Dine and Unwind at Nobu Hotel Chicago

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.

Nobu Hotel Chicago Review
Inspired by Kintsugi, a traditional Japanese process that uses gold to glue broken porcelain, the Nobu Hotel Chicago lobby features a brass sculpture that “glues” the deep indigo walls together.

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.

Business and Pleasure at San Francisco’s St. Regis

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.  

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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.  

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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.

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Bermuda Like a Native

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

Venice Beach—With Kids?

Fifi+Hop’s Corey Cook takes us to energetic Venice Beach which, despite it’s edginess, can be a great place to take kids. You just need to know where to go.

Some may look at the title of this post – Venice Beach with Kids – with speculation, but Venice was actually my girls’ self-proclaimed favorite part of our L.A. family vacation. They loved it. This post is all about things to do in Venice with kids, and why it should be on every family’s L.A. must-see list.

Venice Beach with Kids

 

Venice, CA, bohemian in spirit, has always been the funkier side of town, filled with eclectic shops and people, restaurants, street entertainers, and, in general, an off-beat vibe all its own. It’s never really had a reputation as a family-oriented kind of hood. Yet it’s this colorfulness of Venice which is exactly why I wanted to take my kids – all the action and eye-candy, I knew, would entertain them for hours.

 

We decided to allot 1 day in Venice, out of our 5 days. How did we go about planning our 1 day in Venice itinerary? I knew just who I wanted to show us around – my blogging friend Hilary from the blog HilaryStyle. She is the eyes and ears of L.A. and would be the perfect person to show my kids everything that makes Venice, Venice.

 

Venice Beach with Kids, HilaryStyle and mePin this image on Pinterest

 

Hilary and Me!

Hilary was on board for our visit, and then some. We covered it all, and by the end of the day my girls were reeling from all the fun they had. Here’s all the fun things to do in Venice Beach with kids. (Tip: we went first thing in the morning around 9:30, which was a perfect time to start our day, as there were hardly any crowds and it was very manageable with the kids).

WALK ALONG THE VENICE BOARDWALK (AKA OCEAN FRONT WALK)
Venice Beach with kids, walk along the Venice Boardwalk

 

The famous Venice Boardwalk spans about 1 ½ miles, with beautiful, white sand and the Pacific Ocean on one side, and funky storefronts and eateries on the other. Whatever bric-a-brac shops you can think of, the Ocean Front Walk has: souvenirs, sunglasses, surf and skate shops, t-shirts, tattoos, etc. My girls got their L.A. souvenirs here, in the form of sweatshirts, and have been wearing them ever since. Both say Venice Beach in different patterns, and they think they are the coolest girls in town when they wear them!

We walked for a while along the path, and Hilary pointed out all the other interesting things to see that make Venice the happening place it is. We saw people biking, rollerblading, playing paddle tennis, which are some of the activities you can do while you’re there (though we did not). And then there is of course Muscle Beach, an iconic part of the boardwalk where all the body builders work out. This is where Gold’s Gym got its start, begun by 70’s and 80’s superstar body builder, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

 

Later in our walk the girls got henna tattoos, which was a big hit – there are tattoo shops, fortune tellers and other off-beat things like that scattered all over the boardwalk. As well as restaurants – we ate at Wee Chippy at the recommendation of Hilary as having the best fries anywhere, and I have to say, she was right! In general, the Venice Boardwalk has an energy that appeals to any age, and is just plain FUN.

 

WATCH THE SKATEBOARDERS AT VENICE SKATE PARK
Venice Beach with kids, Venice Skate Park

Venice Skate Park is truly an amazing skate park, and definitely worth a visit. If you’re like us then you will love watching all the skate boarders do their tricks. The boarders span all ages, and you can see older men as much as younger kids skate about. It’s a lot of fun for the kids, and it can take up as much or little time as you want it to.

CHECK OUT ALL THE STREET ART AND WALL MURALS
Looking at the Venice Beach street art with kidsPin this image on Pinterest

 

Venice Beach wall mural

Venice is known for its abundance of street art, and seeing as Hilary is the street art expert, she showed us mural after mural, art piece after art piece, all throughout Venice. I’ll get to some of these places below, but we saw street art in many of the side streets off of the boardwalk, on our way over to the canals, and along Abbot Kinney Boulevard. There are wall murals everywhere, some I would have probably walked right by had it not been for them being pointed out – so make sure to keep your eyes open and on the look-out. They are colorful and whimsical and great fun for the kids to pose in front of for vaca pics.

 

Venice Art Walls with kidsPin this image on Pinterest

One of the highlights of our day in Venice was making some street art/ graffiti of our own! Hilary brought cans of paint with her, which the kids sprayed out on the beach. There is a designated area called the Venice Art Walls where the public can spray paint themselves, and the kids went to town – a great, unique activity that they will always remember!

 

WATCH THE STREET PERFORMERS
Watching the street performers and dancers on Venice Beach

We’re from New York, and whenever there are street performers doing their thing (always) in the subway, on the streets, Union Square, Times Square, wherever, we like to check them out. The girls love watching their shows. Venice is no stranger to street performers so we of course had to see them too. They are a big part of the chemistry that makes up Venice, with a contagious energy that you can’t help but feel a part of. Until they want you to join the show! We watched one group do their break dance, gymnastic stunts, etc. until they started to head our way to get the kids to participate. We immediately high-tailed it, but up until then it was a lot of fun for the kids, with a huge crowd getting into it.

 

WALK ALONG THE VENICE CANALS
Walking along the Venice Canals in Venice Beach, CA

It is no coincidence that the “Venice of America” has the same name as its Italian counterpart. Venice was founded by millionaire developer Abbot Kinney and modeled after his favorite European city, Venice. In the early 1900’s the canals that we see today used to be wetlands, and the perfect spot to build canals. Today (especially after a major renovation project completed in the 90’s), they are one of L.A.’s most unique neighborhoods and so much fun to walk around. I really enjoy walking along the canals and over the bridges, and so did my kids.

 

Giant Unicorn float in the Venice Beach canals in Venice Beach, CAPin this image on Pinterest

 

With the renovation came many newly built, modern homes, and looking at the houses is just as much a part of the appeal. So many of the city’s beautiful homes are located in the Venice Canals. We particularly liked looking at all the different boats home owners had, from canoes to kayaks to unicorn rafts!

STROLL ABBOT KINNEY BOULEVARD

Checking out the wall murals in Abbot Kinney in VenicePin this image on Pinterest

 

Having fun at Avatar Nation in Abbot Kinney in Venice Beach           

 

Perhaps the chicest part of L.A., Abbot Kinney Blvd. is filled with Boho fashion stores, home design shops, fabulous restaurants and an overall trendy vibe. You can’t go to Venice without hitting Abbot Kinney. What’s in it for the kids? Good question – it’s mostly for adults. But for the adults who are visiting with their kids and don’t want to miss out, there are some gems to take the kids. We went to Salt n Straw ice cream, which has amazing, unique flavors and which the kids loved. We found plenty of street art to take pics of them with, and we found fun stores to take them in too – one of them being Avatar Nation. The kids played ping pong in the back, it’s full of bright colors, and they loved it. It was a welcome respite for us adults too to take a break and let the kids play.

6 New England Beach Resorts to Stay at This Summer

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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Nearly Nantucket

The secret that used to be Nantucket has long been out. Each summer, the island receives an increasing influx of tourists in the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day who come to experience this unique place. Outside that time period, though, Nantucket is a much different world. In fact, a long weekend in mid-May may be the perfect time to experience the real Nantucket.

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3 Hitter Hotel Suites in Miami

Pursuitist takes us inside 3 luxe suites in Miami Beach.

 

Faena Suite at Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Faena Hotel Miami Beach is set on a gorgeous stretch of pristine white sand beach, and the 169 rooms suites and 13 penthouse residences have all the Art Deco glamour of the 1950s.

 

 

 

 

The 4,515 sq. ft. Faena Suite showcases panoramic ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows, a color palette of reds and blues alongside lush velvet and bold prints, and four bedrooms, four full bathrooms, two half-bathrooms, furnished oceanfront balconies, a full kitchen, and an elegant living room.

 

 

 

 

Faena Hotel Miami Beach is also in an exclusive partnership with Red Bull for the Formula 1 race and will be the official Red Bull Guest House for Miami’s Formula 1 Grand Prix from May 5 – 9 2022. Guests who book four nights or more in a Premier Oceanfront One-Bedroom Suite or higher will enjoy access to specially curated events, DJ performances, and access to the official Red Bull Hospitality Suite offering the best views of the track.

 

 

 

Lanai Oceanfront King Suite at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is known for glamour, allure, and luxe amenities. Located on Miami Beach, the hotel is zen-like with spacious and warm ocean color palettes throughout the hotel. The 1,100 sq ft Lanai Oceanfront King Suite is the perfect indoor/outdoor accommodation for the traveler seeking luxury, stunning views, and light-filled space . The expansive balcony provides an outdoor escape, and the spacious living areas and magnificent amenities include a full marble bathroom with plush terry robes to a large living and dining space ideal for entertaining and relaxing to the divine standalone tub, no detail has been overlooked.

 

 

 

Palace Suite at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort

The stunning Palace Suite located on the 23rd floor of course offers panromantic views from four 210 sq ft balconies—three with chaise lounges, the other with a dining table for 10—accessible via sliding glass doors that let in ample daylight.

The  4 bedroom, 4 bathroom suite boasts an expansive living area boasting marble floors, a sleek table that seats four, as well as two large sofas. A well-equipped kitchenette and a glass dining table that can host meals for eight guests under modern pendant lights. State-of-the-art technology includes a wall-mounted 50-inch flat-screen TV in each living room and bedroom and a tablet that controls temperature, lighting, shades, and music.  All guests have access to St. Regis’s signature butler service.

 

Best Hotels for Active Travelers

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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Why ME Cabo Should Be On Your Travel List for 2022

Well-known as a chic, party-themed hotel, ME Cabo reopened in the fall of 2021 after a complete transformation. The weekend of the Day of the Dead, one of Mexico’s biggest holidays of the year was the rebirth of this popular destination. Drawing scores of bikini-clad, well-heeled travelers from the west coast, all over Mexico and a growing number from the rest of the United States, ME Cabo opened its doors again and is ready to impress after investing over $10 million in its total redesign. These are the five top reasons why the seaside ME Cabo resort should be on the bucket list for every Mexico-bound reveler.

The location

 

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Within walking distance of town, this resort doubles down on the nightlife and fun-in-the-sun vibe. Not only are you in perfect view of the famous El Arco from much of the resort, but you can be shopping, “cheersing” or boating just minutes after leaving the hotel. It may be hard to pull yourself away from the resort’s own beautiful stretch of beach, oceanfront pool and bevy of highly celebrated restaurants though.

 

The resort sits at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, and during the winter months, it is possible to see whales frolicking offshore. While the beaches are public, the resort does have a roped-off section with private chairs and umbrellas where guests can relax uninterrupted. The water is warm (this is Los Cabos’ only swimmable beach), and servers circle around to take orders from the nearby bar.

The party vibe

 

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This is not the kind of place you come to for a quiet nap by the pool with cucumbers over your eyes. And the guest list here knows that. The upscale crowd here seeks out the party vibe making nightlife part of their daily routine, too. The rates here prohibit the Spring Break crowd from coming to the resort meaning it is ready and waiting for the often young, elite and chic crowds of Mexico City and Los Angeles.

 

 

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As one of Meliá Hotels International’s brands, ME hotels are known globally for their sophisticated and fashionable party spirit. By the pool, dancers shimmy and shake from morning to night on pedestals as guests sip fruity cocktails or chilled Mexican beer. Clubby music emanates from speakers morning to night, and it is hard not to wake up in a good mood here. Even the hotel’s top suite has its own DJ booth for those that want to try their hand at mixing music. Poolside musicians perform throughout the day to entertain the crowd including jazz-style violinists and saxophonists.

 

A swim-up bar complements the roving pool servers, and visiting DJs often entertain at the beach club. The same thumping music continues in many of the bars and restaurants keeping the party mood alive throughout the day. It’s the kind of young and hip party place that is designed to impress.

This resort is not a mecca for conferences, but it does draw plenty of social events and weddings that take advantage of the beach club platform and pool area for parties.

Headline-worthy food and beverage

 

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Rosa Negra, famed for its numerous dining outlets in Mexico, is at the helm of the food and beverage experience here. It is responsible for the four dining and drinking outlets here, each with a focus to serve Latin American flavors using local ingredients.

 

Confessions Skybar & Tapas serves light bites of mostly Spanish fare with a mix of meat, seafood and veggie options. Arrive before sunset to catch the beautiful views, but once the sun goes down, the lights turn up for a DJ-fueled party atmosphere with coastal breezes. Dress to impress up here.

 

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Expect Thai, Chinese and Japanese fare at Funky Geisha while Mamazzita Mexican Soul serves three meals a day focused on traditional Mexican fare. Like the pool, musicians and entertainers perform throughout the space as guests dine on beautifully presented dishes. The Rosa Negra affiliation has brought tremendous buzz among foodies and from around the country to the resort. Don’t miss the fruit and grain bowls and chilaquiles at breakfast, which luckily serves until late.

 

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At Taboo Beach Club, Mediterranean fare is the go-to option with everything from Greek-style rack of lamb to healthy platters of vegetables and chilled gazpacho. The outdoor setting is meant to feel like you’re at the beach on a Greek island or Turkish cafe.

 

The redesigned rooms

 

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Perhaps the highlight of a stay here is the quiet spot you have to seek respite after a day partying by the pool or dancing on the beach. If you had stayed here before, you will hardly recognize the new look of the guest rooms. Polished tile floors and white-washed walls show off minimalist design with the occasional pops of color in the Mexican art and design pieces. Throughout the hotel, regional touches in Mexican art and design abound.

 

 

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The bedding features chic, yet unpretentious, bespoke bedding with power and USB outlets on either side of the bed. I particularly like how the bed is positioned to maximize the window views in many rooms. Open-plan bathrooms continue the edgy design with vanities stocked with towels and C.O. Bigelow toiletries. Separate marble rain shower and water closet sections make the entire bathroom and dressing area feel more spacious. Built-in luggage racks above drawers are another well-thought-out touch.

 

 

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Minibars (which the hotel calls “maxibars”) are stocked with regional Mexican products, but all rooms come with complimentary Evian bottled water. Suites add separate living room areas with day beds and Nespresso machines. There is a variety of suite types, some of which have outdoor whirlpools on the balcony and the most up-front-and-personal views of El Arco. Guests in the ME+ Suite enjoy a pre-reserved day bed at Taboo Beach Club each day of their stay.

 

The spa

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The hotel’s redesigned lobby
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With all of that partying, your body deserves a touch of pampering in between the ruckus. The spa is tucked away into a corner of the resort as if it were an afterthought, but once you pass through the changing rooms, you realize there is much more than meets the eye.

Grab a glass of chlorophyll water and head for the relaxation areas to feel the ocean breeze in the shade. Splashing waterfalls bring you into another world as you wait for your treatment. On the menu are facials, massages and medical treatments from a well-trained staff.

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The design details around the resort are beautiful.

In addition to sauna and steam room areas, there’s also a modern fitness center with the latest workout equipment, stacks of towels and a fridge stocked with chilled bottled water. It’s clear that many of those parading around the pool have spent at least some time in the gym or spa. For most of us though, the views and food are what clinches the deal when considering a top resort for a trip to famous Cabo.

Hunkering Down at The Parker Palm Springs

The Parker (sister hotel to Le Parker Meridien in New York) mixes casual, old school “Cali” with a bright, modern, yet minimalist facade. In addition to their signature restaurant, Mister Parker’s, the hotel houses Minibar, a retro cocktail lounge with light snacks, and Norma’s, an all-day diner. The centerpiece of the 13-acre property is the legendary pool. Towel claims start at the crack of dawn, so be sure to mark your chair early. A second, smaller salt-water pool is quieter and has an accompanying whirlpool.

 

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Adjacent to the pool is the Lemonade Stand where you can cool off and quench your thirst with a lemonade made from fresh SoCal lemons. And of course “adult beverage” lemonades are available as well. The parker also offers a 16,500-square-foot spa, lawn croquet, pétanque, golf and tennis.

 

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If the afternoon libation leaves you wanting more in the relaxation department, head to the Palm Springs Yacht Club (PSYC). A yacht club in the middle of the desert you ask? While the spa — which is open to the public — offers some serious pampering, it’s the sort of luxury experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

 

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Dining out in downtown Palm Springs certainly has it’s place, but The Parker happens to be home to Mister Parker’s—a classic in it’s own right that can easily persuade guests into staying put. Beyond the velvet curtain entrance is a dining area that is more gentleman’s club than restaurant, with dark-wood paneling, a mirrored ceiling, and seductive artwork that begs for oysters and a Martini. The modern French/continental cuisine fits the décor and overall vibe with dressed up favorites like braised wagyu short rib, pistachio-crusted rack of lamb and duck confit with truffled potatoes. The dark, velvety, Palm Springs-of-old feel that Mister Parker’s exudes is exactly what the doctor ordered after a long day in the sun.

 

4200 E Palm Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA 92264
760.770.5000

The London EDITION Hotel

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Elegance and Opulence in NoMad

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

Fall Into Barcelona

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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Yucatan Three Ways

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.

 

God of Winds Temple, Tulum, Mexico (Shutterstock)

 

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

 

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.

 

Uxmal Pyramid

 

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 16th to 19th 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.)

Guilermina Restaurant, Merida

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.

Cuna Restaurant at Wayam (Photo: Orbitz)

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.)

A Midtown Mainstay for the Fashion Forward Traveler

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

Conrad Hotel & Resorts Comes to Los Angeles

Conrad Hotels & Resorts will be opening its first hotel in California in 2022. A part of Hilton’s luxury hotel brands, Conrad announced its debut in California with the signing of Conrad Los Angeles at The Grand LA, designed by Frank Gehry and located in downtown Los Angeles.

 

Downtown LA

 

“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.”

 

 

Downtown LA

 

The 28-story Conrad Los Angeles is expected to open in 2022 and will include 305 boldly designed modern guest rooms, a spa, fitness center, elevated indoor/outdoor lobby with sweeping views of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and a 16,000 sq. ft. rooftop terrace complete with a private pool deck overlooking bustling downtown Los Angeles. All amenities are set within the design-forward, 24-7 destination of The Grand LA.

 

POOL

 

The Grand LA will include 176,000 square feet of retail and dining space, more than 400 residences, and a landscaped public plaza that will host free arts programming throughout the year, including live concerts. Within walking distance of the Conrad include The Broad, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Museum of Contemporary Art, Grand Park, Colburn School, and The Music Center. A part of The Grand Avenue Project, the public-private partnership with the Los Angeles Grand Avenue Authority aims to revitalize downtown LA’s culture and showcase great public spaces with world-class architecture.

 

“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.”

 

 

rooftop

 

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

 

The Beekman Hotel

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

Jimmy Buffet Comes To the Island of Manhattan

The newest Margaritaville Resort recently opened on an entirely different kind of island… the island of Manhattan!

 

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Margaritaville Resort Times Square, the newest addition to the Margaritaville Lodging portfolio, is now open to the public. This 32-story laid back lounge-y resort destination sits smack in the middle of NYC’s hustle and bustle, truly transporting guests to an island oasis in the middle of Manhattan.

 

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You can still nibble on a sponge cake and watch the sun bake from Margaritaville Resort Times Square’s 234 guest rooms, five restaurants and bars, year-round outdoor heated pool, and street-level Margaritaville retail store.

“The resort brings paradise to the island of Manhattan and offers something for everyone from families to happy hour with friends,” says Kori Yoran, General Manager.

 

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Located at the corner of Seventh Avenue and West 40th Street, Margaritaville Resort Times Square is blocks away from the bright lights of Manhattan’s entertainment district and provides the ultimate location for a “no worries” vibe vacation immediately adjacent to New York’s most notable attractions, shopping, and museums.

 

 

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Among its dining and drinks options, Margaritaville Resort Times Square’s LandShark Bar & Grill is home to Times Square’s only year-round outdoor heated pool, bringing the beach to Manhattan with a menu of poolside eats and drinks. And guests can also see jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of New York from Margaritaville Resort Time Square’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar without even changing out of their flip-flops!

Jimmy Buffett performs at Margaritaville Resort Times Square “First Look” at Margaritaville Resort Times Square on June 10, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
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To celebrate the opening, the resort is offering a limited-time SummerzCool package, offering discounts for longer stays and a complimentary 1:00pm checkout… so they can sleep past noon in the city that never sleeps.

7 Great Hotels In San Francisco

While San Francisco may have become too expensive to live in, it is still relatively affordable to visit. Unlike New York City’s hotel scene, which seems to grow and grow, with trendy newcomers stealing the show, many of San Francisco’s top places to stay are the same properties they have always been—albeit some minor name changes.

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The Resurgence of the Travel Agent

If there’s one thing we can collectively embrace in 2020, it is a bit of nostalgia. Sure, we are still trying to be mindful, and grateful, and present, but the past can be a comforting balm when living in the moment looks more like “Groundhog Day” than “Eat, Pray, Love.” Whether you have been staring dreamily at old vacation photos on your camera roll or grinning at the sight of Mark Hamill and R2D2 back on your TV screen, being reminded of the days of old (or, you know, any day prior to February 2019) has been energizing and damn near delightful. GLR doesn’t mind that you’re fondly reminiscing—we are, too!—but might we suggest a tip for marrying the comfort of the past with the prospects of a vaccinated future? If “Saved By the Bell” can get a reboot, so can an old travel industry standby. (Re)enter:  the travel agent.

 

We know what you’re thinking:  you have a plethora of online booking options at your fingertips, which are already almost permanently glued to your keyboard or phone at this point. Redirect that side eye and hear us out, though. Sure, widespread, global travel is not greenlit just yet and we understand if you are still too spooked to count the proverbial chickens of 2021. With the FDA’s approval and roll-out of vaccinations now on track, though, it just might be high time for wanderlusters to seek out a helping hand in a changed landscape.

A new type of travel agent

“The role of the travel advisor has become more important now than ever, as people need help navigating all of the Covid details, including which counties are open for travel, entry requirements, testing sites, and more,” says Corey Cook, an agent for Elli Travel in Larchmont, NY and GLR’s resident travel advisor.

 

Jolie Goldring of the NYC-based agency In The Know Experiences (ITKE) has a similar take on the logistical benefits of using a travel advisor. However, the veteran advisor also points out the additional perks she can get her clients, noting amenities such as resort credits, daily complimentary breakfast, small personal touches and often confirmed upgrades—not to mention the general hand-holding that her clients have become accustomed to receiving.

 

“Whether it be leveraging our relationships to help with more flexible deposit and cancel policies, deciphering airline cancel and refund policies, or guiding clients about testing and quarantining policies that may be required, we are offering an invaluable service and peace-of-mind,” says Goldring.

 

 

Cook also sees the role of travel agent as similar to other sought after experts that the average person seeks out on a regular basis, such as a financial adviser or interior designer. Due to all the travel sites that have spawned across the web for years, many think that planning a trip is no longer something they need to outsource. According to Cook, though, she has recently seen her job become en vogue again, and hey, we get it. After all, why scour the internet for the best flight deal or agonize over conflicting hotel reviews when you could instead enlist the help of an individual who has made a career of knowing these things?

A sea of information

“The web has become oversaturated with travel information, and it’s simply overwhelming for many people. Which hotel should I book? What are the better activities/tours to do? There’s a million options,” Cook opines. “That’s where travel advisors come into play. We cut through all of that confusion to properly guide our clients and help with the bookings.”

 

Furthermore, studies in recent years have shown that the use of travel agents, even pre-Covid, was still more prevalent than the average I-can-do-it-myself hodophile might have guessed . The 2018 Global Passenger Survey completed by the International Air Transport Association, which garnered 10,408 responses from 145 countries, found that about 43 percent of passengers preferred to use a travel agency, travel management company or corporate travel department to book flights. Another particular standout from that 2018 survey that rings particularly relevant was a finding from the responses that passengers wanted “a human touch when things go wrong.”

 

Ahem. Case closed, are we right?

See our full report on State of Travel: 2021

 

Having a Wild Time at Sting Ray City

One of the great things about visiting Grand Cayman in the Caribbean is the various day trips it has to offer. North, South and East of Seven Mile Beach, there are a number of scenic spots to visit and places to explore, including secret coves, underground caves, snorkeling and diving spots, botanical gardens, and pretty beaches.

One of our favorite day excursions was a boat tour to picturesque Rum Point, with a stop at Stingray City, Grand Cayman’s #1 tourist attraction (and for a reason), along the way.

 

Day trip to Stingray City in Cayman Islands

 

My family and I knew that we wanted to visit Stingray City to swim with the stingrays, and we knew that we wanted to check out another part of the island; Rum Point is on the north end of the island in a serene setting away from it all. So, a boat excursion to both seemed like a good fit.

 

Red Sail Sports

We booked our tour with Red Sail Sports directly through the Westin Hotel the day before, and it couldn’t have been easier. Depending on which hotel you stay at, you will have several options of tours to book. Some include Rum Point with snorkeling near the coral reef, while others include Stingray City with Rum Point and Starfish Point, while some focus on diving. And if you’re not staying at a hotel, you can just book through a local operator, such as Red Sail and Captain Marvin’s.

 

Red sail Sports Catamaran in Grand Cayman

 

“Public” Catamaran

We decided to book our tour on a catamaran. As it happened, friends of ours told us they went on the Red Sail catamaran the day before and said it was an amazing experience. So that’s what we did. We went with another group of friends and about 20 other people on the “public” catamaran (not a private charter), and it was perfect for us. Though it’s bigger than a private one, it still felt fairly small, and we even had a corner of the boat to ourselves where our girls could lie on the “trampoline”.

Let me begin by saying, from beginning to end, this day trip was perfect. The weather was fantastic, the Red Sail staff were great, and everything ran along seamlessly. From the moment we boarded the shuttle to the marina and onto the catamaran and throughout the entire day, there were no hiccups.

 

Part of the reason why the day went so smoothly was the Red Sail staff was superb. It was about 4 or 5 people, including a photographer for Stingray City, and they were all knowledgeable, fun, funny and engaging. They gave us a run-down of the day and informed us on how to handle the stingrays, and off we jetted into the sea.

WHAT IS STINGRAY CITY?

Our first stop, and about a half hour from the Seven Mile beach area, was Stingray City. What is Stingray City, you may be wondering? It’s a group of sandbars out in the middle of the sea, some very shallow at 3-4 feet, some much deeper (where the divers go). The shallow ones you can obviously stand on, and that’s where many of the tour boats go.

 

red-Sail-Stingray-City-tour-Grand-CaymanPin this image on Pinterest

It is said that in the 1970’s fishermen would clean their fish and dump the fish guts into the sandbars, and that the stingrays caught on and would frequent the fishermen whenever they were there. That turned into the fishermen and divers feeding them, and the stingrays swarming them every time they came. They were very docile and adapted to being around humans, and eventually the tours started. The stingrays are still completely in the wild, only now they’re used to being around humans.

 

Playing with a stingray at Stingray City in Grand CaymanPin this image on Pinterest
Swimming with the Sting Rays

Visiting Stingray City was a unique experience – we swam with them, touched them, and with the help of the staff, held them. All out in the middle of the turquoise water in the middle of the sea. It was pretty spectacular. My girls, ages 12 and 10, were a bit shy and nervous, but the Red Sail guys helped them with every move. All of us were able to hold a stingray, and even give it a kiss! As I mentioned, there was a photographer on board, so we were able to get pictures with the cute rays as well.

 

Touching a stingray at Stingray City in the Cayman IslandsPin this image on Pinterest

 

Stingray City will definitely go down as one of my girls’ favorite vacation activities of all time, for the playfulness and sheer joy of it. Once we re-boarded the boat (after about 45 minutes), we were on our way to Rum Point, where we were to spend the remainder of the day.

—Corey Cook, Luxury Travel Advisor at Elli Travel and founder of Fifi+Hop Travel Blog

A Travel Advisor’s Take on Family Travel in 2021

I work in the travel industry as both a travel advisor and a travel writer. I’ve owned the travel blog, Fifi + Hop, for the past 6 years, and write mainly about family travel, as I have two kids. Between my conversations with other family travel bloggers and my colleagues in the travel agency world, there are certain trends that will no doubt play a part in family travel in 2021. We’ve seen them already, and they will continue for a while.

 

The first one is family vacations to national parks, such as Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Acadia and the Great Smoky Mountains. They offer wide open space in nature, and are much more easy to socially distance in than a city. The vaccine is encouraging news, but as it will take some time to distribute, people are still going to be more inclined to travel to places where they can be outdoors. The U.S. national parks have always been a favorite for family vacations—now more than ever.

Road trips, RV’s, and glamping were huge in the summer of 2020. They will continue to be big in 2021 as well. Families can be outdoors and socially distanced, and simply by themselves. It’s a great way for East Coasters to discover the west, and vice-versa. Speaking of “by themselves”, private home and small hotel rentals are going to continue to soar. With the onset of COVID-19, many hotel groups ramped up their villa and home offerings—simply by building more. There is a vast array of hotel homes to stay in, either with just your family or a group of families (or friends). A great example of a small hotel to rent out is Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte, CO. Want all the luxuries of staying in a 5-star hotel, but don’t want to be around a ton of people?  Lodges like this provide the perfect solution.

Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte, CO is a family ski vacation dream spot with all the amenities and Colorado style.

 

The bunk room at Scarp Ridge Lodge is like none other—perfect for kids.

As 2021 moves along, and so does the vaccine, international travel will undoubtedly pick up. It may be slow in the beginning as people adjust to the idea of long-distance travel, but one thing is for sure—once the vaccine is distributed and the country has “herd” immunity, international travel is going to come back with a vengeance—especially with those who like to travel a lot. Big trips will be a form of compensation for many, for the long hiatus.

 

As far as which places will be most popular first, that of course depends on the administration of the vaccine, and which countries open first. I don’t have a crystal ball, but it is generally considered that places such as Mexico, Costa Rica, the Caribbean and Bahamas will be hugely popular. Mexico and Costa Rica, for one, don’t require a COVID test to enter. That is appealing to some, and not appealing to others. While these countries may be easy to get into, they may also become more risky. But we are already seeing Mexico as a hugely desirable destination.

Grace Bay in the Turks and Caicos is another family friendly dream spot with tons of hotels at different price ranges.

Another trend that is and will be big—even for families—is wellness travel. People have been put through the ringer in 2020, and what they really want is to relax, recharge, and renew…get a treatment, get a massage, get their body in shape. People (parents included!) want serenity and tranquility. Places such as the Caribbean, Costa Rica and Mexico can provide them with a sense of total relaxation among white sand beaches and turquoise blue water. And the kids won’t complain.

 

Europe is a bit hard to predict at this point, but Greece will most likely be a hot spot. It did well with COVID, and opened in 2020, just not to Americans. Much like the Caribbean being a place of beauty and peacefulness, so are the Greek islands. The sea, beaches, healthy Mediterranean food are all tonics for the soul. The Greek islands provide a sense of adventure too – they are in Europe and you can hop around from one island to the next. And the Greek culture is extremely family-friendly.

Mykonos Island, Greece. The Greek isles should be a hot destination when international travel bounces back.

Another European country very much in a similar vain is Italy. Italy is the mother of family-friendly destinations, and I have written a lot about the country, as I have taken a few family vacations there with my kids. Yes, Italy did not do well with COVID, but once the vaccine is in full-effect, Italy will be huge for family travel. Simply put, it always has been, and always will be.

 

Rounding out Europe, I suspect that Portugal, Spain and Switzerland will be popular for family vacations as well. Portugal has the Algarve, with its dramatic coastline and beaches; Spain has its beaches and islands, such as Mallorca, Menorca and the Canary Islands; and Switzerland of course has its mountains and stunning scenery—a nature lover’s paradise.

 

It will be interesting to see—as the vaccine takes shape—how each country progresses. No one can predict what will happen, and things are ever-changing, but I believe these trends give us an idea of where things are headed.

—Corey Cook, Luxury Travel Advisor at Elli Travel and founder of Fifi+Hop Travel Blog

A Lofty Plan: The Story of Airbnb

It must have sounded like a crazy idea at the time but it’s since become the stuff of legend. Back in 2008, Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia were two ambitious entrepreneurs living in an expensive loft in San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood. Continue reading

pool at Baha Mar

Baha Marvelous

1,000 acres—3 Deluxe Hotels—2,300 rooms—100,000 square foot casino —8 Pools—30 Bars—42 Restaurants—$4 Billion in total cost. 

These are just some of the staggering statistics that accompany the newly opened, much ballyhooed, longtime-in-the-making mega resort Baha Mar in the Bahamas—which was famous long before it ever opened due to multiple bankruptcies, a revolving door of owners, and the now well documented, stutter-step fashion in which it was conceived and ultimately built. Continue reading

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa

The moment you arrive at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa in Anguilla, your body immediately begins to unwind as you bask in the sun, sand and sea. Boasting white stucco buildings and distinct, Mediterranean-influenced architecture, this beachfront property has it all, for families or a romantic get-away. Continue reading

Las Vegas Refresh

When gangster Bugsy Siegel opened the Flamingo in 1946, it was the first large-scale casino-hotel project on a quiet stretch of Nevada desert. Today, Las Vegas is anything but quiet, with massive casino-hotels stationed like giant soldiers on the world-famous Strip.

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Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, Opening 2021

Most of its 155 rooms will boast panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, enveloped by the surrounding jungle.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced a new luxury resort located in Tamarindo, Mexico. Opening in 2021 as Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, the project will be located on a private peninsula along the Pacific Ocean. The area, known as “Costa Alegre” or “Joy Coast” is acclaimed for its picturesque beaches, lush landscape and unique topography.

“As we grow the Four Seasons portfolio in Mexico, this project in Tamarindo is the ideal opportunity to do so, offering our guests access to the natural wonder of the region, paired with Four Seasons renowned service and quality excellence,” says John Davison, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “

Rooms with a view

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo will be located in a protected eco-reserve 25 miles north of the Manzanillo Airport. Most of its 155 rooms will boast panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, enveloped by the surrounding jungle and lush golf course. The contemporary architectural and interior design by the firms of Legorreta + Legorreta and Taller Mauricio Rocha + Gabriela Carrillo will blend with the natural surroundings and showcase local materials and textures.

 

 

The Resort will be part of the 2,100 acre El Tamarindo master planned development featuring multiple beaches and private coves. The development will be built to take advantage of elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 120 metres (394 feet) above sea level, providing breath-taking views of the landscape, golf course and ocean. Accommodations are well suited to both adult travellers and those visiting with children.

Dining

The Resort will offer four dining and beverage venues, including an ocean view bar and restaurant, beach bar and grill and golf club restaurant. The grounds will also feature three pools, a full-service spa set amid a tropical forest and a fitness centre, young adults centre and lounge, water sports centre, tennis courts and 370 square metres (4,000 square feet) of meeting space. The highly acclaimed 18-hole, par 72, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and David Fleming designed links golf course will round out the amenities.

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo will join a growing collection of Four Seasons properties located in Mexico, including Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, the recently opened Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, and the recently announced Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol.