Luxury Travel News from Around the World (May 2024)
Our latest luxury travel news round-up features a variety of new and exciting events. From the debut of Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s first Middle Eastern property, Nujuma, on Ummahat Island, to Hyatt’s introduction of ATONA, a modern hot spring ryokan brand in Japan, there’s a lot happening in the world of luxury travel.
Four Seasons Private Jet Experience Reveals 2026 Itineraries
Four Seasons has unveiled its 2026 Private Jet Journeys, offering travelers new ways to explore the world’s most captivating destinations. These itineraries go beyond jet travel and luxury accommodations, including bespoke experiences ranging from bold culinary adventures to wellness offerings, cultural insights, and adventure expeditions. Each journey is delivered by a dedicated concierge team and local experts to inspire transformative travel experiences.
The six new itineraries for 2026 include:
– African Wonders: December 29, 2025, to January 10, 2026 (13 days)
– Asia Unveiled: January 14 to 29, 2026, and March 28 to April 12, 2026 (16 days)
– Timeless Encounters: February 2 to 23, 2026 (22 days)
– Ancient Explorer: March 4 to 26, 2026 (23 days)
– International Intrigue: April 14 to May 4, 2026 (21 days)
New Luxury Resort in Indonesia: Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Resort
Minor Hotels has signed an agreement to manage a new resort and residences on Bali’s Seseh Beach. Opening in 2027, the Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Resort will be the first luxury beachfront property on Seseh Beach and the third Anantara Hotels & Resorts property in Bali. Designed by British architect John Dawes, the resort’s architecture draws from Bali’s mystical Barong legend, offering a mix of rooms and suites that provide a serene oceanfront sanctuary.
VIVID Sydney Moonlight Sea Kayaking Experience
Elevate your VIVID Sydney experience with a 90-minute sea kayaking tour by Sydney Harbour Kayaks. Starting and ending at the Australian National Maritime Museum, this guided kayaking expedition offers unmatched views of Sydney’s dazzling light display from the water, away from the crowds.
Ritz-Carlton Reserve Debuts First Middle East Property
Nujuma, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, has opened on Ummahat Island in the Red Sea. Inspired by the Arabic word for stars, this exclusive island retreat invites guests to explore the uncharted beauty and culture of one of the world’s most secluded archipelagos.
ATONA: A New Luxury Hot Spring Ryokan Brand
Hyatt and Kiraku, Inc. have announced the opening of ATONA, a modern hot spring ryokan brand, with properties planned in Yufu, Yakushima, and Hakone by 2026. This brand aims to marry traditional ryokan elements with modern luxury in Japan’s top hot spring destinations.
Qatar Airways Named ‘Airline of the Year’
For 2024, Qatar Airways has been named ‘Airline of the Year’ by Airline Ratings. Along with this accolade, it also won ‘Best Business Class’ for the fifth consecutive year and ‘Best Catering.’
Sanlorenzo Launches First Superyacht with Green Methanol Fuel Cell System
Sanlorenzo has launched the 50Steel, the world’s first superyacht with a Green Methanol Reformer Fuel Cell system, capable of powering onboard systems with zero emissions. This collaboration with Siemens Energy marks a pioneering step towards maritime sustainability.
Celebrity Cruises Elevates ‘The Retreat’ Experience
Celebrity Cruises® has expanded its premium offerings for The Retreat, enhancing the suite life with more perks and amenities. This elevated experience provides unmatched luxury at sea.
Colombia: The Best Country for Birdwatching
Colombia, the world’s second most biodiverse country, boasts 1,966 bird species. A recent event organized by Cornell University’s Ornithology Lab highlighted its status as the top destination for bird diversity.
Silversea Launches New World Cruise
Silversea has announced its most extensive World Cruise for 2027, titled The Three Oceans. The 149-day voyage aboard Silver Dawn will visit 80 destinations across 35 countries, including 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, starting from Los Angeles and ending in Copenhagen.
Conrad Hotels & Resorts Opens in Bahrain
Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour has opened in Manama, marking the debut of Hilton’s luxury brand in Bahrain. The hotel is centrally located, near major attractions and business hubs.
First Banyan Tree Resort and Residences Announced for the Caribbean
Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences is set to open in Bimini, Bahamas, by early 2025. This exclusive development aims to redefine luxury living in the Caribbean.
British Airways Launches Winter Flights to Tromsø, Norway
Starting December 1, 2024, British Airways will fly to Tromsø, Norway, a prime location for viewing the aurora borealis and engaging in winter sports.
Mandarin Oriental to Open Urban Oasis in Rome
Mandarin Oriental is set to open a new luxury property in Rome by 2026. Located in ten 19th-century villas with lush gardens, this hotel will offer a unique, tranquil experience near the city’s historical sites.
The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai
Marriott Bonvoy’s Tribute Portfolio has launched its first Middle Eastern hotel, The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle in Dubai. This property combines urban energy with the serenity of a beach retreat.
Michelin Guide Lands in Los Cabos, Mexico
The Michelin Guide has recognized Los Cabos with a Michelin star and two Green Stars for sustainable dining, marking its entry into Mexico’s culinary scene.
Atzaró Cape Town Launches as a Small Luxury Hotel
Opening in June 2024, Atzaró Cape Town offers luxury accommodations at the foot of Table Mountain, blending nature with the vibrant culture of the city.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Madison Downtown Set to Open
Embassy Suites by Hilton Madison Downtown will open in June 2024, offering spacious suites, flexible meeting space, and amenities near key landmarks in Madison, Wisconsin.
Hotels Across Germany Filling Up for UEFA Euro 2024
The UEFA European Football Championship will influence hotel bookings across Germany, with many hotels already seeing increased reservations around match dates.
Drones to Remove Garbage from Mount Everest
The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality will trial drones to bring down garbage from Mount Everest, including waste material left by climbers. This initiative aims to address the environmental impact of mountaineering in the region.