Typically viewed as a nuisance in the city, alpine villages view snow as the gift of all gifts from mother nature. For the big mountain resorts in the Colorado Rockies, significant snow storms represent cash falling from the skies.  If you count yourself among those wanting to hit the slopes and carve a few black diamonds before the warm weather arrives, there is no better time for a weekend getaway. Continue reading →

T.J. Walter

As we dip our toes back into travel after a year of social distancing, it may feel hard to decide where to go and what to do first. Does a beach vacation sound most appealing or would you prefer an urban getaway focused on shopping, dining, and culture? Perhaps an escape to the country and days of waking to birdsong, dining on farm fresh meals, and exploring small towns is the trip you are dreaming of.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula makes the process of picking a destination easier, as you can choose from all three of these holiday options in one place. It also offers the convenience of flying into and out of Cancun, with flights from more than a dozen American hubs. After you land, you just have to decide whether to drive south, to the beaches along the Riviera Maya; west, to the lively and charming capital of the state of Yucatan, Mérida; or into the countryside, for a stay at a sprawling hacienda reborn as a luxury hotel.

Escape to the Seashore

With its dramatic Maya ruins sitting atop a bluff overlooking the Caribbean and its small resorts strung along the sea, it’s not surprising that Tulum has become a favorite of those travelers looking for beach time in the winter but who aren’t interested in the mega-resorts of Cancun.

The plus of Tulum’s emergence as a destination has been the opening of new hotels and restaurants that have transformed what was once a sleepy backpacker destination into a decidedly stylish one.

Getting There: From Cancun it’s a straight shot south on a well-maintained highway. If you are driving, expect the journey to take between 90 minutes to two hours. There are also buses and shuttles, though renting a vehicle will give you the freedom to explore some nearby sites like the Sian Ka’an Biosphere and the Maya ruins at Coba, a much larger complex than the one in Tulum.

Where to Stay: Olas Tulum is a small B&B that has a very Tulum-like boho-chic atmosphere and attitude. A plus is that it is to the south of most of Tulum’s hotels—you can enjoy the quiet of the location for naps on the sand in the afternoon but when cocktail hour comes around it’s a short walk to Tulum’s other bars and restaurants.

Don’t Miss: Make sure to have at least one meal at Hartwood Tulum which helped lead Tulum’s transition from modest beach town to jet-setter destination. Chefs and owners Eric Werner and Mya Henry opened the restaurant in 2010 and it has made its way on to many “best-restaurant” lists thanks to dishes featuring farm-fresh produce from the Yucatan and seafood straight from the Caribbean in simple preparations that let the ingredients shine.

Country Living

Much of the Yucatan peninsula is dotted with haciendas that used to produce henequen (a fiber that is, in English, more commonly called sisal, after the port of Sisal where much of it was exported from). Sisal was essential to rope-making and huge fortunes were made growing the crop. The Mexican Revolution and, more importantly, the invention of nylon led to the bust of that boom though today many haciendas are enjoying second lives having been reborn as luxury hotels where you can spend days lounging by pools or visiting off-the-beaten path villages, convents, and Maya sites. You’ll fall asleep each night to the captivating sounds of the jungle wildlife at night.

Getting there: There are haciendas throughout the peninsula, though there tend to be more of them in the states of Yucatan and Campeche (on the northern and western sides of the peninsula—Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located, runs along its eastern side). You’ll want to rent a car if you intend to spend your days exploring the backroads, but most haciendas will happily arrange for transfers to their properties if you intend to spend your days relaxing on the grounds.

Chablé Yucatan

Where to Stay: Chablé Yucatan is the most luxurious of the reborn haciendas, though most accommodations there are in newly built free-standing casitas while the historic buildings house common areas, lounges, and restaurants. Hacienda Petac is an appealing smaller hacienda that is rented exclusively to one group at a time and can accommodate up to 14 guests. Marriott’s Luxury Collection includes five beautifully restored haciendas.

Don’t Miss: The Maya sites of Chichen Itza and Coba are world-famous, and the crowds at them are evidence of that. An advantage of a stay at a hacienda, however, is that it’s easier to visit some of the less-popular Maya sites. Uxmal, which is just over an hour south of Mérida, is one of the most magical of them. It is built in the so-called Puuc style which is known for being more decorative than other Maya styles with intricate carved geometric patterns and designs.

A City Escape

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatan (and the largest city on the Yucatan peninsula) has emerged in recent years as one of the most exciting cities in Mexico. It has long been known for its laidback pace and impressive collection of historic buildings spanning the 16^th to 19^th centuries (within Mexico, only Mexico City has a larger historic district). Now the city can also boast about its lively dining and shopping scene, supported by both a growing expat community and travelers who have discovered Mérida’s appeals.

Getting There: Mérida is roughly 3.5 hours from Cancun on a toll road. The colonial town of Valladolid and the Maya ruins at Chichen Itza are appealing stops en route. (It is also possible to fly to Mérida directly.)

Where to Stay: Mérida has an abundance of rental properties in historic homes that have been lovingly restored and you will want to check out the options on AirBnB and VRBO. If you prefer a hotel, the recently opened Wayam has a cool, contemporary style and also one of Mérida’s best new restaurants, Cuna, which serves delicious updated takes on Yucatecan cooking.

Don’t Miss: Mérida is not only a state capital but a culinary one too. It’s a place to sample both street food like the simple tacos served at stands at the Santiago Market (a small neighborhood market that is less intimidating than the central one) to the innovative Mexican cuisine of Picheta which overlooks Mérida’s cathedral and central square.

—John Newton, Founder, Signal Custom Content. (John previously worked as an editor at AFAR, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel+Leisure and has written travel stories for many other publications and websites.)

John Newton

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Organization (NOAA), the El Niño that is shaping up continues to intensify and is likely to be one of the strongest on record by the time it peaks this winter.

Continue reading →

Whit Cook

Whit Cook is the Founder/Publisher of GoodLife Report (GLR), a lifestyle website geared towards men and women who like unique products and experiences. He previously worked for Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado magazines, several technology start-ups, and is a freelance marketing professional.

www.goodlifereport.com

Now that the summer heat has given way to cooler temperatures, we can all enjoy the great outdoors without sweltering. Fall is the perfect time to spend an afternoon at the cider mill, go pumpkin picking for Halloween or hike up mountains. Peak foliage times in the Northeastern United States differ by state—Vermont peaks earlier than Connecticut—but generally the entire month of October is brilliant.  Continue reading →

Shandana Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is a Detroit native who lives in Berlin, Germany. She has written for a variety of national and international publications and sites including Condé Nast Traveler, Glamour, MetroLondon, SiIverkris, and Travel Supermarket. She lives for travel and exploring local restaurants.

Anyone who lives in New York City will tell you—fall and spring are the best times to visit. Spring brings a unique energy, unmatched except perhaps during the holidays. As the air warms and the trees bloom, the city’s vibrancy—quiet during much of winter—starts to reawaken. And fall? It’s magical. As the leaves change and the air cools, providing a welcome break from summer, New York transforms into something truly special.

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Staff

If you’re heading to the Monterey Peninsula to play golf (or watch the pros play), why not stick around after it’s over? Monterey County has a plethora of pleasures to offer from world-renowned golf courses to interesting restaurants to craggy terrain. Continue reading →

Shandana Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is a Detroit native who lives in Berlin, Germany. She has written for a variety of national and international publications and sites including Condé Nast Traveler, Glamour, MetroLondon, SiIverkris, and Travel Supermarket. She lives for travel and exploring local restaurants.

Napa Valley can stoke some excitement in people who visit for the first time. There is nothing wrong, after all, with the obligatory stretch limo, cellar tours and boisterous conversations with the winery folk.  Continue reading →

Whit Cook

Whit Cook is the Founder/Publisher of GoodLife Report (GLR), a lifestyle website geared towards men and women who like unique products and experiences. He previously worked for Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado magazines, several technology start-ups, and is a freelance marketing professional.

www.goodlifereport.com

Plush furniture, fine linens and access to not only beautiful beaches but some of the best farm-to-table cuisine on the East Coast. If this isn’t the Jersey Shore you’re acquainted with, then perhaps you’ve watched a bit too much television. When summer’s warmest weather arrives there is no better time to plan a weekend jaunt out of the sweltering city, and no better small resort to rest your head than The Virginia Hotel. Continue reading →

Chelsey Pieretti

Chelsey has been writing for GoodLife Report for over 10 years. She is a frequent blogger on multiple sites and was an editorial assistant for Shandana Durrani’s acclaimed travel book, “Day Trips from New York.”

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Maine, Quisisana Resort stands as a timeless treasure, welcoming guests with its serene ambiance and unparalleled hospitality. With its rich history dating back to 1880, this exquisite resort has evolved into a premier destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and relaxation.

Rich History

Quisisana Resort’s storied history is interwoven with the legacy of its founder, Dr. Ezekiel Holmes, a prominent physician who believed in the healing power of fresh air and the tranquility of nature. Established in 1880, the resort began as a health retreat, drawing guests seeking respite from the bustling city life. Over the years, it has retained its commitment to wellness, embracing the healing virtues of Maine’s pristine environment.

Enchanting Accommodations

Quisisana Resort offers an array of enchanting accommodations that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From cozy cottages nestled in the woods to elegant suites with stunning lake views, each room is meticulously designed to provide utmost comfort and relaxation. The resort’s timeless charm is complemented by modern amenities, ensuring a seamless and memorable stay for guests.

The Ultimate Recreational Haven

Quisisana Resort is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of recreational activities for every season. In the warmer months, guests can explore the crystal-clear waters of Kezar Lake through kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming. The resort’s private beach provides a serene spot for sunbathing or picnicking, while fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in search of trout or bass. Hiking trails crisscross the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Maine’s forests.

As the seasons change, Quisisana transforms into a winter wonderland. With its proximity to world-class ski resorts, guests can indulge in thrilling downhill skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country skiing. For a more leisurely experience, snowshoeing and ice fishing are popular options. After a day of adventure, guests can relax and warm up by the crackling fireplaces in the resort’s cozy lounges.

Wellness and Serenity

At Quisisana Resort, wellness is at the core of the guest experience. The resort boasts a fully equipped fitness center, where guests can maintain their exercise routines, and a heated indoor pool for relaxation and rejuvenation. The tranquil spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and facials, using natural and locally sourced ingredients.

Culinary Delights

The culinary offerings at Quisisana Resort are a gastronomic delight. The resort’s restaurant showcases a diverse menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including succulent seafood, farm-to-table vegetables, and delectable desserts. With a focus on seasonal flavors and expertly crafted dishes, guests are treated to an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the essence of Maine’s culinary heritage.

Quisisana Resort captivates visitors with its timeless charm, rich history, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Whether indulging in outdoor adventures, unwinding in luxurious accommodations, or embracing wellness through spa treatments, this enchanting retreat offers a truly immersive experience. As the seasons unfold, Quisisana transforms, revealing new delights and opportunities for exploration.

Staff

In the bustling heart of Mayfair, London, stands a true testament to refined elegance and unparalleled luxury—The Connaught Hotel. With its rich heritage, impeccable service, and unrivaled attention to detail, The Connaught has become synonymous with sophistication and has captured the hearts of discerning travelers from around the world. This iconic establishment offers a haven of tranquility and indulgence, making it a destination unlike any other in the vibrant city of London.

An Enduring Legacy

The Connaught Hotel has a storied history that dates back to 1815 when it was originally built as a private residence. Over the years, it has evolved into a symbol of timeless grandeur, attracting an elite clientele that includes royalty, celebrities, and influential figures. The hotel’s reputation for excellence has been carefully cultivated, and it continues to set the standard for luxury hospitality in London.

Timeless Elegance

Stepping into The Connaught is like entering a world of refined beauty and understated opulence. The hotel’s interior design seamlessly blends traditional British charm with contemporary sophistication. The public areas feature plush furnishings, exquisite artwork, and tasteful décor, creating an atmosphere of warmth and serenity. Every corner of the hotel reflects meticulous attention to detail, from the elegant corridors adorned with fresh flowers to the discreetly attentive staff who anticipate guests’ every need.

Exquisite Accommodations

The Connaught offers a range of luxurious accommodations, each meticulously designed to provide an oasis of comfort and tranquility. The rooms and suites exude an air of timeless elegance, with sumptuous fabrics, bespoke furnishings, and modern amenities seamlessly integrated into the classic design. Guests can expect the utmost privacy and personalized service, ensuring a truly unforgettable stay in the heart of London.

Culinary Excellence

One of the highlights of The Connaught is its extraordinary dining experiences. The hotel boasts several acclaimed restaurants, each offering a unique culinary journey. At Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, guests can savor exquisite French cuisine created by Michelin-starred chef Hélène Darroze. The elegant surroundings and impeccable service complement the extraordinary flavors and artistic presentation of the dishes. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, The Connaught Bar is a world-renowned destination for cocktail enthusiasts, where expert mixologists create innovative concoctions that push the boundaries of taste and presentation.

The Aman Spa

The Connaught Hotel takes pampering to new heights with its exclusive Aman Spa. Nestled within the hotel, this serene sanctuary offers a holistic approach to well-being, drawing inspiration from both Eastern and Western traditions. Guests can indulge in a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and rejuvenating therapies. The spa’s tranquil ambiance, coupled with the expertise of highly skilled therapists, ensures a blissful experience that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul.

Unparalleled Service

What truly sets The Connaught apart is its legendary service. From the moment guests step foot inside, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. The staff is dedicated to anticipating guests’ needs and providing personalized attention to ensure a flawless experience. Whether it’s arranging a private tour of London’s hidden gems, securing reservations at exclusive establishments, or simply delivering impeccable room service, the staff at The Connaught goes above and beyond to exceed expectations.

Mayfair’s Cultural Haven

Situated in Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious neighborhoods, The Connaught offers easy access to a wealth of cultural attractions. Guests can explore the nearby art galleries, high-end boutiques, and world-class theaters, immersing themselves in the vibrant pulse of the city. The hotel’s prime

Staff

Moxy is Marriott’s design brand for millennial travelers, but it has grown to become a favorite of all age groups thanks to its affordable approach to luxury. It may not have the largest guest rooms (that’s by design), but its public spaces focus on striking interiors and appealing entertainment that brings in the local community as much as its guest list.

The six New York Moxy hotels are a bit of a showpiece for their community-buzzed bars and restaurants. In other parts of the world, Moxy properties combine the front desk with the bar and create a 24/7 co-working and dining and gathering space.

At Moxy Lower East Side, guests may think they have entered one of New York’s most buzzing bar-scene hotels, but this is actually a popular mix of business and leisure travelers. The rooftop bar and lounge plus a lobby bar just adds to the scene. Marriott Bonvoy fans know about Moxy already and how this is one of the brand’s stand-out neighborhood gathering spots. For everyone else, here are five reasons to visit Moxy Lower East Side.

Lobby

Doormen swing open the glass doors across a bridge with two descending staircases on either side taking you down to the award-winning dining options here. If you continue forward, you are met with dazzling chandeliers and greenery dangling from the ceiling. It’s almost Alice in Wonderland magical until you reach the check-in stand where reality sets in. But, even then, the welcoming staff is so gracious on their laptops as they complete formalities you might not realize this is a hotel, rather a chic nightclub. During the day, many guests order coffee and work in the snazzy lobby space.

The hotel is located on Bowery Street and is adjacent to Chinatown, New York University and a slew of other interesting venues (downtown’s financial buzzers are not far away either) giving this middle-ground spot plenty of attitude and fun to enjoy. If you want to crowd-watch from the lobby or up on the rooftop, the energy is constant. The piano bar helps to draw people in and has become a fast-favorite in the neighborhood.

Rooftop

From this vantage point, the city is your oyster. While many rooftop bars in midtown Manhattan hotels dazzle, the magic is knowing that the view from afar is even more impressive. The entire skyline unfurls from this all-weather spot. Moxy Lower East Side knows that its top-floor spot is a go-to bullseye. You can count on weekends getting busy here with thumping music and patrons through the wee hours of the morning. On other nights, the venue is more subdued, but the magical views never change.

Design

Moxy is all about design, but its secondary focus is on price. That is, wants to win over the trendy younger generation who may not fork over for more expensive venues just yet. The brand is able to do this with smaller rooms (but it also has suites, too) that make great use of space. Think wall hooks, under-bed bag storage and desks that fold up and down with just one little handle. There are even rooms with bunk beds that work well for families, but even better for bachelor or bachelorette parties (or whatever else) with friend groups traveling together on a budget.

Another design point is that the vanity areas are often open to the room to minimize the space needed for the shower and toilet area. The design is not for everyone, especially if space and modesty are top of the list, but the price point of Moxy does not lie. It has been appealing to hotel developers and hotel guests aplenty.

Clever Promotions

Moxy is always looking for ways to stir up conversation and provide new ways for travelers to learn more about the destination and themselves. For example, Moxy and Sanctuary came up with a unique partnership that will last all year. Sanctuary creates astro-adventure guides that tap into astrocartography to help travelers find the ideal travel date, location and companion recommendations based on their particular sign and the network of Moxy hotels around the world.

There is also a special cocktail menu based on different astrological signs and a new cosmic twist on Moxy’s Bedtime Stories (short, one-minute stories to wind down your day with a smile or laugh). There are other events coming soon related to this new partnership.

Of course, Moxy is also part of the Marriott Bonvoy program, and members can earn and redeem points to use at other Moxy (and Marriott family hotels) around the world.

Dining

This hotel is drawing in the crowds like no one would have expected (and there are plenty of other chic restaurants and design hotels in the neighborhood). The more casual guests may settle for a house-made pastry or evening tipple in the piano bar here. But, those that live nearby swear by the Japanese restaurant Sake No Hana, part of Tao hospitality group (of Hakkasan fame).

In addition to several other bars, up on the rooftop, there is also a day and evening menu. Don’t expect a breakfast buffet here (there is a tasty a la carte menu though). This is the type of hotel where every meal has a story to tell (and at this property, the guests want to tell).

Pursuitist

Founded by Chris Parr, Pursuitist.com is Internationally recognized as one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel publishing brands. The award-winning, ad-free, not for profit site engages affluent connoisseurs with engaging content that speaks to their high-end interests.

Have you ever stayed at an impressive resort that, while teeming with the promise of pristine pools and soothing hot tubs, seems to be a bit lacking in any actual partakers? The offerings, sure, are plentiful, but the sauna and steam room in their world-class spa? Empty. This may sound problematic for their business, but in the efficiency-driven, “as-a-Service” economy we live in today, it also presents a smart opportunity for mutually beneficial partnership. Enter ResortPass, a service poised to connect locals and day trippers seeking relaxation with access to a partnering property’s all too available amenities.

Some might say the company has taken a page out of the Airbnb book by leveraging the under-utilized assets at resorts and selling them as an experience, for a fee. Well, the model is certainly working out for both parties. Launched in 2016—with Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Alba and “The Point’s Guy,” Brian Kelly, as early investors—ResortPass is starting to hit their stride this year. Not only have they grown their network significantly, but they also closed a $26 million “B” round this past November. They now partner with over 900 hotels and resorts around the world, all allowing users to enjoy luxury experiences on a day pass basis.

The price, you might be musing, is surely where the catch lies. Not necessarily, as it is more so reflective of the level of service and amenities offered, as well as the brand. The Four Seasons, for example, will likely cost you more than a Marriot. The range might be from $25-100 per day for a standard pass—more for daybeds and cabanas. The cost for children is less, if not free, depending on age.

It’s early days yet and hard to forecast the level of overall demand there will be for ResortPass, but I do have one prediction. The “stickiness” of this service will ultimately reside more with travelers than locals. According to Michael Wolf, CEO of ResortPass, the early data disagrees. So far, the majority of ResortPass’s users are locals who want to experience the amenities of hotels in their own or nearby cities. A staycation, or even “day”cation, as they say.

“Our local users never had the opportunity to access the hospitality industry locally,” says Wolf. “They thought they had to get on a plane to enjoy those sorts of amenities.”

To be fair, ResortPass does acknowledge all types of users, from locals to cruise ship passengers alike, and I’m sure they are targeting all sorts of people in various situations where the service would be compelling. Whether the local demographic remains their top revenue source is anyone’s guess, but I would wager that the true value of this service lies with a certain type of traveler staying at a certain type of place.

For example, guests staying at a boutique hotel—one that offers a terrific experience but without resort-level amenities—would seem to be likely customers. Vacationers staying with friends are another plausible group to appeal to, as they might still want a bit of pampering and that vacation vibe while they’re out of town. And then there is their ultimate customer, the ones where the value of ResortPass truly becomes apparent—and for me, it’s full circle back to Airbnb and its guests.

I love Airbnb. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t appreciate the service. They created a whole new segment of lodging at price-points that are generally more attractive than hotels, especially if you require multiple bedrooms. What Airbnb sorely lacks, however, is amenities. Sure, you can get a great pad with a pool, large kitchen and epic view of the ocean or mountains, but you cannot get the kind of facilities and social intangibles that luxury hotels and resorts offer. There is no way to spell a bustling hotel lobby, or expansive pools surrounded by chaises and cabanas, with dining and cocktail service at your fingertips.

And therein lies the true value of ResortPass. The best products and services are the ones that fill a void. It’s fine to build a better mouse trap and plenty of companies have made a living doing this. Even the most innovative companies in the world owe a lot of their success to products and services that already existed which they simply improved upon. Apple didn’t invent the smart phone; they just made it better. A lot better. But filling a void is the ultimate goal for most entrepreneurs. See Uber, Venmo and yes, Airbnb.

I think Airbnb would be wise to partner with—or dare I say, even purchase—ResortPass. It may start out as just an incremental supplement to their service, as it’s only useful if there is a qualifying resort nearby. Nonetheless, it would be a natural fit that could yield larger, more impactful results in the future. The Batman and Robin of travel disruptors, if you will.

ResortPass gets the GLR stamp of approval as a rising star in the resort space. Mark my words, they’re going places—and not just for the day.

Whit Cook

Whit Cook is the Founder/Publisher of GoodLife Report (GLR), a lifestyle website geared towards men and women who like unique products and experiences. He previously worked for Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado magazines, several technology start-ups, and is a freelance marketing professional.

www.goodlifereport.com

Earlier this year TravelPulse parsed research from San Francisco-based luggage storage company “Bounce” to come up with an interesting take on the most googled cities for travel. In case you are wondering, Bounce enables consumers to book short-term luggage storage and package retrieval at local businesses throughout the world. It’s like Uber for luggage/parcel storage, complete with an app and easy lock/unlock access. While their core business may not seem entirely germane to travel data (like google searches) they have a research division and are in a unique position to provide granular insight into the travel space.

For their part, TravelPulse is a highly respected publisher of travel industry news, including in-depth editorial and key supplier and destination information that helps travel agents stay on top of their game. So we like the combined effort behind this research and the way in which it is featured.

So what is the most googled travel destination?

Note: While the data collected by Bounce was compiled earlier this year, we don’t think much has likely changed since then and thus is still worthy of your attention.

So what does the data reveal? It should not come as a huge surprise…Miami is the most popular destination for travelers! At least from one metric.

According to the research from Bounce, “Miami is the most popular city in the world when it comes to travel, ranking first for Google searches related to flights, hotels and vacations in as many as eight countries across the globe.”

While we like the angle Bounce has taken here—ranking popularity based on the number of countries who searched for this destination the most—it is a bit specialized and does not give the total, aggregate number of searches. When it comes to overall searches, regardless of where these people reside, “Las Vegas is easily the most popular city destination with 9,688,600 searches worldwide for flights, hotels and vacations” over the past year.

Interesting facts and findings:

• Based on Bounce’s criteria for the most searched cities by specific countries, Miami finished 1^st, Dubai 2^nd, London and New York tied for 3^rd place, while Las Vegas finished 5^th.
• The data that Bounce collected is not just Google searches on cities. It is specific to “airfare, hotels and vacations,” thus directly tied to travel to these cities and not just general information.
• Dubai won the people of Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and Ireland in terms of most searches
• London was the most popular search for people from Greece, Sweden and Iceland
• New York won the people of France, Italy, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic

Our take away

It shouldn’t surprise anyone who travels frequently that Las Vegas and Miami received the most searches on google as both cities are uber popular right now and very popular for both vacationers and business travelers alike. Covid clearly slowed down the corporate outings in Las Vegas but that traffic is coming back in droves. And with a slew of new hotel casinos including the mega resort, “Resorts World”— the first integrated resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in over a decade—there are more options than ever for travelers to Sin City.

Meanwhile, Miami remains a favorite hot spot for both Americans and International travelers for obvious reasons. Beautiful beaches, great hotels and restaurants, a diverse international culture and great weather during the winter months—when most of the US is freezing—are just a few of the allures.

Our coverage of Miami and Las Vegas

Riding the Natural Vibes of 1 Hotel South Beach

The Miami Beach EDITION—Five Things I Loved and Two I Did Not

Best Hotel Bars in Miami

Turnberry Isle, Miami—Something for Everyone

Las Vegas Refresh

The Best of Las Vegas—Old and New

Healthy Travel Means Business

Staff

Turks & Caicos has been a hot travel destination for years, but more recently, family-friendly resorts – those with activities for parents and kids to enjoy separately – have been popping up along its beautiful beaches, making the locale more popular than ever.

Continue reading →

Staff

If you think you’ve seen one Caribbean island you’ve seen them all, think again. Although popular spots like St. Johns and Antigua are beautiful, the tourist hordes have made finding a peaceful stretch of beach nigh on impossible. For blue skies, quieter beaches and hospitable locals, head to Anguilla. Continue reading →

Shandana Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is a Detroit native who lives in Berlin, Germany. She has written for a variety of national and international publications and sites including Condé Nast Traveler, Glamour, MetroLondon, SiIverkris, and Travel Supermarket. She lives for travel and exploring local restaurants.

Pursuitist presents our review of Nobu Hotel Chicago, one of the best new luxury hotels in Chicago, curated by renown luxury travel expert Christopher Parr. The new Nobu Hotel Chicago has 115 exceptionally designed guest rooms and suites plus a fitness center, indoor pool and Nobu Restaurant, bar, and the Rooftop at Nobu Hotel Chicago.

Open since July, 2020, Nobu Hotel Chicago is a serene oasis of Japanese minimalism located in the busy Fulton Market District. The 115-room hotel, which has quickly become one of the top 5 luxury hotels in Chicago, engages the senses from the second you step in – and is brought to life through its architecture, which playfully blends elements of old world Japanese art and new world utilitarian, creating a sense of accessible sophistication.

With tastefully appointed guest rooms and suites, a signature Nobu Restaurant, and the new-concept Rooftop at Nobu, Nobu Hotel Chicago is the perfect destination for a stylish stay in one of the Windy City’s culinary hubs.

Rooms & Design

The rooms and suites are quite obviously Japanese-influenced, equal parts Zen and ultra-modern post-industrial — check out the cedar tubs in the suites — and they’re as luxurious as they are stylish, with plush beds custom-designed for Nobu and upscale conveniences like Nespresso machines and 60-inch smart TVs.

Dining

True culinary immersion is evident with a 10,000 square-feet Nobu Restaurant — and Rooftop at Nobu Hotel Chicago — complete with elegant indoor and outdoor bar space overlooking Randolph Street’s “Restaurant Row.”

The Rooftop at Nobu Hotel Chicago culinary scene is an elegant, flawless experience. Not only do you get a breathtaking view of the Chicago skyline, you are surrounded by impeccable service and beautiful architrave design, food and drink.

Just a few blocks from Nobu Hotel Chicago, guests can get a full gastronomic experience going from sushi bar to sports bar, bakery to brewery, wine tasting to taquería, or by checking out the nearby Chicago French Market, the city’s only year-round, indoor marketplace.

Meeting and Events

The hotel plays host to a 3,320 square-feet of multi-use suite space available for private social functions and corporate events.

Wellness

A rejuvenating 2,800 square-feet facility featuring a state-of-the art fitness center with Technogym equipment.

Final Word

During your stay at Nobu Chicago, count on impressive skyline views; an indoor tranquility pool; calming, elegant decor; acclaimed dining at Nobu Chicago including a stone sushi bar; and the 11th-floor Rooftop at Nobu Hotel Chicago for inspiring views of the city, delicate bites and tasty cocktails. In-room amenities include Dyson hairdryers, yoga mats, steamers and exclusive Nobu beds. A stay at Nobu Hotel Chicago will make it feel like you actually got to transcend into another land, where gratitude meets luxury.

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission.

Pursuitist

Founded by Chris Parr, Pursuitist.com is Internationally recognized as one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel publishing brands. The award-winning, ad-free, not for profit site engages affluent connoisseurs with engaging content that speaks to their high-end interests.

Located in San Francisco’s bustling, entrepreneurial-laden SOMA district, The St. Regis San Francisco affords guests magnificent views of the San Francisco cityscape and quick access to the city’s business hub. Rooms feature stylish contemporary decor in creams and dark woods, with standard features such as flat-screen TVs, crisp Pratesi linens and deep bathtubs.  

Special Perks

Known for their timeless hospitality and sophistication this legendary San Francisco hotel is also known for their signature Butler services, a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis experience for more than one hundred years.  

The hotel is also home to Remède Spa San Francisco, a Forbes Travel Guide ranked four-star spa in San Francisco and The St. Regis Grill which serves modern California cuisine in a contemporary setting.

Staff

I’m intrigued by the fashionable buzzwords in “experiential travel.” “Isn’t all travel based on experience?” I wondered before my recent trip to Bermuda. My purpose? To experience the island like a native by celebrating the Cup Match Cricket Festival, a two-day public holiday held every August. Continue reading →

Linda K. Nathan

While booking a summer rental has its merits, there is something about beach resorts—convenience, amenities and hospitality to name a few perks—that can make it much easier than hassling with the research and paperwork normally associated with summer rentals. Here are 6 resorts in New England that are sure to satiate your summer travel cravings, without any hassles. 

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Staff

While relaxing vacations certainly have their virtues—think pina coladas on a white sand beach, or a deep tissue massage at a desert spa—many people prefer a daily dose of action and adventure on their vacations. No, I’m not talking about golf, or tennis or long walks on the beach. I’m talking about real activities and adventure—perhaps even a little danger.

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Whit Cook

Whit Cook is the Founder/Publisher of GoodLife Report (GLR), a lifestyle website geared towards men and women who like unique products and experiences. He previously worked for Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado magazines, several technology start-ups, and is a freelance marketing professional.

www.goodlifereport.com

Ian Schrager soared to fame in the 1970s as the co-founder of the infamous Studio 54 in New York City. Since then, the entrepreneur has served as a trailblazer in the hospitality industry.

By fusing his knowledge of pop culture and nightlife with time-tested traditions of accommodation, Schrager practically invented the concept of the boutique hotel in the mid-’80s.

Part of his ongoing EDITION Hotels brand, Schrager’s The London EDITION, can be found in London’s Fitzrovia neighborhood, a hip locale once favored by the likes of authors Virginia Woolf and George Bernard Shaw. True to the hotel brand’s overall allure, The London EDITION combines the best in modern sensibility with exceptional service and innovative features.

The historic landmark that now houses London EDITION was once the home of the Berners Hotel. Schrager’s team sought to maintain the traditional charm of the building while adding updated design elements into the mix. The end result transcends time, offering echoes from its past and visions of its future. Just past the entrance, guests are greeted by “Portal,” a 3D digital piece crafted by Korean artist Chul Hyun Ahn. Then mere feet away? There’s the reception area, which contains a tapestry, itself an elegant recreation of one that once belonged to King Louis XV of France.

At London EDITION, guests will also find a haven that offers majestic open spaces and luxuriously intimate rooms along with a restaurant, a fitness facility and two lounges. The hotel’s Lobby Bar looks like something that might have been dreamed up by the elusive aliens from 2001: A Space Odyssey. Green velvet couches linger beneath painstakingly restored interiors worthy of the Palace of Versailles. A portrait hangs over a marble fireplace across from a blackened steel bar, which rests besides four imposing antique mirrors. The Elderflower Power Sour, one the lounge’s signature cocktails, is definitely out of this world.

Berners Tavern, the hotel’s restaurant, is another jaw-dropper. Its intimate tables flow into a magnificent bar with golden shelves of bottles juxtaposed between rows of framed paintings and photographs. The menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner items that range from the savory to the sweet. Try one of the tavern’s grass-fed British steaks or the pan braised Atlantic halibut.

Berners Tavern

There’s also the reservations-only Punch Room, an oak-paneled den that recalls London’s private clubs or a study in a 19th century manor house. As you may have guessed, cocktails rule here. Guests can order from a list of eight exquisitely mixed drinks that include gin-infused punch with oak moss. The lounge often features impromptu performances and a curated music selection that includes ragtime, blues, vintage soul and additional genres.

Since its debut, and with good reason, London Edition has landed in the pages of Travel + Leisure, GQ and The Wall Street Journal. In terms of uniqueness and sophistication, Schrager’s most recent vision knows no equal.

Brandon Hartley / Staff

Elegant and upscale with a decidedly European feel, the NoMad Hotel—a design standout in it’s own right—is the crown jewel of the NoMad neighborhood. Housed in a turn-of-the-century Beaux Arts building with interiors by French designer Jacques Garcia and world-class dining and drinking from Daniel Hum and company (Eleven Madison), The Nomad has it all.

The rooms are cozy but elegantly appointed, featuring large beds with studded leather headboards, velvet tapestries, antique Heriz rugs, and free-standing clawfoot bathtubs. Throw in a breathtaking private rooftop, a Maison Kitsuné and the occasional cocktailed magic show starring Dan White, and there’s little reason to even leave the premises.

Perhaps our favorite feature? The fully curated, two-level library bar, connected by an original spiral staircase imported from the South of France. Guests can lounge throughout the day on custom-made furnishings and enjoy light fare and finger foods which are served alongside coffee, tea, wine and cocktails. An eclectic literary collection is available, featuring extensive volumes on such wide-ranging topics as The History of New York, Music, and Cocktails and Spirits. And if you’re feeling famished you can order off the regular menu, which includes their signature chicken for two—a whole chicken stuffed with foie gras (plus one optional).

1170 Broadway, New York, NY 10001

Shandana Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is a Detroit native who lives in Berlin, Germany. She has written for a variety of national and international publications and sites including Condé Nast Traveler, Glamour, MetroLondon, SiIverkris, and Travel Supermarket. She lives for travel and exploring local restaurants.

Autumn can be a tricky season in Barcelona. The phrase “the rains in Spain fall gently on the plain” isn’t a misnomer and sometimes “gently” is a vast understatement. The weather tends to fluctuate between heavy rains and periods of sun that make Barcelona glow like a mythical lost city of gold. Usually by September, thunderstorms begin to drift in off the Mediterranean Sea, pounding the pavement along La Rambla.

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Brandon Hartley / Staff

Once home to a Garment District hat factory, the Refinery Hotel maintains its industrial aesthetic and fashion heritage with an updated sense of luxury. The decor is sleek and modern, yet inviting and comfortable. The location is convenient, and just steps from Bryant Park.

Drawing inspiration from their storied past, each of the spacious rooms at Refinery Hotel feature industrial accents such as 12-foot ceilings and distressed hardwood floors. While the 197 rooms call attention to the Colony Arcade’s early life as a hat factory, modern amenities like free WiFi, Noir bath products, and a mini bar stocked with Dean & DeLuca gourmet foods and local Hudson whiskey provide luxurious comforts.  

Serving breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner and cocktails in a nostalgic atmosphere, Parker & Quinn, The Refinery’s main restaurant, features classic design touches from the building’s early life as a working factory. Executive Chef Jeff Haskell takes a straightforward and rustic approach in his kitchen, relying on high-quality and locally sourced ingredients to produce balanced, approachable American dishes.  

The Refinery Rooftop, however, is the crowning jewel of the space; a rooftop bar and lounge featuring over 3,500-square feet of cinematic views of the Manhattan skyline and Empire State Building. A cozy interior space is complete with fireplace, water feature, and wooden ceilings constructed out of wood salvaged from the original building’s water tank. An expansive indoor/outdoor space capped by a retractable glass roof, an outdoor terrace with porch swings, and spectacular city views from every direction make the Refinery Rooftop one of the most dynamic and tasteful (if not a bit lavish) rooftops in the city.  

Lunch menu favorites on the Rooftop include Seared Yellowfin Tuna, Grilled Hanger Steak Flatbread and the Little Gem Caesar salad with watermelon radish and frico. At night, lively crowds gathers for signature cocktails developed by In Good Company mixologists with a focus on natural ingredients paired in surprising and refreshing combinations.

63 West 38th Street New York, NY 10002

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“With Los Angeles experiencing its largest downtown development boom in nearly a century, we believe 2022 is the right time to introduce such a dynamic hotel and exciting development to this cultural epicenter,” said Danny Hughes, executive vice president and president, Americas, Hilton. “We’re thrilled to continue to expand Conrad’s footprint in the Americas and have the opportunity to bring this empowered and design-forward brand to a new market.”

 

 

 

“The Grand LA is thrilled to host Hilton’s first Conrad property in California,” said Rick Vogel, senior vice president at Related Companies. “Conrad is one of Hilton’s high luxury brands for the Epicurean traveler in search of culture, arts and dining, which is aligned with The Grand LA’s landmark destination as the epicenter for arts and culture in LA. We look forward to welcoming Conrad Los Angeles’s first guests when The Grand LA opens in 2022.”

 

 

For more information, please visithttps://newsroom.hilton.com/conrad.

 

Pursuitist

Founded by Chris Parr, Pursuitist.com is Internationally recognized as one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel publishing brands. The award-winning, ad-free, not for profit site engages affluent connoisseurs with engaging content that speaks to their high-end interests.

An architectural gem hailed for its iconic nine-story atrium and pyramidal skylight, The Beekman unites some of the world’s greatest talent, including the sophisticated design of Martin Brudnizki and the culinary cachet of restaurateur and chef Tom Colicchio. Continue reading →

Whit Cook

Whit Cook is the Founder/Publisher of GoodLife Report (GLR), a lifestyle website geared towards men and women who like unique products and experiences. He previously worked for Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado magazines, several technology start-ups, and is a freelance marketing professional.

www.goodlifereport.com