Sometimes even a digital detox isn’t enough — you need solitude and silence. From the Indonesian archipelago to the lochs of Scotland to the middle of the Indian Ocean, these new and improved secluded island retreats give you the chance to get away from it all.
Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
The barefoot pilot of our 10-seater could hardly wait to jump into the ocean. We’d just landed after the 80-minute flight from Singapore to Bawah Reserve, when I saw him scurry down the jetty. How could we blame him, given the unreal turquoise that beckoned?
But guests at Bawah Reserve — a resort on Pulau Bawah, one of six islands in an archipelago between Borneo and the Malay Peninsula — don’t have to rush. There, you’re invited to take your time. (In fact, the resort sets its clocks an hour ahead of the rest of western Indonesia, to sync cocktail hour with the sunset.)
Until recently, Pulau Bawah, part of the larger Anambas Island chain, was threatened by illegal dynamite fishing. After the resort, which opened early last year, took on the stewardship of Pulau Bawah’s three mirrorlike lagoons, it prohibited ships from anchoring near their fragile reefs.
The resort has 36 villas made of bamboo and recycled wood; 11 stand directly over the water. They combine the advantages of alfresco living — including unencumbered views of the ocean and, in some cases, retractable canvas walls — with air-conditioning, solar-heated showers, and Wi-Fi.
So how do you fill your days so far from civilization? You can try a Javanese body scrub with rice powder, turmeric, and sandalwood, or feast on a lunch of prawn satay and gado gado, an Indonesian salad dressed in peanut sauce. One morning, I ambled through a virgin forest of fan palms and cycads to see the sun rise over the reefs.
Of course, the ocean is the reserve’s biggest draw. On the last day of my three-day visit I waded into the warm sea and found myself surrounded by darting parrotfish, giant clams, and bluespotted ribbontail rays. I lingered — until it was time to board the plane and return to the outside world.
Eilean Shona, Scotland
Clouds cocooned Loch Moidart as our small boat chugged to Eilean Shona, a private island off the western coast of Scotland. Owned by Vanessa Branson, Sir Richard’s sister, this forest-fringed and bracken-blanketed 1,260-acre complex of cottage rentals — including the newly revamped Shepherd’s Cottage, where I stayed — is the stuff of childhood fantasies. In fact, Peter Pan author J. M. Barrie spent a holiday here in the 1920s and was captivated by what he described in a letter as the “wild rocky romantic island.” There are no roads, just a spiderweb of paths, mossy mounds, and heather-covered hills. It’s a place to scrabble over boulders and picnic on the sand. Sea eagles wheel overhead, while otters and seals bask on the rocks.
There’s a rambling main house that sleeps 20 and can be rented with or without a chef. For smaller groups or solo travelers, there are eight cottages, hidden in the woods or on sheltered bays. Shepherd’s Cottage is a 45-minute walk along the coast from the disembarkation point. “You can’t get lost,” Paul Waddington, the estate manager, said with a smile as we clambered out of the boat. “Just follow the path.” Along the track, I passed a shed that had been transformed into a cozy game room, with old sofas, books, and table tennis. It’s also the only place to get Wi-Fi on the island; there are pockets of cell phone reception, but this is a place to log off. Guests bring their own provisions, although there is a shop open for a couple of hours each week where you can stock up on venison casserole and fish pie.
As I rounded a bend, Shepherd’s Cottage came into sight, a tiny stone bolt-hole with views to the islands of Rum and Eigg. Since there was no electricity in my cottage, lighting was by gas lamp. A coal stove provided heat and hot water, while the range and fridge were gas-powered. Bright rugs were scattered over the dark wood floors, and modern art hung on the walls. The huge, marshmallow-soft bed was warmed by hot water bottles and covered with a furry throw. There was a romantic Victorian-style roll-top tub for long, hot soaks in water tinted an earthy brown by the peat.
I spent my days exploring: hiking along the coast, poking around ruined cottages, sailing to Shoe Bay, watching red deer graze at my door in the morning. Each night I curled up in front of the fire. The world felt far away, so this island became a far-flung kingdom, its secrets mine to discover.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island
There’s only one resort on Desroches, a sliver of coral in the Indian Ocean, but technically the island isn’t private. It’s shared by the hotel and two villages, and the interactions between them are a large part of what makes it such a distinctive escape.
Desroches, part of the Seychelles’ little-visited Amirantes Group, is a 35-minute flight from the main island of Mahé. The Four Seasons resort, which opened last March after a complete overhaul of a preexisting property, is a cushy base for checking out the island’s 933 acres. Each guest gets a bicycle, and I pedaled mine along forest pathways, personalized picnic basket in tow, en route to my own private stretch of coastline.
Having the run of the place also means an array of unique activities, including yoga sessions on the very runway where your flight from Mahé lands and family movie nights under the stars. The staff may also surprise you with a treasure hunt. Mine began with a riddle at breakfast directing me to “look up for something that doesn’t belong” at Madame Zabre beach (it was a pineapple), with further clues leading to the discovery of a coconut outside the spa and a bottle of rum tucked into my suite’s hammock. Later, I got to put these treasures to use in a private mixology class atop a lighthouse.
Ranging from one-room bungalows and larger suites to group-friendly villas with up to seven bedrooms, the accommodations have an upscale beach-house vibe: rattan furniture, vintage explorer-inspired curios, outdoor showers. All have plunge pools and direct beach access, while the suites also feature hammocks and thatched-roof cabanas. When you do feel like leaving your room, the public areas — a swimming pool, lounges and restaurants, and a seaside spa — rarely feel crowded.
Balancing all this privacy is the world just outside the resort. The two communities — one Indian, one Creole — have a combined population of about 100. Some residents work for the hotel, while others make furniture or farm. Guests can visit the villages to meet the locals, learn about their crafts, and even cheer on the teams at their weekly cricket matches. Guests can also feed Aldabra giant tortoises at a sanctuary and breeding center operated by the Island Conservation Society, which focuses on land restoration and wildlife protection.
Back at the resort, the marine educators of the Discovery Centre guide visitors on snorkeling trips that reveal the aquatic wonders in the region, which is too remote to be affected by commercial fishing. This access to unspoiled nature is perhaps the most luxurious part of staying on Desroches — and the biggest benefit of this island’s version of going private.
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October 29, 2021 – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is excited to announce the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, providing discerning travelers with a new way to discover one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Transforming the city’s skyline and sitting amongst the country’s tallest buildings, the hotel is centrally located along the iconic Paseo de Reforma and showcases uninterrupted views of the famed Chapultepec Park. Featuring the legendary service of the brand’s Ladies and Gentlemen, each detail of the hotel is thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the city’s rich culture and offer a unique perspective on this beloved destination.
“We are thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Mexico City, exemplifying our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and creating meaningful memories in the world’s most exciting markets,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Whether enjoying a hotel tour with a local historian to be immersed into the Mexican rituals and celebrations that inspired the hotel design, or allowing our Ladies and Gentlemen to curate a day of exploration in the city, we are excited to provide both guests and locals with a unique lens on this incredible destination.”
Soaring 58-stories high, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City is located in a stunning building concepted by Taller G and features 153 guest rooms and suites. Capitalizing on its enviable location and views, a double glass façade provides unique open-air terraces, inviting guests to discover a new perspective on the enchanting city. The interiors, designed by Chapi Chapo Design, were created to serve as a looking glass into Mexico City’s dynamic past, present, and future. Paying homage to the city’s profound influence on the surrealist art movement, the hotel embraces the way famed Mexican artists like Frida Kahlo, Gunther Gerzso and Leonora Carrington celebrated their indigenous roots and broke away from colonial influences. At The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, the use of metals, mirrors and glass serve to reflect the exterior into the interior, creating a surrealist experience by playing with perspective and distorting the surrounding, traditional architecture. While a neutral color palette invokes a sense of calm, shades of smokey ash, deep blues, and metallic fibers are woven in throughout the hotel as a nod to Mexican storytelling and folklore.
“The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City will act as a literal and figurative gateway along the Paseo de Reforma, welcoming and encouraging guests to learn about the colorful history, dynamic present and bright future of Mexico City,” stated Luis Lopez, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City. “The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City are eager to welcome our guests and accompany them on a memorable journey during their stay.”
Featuring unparalleled service, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City celebrates legendary Mexican hospitality and offers guests a highly personalized experience. The hotel features a wide range of carefully curated amenities designed for cultural discovery and epicurean adventures or business travel, including The Ritz-Carlton Club® Lounge with an exclusive Club Concierge, a heated indoor swimming pool, large fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa with six luxurious treatment rooms. Bringing the destination to life in a unique way, The Ritz-Carlton Spa thoughtfully sources local ingredients and botanicals, which are then coupled with the healing and spiritual traditions of Mexico City’s Aztec culture. In addition to relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, the spa features an assortment of wellness areas, including steam rooms, saunas, and a timeless capsule room.
Dining at Samos, the Mediterranean inspired restaurant on the 38th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, guests can enjoy cuisine featuring dynamic local flavors for a one-of-a-kind experience. Bringing vast luxury experience and expertise in Mexican, Italian, French, Peruvian and Argentinian cuisines, Chef Jonathan Felix has carefully created each dish to offer a culinary journey where flavors and sensations are elevated with every bite. The epicurean experiences continue through the dessert course with delicate sweets like Nido, an airy mango and passion fruit mousse encased in white chocolate and cradled by a spun sugar nest.
The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City also offers more than 4,300 square feet of meeting space with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Chapultepec Park, ideally suited for a variety of events from meetings to celebratory occasions. The spaces have been designed to foster inspiration and connection whether a large gathering in the ballroom or an intimate board meeting.
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October 29, 2021 – Vietnam plans to resume international flights, which would allow the country to welcome foreign tourists in the last quarter of 2021.
The country has proposed several inbound flights for fully vaccinated foreign tourists to certain regions of Vietnam in the first phase. In the second phase from January 2022, Vietnam plans more regular flights for fully vaccinated or recovered tourists.
In the third and fourth phases, from April 2022 and July 2022, the country plans to remove quarantine for eligible entrants.
Vietnam continues to speed up its vaccination campaign. So far, 52.6 million people (54.5% of the population) have received at least one Covid-19 vaccine shot, while 21.5 million people (22.2% of the population) have been fully vaccinated.
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Traveling through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will be even easier for Delta customers enrolled in TSA PreCheck starting next month with the expansion of new facial recognition capabilities and the opening of the first-ever Delta-TSA PreCheck® express lobby and bag drop.
Customers with both the Fly Delta app and a TSA PreCheck membership will soon be able to visit a new dedicated bag drop lobby on the lower level of Atlanta’s Domestic South Terminal, pass through the security checkpoint, and board their plane at the gate using only their “digital identity“ (made up of a customer’s SkyMiles Member number, passport number and Known Traveler Number). Customers are free to travel from curb to gate, completely hands- and device-free.
“We want to give our customers more time to enjoy travel by unlocking simplified, seamless and efficient experiences from end to end,” said Byron Merritt, Delta’s Vice President of Brand Experience Design. “Delta has been a leader in testing and implementing facial recognition technology since 2018 as part of our vision for building airports that are effortless. The launch of Atlanta’s express lobby and bag drop is the latest step in our commitment to listening and innovating for our customers.”
Here’s how Delta’s new experience will ease transit through three airport touchpoints in Atlanta:
Delta is setting a new standard for the industry as the first and only airline to build a dedicated bag drop space for TSA PreCheck customers. In Atlanta, a sleek new facility features fully automated self-serve bag drop machines – allowing for a quick and easy drop.
After checking in on the Fly Delta app, customers can enter the dedicated lobby area, conveniently located next to the rideshare drop-off area on the lower level of Atlanta’s Domestic South Terminal. They’ll quickly verify their identity via a hands-free facial scan, print and attach a bag tag from a self-serve kiosk, and place their bag on the conveyer.
Not only does the new experience streamline steps required to check a bag, but it also saves customers an average of more than two minutes (and more during peak travel times) by allowing them to skip the lines inside the main airport lobby.
The space will open next month ahead of the holiday travel season. In Detroit, eligible customers will be able to enjoy self-serve bag tagging and a dedicated Delta bag drop queue at the Delta check-in counter later this fall.
After a short walk from bag drop to security, eligible customers will once again use a quick facial scan to pass through the domestic checkpoint in dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes – no need to show a government ID or boarding pass.
In Atlanta, customers will also have the benefit of industry-leading, more efficient security scannersthat allow travelers to keep electronics and approved liquids in carry-on bags. As always, CLEAR remains a good choice for members who prefer to use its services.
When it’s time to board, customers will swap a facial scan for a boarding pass, just as they did at bag drop and the security checkpoint. One photo, and they are ready to board.
In Atlanta, T1-T8 gates will be the first to offer a facial recognition option for domestic boarding. Gates A10 and A12 will offer the same digital identity-enabled boarding in Detroit.
“This element of the customer journey is possible thanks to our strong partnerships with TSA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and airport leadership, which were built over years of testing and perfecting facial recognition options for international customers,” said Greg Forbes, Delta’s Managing Director – Airport Experience. “Delta is writing the playbook for the industry as the first and only carrier to test this experience with TSA and TSA PreCheck.”
“We are glad to support self-service technologies that enhance security and reduce physical contact for passengers and TSA employees,” said Atlanta’s TSA Federal Security Director Robert Spinden. “This is one of many such pilots at domestic airports, and we look forward to continuing to test new initiatives with airline and interagency partners.”
Customers with an active Delta SkyMiles membership, Known Traveler Number and passport details saved to their profile can opt in when checking in for their flight using the Fly Delta app. If a customer does not want to participate in this option, they can choose not to opt in and proceed through the airport as preferred – participation is voluntary. Delta does not save or store any biometric data, nor does it plan to.
Delta teams are working to expand the airline’s facial recognition-enabled offerings both in scale and scope so more customers can experience a hands-free journey in the future.
With ongoing enhancements to the customer experience both in the air and on the ground – and even more destinations on the map in 2021-2022 – Delta is giving customers more to look forward to as they continue returning to the skies.
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October 28, 2021 – The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has announced the signing of nine hotel management agreements with international hotel brands to operate resorts in the first phase of development at The Red Sea Project.
The agreements were unveiled on Day 2 of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) 2021, with the collection of hospitality brands set to operate nine of the 16 properties currently under development in the first phase and collectively feature more than 1,700 hotel keys of the total 3000 planned for Phase One.
These include EDITION Hotels and St Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International; Fairmont Hotel & Resorts, Raffles Hotels & Resorts and SLS Hotels & Residences, part of global hospitality group Accor; Grand Hyatt, part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation; Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts and Six Senses, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts; and Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, a global luxury hospitality company.
Saudi Arabia is accelerating its development of a new tourism offering in the Kingdom, fueled by the ambitious Vision 2030 program. We are proud to unveil our collection of unique and diverse hospitality brands that cater to this growing market and underpin our commitment to creating a world-leading barefoot luxury destination which will soon serve as a gateway to one of the last undiscovered places on the planet, said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.
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Qantas Airways Ltd said on Friday it would speed up plans to restart flights to many destinations and use some bigger planes amid “massive demand” for international flying as quarantine restrictions ease for Australian citizens.
All 11,000 of the airline’s staff idled without pay, around half its workforce, will return to work by early December as domestic and international flying returns to more normal levels, the airline said.
Qantas will bring back two of its flagship Airbus SE A380 super-jumbos in April – three months earlier than planned – and is in talks with Boeing Co about the delivery of three new 787-9s in storage to accelerate its international flight plans.
Qantas Chief Executive Alan Joyce said that for four of the last five weeks, the airline’s international sales were stronger than domestic sales for the first time since the pandemic began.
“There is massive demand for Australians wanting to see their family and relatives,” he told reporters. “There is massive demand for loved ones wanting to get together for Christmas. There is demand for people wanting to take that holiday that they have been looking forward to for nearly two years.”
The state of New South Wales, home to Sydney, last week said it would allow the entry of fully vaccinated travellers from overseas from Nov. 1 without the need for quarantine, although the easing of strict entry controls will initially benefit only citizens and permanent residents.
Qantas said it would launch a new route from Sydney to New Delhi on Dec. 6 and bring forward plans for flights to Singapore, Fiji, Johannesburg, Bangkok and Phuket due to the New South Wales rule change.
Neighbouring Victoria state, home to Australia’s second-largest city Melbourne, on Friday announced a similar policy from Nov. 1.
Qantas said it would bring forward the start of flights from Melbourne to London by six weeks to Nov. 6 and to Singapore by three weeks to Nov. 22. It will look at bringing forward other destinations if possible.
Joyce said Qantas was also hopeful Indonesia would relax quarantine rules for Australians, allowing its low-cost arm Jetstar to begin flights to Bali by Christmas.
“It will be in the early new year at the latest, I think, and we’ve got aircraft ready to go,” he said.
For the airline to make a full recovery in its loss-making international business, Australian rules will need to be eased further to allow international students, business travellers and tourists to enter the country.
Hong Kong and mainland China have also maintained tight quarantine rules that have stopped Qantas from resuming flights.
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Business air travel is recovering faster than expected and should remain solid through the winter, the chief executive of Germany’s Lufthansa said in remarks published on Monday.
Meanwhile private travel is seeing an “extension of the summer season” as people catch up on flights they were not able to take immediately after the onset of the pandemic, Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr told Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung.
“In addition, we are seeing a positive trend in business travel, which was still at a low level in the third quarter and is now picking up strongly,” Spohr said in an interview.
Global air travel was brought to a standstill by the coronavirus pandemic, forcing Lufthansa into a multi-billion dollar bailout by the German government.
Lufthansa expects the level of business travel in the medium term to be around 90% or more of what it was before COVID-19.
“There will … be no sudden drop in demand in winter this year,” he said of the outlook for business travel as demand tends to fade less in that segment in winter and the “good development” in bookings is expected to last until December.
“Business travel has returned faster and more strongly than expected,” Spohr said, adding that it was being felt in particular in the German, Swiss, Austrian, Belgian and northern Italian markets, where more flights have been added.
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Under normal circumstances, falling asleep during a paid tour is a waste of money at best or an offense to your guide at worst. But that’s not the case with this new experience coming out of Hong Kong. As its name suggests, the Sleeping Bus Tour is designed to help passengers catch some Zs, and rides are already selling out.
“When we were brainstorming new tours, I saw a social media post from my friend saying that he was stressed out by his work, he couldn’t sleep at night,” said Kenneth Kong, the marketing and business development manager of ulu travel, the company behind this new concept.
“But when he was traveling on the bus, he was able to sleep well. His post inspired us to create this tour that lets passengers just sleep on the bus,” Kong told the Associated Press.
The five-hour bus ride takes passengers on an 83-kilometer (about 51.5 miles) journey aboard a regular double decker bus. Not only is the Sleeping Bus Tour the first of its kind, it’s also the longest bus route in Hong Kong, ensuring that fatigued passengers have plenty of time to enjoy some REM sleep.
The entire experience starts at a restaurant, where guests will be served a “2-course Western menu” or what the company describes as a “Food Coma Lunch” — an excellent head start in making passengers feel sleepy. Once they board the bus, passengers can get cozy for the ride, which includes a few stops for scenic photo ops and bathroom breaks. Passengers can also disembark the bus early at one of several drop-off points if they’d prefer to continue their sleep at home rather than complete the entire journey.
“I have been suffering from insomnia so I am here to try and get some sleep,” 25-year-old Anson Kong told the Associated Press. He was one of the passengers on the first bus tour, which completely sold out and took place on Oct. 16.
He said that the tour was a good idea and “more interesting” than he expected.
Tickets for the Sleeping Bus Tour are divided in four categories from the “Zero-decibel Sleeping Cabin” to the “VIP Panorama Cabin.” Prices range from about $17 USD to $115 USD per person.
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October 28, 2021 – Cunard announces new itineraries on Queen Elizabeth for 2022. Cunard has announced that a series of new itineraries sailing on Queen Elizabeth between February and May 2022 will go on sale in November. All sailings will depart from Southampton and will include a voyage in search of the Northern Lights, journeys to the Canary Islands and the Western Mediterranean as well as a grand voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, through the Panama Canal and on to Vancouver, Canada.
The new itineraries will replace the existing published schedule. Cunard continues to work very closely with authorities in all the destinations visited to ensure compliance with local health and entry requirements. Unfortunately, based on the most recent advice for cruise guests, and given the complexities of many of the international destinations involved, it will not be viable to maintain Queen Elizabeth’s existing schedule and all departures from 20 February to 17 May 2022 inclusive are now cancelled.
Cunard President Simon Palethorpe says, “We hope our guests will be inspired to find a little adventure with these new itineraries. In a single short programme, they offer fantastic variety from the opportunity to experience the wondrous Northern Lights, to sun kissed Mediterranean shores, to a transit of the Panama Canal.
To all guests affected by the cancelled voyages we are sorry for the disappointment this will cause and we hope to welcome many back on board when we return to Japan in 2023.”
Guests booked on the affected cancelled voyages will be offered a full refund or future cruise credit worth 125% of the standard deposit terms, and 100% of any additional monies paid.
About Cunard Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic, since 1840, celebrating an incredible 181 years of operation. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys for generations, Cunard is world class. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment and outstanding service. From five-star restaurants and in-suite dining to inspiring guest speakers, the library and film screenings, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. There are currently three Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria with destinations including Europe, the Caribbean, the Far East and Australia. In 2017, Cunard announced plans to add a fourth ship to its fleet to be launched in 2022. This investment is part of the company’s ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally and will be the first time since 1998 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service. Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
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Berlin-based AMANO Group will be opening its first international outpost in spring 2022. Hotel AMANO Covent Garden promises to bring the cool and vibrant energy of Berlin to the heart of London. Located on Covent Garden’s DruryLane, the new boutique lifestyle hotel is the first of multiple AMANO hotels set to open in London.
Formerly a 1980s office building known as Drury House, this 141-room property will offer a new destination for Londoners as well as visitors to socialize. Locals and guests alike will find a basement bar, restaurant, sky bar and rooftop terrace with impressive city views and DJs spinning music on weekends.
With a wealth of tourist hotspots on its doorstep, like the recently renovated Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Hotel AMANO Covent Garden says it will make a great base for solo and business travelers, couples, and families wanting to explore the capital. Guests can choose from three room categories (Cosy, Comfy and Roomy) to suit a range of budgets. Throughout the property, expect dark moody tones and design features from London-based design studio, WoodsBagot, the lead architect and interior designer behind the new opening.
The AMANO Group currently owns 10 hotels, including eight in Berlin, one in Düsseldorf and one in Munich. Leipzig and London are under construction, plus three more hotels in Hamburg and Munich are in the planning stages. Established in 2009, The AMANO Group has the aspiration of designing hotels that do not act as foreign objects of tourism but are integrated into the city’s cultural life. As a result, all its establishments pursue the following philosophy: Sophisticated urban living in a central location at a fair price. This includes an interior design décor and level of service that surpass the three-star standard.
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Valencia, Spain has been named European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022. The city’s candidacy has been chosen by a jury of the European Commission, specializing in accessibility, sustainability, digitization, cultural heritage and creativity. Valencia’s commitment to developing projects that promote smart tourism; networking and promoting the development of innovative, sustainable, and inclusive tourism, were recognized and cemented the jury’s decision.
A total of 30 applications from 16 different countries submitted initiatives, including Bordeaux (France), Copenhagen (Denmark), Dublin (Ireland), Florence (Italy) and Palma (Spain).
The councilor for tourism of the Valencia City Council, Emiliano Garcia, said in a press statement that this distinction from the E.U. “represents recognition of the work on sustainability that the Valencia destination is developing, together with the business sector.”
“Valencia is positioning itself as a cosmopolitan, intelligent and sustainable tourist destination, at the level of large tourist cities and European capitals,” he added. “We are leading pioneering projects in terms of sustainability, such as the one relating to the calculation, certification and reduction of carbon and water footprints, or the development of a complete Tourist Intelligence System. We are positioning ourselves as a destination for international filming thanks to the constitution of the Film Office; we are the World Design Capital for 2022, and in parallel, we continue to maximize the value and visibility of our most traditional heritage, both tangible and intangible.”
Supported by a panel of experts in communication and brand development, Valencia will produce a promotional video, a large sculpture, including a hashtag that will be installed in a prominent place in the city and various promotional activities within the European Union to support visibility and awareness of the award in 2022.
Commitment to Sustainability
Valencia has developed its tourism strategy on the pillar of sustainability, promoting projects that allow progress and meet the DMOs sustainable development goals. Among these projects and taking into consideration the city’s economic, social, and environmental impact is the recent audit of its carbon and water footprint of tourism activity. Through the reduction and compensation of tourism related activities, Valencia aims to be carbon-neutral by 2025.
Increased Accessibility
Significant efforts have been made to increase the space dedicated to pedestrians. Showcasing Valencia’s commitment to mobility, more than 95 miles of bike lanes have been created in the city, the promotion of facilities with special equipment has increased, architectural barriers have been eliminated and multiple projects have been developed to adapt the tourist offer to ensure those with reduced mobility can enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Tech Improving the Tourist Experience
Aimed at easing the decision-making process in the business sector, communication tools such as tourist chatbots, smart tourist information kiosks—which help travelers 24 hours a day, seven days a week—as well as geocaching experiences to discover the city’s attractions are some examples of the digital advances Valencia has taken to connect with visitors via tech.
Preservation of History
A city full of cultural heritage, historical character, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Valencia is committed to the preservation of its key tourism offerings and attractions. In addition to the journey to declare paella as Intangible Heritage of Humanity, the candidacy also highlighted other international recognitions—such as the 2022 World Design Capital award—as well as the synergies created between the cultural, creative and tourism industries.
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The highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere is now allowing its visitors to scale the 1,131-foot skyscraper.
Today, New York City’s Edge at Hudson Yards announced that tickets would go on sale for City Climb, the highest external building climb in the world.
Opening on November 9, climbers can scale the outside of the Edge building and lean over the outdoor platform at the top.
Climbers will be fitted with specially designed safety harnesses secured by City Climb guides via two cables attached to a trolley. They will be able to lean out over the observation platform after arriving at The Apex, which stands at 1,271-feet.
Participants can also enjoy a view of Edge’s outdoor area on the 100th floor, which includes a champagne bar.
“The architectural details in New York City’s buildings make our skyline one of the most instantly recognizable in the world,” said Senior Vice President of Related Companies Michael Gilbane in Hudson Yards’ in an official press release obtained by PR Newswire.
“But until now, the views from these iconic capstones have been reserved for cinematic superheroes,” Gilbane continued.
“We are exceedingly proud of the team who master-minded this entertainment marvel offering the world an unparalleled perspective of the City,” Gilbane concluded in the release.
Tickets priced at $185 grants access to the City Climb experience, entry to Edge, and a digital image of the building. City Climb will be open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.
New guests will also get a customized video of their climb and a commemorative medal.
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October 27, 2021 – American Airlines is redesigning its award-winning AAdvantage® loyalty program, ridding it of complicated elite qualifying metrics for an easy-to-understand point system that provides multiple ways to earn status. In 2022, AAdvantage members can earn status by flying, using an AAdvantage credit card for purchases or spending with an AAdvantage partner.
“Loyalty should be simple, and we have reimagined our AAdvantage program to a single point system that provides a clear path to earning status for our members,” said Chief Customer Officer Alison Taylor. “For our loyal members, the message is simple: Earn AAdvantage miles, earn status — whether that’s by flying on American or by spending on everyday activities. We thank our members for their continued loyalty and look forward to this renewed relationship as we enter 2022.”
Achieving AAdvantage status
For every qualifying AAdvantage mile earned, members will earn one Loyalty Point. Here’s how to earn points:
Members can earn Loyalty Points by flying on American or one of its eligible partner airlines.
Don’t fly often, no problem. Join fellow AAdvantage members who will earn Loyalty Points every year just by shopping online or dining out.
AAdvantage 2022 status requirements
Status
Loyalty Points
Gold
30,000
Platinum
75,000
Platinum Pro
125,000
Executive Platinum
200,000
Extending status and a chance to double dip
To thank our members for their continued loyalty, American is extending all current members AAdvantage status through March 31, 2022.
And members can also double dip as any qualifying activity earned in January and February will count towards both 2022 and 2023 AAdvantage status. This gives members an extra two months to earn elite status for both years.
In the future, members will qualify for status from March through February, with status valid through March 31 of the following year.
Unlock Loyalty Choice Rewards
Next year, AAdvantage members can unlock Loyalty Choice Rewards, formerly called elite choice rewards. Loyalty Choice Rewards is a menu of rewards awarded to members that earn Platinum Pro status or higher and fly at least 30 flights on American or qualifying partner airlines.
Members can select the Loyalty Choice Reward they value the most, including an Admirals Club day pass, systemwide upgrades or bonus AAdvantage miles. Additional Loyalty Choice Rewards are available to unlock as members accrue more Loyalty Points.
About American Airlines Group American’s purpose is to care for people on life’s journey. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL and the company’s stock is included in the S&P 500. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.
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Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and CLC World Resorts & Hotels have announced plans to brand 12 properties in key leisure destinations.
The deal includes hotels in Spain, Canary Islands, Turkey, UK and Austria.
Expected to open in November, the properties will be converted into Wyndham Grand Residences, Wyndham Residences, Wyndham, Ramada Residences by Wyndham and Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham.
The new additions will further expand Wyndham’s portfolio of over 300 hotels across Europe, adding more sought-after destinations including Turkey’s Aegean coast, Spain’s Costa del Sol, the beautiful island of Tenerife, secluded country estates in Scotland and England and the Austrian Alps.
Dimitris Manikis, president of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts EMEA, said: “We are thrilled to add these outstanding resorts to our growing portfolio and continue to expand our destinations all across Europe.
“The continued trust of successful independent owners and operators highlights the success of our conversion strategy.
“We have a strong track-record for helping hospitality businesses benefit from the support and brand recognition that comes from joining the world’s largest hotel franchising company and are excited to begin our journey with CLC World Resorts & Hotels.”
CLC World is a family-owned business with over three decades of experience developing award-winning resorts in some of the world’s most desirable destinations.
CLC World’s collection of villas, apartments and suites sets itself apart from the conventional hotel, combining all the facilities and amenities of a luxury hotel with spacious one-to-three-bedroom homes, equipped with everything you have at home.
Patrick Ingram, group managing director, CLC World Resorts & Hotels commented: “What we value about Wyndham, in addition to their tremendous scale and distribution, is their passion for hospitality and outstanding support.
“We are delighted for our collaboration and are looking forward to welcoming even more travellers to our collection of beautiful resorts and hotels and delivering a wonderful guest experience together with Wyndham.”
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Consumer media are reporting an upward trend in travel agency bookings. Anxiety plays a big part in pushing travellers back to agents. The internet is full of horror stories about travel arrangements made direct or online, which have gone horribly wrong.
That’s why, despite the devastation of the industry at the beginning of the pandemic, the travel agent is now more important than ever in the new world of changing travel rules, regulations and government protocols.
A Port Elizabeth travel consultant told Travel News she believed fear was driving the passenger back to the agent. “I have had dozens of calls from people who normally book online, wanting assistance with information pertaining to country-entry procedures and airline COVID-19 protocols, and they admit they are fearful of doing online bookings themselves and would rather have an expert take care of it and pay them a fee.”
She adds: “This is definitely a post-COVID trend. Clients want the expertise and information that online cannot offer and suppliers should be mindful of this and perhaps pause investment online and focus more on the travel agent who has again become a major stream of distribution.”
Elaine Durr, Operations Director of World Leisure Holidays, told Travel News that she believed South African consumers were more hesitant to book online. “South African consumers use online sources to compare rates but if COVID-19 has taught the consumer one thing, it would be the value of having a travel adviser. The online booking tool does not qualify the consumer as an agent. Travel is far more complex now and although the booking process via an online platform may be quick and simple, the consumer is unaware of important rules and protocols for travel.”
John Friel Travelstart’s Country Manager, reports that Travelstart has seen an increase in long-haul international business. “As restrictions ease and the vaccination programme intensifies, so traveller confidence has grown. They are migrating back online where they have the ability to see a full range of options and prices.” Friel forecasts that this growth will continue, with some larger markets like the UK, Mauritius, Germany, France, Ireland, Canada and Thailand already open to those South Africans who are fully vaccinated.
City Lodge Hotel Group Chief Operating Officer, Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo, said during the height of the pandemic and under strict lockdown levels, the group was highly dependent on leisure travellers. “These are people who have been cooped up under hard lockdown, wanting to shake off cabin fever. There were also domestic business travellers who were on the road performing essential services. They were on the lookout for good deals and more likely to book directly with our hotels and get the benefit of great promotions.”
With the return of government and business travel in earnest, she understands the desire to use travel agents, who play a very important role in the processing of travel arrangements. “Businesses and government are also looking for convenience, and the premium they pay travel agents is well worth it as they are paying for the add-on value that travel agents bring to their total travel requirements.”
Sangweni-Siddo says all channels must be cognisant of the tight budgets that business travellers will have to work with, coming out of an economically cash-strapped period brought about by the pandemic. “It is incumbent on all of us providing services and facilities to be sensitive to this, and to be prepared to manage the total costs offered to our clients in a manner that demonstrates price sensitivity and fairness so that all parties benefit from the offers out there.”
Otto de Vries, CEO of Asata, says the travel industry is riddled with challenges and problems and this has never been more obvious than in the past eighteen months. “Refunds, cancellation, ambiguous terms, unfair bias in consumer laws, zero income and uncertainty had to be navigated by the industry. Looking to the future, the travel adviser is best placed to help customers navigate these growing complexities and the challenge of ever-changing regulations and protocols.” Adds De Vries, “Travel confidence and anxiety have been and continue to be driven by government restrictions and policy uncertainty, but with a good travel adviser consumers can once again travel with peace of mind.”
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October 27, 2021 – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the debut of Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, the latest property from the modern lifestyle hotel brand, Hyatt Centric. The 264-room hotel attracts guests who are looking to explore the best of what Denver has to offer. In the heart of downtown, the destination-centric hotel debuts a new seasonally inspired restaurant, Apple Blossom, helmed by beloved local restaurateurs Paul C. Reilly and Aileen V. Reilly. Located at 1776 Champa Street, Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver is conveniently positioned near the city’s top destinations including the Colorado Convention Center, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Coors Field, Ball Arena, Union Station, and the bustling Larimer Square.
“We are so thrilled to bring this unique experience to the Denver market,” shares General Manager Colleen Huther. “This property fully embraces Denver’s booming cultural scene, from the locally inspired menu at Apple Blossom, to the murals from local artists, and meeting space with expansive views of North Downtown – we are truly bringing something special and shareworthy to travelers and locals alike.”
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a vibrant, colorful mural by local artist Megan Walker in the hotel’s driveway, blending themes of Denver’s urban life, Red Rock Amphitheatre’s music culture and Colorado’s renowned nature landscape into one vivid picture. Upon entering the hotel, a welcoming, spacious lobby adorned with energizing colors and glowing natural lighting offers the ideal gathering space for reconnecting, collaborating, planning, and unwinding. Locals and travelers alike are treated to music curated by local artist, Eric “Benny” Bloom of Grammy Award winning Lettuce, as they explore the hotel.
In true Denver fashion, the beloved owners of Denver’s Beast + Bottle and Coperta debut Apple Blossom, a chef-driven concept celebrating the best of America’s seasons with a focus on the agricultural bounty of local and regional ranchers, farmers and purveyors. Apple Blossoms’ signature dishes include Cowtown Beef Plate (a nod to Denver’s Stock Show heritage), Whole Grilled Rainbow Trout, Chef Fox’s Sweet Moon Pancakes at brunch, Apple Turnover with Buttermilk Ice Creamand Local Honey and more. Paying homage to sister restaurant Coperta, Apple Blossom offers an extensive house-made pasta program using Heritage Colorado grains. The beverage menu includes an all-American wine list, craft cocktails and ciders, with a tap system pouring select wine varietals and beer. The restaurant, located just off the hotel’s lobby, seats 68 guests with a 20-seat bar and lounge area and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Apple Blossom team also oversees room service, catering and banquets for the hotel.
The hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace boasts cityscape views, plush seating and outdoor fireplaces where guests can embrace Denver’s countless days of sunshine while enjoying small plates and drinks curated by Apple Blossom. With sliding-style doors, the space flows beautifully into a pre-function area where 2,530 square feet of flexible meeting space offers an upscale venue for groups of every size with unparalleled natural light. The penthouse level also plays home to the 975 square foot hospitality suite complete with a dedicated living area, spacious high-end dining table for eight, and a private rooftop terrace with mountain and city views. To complete the presidential floor experience, a 24-hour modern fitness center is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and features Peloton bikes looking onto the city.
Each Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver guestroom offers thoughtful, modern urban decor to reflect the personality and style of the city in which it resides. Guests can enjoy walk-in showers and an in-room work area, and those who opt for a high-floor space are treated to dramatic views. Guestrooms are completed with thoughtful high-end finishes including keyless entry and check-in, Drybar Buttercup hair dryers in every room, Hyatt Centric robes and BeeKind bath amenities. Additional amenities include a thoughtfully furnished lobby with areas for guests to work, meet, eat and lounge, fresh coffee services; lobby market for grab-and-go items, and valet options.
Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt’s multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhances its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt’s commitment can be found here: hyatt.com/care-and-cleanliness.
The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.
For further information:
About Hyatt Centric
Hyatt Centric is a brand of full-service lifestyle hotels located in prime destinations. Created for millennial-minded travelers who want to be in the middle of the action, Hyatt Centric hotels are thoughtfully designed to enable exploration and discovery. The lobby lounge is a launch pad providing guests with information about the most sought-after food, nightlife and activities the destination has to offer. The bar and restaurant are local hot spots where great conversations, locally inspired food and signature cocktails can be enjoyed. Streamlined modern rooms focus on delivering everything guests want and nothing they don’t, including BeeKind environmentally conscious bath products, Bluetooth-enabled electronics and salon-grade blow dryers. A team of colleagues is always available to recommend local hidden gems to launch guests’ discovery of the destination. For more information please visit hyattcentric.com. Follow @HyattCentric on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattCentricExplorer.
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Alexandrina Denysenko, a senior flight attendant with seven years of experience, says she sometimes does not get a spare minute to sit down during a flight and dreams of resting her swollen legs after spending hours wearing heels.
SkyUp Airlines, the privately-owned Ukrainian carrier that employs Denysenko, decided to put an end to heels and pencil skirts after collecting feedback from flight attendants about their uniform. The new SkyUp uniform for women now includes white Nike sneakers and a loose orange suit with trousers and a silk scarf, both made by Ukrainian brands. White T-shirts will replace blouses.
“Shoes on heels look beautiful, I do not argue with that, but feet suffer and swell by the end of the flight. Sneakers are absolutely cool,” Denysenko told Reuters.
“God forbid, but if a crew has to do a landing in water and an evacuation, heels can damage the ladder and it won’t be very comfortable to swim in a skirt,” she said.
The company said they researched the history of cabin crew uniforms and decided to ditch what they called “conservative” elements of a flight attendant’s look. Braids will now replace a tight-bun or pony-tail hairstyle.
“We found out that despite the fact that the image of a female flight attendant is very romanticized, their job demands a lot of physical training,” the head of the SkyUp Airlines marketing department, Marianna Grygorash, said.
The new uniform will be officially launched on October 22.
Grygorash said the company also plans to launch a new uniform for male crew. A light suit instead of a vest, and a T-shirt instead of a shirt will be combined with black Nike sneakers.
“If the whole world and all fashionistas wear sneakers, why not to bring it to aviation?” flight attendant Zoryana said.
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DOHA – Qatar Tourism has launched a new international multi-media campaign to drive forward the country’s tourism goals and cement its ambition to welcome more than six million visitors a year by 2030. The campaign features nine unique, engaging key chain characters designed to introduce travellers to the destination, which will roll out across 15 international core markets.
Under the tagline, ‘Experience a World Beyond’, Qatar Tourism will launch its latest development via a TV-led, multi-media campaign, featuring the voice of Indonesian singing sensation, Raisa. Six key chain characters introduce travellers to the variety of experiences that Qatar offers, with a further three, friendly local characters representing Qatari tour guides.
The global campaign is inspired by the insight that today, more than ever, international travellers want to engage in authentic experiences that will enrich their lives, rather than pose for the perfect Instagram picture. It brings to life that Qatar is an accessible introduction to the Middle East, blending cosmopolitan modernity and beautiful landscapes with Arabic traditions, cuisines and cultures.
Leading hospitality and travel safety is also at the heart of the campaign, as Qatar was named the world’s safest country by Numbeo’s 2020 Safety Index. Amongst the increasingly competitive Middle Eastern tourism industry, the uniquely friendly and familiar campaign is designed to stand out from the crowd, helping raise mass awareness of the country and its undiscovered potential.
The new advertising campaign reflects Qatar’s commitment to expanding its tourism proposition, in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. Qatar has already welcomed over two hundred thousand in-bound travellers since the country’s borders re-opened in July 2021.
A new website launched by Qatar Tourism, visitqatar.qa, is available in five languages and supported by a recently launched Personalised Travel Companion mobile app, designed to showcase the world-leading destination.
Qatar’s new tourism strategy puts the visitor at the heart of all new programmes and initiatives and will leverage the peninsula’s variety of existing experiences, while capitalising on a wave of new hotels, theme parks, shops and major leisure projects that have recently opened, or are set to launch, in the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM.
To drive significant growth in annual international visitor arrivals, Qatar Tourism has appointed travel representative agencies in the eight key source markets in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, DACH (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), Russia, China, India and the United States of America, as well as the addition of in-market sales managers in Australia and Turkey.
To aid knowledge and development for travel agents, Qatar Tourism’s travel agency training platform, TAWASH, has also been refreshed with a new interface design, content and training modules. The training platform supports Qatar’s mission to become a leader in Service Excellence. Designed to offer an improved learning experience, the upgraded programme functionality includes features such as interactive maps and knowledge check quizzes, alongside a new module structure to deliver an agile learning solution.
Agents can receive a ‘Qatar Expert’ certificate, which can be upgraded to ‘Qatar Specialist’ through completion of additional elective options. Learners who have already completed the former programme will automatically receive the ‘Qatar Expert’ level.
With the goal of raising tourism to 12% of GDP by 2030, Qatar will grow and improve assets and attractions, including the addition of 105 new hotels and serviced apartments to its extensive growing portfolio. The strategy will enhance the end-to-end customer experience and deploy a tailored marketing strategy to target point-to-point and stopover visitors.
Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “As we work towards realising Qatar’s mission of becoming a world-class tourism destination, our international markets team will be the driving force in engaging key travel trade in key regions.
“Our aim is to promote Qatar’s new value proposition to tour operators, online travel agencies and consumers. We welcome international travellers to the country to experience Qatar’s rich cultural heritage, unique hotels and resorts, incredible outdoor activities, beaches and multi-cultural culinary scene. In Qatar, visitors will truly Experience a World Beyond.”
Qatar is renowned for its warm hospitality and commitment to excellence, exemplified by its award-winning carrier Qatar Airways, which is the only airline to be voted World’s Best Airline six times by Skytrax. This is further complimented by the airline’s home and hub, Hamad International Airport, which was voted World’s Best Airport in 2021 by Skytrax. Such accolades further reinforces the country’s warm and hospitable reputation as it looks forward to welcoming tourists to the State of Qatar through a seamless journey.
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6 street food destinations you should visit – Are you a Foodie? This is the right place!
Forget gourmet restaurants, the best way to sample a destination’s cuisine is through its street food offerings, writes Clinton Moodley.
6 street food destinations you should visit
Mexico
Travellers to Mexico visit the country for its azure beaches, party spots and top-of-the-range resorts. But its street food is a winner, too.
Tamales, a traditional Mesoamerican dish steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf, is undoubtedly one of the popular dishes in Mexico. Travellers can find it at food vendors or restaurants across the country. Other popular options include tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, empanadas, nachos, fajita and tortas.
Thailand
Thailand is famed for its food markets and street vendors. When the destination fully reopens, you will find street vendors prepare meals in front of you, with plenty of options to choose from. Popular food includes pad thai, kaao laad kaeng (curry on rice), mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea.
A popular place to satisfy your street food craving is Yaowarat, also known as China Town, in Bangkok. Lined with market stalls, street-side restaurants and gold shops, China Town should be on every foodie’s bucket list.
Morocco
Morocco is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian and European cultural influences. The street food scene is flourishing. Harira, known as the national soup of Morocco, is one of the traditional meals you must try. The tomato-based soup is made with chickpeas and lentils.
There’s also the merguez, a grilled red, spicy mutton or beef-based sausage and sardines served with parsley and paprika. Morocco is the largest canned sardine exporter. For those with a sweet tooth, try their chebakia.
The pastry dough, created to look like a rose, is deep fried and poured with a syrup of honey and rosewater, finished with sesame seeds. Be sure to explore the streets of Fez, known as Morocco’s culinary capital.
South Africa
South African cuisine combines African, Asian and European elements. For the best street food experience, explore Durban. Indulge in a bunny chow, hollowed-out bread filled with a curry of your choice: mutton, chicken or beans.
Also, try the amagwinya (vetkoek), a deep fried savoury dough filled with mince or cheese. Many vendors serve this comfort food at street corners, but restaurants serve “gourmet” versions with additional combinations. Other notable mentions include koeksisters, boerewors, biltong and kota.
Bali
Bali is another Asian destination that thrills foodie travellers. Besides its spectacular views and array of temples, Bali is a destination packed with flavour. Popular street food items include sate (satay), a south-east Asian dish of seasoned, skewered and grilled meat; bakso, an Indonesian meatball with hot broth; and pisang rai, a boiled banana wrapped in rice flour and rolled in coconut.
India
India is known to offer some of the best street foods and the majority of them are vegetarian-friendly. Among their traditional meals is bhelpuri, a mixture of puffed rice, potatoes and roasted peanuts and pani puri, a crisp, hollowed puris with potato, moong and chickpeas.
Also try aloo tikki, a deep fried dish made with mashed potato, lentils and cottage cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, sink your teeth into a jalebi smothered in a sugary syrup. No trip is complete without trying some chai tea prepared by a chaiwala. Visit Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai for the best street food offerings.
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The Reykjavik Edition is opening in preview on November 9, 2021. The 253-room hotel has a lineup of bars, signature restaurant and nightclub, and introduces a new kind of modern social wellness concept.
The hotel is designed in partnership with local architecture firm, T.ark and New York-based studio Roman and Williams with the guidance of ISC (Ian Schrager Company). On a harborside perch, against mountain views, The Reykjavik Edition is adjacent to Harpa, the landmark concert hall and conference center, and just minutes from Laugavegur, the main shopping street in downtown Reykjavik. The clean lines of the hotel have been angled to make the most of the views and its lively harborside setting with a double-entrance lobby accessible either from the pedestrian Harpa plaza, or the Harbor. The latter is similar to The Times Square Edition, featuring a canopy. Its underside is illuminated by 12,210 glass LED nodes.
In the hotel’s lobby, basalt stone is prominent, appearing on the flooring, which has been laid with an intricate pattern inspired by Icelandic geometry, besides a sculptural reception desk. The lobby bar beverage menu focuses on global wines by the glass and classic cocktails with an Icelandic twist. The lobby lounge has a central open-flame fireplace, surrounded by seating and a collection of custom-made furniture in intimate seating groups, such as the Jean-Michel Frank-inspired armchair in white shearling and Pierre Jeanneret-inspired chairs in black velvet.
Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is also home to Tides, a restaurant with a private dining room and a café with homemade baked goods, and Tölt, an intimate bar that takes its cues from The London Edition’s Punch Room. Tides, which has an outdoor terrace and its own waterfront entrance, is helmed by Gunnar Karl Gíslason.
Breakfast is a mix of clean juices, pastries, fruit, cereal and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) supplemented by an à la carte menu of hot dishes and a selection of open-face sandwiches. For lunch and dinner, Gíslason serves modern Icelandic cuisine with a focus on seasonal local products mainly cooked over an open fire. Alongside an extensive wine list, guests can expect dishes such as a vertical salad topped with fried oyster mushrooms, aged soy sauce and roasted almonds; whole Arctic char stuffed with lemon, dill and garlic butter; baked Atlantic cod, grilled potatoes, mixed herbs and butter; and lamb shoulder braised and slowed grilled, pickled onions mint and apples. There is also a weekend brunch menu and for three nights a week, The Counter, overlooking the open kitchen, will serve an eight-course tasting menu with wine pairings for up to 10 people. Those looking for something more casual can pop into the bakery and café for a coffee and a selection of crowberry scones, sourdough or rye bread sandwiches for dine-in or take-away.
On the opposite side of the lobby, Tölt, named after the unique fifth gait Icelandic horses are best known for, is a cozy bar, designed with three intimate nooks where guests can enjoy a menu of cocktails inspired by Icelandic culture using local Icelandic spirits. The Roof is located on the hotel’s seventh floor and offers panoramic mountain, North Atlantic Ocean and old town vistas. It is a versatile space that can be divided by a glass door for private events. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a large wraparound seasonal outdoor terrace, scattered with comfortable seating and a large fire pit. Here, the casual vibe is supplemented by a small menu of comfort foods like grilled flatbreads, toasted sandwiches and fresh salads.
Each of the hotel’s 253 guestrooms and suites have their beds facing floor-to-ceiling windows, while some feature an outdoor terrace. The bathrooms with custom handmade white ceramic tiles made in Italy are furnished with a white marble vanity, matte black accessories and fittings alongside custom Le Labo toiletries of Edition’s exclusive scent. From its prime corner spot on the sixth floor, the one-bedroom Penthouse Suite, with its own private terrace has harbor, Harpa and mountain views that are complemented by bright interiors, an oversized bathroom and a central fireplace.
The lower ground floor is home to Sunset, opening later this year, a cool underground night spot with a sound system and theatrical lighting that illuminates a dark and edgy black concrete interior with a black cast concrete bar. Sunset can be divided into three spaces with access from the hotel and Harpa square. Along with a cocktail menu and an ongoing roster of events, the club will play host to top DJs and performers. There is also a private entrance.
The Spa has three treatment rooms, along with a hammam, steam room, sauna and plunge pool, which offers hydrotherapy; there is also a central lounge with a spa bar, which serves a healthy menu of post-workout Viking shakes, champagnes and moss vodka infusions alongside snacks like volcano bread with black lava salt. This can be enjoyed in the Geothermal water splash pool together with the 60-minute Sundown Spa treatment, which includes a body massage and a cool onyx scalp massage. The Spa is located directly opposite Sunset.
Also on the lower ground floor is a gym, which has strength training, weight and cardio equipment.
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