Travel news: this month (May 2021) in luxury travel

Friday newsletters always feature travel contests, tips, series, or news.

Today: May 2021 luxury travel news.

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:

Four Seasons will fly its private jet to Antarctica
Four Seasons announces a resort in Puglia, Italy
The St Regis Dubai, The Palm is now open
The St Regis brand debuts in Bermuda
Air Senegal will launch flights from Dakar to the USA
Amsterdam’s Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky will become an Anantara
LATAM commits to be carbon neutral by 2050
Mandarin Oriental enhances its loyalty program
Rosewood will open a hotel in Mexico City
Hyatt will open an Alila hotel in Shanghai

1. Four Seasons will fly its private jet to Antarctica

Four Seasons unveiled an all-new private jet itinerary for 2022, exploring the wonders of Antarctica, the majesty of Machu Picchu, the booming arts scene of Bogota, and the vibrant flavors of Buenos Aires, alongside the return of the beloved World of Adventures journey. “Now, more than ever, guests are planning bucket-list trips to far corners of the world to make up for lost time. To meet this demand, we’ve introduced two additional opportunities to explore new and remote destinations with legendary Four Seasons service in the sky,” says Christian Clerc, President, Global Operations for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. For the first time ever, the Four Seasons Private Jet will deliver guests to the Earth’s southernmost continent, Antarctica. Guests will fly over the infamous Drake Passage by charter plane, landing at King George Island before boarding a luxurious polar ship for four nights as they embark on an unforgettable expedition to the seventh continent. While enjoying seamless Four Seasons service in one of the most remote locations on Earth, daily excursions will allow guests to observe incredible wildlife and enjoy scenery of iceberg-dotted bays and brilliant blue glaciers.

2. Four Seasons announces a resort in Puglia, Italy

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced plans for a brand-new resort in Puglia, the stunning coastal region of southern Italy. Puglia makes up the heel of Italy’s “boot” and is home to ancient towns with rich histories, national parks, soaring mountains, exceptional food and wine, pristine beaches and a Mediterranean climate. Located on a pristine beachfront property, the upcoming Four Seasons property in Puglia will be comprised of 150 rooms and suites. The exclusive seaside location will offer guests views of the Adriatic Sea and direct beach access, along with easy accessibility to the nearby historic town of Ostuni and countless other attractions in the region. Onsite facilities will include six restaurant and bar offerings, including an all-day restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a seasonal pool bar and grill, a lobby lounge bar, a signature bar and a beach club. A state-of-the-art destination spa will include a fitness center, 10 treatment rooms, hammam, sauna, pool and yoga studio.

3. The St Regis Dubai, The Palm is now open

The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm occupies the first 18 floors of The Palm Tower, a stunning new 52-story landmark development connected to the Nakheel Mall which offers world class shopping, a variety of culinary venues and entertainment options. Designed to feature the brand’s sophisticated aesthetic, the hotel balances local influences with the modern glamor of the St. Regis brand. The 264 lavishly appointed guestrooms and 26 elegant suites offer luxuriant comfort and expansive views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. A luxurious oasis, the hotel’s spa offers transformative and bespoke signature treatments including the Signature Gold Journey, which uses 24k gold to nourish and strengthen the skin. Other facilities include a diverse selection of restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as two pools, one for families and one for adults. The hotel is also steps away from soft sandy beaches and the soon-to-open St. Regis Beach Club.

4. The St Regis brand debuts in Bermuda

Situated in the historic Town of St. George’s, an UNESCO World Heritage site, and nestled among the soft sands and turquoise water of St. Catherine’s Beach, the St Regis Bermuda is the first Marriott International luxury brand property to debut on the island. The resort features 120 elegant guestrooms, including 21suites and an ultra-luxury residential development offering two and three-bedroom residences. Each guestroom features a private balcony and is designed to immediately draw the eye to expansive ocean views and stunning vistas of Bermuda’s celebrated Fort St. Catherine. Overlooking azure waters, the resort features both an adult and a family pool where guests can lounge luxuriantly or enjoy a private cabana for an exclusive retreat. Indulgence and relaxation awaits at the St. Regis Spa, which offers personalized treatments using natural elements and products by Sothys.

5. Air Senegal will launch flights from Dakar to the USA

According to Business Traveller, Air Senegal has announced plans to launch twice weekly flights on September 2, with a nonstop service from Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International airport to New York JFK, from where the flight will connect onto Washington Dulles. Air Senegal will be the only African carrier to offer direct flights between Senegal and the US – Delta flies between New York JFK and Dakar. Flights will be operated by an Airbus A330 neo, configured with 32 seats in Business Class, 21 in Premium Economy and 237 in Economy. Commenting on the news Ibrahima Kane, managing director of Air Senegal, said: “With this flight, Air Senegal will make the USA even more accessible, and therefore better connectivity will strengthen the solid economic and socio-cultural ties between the USA and Senegal”. In February 2020 Air Senegal announced a new route between Dakar and London Stansted. The service had been due to start in June 2020, but was postponed due to Covid-19, and has yet to launch.

6. Amsterdam’s Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky will become an Anantara

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam will join the brand’s luxury portfolio in Autumn 2021. Located in Dam Square in the very heart of Amsterdam, the existing famous property is currently operating as NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, an icon in the city with over 155 years of history. The museum and shopping districts are on the doorstep, making it the perfect base for exploring the heritage and cultural treasures of this fascinating capital. In advance of the Autumn rebrand, the hotel will receive a soft refurbishment, including some of the guest rooms and suites, the garden, and a new spa and gym will be added. The 402-key Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky will embrace guests in contemporary style with Anantara’s signature touches. The building has a magnificent history dating back to 1866, when Mr. Adolph Wilhelm Krasnapolsky, a charismatic Polish tailor, opened a tiny coffee house on the site that is now Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. As it grew in popularity, he added rooms for rent and later rebuilt it into a modern hotel that charms visitors with luxurious guest rooms and an indulgent distinct culinary proposition.

7. LATAM commits to be carbon neutral by 2050

Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, zero waste to landfill by 2027 and protecting iconic ecosystems in South America, are some of the commitments that are part of LATAM, Latin America’s largest airline. The company announced that it will work to reduce its emissions through the incorporation of sustainable fuels and new aviation technologies that are expected to be available beginning 2035. “The environment cannot wait 15 years to have the necessary technologies to reduce emissions. This is why we will work in parallel to promote these transformations and offset our emissions through nature-based solutions,” said Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group. Through the development of a portfolio of conservation projects, LATAM will contribute to offset 50% of its domestic emissions by 2030, establishing a path to be carbon neutral by 2050. It will intervene in iconic ecosystems of South America, such as the Amazon, the Chaco, the Llanos of Orinoco, the Atlantic forest and El Cerrado, among others. Additionally, LATAM Group will promote a program that will allow passengers, corporate and cargo customers the option of offsetting the CO2 emissions associated with their trips.

8. Mandarin Oriental enhances its loyalty program

Mandarin Oriental has announced a further enhancement to Fans of M.O., the hotel group’s global guest recognition program, to include members only dining benefits. Offered exclusively to Fans of M.O. members, these new dining benefits are available at Mandarin Oriental restaurants around the world and extended to all members, whether a hotel guest or dining locally. These augment an existing range of complimentary on-property privileges, experiences and partner benefits from luxury brands such as La Perla, FarFetch, Net Jets, Diptyque and Jimmy Choo. Dining privileges for Fans of M.O. include:

Chef’s treats: a taste of something special upon arrival at the restaurant
Exclusive access: opportunities and events exclusively reserved for members
Special offers: unique experiences and exclusive offers
Birthday surprises: a celebration made more memorable for members
Hotel benefits – additional privileges for guests with every stay
Complimentary WiFi – allowing members to stay connected

“This new enhancement highlights our commitment to providing tangible value for our members,” said Kristin Ruble, Group Vice President of Brand and Experience Marketing for Mandarin Oriental. “We developed Fans of M.O. with the vision of creating a community and are committed to ensuring a range of rich benefits and engaging experiences our members can enjoy both during and beyond a hotel stay. The addition of members only dining benefits further solidifies this vision” she added.

9. Rosewood will open a hotel in Mexico City

Designed by Mexico City-based architecture firm Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos, Rosewood Mexico City will occupy the grand tower of Antara’s new build expansion. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Antara is a famous mixed-use development which also comprises modern offices, luxury retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The luxurious enclave will encompass 133 accommodations, 35 of which will be suites, and four food and beverage outlets including an all-day bistro, a poolside bar and grill, a living room and a specialty dining venue. Intended for hotel guests and the local community alike, the hotel will also feature an outpost of Asaya, Rosewood’s forward-thinking wellness concept, which will comprise two swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness and wellbeing center, eight treatment rooms and changing rooms and hydrotherapy areas. Dedicated meeting and event spaces will cater to groups both large and intimate throughout the property.

10. Hyatt will open an Alila hotel in Shanghai

Alila Shanghai is expected to debut in 2023 and will be the first Alila branded urban hotel in China, offering a relaxing and nature-infused luxury retreat in the heart of the bustling metropolis. Designed as an “urban utopia,” Alila Shanghai will offer guests an elevated retreat experience that balances the bustling spirit of Shanghai with the serenity of the Alila brand. Featuring natural materials, earth tones and charming city views, the hotel’s spacious studios and suites will evoke calm and relaxation. In contrast, a landscaped garden in the fourth-floor lobby inspired by Shanghai’s classical gardens, and facilities that embrace nature but live in harmony amid contemporary style, will provide surprise and stimulation for the senses. The hotel feature’s facilities will include a rooftop Chinese restaurant, an organic restaurant, Tea Bar and a rooftop bar that overlooking the Old Shanghai Zhang Garden. Other hotel facilities will include a spa, an indoor pool, gym, meeting space and a private garden which will be well suited for events and functions.