May 2nd, 2023
LONDON
The Beaumont
The Beaumont’s new Terrace offers alfresco drinking and dining for the first time at the property, in an enclosed outdoor terrace overlooking Brown Hart Gardens. With 1920s-style rattan armchairs and cafe tables enfolded by lush greenery, The Terrace serves drinks alongside salads, sandwiches and light bites from 8am to 8pm, and can be covered and heated in colder weather.
The Dalloway Terrace, The Bloomsbury
Dalloway Terrace, named for Mrs. Dalloway in the Virginia Woolf novel, is an elegant, poetic and quintessentially English space. Fully heated, this year-round destination restaurant and bar offers the peace and charm of a secluded secret garden in the winter, and a light, elegant and beautiful al fresco space in the spring and summer months. Light breakfasts, brunch, afternoon tea and all-day favorites make up the Dalloway Terrace menu, with a range of cocktails and wines also available.
WASHINGTON DC
The Pembroke, The Dupont Circle
The airy Pembroke restaurant situated in the bustling heart of Dupont Circle features American and international classics with the option of al fresco dining. The Pembroke’s beautiful design by Martin Brudnizki features plush velvet coral-toned banquettes around glossy marble tables, cream-paneled walls with playful artwork, and boasts panoramic views of the neighborhood, while its seasonal terrace offers al fresco dining from spring to fall.
ZURICH
La Muña, La Réserve Eden au Lac
La Muña is the crown jewel of La Réserve Eden au Lac, serving Japanese Peruvian specialties alongside an extensive wine and sake list. Accessible via the glass elevator in the hotel lobby, the rooftop overlooks the city of Zurich and offers unique 360-degree views of the lake. One of the two outdoor terraces can be entirely privatized. Whether out in the sun or under the large umbrellas, guests can enjoy a relaxed yet festive atmosphere while looking out over Lake Zurich with the Alps in the distance.
BARCELONA
Azimuth, Almanac Barcelona
At the Azimuth rooftop bar at Almanac Barcelona, mingle with locals while taking in views of La Sagrada Familia and Mount Tibidabo. The panoramic rooftop terrace also features a guest-only pool for cooling off in the summer. On Fridays and Saturday nights, enjoy live music or a DJ for the perfect chill summer vibe.
April 5th, 2023
Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train Unveils New Dior Spa and Themed Journeys for 2023 Season
Marking the start of its 2023 season, Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland, the country’s only luxury sleeper train, announces a long-term partnership with Dior Beauty to create the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman and launches two new expert-led adventure and culinary themed journeys through the Highlands.
Dior Spa Royal Scotsman
A cocoon of serenity on the rails, the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman blends two iconic Houses for an incomparable well-being escape inspired by Scotland’s ephemeral beauty. An homage to Christian Dior’s love for Scotland – where he hosted his first fashion show in 1955 – the new Dior Spa Royal Scotsman is housed in one of the train’s plush carriages with two lacquered treatment rooms, restyled with Dior’s iconic burgundy toile de Jouy motif. The new bespoke menu features three tailor-made treatments devised by the French Maison’s wellness experts to cater to the specific needs of train travel and can be enjoyed before or after an outdoor excursion. The D-Travel body massage (30 minutes / one hour) is a deep, slow massage that eliminates toxins, releases tensions, and relieves pain. Inspired by the Scottish seasons, the D-Elements full body treatment (one hour) begins with the application of semi-precious hot stones on the back to create a sense of warmth, followed by massage strokes that simulate a cooling breeze. Bain Dior body mist and hot oshibori, recreating the country’s drifting mists, end the treatment on a calming note. For the face, the D-Highlands treatment (one hour) is inspired by Kobido facial massage techniques and enhanced with the Dior Prestige line, resulting in a rejuvenating facial that sculpts the face’s features and improves the skin’s appearance.
New Journey: Highland Survival Adventure
The new three-night Highland Survival Adventure journey, June 30-July 3, 2023, is designed with adrenaline-seekers in mind as they connect to nature far from the stresses of everyday life. Traveling roundtrip from Edinburgh, the itinerary features several outdoor challenges in some of the most secluded locations in the Western Highlands. Led by WILDNIS’ guides – former Royal Marines Sergeant, George MacHardy and seasoned survivalist, Eliza Brown – the Royal Scotsman guests will explore the indigenous flora and fauna, take part in a modern-day Royal Marines Commando Assault Training program, and feast on an al fresco lunch prepared by WILDNIS’ chef and ‘field to plate’ cuisine advocate, Tom Byrom. On the third day, guests will put their skills to the test rappelling down a cascading waterfall followed by a reinvigorating wild swim session. Back on the train for the final night onboard, guests will dine on Scottish delicacies as Royal Scotsman makes its way back to Edinburgh. Rates start at $8,750 per person on an all-inclusive basis.
New Journey: A Taste of Scotland with Tom Kitchin
From September 4-6, 2023, the Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, one of Scotland’s most celebrated culinary stars, will host a two-night journey through the Scottish Highlands. Allowing guests to delve deeper into the region’s indigenous produce, Tom Kitchin will showcase his ‘From Nature-to-Plate’ culinary philosophy as the train journeys from Edinburgh to Boat of Garten, Inverness, Dundee and back to the capital. Guests will enjoy several meals with Chef Kitchin including a welcome four-course dinner, a barbecue lunch in Cairngorms National Park, and a Gala dinner to close out the journey. Highlights also include an exclusive wine masterclass with local wine merchants, L’Art du Vin, in the train’s Observation Car and a tour and expert-led whisky tasting at Benromach distillery. Rates start at $6,690 per person on an all-inclusive basis.
Space to Watch
Two new Grand Suites by interior designer Tristan Auer are set to join the rake in May 2024 with ensuite bathrooms, double beds, and private living area. Grand Suite guests will also enjoy added amenities including private transfers to and from the train and one spa treatment in the train’s dedicated spa carriage. Rates will start at $7,500 per person on an all-inclusive basis.
For more information, please visit belmond.com.
ABOUT BELMOND
Belmond has been a pioneer of luxury travel for 46 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 50 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
INSTAGRAM: BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
November 9th, 2022
PONANT is collaborating with Smithsonian Journeys on a series of co-branded sailings for 2023 and 2024. Each of the itineraries will be led by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts—whether an art historian, a solar astrophysicist, or an international relations expert—whose expertise and knowledge will shed new light on a destination and deepen travelers’ immersion in place.
Among the new sailings is a nine-day circumnavigation of Sicily on Le Champlain, April 14-22, 2024. Departing from Valletta, the capital of Malta, the itinerary includes visits to well-preserved Greek ruins, impressive Norman cathedrals, active volcanoes, and a handful of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, giving travelers a sense of these country’s ancient civilizations and cultural riches. On-board discussions by Smithsonian Journeys Experts will complement the excursions, adding important context and illuminating perspectives.
Like Sicily, Malta has also been ruled by various civilizations throughout history, making the destination a fascinating jumping-off point. From Valletta, Le Champlain will make its way to the smaller Maltese island of Gozo to see the megalithic temples of Ġgantija and an adjoining archaeological museum, plus red-sand beaches and a crystal-clear sea. Then it’s on to the southwestern coast of Sicily, home to the seaside commune of Porto Empedocle and the UNESCO-recognized Temple Valley, an archaeological site with temples dedicated to Zeus and other mythological gods. Rounding the western tip of the island, the ship will arrive in Trapani for an excursion into the countryside, the ancient Doric temple of Segesta, and the medieval hilltop commune of Erice. From there, it’s on to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and one of Europe’s most vibrant and up-and-coming cities, where Byzantine mosaics and baroque churches exist alongside chic artisan studios and trendy restaurants. There, activities range from a tour of the Capella Palatina, a Byzantine-Arab-Norman structure with dazzling mosaics and magnificent inlaid marble floors and walls, or a drive to nearby Monreale to explore its famed Norman cathedral.
Just north of Sicily is Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands, characterized by lava stone quarries, a dramatic coastline, and a castle within a fortified citadel. After a visit here, travelers will sail north to Stromboli, taking in panoramic vistas of the active volcano, before crossing through the Strait of Messina to arrive at Taormina, the so-called St. Tropez of Sicily. There, visit a winery on the slopes of Mount Etna — the largest active volcano in Europe— or tour Taormina town with its historic Greek Theater which looks out to the dazzling coastline.
The final port of call is Syracuse, colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C. and one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world, where guests will visit the Roman Amphitheater of Augustus and the 15,000-seat Greek theater.
Rates start at $6,500 per person.
PONANT’s “Explore to Inspire” mission is centered around exploration to better understand, learn, share and protect. For more than 30 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.
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. In addition to ocean cruises with PONANT, Smithsonian Journeys offers small-group land journeys, 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.
October 10th, 2022
BELMOND REIMAGINES SLOW TRAVEL WITH THE LAUNCH OF
COQUELICOT, A BELMOND BOAT, CHAMPAGNE TO DEBUT IN MAY 2023
Top-deck lifestyle, bespoke itineraries and an exclusive partnership with Maison Ruinart take travelers deeper into the effervescence of Champagne
October 10, 2022 – Belmond is delighted to announce the launch of a luxury barge, part of its unmatched French collection: Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne. Debuting in May 2023, Coquelicot will take guests on a cinematic journey of Champagne in partnership with Maison Ruinart, the world’s oldest champagne house. Featuring three spacious cabins with ensuite facilities, an indoor salon with a champagne bar, and an extensive outdoor deck, Coquelicot will set a new standard of sophistication for slow-paced sailing in France. Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat is available for week-long private charters starting from €82,000 (approximately $79,500).
Designed by successful French duo, Humbert & Poyet, Coquelicot, formerly the Hirondelle barge, will boast three double cabins with marble ensuite bathrooms and an indoor lounge with a champagne bar – stocked with a curated selection of the guests’ preferred labels. The vessel’s top deck will be the social center for guests to unwind as they meander the calm waterways. Framed by potted local herbs and indigenous wildflowers that root the space in the locale, the deck features two seating lounges, an open kitchen and a shaded dining area to enjoy a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients from trusted local suppliers.
To complement the ever-changing views and create an intimate sanctuary on the water, the barge’s interiors and exteriors will capture the essence of Champagne, with nods to the region’s hues and character. Local fabrics in earthy tones and raw materials will honor Champagne’s agricultural heritage, while fluted walls, decadent interiors and pieces of art will pay homage to the land’s glorious present. Coquelicot’s namesake, the red poppy, will be found in subtle references such as the hand-cut red marble side tables and the tone-on-tone hand-painted petals that line the hallway, while the lounge’s skylight is a celebration of Champagne’s water mapping legacy.
Elevating the river barge journey, Belmond has partnered with Maison Ruinart to offer exclusive access to the first established House of Champagne with a private tasting lunch by Chef In Residence Valérie Radou and guided tours of the historic Taissy vineyard to discover the brand’s latest sustainability initiatives. Guests will disembark Coquelicot for unrivaled access to Taissy vineyard, which has been referenced as early as 1733 in the Maison’s archives. Immersed in the hillsides of the Champagne region, Maison Ruinart, in partnership with Reforest’Action and the University of Reims, launched a pioneering viti-forestry project in 2021 to preserve and regenerate forests in order to restore biodiversity. Also dotting the grounds is a new art installation by German visual artist Nils-Udo, a pioneer of land art. A technical tasting of iconic Maison Ruinart cuvées, led by a Maison Ambassador, will conclude the morning experience in the vineyard.
Back on board, Belmond guests will be treated to a private five-course tasting lunch by Maison Ruinart’s Chef In Residence Valérie Radou and Coquelicot Head Chef. It will be the first time Maison Ruinart’s Chef will be cooking a private ‘four hands’ lunch outside of Maison Ruinart. A true lesson in French art de vivre, this dining experience includes five seasonal dishes inspired by regional cuisine and paired with prestigious cuvées such as Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Dom Ruinart Rosé. Framed by the idyllic landscape and in the comfort and privacy of their own luxury boat, guests will delve deep into the world of Maison Ruinart, as their ambassador reveals the story, characteristics and technical aspects of each bottle.
Personal Guest Experience Executives will help craft customized itineraries depending on guest preferences. Whether an art-focused tour of Champagne, a historic voyage through the mighty castles, an active adventure on two wheels or a series of epicurean visits to Europe’s most celebrated and most secret wine producers, guests will have the liberty to design their own journey and marvel at the region’s treasures at their own pace. Alternate an al fresco soirée on the top deck with an off-board Michelin-starred restaurant experience or a less inhibited dinner in one of the quaint villages scattered across the region. The all-inclusive journeys include table d’hóte meals, complimentary beverages, all planned excursions escorted by a private guide, and transfer from Paris to the barge. Helicopter transfers from Paris are also available upon request.
Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne is part of Les Bateaux Belmond, the brand’s unrivaled collection of boats in France. The fleet includes: Alouette, A Belmond Boat, Canal Du Midi; Pivoine, A Belmond Boat, Camargue; Napoléon, A Belmond Boat, Provence; Amaryllis, A Belmond Boat, Burgundy; Fleur De Lys, A Belmond Boat, Burgundy; Lilas, A Belmond Boat, Burgundy.
To book or for further information, please visit Belmond.com or call +44 (0)20 7921 4000.
Renderings of the new barges are available here.
About Belmond
Belmond has been a pioneer of exceptional luxury travel for over 46 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 50 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 Iguassu 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. www.belmond.com
Follow Belmond: Instagram • Twitter • Facebook
October 4th, 2022
If you’re looking for the ultimate gift for the traveler in your life, guess what—it’s travel! This year, wow your globe-trotting friends and loved ones with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. With a lineup of unique travel experiences on the horizon for 2023, why not splurge on a sailing to the North Pole, a foraging excursion through the Brazilian rainforest, a Greenland heli-skiing expedition led by one of the world’s most decorated skiers, or a genealogical research trip to Ireland? Here are our top picks.
For the Aspiring Arctic Explorer: A Sailing to the Geographic North Pole
If you’re going all out on the gifts this year, you can’t do better than a cruise to the Geographic North Pole aboard PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker and the only passenger ship to take travelers to the mythical and remote region. With eight departures for the summer 2022 and 2023 Arctic season beginning at $35,960 per person, PONANT’s North Pole sailings will take tourists to the farthest corners of the Northern Hemisphere, where floating pack ice, polar bear sightings, naturalist-led excursions, and scientific collaboration are part of the itinerary. The 16-day exploration begins in Longyearbyen, the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, then along the icy coast of Spitsbergen, the last stretch of land before the Arctic ice floe, and finally to the Geographic North Pole. Off-ship excursions range from outings in Zodiacs, ice fishing, and chances to participate in citizen science experiments like setting up a research station on an ice floe. While the landscapes in the Geographic North Pole are frost-bitten and extreme, the accommodations aboard Le Commandant Charcot are inviting and luxurious. The ship is designed to feel more like a yacht versus a traditional cruise ship, with 123 staterooms and suites, chef-crafted meals designed by Alain Ducasse, a wellness area in partnership with Biologique Recherche, and extras like Veuve Clicquot Champagne, Kristal caviar, and Bordier butter.
For the Underwater Enthusiast: An Ocean Expedition Off Cape Town’s Coast
Buying for the friend or family member who just completed their diving certification? Or the person who’s always watching BBC Earth? Gift them the experience of discovering the extraordinary aquatic world just off Cape Town’s coast, with renowned shark scientist Justin Blake as their guide. The ocean expedition will take travelers through the Cape Kelp Forests, where they’ll explore the same octopus gardens made famous in the 2020 Oscar-winning documentary My Octopus Teacher—plus, snorkel with friendly sharks, explore fascinating sea caves, and discover spectacular views of Cape Town both above and below the water’s surface. For sustenance, explorers will feast on a sustainably sourced seafood picnic created by chef Rudi Riebenberg of the iconic Belmond Mount Nelson hotel. Expect delicacies sourced by ABALOBI, a South African-based social enterprise that supports small-scale fishing communities.
For the Adrenaline Junkie: A Heli-Skiing Adventure in Greenland
While heli-skiing is a favorite pastime of the world’s most fearless adventurers, the sport is becoming more popular among a wider set of adventurers than ever before, opening up access to some of the world’s most pristine skiable terrain. In Greenland, the world’s largest island, 80% of the glaciated landscape has never been skied before—which means wide, treeless powdery expanses, snowfields flanking glacier-carved peaks, and conditions ranging from powder to corn. On April 23-30, 2023, US Olympic alpine ski racer Bode Miller—the most decorated male alpine skier in U.S. history— will join an EYOS on a “slope-to-sea” heli-skiing adventure in Greenland aboard the Nansen Explorer. Solo travelers can book single cabins on the yacht, making the exclusive voyage more accessible than ever before. Miller He will be joined by ski guide and two-time World Extreme Skiing Champion Chris Davenport and polar pioneer Doug Stoup. The expedition will take adventure lovers to the island of Maniitsoq on the western coast of Greenland, widely considered one of the most remote places in the world to heli-ski, where it’s possible to ski from slope to sea. The ship will cover 150 miles beyond the Arctic Circle to Disko Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to some of the largest icebergs in the world. Days will be filled with deep powder runs—some stretching more than a mile—on the narrow fjords down to the water’s edge. Bode Miller, Chris Davenport, Doug Stoup and EYOS’s expert team of internationally certified mountain guides will guide guests as they navigate crevasses and knife-edge ridge tops, helping them find the best runs for their ski levels. Originally designed as an Arctic research vessel, the 12-guest Nansen Explorer is specifically equipped for polar waters, with an ice-strengthened hull and a commercially certified heli deck that makes for the ideal launch pad for heli-skiing adventures. Because of the vessel’s ice-crushing power, it’s possible to reach Greenland in time for early spring.
For the Family Historian: A Genealogical Deep Dive in Ireland
We all have that one family member who is devoted to tracing the family lineage. If your family has Irish roots, consider gifting a trip to Ireland complete with a stay at a centuries-old castle and a session with a genealogist. Dromoland Castle’s in-house genealogist, Lorna Moloney, will uncover birth records, land deeds, baptisms, marriages, ship logs and other information that will shed light on your family’s history and expose little-known details. One client discovered they were related to the famous female pirate Grace O’Malley, and another discovered her great-great-grandfather had a tattoo of Queen Victoria on his bicep!
For the Hard-to-Buy-For Teenager: An Eco-Challenge in Chile
Teens are notoriously difficult to buy for. Instead of splurging on a skateboard or the latest piece of tech, why not invest in an immersive and educational eco-adventure in Chile? andBeyond’s new WILDchild Eco-guide Challenge in Chile invites one adult and one teen for a four-night, conservation-focused itinerary, with thrilling excursions—horseback riding, catch-and-release fishing, rock-climbing, and much more—and the possibility to win certificates and prizes at a festive ceremony dinner. Teens will also work on a sustainability audit of the lodge and visit the local Mapuche people and a traditional ruka (Mapuche house). April 3-7, 2023. Rates: $3,465 per person
For the Wellness Seeker: A Foraging Excursion in the Brazilian Rainforest
At UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa in Trancoso, Brazil, in-house doctor Jullian Hamamoto leads custom foraging expeditions through the area’s four different biomes (including the nearby Itapororoca beach, and the 50-acre UXUA ROÇA farm) in search of rare and exotic fruits, roots, and herbs, ingredients, many of which are sacred to Brazil’s Indigeous Pataxó people. Post-excursion, Hamamoto will take guests to VIDA Lab, the on-site nutritional laboratory and medical kitchen, to demonstrate how to transform these ingredients into nutritious juices, essential oils, and even ice cream.At UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa in Trancoso, Brazil, in-house doctor Jullian Hamamoto leads custom foraging expeditions through the area’s four different biomes (including the nearby Itapororoca beach, and the 50-acre UXUA ROÇA farm) in search of rare and exotic fruits, roots, and herbs, ingredients, many of which are sacred to Brazil’s Indigeous Pataxó people. Post-excursion, Hamamoto will take guests to VIDA Lab, the on-site nutritional laboratory and medical kitchen, to demonstrate how to transform these ingredients into nutritious juices, essential oils, and even ice cream.
For the Time Traveler: A Journey Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
A 1920s Art Deco icon, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express evokes the golden age of travel with its restored vintage carriages, each of which formed part of of the famous, historic trains of the 1920s and 1930s, including Le Train Bleu and the Rome Express. Crisscrossing through Europe, the journeys whisk travelers to some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities including London, Paris, Venice, Prague, Vienna and Budapest. The classic journey is the overnight route to and from London and Venice via Paris, through the Alps and across the Venetian lagoon. A particularly wonderous itinerary is the five-night journey between Paris and Istanbul, which is offered just once a year and includes overnight stops in Budapest and Bucharest and daytime halts in Sinaia and Varna for excursions. The next trip will take place September 1, 2023 (from 17,500 EUR per person). Also coming up for 2023 is the unveiling of eight new suites. Two original 1920s and 30s carriages, accommodating just four suites on each car, will be carefully restored, their design inspired by pastoral European landscapes and featuring plush fabrics and furnishings from renowned brands and makers like Majorelle, Dufrene, Leleu, Rousseau, and Lalique. The suites are portals to the golden day of train travel, with luxuries like private marble ensuite bathrooms and lounging areas that transform into either double or twin beds by night. Additional amenities might include personal 24-hour cabin stewards, complimentary kimonos and slippers, and free-flowing champagne.
October 4th, 2022
White Elephant, overlooking the harbor, has been an integral part of Nantucket’s history since the 1920s. Built as a series of rustic cottages, the landmark has evolved into the island’s most timeless resort, with a collection of chic accommodations showcasing the very best of the beloved destination. In May 2023, in time with the White Elephant’s 100th anniversary, the resort will debut yet another metamorphosis, with a multi-million dollar, top-to-bottom restoration and renovation of its 66-room and -suite Harborside Hotel and 11 Cottages.
Elkus Manfredi Architects, the design firm who brought us the multi-award-winning White Elephant Palm Beach, has conceived of a bright, airy, residential-inspired refresh, drawing on the essence of Nantucket—its history, the quality of light, its natural landscapes, the colors, textures, and artistic legacy—to breathe new life into these historic accommodations. All materials and finishes will be replaced, from the carpets to the fixtures and the furnishings, with an emphasis on design details that are authentic to place and exude effortless sophistication. The patterns of the textiles will draw on the island’s rich history of basket weaving; antique brass accents evoke classic Nantucket; and light blue ceilings in the rooms recall the skies on a summer’s day. The brand’s deep heritage will be woven throughout, with brass elephant knockers on doors, elephant door and drawer pulls, and elephant needlepoint pillows in rooms.
The Harborside Hotel will debut a redesigned lobby that sets the tone for relaxed elegance, drawing in local elements like a basket weave carpet design that nods to the surroundings. Rooms are awash in a palette of Labrador blue, seafoam, and shell white, with rattan textiles, scalloped lampshades and headboards, and grass cloth wall coverings that evoke the island’s dune grasses.
Like the distinct patterns that make up an exquisite quilt, the 11 cottages will all be individually decorated and styled after plants indigenous to Nantucket: Bayberry, Hydrangea, Daylily, Beachplum, Honeysuckle, Holly, Arrowwood, Marigold, Rosa Rugosa, and Snapdragon. Each cottage will take a plant as inspiration, with color palettes and artworks that evoke the flora—tones of buttery yellow for the Honeysuckle room, pale lavender for Beachplum, and pale pink for Rose. Charming, warm, and inviting, each space will feel like stepping into someone’s home.
New original art will be installed throughout, resulting from the brand’s all-new Artist in Residency Program, launched in August 2022. New York based art consultant and curator Emily Santangelo worked closely with White Elephant’s owners, the Karp family, to create a mini-residency made up for acclaimed artists from around the world.
For more information, visit https://www.whiteelephantresorts.com or call 1.800.475.2637.
For renderings, visit https://www.whiteelephantnantucket.com/lto
Credit for renderings: @Elkus Manfredi Architects
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. The Wauwinet was ranked in Travel + Leisure’s T+L 500 awards. In 2021, The Wauwinet was recognized by Travel + Leisure’s World Best Awards and both White Elephant 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 25 consecutive years. Following its debut, White Elephant Palm Beach has also been recognized as the #1 Resort in Florida in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best Awards.
September 22nd, 2022
September 22, 2022 – Two of the world’s leaders in ocean exploration have joined forces to push the boundaries of underwater conservation and research and embark on critical citizen science missions to the farthest reaches of the planet. EYOS, the authority in private superyacht expeditions, has partnered with Ocean Conservation Exploration and Education Foundation (OCEEF), a 501(c)(3) organization to educate the world about the ocean through immersive, data-collecting missions aboard OCEEF’s five-star research yacht, RV Odyssey. The advanced vessel will circumnavigate the world with missions in Antarctica, the Chagos Archipelago, the Galapagos and other remote destinations, where they will explore aquatic ecosystems teeming with biodiversity alongside top scientists, explorers, students, and educators.
Committed to field research and scientific inquiry, EYOS and OCEEF share a mission to leverage exploration as a way of driving greater awareness about the Earth’s oceans. EYOS Founding Partner Rob McCallum says, “Working with OCEEF in this way is a natural complement to EYOS’ last few years leading and managing the Five Deeps and Ring of Fire expeditions that dove the Challenger Deep and previously unseen deepsea environments. Odyssey represents the new frontier of expedition travel, mixing cutting edge science, with adventure travel and expedition cruising. The opportunity and potential for further discovery with this vessel’s program is immense, and it will be tremendously exciting for all those fortunate enough to be onboard.”
EYOS founders Rob McCallum & Tim Soper have been at the forefront of deep ocean exploration and combining science with private travel for decades, and the company holds several world records and has been instrumental in numerous scientific discoveries. On the exclusive missions aboard the RV Odyssey, EYOS will provide logistical support and expedition leadership, empowering guests to fully take part in this most innovative opportunity in superyacht travel.
Alex Moukas, Founder of OCEEF, adds, “We are very excited to be partnering with EYOS in such a meaningful way. OCEEF’s goal is to provide world-class scientists free access to the vessel and help them design impactful missions. EYOS can help match the scientists and locations with Ocean and Expedition enthusiasts that make these incredible missions possible. We are looking forward to continuing to bring passionate citizen scientists unmatched experiences on and below the world’s oceans.”
RV Odyssey (formerly the MV Alucia) is also a pioneer in underwater exploration in its own right. She launched the French submersible Nautile on the first dives on the Titanic in 1987; participated in the successful search for the black box of Air France flight 447; supported the first filming of the giant squid in the wild with former owner OceanX; and hosted David Attenborough among other luminaries in science and conservation. EYOS founders McCallum and Soper were instrumental in her design and build during the vessel’s four-year conversion from RV Nadir to MV Alucia. McCallum says, “When her conversion was complete in 2011, she was the world’s first hybrid ship outfitted with multiple submersibles, hangared helicopters, world class SCUBA facilities, ocean mapping, and multiple science laboratories. She was one of the most capable expedition yachts afloat– and her current mission with OCEEF is exactly what we had in mind for her all those years ago.” Today, she can accommodate a helicopter, and is equipped with two Triton submersibles, one of which can dive to a depth of 7,500 feet.
Through cutting-edge technology like gamified ocean-learning experiences, OCEEF’s RV Odyssey will engage with millions of children and young adults as it circumnavigates the globe. Empowering the next generation of ocean explorers and conservationists, students will join scientists in an immersive undersea experience as they discover new species, learn the importance of ocean conservation, and share their findings in real time with participants around the world.
Over the next year, the RV Odyssey will embark on a series of first-of-its-kind missions, offering an exclusive 360-degree adventure that will help drive education and a better understanding of our oceans. These immersive adventures include studying mesophotic coral reef ecosystems in the Chagos Archipelago, seeking the killer whales that attack great white sharks off the coast of Cape Town, documenting hydrothermal vents on Antarctica’s Deception Island, participating in threatened species recovery studies in the Galapagos, and journeying around the Mediterranean—from Sardinia and Sicily to Crete and Santorini—and discover ancient Roman and Greek triremes (triple-decker warships).
OCEEF invites travelers to support its missions in Antarctica this winter season by traveling aboard RV Odyssey for the most exclusive experience possible – a firsthand look at the very research participants are helping support. With a tax-deductible donation of $150,000, donors and their friends or family members can be invited onboard the RV Odyssey and join the crew of scientists, expedition leaders, and students to experience life onboard.
As RV Odyssey is classified as a research vessel, in cooperation with researchers on-board and local communities, OCEEF is able to get Special Research Permits and conduct operations in unique locations that are typically closed to all other visitors.
100% of the proceeds go to supporting the research and educational mission of OCEEF– whether searching for the Colossal Squid in the deepest parts of the Antarctic or analyzing hydrothermal vents on Antarctica’s most active volcano. In addition, OCEEF supports ongoing scientific studies and scholarships for local communities and students – ensuring a long-lasting impact on the future of ocean conservation.
For more information on OCEEF or to make a donation, please visit https://www.oceef.org/.
About EYOS
Founded in 2008, EYOS is the world leader in private superyacht expeditions charters. Specializing in bespoke itineraries that take travelers to the most remote and culturally rich parts of the world, EYOS operates across all seven continents. They hold several world records and world ‘firsts,’ such as the furthest south that any vessel has ever reached in history, and the first commercial expedition to the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the ocean. In 2019, EYOS pioneered the first ever “single cabin” departures allowing travelers to book individual cabins on a superyacht. All journeys are guided by a team of experts with decades of experience.
About Ocean Conservation Exploration and Education Foundation (OCEEF)
OCEEF aim to help shape a world where people appreciate the importance of the Ocean and take action to protect it and ensure its sustainability. The Foundation is taking one of the most capable Oceanographic vessels around the world to educate the world about the Ocean and help develop practical ways to save it by educating a new generation of ocean stewards. OCEEF leverages technology to change hearts, transform minds, and advance awareness about ocean conservation and research.
September 15th, 2022
After a two-and-a-half-year closure
Nayara Resorts will finally open Nayara Hangaroa on September 15! The hotel joined the Nayara portfolio during its two-year Covid closure so this will be the first time it is open and operating as Nayara Hangaroa.
Due to its extremely remote locale, Easter Island has been incredibly strict throughout Covid to protect its population. The island officially reopened in August and is ready to welcome visitors. There are currently three flights per week from mainland Chile and LATAM is planning to add more starting in January 2023.
Nayara Hangaroa is the perfect home base to explore the island – from guided tours to Ahu Tongariki for the best photo opps on the island (with the 15 moai making up an iconic view) to solo ATVing discovering secret caves and remote beaches to catching the sunrise over the moai before checking out and heading to the airport. Guests who book the combination of both Nayara Hangaroa and Nayara Alto Atacama (in Chile’s Atacama Desert) get a 15% discount.
What’s happening on the island?
The Tapati Festival is the biggest party of the year on Easter Island and is tentatively planned for February 1 to 15, 2023. The festival began in the 1970s as a way of maintaining and promoting the Rapa Nui culture among the islanders, particularly fostering a sense of identity among the children. The festival comprises dancing and singing competitions, sporting events like swimming, canoeing, and horse racing, and crowning a Queen of the Tapati for that year. One highlight is the Haka Pei competition which involves sliding down the island’s steepest slope on banana trunks.
More about Nayara Hangaroa…
Guests at the 75-room property are immersed in the culture of the island and have at their fingertips unforgettable experiences like sunset over the moai in Tahai and hiking Ara O Te Ao, one of the oldest paths on the island leading to a massive crater. The hotel is in a prime location just a five-minute walk from the town of Rapa Nui, allowing travelers seamless connection with the local community.
Design
The design of Nayara Hangaroa was inspired by the history of the island, particularly the ancient Orongo stone village. This is central to the Rapa Nui culture and history and is where the birdman cult took place and where the ancient Rapa Nui chose their next king. The architecture blends in with the environment through its grass roofs and colors and textures of the island. Standout designs include the reception area modeled after the old houses that were made with boats, the wooden pillars seen throughout the hotel made of cypresses brought from the south of Chile, and the handcrafted items in the rooms such as the one-piece clay bathtubs made in large ovens and the hand-carved vanities.
Food & Beverage
The two restaurants on property – Poerava and Kaloa – and Vaikoa, the pool bar, all offer recipes using locally caught fish seasoned with Polynesian spices, with the ceviche being particularly popular.
- Poevara is the main dining experience with an airy inside and a large outdoor terrace with ocean views.
- Kaloa is a minimalist lounge with large banquette seating, comfortable pillows, and sunset views. Popular with guests and locals for creative cocktails and the freshest local seafood.
- Vaikoa is the main bar by the pool specializing in cold dishes and refreshing drinks.
Accommodations
The 75 rooms are the most spacious on the island and have been designed by Chilean interior designer Paula Gutiérrez showcasing locally made handicrafts and made to exude the magical energy of the island. The design team eschewed sharp angles and opted for mostly rounded edges – recommended for a better night’s rest. The rooms prioritize natural light and natural materials such as cypress logs lining the ceilings, clay soaking tubs, and volcanic stones framing the bed and bathroom. To intensify the sense of disconnection and the wonder of Rapa Nui, the rooms intentionally lack televisions.
Wellness
Embracing Polynesian culture, Spa Manavai seeks to heal the body and spirit. The enriching therapies, massages, and treatments are all based on natural products from the island aimed at creating a deep relaxation, enriching the soul, mind and body.
Experiences
Being a guest at Nayara Hangaroa means taking in the island and immersion into its wonder and ancient history, especially, but not limited to, the awe-inspiring moai dotting the island. The majority of the hotel’s guides are local Rapa Nui people who are well versed in the history and culture of the island.
- Visit Ahu Tongariki for the best photo opps on the island and to see the 15 moai that make up one of the island’s most iconic views.
- One of the oldest paths on the island, Ara O Te Ao, leads to the Rano Kau lookout point, the island’s largest crater, and onto Orongo, the ancient ceremonial village.
- See the moai at Ahu Akivi – the only moai on the island that look out across the sea (all the others have their backs to the ocean).
- Get the full spectrum by catching the sunrise at Tongariki and the sunset at Tahai.
- Experience the sea by sailing between the three islets in front of the Rano Kau cliff, known locally as the Motu Nui and known for its concentration of marine birdlife.
- Traverse the island on bikes or ATVs stopping at historic caves, empty beaches, and taking in the coastline.
- End a visit by watching the sunrise over the moai before checking out and heading to the airport.
Rates start at $678 per person per night, all inclusive.
Images Courtesy of Nayara Resorts: https://we.tl/t-BSmxMur9Da
Entry Requirements:
To visit Easter Island, you can see the full requirements here, which include:
- A negative PCR test result taken 24 hours before boarding. (An antigen test from a health center will be allowed in minors under 6 years old.)
- Mobility Pass (certificate of vaccination and identity document for foreigners)
- Single Entry Form (FUI)
- Round-trip ticket
- Reservation at a tourist service registered in SERNATUR or invitation letter from the Provincial Delegation.
- 7-day health follow-up
- * Along with these requirements, passengers flying from abroad shall be tested with a mandatory antigen test upon their arrival on Rapa Nui/Easter Island
About Nayara Resorts
In addition to the three properties in Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara Resorts has also expanded to Chile’s Atacama Desert and Easter Island, and most recently to Panama’s Bocas Del Toro. All properties share spectacular natural settings, immersive guest experiences, five-star service, and a commitment to sustainability and community impact. Nayara Resorts is the vision of Colombian hotelier Leo Ghitis, who sought to bring international standards of hospitality and excellence to Central and South America.
September 14th, 2022
London was one of summer 2022’s top travel destinations, capturing 22 percent of European bookings by some measures. Now, the city is preparing for an action-packed fall. This October promises an impressive lineup of can’t-miss cultural and sporting events, giving travelers the perfect excuse to visit when the temperatures are crisp, the leaves are changing color, and the crowds have thinned out.
The expert concierge at The Beaumont, a landmark-listed boutique jewel overlooking the quiet Brown Hart Gardens in Mayfair, has helped narrow down their favorites of the season. And the recently-renovated property has also announced two new offers: a blind-folded wine tasting at The Colony Grill Room and a Spa Break package.
The Beaumont Picks:
Start with Eureka Day, the European premiere of playwright Jonathan Spector’s 2018 drama starring Helen Hunt. The satirical play is about a mumps outbreak at a school in California, and the frenzy that ensues as parents squabble over mandatory vaccination. Timely, smart, and laugh-out-loud funny, it’s been described as “wince-inducing” satire that’s sure to get people talking. Runs at the Old Vic theater through October 31.
This fall, the first major British exhibition of the great American Realist painter Winslow Homer will be on view at the National Gallery. The “Force of Nature” exhibition will bring together more than 50 paintings, covering over 40 years of Homer’s career, spanning the American Civil War and the artist’s stints in France, England, the Bahamas, Cuba, and Bermuda. Visitors can expect sketches of battle and camp life, turbulent seascapes, and works that reflect Homer’s interest in the pressing issues of his time: conflict, race, and the relationship between humans and their environment. On view through January 8, 2023.
Finally, America’s National Football League is due to return to London this October, with three must-see games. On October 2, the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints will open the series, followed by a game between the New York Giants and the Green Bay Packers (their first London appearance!) on October 9. Both games will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This year’s series will conclude at Wembley Stadium, with the Denver Broncos playing the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 30.
News from The Beaumont:
Be sure to check out the hotel’s newest services and amenities—including a blind-folded wine tasting at The Colony Grill Room. Sommeliers Giorgio Scavarelli and Antonio Verrando will take guests on a fun-filled exploratory wine journey, with the aim of introducing them to new and perhaps unfamiliar grape types and wine styles. For €50 per person, the sommeliers will pour four wines that will correspond to the selection of dishes ordered. Guess the wines served (name and vintage), the wine flight is free! Insider’s tip: Scavarelli is a native of Piedmont, so you might want to level up on your Nebbiolos and Barberas before the experience!
The Beaumont has also introduced a Spa Break package, which is available every day of the week, for one or two guests who are staying at the hotel for a single night. It includes a 90-minute spa treatment (choose from massages and facials), plus a glass of Gusbourne in the Gatsby’s Room, and the daily ‘Beaumont Baker’s Basket’ breakfast, among other inclusions. From €949 for a Classic Room.
August 19th, 2022
Virtuoso® Reveals Preferences and Top Destinations for Upscale Travelers this Fall and Festive Season
Las Vegas (August 16, 2022) – Global luxury travel network Virtuoso® reveals when, where and how the affluent are traveling next. Respected as an industry-leading trend forecaster, Virtuoso gathered data and insights from its network of travel advisors, preferred partners and high net worth/ultra-high net worth clientele based on its data warehouse of more than $49.5 billion in transactions and an ongoing series of surveys. The results were shared at luxury travel’s leading event, the 34th annual Virtuoso Travel Week. Running August 13-19 in Las Vegas at Bellagio Resort & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, and Vdara Hotel & Spa, the event is recognized as the fashion week of travel, where the latest news and trends affecting the industry are unveiled.
While travel has felt, at times, uncertain during 2022, luxury travelers have led the way forward, even in the face of covid variants, travel restrictions, and overwhelmed airports. The pent-up demand that many of us felt during the last few years has resulted in a surge in flights and bookings, resulting in trends like revenge travel and hectic “Airmageddon” scenes at major airports around the world. It’s no wonder why this year’s summer vacation cost more than it did last year and even the years before that – travelers are ready to get back out there and spend, and not just to Europe but the broader world. Both inbound and outbound leisure travel sales are booming, in some cases surpassing 2019 levels, and booking windows have normalized back to pre-pandemic numbers (which explains why it’s so hard to find deals and discounts). Despite the challenges, it’s undeniable that the future is bright, with travel sales in 2023 pacing 47 percent higher than 2019.
An overview of the information is below, with complete findings here.
Travel Roars Back
- Upscale travelers are ready to resume their pre-pandemic travel lives and have consistently led the way, even during shaky times. In January 2022, 85 percent said they were in a ready-to-travel mindset and 86 percent planned to take an international trip. Fast forward to summer 2022, even airports overwhelmed with air traffic and lost baggage is no strong deterrent for getting back out there.
- When it comes to recovery, the spend for outbound leisure travel is expected to outpace actual travel (i.e., the volume of people on the ground). According to Tourism Economics, in some markets, like Australia, U.K., and France, the differential between the two is quite slim. For others, like Mexico, China, and Brazil, the spend is expected to return years ahead of the number of outbound travelers.
- Outbound leisure travel sales have shown a strong rebound, even in markets where borders only recently opened up. The U.S. has already outperformed 2019 numbers for 2022 by 122 percent, Australia by 113 percent and Canada – at 80 percent – is rapidly catching up. Globally, we have surpassed 2019 – travel’s high water mark – for outbound travel booked January-July at 102%.
- Hotel booking windows are much wider than they were in 2019. Now, the median window for domestic hotels is 58 days (compared to 2019’s 44) and 80 days for international hotels (compared to 60). This is good news for hotels, of course, but for travelers it means more difficulty finding deals and discounts.
- 76 percent of travelers have accepted a “new normal” (up from 35 percent in January 2022), with many travelers making peace with all the uncertainty and volatility. Now, the number of travelers who were put off by traveling in January 2022 has dropped by 26 points (from 38 percent to 12 percent).
- Future sales of travel in 2023 are pacing 47 percent higher than 2019—great news for cruising, which is leading the way with heavy bookings in 2023.
- According to Tourism Economics, global outbound leisure spending won’t fully bounce back until Q2 2024 exceeding 2019 levels by 21 percent by 2024. And from there, the numbers keep climbing, surging to 55 percent of 2019 levels by 2026.
- 74 percent of Virtuoso travelers say “creating a travel experience that best fits my expectations is more important than price,” with plans to increase their previous year’s spend of $20,700 per person by 34 percent to $27,800 in the next year
Who is Traveling, Where are They Headed, and Why Are They Going Now?
- How are people traveling? The most popular way is traveling with a spouse or significant other, followed by traveling with friends and family trips with kids under 18. While traveling with friends showed a slight decrease (from 46 percent in 2019 to 36 percent in 2022), it’s still the second-most popular form of travel.
- Solo travel is on the rise—but not in the way you might expect. Interestingly, among Virtuoso clients, the highest level of interest is coming from the 65+ age group, increasing from 4 percent in 2019 to 18 percent in 2022. Meanwhile, the interest among travelers ages 18-34 has dropped from 12 percent in 2019 to 6 percent in 2022.
- Younger, richer travelers are getting out there in a big way. The 18-34 age group averaged 2.2 more international trips in the past year than the 65+ age group and 1.3 more domestic trips. DIY travelers took about the same number of trips in the past year as Virtuoso-advised travelers, but the latter took longer trips, spending more nights in hotels, rentals, and cruises and skewed more toward international trips.
- 78 percent of travelers say they’re ready to travel now. For 87 percent of those polled, the dollar’s parity with the Euro plays a factor. And only 35 percent say that this summer’s air travel complications have caused them to cancel or postpone plans.
- The hottest global summer destinations? The United States, Italy, France, Canada, and Greece come out on top, followed by the U.K., Spain, Mexico, Ireland, and Switzerland.
- The U.S., Italy, France, Mexico, and Canada are among the top international destinations for September-December 2022. And hotel bookings for fall and festive travel (September 1 to January 15) made through July of this year are at 173 percent of where they were at the same point in 2019.
- While 45 percent of people say they’re ready to travel now or within the next 3 months, 38 percent say it will be 6-12 months before they do so.
- Disconnecting from the routine and stresses of home and connecting with new people, cultures, and ideas are primary reasons for travel in 2022.
- Purpose-driven travel remains paramount. Environmentally-friendly philosophies and practices and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage are top-of-mind concerns, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. And many are willing to pay more—56 percent of Gen Z and 46 percent of Millennials for eco-friendly tourism practices and 58 percent of Gen Z and 52 percent of Millennials for travel that preserves natural and cultural heritage.
Fall and Festive Travel
- When it comes to festive/holiday travel, many people are ready to make plans, even amid the uncertainty of traveling during a pandemic. In 2020, only 16 percent were comfortable planning and making adjustments later if need be, and now that’s up to 28 percent. And in 2020, people waiting to book until closer to their travel date was 22 percent; that’s now consistently down to 15 percent.
- In terms of the motive behind holiday travel, 71 percent will travel for vacation, while 21 percent will travel to see family and friends.
- Islands and beaches are topping travelers’ lists for holiday travel, followed by trips with a wellness component, an ocean cruise, and cities outside the U.S. 62 percent will travel to multiple destinations, while 38 percent will travel to a single destination. Notably, wellness-focused trips were the only category to see a year over year increase: 2021 (13 percent) versus 2022 (24 percent).
- Among the 18-34 age group, high-end travelers seek out (and are willing to pay more for) travel brands/experiences that focus on environmentally-friendly philosophies, those that contribute to local people and that also preserve natural and cultural heritage.
- Booking trends are indicative of a strong fall season during which volume will remain above 2019 levels.
- Across all countries: through July, hotel and in-destination leisure booking volume is at 157 percent of 2019 levels.
- While the United States still leads all countries by a significant margin in total hotel and on-site booking volume, Europe will continue to be a hugely popular regional destination market.
- Trips to the Caribbean islands seem to be gaining popularity through the rest of 2022 and into 2023.
Virtuoso® is the leading global travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisors in over 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with more than 2,200 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Normalized annual sales of (U.S.) $25–$30 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
Misty Belles, Virtuoso – Vice President, Global Public Relations
Alice Marshall Public Relations – Senior Account Director
