Travel Professional - JUNE 01 2023

ACE HOTEL TORONTO

Where style meets service

Sunny days IN USA, CANADA & EUROPE

BIGGER NETWORK, BETTER SUMMER

Connect your clients to more North American cities this summer.

For travellers looking to pack it all in, Air Canada offers more flights than any other airline in the country, connecting your clients to more summer destinations across Canada and the U.S. With so many options to choose from, including service to all three of New York City’s major airports, the hardest part will be deciding where to fly first.

Learn more at aircanada.com

Tel: 416.365.1500

Toll-free: 1.855.392.8820 www.travelweek.ca

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While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this directory, Travelweek cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omission or inadvertent misrepresentations.

Publisher Devin Kinasz dkinasz@travelweek.ca

EDITORIAL

Editor Kathryn Folliott kfolliott@travelweek.ca

Deputy Editor

Cindy Sosroutomo cindys@travelweek.ca

ART/PRODUCTION

Graphic Designer

Jonathan Carmichael

Creative Director

Jason Gouveia jgouveia@travelweek.ca

Marketing Coordinator

Cindy Chen cchen@travelweek.ca

IT and Digital Coordinator

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VP Media & Content Strategy

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ADMINISTRATION

Accounting Marie Mercado travelweek@travelweek.ca

ENVOY

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The

DESTINATION

Going

Collette makes leisure travel fun, flexible and fit for all

Anantara Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi

EUROPE

Anantara Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi opens doors following renovations

As part of its ongoing expansion in Europe, Minor Hotels has opened Anantara Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi on Italy’s Amalfi Coast following an extensive restoration that includes new-look accommodations and refreshed dining concepts. The heritage hotel, which occupies a 13th-century monastery and former Cappuccini Friars Convent, offers 52 rooms and suites with tiled flooring, vaulted ceilings and lime-washed walls that have been carefully preserved. The suites have retained their vast terraces with plunge pools and sweeping views of the coast, while the resort’s swimming pool area has been redesigned with custom-made furniture. The Bar and Lounge area has been updated with contemporary lighting, statement rugs and low-slung furniture, and the main restaurant serving traditional Mediterranean cuisine and wood-fired pizza now boasts dramatic latticed metal dividers for a more intimate atmosphere. Anantara Spa has also reopened with a total of three treatment rooms offering healing therapies and beauty treatments.

anantara.com

Wellness takes centre stage at JW Marriott’s first property in Spain

JW Marriott has landed in Spain with the grand opening of JW Marriott Hotel Madrid. Marking the brand’s first property in the country, the 139-room luxurious new hotel is located in Madrid’s Canalejas zone, next to the iconic Puerta del Sol. Highlights include El Patio JW Garden where ingredients used by the restaurant are

grown, a fully-equipped fitness room and wellness area, and a fully holistic wellness experience launched in partnership with the Spanish Academy of Perfume that includes a choice of wardrobe scents, a perfumery exhibition in the lobby, and olfactory workshops. In addition, yoga mats and bath menus are available in all rooms and guests are given complimentary access to video workouts and meditation practices via QR codes. marriott.com

JW Marriott Hotel Madrid

First Mondrian hotel opens in France

Ennismore has launched the first Mondrian hotel in France –Mondrian Cannes. Located just seven minutes from the famous steps of the Palais de Festival, the property sits on the site of the first luxury hotel in Cannes, opened in 1863. Guestrooms embrace Art Deco furniture and a colour palette inspired by the ocean. On the sea-facing side, rooms and suites enjoy views of the ocean via wide French windows that open out onto private terraces. On the 11th floor, the Panoramic Room offers an outdoor terrace with a whirlpool tub, a sea-view bathroom and stunning views of the Bay of Cannes, while next door the Signature Suite comes complete with a spectacular terrace accessible from both the bedroom and lounge.

Other hotel highlights include Mr. Nakamoto’s restaurant featuring a menu created by London Chef Alex Craciun, and photography by artist Mathilde de l’Écotais. Adjacent to the hotel is Hyde Beach Cannes, headed by Chef Gabriele Faiella who trained with Chef Gordon Ramsay.

ennismore.com

TTC Tour Brands to host responsible travel FAM in Switzerland

TTC Tour Brands and Switzerland Tourism have teamed up to offer travel advisors a unique travel experience this summer. Taking place July 22-28, 2023, the ‘Swisstainable’ FAM trip will showcase offerings from TTC Tour Brands including Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold, all of which meet the sustainable standards of Switzerland Tourism and deemed ‘Swisstainable.’ Highlights include ‘MAKE TRAVEL MATTER’ Experiences across the brands such as a visit to the Swiss Transportation Museum courtesy of Luxury Gold, and a seasonal juice tasting with dinner at a sustainable restaurant with Insight Vacations. In Lake Geneva, advisors will also learn about Switzerland’s wine ecosystem with a tasting and lunch inspired by Luxury Gold.

agents.ttc.com

Air Transat announces year-round Marseille service

Air Transat is expanding its operations in the French market with two exclusive direct routes departing from Montreal. The airline is adding Marseille and the region of Provence to its roster of yearround destinations, and will also be extending nonstop service to Nantes. Flights that initially ended in the fall will now be operated until Jan. 24, 2024. Air Transat also annualized service to Lyon as demand for the French provinces increases. A total of seven French cities will be served nonstop this year, including three on a year-round schedule, namely Paris, Lyon and now Marseille. airtransat.com

Mondrian Cannes

Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Uniworld has new post-cruise extensions in Greece

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is expanding its portfolio in Europe to a new destination, adding two postcruise extensions in Greece. Guests can select a three-night extension to Athens or a five-night extension to Athens and Santorini, available as add-ons to Uniworld’s Italian itineraries: ‘Milan, Venice & The Jewels of Veneto,’ ‘Venice & The Jewels of Veneto’ and ‘Cruise & Rail: Venice & The Swiss Alps.’ The new Greece offerings join Uniworld’s existing portfolio of pre- and post-cruise extensions, including land, rail and customizable options.

The three-night extension includes a stay at the 5-star Divani Caravel hotel, dinner with a local in their home, a trip up to the Parthenon and a foodie tour of popular Greek treats. The fivenight option splits its time between Athens and Santorini and includes a Santorini village tour and wine tasting, a cruise around Santorini’s caldera and an Athens city tour. uniworld.com

Intrepid launches first standalone trip to Albania

Intrepid Travel has announced its first standalone trip to Albania. The new nine-day expedition begins in the capital Tirana before heading north to Lake Koman and down the coast towards Divjaka-Karavasta National Park for bird watching. Guests will also visit Berat, also known as the ‘town of a thousand windows.'

The itinerary is priced from US$1,600 per person and includes accommodation, ground transport, select meals and activities. Special highlights include two nights in a family-owned guesthouse by the Shala River, a farm-to-table dinner at Mrizi I Zanave farm, and a coffee reading in Babunje.

intrepidtravel.com

Auberge Resorts Collection now managing historic French chateau

Auberge Resorts Collection has been selected by Garance Primat to manage Domaine des Etangs. Located in the charming town of Massignac, France, the historic chateau is situated just three hours by TGV train from Paris Montparnasse, near Cognac and Angouleme, and served by the convenient Limoges airport nearby. The announcement kicks off Auberge’s expansion in Europe, which will be the brand’s main focus in 2023. The addition of Domaine des Etangs marks the second European property for the collection, which joins Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection in Santorini. In early 2024, Auberge will open Collegio all Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection in Florence, Italy, an iconic, Renaissance-era UNESCO World Heritage destination that will be reborn as an 82-room hotel located just three miles from the Duomo di Firenze. aubergeresorts.com

Credit Auberge Resorts Collection

Tirana, Albania

‘Stopover in Istanbul’ with Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines gives travellers the chance to discover one of the world’s most fascinating cities with its ‘Stopover in Istanbul’ program. Featuring lengthy transfer times, the program provides passengers connecting via Istanbul Airport with ample time to explore the city’s history and culture and free accommodation at partner hotels. It includes a one-night stay at a four-star hotel for those travelling in Economy class, and a two-night stay at a five-star hotel for those in Business class. Passengers looking to extend their stopover in Istanbul can take advantage of Turkish Airlines prices at contracted hotels.

Turkish Airlines offers six weekly direct service from Toronto, three weekly direct service from Vancouver, and three

weekly direct service from Montreal to its hub in Istanbul, connecting Canadians to 128 countries worldwide.

turkishairlines.com

New travel company GeoCultura offers geology-focused holidays

A new travel company, GeoCultura, has launched specialty holidays and geology tours for the curious traveller, all commissionable to travel agents at 15%. Founded by a group of well-travelled friends, the company, now in its first full year in business, offers expert- and scientist-led trips in the U.K., Europe and the United States that focus on the history of the earth and local culture. A total of 19 tour departures are scheduled to depart in 2023, with small groups of no more than 14 guests.

Graham McTavish tapped to host Avalon’s next Storyteller cruise

Avalon Waterways has announced a new Storyteller Series cruise for 2024. The eight-day ‘Kiltn’ It: Facts, Fiction & Fairytale Settings on the Rhine with Graham McTavish’ takes travellers through Switzerland, France, Germany and Holland on the Rhine River. It will be hosted by Graham McTavish, known for his roles in ‘Outlander’ and ‘The Witcher.’ ‘Highlights include special meet-and-greets, intimate lectures and performances.

agentlingo.ca

“GeoCultura are specialty holidays for travellers who want to delve deeper and broaden their knowledge of a destination. There is plenty of time for questions and discussion and with most meals included in the tour price, meeting new people and sharing new experiences is the core of the holidays,” says CEO Pamela Foden.

“Drawn from the fields of geology, science, communication and history, GeoCultura’s tour leaders encourage travellers to go deep – often all the way into the geologic substrate of ap lace, illuminating the role of earth history in culture and society.”

geoculturaworld.com

Rheinstein Castle, Germany

Warrior Women

The Rockies

Join Indigenous women as they weave the stories of their heritage on this experience that brings together tradition, dance, music and culture.

Only with Luxury Gold.

Christina Heeren Foundation

Seville, Spain

Preserves local dance traditions, protects significant heritage sites and promote cultural pride, while supporting local educational access.

Only with Insight Vacations.

Ol

Pejeta Conservancy Visit Kenya

Home to the world’s last two Northern White Rhinos, over 110 critically endangered black rhinos and chimpanzees rescued from the black market. Only with Trafalgar.

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Style Statement

Hotel Toronto

BY CINDY SOSROUTOMO

he stairs leading up from the lobby to the second floor reads “Not for one but for everyone,” a single word affixed to each step. It’s somewhat of a grandiose claim, certainly, but here at Ace Hotel Toronto, it’s one that imbues the entire guest experience.

Checking in with my husband and eightyear-old daughter, I worry that we’d stick out like sore thumbs. After all, the hotel, opened in summer 2022 and marking Ace Hotel’s debut in Canada, sits squarely in Toronto’s uber-hip Garment District, known for its second-hand shops and dive bars and not necessarily for any kid-friendly extra-curriculars.

But no one gives us a second glance, not the dozen or so millennials glued to their laptops and cell phones in the lobby, or the older couple checking in ahead of us who’s in town visiting their daughter. It’s not like anyone’s ignoring us, per se – in fact, the front desk clerk goes out of his way to warmly greet us and personally escort us to the elevator. It’s just that everyone is politely minding their own business, giving each other space to do their own thing, a laidback approach that’s very much in line with the hotel’s overall vibe.

You see it in the exterior architecture right away. Built from the ground up at the juncture of Camden and Brant Streets, the 14-storey, red-brick building looks, well, old, despite being brand new. Reminiscent of the many turn-of-the-century factories and warehouses that made the neighbourhood a textile hub in the early 1900s, Ace Hotel Toronto from the outside looks modest, ordinary even, the sleek wooden archway above the entrance being the only giveaway to the building’s acute nod to style. Nothing about its outward appearance hits you over the head in an

Ace

is deceptively stylish, built as a throwback to the city’s industrial boom

obvious way – not like the glitzy, glassy and modern exteriors of Toronto’s other hotel hotspots. With its subdued and stoic façade, it makes you wonder just enough what lies beyond the front door.

“At Ace, we always look to a city’s history to inform the design ethos for each project,” says Brad Wilson, Partner and CEO of Atelier Ace/Ace Hotel Group. “Our design partners, Shim-Sutcliffe Architects, wanted the building to feel like an organic addition to the neighbourhood. With their use of Canadian materials, including red brick and Douglas fir, and inspiration taken from the Garment District factories in the area, the hotel seamlessly integrates into the surrounding landscape of brickand-beam warehouses.”

While the outside leans heavily into the industrial look, the inside is a retro wonderland of vintage furniture, warm woods and incredible curvilinear details, a running theme that carries you from room to room. Curves are everywhere in the lobby – the rounded edges of the front desk, The Lobby Bar’s bar top, the bar stools, banisters and side tables – but nowhere is this more apparent than upward, to the massive steel-edged concrete arches that stand like soldiers, from lower level to ceiling, along the entire length of the room. Designed to be a signature feature, they add gravitas to

the space, a modern calling card that will make Ace Hotel Toronto instantly recognizable and Instagrammable. And yet despite all the concrete, both on the walls and ceiling, there’s a warmth to the ground floor that immediately puts you at ease. Red oak accents soften the starkness of the grays, as do the abundance of oversized glass windows that offer unobstructed views of the playground across the street. Colours are subdued and muted, save for the odd jewel-toned cushion and potted plant, allowing the earthiness of the Douglas fir flooring to really permeate the space.

Everything feels old and modern, hard and soft, cool and warm, a mish-mash of textures and materials that has a nearinstant calming effect. As far as first impressions go, Ace Hotel Toronto makes a lasting one, with a vibe and a style all its own.

THE ROOM

Opening the door to our guestroom, I’m first struck by colour. Hallway walls painted in deep burgundy and rust brown, coupled with the bright amber of Douglas fir wall panelling and flooring, make for a 70s throwback that feels tasteful and current. Like the ground floor, the ceiling is concrete, and walls are minimal-ecru with just a single piece of blackand-white canvas art hanging above one of the double copperframed beds. Custom quilts designed by Canadian artist Kyle Parent are reminiscent of those passed down from generations ago, while the honey-coloured wooden benches and desk serve as subtle nods to Canadiana and cabin culture.

The unfussiness of the room gives way for the standout star to shine – wood-panelled window boxes designed by Atelier Ace that perfectly frame the surrounding neighbourhood and park below. And to make sure you take the time to enjoy the view, a leather-cushioned window seat basks in the sunlight, an open invitation if I ever saw one.

Alder

The 70s retro vibe carries into the bathroom with its whitetiled walls, flooring and tub that’s so deep my daughter needs to be hoisted into it. Curves once again are in abundance here, in the copper-rimmed mirror and the ultra-cool curvature of the wood vanity, which match the rounded edges of the headboards in the other room. It’s a seamless transition between the two spaces, tied together by an aesthetic that highlights both nature and man-made materials.

And as with all hotels that appeal to a younger crowd, the guestroom offers a bit of fun and quirk, too. A vintage radio and record player are complimentary for guests to enjoy, along with the few old school records ranging from 80s hip hop to 70s folk. Doubling as room décor, both musical accoutrements are never-before-seen oddities for my young daughter, who wastes no time playing DJ and organizing an impromptu dance party to celebrate our arrival.

THE FOOD

It’s only when you descend the stairs from the lobby to Alder, Ace Hotel Toronto’s wood-fired restaurant, that you notice the Lobby Bar is actually hung by steel rods from the concrete ceiling, a floating platform meant to resemble a wooden tray. ‘Cool’ would be an understatement, for sure. But this revelation is simply a precursor to what will be one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in recent memory.

Headed by famed Toronto chef Patrick Kriss, owner of such culinary stalwarts as Alo and Aloette, also in Toronto, Alder feels more grounded than the light and airy Lobby Bar above, anchored by the base of the building’s concrete arches and weighted down by laid-in brick flooring. But this isn’t to say the space lacks warmth; it has it in spades thanks to an open kitchen where a wood-fired hearth and grill are clearly visible. The fact that Alder is both a tripleand single-heighted space also helps – with plenty of light pouring in from the lobby, it never runs the risk of feeling like a basement half-buried in the earth.

We are promptly seated at our table by the hostess and given menus. It is while we’re debating between the Braised Short Rib and the Australian Lamb that Garrett, our excellent server, first introduces himself. He tells us that Alder is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that focuses on family-style plates, that all mains are cooked over a wood fire, and that unlike Chef Kriss’ other Toronto eateries, this

one is more laidback, a departure from the intensity of fine dining. He also tells us that we must absolutely try the Endive Salad, an odd recommendation, I think, since it’s just a salad.

Spoiler alert: it’s not just a salad. In fact, this salad is everything, sweet and tangy with the satisfying crunch of candied pecans, the saltiness of pecorino romano, and the sourness of pickled grapes. It’s the kind of dish that you come back for, complemented by an all-star supporting cast of plates like the popular Tempura Shishito Peppers (crunchy, crispy and perfectly shareable), the Ricotta Ravioli (beautifully buttery and rich), and the Grilled Octopus (insanely good and tender soft). And there’s no better way to end such a meal than with a huge helping of Coconut Cream Pie, generously topped with chocolate shavings and lined with a delicious macaroon crust.

Though the food at Alder is what people come for, the service is what makes them want to linger. No less than five different servers make an appearance at our table at some point during dinner, to either bring us our drinks, top up our waters or clear our plates. Like a wellchoreographed waltz, the wait staff gives a master class in synchronicity and service, never faltering or failing to share a kind word. And despite being the only party there with a young child, at no point did we ever feel out of place, a testament to Alder’s convivial spirit.

THE GOODBYE

After a very restful sleep and a pastry-laden breakfast at a nearby French bakery, it is with heavy hearts and dragging feet that we check out of the hotel the next morning. The front desk clerk asks my daughter if she’d like to keep our cardboard key card as a souvenir, to which she replies with an enthusiastic “yes.” It seems that the hotel has left just as much of an impression on her as it has on me.

Though it’s definitely a bittersweet feeling to go, I also know with absolute certainty that I’ll be back to sample late-night fare at the Lobby Bar and enjoy views and cocktails at Evangeline on the 14th floor, both of which we failed to do this time around. It’s a promise I make to myself right then and there, with one final gaze upward to those formidable concrete arches, to return to Ace Hotel Toronto again and again.

AMERICA’S PLAYGROUND

Though known for its beaches, Atlantic City offers much more beyond its shores

LUCK BE A LADY! Atlantic City is home to nine casino resorts with more than 17,500 hotel rooms.

WAY BACK WHEN…

ATLANTIC CITY’S BEACHES are renowned for hosting music festivals each summer, including Adjacent Festival and TidalWave Musical Festival

Atlantic City is accessible via PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (PHL), located within 60 miles of the city.

ATLANTIC CITY is best known for its world-famous Boardwalk, casinos and free beaches that span 5 miles long

Resorts Atlantic City became the first casino hotel in Atlantic City in 1978.

TOP

FOR THE BEST VIEWS climb the 228 STEPS OF ABSECON LIGHTHOUSE, which at 171 FEET TALL is New Jersey’s tallest.

For the best LUXURY SHOPPING, head to THE QUARTER at TROPICANA ATLANTIC CITY and SHOPS AT THE ROW at OCEAN CASINO RESORT

For more information go to touratlanticcity.com

SAIL AWAY with ATLANTIC CITY CRUISES, which offers exclusive tours of ATLANTIC CITY’S SKYLINE and DIVERSE WILDLIFE

3 FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

3. ABSECON LIGHTHOUSE

2. Lucky Snake Arcade

1. STEEL PIER

Beach Concerts

Atlantic City Boardwalk

Absecon Lighthouse

All photos credit Visit Atlantic City

Drums of the Pacific Luau, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

USA & CANADA

New family offer at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa’s new ‘Ultimate Maui Family Vacation Offer’ is perfect for families looking to experience authentic Hawaii together. Priced from US$1,360 for two adults, the offer includes: daily breakfast buffet at Swan Court; daily lunch in ‘Umalu per person, including drinks; daily dinner in ‘Umalu, Japengo or Son’z Steakhouse with custom menus (reservations required); Hertz Full-Size Car daily rental (pickup/drop off at Kahului Airport); one ticket per person to Drums of the Pacific Luau; one ticket per person to the Tour of the Stars activity; daybed reservation for one day; daily self-parking; and daily resort fee.

The offer must be booked at least 21 days in advance, and can be cancelled 21 days prior to 11:59 p.m. local time the day of arrival. A credit card deposit is required upon booking as well as arrival flight information. There is a fee per additional guest and a six-night minimum. hyatt.com

Bellagio to fully transform Spa Tower guestrooms

Bellagio in Las Vegas has unveiled plans for a US$110 million transformation of all rooms and suites within its luxurious Spa Tower. Encompassing 819 guestrooms and 104 suites, the renovation is slated for completion in October 2023, with the first collection of rooms available for guest stays

beginning in July. The renovated rooms will feature Italian light fixtures, custom TV armoires and vanities and curvilinear sofas. Upon completion, the Spa Tower guestrooms will mirror the Bellagio Tower’s recently redesigned rooms. In 2024, resort-wide guestroom enhancements will culminate with the redesign of the Bellagio Tower’s 400 suites.

mgmresorts.com

One Bedroom Penthouse, Bellagio

Canopy by Hilton makes Canada debut in Toronto

Canopy by Hilton has officially arrived in Canada with the opening of Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville. The 184-room boutique hotel opened its doors on Feb. 16, 2023 with a sleek indoor pool, a fitness centre featuring local street art, and 3,500 square feet of meeting space. Designed by Studio Munge, the property also boasts two on-site dining options: Día, which offers Roman-style pizza and a signature wine program as part of Canopy’s bespoke evening tastings, and Virtu Café & Provisions, featuring locally-inspired dishes. hilton.com

New ‘edutainment’ experience lands at Kennedy Space Center

Snoopy and other Peanuts characters have landed at the Universe Theater sponsored by Northrop Grumman at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The beloved characters are starring in ‘All Systems Are Go!’, an immersive experience featuring puppetry, lights and sounds where guests assist with the next NASA mission

– Artemis. From training for the mission to testing the Orion spacecraft, this 20-minute adventure is full of education and imagination.

Just 45 minutes from Orlando, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. The new two-day ticket, which can be used for up to six months from purchase and averages to a cost of less than US$45 per day, is now available for $89 per adult and $79 per child. Single-day admission is $75 per adult and $65 per child.

KennedySpaceCenter.com

Air Canada has the most nonstop flights to the USA

Air Canada is making it easier than ever for travellers to explore the USA this summer. The airline offers 400 daily flights a day between Canada and the United States, with more nonstop flights to the most U.S. destinations than any other carrier. Air Canada’s partnership with United Airlines allows for easy connections to cities from coast to coast, including two new routes for summer 2023 with a United-operated flight between Washington-Dulles and Calgary, and an Air Canada-operated flight between Washington-Dulles and Vancouver.

With the addition of flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport, which began back in March 2023, Air Canada now offers service into all three of New York City’s major airports (LaGuardia, Newark and JFK). Also new for summer 2023 is yearround service between Toronto and Sacramento starting June 1, in addition to a number of transborder flight resumptions including VancouverAustin, Montreal-Nashville, TorontoSalt Lake City and Toronto-Portland. aircanada.com

Credit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Gateway Deep Space Visitor Complex

Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville, Lobby rendering

Element and Le Méridien team up for new dualproperty in Utah

Element Hotels and Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts have opened Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown and Elements Salt Lake City Downtown in Utah. The dual-branded property marks the first Le Méridien in Utah, and the first hotel with an expansive rooftop bar in the city. Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown features 144 rooms and suites with floor-toceiling windows, while Element Salt Lake City Downtown offers 126 sustainable rooms and suites with fully-equipped kitchens and spa-like bathrooms. marriott.com

IHG debuts first Vignette Collection hotel in the Americas

IHG Hotels & Resorts has debuted the Vignette Collection – the newest brand in its Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio – in the Americas with the opening of Yours Truly DC. Nestled within Dupont Circle, the 355-room Yours Truly, like all Vignette Collection hotels, was inspired by a ‘bohemian-meets brutalist’ style, with velvety furniture, colourful styling and artwork by national and local artists. At El Donut Shoppe, located off the hotel’s lobby, guests can borrow rare records to spin on their in-room turntable. They can also indulge in South American cuisine at Mercy Me restaurant and bar, and enjoy exclusive offers and perks from neighbouring small businesses via the Yours Truly Small Business Collective. Additional hotel amenities include a modern barber shop, a gym and 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

vignettecollectionhotels.com

Stay protected with Manulife when travelling in Canada

Travel insurance is a must nowadays, even when travelling within Canada. Under the Canada Health Act, the national health insurance program is designed to ensure that “all residents of Canada have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital and physician services on a prepaid basis.” But each province and territory has its own rules about insurance coverage, which means Canadians may have to pay for costs not included in their own provincial or territorial coverage.

Private health insurance plans can cover health services not included in provincial or territorial plans. The Manulife Global Canada Medical Plan, for example, offers benefits of up to $5 million to cover expenses for: emergency treatment; paramedical services; ambulance transportation; emergency dental treatment; emergency medical evacuation home; additional expenses for meals and hotel; return home of vehicle; hospital allowance; child care; and more. manulife.ca

Element Salt Lake City Downtown

Yours Truly DC

Vogue Hôtel Montréal, Curio Collection by Hilton opens doors

Artifact Group has announced the opening of the completely reimagined Vogue Hôtel Montréal, Curio Collection by Hilton following a multi-million-dollar transformation. Nestled in the heart of Montreal’s Golden Square Mile, the hotel –the first Curio Collection by Hilton property in Canada – features a new two-storey glass and steel façade that allows light to pour into the main level and mezzanine, as well as a new Japanese restaurant, YAMA, that offers a curated Sake menu and refined Latin-influenced Pan-Asian cuisine.

hilton.com

Porter to offer yearround service between YOW and YYG

Porter Airlines has confirmed plans to fly year round between Ottawa and Charlottetown. The direct service begins with 11 weekly flights before increasing to 14 weekly roundtrips during the summer peak season. As of Oct. 29, 2023, the route will increase to daily through the winter. With the service, Porter now flies to all Atlantic provinces for the first time. flyporter.com

Four Seasons Hotel Boston adds touch of whimsy to redesign

Four Seasons Hotel Boston has reopened its doors following a dramatic redesign of its arrival area, lobby and porte cochere. Years in the making, the hotel’s transformation draws inspiration from the elegant homes of neighbouring Beacon Hill and Back Bay. Guests are now greeted in a black-and-white-tiled entry court before entering a lobby complete with a mural of swan boats gliding under a foot bridge. Upon closer inspection, one swan is holding a key, a clue to a hidden mystery closet next to the front desk. Upon their arrival, young guests are handed a ‘kids-only’ key to the closet where they can select their own toys for an enchanting beginning to their stay.

Other highlights of the redesign include Coterie, a new lounge and restaurant open daily for dinner (with lunch to follow soon), the Library where guests can select from the bookshelves and enjoy a classic cocktail, and Aujourd’hui, a second-floor breakfast and lunch restaurant with its hallmark floor-to-ceiling windows that frame Boston’s Public Garden. fourseasons.com/boston

EXOTICCA

And its VP of Sales – Canada, Mike Quinto

“We pay travel agents top commission on everything, including 10%-16% on all classes of air service. We have no non-commissionable components. They can book online via our agent portal or call our reservation centre, open 24/7.”

Exoticca was launched in 2012 in Barcelona, Spain, specializing in small group and private tours around the world at affordable price points.

THE COMPANY LAUNCHED IN CANADA IN 2021 amid the pandemic. Since then, it has seen over 400% growth year over year and boasts a 4.5/5 rating on TrustPilot with over 15,000 certified client reviews.

Exoticca visits over 60 countries and offers over 300 itineraries.

TOP-SELLING DESTINATIONS FROM CANADA for summer 2023 include Portugal, Italy, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Greece, Peru and the Galapagos. More dates have been added following a 200% increase in volume to these destinations.

A typical Exoticca tour includes international airfare, hotels, transfers, sightseeing with local guides, daily breakfast with a few other meals, internal airfare, transportation and more.

“THE EXOTICCA NAME comes from the belief that everyone deserves to travel to exotic, far-flung destinations, and they can do so in a comfortable manner without having to spend a fortune.”

For more information go to exoticca.com/ca/travel-advisors

“Typically group tours are pre-set itineraries with very little flexibility. We are the complete opposite. With Exoticca, you pick out the flights, the itinerary, the sites, hotel style and more, all at extremely competitive pricing.”

Sahara Desert, Morocco

Santorini

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Amari Raaya Maldives Overwater Villas

LUXURY

Amari Raaya Maldives opens with island and overwater villas

Opening this summer is Amari Raaya Maldives, the second Maldives hotel opened by ONYX Hospitality Group. Situated on one of the largest natural islands in Raa Atoll, and located 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, the resort offers 187 villas on the island and overwater, seven dining options, a Maai Spa and facilities for young children and teenagers. Families and groups can opt for a Family Beach or Family Beach Pool Villa with two inter-connected villas and a shared private outdoor living space. Special opening rates start at US$594 per night, including breakfast for two in a Beach Villa.

amari.com

Opening in late 2023: Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

Coming in late 2023 is Velas Resorts' Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos. The brand new, adultsonly boutique hotel will mark the brand’s third property in Los Cabos and will feature 79 spacious suites, all spanning 900 square feet with a private terrace, living area, Jacuzzi, daily stocked premium minibar and 24-hour personal concierge. Situated beachfront, the property will also offer

casual and fine dining restaurants, tequila and mezcal tastings, a wellness centre, infinity pool and a private beach area. And as a special perk, guests will enjoy access to sister property Grand Velas Los Cabos’ five gourmet restaurants and four bars at no additional charge.

Room rates start at US$408 per person, per night, double occupancy. Gourmet meals, premium branded beverages, 24-hour insuite services, nightly entertainment, taxes, gratuity and more are all included in the nightly rate.

loscabosboutique.grandvelas.com

Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

Now open: JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

JW Marriott has officially entered the luxury safari segment with the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge. Situated within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, the lodge features 20 private tents overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. Perfect for honeymooners, the tented honeymoon suite even offers a private plunge pool, while two interconnecting king and twin suites provide families with children over the age of six (the minimum age of guests at the lodge) with ample space.

Other highlights include the cozy Adventure Lounge full of books, the Cultural Deck where guests can gather around the fire pit, the Spa by JW offering signature treatments, and the JW Garden where fresh herbs and ingredients are grown and picked for daily dishes. There’s also the Fig Tree lounge featuring panoramic views, Sarabi Restaurant with its indoor and alfresco areas, as well as live cooking, interactive cocktail mixology classes and chef-led talks that guests can participate in. marriott.com

Beach Enclave Turks & Caicos joins Virtuoso network

Beach Enclave Turks & Caicos has been accepted into Virtuoso’s portfolio of luxury travel partners. With three distinctive locations on Providenciales and villa accommodations ranging from two to seven bedrooms, Beach Enclave includes private, spacious villas for extended family getaways as well as intimate beach houses for couples and smaller families. Discreet, personalized service is a central part of the Beach Enclave experience, with each home attended to by a full-time butlers.

virtuoso.com

Nobu Hotels opens first property in Africa

Nobu Hotels has landed in Africa with the opening of Nobu Hotel Marrakech, its first venture in the continent. An all-suite property located in the heart of Marrakech’s ‘Golden Triangle,’ the hotel is home to 71 spacious suites, a Nobu Restaurant and Bar, and a panoramic rooftop with a pool, restaurant and sushi bar. Suites are split across three floors, each embodying the Japanese concept of ‘Kokoro,’ the spiritual connection with the destination. The Nobu Restaurant and Bar boasts its own private entrance, DJ deck and poolside terrace, and is where guests can enjoy signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, all created by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. And considered one of the most expansive spas in any Nobu Hotel, the Pearl Spa offers an impressive 2,000 square metres of space that include a heated indoor pool, hammams, Jacuzzis, steam baths, saunas, a gym and a VIP Spa Suite. marrakech.nobuhotels.com

Nobu Hotel Marrakech

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, Fig Tree Lounge

The new Sandals Dunn’s River now open

Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, Jamaica made its highly anticipated return to the Sandals portfolio on May 24, 2023 as a fully renovated resort. The all-new, 260-room property now boasts brand new Tufa SkyPool Butler Suites featuring glass panels that span the length of oceanfront balconies, and reimagined Coyaba Swim-Up Rondoval Butler Suites with Private Pools, now featuring open-air rooftops with private soaking tubs.

Culinary offerings at the resort now include 12 Global Gourmet restaurants, with 10 concepts entirely new to Sandals. These include L’Amande, a fusion of French and Jamaican fare, Edessa, Sandals’ first Greek concept, and Banyu featuring an Asian-fusion

menu. Guests can also enjoy nine bars, including Dunn’s Rum Club where guests can sample the island’s signature libation while playing a game of dominoes, and the rooftop bar Ocarina, a ‘Sandals

Raffles Hotels & Resorts launches new wellness concept

Raffles Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of ‘Retreat by Raffles’ at select locations. The signature retreat program will debut at Raffles Singapore and Raffles Bali, which joined the portfolio in 2021. At Raffles Bali, chakra balancing, sound bowl therapy, meditation in a secret cave, yoga and reiki healing will all be offered by community experts. At Raffles Singapore, butlers can organize a sound healing experience with gongs and singing bowls at a private Peranakan home museum, and guided walks within the Singapore Botanical Gardens. Guests also enjoy unlimited access to the hydrothermal facilities at Raffles Spa. raffles.com

First’ in Jamaica. Other highlights include water features sourced from Dunn’s River Falls, five swimming pools, and the Red Lane Spa.

sandals.com

New Four Seasons coming to Taipei

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Yuan Lih Construction Co., Ltd. have announced plans for a new luxury hotel in the heart of Taiwan’s capital. Located in the Xinyi District, directly opposite to Taipei 101 skyscraper, Four Seasons Hotel Taipei will offer 260 light-filled rooms across 31 stories, a high-end Chinese restaurant, destination bar, specialty restaurant, all-day restaurant, pool bar and lobby lounge. Surrounded by expansive glass panelling on both sides of the tower, the highest floors will offer wraparound views of the city and mountain ranges. Other highlights include an executive club lounge, fitness centre with an outdoor pool and spa, meeting and event spaces including a grand ballroom and junior ballroom, and ground level garden space. Four Seasons Hotel Taipei will be located approximately a one-hour drive from Taoyuan International Airport, and 20 minutes from Songshan Airport. An opening date has yet to be announced. fourseasons.com

Sandals Dunn's River

Raffles Singapore

Credit Sandals

Credit Raffles

AROUND THE WORLD WITH COLLETTE

The tour operator makes leisure travel fun, flexible and fit for all

Guests on ‘Montana: Exploring Big Sky Country’ spend 2 nights in Yellowstone National Park

Montana, USA

Collette is the longest-running tour operator in North America, founded in 1918.

170 TOURS ARE AVAILABLE TO BOOK TO DESTINATIONS ACROSS ALL 7 CONTINENTS. THERE ARE 5 TRAVEL STYLES TO CHOOSE FROM: Classic, Explorations, Spotlight, Cruising and Faith

All 40+ EXPLORATIONS tours include a visit to social enterprises, nonprofits and cultural or environmental conservation groups

La vita bella! Collette offers 8 different tours to Italy.

On each Spotlight tour, guests unpack only once, staying at just 1 CENTRALLY LOCATED HOTEL

ON THE ‘TREASURES OF EUROPE’ TOUR, GUESTS TRAVEL 1,167 MILES FROM LONDON TO ROME OVER 14 DAYS.

‘The Complete South Pacific’ tour spans 27 days, allowing for full exploration of Australia and New Zealand.

For more information go to gocollette.com

Tuscany, Italy

Milford Sound, New Zealand

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