…several long-anticipated debuts, the reinvention of iconic landmark properties, and bold new concepts that redefine how—and where—we experience place.

For the third year running, we’re taking a global look at the hotels shaping the future of luxury travel. And while each year it seemingly becomes more challenging to narrow the list of top openings down, this year’s was a true feat with several long-anticipated debuts, the reinvention of iconic landmark properties, and bold new concepts that redefine how—and where—we experience place. From Riviera retreats to imaginative rewilding camps across Africa and design-forward urban sanctuaries in top cities, the world’s most exciting new addresses fuse architecture, storytelling, and service in a way that moves our cherished industry forward.

Whether you’re a loyalist waiting on the next jewel in your favorite brand’s portfolio or an explorer seeking something wonderfully unexpected, these twenty-six openings promise thoughtful design, sense-of-place designed programming, and access to exclusive privileges unlocked when booked with your SmartFlyer advisor.

Use the navigation below to jump to the region that’s calling your name next:

UNITED STATES

CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA

CARIBBEAN AND MEXICO

AFRICA

ASIA

EUROPE

AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

MIDDLE EAST

2026 NEW HOTELS: UNITED STATES

Delano Miami Beach (Miami Beach, Florida)

NOW OPEN

The legendary Delano Miami Beach returns to South Beach with an entirely new vision, completely transformed since closing in 2020. Reviving Philippe Starck’s iconic minimalism while layering in a modern Riviera-inspired lightness, the property will feature reimagined guest rooms, a refreshed poolscape, and reinvented F&B concepts befitting Miami’s new era of glamour. Its oceanfront setting, wellness-forward programming, and signature Delano energy make this a long-awaited homecoming for the curious and creative traveler.

The Knox Hotel & Residences, Auberge Collection (Knox Henderson, Dallas, Texas)

Projected Opening: Autumn 2026

Arriving in one of Dallas’ buzziest neighborhoods, The Knox introduces Auberge Collection’s residential-meets-hotel sensibility to Texas. Expect thoughtfully layered interiors, a vibrant culinary program anchored by a signature restaurant and bar, and light-filled accommodations designed to feel like impeccably curated homes. With a prime position in Knox Street’s thriving creative corridor, this debut promises to become the city’s integral to the social heartbeat of the city.

Viceroy Sun Valley (Sun Valley, Idaho)

Projected Opening: Autumn 2026

Set at the base of Dollar Mountain, Viceroy Sun Valley brings the first luxury hotel to one of America’s most storied ski destinations. The resort will pair Viceroy’s signature warm-modern design and intuitive service with trail-side access, après-ready gathering spaces, and a spa inspired by Idaho’s natural hot springs. Whether guests come for powder days, fly-fishing, or summer mountain biking, this new opening positions Sun Valley for a chic, year-round revival.

2026 NEW HOTELS: CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

Explora El Calafate (Patagonia, Argentina)

Projected Opening: December 2026

Explora’s newest Patagonian lodge, Explora El Calafate, is set near the famed Perito Moreno Glacier, bringing the brand’s expedition-forward ethos to one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Expect immersive treks, glacial explorations, and design that blurs the line between indoors and out. With guided experiences led by Explora’s expert team, this opening will serve travelers seeking elemental beauty paired with deeply thoughtful hospitality.

2026 NEW HOTELS: CARIBBEAN & MEXICO

Alila Mayakoba (Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico)

NOW OPEN

Alila’s arrival in Mayakoba marks a striking evolution for this beloved enclave. With a complete redesign emphasizing organic materials, lagoon-view suites, and contemporary Riviera Maya cuisine, the retreat highlights Alila Mayakoba‘s signature serenity and sustainability. Its integration with Mayakoba’s wellness circuit, culinary scene, and protected mangrove ecosystems makes this a standout for design-forward travelers.

Park Hyatt Mexico City (Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico)

Projected Opening: August 2026

Rising over Polanco’s cultural corridor, Park Hyatt Mexico City is set to become one of the capital’s most significant luxury openings. The sleek tower will feature 155 rooms and suites, a signature Park Hyatt dining collection, and an indoor–outdoor spa with sweeping Chapultepec views. This urban sanctuary promises to blend Mexico City’s creative pulse with refined Park Hyatt elegance.

2026 NEW HOTELS: AFRICA

Hoanib Elephant Camp (Kaokoland, Namibia)

NOW OPEN

Situated in Namibia’s remote northwest, Hoanib Elephant Camp will place guests at the heart of desert-adapted wildlife territory. Expect tented suites overlooking otherworldly landscapes, conservation-driven programming, and guided encounters with the region’s famed desert elephants. This is the kind of elemental, horizon-stretched Africa that adventure travelers dream of when they envision their bucket list trip to Namibia.

Singita Elela (Okavango Delta, Botswana)

Projected Opening: Late 2026

Singita’s long-anticipated debut in the Okavango Delta promises a game-changing entrance by the brand into Botswana. With water-encircled suites, cutting-edge sustainability design, and safari experiences guided by some of Africa’s top naturalists, Singita Elela is poised to become one of the continent’s most coveted openings. Expect Singita’s signature restorative calm, intuitive service, and landscape-first philosophy.

Wilderness Mara (Mara Triangle, Kenya)

NOW OPEN

Wilderness Mara marks the newest Kenyan camp anchored in one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense regions. Elevated design, panoramic views, and a modern interpretation of tented luxury create a front-row seat to the Mara’s year-round migrations. Emphasizing conservation partnerships and low-impact architecture, the property blends wilderness immersion with a polished, contemporary aesthetic.

2026 NEW HOTELS: ASIA

HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE (Kowakudani, Hakone Town, Japan)

Projected Opening: Late 2026

HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE brings Japanese artistry and ryokan heritage to a forested hillside overlooking Mount Sengen. With thermal waters feeding its expansive onsen, Yabu Pushelberg–influenced design, and a hushed refinement that celebrates craft, this hideaway captures the essence of slow, intentional travel. Its proximity to Tokyo paired with deep immersion in nature will make it a sought-after retreat.

The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)

Projected Opening: Late 2026

Housed in one of Bangkok’s most historic riverfront buildings, The Langham’s new flagship property reimagines a century-old landmark into a glamorous urban sanctuary. Interiors will pair Langham’s classic pink-hued elegance with contemporary Thai sophistication. Expect a destination spa, signature afternoon tea, and a riverside atmosphere that reflects Bangkok’s vibrant cultural rhythm.

Park Hyatt Phu Quoc (Phu Quoc, Vietnam)

Projected Opening: TBD

Spread across sixty-five acres of protected coastline, Park Hyatt Phu Quoc blends Vietnamese craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. Oceanfront villas, serene lap pools, and a culinary program rooted in island produce set the tone for quiet luxury. Designed as a sanctuary for families and couples alike, the resort promises barefoot ease paired with elevated Park Hyatt service.

2026 NEW HOTELS: EUROPE

Octant Vila Monte (Algarve, Portugal)

NOW OPEN

Octant’s new flagship brings bohemian-chic sophistication to the Algarve’s eastern coastline. Think whitewashed architecture, lush gardens, and design infused with Portuguese craftsmanship. With a focus on slow living, culinary immersion, and proximity to sun-drenched beaches, this opening promises escapism at its most elegant.

Zannier Île de Bendor (Île de Bendor, Bandol, France)

NOW OPEN

Zannier brings its poetic, minimalist aesthetic to a private island off the coast of Bandol. With just ninety-three rooms and suites designed to mirror the island’s natural textures, the property will blend the warmth and conviviality of Provencal lifestyle with the French Riviera’s vibrant spirit and social scene. Expect vineyard-to-table dining, Mediterranean calm, and the understated refinement Zannier loyalists adore.

The Grace (Westport, County Mayo, Ireland)

NOW OPEN

Set along Clew Bay, The Grace introduces a new era of contemporary Irish hospitality. The property will showcase views of Croagh Patrick, a destination spa inspired by Atlantic wellness traditions, and interiors that spotlight Irish makers and materials. It’s an elevated retreat for travelers craving elemental landscapes with a modern sensibility.

Corinthia Rome (Rome, Italy)

NOW OPEN

One of Rome’s most ambitious restorations, Corinthia Rome will bring new life to a historic government building moments from Via del Corso. Featuring suites shaped by classical Roman proportions, grand wellness spaces, and destination dining led by internationally renowned chefs, the hotel blends monumental architecture with warm modernity. It’s slated to become one of the Eternal City’s defining new addresses.

Baccarat Rome (Rome, Italy)

Projected Opening: 2027

Bringing its crystalline Parisian glamour to the Eternal City as only the brand’s second outpost, Baccarat Rome will reinterpret a storied palazzo through the brand’s unmistakable red-punctuated elegance. Expect shimmering chandeliers, haute-design suites, a jewel-box spa, and a restaurant that channels Baccarat’s celebratory spirit. It’s poised to attract design lovers seeking maximalist luxury.

Rosewood Rome (Rome, Italy)

Projected Opening: Early 2027

Rosewood Hotels’ highly anticipated Roman debut is set within the historic former headquarters of the Italian Social Security Agency. With a soaring central courtyard, refined suites, and culinary concepts rooted in Roman tradition, the property will marry heritage with Rosewood’s signature residential warmth. Expect polished romance and a new benchmark for luxury in the capital.

Na Praia (Comporta, Portugal)

Projected Opening: TBD

Set along the wild Comporta coastline, Na Praia is a study in effortless, sun-washed living. Organic architecture, sandy-toned suites, and a culinary program spotlighting local fishermen and farmers make this retreat quintessentially Comporta. With dunes, pine forests, and Atlantic breezes as its backdrop, this is barefoot luxury at its chicest.

Danieli, A Four Seasons Hotel (Venice, Italy)

Projected Opening: Summer 2026

Few openings have been as anticipated as Four Seasons’ takeover of the iconic Hotel Danieli. A meticulous restoration will bring new brilliance to its Gothic façade, opulent Sala Duca D’Aosta, and suites overlooking the Venetian lagoon. Elevated dining, a reimagined rooftop terrace, and Four Seasons’ signature service will usher this landmark into a dazzling new era.

Château de la Commaraine (Burgundy, France)

NOW OPEN

Set within a 1,000-year-old estate in Pommard, Château de la Commaraine will offer an immersive expression of Burgundy’s winemaking heritage. The restored château will feature just twenty rooms, vineyard-driven gastronomy, and exclusive access to the domaine’s storied Premier Cru plots. It’s an intimate, atmospheric escape for oenophiles and romantics alike.

COMO Le Beauvallon (Grimaud, Saint-Tropez, France)

NOW OPEN

COMO’s Côte d’Azur debut transforms a Belle Époque estate overlooking the Bay of Saint-Tropez. With just forty-two rooms and suites, the retreat blends Riviera glamour with COMO’s wellness-driven approach—think a world-class spa, yacht access, and elegantly understated dining. It’s poised to become a new staple of the French summer season.

Rosewood Blue Palace (Crete, Greece)

Projected Opening: Slated for 2027

Set along Crete’s cobalt coastline, Rosewood Blue Palace reimagines a beloved resort through a contemporary, island-chic lens. Suites cascade down toward the sea, each emphasizing light, texture, and tranquility. With Mediterranean dining, a next-level Asaya spa, and easy access to Spinalonga Island, this is the new jewel of the Greek isles.

Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch (London, United Kingdom)

Projected Opening: Autumn 2026

A landmark transformation years in the making, Waldorf Astoria’s takeover of Admiralty Arch will introduce one of the most architecturally significant hotels in Europe. Overlooking The Mall, the property will feature palatial suites, refined dining, and a spa concept that brings Waldorf’s timeless elegance into the heart of London. Dining also promises to be standout, with concepts from both Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud.

St. Regis London (London, United Kingdom)

Projected Opening: Autumn 2026

St. Regis’ London debut brings the brand’s legendary glamour to an exquisitely restored property near Buckingham Palace. Expect butler-attended suites, a signature champagne sabrage ritual, and design that celebrates London’s golden age. With its grand address and storied lineage, this opening is set to redefine modern British luxury.

2026 NEW HOTELS: AUSTRALIA

Ocean Dunes on King Island (King Island, Australia)

Projected Opening: Late 2026

Perched between roaring Bass Strait waves and rolling, windswept greens, Ocean Dunes will introduce a unique hybrid: world-class golf paired with understated luxury hospitality. Expect dramatic ocean-view suites, warm Australian design, and immediate access to one of the country’s most anticipated new courses. King Island’s rugged beauty sets the tone for an elemental coastal escape.

Hotels on the Water: 2026 Bonus Openings

We’re talking the kind of trips that become reference points like “before Patagonia” or “after the Nile,” which ultimately become the adventures your children are still talking about around the dinner table years later. And when it comes to creating experiences that quietly recalibrate how you see the world—and sometimes, even see yourself—we know a thing or two.

In a moment where last-minute bookings have become increasingly common, we’re making a different case entirely: the most meaningful travel of your life deserves a long-term plan. Because landmark journeys—including the ones requiring permits, deploying expedition vessels, or securing private aviation access—reward the early bird. And for these trips, planning twelve, eighteen, or even twenty-four months in advance isn’t simply practical; it’s how you unlock the extraordinary.

What if, instead of thinking about next summer, you started thinking about the next ten years? Mapping out a decade-long roadmap allows you to anticipate mile markers around big birthdays, retirement chapters, and even milestones in your children’s development…

Exclusivity translates to limited availability, and that’s precisely where your SmartFlyer travel advisor comes in. What if, instead of thinking about next summer, you started thinking about the next ten years? Mapping out a decade-long roadmap allows you to anticipate mile markers around big birthdays, retirement chapters, and even milestones in your children’s development—pairing each season of life with destinations worthy of the moment. So how, exactly, do you map a ten-year travel plan with intention? It starts with a conversation—and not about where you want to go next summer. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor will begin by asking you bigger picture questions: What milestones are coming up for your parents, spouse, and children? What pockets does work tend to peak in? What seasons of life do you want to mark in a meaningful way? What experiences would you regret missing if you waited too long?

From there, the plan begins to take shape, following a framework customized to you. Together, you’ll discuss how to: 

• Anchor the decade with milestone moments. Decade birthdays. Major anniversaries. The summer before your oldest leaves for college. A retirement year. Study abroad semesters and graduations. Your advisor helps place these on a long-view calendar first—because those dates aren’t flexible. 

• Match destinations to your children’s ages. This is where experience really matters. Maybe it’s a Galápagos expedition when they’re confident swimmers and still wildly curious. A month of language school in Spain before high school schedules and sports commitments narrow your window. A multi-gen villa summer while cousins still want to share rooms. Your advisor looks at not just where to go — but when it will land best. 

• Plan around limited inventory and ideal seasons. The most sought-after safari camps have fewer than a dozen suites. Prime migration weeks or peak dry-season dates can fill up one to two years in advance, especially for families who need multiple rooms and private vehicles. Mapping these out eighteen months ahead means you secure the right camp, in the right season—not what happens to be left. 

• Balance “pillar” trips with breathing room. A Nile cruise one year. A low-lift Caribbean reset the next.  Your advisor helps pace the decade so it feels intentional—not exhausting. 

• Track fixed-date global events. Olympics. World Cups. Total solar eclipses. These operate on immovable timelines, with hospitality inventory that disappears quickly. With a long-range roadmap, your advisor is watching booking windows and ready to act the moment they open. 

• Revisit the roadmap annually. Kids grow. Careers shift. Interests evolve. The plan isn’t rigid—it’s refined over time, adjusted each year to reflect where your life actually is. 

The result isn’t overplanning—it’s peace of mind. The trips that matter most are protected before life crowds them out. And when charted alongside a SmartFlyer travel advisor, the extraordinary doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because someone was thinking ten years ahead. To get your creativity flowing as you think about some pillar trips to include on your roadmap, we’ve rounded up some epic adventures for consideration.

For the Outdoor & Nature Enthusiast

Some landscapes demand reverence, while others demand perspective. A well-rounded decade of travel for the nature lover should include both cinematic wilderness and remote stillness—places that remind you just how expansive the planet truly is. 

Experience Intrepid Alaska

Alaska is a perfect starting point for the nature lover, and while cruising along its coast is an option that works best for many families, there are other creative ways to explore the United States’ northernmost territory. Instead, imagine a curated lodge circuit that begins in Anchorage and continues by helicopter into Denali’s dramatic terrain. For instance, a heli-adventure to Sheldon Chalet, located on the only privately owned land within Denali National Park & Preserve, becomes a journey that feels deeply personal and wildly cinematic. This is not about checking off “Alaska.” It’s about redefining how you encounter it.

See The Northern Lights

Further north, Norway and Finnish Lapland offer the chance to sleep beneath the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are visible from late August through April, but seeing them well requires thoughtful positioning. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can help you explore fjord hopping by private yacht, pairing Nordic design-forward hotels with wilderness lodges, and time excursions around snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or dog sledding to ensure the magic unfolds with ease. 

Connect with Mongolia’s Expansiveness

For travelers craving vastness, Mongolia’s Gobi Desert introduces an entirely different scale. Luxury ger camps allow you to explore fossil fields, ride camels across dunes, and engage with nomadic communities—all within a landscape defined by silence. This is a destination that demands patience and rewards those who plan carefully. United Airlines offers seasonal nonstop flights from Tokyo to Ulaanbaatar, meaning the SmartFlyer Air Team can issue you a ticket from the U.S. to Mongolia through Tokyo. Yet another reason to plan in advance and get this bucket list destination on your travel roadmap.

Scuba in Raja Ampat

For those who feel most alive underwater, Raja Ampat in Indonesia remains one of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth, making it somewhere that should be catapulted to the top of your list. Chartering a Rascal Voyages vessel in the region allows you to explore remote reefs in privacy, navigating marine seasons and conservation guidelines with precision. Plus, the Rascal way ensures that you can bring along the kiddos, providing invaluable real-life learning about biodiversity, from showing them real-life dragons to brilliantly colored corals and smoking volcanoes.

For the Active Traveler

Movement imprints memory differently. Arguably, some of the world’s most transformative journeys are earned on foot, on skis, or at altitude. 

Hike Through Patagonia

Patagonia feels almost mythic in its scale. Hiking through Torres del Paine National Park or Argentina’s Los Glaciers National Park reveals jagged peaks and glacial lakes that feel cinematic in every direction. Anchoring your stay at Tierra Hotels’ lodges—such as Tierra Patagonia, perched above Lake Sarmiento with uninterrupted views of the Paine massif—adds architectural drama and guided access that elevates the experience beyond a hiking trip. Incorporating Patagonia into a decade-long plan allows you to pair it strategically, perhaps linking it with Antarctica via a fly-cruise from Punta Arenas, reaching the continent in hours rather than spending days crossing the Drake Passage. The goal isn’t extremity; it’s orchestration.

Do A Ski Safari Through the Dolomites

In northern Italy, a ski safari through the Dolomites blends adrenaline with indulgence. Moving between alpine villages, stopping for long lunches in mountain rifugi, and concluding at a spa-forward retreat like FORESTIS transforms a ski trip into a fully realized alpine circuit. Over ten years, you might revisit the Alps in multiple seasons, layering hiking, cycling, and culinary exploration into your version of this dynamic destination, but seeing it by skiing from rifugi to rifugi is something truly remarkable.

Connect To Your Spiritual Side in the “Land of Happiness” 

Bhutan offers another kind of active journey—one rooted in spirituality as much as physical challenge. Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is physically demanding, but the deeper resonance lies in the country’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness and its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism model. Visa requirements and protective travel policies make advance planning essential. Whether you opt to do a multi-lodge circuit with Six Senses or Aman, you can chart your own path through mountains and valleys that feel both sacred and cinematic.

For the History Buff

Some travelers crave narrative above all else. They want to stand where history unfolded and understand the context that shaped it. If that’s you, we’ve got a few quintessential trips to prioritize. 

Set Sail Along the Nile

Cruising along the Nile offers one of civilization’s most immersive classrooms. From Luxor to Aswan, ancient temples rise from desert sands with staggering presence. Choosing a private or ultra-luxury vessel ensures you’re not merely passing by these sites, but engaging with them alongside expert Egyptologists who provide depth and nuance. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor will be sure to match you with the best suited subject matter experts to ensure you’re maximizing your visit to Northern Africa.

Do the Ultimate Morocco Circuit

A Morocco itinerary weaving through Casablanca, Fes, the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and Marrakesh is sure to layer architecture, craft, cuisine, and landscape into one cohesive journey. Exploring medinas with private guides, spending nights beneath desert stars, and retreating to riads that feel more like private residences than hotels creates a narrative arc you won’t soon forget. Be sure to leave extra room in your bag for all the treasures you’ll uncover at the souks.

Embrace the Allure of the Golden Triangle

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur coalesce to create their own iconic framework known as the Golden Triangle. When paired with private palace stays, exclusive artisan encounters, and wildlife extensions, the journey is sure to engage every sense. India rewards travelers who move thoughtfully, making this a destination well-suited to be planned by travel advisors who understand its beautiful complexity.

For the Epicurian

Food remains a primary motivator for travel, shaping not just where we go but how deeply we connect once we arrive. With thoughtful planning, your advisor can time reservations around seasonal harvests, secure coveted counter seats, and build itineraries that unfold through markets, kitchens, and vineyards rather than just landmarks. 

Dine Your Way Through Peru

Some destinations are tasted as much as they are seen, and Peru stands firmly in that category. Begin in Lima, where one of the world’s most dynamic dining scenes continues to redefine Latin American cuisine, before continuing into the Sacred Valley. From there, your travel advisor will arrange your journey to Machu Picchu aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham, timing your arrival to avoid peak congestion and heighten the sense of cinematic anticipation as the Andes unfold outside your window. After experiencing the citadel at its most serene, continue on to Cusco, where a stay at Palacio Nazarenas offers quiet refinement at altitude, grounding the journey in both history and understated luxury.

For the Expedition-Minded

For those drawn to exploration by smaller vessels, sailing the Peruvian Amazon aboard Aqua Expeditions’ Aria Amazon offers an intimate counterpoint to traditional cruising. With just sixteen suites and the option for a full buyout, the experience feels less like a voyage and more like a private expedition through the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, where pink river dolphins surface at dawn and skiffs glide silently past dense jungle canopy. This is cruising reimagined—design-forward, wildlife-rich, and intentionally small in scale.

For the Wildlife-Driven

Some travelers are pulled toward vast landscapes and untamed ecosystems. They want early mornings on game drives, sundowners overlooking the savanna, and encounters that shift perspective. If that’s you, Africa deserves multiple chapters on your decade-long plan. 

Witness the Great Migration in East Africa

Kenya and Tanzania deliver some of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on Earth—and the lodges you select often define how you experience these special parts of East Africa. In Kenya’s Laikipia region, Ol Malo offers a family-owned, deeply personal safari rooted in conservation and community. For front-row access to the Serengeti’s drama, Singita Faru Faru pairs contemporary design with prime migration positioning. And in the Maasai Mara, refined camps such as Angama Mara place you high above the plains with panoramic views that feel almost cinematic. Timing is everything here—river crossings and peak wildlife months follow natural rhythms, not calendar dates—so your SmartFlyer travel advisor secures the right camp in the right region well in advance.

Do a South Africa Circuit

South Africa offers one of the continent’s most seamless introductions to safari, especially when anchored by the visionary properties of The Royal Portfolio. Begin in Cape Town at The Silo Hotel, where art-filled interiors overlook Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront. Continue into the Winelands at La Residence for vineyard serenity before heading to Royal Malewane for a Big Five safari led by some of the most experienced guides on the continent. This circuit balances cosmopolitan energy, culinary excellence, and wilderness immersion within a single, thoughtfully paced journey. 

End with a Remote Indian Ocean Escape

After days on safari, few finales feel more transportive than Madagascar. A stay at Miavana by Time + Tide offers private-villa seclusion on a protected island off the country’s northeastern coast, where marine life, lemurs, and untouched reefs create an experience that feels worlds away from the mainland. Pairing bush with beach at this level adds restoration without sacrificing a sense of discovery—turning an already extraordinary journey into something truly singular.

Life at Leisure

Not every landmark moment demands exertion. Some are meant to unfold slowly—designed for celebration, restoration, and long afternoons that stretch into golden evenings. 

Charter a Yacht Through the Aeolian Islands

A private yacht through the Aeolian Islands allows you to dictate your own rhythm—swimming off volcanic coves, docking for lingering Sicilian lunches, and anchoring beneath Stromboli as it glows against the night sky. Milestone birthdays and anniversaries deserve settings that feel cinematic, and nothing feels more singular than gathering friends or family aboard your own floating villa. 

Escape to Bora Bora

In Bora Bora, guided shark and manta ray encounters introduce a dose of adventure within crystalline lagoons, while overwater villas provide the kind of privacy that encourages true pause. For an even more secluded chapter, a stay at The Brando elevates the experience entirely—set on a private atoll once owned by Marlon Brando, where sustainability, barefoot luxury, and profound stillness define each day. Over the course of a decade, alternating high-energy expeditions with restorative escapes like these ensures your travel roadmap remains balanced, intentional, and deeply personal.

Take Over a Mediterranean Villa

There is something timeless about a private villa. Whether perched along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, tucked into the hills of Mallorca, or overlooking the Aegean in Paros, a fully staffed estate becomes the backdrop for birthdays, reunions, and the kind of unstructured time that families rarely get at home. Days revolve around long lunches, market visits, and spontaneous swims—proof that sometimes the most meaningful travel isn’t about movement, but about staying put.

With its global campaign, The Butler Did It, Raffles reframes one of hospitality’s most storied traditions for a new era of experiential travel. The modern luxury traveler is no longer seeking seamless logistics alone—after all, working with a SmartFlyer travel advisor ensures that’s already the case. Instead, they want access that feels insider. Cultural immersion that doesn’t require guesswork. And increasingly, they’re craving someone on the ground who can help interpret a destination on their behalf.

“Since 1887, our legendary butlers have been the soul of this tradition, embodying the art of intuitive and emotional hospitality. ‘The Butler Did It’ packages celebrate this enduring legacy…” -Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts

As Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, explains, “The magic of Raffles lies in delivering a highly personalized level of service that transforms a stay into a remarkable experience. Since 1887, our legendary butlers have been the soul of this tradition, embodying the art of intuitive and emotional hospitality. ‘The Butler Did It’ packages celebrate this enduring legacy by offering guests immersive and unique journeys tailored to each of our iconic destinations. From the cultural heart of Singapore to the refined elegance of Paris, the tropical serenity of the Seychelles, and the historic charm of Istanbul, each experience showcases the grace, sophistication, warmth, and wit that define Raffles.” 

What makes this inflection point notable is timing. “Luxury travel” has entered an era defined by scale and, in turn, sameness. Hotel portfolios are expanding rapidly with social media usage accelerating the likelihood that interaries are being rinsed and repeated in destinations around the world. In this environment, differentiation no longer comes from square footage or marble finishes alone. It comes from the human interpretation of how to navigate a place. And it’s here precisely where Raffles is placing its bets.

Raffles Singapore

The Origin Story, Reimagined

This iconic property was the birthplace of the brand, dating back to 1887, and remains the spiritual anchor of its service philosophy.

No discussion of the Raffles butler can begin anywhere other than Raffles Singapore. This iconic property was the birthplace of the brand, dating back to 1887, and remains the spiritual anchor of its service philosophy. In a city that balances tradition and hyper-modernity with precision, this element of human curation becomes essential. 

Here, the butler tradition is not marketing language; it is lineage. Through The Butler Did It, guests are invited into experiences that go beyond the iconic Sling at Long Bar or the white façade along Beach Road. A butler may arrange private heritage walks tracing colonial-era influences across Singapore’s evolving neighborhoods, or secure behind-the-scenes introductions to local culinary artisans redefining Peranakan cuisine. 

For families traveling together, this creates layered storytelling: grandparents reconnecting with Southeast Asian history, parents exploring contemporary design districts, and children discovering hawker culture through curated tastings. Here, the Raffles butler becomes a cultural translator—ensuring the narrative of Singapore unfolds in a way that feels coherent rather than overwhelming.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Raffles Hotel Le Royal

A Seamless Passage Through Khmer Legacy

In Cambodia, the campaign unfolds as a twin-stay journey between two of the country’s most historic addresses. In Siem Reap, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor situates guests at the threshold of Angkor Wat and the surrounding temple complexes—but the butler’s orchestration ensures visits transcend standard sightseeing. 

Private sunrise access is timed to avoid peak congestion. Expert guides are matched to specific guest interests, whether they are architecture, mythology, or photography. Temple explorations are balanced with restorative pauses back at the hotel’s Art Deco pool, which in turn allows space for reflection.

…the butler may coordinate private dining that interprets Cambodian flavors through modern gastronomy…

The journey then transitions to Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, where colonial architecture and Khmer design coexist in the Cambodian capital. Here, the butler may coordinate private dining that interprets Cambodian flavors through modern gastronomy, or introductions to local creatives shaping Phnom Penh’s contemporary arts scene. For multigenerational groups, cultural immersion unfolds at a rhythm tailored to the family dynamic.

Raffles London at The OWO

History, Activated

At Raffles London at The OWO, the campaign leans into the gravitas of the building’s past as the Old War Office. Under The Butler Did It, guests are escorted into hidden Whitehall spaces, including underground rooms where wartime strategy once shaped global history. In a city dense with luxury hotel inventory, narrative access—not simply architectural splendor—becomes the differentiator.

Yet what distinguishes this experience is personalization. A history devotee might receive a deep archival narrative. A family traveling with teenagers may experience storytelling designed to make Churchill-era decisions feel immediate and human. A couple marking an anniversary might opt for a private dinner within these storied walls, where heritage becomes backdrop to celebration.

Raffles Istanbul

Perspective as Luxury

Istanbul exists at the intersection of continents and empires, and at Raffles Istanbul, the butler’s role is to help guests comprehend that scale. Helicopter transfers arranged by butlers reveal the Bosphorus from above, tracing bridges that physically link Europe and Asia. From this vantage point, landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahçe Palace take on a new dimension.

The butler translates complexity into cohesion—ensuring no one feels lost within Istanbul’s grandeur.

On the ground, butlers curate contemporary art encounters reflecting Istanbul’s creative resurgence. Private gallery access, museum introductions, and culinary explorations guided by local tastemakers layer modern vibrancy atop ancient infrastructure. For families traveling together, this allows multiple entry points into the city’s story. The butler translates complexity into cohesion—ensuring no one feels lost within Istanbul’s grandeur.

Raffles Bali

Ritual Without Performance

At Raffles Bali, perched above Jimbaran Bay, butlers emphasize immersion into Indonesian culture. Visits to Balinese family homes unfold with sensitivity and authenticity, arranged in partnership with local communities. Or, for those who want to lap up the sun, private yacht excursions navigate hidden beaches rarely reached by larger tours. For the wellness-driven traveler, Jamu-making workshops introduce Indonesia’s herbal traditions. 

The butler’s orchestration ensures these experiences feel natural rather than staged. Timing is perfectly in sync with temple ceremonies. Wellness rituals are scheduled around personal energy levels. Dining reflects both local ingredients and individual dietary preferences. Luxury becomes measured not by extravagance, but by alignment.

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

The Architecture of Privacy

At Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain, the meaning of “The Butler Did It” shifts toward seclusion and restoration. Private villas establish a residential cadence, while butlers coordinate bespoke wellness programs, personalized menus, and curated heritage excursions exploring Bahrain’s pearl-diving legacy and contemporary cultural revival. 

For high-profile guests or families seeking retreat, this infrastructure of quiet anticipation becomes invaluable. The butler operates discreetly, adjusting plans in real time and ensuring each day unfolds effortlessly. n a luxury market increasingly prioritizing private accommodations, the human layer of service becomes the true differentiator.

Why It’s About So Much More Than A Butler

The resurgence of high-touch service is not accidental. As wealth transfers accelerate and younger high-net-worth travelers enter the luxury market, expectations are shifting. Efficiency is assumed. What stands out now is how a travel advisor and their carefully chosen hotel partners interpret client needs.

For advisors, the parallels are clear. The butler mirrors the advisor’s role: filtering options, curating meaningful access, and advocating for experiences that align with personal values rather than algorithmic suggestions.

For advisors, the parallels are clear. The butler mirrors the advisor’s role: filtering options, curating meaningful access, and advocating for experiences that align with personal values rather than algorithmic suggestions. Raffles’ forthcoming expansion into destinations such as Lake Como, Tokyo, Los Cabos, and beyond underscores this commitment to personalization at scale. Growth does not dilute the brand’s DNA; it amplifies it. In positioning the butler as cultural curator and emotional guide, The Butler Did It becomes more than a campaign. It becomes a statement about where experiential luxury is headed. 

At Raffles, the butler still did it. Only now, what they’re doing is helping to define the future of intuitive hospitality. 

This year, booking patterns tell us a story of balance: a continued love affair with sun-soaked escapes, paired with a growing appetite for city escapes, storied European grand dames, and culinary-driven stateside stays. Through these check-ins, we see our travel trends echoed, with insights into both where clients have been and often, where travel at large is headed.

…the Caribbean and Europe tied as the most represented regions, each claiming seven spots on our top-booked list, followed by Hawaiʻi, Mexico, and a steadily growing presence across the mainland United States.

This year, the Caribbean and Europe emerged as equally dominant on our top booked list, each accounting for seven properties on our list, underscoring the enduring pull of both barefoot luxury and classic continental elegance. Hawaiʻi remained a perennial favorite with four top-booked hotels, while Mexico continued to deliver reliable allure along its coasts. Notably, we also saw a meaningful rise in mainland U.S. icons—from Florida’s revitalized resort scene to mountain retreats where food, wellness, and nature take center stage. All told, the Caribbean and Europe tied as the most represented regions, each claiming seven spots on our top-booked list, followed by Hawaiʻi, Mexico, and a steadily growing presence across the mainland United States.

While this list doesn’t fully capture the far-flung, multi-stop itineraries our clients explored across Asia, Africa, South America, and beyond, it does highlight something just as compelling: a portfolio of hotels that span generations, geographies, and travel styles. From legacy institutions with over a century of history to newly reimagined classics and modern trailblazers, these are the properties SmartFlyer clients returned to—and trusted—again and again.

Blackberry Farm & Blackberry Mountain

Wallan, Tennessee

For those getaways when you’re looking for food to be at the forefront, Blackberry Farm and its sister property Blackberry Mountain deliver immersive escapes rooted in nature, craftsmanship, and terroir. Blackberry Farm remains the gold standard for refined Smoky Mountain hospitality—think paddock-to-plate cuisine, curated outdoor excursions, and an agrarian ethos executed with finesse. Just a half an hour away, Blackberry Mountain takes that sensibility higher still, with vaulted spaces, wellness immersion, and mountain panoramas that make every moment feel intentional.

The Boca Raton

Boca Raton, Florida

A South Florida stalwart reinvented for today’s luxury traveler, The Boca Raton blends storied Palm Beach County tradition with contemporary coastal refinement. With a sprawling oceanfront campus, championship golf, a vibrant culinary scene, and the newly reimagined spa and poolscape, the property delivers both respite and spirited social energy. Its mix of classic glamour and modern amenities strikes a chord with clients looking for approachable yet aspirational resort living.

Borgo Santandrea

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Freshly opened in April 2022, Borgo Santandrea has since shaken up the Amalfi Coast hotel scene in a big way. Perched above the centuries-old fishing village of Conca dei Marini, the property’s connection to its neighbors acts as a lovely reminder of how sleepy the Amalfi Coast was once. Today, the two owning families behind this project (a three-year renovation from its 1960s bones) have reimagined what a fresh, light-washed hotel in the region could look like. Aside from all forty-five rooms having balconies and sea views, we love the sexy beach club and private beach access.

Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel

Anguilla

Belmond’s Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel remains one of the Caribbean’s most elegant addresses. Rebuilt and refreshed after recent years, the property’s Moorish-inspired architecture, sweeping white beaches, and crystalline waters make for quintessential island luxury. Whether you’re unwinding under a palapa with a rum punch in hand or exploring the coral reefs offshore, Cap Juluca’s rhythm feels uniquely Anguillan: serene, gracious, and endlessly beautiful.

Cheval Blanc Paris

Paris, France

Voted the best hotel in Paris by The World’s 50 Best Hotels, Cheval Blanc Paris shook up the landscape of an already competitive landscape of top properties when it opened in 2021. With a location perched on the Seine just beside the landmark La Samaritaine building, this jewel box was the first urban Maison from LVMH Hospitality. Guests adore the colorful interiors by Peter Marino and Dior Spa complimented by the longest swimming pool in all of Paris.

Cheval Blanc St-Barth

Saint Barthélemy, Saint Barthélemy

As the only property in the Caribbean with Palace distinction, you can rest assured that Cheval Blanc St-Barth will have you feeling like you have all the refinement of Paris along the shores of Flamands Beach. With only sixty-one rooms, guests are welcomed into an intimate haven of French hospitality with a design rooted in tranquil colors and earthy finishes. The property prides itself on discretion, and we especially appreciate how all rooms, suites, and villas –many of which boast their own pools – were expertly devised to ensure guests have privacy even when checking in during peak season.

Claridge’s

London, United Kingdom

A visit to the U.K. capital hardly feels complete without admiring the impressive facade of Claridge’s; but only once you walk under the Union Jack proudly flying at its entrance can one understand the magnitude of this hospitality icon. Clients gravitate towards its quintessential British flair, but that’s not to say the property is resting on its laurels. The recently renovated 7,000-square-foot spa required the team to excavate into five floors of London clay, resulting in a stunning center of tranquility evoking Claridge’s Art Deco history. On the exact opposite side of the hotel, our team recently scouted the property’s rooftop Penthouse, filled with 75 works by Damien Hirst.

COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos

For a taste of Asia just three hours away from the East Coast, we adore COMO Parrot Cay—an award-winning Turks and Caicos luxury resort set on its own private island. Low-key and laid back in the best way possible, the island’s privacy attracts some of the most well-known names in fashion and Hollywood. Boasting over 1,000 unspoiled acres and over four miles of beach, COMO delivers the ultimate barefoot luxury, perfect for families and couples alike.

Eden Rock – St Barths

Saint Barthelemy, Saint Barthélemy

Nestled on the glistening white sands of St. Jean beach in the heart of St Barths, this island beauty has a jaw-dropping location. Part of the esteemed Oetker Hotels, Eden Rock – St Barth’s one-of-a-kind decor, forward-thinking dining outlets, and a chic club that create an effortlessly stylish Caribbean experience with a French twist. Each room shines with unique artwork, but we especially love the picturesque Rock Rooms, set right on the water.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Miami, Florida

Bold, theatrical, and unapologetically glamorous, Faena Hotel Miami Beach stands apart on Collins Avenue as a beacon of design-forward hospitality. With interiors by Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin that feel like a cinematic celebration of Miami itself, every corner of Faena—from its striking lobby to its beachfront poolscape—invites endless storytelling. Here, world-class dining (don’t miss Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann) meets a soulful spa and cultural programming that transform a stay into a social event in its own right.

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris

Paris, France

A timeless emblem of Parisian elegance, Four Seasons Hotel George V continues to capture the city’s gravitational pull for luxury travelers. Just off the Champs-Élysées, its three Michelin-starred dining, exceptional floral installations, and grandly refined rooms offer an urban sanctuary that feels both classic and contemporary. For clients seeking a Paris experience that marries heritage and heartfelt hospitality, George V remains at the apex.

Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club

Miami, Florida

A design-centric icon reimagined for the modern luxury traveler, Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club evokes old-world glamour with contemporary precision. Set on a private stretch of sand just north of Miami Beach, the property’s mid-century lineage is complemented by fresh art, serene beachfront spaces, and Michelin-level dining. Its combination of polished sophistication and ocean breeze ease makes it a perennial favorite for both long weekends and extended stays.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort

Orlando, Florida

For families (and the young at heart) seeking the ultimate blend of wonder and luxury, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World continues to shine. Beyond its proximity to the parks, the resort itself is a destination: a lazy river and water playground, championship golf, a world-class spa, and character-dining experiences that feel elevated rather than kitschy. Clients gravitate towards it not just for location, but for seamless ease and sophistication even amid the theme-park magic.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

Papagagyo, Costa Rica

Sink into true pura vida at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo on Costa Rica’s ultimate coastal retreat for unsoiled access to nature and relaxation. From the five-bedroom estate at Prieta Bay to the three-bedroom Canopy Villa, the stellar accommodations here are just the beginning. Guests are invited to soak up the true essence of the destination with surf lessons, a day in the rainforest, exploring the mangroves, or even a trip to the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Kailua-Kona, Hawai’i

Set on the picturesque Kona-Kohala coast of Hawai’i Island, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a magnificent work of art that pays homage to its unique setting. Built into its natural surroundings, the resort combines history, culture, pure pampering, and true aloha to all who come its way. Featuring 243 magnificent rooms and suites, championship golf, world-class spa and fitness, tennis, on-site ocean activities, retail boutiques, seven pools, cultural experiences, and award-winning dining, it is safe to say that this Four Seasons property has the whole family covered.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Kihei, Hawai’i

Just a stone’s throw away from several of Maui’s best golf courses and a handful of luxury boutiques, location is just the beginning in a long list of reasons why clients adore Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. With a variety of rooms and suites — each with sweeping views of the surrounding ocean, garden, or mountains — it is the perfect retreat at the end of a long day in the Maui sun. If there’s anything we’ve learned this past year, it’s the importance of supporting our dear friends in Maui, and we can’t think of anywhere better to start than at Four Seasons.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla

Anguilla

Nestled on the northwest shore of Anguilla between two gorgeous bays, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla is a secluded island escape. With a variety of accommodations ranging from villas to penthouses to townhomes — the majority of which have ocean views — it is an ideal beach getaway for your next family vacation, couples weekend, or even corporate retreat home base. Relax by one of the property’s three outdoor pools, try your hand at rock climbing in the sports pavilion, or indulge in the property’s prime positioning for Anguilla’s stunning sunsets for a truly memorable experience.

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Nassau, Bahamas

With multiple Baha Mar properties making our 2023 list of top-booked hotels, it’s clear that SmartFlyer clients feel everything is indeed better in the Bahamas. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar stands out for its central location and wide array of restaurants, beautifully landscaped pools, ample nightlight options, spa, casino access, and one of the most pristine beaches in the Bahamas. If you’ve got a golfer in your midst, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar makes for an ideal golf trip thanks to its location by the front nine of Baha Mar’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Royal Blue course.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Antibes, France

Old-world glamour meets modern luxury at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. For more than 150 years, this iconic Oetker Hotels property has welcomed flocks of A-listers and movie stars to its prime location on the French Riviera, captivating guests with its quintessential charm. The pine-clad grounds and glittering coastline, famous infinity swimming pool, and exclusive sanctuary of 118 rooms, suites, and villas create a glamorous, gloriously seductive escape worthy of its starry reputation.

Jumby Bay Island

Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

A fantasy hideaway that offers Caribbean comforts in a relaxed atmosphere, Jumby Bay Island is the epitome of private island living. This is a place where each experience can be tailored to your desires, and you can create your ideal vacation — from action-packed to blissful serenity. Kick off your shoes, take a dip in the turquoise sea, and relax in one of the property’s exceptional suites or villas. For those seeking more space, Jumby Bay’s twenty-two Private Residences each offer large communal areas, a private pool, and a personal chef and butler for your convenience.

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

Kona, Hawaii

The storied shores of the Kona Coast have long been home to one of Hawaii’s most beloved resorts since its opening in 1965 by intrepid explorer Johnno Jackson and his wife, Helen. In the intervening decades, Kona Village established its own beating heart, welcoming families from around the world who’d loyally return annually. Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ reimagining of this property after a brief closure revived it to even higher heights than its cult following believed possible. A stay at Kona Village, A Rosewood Hotel is steeped in spirituality as the resort was remade for ‘ohana as guests gather and reconnect.

The Little Nell

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond hotel, The Little Nell is the quintessential base for year-round mountain adventure with a cosmopolitan edge. Steps from the Silver Queen Gondola, it flawlessly blends ski-in/ski-out ease with refined après ski culture, a standout wine program, and one of Colorado’s most celebrated restaurants. Here, elevated service and local expertise turn a seasonal getaway into a signature Colorado experience.

Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort

San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

Admired for its Mediterranean-Mexican style architecture, unique artistry, and unwavering attention to detail, Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort is distinguished by many as a true Cabo gem. Dotted with succulents, cacti, and other native plants, the resort is beautiful and blissfully private, with its network of underground tunnels allowing staff to be discreet and making it a favorite among honeymooning couples and celebrities. We especially appreciate the hotel’s “director of romance,” who aids in creating private on-the-beach dining experiences for two, oceanfront marriage proposals, and over-the-top anniversary celebrations.

Marbella Club Hotel

Marbella, Spain

Set on the fabled Costa del Sol, Marbella Club Hotel exudes unpretentious Andalusian chic with a storied legacy. What began as a private family estate has grown into a refined seaside refuge where olive groves meet Mediterranean breezes. With discreet service, lush gardens, and a wellness program inspired by the region’s rhythms, the hotel offers a Mediterranean experience that’s equally about languid afternoons and spirited evenings.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection

Kamuela, Hawai’i

On the dramatic Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection’s secluded beaches, coral reefs, and ancient fishponds set the stage for a memorable Hawaiian getaway. Primely located on the Big Island, this hotel’s design is highly unique with bright, inviting pops of color. From beachfront activities down at the Surf Shack to relaxing meals at the celebrated CanoeHouse, Mauna Lani is the perfect escape for the whole family.

Montage Los Cabos

Los Cabos, Mexico

With a prime address on Santa Maria Beach, Montage Los Cabos draws in families and couples alike to sink into its guestrooms, suites, casas, and residences. If you can pull yourself away from the swimmable beach, Spa Montage, and multiple pools are all on offer for ultimate relaxation. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can also arrange for you to golf, do a deep-sea fishing trip, go whale watching, or even try out a cooking class.

Ritz Paris

Paris, France

Since opening its doors in 1898, the Ritz Paris has remained a living legend on Place Vendôme for over a century. As the host to dignitaries, royalty, artists, and fashion icons from around the world, discretion is everything at the Ritz, a signature of its anticipatory service that is just one of many calling cards that keep loyal guests coming back year after year. We especially love the property for its celebration of the art of French gastronomy, a pillar of the property that’s on full display at its on-property cooking school, École Ritz-Escoffier, and its signature watering hole, Bar Hemingway.

Rosewood Baha Mar

Nassau, The Bahamas

A true sanctuary in every sense of the word, Rosewood Baha Mar epitomizes Bahamian refinement and sophistication. Fusing the timeless charm of a modern Bahamian estate with luxury amenities and contemporary beach cottage interiors, Rosewood Baha Mar offers 237 rooms, suites, and beachfront villas — including a spectacular six-bedroom Oceanfront Villa. With exceptional dining experiences, private beach access, and an indulgent spa, this Rosewood property is ideal for travelers craving an effortless island escape.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay

British Virgin Islands

Reopened and refreshed, Rosewood Little Dix Bay embodies barefoot luxury at its most gracious. Sir Laurence Rockefeller’s original vision—a conservation-minded hideaway set within a horseshoe harbor of pristine sands and calm waters—remains intact, elevated by Rosewood’s modern sensibilities. Guests return for the luminous setting, attentive staff, and the sense that this is both a Caribbean classic and a quietly contemporary escape.

Rosewood Mayakoba

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Resting along a mile-long stretch of white sand beach, this centerpiece of the luxury Mayakoba development exudes Mexican resort chic. Strikingly modern in design, Rosewood Mayakoba’s generously proportioned 129 suites and seven villas are crafted from indigenous materials. With oversized bathtubs, private bath gardens with outdoor showers, lush amenities, and a heated plunge pool, this Mexican beach retreat is spectacular down to every last detail.

For more than sixty years, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts has represented the gold standard of intuitive service, thoughtful design, and culinary excellence. Arguably one of the world’s most recognized brands, “Four Seasons” has become synonymous with luxury. Now, for the first time in its history, this legacy is being translated from land to sea.

For travelers who have long trusted Four Seasons on land, this debut is more than a launch—it’s reason alone to convert non-cruisers to cruise curious.

In March 2026, Four Seasons I will set sail, beginning a new chapter not only for the brand, but for modern maritime travel. This all-suite yacht is Four Seasons reimagined. On board, guests will enjoy the intimacy of just ninety-five accommodations and a one-to-one staff ratio, the embodiment of a commitment to elevating every moment at sea. For travelers who have long trusted Four Seasons on land, this debut is more than a launch—it’s reason alone to convert non-cruisers to cruise curious. And if Four Seasons Yachts has anything to say about it, one day, loyal guests at sea.

Reimagining a Global Icon for the Open Water

…Four Seasons I was conceived not as a floating resort and not as a cruise ship, but as a private superyacht scaled for 200 guests.

For Four Seasons to enter yachting means taking the elements the brand is beloved for—residential-feeling design, meticulous craftsmanship, intuitive service—and translating them into an environment where movement, discovery, and freedom shape the day. Four Seasons I was conceived not as a floating resort and not as a cruise ship, but as a private superyacht scaled for 200 guests. That distinction matters. The vessel’s generous proportions allow for immersive public spaces and expansive suites, while maintaining the intimacy and quiet luxury that define the Four Seasons experience.

Across the yacht, the brand’s signature warmth is unmistakable: staff who anticipate preferences you never voiced, design that feels effortless rather than opulent, and a philosophy that every touchpoint should feel instinctive, never imposed. Where many vessels focus on spectacle, Four Seasons I focuses on ease—how light moves through a space, how a guest transitions from sunrise swim to afternoon tea, how the yacht can expand or contract around their mood. This is hospitality not as performance, but as presence.

Design as a Way of Living

At the heart of the vessel’s vision is world-renowned style consultant Prosper Assouline, whose approach distills the essence of seaside living into a series of spaces that feel sculptural, humane, and quietly glamorous. His influence is felt in the yacht’s fluid circulation, the interplay of textures, and the subtle nods to yachting heritage woven into each distinct part of the yacht.

For guests accustomed to Four Seasons’ urban penthouses and villa offerings, their seaborne equivalent is sure to deliver.

Yet, it’s the suites that truly are turning heads before the vessel has even officially launched. They are among the largest in the industry, designed as modern residences rather than cabins. Floor-to-ceiling windows erase boundaries between interior and horizon; private terraces offer sweeping views, and the materials echo the calm of sea and sky. The result is a sanctuary that feels both personal and profound. For guests accustomed to Four Seasons’ urban penthouses and villa offerings, their seaborne equivalent is sure to deliver.

But the in-suite innovation runs deeper. These suites “think” for the guest: light adjusts to circadian rhythms, privacy responds to movement, and climate shifts before comfort is compromised. Cutting-edge technology also promises to allow the space to operate with a kind of quiet intelligence. For instance, suites will have televisions that are first of their kind, visible when you want to queue something up, and invisible at the foot of your bed (which naturally, faces a window) when you don’t.

The Social Architecture of Escape

One of the greatest triumphs of Four Seasons I is its reimagining of communal spaces—not as programmed venues, but as environments that evolve with the day’s rhythm. At the heart of the yacht is “The Salon,” a luminous gathering space framed by wraparound windows. Mornings begin with pistachio croissants and bento-box breakfasts; afternoons shift to tea service and live piano; evenings spark conversation among newfound friends. Like the world’s best hotel living rooms, it serves as both backdrop and hive of activity.

On select voyages, the transverse marina unfurls both port and starboard, creating a vast floating resort that immerses guests in sunlit adventure and barefoot leisure.

Outdoors, “Piscine” channels mid-century yachting glamour: a pool by day that converts into an open-air dance floor by night, thanks to its hydraulic floor rising for late-evening revelry. For those seeking retreat, “Horizon Lounge” offers a Moroccan-accented adults-only hideaway perched high atop the yacht. Here, moody cocktails, Levantine mezze, and views stretch endlessly across passing coastlines. At sea level, the “Marina” transforms from a nook perfect for taking your morning espresso to a watersports hub and twilight lounge, anchoring the yacht’s connection to the ocean. On select voyages, the transverse marina unfurls both port and starboard, creating a vast floating resort that immerses guests in sunlit adventure and barefoot leisure. Every space is designed not to fill time, but to expand it.

Where Four Seasons Yachts Sails

Four Seasons Yachts approaches itineraries with the same intent it brings to its hotels: connection, discovery, and insider access are at the heart of each sailing. Itineraries across the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Adriatic anchor in destinations celebrated not only for their beauty but for their cultural resonance—think: Croatia’s storied coastline, Montenegro’s fjords, Göcek’s hidden coves, Porto Cervo’s glamour. Voyages are unhurried, allowing travelers to slip into the cadence of each region.

The emphasis is always the same: fewer stops, deeper immersion, and a sense of discovery…

During winter in the Caribbean, itineraries center on natural splendor and coastal intimacy, where guests will have the chance to explore tranquil bays, volcanic landscapes, and island communities where the yacht docks not in crowded ports but in cinematic seclusion. The emphasis is always the same: fewer stops, deeper immersion, and a sense of discovery shaped by the yacht’s ability to reach harbors inaccessible to larger vessels. Notably, the inaugural season will also be helmed by Captain Kate McCue, one of the most respected and recognizable captains in the industry, bringing her signature warmth, expertise, and global fanbase to Four Seasons Yachts.

Grand Touring: Freedom on Your Terms

One of the most defining innovations aboard Four Seasons I is the “Grand Touring” program—an elevated way to explore shoreside destinations through two custom-built vessels. The Limo Tender is discreet opulence reimagined: a floating private lounge with curved glass, a climate-controlled cabin, and a champagne service that rises theatrically at the touch of a button. The Beachlander, its sportier sibling, is part performance craft, part beach-landing marvel—able to glide directly onto remote shores, pivot from snorkel base to culinary drop-off, and embrace adventure with effortless style.

Tastes That Travel With You: Eleven Venues, Infinite Possibilities

If culinary artistry is a hallmark of Four Seasons on land, then Four Seasons I becomes its most ambitious stage yet. Eleven dining (and drinking!) venues redefine what gastronomy can look like at sea. Plus, ingredients are sourced throughout the voyage from fish handed over by a local fisherman that morning to herbs plucked from a market garden hours before service, ensuring guests can expect seasonal flavors carried onboard from port to plate.

“Terrasse” serves morning pastries inspired by the region the yacht sails through—pan de coco in the Caribbean, pain au chocolat on the Riviera. “Pistachio” showcases filled-to-order cruffins, French viennoiserie, and a serious espresso program. “Miuna” brings an intimate omakase experience to sea, its hinoki counter serving fish flown from the world’s great markets or pulled from local waters when they meet exacting standards.

At “Bar Piscine,” poolside fare is paired with dramatic rosé trolleys and carved-ice cocktails. “Champagne & Caviar” celebrates refinement on an open-air terrace. “Bar O,” the yacht’s ode to golden-age mixology, houses sea-aged spirits and some of the best martinis imaginable. And at the pinnacle sits “Sedna” where a multi-course, French-inspired dining experience guided by Four Seasons’ most celebrated culinary talent, complemented by rare vintages and vertical wine collections seldom seen at sea.

This rotating talent model ensures menus evolve continuously throughout the season, reflecting both destination and chef-driven creativity.

The culinary program is overseen by Four Seasons’ global food and beverage leadership, with an onboard executive chef and a brigade whose background spans Michelin-recognized restaurants, flagship Four Seasons properties, and regional specialists brought on for particular sailings. This rotating talent model ensures menus evolve continuously throughout the season, reflecting both destination and chef-driven creativity. It’s important to note that, unlike traditional cruises, meals aboard Four Seasons I are not included in the voyage fare. This intentional choice mirrors the brand’s resort model—giving guests the freedom to dine selectively across the yacht’s eleven distinct venues, each priced à la carte and designed to offer maximum flexibility and creativity.

Centered by the Sea: A Reimagining of Wellness

Wellness aboard Four Seasons I is less a program and more a rhythm—something you drift into, shaped by curiosity rather than obligation. The yacht’s spa, “L’Oceana,” offers a modern interpretation of ancient rituals: a twelve-seat hammam, infrared sauna, cold plunge, ocean-view thermal circuit, cryotherapy chamber, and treatment rooms designed for both solitude and connection.

Four Seasons has always understood that luxury is personal.

Fitness unfolds intuitively: sunrise bow meditations, AI-driven movement assessments, or paddleboarding straight from the marina. Culinary wellness complements indulgence rather than replaces it—nutrient-rich dishes appear alongside classic comforts, guided by visiting chefs, nutritionists, and educators. And naturally, sleep and recovery are integrated into the very architecture of the suites, from custom mattresses to circadian-supportive lighting. Four Seasons has always understood that luxury is personal. Onboard Four Seasons Yachts, wellness follows the same philosophy.

Marina Days: Four Seasons Yacht’s Love Letter to the Sea

On select voyages, the dedicated marina day becomes the voyage’s gravitational center—a full day devoted to barefoot leisure in a secluded bay far from any port. The transverse marina opens on both sides, revealing expansive platforms and an inflatable dock rivaling the size of a boutique resort. Guests flow between action and serenity with Foils, electric surfboards, pedal-powered water bikes, custom snorkeling bases, an ocean pool protected from jellyfish, shaded lounges, and a breezy marina bar. This is the purest expression of what makes yachting magical: no schedule, no rush, just the simple joy of being exactly where you are.

Who Will Love This Product

Four Seasons Yachts promises to resonate deeply with:

• Loyal Four Seasons guests who want the brand’s warmth and precision in a new environment
• Design-driven travelers drawn to residential luxury
• Yachting clients craving an intimate alternative to large-ship cruising
• Culinary travelers seeking destination-inspired cuisine
• Wellness-minded travelers who crave restoration without rigidity
• Couples, families, and multi-gen groups seeking privacy paired with impeccably orchestrated service
• Adventurers who prioritize rare access and unhurried discovery

Why This Matters for Travelers

Four Seasons Yachts represents a pivotal evolution for a brand that has shaped the hospitality landscape for decades. It is a statement of intent: that luxury today is defined not by excess, but by intimacy, personalization, and the seamless blending of exploration with comfort.

For guests, the value is clear. This is not simply a new way to cruise—it is a new way to experience the world’s coastlines. Imagine waking in a suite that responds to you, dining on ingredients sourced hours before plating, stepping into watersports crafted for all ages, and ending the day under a starlit sky at Horizon Lounge as the coastline drifts past. Four Seasons I offers the familiarity of a brand you trust with the thrill of a journey that feels entirely new.

A New Era Sets Sail

When Four Seasons I embarks on its inaugural voyages, it will mark more than the debut of a yacht—it will signal a transformative moment for luxury travel. A moment where hospitality’s most iconic name expands its legacy onto the open water, where design and discovery merge, and where every voyage becomes a masterclass in how luxury can feel both effortless and extraordinary.

For travelers seeking the next evolution of Four Seasons, the ocean is calling—and this time, it comes with a horizon that stretches as widely as the brand’s own ambition.

Curious about booking your own voyage? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor.

…the brand that defined the golden age of rail is setting its sights on the open sea.

For nearly 150 years, Orient Express has been shorthand for the romance embedded in the heart of a journey; the brand represents craftsmanship elevated into art, and the idea that how you arrive at a destination can be as meaningful as discovering the place itself. And now, for the first time, the brand that defined the golden age of rail is setting its sights on the open sea.

Launching June 2026, Orient Express Corinthian marks the beginning of a transformative new chapter for experiential maritime travel: the debut of Orient Express Sailing Yachts. And in typical Orient Express fashion, this evolution is a reimagining of what modern luxury at sea can look like. Designed for only 110 guests yet serviced by 170 crew, Corinthian introduces a new standard of intimacy, artistry, and cultural immersion as it sails across the Mediterranean and Caribbean. For clients craving ultra-personalized experiences paired with the emotional resonance of French heritage, this is a product poised to become one of the most defining launches of the decade.

Reimagining a Legend for the Sea

…designed not simply to move through the water but to create a cinematic experience of gliding across oceans with quiet power and grace.

The story of Orient Express Sailing Yachts begins with a question: What happens when the brand that perfected slow, elegant, meaningful travel decides to enter ‘cruising’? The answer is Corinthian—a 721-foot sailing yacht that merges wind power with liquefied natural gas propulsion, signaling a future-forward approach to sustainability while honoring the romance of traditional sailing. This will be the world’s largest sailing yacht to set sail, a vessel designed not simply to move through the water but to create a cinematic experience of gliding across oceans with quiet power and grace.

Inspired by the original Orient Express ethos of craftsmanship and cultural discovery, Corinthian’s onboard experience feels like stepping into a contemporary chapter of an already storied legacy. French heritage isn’t referenced—it’s felt. Every material, every line, every interplay of light and texture has intention. And that is largely thanks to one creative force: Maxime D’Angeac.

The Maxime D’Angeac Effect: Design as Storytelling

Tasked with translating decades of brand legacy into a floating masterpiece, architect and art director Maxime D’Angeac approached Corinthian as an act of storytelling. His vision is rooted in dualities: history and innovation, elegance and adventure, French rigor and the untamed nature of the sea.

The result is a masterclass in restraint and richness, a vessel that feels more like an architectural gallery than a conventional cruise ship.

Across the vessel, D’Angeac’s signature is unmistakable—harmonious spaces that feel sculptural yet inviting. The design language balances maritime minimalism with Parisian refinement, creating an atmosphere where every detail is meant to be discovered. Hand-finished woodwork, bespoke fabrics, sculptural lighting, curated art: nothing is by chance. The result is a masterclass in restraint and richness, a vessel that feels more like an architectural gallery than a conventional cruise ship.

The exclusive fifty-four suites are all spacious and open directly onto the sea, embodying the architect’s ethos on an intimate scale. Thoughtfully zoned for relaxation, contemplation, and connection to the outdoors, the suites are designed as private sanctuaries for travelers who value aesthetic harmony as much as comfort. For clients who gravitate toward design-driven properties, Corinthian will resonate with a similar emotional register.

Where Corinthian Sails: A Seasonal Rhythm Between Continents

…the focus is on immersion into ports of call over constant movement, offering guests the luxury of time to absorb the essence of each region.

Corinthian’s inaugural itineraries are a masterstroke in pacing and place. From June to October 2026, guests will explore the Mediterranean at a tempo that mirrors the Orient Express philosophy: unhurried, sophisticated, deeply rooted in culture. Expect anchorages—not quick port calls—in The French Riviera, Corsica, Sicily, The Italian coast, and The Adriatic. Notably, the focus is on immersion into ports of call over constant movement, offering guests the luxury of time to absorb the essence of each region.

In late fall, Corinthian shifts continents with a fourteen-night transatlantic crossing from Lisbon to Barbados; this sailing will echo the grand voyages of the past, reinterpreted for the modern traveler. Winter brings the warm luminosity of the Caribbean season, with itineraries shaped by cultural touchpoints rather than crowded ports. For travelers, the dual-season rhythm offers two distinct options, catering to Mediterranean culture seekers in summer and Caribbean relaxation seekers in winter.

Aboard the World’s Largest Sailing Yacht: The Experience

Corinthian was built not to compete with standard cruise categories but to transcend their offering in a completely unique light. This is a yacht that privileges spaciousness, craftsmanship, and a north-star commitment to personalization.

Culinary Excellence: Five Restaurants and Five Bars

Food is a cultural lens aboard Corinthian, crafted by Michelin-starred chefs who reinterpret regional flavors through a French culinary framework. Ingredients are sourced locally at each port, creating a dynamic menu that evolves throughout the sailing. Whether dining alfresco with Mediterranean breezes or savoring multi-course tasting menus indoors, every meal is positioned as a moment of artistry.

The Only Guerlain Spa at Sea

Wellness lovers will gravitate toward Corinthian’s Guerlain Spa, the maison’s first and only outpost on water. Treatments draw inspiration from the sea’s rhythms, offering both classic Guerlain rituals and yacht-exclusive protocols crafted around tranquility, renewal, and sensorial immersion.

A Marina Built for True “At Anchor” Living

Unlike traditional cruises with short port stops, Corinthian embraces a life lived on the water. The yacht’s state-of-the-art marina unfolds into a playground for snorkeling, paddleboarding, sailing, and more. Active, multi-gen, or water-loving clients will appreciate the fluidity of this offering—adventure is accessible at any moment.

Service: The Orient Express Signature

The Orient Express legacy lives most vividly in its service. With 170 crew for 110 guests, personalization is not simply a promise; it is a philosophy. Staff move with anticipatory precision—quiet, intuitive, and unobtrusively present. It feels less like cruising and more like being enveloped in a private members’ club at sea.

“Money-Can’t-Buy” Moments: The Signature of This Yacht

What ultimately elevates Orient Express Sailing Yachts beyond even the most luxurious peers is the brand’s commitment to exclusivity that feels cinematic. Corinthian’s curated experiences are not excursions—they’re invitations into cultural moments that very few travelers ever access. During initial sailings, guests can look forward to special access to some of the season’s most sought-after events, ensuring an emotional resonance for those seeking depth, rarity, and cultural texture in their travels.

• Venice Like Never Before |Anchor during the Venice Film Festival, gaining entry to red carpet premieres, private screenings, and soirées inside historic palazzos typically reserved for celebrities and industry insiders.
• Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez | Arrive directly into the heart of one of the world’s most legendary regattas. Guests enjoy behind-the-scenes access and celebrations woven into the sailing community’s most iconic week.
• Private Dinners in Historic Villas | Across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, intimate dinners unfold in architectural landmarks, estates, and private residences where food and music become cultural storytelling.
• Vintage Car Rallies | Guests embark on coastal drives in rare automobiles—guided by experts who reveal hidden landscapes, forgotten histories, and insider-only roads.
• An Onboard Recording Studio | For the creatively inclined, Corinthian offers something that feels pulled straight from fantasy: a studio where guests can collaborate with renowned artists or record their own compositions. It is, in the truest sense, a once-in-a-lifetime memory-maker.

Travelers Who Will Love This Product

Wondering if the Corinthian is for you? SmartFlyer travel advisors approach every client and trip with complete personalization, but if any of the below align with your travel style, the world’s largest sailing yacht just might be perfect for you.

• Lovers of design-forward hotels and architectural storytelling
• Francophiles and those drawn to heritage brands
• Cultural travelers who prioritize exclusive access
• Repeat cruise guests looking for a more intimate, artistic alternative
• Yachting clients unable to commit to full-boat charters
• Wellness travelers craving a serene, spa-centric floating retreat
• Multi-gen or couples seeking privacy paired with personalization

A Second Vessel Joins the Story: Orient Express Olympian

The journey doesn’t end with Corinthian’s debut. In June 2027, Orient Express Olympian will join the fleet, expanding itineraries and deepening the brand’s presence across the world’s most coveted waters. Two vessels, one design language, one ethos: the continued evolution of the Orient Express universe.

Why This Matters for Travelers

…Corinthian offers the intimacy of a private yacht paired with the craftsmanship and storytelling that define the Orient Express legacy.

Orient Express Sailing Yachts isn’t simply a new way to cruise—it’s a new way to travel. For guests who value design, culture, and meaningful experiences, Corinthian offers the intimacy of a private yacht paired with the craftsmanship and storytelling that define the Orient Express legacy. This is travel that feels personal, unrushed, and deeply connected to place. You’re not just moving from port to port—you’re anchoring in the heart of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, dining in historic villas, accessing festivals and cultural moments that are normally invitation-only, and unwinding in the only Guerlain Spa at sea. Every element is designed to feel like it was created just for you.

Ultimately, this matters because Corinthian turns a voyage into something unforgettable: a blend of beauty, exclusivity, and discovery that stays with you long after you return home. Here, the journey becomes the experience—and the sea becomes the backdrop for memories you’ll carry forever.

A Legend Sets Sail

When Orient Express Corinthian sets out across the Mediterranean in 2026, it won’t simply mark the beginning of a new itinerary—it will signal a new philosophy for luxury at sea. One rooted in heritage but shaped for the modern traveler; one that values design as deeply as discovery; one that invites guests to join a story over a century in the making. For travelers seeking the extraordinary, Corinthian offers a rare proposition: a voyage where every moment is curated with intention, where exclusivity is woven into the rhythm of the day, and where the journey itself becomes a legend. Welcome aboard Orient Express Sailing Yachts—where the extraordinary is just the beginning.

Ready to set sail? Contact your SmartFlyer travel advisor to begin planning.

…it’s undeniable that the brand’s long-standing commitment to creative expression has brought to life the dynamic and authentic moments that provide a glance into genuine guest experiences.

When it comes to dreaming up where you want to stay next, so much of that highly personal decision-making process is dominated by the effectiveness with which a property or destination can tell its story. Notably, Belmond has taken a slightly different approach than many other leading hospitality brands, whereby instead of quick gimmicky cuts, they’re favoring a ‘slow luxury,’ as seen by their January 2025 launch of a new film series, “Long Shots.” Whether you’re sitting down to watch one of their 60-minute films designed for passive viewing and active dreaming, or checking out one of our latest stories on the brand—the recap of our time aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express isn’t to be missed—it’s undeniable that the brand’s long-standing commitment to creative expression has brought to life the dynamic and authentic moments that provide a glance into genuine guest experiences.

In this roundup, we’re recapping what stands out about some of the most epic products in the brand’s collection: Belmond Legends. Beyond being exceptional stays shaped by a personalized approach to service and design-forward accommodations, the essence of these places has been captured by photographs that offer a progressive and personal perspective on these already iconic destinations, in turn, showing each property in a new light.

Copacabana Palace: Rio’s Energetic Spirit

Set along the iconic curve of Copacabana Beach, the Copa hums with energy from sunrise swims to sunset caipirinhas by its legendary pool.

Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel is the heartbeat of Rio—an address where the city’s electric spirit, beachside allure, and cosmopolitan edge all converge. Set along the iconic curve of Copacabana Beach, the Copa hums with energy from sunrise swims to sunset caipirinhas by its legendary pool. Inside, the mood is equally vibrant: a meeting point for culture seekers, business travelers, epicureans, and sun-chasers who come for the city’s pulse and stay for the Copa’s unmistakable charisma. It’s Rio at its most effortless and exuberant, a cosmopolitan playground where locals and global tastemakers mingle in style.

Yet beneath the glamour of the present lies a century of storied history. When the hotel opened in 1923—crafted by architect Joseph Gire and inspired by the grand hotels of the Côte d’Azur—it instantly became Brazil’s stage for high society, artistic expression, and global intrigue. Its eclectic and Art Deco design set the tone for a destination where the world’s elite gathered: Brigitte Bardot strolls along the sand, Albert Einstein lectures upstairs, and the Rolling Stones soundtrack the night. Today, guests can choose between the Palace Building’s historic opulence or the Deco Building’s contemporary indulgence, experiencing firsthand why the Copa remains a symbol of legendary glamour—a place where Rio doesn’t just begin, but endlessly unfolds.

Maroma: The Beating Heart of the Riviera Maya

…shaped by generations of Mayan masons, the resort reflects an artisanal ethos that honors both its history and the cultural traditions of the region.

Maroma’s story is rooted in sacred architecture and authentic craftsmanship, a property originally shaped by believers in Sacred Geometry who aligned its white-stucco buildings with the land’s natural energy fields. Built entirely from local materials—palm, bamboo, and stone from Mérida—and shaped by generations of Mayan masons, the resort reflects an artisanal ethos that honors both its history and the cultural traditions of the region. Perhaps most notably, Maroma, a Belmond Hotel is set along a gorgeous white sand beach lapped by the vibrant Caribbean Sea, where lush sands, revered cenotes, and an intricate network of underwater caves create a landscape that feels both empowering and deeply connected to nature’s mysticism.

A stay here is all about surrendering to the rhythm of Riviera Maya days—slow, sun-drenched, and effortlessly sensual. Guests drift between serene pools and the sea’s turquoise edge, pausing only for memorable meals that spotlight regional flavors or for spa rituals that draw on ancient healing traditions and the energy of the surrounding jungle. Whether you’re exploring a sacred cenote, meditating beneath the palms, or simply listening to the waves from a shaded terrace, Maroma invites you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world in a way that feels both restorative and transcendent.

Cap Juluca: Where Island Bliss Finds Its Meaning

…many of the beloved “Julucans” have been here since the resort opened in 1988, weaving warmth and welcome into every stay.

Cap Juluca has always been the kind of place that teaches you what island bliss really means. Set across 179 acres on Anguilla’s southwestern tip, the resort curves gracefully along two sugar-soft coves on Maundays Bay—a setting so cinematic it practically begs you to exhale. This is where the island’s barefoot ease meets a refined, quietly glamorous indulgence, the kind that drew the global jet set long before Instagram discovered it. And yet, what makes Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, truly special is its sense of family; many of the beloved “Julucans” have been here since the resort opened in 1988, weaving warmth and welcome into every stay. Days unfold between sunrise yoga, breezy Guerlain spa rituals, and spirited tennis matches—all designed to leave you feeling as restored as the sea looks.

After its 2018 renovation, Cap Juluca emerged brighter than ever, thanks to designer Lauren Rottet’s blend of natural authenticity and modern comfort. Local artisans shaped everything from the curved architectural details to the jewel-toned accents that echo Anguilla’s blues and greens. The result feels like a Caribbean stage set just for you: a hideaway where you can slip into your silver-screen alter ego, whether lounging poolside, wandering crescent beaches, or sipping something cold as the sun melts into the bay. It’s no wonder the resort has captivated the likes of Liam Neeson, Denzel Washington, and Princess Alexandra—Cap Juluca is, and always has been, the sort of place that makes everyone feel like an icon in their own island story.

What drew them all here wasn’t just luxury—it was the ineffable sense of connection, history, and warmth that defines this beloved pink palace.

Mount Nelson is Cape Town’s joyful pink icon—a hotel with a legacy as vibrant as its pastel façade. Originally the family estate of Sir Hamilton Ross, the property evolved into a grand hotel in 1899 and quickly captured international acclaim. Its signature blush hue was introduced in 1918 to celebrate the end of WWI, while the Greek-columned entrance and palm-lined driveway were later added to honor the Prince of Wales. Over the decades, the Nellie has welcomed everyone from Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela to Marlene Dietrich and Leonardo DiCaprio. What drew them all here wasn’t just luxury—it was the ineffable sense of connection, history, and warmth that defines this beloved pink palace.

What truly sets Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel apart is its nine-acre garden oasis—a rare green sanctuary in the heart of Cape Town. Beneath canopies of wild olive trees and alongside 200-year-old sentinels, vineyards, and an aviary, guests can wander, unwind, and embrace the property’s park-like calm. Days might include tennis, swimming, or sunrise yoga under the open sky, while picnics on the expansive lawns (all set against the dramatic rise of Table Mountain!) offer a beloved local escape. Here, Mount Nelson becomes not just a place to stay but a verdant world of its own.

Splendido: The Radiant Stage of Portofino

…Splendido’s greatest luxury is the sense of peace it evokes—the feeling of being tucked away, yet effortlessly connected to the beauty below.

Splendido, a Belmond Hotel is Portofino at its most transportive—a radiant hillside escape that lets you rise above the village’s lively rhythm and slip into a world where time seems to unfurl more slowly. Perched high above the harbor, the property offers a rare kind of stillness, the kind that invites you to shed the everyday and surrender to pure, carefree indulgence. Its historic architecture and sweeping terraces feel suspended between sea and sky, each balcony and patio angled toward Portofino’s astonishing panorama. Whether you’re gazing across the bay from a sun-drenched nook or wandering through fragrant hillside paths, Splendido’s greatest luxury is the sense of peace it evokes—the feeling of being tucked away, yet effortlessly connected to the beauty below.

At the heart of this reverie is the seawater pool, a serene sanctuary where the essence of the Ligurian Sea is distilled into a private, pampering experience. Guests drift between loungers and cool dips, wrapped in the quiet pleasure of being both seen and cared for, relishing the kind of rejuvenation only Splendido seems to master. Yet for all its tranquility, the property has always been a palace of conviviality, a backdrop for celebrations that have become part of Portofino’s lore. From Richard Burton proposing to Elizabeth Taylor to Madonna ringing in her 50th birthday, Splendido has long drawn royals, Hollywood icons, and discerning travelers seeking both intimacy and delight. To stay here is to become part of that joyful lineage—a place where memories aren’t just made, but cherished.

Hotel Cipriani: The Venetian Oasis Where Legends are Made

Over time, Cipriani has developed a personality as captivating as its guests: bold yet refined, indulgent yet intimate, a world unto itself that feels lifted straight from the golden age of travel.

Hotel Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel is where Venice’s legend comes to life—a place where profound glamour and effortless serenity have intertwined since Giuseppe Cipriani first opened its doors in 1958. For decades, the hotel has been a magnet for European jetsetters, Hollywood A-listers, artists, royals, and cultural icons who arrived not only to see and be seen but to revel in the hotel’s singular charisma. Over time, Cipriani has developed a personality as captivating as its guests: bold yet refined, indulgent yet intimate, a world unto itself that feels lifted straight from the golden age of travel. Step onto its grounds and you understand instantly—you’re entering a chapter of Venetian history that continues to shape the mythos of this extraordinary city.

Yet what truly defines the Cipriani experience is its role as the true heir to La Serenissima (meaning, “The Most Serene Republic of Venice”). While the center of town around St. Mark’s Square hums with crowds, on the island of Giudecca, just a few minutes’ water taxi away, the hotel’s gardens offer a soft, secluded exhale—a return to the quiet luxury affluent Venetians once sought here centuries ago. Guests slip easily between the cultural riches of Venice and the restorative calm of the hotel, finding sanctuary in a space that feels both timeless and deeply personal. At the heart of it all lies the famed saltwater pool, a travertine-clad icon whose oversized footprint (thanks to a happy architectural miscalculation in which feet were mistaken for metres) has made it one of Venice’s most coveted scenes. To swim or sun here is to join a select lineage, summering in the city with an ease and elegance that only Cipriani can inspire.

Caruso: The Haven Beyond Sky & Sea

Caruso, a Belmond Hotel is Ravello at its most romantic—a haven suspended between history and the heavens. Set within a meticulously restored 11th-century palace, the property carries the soul of its past in every vaulted archway, frescoed corridor, and stone passageway, while embracing the ease and elegance of modern luxury. Wander through its terraced gardens and you feel the centuries unfold around you, the architecture echoing the cultural richness that has long made Ravello a refuge for artists, dreamers, and lovers chasing beauty along the Amalfi Coast.

And then there’s the infinity pool, Caruso’s shimmering crown jewel, often called one of the most beautiful in the world.

Yet nothing captures Caruso’s magic quite like its perspective—perched on the cliffs at the very edge of the horizon, where sea and sky dissolve into one. Here, views spill endlessly across the Tyrrhenian, turning every balcony, pathway, and quiet corner into a front-row seat to the coast’s breathtaking sweep. And then there’s the infinity pool, Caruso’s shimmering crown jewel, often called one of the most beautiful in the world. Floating at its edge feels like swimming in the sky itself, a moment where gravity softens, time disappears, and the Amalfi Coast reveals its most transcendent self.

La Residencia: The Sanctuary of Artistic Energy

La Residencia is the soul of Deià—an intimate sanctuary where artistic energy seems to hang in the air in every cozy corner of the sweeping property. Once an agricultural estate sustained by centuries-old olive groves and orchards, the property has transformed over the past four decades into a magnetic creative enclave. Under Sir Richard Branson’s stewardship, it became a hideaway for musicians, writers, directors, and cultural icons—Bono, Bob Geldof, Pierce Brosnan, and even Princess Diana—each drawn to its bohemian heartbeat and natural beauty. Today, as a Belmond hotel, that legacy lives on through an esteemed contemporary art collection and a thriving artist residency program, ensuring that inspiration remains the currency of the house and that La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel continues to champion the creative spirit that shaped its past.

Set between the UNESCO-protected Serra de Tramuntana mountains and the shimmering Mediterranean, La Residencia offers a landscape as stirring as the art it inspires. Terraces frame vistas of green-cloaked peaks and endless blue water, while three hillside pools create the sensation of swimming directly within the mountains. At the heart of the property’s culinary expression is El Olivo, where Mallorcan flavors unfold as a multi-course work of art—served beneath the stars or within a 16th-century farmhouse surrounded by ancient olive trees. With handcrafted local ceramics, contemporary Mallorcan artworks, and views that feel painted by nature itself, La Residencia is a place where creativity isn’t just encouraged—it’s unavoidable.

Grand Hotel Timeo: The Front Row to Sicily’s Eternal Beauty

Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn fell under its spell; and generations of wanderers have come here to feel part of Sicily’s enduring story.

Grand Hotel Timeo offers a front-row seat to some of Sicily’s most captivating stories; this is a place where millennia of myth, art, and romance converge. Its origins trace back to Timaeus, the great Greek historian and son of Taormina’s founder, and its setting beside the ancient Greek Theatre gives the hotel a direct line to the island’s dramatic past. What began in the 19th century as the private home of Don Francesco La Floresta soon blossomed into Taormina’s first hotel, welcoming travelers eager to witness the views immortalized by artist Otto Geleng. As the town transformed from a quiet fishing village into a coveted escape, Timeo became the haunt of Europe’s elite—aristocrats, artists, film stars, and free spirits seeking a place where creativity and beauty thrived without constraint. D.H. Lawrence and Tennessee Williams wrote from its terrace; Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn fell under its spell; and generations of wanderers have come here to feel part of Sicily’s enduring story.

The hotel’s hillside gardens and volcanic vistas only deepen the enchantment. Built into the cliffs of Taormina, Grand Hotel Timeo, a Belmond Hotel overlooks the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna in a panorama so sweeping it feels almost otherworldly. Terraced lawns spill down the hillside, hosting picnics, open-air art exhibits, and moonlit musical performances. And then there is the legendary Literary Terrace—where writers, painters, and Hollywood icons have long gathered to create, converse, and revel in the view that stretches from manicured gardens to deep blue waters to Etna’s smoking summit. It remains an irresistible sanctuary for contemplation and inspiration, proof that at Grand Hotel Timeo, beauty isn’t just observed—it’s lived.

VSOE: Step Onto A Legend in Motion

…the train’s literary and cinematic legacy, from Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to Bond’s spycraft and Hitchcock’s mysteries, and it becomes clear why the VSOE has captivated travelers and storytellers for nearly a century.

Step aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and you enter the golden age of travel—an era of opulence, intrigue, and a joie de vivre that still gleams through every midnight-blue carriage. Champagne once flowed beneath Lalique panels as royalty, diplomats, artists, and bon vivants gathered in Louis XIV–style salons, swapping stories over cigars and live music while Europe’s grand châteaux drifted past the windows. The train’s interiors remain a world unto themselves: Baccarat and Saint-Louis crystal, Haviland china, and original Art Deco marquetry crafted by the same artisans who shaped the train nearly a century ago. These legendary objects—gleaming porcelain, crystal glasses, intricate woodwork—root you in the romance of the past while offering a striking canvas for contemporary design touches. Layer in the train’s literary and cinematic legacy, from Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to Bond’s spycraft and Hitchcock’s mysteries, and it becomes clear why the VSOE has captivated travelers and storytellers for nearly a century.

Yet the true magic of the VSOE lies in the Europe it reveals—its shifting moods, remote contours, and lesser-seen edges unfolding outside your window. From lacquered cabins and plush armchairs, passengers watch Alpine giants rise along the Gotthard Pass, Champagne’s rolling vineyards unfurl in soft green waves, and the wilder landscapes of Eastern Europe pulse with folklore and shadow. Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria give way to thick riparian forests, mirrored lakes, and the winding arteries of the Danube, all leading toward the storied domes and minarets of Istanbul. Every bend in the track offers a new perspective, a fresh chapter in a journey where history, beauty, craft, and imagination move in perfect rhythm.

Ready to book your stay at a Belmond Legend? Connect with a SmartFlyer travel advisor to get planning.

After several years of meticulous construction and design work, The Carlton, a Rocco Forte Hotel has opened its doors just in time for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics (February 6th-22nd, 2026) and Salone del Mobile Milano (April 21st-26th, 2026). But even with global events aside, based on our 2026 Travel Trends Report in which we highlighted all eyes being on Northern Italy, our latest booking data shows a clear pivot north, where fashion, design, and alpine adventure are stealing the spotlight.

While this is Italy’s fashion capital, it’s also an engine of reinvention.

Known as the design capital of the world, Milan acts as a hub for creativity and increasingly is setting the bar for metropolitan locales around the globe. From grand palazzos housing avant-garde galleries to centuries-old ateliers coexisting with concept stores and cutting-edge design studios, there are endless sides to this city begging to be discovered. While this is Italy’s fashion capital, it’s also an engine of reinvention. Worldly and walkable, Milan blends historical gravitas with modern edge, ensuring it remains both deeply rooted in its culture and endlessly evolving.

Location, Location, Location

A modern homage to a legendary name, The Carlton aims to reintroduce Milan’s most elegant thoroughfare to a new generation of travelers. The property occupies an enviable position in the heart of the Quadrilatero della Moda, bridging the pulse of the city with the intimacy of a private residence. Guests enter through dual entrances—Via Senato or the discreet Via della Spiga—arriving to a world where Italian artistry and quiet modernity coexist in balance.

Set within the city’s fashion district, The Carlton sits mere steps from La Scala, The Duomo, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Its location allows guests to experience Milan as insiders: worldly yet walkable, creative yet composed. Ten minutes from Milano Centrale Station and under an hour from both Malpensa and Bergamo airports, the hotel offers seamless access while feeling like a sanctuary.

The surrounding neighborhood epitomizes Milan’s duality with heritage ateliers and modern concept stores, grand palazzos and minimalist galleries all within reach. From its terrace overlooking Via della Spiga, The Carlton reveals the city’s softer rhythms: aperitivo hour stretching golden, footsteps echoing on cobblestones, the hum of design studios carrying through open windows.

Family-Owned and Design-Led

Recently, we were able to check in with the Rocco Forte family to learn more about how this family-owned brand has created its collection of exquisite European hotels. Sir Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi grew up learning the hospitality ropes from their father, Lord Forte at Trust House Forte, which later became Forte Hotels. For Sir Rocco, The Carlton’s opening represents more than an expansion—it’s a homecoming to Italy’s creative capital. It channels the brand’s ethos of authenticity and sense of place, joining icons like Hotel de la Ville in Rome and Verdura Resort in Sicily under the same familial care.

“With every family member involved in the hotel’s creation from the room design to the spa menu, the opening has been a great exercise in collaboration and another exciting step in the evolution of our family brand.” – Sir Rocco Forte

We had the opportunity to check in Sir Rocco to learn first-hand about how long it took for The Carlton to take from the acquisition of the property to opening, as well as what makes The Carlton a milestone for the family brand. He shared,  “Milan has long been a city we wanted to be part of, but finding the right property took patience. We looked at several over the years and lost one or two along the way, but when we discovered this building—so central, full of character and potential—we knew it was the right one. It had the energy and spirit that make a great hotel, and we saw immediately what it could become. Every new hotel carries our family’s name and therefore its values—The Carlton will be no different. With every family member involved in the hotel’s creation from the room design to the spa menu, the opening has been a great exercise in collaboration and another exciting step in the evolution of our family brand.”

The Carlton was designed by Olga Polizzi in collaboration with Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, the hotel’s seventy-one rooms and suites reinterpret Milanese sophistication with contemporary ease—soft palettes, refined materials, and a pervasive sense of light. Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman and Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, carefully considers the history and culture of each hotel’s location as the brand expands in service of that legacy. The design reflects a dialogue between tradition and innovation—where gilded mirrors meet modern art, and light plays across textured fabrics. Every element, from the curve of an armchair to the hue of a marble vein, reflects Milan’s devotion to design. The result is a hotel that feels collected, not decorated; expressive yet understated.

“Our inspiration came more from the city itself—the Milanese sense of elegance and restraint, that quiet confidence that doesn’t need to shout.” – Olga Polizzi

Polizzi’s design ethos is rooted in her belief that design must reflect not just sophistication and discerning taste, but the genuine warmth of the welcome offered to guests. Knowing how thoughtful she is in the approach to each property, we checked in with her directly to learn why she decided to collaborate with Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen for this project. She shared, “All our hotels have a strong sense of place, and that must come through in the design. Anyone I collaborate with needs to understand and respect that. What The Carlton lacked in architectural distinction, it made up for in promise. Having worked on many projects already with Paolo and Philip, I had no doubt their imagination and collaborative approach would enable us to create something new and exciting. Of all the projects we’ve worked on together, this is where we had to really reinterpret the building’s legacy and strengthen its sense of heritage. Our inspiration came more from the city itself—the Milanese sense of elegance and restraint, that quiet confidence that doesn’t need to shout.”

The Carlton embodies Rocco Forte Hotels’ enduring commitment to craftsmanship and family-led design. Inside, each space tells a story: suites layered with hand-selected marbles and silks; terraces framing the Duomo’s spires; salons filled with Italian art. The Manzoni Suite balances contemporary artistry with residential comfort; the Galleria Suite celebrates sweeping views; and the Presidential Suite (pictured below) offers an opulent terrace overlooking Via della Spiga.”

Wellbeing, Milanese Style

Culinary experiences on property are led by Fulvio Pierangelini, whose menus reinterpret Milanese classics through a lens of joyful simplicity. Expect delicate saffron risotto elevated by subtle citrus, or a perfectly crisp cotoletta that feels at once nostalgic and new. The Carlton Bar channels the city’s social heartbeat, from morning espresso rituals to aperitivo hour, where the low hum of conversation mingles with the clink of crystal glasses and the faint aroma of Campari. Every dish, every pour, reflects Milan’s ethos of beauty in precision—artistry disguised as ease.

“For the Milan guest, wellbeing means the ability to pause amid the pace—to experience something deeply natural, restorative, and Italian in spirit.” – Irene Forte

Downstairs, the Irene Forte Spa infuses Sicilian botanicals and advanced technology, offering wellness rituals that restore balance amid the city’s energy. Treatments draw on nutrient-rich ingredients from the family’s organic farm in Sicily, pairing Mediterranean ingredients with modern science to create a serene refuge beneath the bustle of Via della Spiga. We chatted with Irene to better understand her approach to what defines wellness for the Milan guest at the Irene Forte Spa. “Milan is a fast, creative city—full of energy, design, and fashion—but that also means people live at a constant pace. At the Irene Forte Spa, I want to offer guests a space that allows them to slow down, to ground themselves, and to feel genuinely well, not just pampered for an hour,” Irene shares. “Wellbeing should be available at every touch point of a hotel stay—not just the spa, but in the room, in the restaurant, throughout the guest experience. For the Milan guest, wellbeing means the ability to pause amid the pace—to experience something deeply natural, restorative, and Italian in spirit. It’s a moment of stillness in the most vibrant city in Italy.”

The Art of Milanese Dining

At The Carlton, culinary expression becomes an extension of the city itself—elegant, stylish, and quietly confident. Under the direction of Fulvio Pierangelini, the property’s restaurants celebrate Milan’s appetite for authenticity over artifice. His menus reflect the city’s tempo: fast yet thoughtful, refined yet never ostentatious. Expect dishes that honor Milan’s culinary heritage through simplicity and soul—like a saffron risotto brightened with citrus or a cotoletta that recalls tradition while feeling entirely new. Each bite mirrors the brand’s philosophy that true sophistication lies in restraint and that the best flavors speak for themselves.

“He’s not interested in trends or overcomplication—he believes in simplicity, in honesty, in flavour. That’s very much the essence of Italian hospitality, which sits at the heart of who we are as a family and as a brand.” – Lydia Forte

As Lydia Forte explains, partnering with Pierangelini was a natural choice for a city that thrives on both creativity and integrity. “In Milan, we wanted to create something that feels true to the city—elegant, stylish, but never pretentious,” she shares. “Milan is fast, sophisticated, and creative, yet people here really appreciate quality and authenticity. Fulvio has been part of our family for many years now, and there’s a very natural alignment between his philosophy and ours. He approaches food with soul. He’s not interested in trends or overcomplication—he believes in simplicity, in honesty, in flavour. That’s very much the essence of Italian hospitality, which sits at the heart of who we are as a family and as a brand.” This alignment of vision defines The Carlton’s dining experience: where conviviality meets craftsmanship, and every plate tells a story of Italian hospitality distilled to its purest form.

Built For the Modern Milanese Traveler

The Carlton appeals to travelers who move through the world with intention—those who appreciate beauty not for its grandeur but for its craft. Here, design lovers, culinary enthusiasts, business travelers, and culture seekers converge over espresso or a Negroni, trading notes on galleries, architecture, and the latest restaurant openings. It’s a place for couples rediscovering Milan through an insider’s lens, families weaving design and discovery into their days, and locals seeking a stylish sanctuary for lunch or aperitivo. Whether you’re arriving from a morning at La Scala, an afternoon of gallery hopping in Brera, or a day of meetings in Porta Nuova, The Carlton offers a space that feels both worldly and distinctly personal. The Carlton’s Milanese spirit lies in its balance: bold yet refined, glamorous yet grounded—an address where craftsmanship meets contemporary life, and where every stay feels like a masterclass in the art of living beautifully.

While there are a handful of vetted operators traveling to Antarctica, it remains the most elusive continent to set foot on. But getting there is just part of the journey when we set up clients with our partners at White Desert. The company was founded not only on its mission to connect travelers to this difficult-to-reach part of the world but also to create a positive impact on Antarctica’s future. Carbon Neutral since 2007, White Desert was the first Antarctic operator to trial Sustainable Aviation Fuel on the seventh continent.

Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can dive into availability and the different camps – Whichaway, Echo, and Wolf’s Fang – but we’re here to start with the story behind the brand. To capture the full picture, we sat down with Patrick Woodhead, Co-Founder and CEO, to hear about his vision, and how White Desert has evolved since 2004.

SmartFlyer: Patrick, you fell in love with Antarctica on your first visit in the early 2000s. What inspired your initial visit and what were your first impressions?

Patrick Woodhead: When I was a teenager, I had the great fortune of listening to a talk given by Sir Ranulph Fiennes, a man dubbed “the world’s greatest explorer.” The impact of hearing his story undoubtedly led to me pursuing my career in polar exploration. I’ve taken part in several expeditions in Antarctica since my first visit in 2002, the first as a member of the youngest and fastest team to ever reach the South Pole.

In 2004, the idea for White Desert occurred on a separate expedition while we were on a 2000-mile traverse across Antarctica. It was hard, it was cold, and we were stuck in a tent. But during that time, we came up with this wonderful dream of flying in via private jet, staying in luxury accommodations, and incredible food. We dreamt up this whole experience while we were in this uncomfortable setup; we just thought, “Wouldn’t it be extraordinary for other people to see a place seen by fewer than 800 tourists a year?” To put that in context, more people try to climb Everest each year than get to the interior of Antarctica.

SF: How long did it take after that first trip to ideate what became White Desert? Was sustainability always a part of your core mission?

As Sir David Attenborough says, “No one will protect what they don’t care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”

PW: The first – admittedly more rustic – iteration of White Desert was founded in 2005, roughly a year after the idea came to be. My lifelong journey into Antarctica began with the same tenets I hold all these years later: I was adamant that sustainability and luxury would remain at the heart of the White Desert operation. As Sir David Attenborough says, “No one will protect what they don’t care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”  Two decades later, I’m proud to say this philosophy still stands true. At White Desert, we are constantly looking to the future of sustainability and pioneering new technologies. When we first started building the camps, we did huge environmental impact assessments and designed a camp with no foundation. So when we leave, there’ll be literally no trace.

From the very beginning, we designed our entire supply chain to eliminate plastics and that has not changed nearly twenty years later. We backload smaller items of rubbish on every flight. When it comes to bigger items, all of this refuse is traversed back to the icebreaker vessel and shipped back to Cape Town. We then have an operator in South Africa that recycles all items that can be such as plastics and metal – while the human waste is composted. White Desert has been Carbon Neutral since 2007. We offset all our flights, activities, and projects to ensure that we achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We are also investing in blue carbon initiatives which focus on seagrass restoration projects. Our team ensures that exploration into these exceptional wildernesses can be done mindfully, always in harmony with the environment, and without losing our signature sense of pioneering luxury.

SF: We’ve been told that space exploration inspired the White Desert concept. Tell us more about how you see the two worlds converging. 

PW: Space exploration has revealed such mysterious landscapes across the Universe. This quest for the unknown – and once found, the enjoyment of watching it – inspired the design of the ’Sky Pods’ at Echo, our most recent eco-camp. The design of the ‘Sky Pods’ at Echo was based on my childhood fascination with space travel and a dream to explore the farthest reaches of the galaxy onboard the Millennium Falcon. White Desert holds a fantastic relationship with several astronauts who have visited Antarctica. I was lucky enough to host Buzz Aldrin on his trip to Antarctica, an unforgettable moment in my life. One very famous astronaut, Colonel Terry Virts, former ISS commander, commented that the mountains in Antarctica were the most beautiful that he had seen across Earth. Antarctica is also the closest place on Earth to the surface of Mars and the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn.

SF: We’re often asked how to get to Antarctica. What does the journey look like for White Desert clients?

PW: All of our trips depart from Cape Town, South Africa to Wolf’s Fang Runway – our blue ice runway in Antarctica. The flight is just five hours and passes across the Polar Circle, soaring over thousands of icebergs and passing into 24 hours of continuous sunshine.

SF: We love that you’ve created “The Greatest Day” for those who are limited on time. Tell us about this epic experience.  

PW: I wanted to create “The Greatest Day” journey as a chance for our guests to experience the real interior of Antarctica in a single day – something few people on Earth have the chance to do. The Greatest Day adventure includes three to four hours on ice which allows guests to experience a taste of Antarctica before returning to Cape Town. It is a singular bucket list adventure that highlights just how small we are as humans in contrast to the grand scale of this remote and pristine continent. 

SF: You have three camps: Whichaway, Echo, and Wolf’s Fang. How are they different from one another?

PW: White Desert’s uniquely located camps are designed to be easily dismantled and removed, leaving no trace on the pristine environment. A true oasis of luxury and adventure lies nestled deep within the glacial landscape of Antarctica. Our flagship camp, Whichaway, got its name because when I was looking for a place to build the camp, I got lost and wasn’t sure which-a-way to go! Set on a series of freshwater lakes, Whichaway camp is situated on a rare rocky outcrop at the edge of an ancient glacier. Sophisticated and luxurious, Whichaway camp is encircled by an enormous cliff made of iridescent blue ice. The six-bedroom pods are elegant and warm, while the communal spaces provide the perfect base for meals, cocktail hours, and relaxation between activities – including a Canadian cedar sauna.

 Inspired by astronauts and used by explorers, Echo Base is utterly unique. Entering the camp feels like stepping off planet Earth and entering a galaxy far, far away…spires of rock pierce the glacial landscape, towering kilometers straight into the air; surrounded by some of the planet’s most spectacular scenery, Echo’s distinctive ‘Sky Pods’ look more suited to a colony on Mars. Each of the six bedrooms is equipped with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, connecting you to the lunar landscape outside. The ‘Cosmos’ – our central hub comprising lounge, library, and dining and shower rooms – offers guests a chance to savor sophisticated yet unpretentious meals, connect with the earthly moonscape views in all directions, or lose oneself within the infinite space of an Anthony James art installation.

Wolf’s Fang is our expedition and transit camp. Wolf’s Fang caters to our more adventurous guests and is the ideal base for them to explore, with six state-of-the-art sleeping tents around a welcoming central lounge and dining area. Wolf’s Fang blends luxury with a light environmental touch and its style draws on the golden age of polar explorers.   

SF: What does a typical day look like for a White Desert guest?

Their day comprises of anything from abseiling off a nearby nunatak, ice-climbing, or a gentle hike to view the mesmerizing ice tunnels and ice waves at the edge of the continent.

PW: On a trip with White Desert, our guests will awaken in the comfort of their heated pods at either Whichaway or Echo Base. A hearty breakfast of freshly baked bread, brewed coffee, and a variety of hot breakfast items awaits them in the communal dining area. After breakfast, our high mountain guides will chat through the day’s activities with our guests – weather-dependent of course – as we are in the world’s most mercurial environment. Their day comprises of anything from abseiling off a nearby nunatak, ice-climbing, or a gentle hike to view the mesmerizing ice tunnels and ice waves at the edge of the continent. Our signature highlights also include a visit to the Emperor Penguin colony at Atka Bay – a spectacle of more than 28, 000 breeding pairs and their chicks.

After such an exhilarating day spent outdoors, guests can enjoy a session with our in-camp physiotherapist or yoga instructor. A favorite feature of our camp has to be the Canadian Cedar Polar sauna – perhaps the ultimate relaxation and luxury in this part of the world. As the light dims somewhat (remember the sun shines 24/7 here!) our guests can enjoy ‘Cocktail Hour’ and sample some of our signature drinks like the Katabatic or Snow Queen. Dinner is a showcase of culinary skills worthy of a five-star Michelin restaurant. Our chefs source the finest produce from South Africa, served with award-winning Cape Vineyard’s varietals.

SF: What is the biggest misconception about travel to Antarctica that you aim to dispel?

PW: I think many people have the misconception that travel to this region cannot be done in true comfort or sustainably. The beauty of White Desert trips is that they are designed for anyone with a desire to explore this mythical continent. With a maximum of just twelve guests on any trip, we can cater to those guests wanting a more leisurely experience, simply enjoying the landscape and views. For those wanting to achieve something more adventurous, our high mountain guides can channel their inner polar explorer whilst abseiling off a nunatak, or exploring an ice cave beneath the glacier.

We had Bear Grylls on the same trip as a Saudi princess who had never seen snow before. One is trying to climb and jump off everything, the other is terrified to walk outdoors. Our clients range from former Apollo astronauts (like Buzz Aldrin) to family groups wishing to share a bucket list holiday together. Normally you can only come via a cruise ship and just touch the peninsula and the icebergs. What we wanted to show people is what explorers and a few scientists got to see, which is the deep interior of Antarctica, which is staggeringly beautiful, seldom seen, and incredibly peaceful.

SF: What do you aim for your guests to return home having felt and learned during their White Desert experience?

PW: Our hope is that the White Desert journey will forever reframe travelers’ view of their place on this planet. Hopefully, they become Antarctic Ambassadors and maybe they’ll return home to make small, which over time can have big ripple effects all the way down to Antarctica.

More than just a luxury hotel, the Waldorf Astoria New York has been a stage for presidents, royalty, celebrities, and cultural moments since the 1890s. Now, the storied landmark has reopened its gilded doors to great acclaim with more than just a facelift, but a complete reimagining. This new era breathes fresh life into the Waldorf Astoria, where new tales are set to unfold against a foundation steeped in story.

From Rivalry to Royalty

…a place to see and be seen, where New York’s social elite paraded past journalists and society-watchers sipping whiskey.

For those who really want to dig into its history (calling all The Gilded Age fans), the Waldorf story begins not on Park Avenue, but with a family feud. In 1893, William Waldorf Astor opened the Waldorf Hotel on Fifth Avenue at 34th Street. Just four years later, his cousin, John Jacob Astor IV—never one to be outdone—built the neighboring Astoria Hotel, towering over the Waldorf. Fortuitously, their rivalry ended when a visionary manager suggested joining forces. In 1899, the hotels were linked by a grand corridor known as Peacock Alley—a place to see and be seen, where New York’s social elite paraded past journalists and society-watchers sipping whiskey. Today, the name “Peacock Alley” lives on as a signature of the Waldorf Astoria brand worldwide.

The original Waldorf-Astoria stood until 1929, when it was demolished to make way for the Empire State Building. By 1931, the “new” Waldorf Astoria opened on Park Avenue, with President Herbert Hoover presiding over the inauguration via radio—at the time, it was a symbol of America’s resilience after the stock market crash. Quickly, the hotel became the city’s most glamorous address.

Legends Lived Here

In its gilded ballrooms, history wasn’t just made but choreographed to perfection.

For decades, the Waldorf was both playground and home to the world’s most influential figures. Cole Porter composed at his custom mother-of-pearl–inlaid Steinway in Suite 33A. Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor called the Towers home. President Hoover lived here for thirty years after leaving office; President Franklin D. Roosevelt arrived discreetly via Track 61, the hotel’s hidden private subway platform. The guestbook reads like a roll call of 20th-century royalty—Grace Kelly, Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill. The Met Gala was born here. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame was hosted here. In its gilded ballrooms, history wasn’t just made but choreographed to perfection.

Culinary Firsts and Cultural Touchstones

The Waldorf Salad, Eggs Benedict, and even red velvet cake were all born in its kitchens.

The Waldorf has given the world more than memories. The Waldorf Salad, Eggs Benedict, and even red velvet cake were all born in its kitchens. It was the first New York hotel with electricity on every floor, the first with private baths in every room, and the pioneer of 24-hour room service—all now-standard luxuries at hotels around the world.

On our recent scouting visit, our discerning team fell head over heels in love with our dining experience at Lex Yard. Aside from meeting Chef Michael Anthony himself (an absolute delight!), we were all too impressed with his reimaging of the Waldorf Salad—a recipe that reportedly took him months to perfect. But it wasn’t just the classic salad or the spin on the red velvet cake that had us swooning; we were equally impressed with the locally sourced seafood, particularly the Montauk shrimp that Chef had thoughtfully cured to perfection. Long story short, whether you’re a guest, local, or passerby, dine here. You won’t be disappointed.

Eight Years of Remodeling

When the hotel closed in 2017, it wasn’t for a facelift. Every one of the original 1,400 rooms was stripped away, making space for a highly reduced room count of just 375 ultra-luxury accommodations—including some of the largest guest rooms in the city, starting at 600 square feet. Above the 12th floor, private residences now occupy the Towers, with separate amenities ensuring hotel guests and residents experience equal levels of privacy and exclusivity.

…lobby still anchored by the original Queen Victoria-gifted clock and Cole Porter’s original Steinway piano.

Original architectural elements, from the soaring Art Deco lobby to the 1941 ballroom chandeliers, have been painstakingly restored. Elsewhere, modern craftsmanship has brought the hotel into the present without erasing its past—think Nicholas Oakwell-designed staff attire and a lobby still anchored by the original Queen Victoria-gifted clock and Cole Porter’s original Steinway piano.

The New Era of the Waldorf Astoria New York

The reopening reveals a Waldorf designed for a new generation of discerning travelers. Highlights include: 

• Largest Spa in New York City: Spanning 30,000 square feet across an entire floor, the Guerlain Spa offers seventeen treatment rooms, sauna and steam areas, and a menu of bespoke treatments exclusive to the property. 

• Expansive Suites: New suite products range from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet, many with multiple bedrooms and interconnecting configurations. 

• Culinary Excellence: Chef Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern leads the hotel’s restaurants, including Lex Yard, an American brasserie; the revived Peacock Alley; and Yoshoku, a Japanese dining concept blending Kaiseki tradition with New York flair. 

• Event Spaces with Gravitas: The restored Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 1,500 guests and retains its original chandeliers. Once again, it’s poised to host the city’s most prestigious galas.

In A New York Minute 

The Waldorf’s return is not just about reopening a hotel—it’s about reclaiming a piece of New York’s cultural fabric. From its origin story steeped in society drama to its role as a global stage for diplomacy, art, and high style, the Waldorf Astoria New York has shaped the very idea of luxury hospitality. Today, it welcomes travelers to check in to a piece of living history without sacrificing modern comforts, where every detail honors the past while embracing the best of what’s next.