This Week In Travel

Photo by Helena Bay New Zealand

Busy week? Here's a list recapping some of the things you might have missed in the world of travel this week.

The Buzz

Seabourn has announced the Fall 2017 and Winter 2018 itineraries. There are 36 new trips and 96 different departures. (We know, so many options!) On the docket are trips to Australia and New Zealand through Rome, Dubai and other destinations. And in 2018,we like the sound of cruising a segment of the 152-day Great Oceans Exploration like the 38-day Atlantic Isles and Africa voyage. Check it out here.

More fashion fun is coming to Los Angeles. L’Eclaireur, the popular concept store in Paris, is coming to the states. The first location will be in sunny, fashionable L.A. with a mix of designs, art, furniture and more. Find out more here.

New Zealand is catching our traveling eye this summer. A new luxury lodge, Helena Bay, is set to open this November on the North Island. Think remote location with helicopter transfers, 800 acres of untouched coastline, private beaches, and a limit of 10 guests. Get the full story here.

When you decide to take the family on European vacation (but want to skip the National Lampoon-style chaos) book a stay in one of these classy, historical hotels. Each celebrates Europe’s deep history and triumphs. Case in point: The Pulitzer Amsterdam pays homage to Pulitzer-prize-winning books. Sweet. Check out our full list of suggestions here.

Strap on those tennis shoes, literally. Four Seasons Resort Maui is hosting the Wailea’s Tennis Fantasy Camp this November. Tennis players will be serving up some hits with tennis pro Justin Gimelstob. The camp includes four days of drills, instruction and tournaments. Get all the details here.

Not into tennis? How about skiing? Hotel Barrière is on track for a December 2016 opening. As a reminder, this is the old Hotel des Neiges that's receiving a major refresh courtesy of Group Barrière in Courchevel, France. The new Hôtel Barrière Les Neiges Courchevel is set to have 42 rooms and suites. Read the full story here.

Central and South America have new and old favorite hotels and resorts that will entice any traveler. Seriously, you’ll want to book a plane ticket just for the chance to stay at these resorts. 

Check out three retreats in Peru, including Inkaterra Hacienda UrubambaBelmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu and Colca Lodge, Colca Valley. Each has its own unique feel but all of these hotels celebrate the natural beauty of Peru. One allows easy access to Machu Picchu, another sits on a canyon and offers amazing views and the third is located in an area of lesser-known ruins – perfect for exploring. Discover the full story here

For those traveling to Mexico, there’s now a new hotel to stay at in Guadalajara. AC Guadalajara Hotel has opened and has new hotspots for guests to relax at, including the poolside lounge and infinity pool on the 12th floor open-air deck. While inside, travelers should unwind at the AC Lounge, complete with artisanal beers, specialty wines and more. Get the full story here.

We are looking inside the new W Punta de Mita. This hotel will please a wind range of guests with its funky design, top culinary options, and a Wet Deck with a pool, loungers and VIP cabanas. Get the latest here.

Sleeping in a castle should be on your buck list (if it’s not already). We recently took some time to sleep at two castles in Italy and they left us feeling well rested and like royalty. (Don't forget to pack your crown.) Check out these unique stays in Tuscany here.

It’s time to start planning the ultimate, off-the beaten-track trip to Central America. Dust off those hiking boots and pack your adventurous spirit and head to these less-known destinations in Nicaragua, Panama, Belize and Costa Rica. We’ve got first-hand tips on how to plan the most memorable vacation. Check out the full story here.

Want to travel somewhere closer to home? September is the prime time to visit New Orleans. There are several festivals to choose from in the Big Easy that will indulge you, including a beer festival that is also dog friendly! Need we say more? Discover all the details here.

Act Now

Book Crystal Cruises’ summer Cruise deal by August 31. Travelers get their choice of deals like fare savings of up to $1,000 per stateroom; up to $1,500 per stateroom in air credits for air travel booked through Crystal’s air department; or up to $2,000 per stateroom in shipboard credits. Get the details here

Did You Miss This?

Summer may be winding down, but Rome is a year-round destination, thank goodness. Check out these top suites in Rome, ranging from Hotel de Russie, the Fendi Private Suites and more. These suites are all about luxury with a fresh Italian twist and provide all the fabulous amenities. The only thing missing is a scoop of gelato. Read more here.

This weekend is the last big summer bash and so we wanted to remind you of some amazing summer experiences in the Big Apple. Check out how to summer in the city, before it’s too late! Here our all of our suggestions.

Summer Fun Deal

We hear you can wear white pants past Labor Day, and so you must be able to book a sunny getaway through September, too. We like the sound of the “Girls Getaway” package at The Chesterfield Palm Beach. This experience includes beauty treatments, shopping, plenty of bubbly and luxury accommodations. Yes, please. Find more information here

The Cover Take

The Tollmans make Red Carnation Hotels a home for guests and employees alike. That’s right, we sat down with Beatrice and Brett Tollman at their family farm in Connecticut to discuss the success of the family’s travel brands. Get the full story here.

 

- Always keep up with What You Need To Know on Luxury Travel Advisor -