “authentic” travel continues to evolve, the Assouline coffee table book is a vibrant reminder that a hotel is not just a hardware, but in fact, it is a part of cultural immersion and prolonged discovery – whether at the newly renovated Splendido in Portofino, the countryside estate Castello di Casole in Tuscany, or perched atop the mountains of Ravello at Caruso.

Available online at assouline.com.

 

 

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