{"id":312588,"date":"2024-10-25T14:04:52","date_gmt":"2024-10-25T13:04:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/turkeyalwan.net\/?p=312588"},"modified":"2024-10-25T14:06:37","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T13:06:37","slug":"travel-news-october-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/turkeyalwan.net\/2024\/10\/25\/travel-news-october-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Travel news: this month (October 2024) in luxury travel"},"content":{"rendered":"

Friday\u00a0newsletters<\/a>\u00a0always feature travel\u00a0contests<\/a>,\u00a0tips<\/a>, or\u00a0news<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Today: October 2024<\/strong>\u00a0luxury travel news<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what\u2019s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Four Seasons announces plans for a luxury resort in Mykonos, Greece<\/a><\/li>\n
  2. &Beyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar reopens with fresh new look<\/a><\/li>\n
  3. Six Senses will open two new luxury hotels in Italy (Lake Como and Milan)<\/a><\/li>\n
  4. Park Hyatt debuts in London, United Kingdom<\/a><\/li>\n
  5. Waldorf Astoria will open a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi<\/a><\/li>\n
  6. Cathay Pacific unveils Aria Suite and retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER<\/a><\/li>\n
  7. Delta will update its entire fleet with a new cabin interior design<\/a><\/li>\n
  8. United unveils \u201clargest international expansion\u201d in its history<\/a><\/li>\n
  9. Marriott announces the return of The Ritz-Carlton brand to Cancun, Mexico<\/a><\/li>\n
  10. \u00a0Four Seasons Hotel Rabat, Morocco is now open<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
    <\/div>\n

    <\/p>\n

    \n
    1. Four Seasons announces plans for luxury resort in Mykonos, Greece<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    Located along the coastline of Kalo Livadi Bay,\u00a0Four Seasons Resort Mykonos, Greece<\/a> is slated to welcome its first guests in the summer of 2025. The resort will offer 94 spacious rooms, villas and suites with exquisite views of the Aegean Sea. To honor the culture and heritage of the destination, the Four Seasons Resort is designed and developed in the Cycladic style that is synonymous with Mykonos, featuring white cubic architecture with whitewashed courtyards, traditional pathways and picturesque piazzas – signature trademarks of the local architecture.\u00a0The project is designed by the renowned Greek architect Nicos Valsamakis, inspired by the timeless elegance and sophistication of Mykonos, with interior design led by Wimberly Interiors. The resort will also offer an exciting variety of restaurant and bar options designed by Rockwell Group, such as an al fresco pool-side Italian venue, a modern interpretation of a Mykonian kafeneio, and a beach experience harmoniously integrated with its environment and celebrating its natural beauty.<\/i>\u00a0Additional Resort features will include a relaxed infinity swimming pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, a spa with several treatment rooms and fitness facilities as well as several indoor and outdoor venues for meetings, events and celebrations alike. For those looking for added activity, the property will offer boating adventures, water sports and additional recreational activities.<\/p>\n

    \"FOUR<\/a>
    FOUR SEASONS RESORT MYKONOS, GREECE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
    \n
    2. Beyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar reopens with fresh new look<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    &Beyond Mnemba Island<\/a>, an island paradise situated off the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar, has recently reopened following a comprehensive refurbishment. Renowned for its natural sense of exclusivity, Mnemba\u2019s trademark brand of barefoot luxury has been fully reimagined, retaining its intimate and relaxed island charm but giving it a refreshed look. Undertaken by long-time &Beyond collaborators Fox Browne Creative and Nicholas Plewman Architects, the refurbishment preserves the understated sophistication of the previous offering. The overall layout of the lodge remains largely unchanged, with all bandas along the beachfront and the shared guest area in the middle. The bandas have all been completely rebuilt and enlarged, with all interiors replaced. Drawing inspiration from nature, the design of the bandas reflects the form of the nautilus shell, while the interiors maintain the lodge\u2019s current natural colour palette, punctuated by vibrant coral accents.\u00a0 The lodge\u2019s main guest area has also been completely rebuilt and brought forward in order to maximize the sea views. The refreshed layout includes both new areas to socialize and secluded corners for those who value their privacy.\u00a0 Further new additions include a freshly built Beach Shop, as well as the Discovery Centre, a dedicated space providing guests with the opportunity to explore the conservation and community initiatives of the lodge.<\/p>\n

    \"&Beyond<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    3. Six Senses will open two new luxury hotels in Italy at Lake Como and Milan<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    Six Senses<\/a> has signed hotel management agreements with Gruppo Statuto as part of an exciting new chapter in its Italian story. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como will follow the debut opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 in the restored Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini and the announcement of the upcoming Six Senses Antognolla in Umbria. Six Senses Milan will enjoy a prime address at Via Brera 19 in the heart of the artistic Brera quarter, emblematic of authentic Milanese heritage and culture. Six Senses Lake Como will continue the legacy of the first hospitality destination opened on the shores of Lake Como in 1820 in Cadenabbia di Griante, an area rich in history, art, and nature, which over the years has drawn illustrious emperors, monarchs, writers and celebrities to its sparkling shores. Neil Jacobs, CEO, Six Senses, shared, \u201cItaly moves you like nowhere else. In few places do art, architecture, gastronomy, and the joy of living intertwine so effortlessly. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como both speak to a purpose. The first is intentionally sized and designed for attentive hospitality and holistic wellness within one of Europe\u2019s most dynamic fashion capitals. The second is a serene escape within the most beautiful lakeside gardens just 90 minutes away.\u201d Six Senses Milan is set to open in 2025 and Six Senses Lake Como in 2028.<\/p>\n

    \"Six<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    4. Park Hyatt debuts in London, United Kingdom<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    Located in an exclusive riverside location in the fast-transforming South West London district of Nine Elms, the new Park Hyatt London River Thames<\/a> boasts unparalleled views of London\u2019s skyline, combining residential charm with sophistication in complete harmony. The hotel interiors offer a contemporary interpretation of classic English style; its timeless furniture and bespoke artisanal details echoing elegance and comfort. The neutral and muted design is complemented with color accents and powerful artwork including an immersive \u201cpark by water\u201d experience. Throughout the property, guests can enjoy art from several well-known artists, including Ian Rayer-Smith, Jo Taylor, Fran\u00e7oise Delaire, Gabriel Leung, George Blacklock, and Ewan David. The hotel\u2019s 203 guestrooms offer a seamless continuation of this journey, with wallpapered walls featuring designs by the iconic English textile designer William Morris, complemented by a scheme of white and ebony, with accents of leather and brass throughout. The bars and restaurants at Park Hyatt London River Thames embody the diversity of its surroundings, offering guests an assorted culinary journey through what promises to be one of London\u2019s finest dining experiences. For guests seeking ultimate relaxation, the hotel offers an entire floor dedicated to wellness, featuring a spa with panoramic river views, flooded with natural light, and an expansive layout that sets it apart in London. Guests can also enjoy state-of-the-art fitness center, a serene indoor pool, six luxurious treatment rooms, and a tranquil relaxation lounge \u2013 making it the perfect sanctuary to unwind against the busy backdrop of the city.<\/p>\n

    \"Park<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    5. Waldorf Astoria will open a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    Waldorf Astoria Abu Dhabi<\/a> will feature 167 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, many with views of the mangroves, continuing the brand\u2019s globally renowned unparalleled hospitality. In addition, each guest will be assigned a Personal Concierge who will meticulously attend to every detail of their stay from pre-arrival to post-departure. The hotel will also feature a thoughtfully curated range of food and beverage options including a brasserie, a rooftop specialty restaurant, a pool lounge, and the celebrated Peacock Alley \u2013 building on Waldorf Astoria\u2019s legacy of culinary excellence. An exquisite retreat in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the hotel will offer elevated amenities, including three swimming pools (adult, family, and kids), a fitness club and spa. In addition, the property\u2019s two ballrooms and five meeting rooms will be carefully designed to reflect a grand yet intimate sense of place, creating an elegant atmosphere where guests can enjoy memorable meetings and events. Just a short walk away from the hotel, the Mangrove National Park is a vast forest which is home to over 60 bird species and wildlife such as turtles, dugongs, and dolphins, making it a delight for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Visitors can also experience the wonders of the forest by kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or boating through the park\u2019s main water channel \u2013 a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Once open, the property will be in close proximity to cultural attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Qasr Al Watan presidential palace, as well as to the Abu Dhabi corniche, downtown Abu Dhabi and Zayed International Airport.<\/p>\n

    \"WALDORF<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    6. Cathay Pacific unveils Aria Suite and retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    Cathay Pacific<\/a> raised the bar for its customer experience with the official unveiling of its all-new Business class, Aria Suite, together with its new Premium Economy and refreshed Economy onboard its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. \u200b \u200bThe airline\u2019s retrofitted 777-300ER debuted on its Hong Kong-Beijing route on 18 October, before progressively being deployed on other regional and long-haul routes. The new cabin experience was introduced at a special ceremony for distinguished guests, valued customers and Cathay members, members of the media and Cathay employees at Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited\u2019s hangar facility at Hong Kong International Airport on 16 October. Cathay Group Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: \u201cWe are excited to introduce new seat products over the next three years, each designed to elevate the inflight experience for our customers. First, we are launching our all-new Business and Premium Economy cabins, and a refreshed Economy cabin on our retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER. These will be followed by a new world-leading First class experience onboard our 777-9s, and a brand-new flat-bed Business class product on our Airbus A330s. Through our investments in cutting-edge aircraft, innovative technology and groundbreaking facilities, we are dedicated to moving beyond expectations \u2013 in the air, on the ground and in every experience we create.\u201d In the highly anticipated Aria Suite, Cathay Pacific has placed customer experience at the heart of the design and conception of its new Business class. Artistry and craftsmanship have gone into every detail to create a holistic and immersive experience where comfort, privacy and a sense of personal space are completely reimagined for customers. The result is an inflight journey that aims to be intuitive and effortless.<\/p>\n

    \"cathay<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    7. Delta will update its entire fleet with a new cabin interior design<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    A new cabin interior is on the horizon at Delta<\/a>. Debuting this fall ahead of Delta\u2019s centennial anniversary, the modern new design will bring substantial improvements to the airline\u2019s aircraft interiors. From fresh seating materials, enhanced lighting and a renewed color palette, to new decorative motifs and signature branding, every aspect of the cabin interior has been carefully planned and thoughtfully redesigned to elevate the travel experience. \u201cDelta has a 100-year history of creating a customer experience that feels welcoming and thoughtful with intentional design elements woven into every aspect of a customer\u2019s travel,\u201d said Mauricio Parise, Vice President \u2013 Customer Experience Design. \u201cAs we embark on our next century of flying, this refreshed cabin interior infuses utility with beauty to create an atmosphere that feels fresh, elevated, and timeless while reflecting our customers\u2019 evolving tastes and expectations.\u201d\u00a0The new cabin design features an interior uniquely and intentionally designed to make Delta customers feel at home during their travels. Breathable materials, comfortable memory-foam cushions on widebody jets, and lighting that promotes relaxation will span the fleet.\u00a0 This nose-to-tail transformation of Delta’s cabin interior is based on extensive feedback and research to create a cabin experience that reflects its passengers’ changing expectations and lifestyles. Delta\u2019s new cabin design will first debut on a narrowbody Boeing 757 aircraft that will begin flying on domestic and short haul international routes later this fall. In early 2025, a widebody Airbus A350 will debut with the new design on long haul international routes. Additional aircraft will receive the new cabin design as Delta\u2019s schedule and operation allows over the next few years.<\/p>\n

    \"delta<\/a><\/p>\n

    \n
    8. United unveils \u201clargest international expansion\u201d in its history<\/strong><\/h5>\n

    United Airlines<\/a> announced the largest international expansion in its history with service to eight new cities. Starting in\u00a0May 2025<\/span>, United will launch five new nonstop flights from its hub in Newark<\/span>\u00a0to destinations no other U.S. airline serves including Nuuk,\u00a0Greenland<\/span>;\u00a0Palermo<\/span>,\u00a0Italy<\/span>;\u00a0Bilbao, Spain<\/span>; Madeira Island,\u00a0Portugal<\/span>\u00a0and Faro,\u00a0Portugal<\/span>. The airline is also adding three new nonstop routes from\u00a0Washington D.C.<\/span>\/Dulles, including its first-ever flight to\u00a0Dakar, Senegal<\/span>\u00a0operating year-round and new seasonal nonstop flights to\u00a0Nice, France<\/span>\u00a0and\u00a0Venice, Italy<\/span>. Already the U.S. carrier with the most flights across the Atlantic, United’s summer 2025 transatlantic schedule will be the largest in its history with more than 760 weekly flights. In addition to new flights, customers will have even more time to explore\u00a0Venice, Italy<\/span>;\u00a0Athens, Greece<\/span>; and\u00a0Barcelona, Spain<\/span>\u00a0with earlier start dates next summer. The airline will also increase the number of weekly direct flights between Newark\/New York-Palma de Mallorca,\u00a0Spain<\/span>, Newark\/New York-Dubrovnik,\u00a0Croatia<\/span>, and\u00a0Newark\/New York<\/span>–Athens, Greece<\/span>. United is also adding new direct flights from\u00a0Tokyo<\/span>–Narita<\/span>\u00a0to Ulaanbaatar,\u00a0Mongolia<\/span>\u00a0and Kaohsiung \u2013 destinations no other U.S. airline serves \u2013 and a new nonstop flight to\u00a0Koror, Palau<\/span>. These new flights will seamlessly connect in\u00a0Tokyo<\/span>\u00a0to United’s transpacific services to five hub locations in the continental\u00a0United States<\/span>. “No other airline gives customers nonstop access to as many unique international destinations and experiences from the U.S. as United,” said Patrick Quayle<\/span>, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. “Our network provides the most choice and variety for our customers, whether they are looking for a relaxing seaside getaway, once-in-a-lifetime adventure travel or to explore some of the most vibrant urban escapes across the globe.”<\/p>\n