More stories

  • in

    St. Maarten’s Newest Luxury Resort and Residences, Vie L’Ven, Launches Sales

    Altree Developments, a Toronto-based, multi-generational, full-service development company is set to redefine luxury living in St. Maarten and today announces they have launched sales at their newest development, Vie L’Ven (life to life), a luxury resort and residences with 280 units, that is slated for completion in 2028.“Vie L’Ven seamlessly coalesces the influences of both French and Dutch cultures which are truly represented in this incomparable development through exceptional living, dining and wellness experiences,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder of Altree. “Serving as a love letter to St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven encourages homeowners and guests to embrace living life to the fullest, while soaking in the island’s natural beauty and tranquility, where European culture blends effortlessly with Caribbean aptitude.”
    Set in a pristine location on Indigo Bay, on the southwest Dutch side of the island, Vie L’Ven will feature a collection of fully furnished residences, alongside a luxury five-star hotel. Of the 280 units, 190 units will be hotel rooms (60 of which will be suites) and 90 private residences.
    The ResidencesThoughtfully designed by award-winning architectural firm HKS Architects, with interiors by Toronto’s internationally renowned, award-winning Studio Munge, the development is authentically inspired by both French and Dutch cultures.
    The residences, with sales and marketing being led by St. Maarten’s Sotheby’s International Realty, will range from one-, one-and-a-den, and two-and-a-den-bedroom suites that will span from 600 to 6,000 square feet and will be available for purchase in a variety of layouts. Pricing ranges from $800,000 to over $2 million. Serving as a retreat and sanctuary of privacy, the luxurious suites will boast playful patterns and woven textures, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Upon entrance, guests and homeowners will be met by a predominantly cream-white palette, accented with energetic corals or oceanic blues to reflect the island. Taking it a step further, Vie L’Ven will offer homeowners the option to upgrade with custom furniture packages, inclusive of full bedroom sets, living and dining room additions, and more.
    Vibrant Resort + AmenitiesThe resort will embrace the island’s energy and diversity and create an exclusive destination for islanders and guests by providing a one-of-a-kind, world-class experience. Upon arrival, Vie L’Ven offers awe-inspiring first impressions with striking sculptural artwork, and dispersed throughout the resort, guests can take in the visuals from the dynamic art program unfolding against a dark wood-paneled backdrop featuring intricate carved geometrical patterns. Textures and patterns such as coral stone floors, natural oak and more are implemented in the design and architecture to infuse authenticity and tactility to the resort. Amenities will include three swimming pools, 24/7 concierge services, a kid’s center, event spaces, a superb fitness center and world-class spa with an outdoor experiential bathing garden and treatment spaces. Upon request, wellness memberships and wellness suites will be made available which will include tailored programming, wellness centric elevated fixtures and more. Lastly, the resort will be home to three restaurants, including a signature restaurant, by a Michelin-starred artisan Chef who will share his incomparable cuisine with the island.ADVERTISEMENTCaptivating IslandKnown as the home of the friendly people, St. Maarten is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world and has established itself as the “European melting pot” of the Caribbean with its multicultural identity and range of influences. Easily accessible by air and sea, St. Maarten is on its way to becoming a “stop-and-stay” destination, bursting with languages, cuisines, and traditions from around the world. Although petite in size, the island offers an experience for everyone, whether it be exhilarating nightlife, breathtaking views, prestigious sailing, and more, creating the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Upon completion, Vie L’Ven will be one of two five-star resorts on the island, and will provide residence owners and visitors a new standard of unmatched luxury.

    Older
    The 12 Best Places to Find Tigers in India

    Newer
    Head to the Beach for the Ocean Shores, Washington, Razor Clam & Seafood Festival More

  • in

    Cool Times Await in Andermatt as Cotton Club Arrives

    Mountain lovers can experience the new must-visit winter destination as COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT throws open its doors offering guests luxurious comfort, winter sun, and an immersive experience in the clear, bright, Alpine glow – Switzerland’s coolest new location.The brainchild of Norwegian entrepreneurs Christian and Merete Marstrander, COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT brings the COTTON LIFESTYLE to life. Known for their passion for both snow and sand, the Marstranders have created a forward-thinking vision of hospitality that has now arrived in Andermatt. With world-class service, meticulous attention to detail, and a dedication to ensuring each guest feels the special effect of the Cotton Club lifestyle, they have transformed Andermatt into a winter destination like no other.
    At the heart of the COTTON CLUB credo lies personal conviction and drive. While James Bond may have been the first global superstar to visit Andermatt, with the famous chase on the Furka Pass filmed there in ‘Goldfinger’ in 1964, all visitors can now experience the remarkable beauty of this super-luxe winter destination in the Ursen valley at the foot of the Gotthard Pass.

    Andermatt is an exclusive resort that boasts the largest snow cover in all of Switzerland. Situated at the centre of the Saint-Gotthard Massif, it offers a haven for advanced skiers, families, and free-riders alike. With its convenient proximity to Lugano, Lucerne, Bern, and Zürich, Andermatt sits at an elevation of 1,437 meters above sea level. The Gemsstock ski area and a chairlift that connects the village with Nätschen’s gentler slopes are easily accessible, making it a perfect destination for both day and night activities.
    ADVERTISEMENTThe COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT venue offers a rare and enchanting bonus: a stunning dome made from Polycarbonate Transparent Glass with a 360-degree view of the natural mountainscape, a trademark of the Cotton Lifestyle. The marriage of mountain scenery with a Mediterranean mindset has resulted in a fairy-tale environment of natural hues, materials, and designs inspired by local traditions. This soothing ambience, with blissful creamy colours, pale wood, clean lines, and striking interior accents of fire and chandeliers, wraps guests in a luxurious level of comfort and cosiness. It provides the perfect retreat after a day on the slopes and induces an intense feeling of well-being.

    Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including picturesque valleys and pristine lakes, COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT welcomes up to 200 guests for drinks and dining. The menu options are fabulous, with a Raw Bar offering caviar, ceviche choices, and fish tartare dishes. The Sushi menu delivers a vast range of specialities and premium rolls, while salads and starters include Iberian Bellota ham and Greek Salad. For the main course, guests can indulge in a Thai curry or choose from veal, chicken, or lamb dishes. And of course, there’s a delectable selection of desserts, including Tiramisu, chocolate, and lemon sorbet.

    Before dinner, guests can enjoy a glass or two of champagne or choose from the extensive COTTON Signatures cocktail list. From the Algarve Club to the Gingerbread Martini, Nut Spritz, and Chocolate Banana Boulevardier, there’s something to tempt every palate. The expansive wine list prominently features European wines, and for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there are all-natural juices, special mocktails, and a range of spirits, soft drinks, and refreshments.

    COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT brings a new level of luxury to the hidden gem of Andermatt, which is already ranked among the top 10 off-piste ski areas in the world. With its outstanding hospitality, uncompromising focus on great personal service, outstanding food, and authentic attitude, Andermatt is now home to the largest ski resort in central Switzerland, boasting a total of 180 km of pistes and 30 lifts. And with the addition of COTTON CLUB ANDERMATT in 2024, the resort’s attractions have reached new heights.

    Older
    MURU Opens at the Prestigious Waldorf Astoria West Bay Doha

    Newer
    European Commission Conditionally Clears Korean Air’s Merger with Asiana Airlines More

  • in

    ‘A Clear Runway of Opportunity’: Inside Sandals’ 2024 Global Sales Conference

    As the calendar flips to a new year, Unique Vacations, Inc. (UVI) – an affiliate of the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts – inaugurates 2024 as “The Year of More” at an energizing Global Sales Conference designed to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the travel advisor community and reinforce its crucial role within the ecosystem of tourism for the Caribbean at large.The first of its kind since 2019, the event was held between Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Ochi, and united esteemed Caribbean government officials, Sandals Resorts executives, and over 200 members of Unique Vacations global sales force for a weekend of reflection, strategic alignment, and gathering momentum in the direction of selling the coveted Caribbean.
    Following an evening of welcome cocktails and dinner at Sandals Dunn’s River, a future-focused business session unfolded at Sandals Ochi on January 5th with a series of inspiring speeches from notable figures, including The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, and The Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and The Grenadines. They were joined by UVI and Sandals Resorts International (SRI) executive leadership, including SRI Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, who addressed a captivated audience, reflecting on the brands’ foundation and its continued commitment to supporting travel advisors while sharing insights and strategic directions for the future.
    “We sit here today on 42 years of legacy – 42 years of a clear runway of opportunity to be the company that is the game changer to rewrite the future history books of what Caribbean tourism is going to look like, and that is what Sandals 2.0 reflects and represents,” said Stewart. “We are committed every day to you and your craft – to doing things that are monumentally bigger than Sandals. This is an ecosystem of Caribbean tourism that only triumphs if we function together as one.”
    Tourism Ministers Join Forces to Promote the Caribbean
    In his address to the sales force, The Hon. Edmund Bartlett expressed his appreciation for a year of record-breaking travel in Jamaica – four million visitor arrivals in a single year (2023) and 10 consecutive quarters of economic growth, reducing the island’s debt to GDP from 149% to 74% – manifesting “more visitors, more revenue and more love in 2024.”ADVERTISEMENT“What you are doing for Jamaica means additional exposure and opportunities for our destination, which translates in effect to more arrivals and more earnings. It means more business, more jobs, and more growth,” said The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, adding that innovation and collaboration will be the driving force of ongoing success in 2024 and beyond. “Our way forward in the tourism industry is to remove this sense of competition that has characterized our process over time, and replace it with a nice new word called co-petition. We must now represent a future of co-peting with each rather than competing with each other.”
    In true Caribbean comradeship, The Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, traveled to Ocho Rios to attend the conference, where much of the buzz and focus was on Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, opening on March 27th. Bringing forward the unique ‘soul’ of his island home and its authentic alignment with Sandals, The Hon. Carlos James reiterated a joint commitment to build out a tourism sector that is ‘unique and amazing’ – teasing new direct airlift coming soon – and that leverages space and opportunities for people to discover an authentic Caribbean island that is not commercialized, while finding avenues to support and empower local communities.
    “The thought process, engineering ingenuity, care, love, finesse, and attention to detail that went into creating [Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines] is something we all will enjoy,“ said The Hon. Carlos James. “Sandals is a perfect match for our island – maintaining the authentic richness of the Caribbean vibe, food, entertainment, and cultural heritage. We’re preserving all of that and sharing it with guests.”
    More in 2024 – and Beyond
    Looking ahead and building off the theme of ‘more in 2024’, Stewart highlighted upcoming innovations across the Sandals and Beaches brands, honing in on the design, service, and accommodation innovations across the portfolio, including Sandals Royal Curaçao – home to 10 new Rondoval villas debuting February 1 – and the upcoming Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, promising an experience immersed in mother nature, “raw and uncut,” with more features, amenities, and Sandals Firsts than anywhere else.
    “Everything that we are doing as hoteliers is in the relentless pursuit of finding the best of the best in this part of the world,” said Stewart. “No place on God’s planet is more interesting, more enticing, more relaxing, more soulful, or more charming than this archipelago. It is our job, together, to connect the dots to get the travelers of the world to choose us – to choose the Caribbean.”
    A Priceless Partnership
    Gary C. Sadler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Industry Relations at UVI, lauded travel advisors for their unwavering loyalty, recognizing the impact of the region’s most committed sales force.
    “The biggest part of what we have is our travel advisors, and the most profound thing that Unique Vacations can do on behalf of Sandals Resorts is work hand in hand with these trusted colleagues day after day – because whenever the going gets tough, it is always travel advisors who are there to rescue any hotel brand there is in the world.”
    In true Sandals fashion, a dazzling award-show gala brimming with local flair kicked off the night of January 6th, where awards were handed out to valuable sales team members from across global regions. Notable recognitions include Yasmine Davis, who was named BDM of the Year for the United States, and Gail Stephenson, UVI Director of Sales Operations, who was recognized as the Chairman’s Award Winner of 2023. A private event at the Rio Chico villa capped off the Global Sales Conference 2024 with the event coming to a close on Monday, January 8, 2024.

    Older
    Gulf Hotels Group Pioneers a New Dining Experience in Bahrain

    Newer
    Radisson Hotel Group sets new record in 2023, adding the largest number of keys to its portfolio More

  • in

    NEOM announces Aquellum, a futuristic lifestyle community

    The Board of Directors of NEOM has announced Aquellum, a luxury and experiential space embedded within the mountains, and the latest striking addition to the ongoing regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia. With its foundations steeped in cutting-edge technology, avant-garde architecture and forward-thinking concepts, Aquellum will offer guests a taste of futuristic living through its array of pioneering experiences.
    Concealed from the outside along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Aquellum is hidden within a breathtaking, 450-meter-high mountain range and represents a futuristic ecosystem that is harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings. Crafted to inspire originality and imagination, Aquellum will push the boundaries of conventional design and construction possibilities.
    To access Aquellum, visitors will embark on an extraordinary journey, beginning at the world’s first floating marina. Here, guests will board a specially designed vessel to enter Aquellum through a concealed underground canal, unveiling a hidden community that offers an incredible sensory journey.
    Once inside, visitors will be treated to an exhilarating, 100-meter-high vertical experience with an impressive courtyard space stretching from the water to the sky. This subterranean digitalized community creates vibrancy and interconnectivity through seamlessly blending hotel accommodation, apartments, retail spaces, leisure and entertainment zones and innovative hubs.
    A dynamic boulevard winds through the courtyard, connecting diverse social spaces, world-class hospitality, immersive arts, events, shopping and dining. A signature space, dubbed ‘The Generator’, houses unique research labs for disruptors, innovators, and creative thinkers, offering a platform where the future is reimagined.ADVERTISEMENTAn omnidirectional internal transit system facilitates easy access to upper floors, transporting residents and visitors to their homes and hotels, ascending to rooftop gardens with breathtaking coastal views.
    Guided by its unwavering commitment to crafting spaces in nature that epitomize the future of luxury, innovation and lifestyle, Aquellum stands as a testament to the fusion of cutting-edge design and construction techniques.
    Aligned with NEOM’s commitment to conservation and innovation, Aquellum complements its coastal location. This new development follows recent announcements of Leyja, Epicon, Siranna, Utamo, and Norlana, which are also sustainable tourism destinations located in the Gulf of Aqaba.

    Older
    THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION OPENS RESERVATIONS FOR THIRD SUPERYACHT LUMINARA

    Newer
    Introducing the Most Expensive Ice Cream Bars in the World at DOOZEE Bespoke Ice Cream Bar More

  • in

    MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL AND NEOM TO BRING APARTMENTS BY MARRIOTT BONVOY TO SINDALAH

    Marriott International has signed an agreement with NEOM to bring Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy to Sindalah, the luxury island destination in the Red Sea off Saudi Arabia’s northwest coast.Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will offer premium and luxury apartment-style accommodations to meet the increased demand from families and younger travelers, who now seek more space and homely amenities when staying away from home.
    “Marriott International has deep insights into the continuously evolving preferences of global travelers. It positions them as a perfect partner for us as we look to develop an array of accommodation options to meet the needs of Sindalah visitors. We are excited to strengthen our partnership by introducing their new brand to the region, which will elevate the guest experience for a growing number of groups traveling together,” said Chris Newman, Executive Director, NEOM Hotel Division.

    “We continue to strengthen our collaboration with NEOM with the signing of our first Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy in the Middle East,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International. “We continue to see a growing desire for premium and luxury apartment-style accommodation among travelers. Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will be a great fit for Sindalah which is anticipated to offer our guests and members exciting, year-long travel experiences on the island.”
    ADVERTISEMENTDesigned to cater to travelers seeking more residential amenities, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy Sindalah will feature units ranging from studios to one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, all equipped with a separate living room, full kitchen, and in-unit washer and dryer. The property, set to open in 2024, is also slated to offer a fitness center and swimming pool.

    “We are proud to be introducing the first Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy to the Middle East adding another tier to our luxury accommodation offering,” said Antoni Vives, NEOM’s Chief Urban Planning and Islands Officer. “We understand the desires of our guests traveling with family or a group of friends to have more space to relax. Located near the promenade close to culinary experiences and luxury fashion, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will meet those needs to linger longer, for a comfortable and luxurious stay. We are excited to start welcoming guests so that they can experience all that Sindalah has to offer.”

    The signing of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy Sindalah marks the fourth collaboration between NEOM and Marriott International on the luxury island, which will also include two Luxury Collection properties and an Autograph Collection Hotel.
    The Luxury Collection properties will include a beach resort offering a mix of 70 luxury rooms and suites with private pools. The second Luxury Collection project will be an all-suite property offering, situated in the heart of the retail and marina district. The Autograph Collection property is anticipated to offer 66 rooms and suites, multiple dining options and a spa.
    Sindalah is the first island to be developed in NEOM and is set to be among the most alluring destinations in the Red Sea. A yachting paradise, Sindalah is just a 17-hour sail from the Mediterranean and will be home to a prestigious 86-berth marina. The island will also include over 400 ultra-premium hotel rooms and 300 top-end suites, a beach club, a glamorous yacht club, and a golf course which will deliver two unique nine-hole experiences, 51 luxury retail boutiques along with 38 unique culinary offerings.

    Older
    “Spring Blanc”: Events and Sunshine Skiing in Ischgl

    Newer
    ATLANTIS PARADISE ISLAND ANNOUNCES NEW RESTAURANT, FIELDTRIP WITH AWARD-WINNING CHEF JJ JOHNSON More

  • in

    ONYX Hospitality Group Unveils Expansion for ‘Shama’ Brand Across Thailand, Malaysia, China, Asia.

    ONYX Hospitality Group, the prominent management company in Southeast Asia, is expanding its renowned serviced apartment brand, Shama, with five new properties across Asia. The company recognises the increasing demand for serviced apartments, particularly in the post-pandemic era, and is confident that these new additions will meet the needs of business, leisure, and the growing segment of ‘Bleisure’ travellers.The Shama brand is renowned for its commitment to providing contemporary, stylish, and spacious serviced apartments. Acknowledging and responding to the popularity of serviced apartments for both long and shorter stays, across the domestic and international markets, ONYX confidently introduces five new Shama properties: two in China including Hong Kong, two in Malaysia, and one in Thailand, with opening dates set for 2024.
    Presenting a unique blend of modern design and local cultural influences, the Shama brand offers a distinctive hospitality experience that caters to the discerning needs of today’s travellers. With a focus on creating a home away from home, Shama’s well-appointed serviced apartments are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, convenience, and a sense of belonging for both short and extended stays. Shama is synonymous with personalised service, ensuring that guests enjoy a seamless and memorable stay characterised by a perfect balance of luxury and practicality.
    Each Shama property reflects the brand’s dedication to delivering a lifestyle-centric approach, where guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant surroundings while enjoying the comforts of a fully equipped residence.
    With over 50 years of experience, ONYX Hospitality Group is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for serviced apartments in Asia. The company is expanding its Shama brand to cater to business travellers, Bleisure tourists, and leisure visitors seeking convenient, flexible accommodation, with all the amenities of a home-away-from-home.
    Recent trends, such as visa policies favourable to extended business stays and the rise of Bleisure travel, are driving demand for serviced apartments. ONYX Hospitality Group is responding to this trend with investments in new Shama properties across Asia. The company is confident that its expertise and understanding of the market, coupled with the brand’s new locations, will enable it to capture a significant share of this growing segment.ADVERTISEMENTYuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, highlighted, “The effectiveness of our customised approach to hospitality management enables us to identify investors who understand and share our vision and are prepared to foster high-quality growth in the business. This, in turn, instills confidence in us to invest in the expansion of the ‘Shama’ serviced apartment brand portfolio.”
    He also said, “Shama is a brand under ONYX Hospitality Group’s management, guided by the concept of ‘Freedom to Explore.’ Our aim is to encourage residents to venture out, embrace the city’s vibrancy, and enjoy an exciting and fulfilling life, even when staying in an unfamiliar place, without the sense of loneliness.”
    Each Shama property in Bangkok embodies the spirit of connectivity through the Shama Social Club, a vibrant hub that brings together global travellers. This inclusive community facilitates seamless transitions and fosters meaningful connections with the local culture.
    ONYX Hospitality Group currently operates a total of 16 Shama locations, including 6 in Thailand, 6 in Hong Kong, and 4 in China. ONYX Hospitality Group is committed to expanding the Shama brand whilst continuously evolving and striving to provide guests with the exceptional service and amenities that they have come to expect.
    Upcoming Shama properties scheduled to open in 2024:
    China including Hong Kong: Shama Hub Metro South Hong Kong, Shama Hub Qiantang Thailand: Shama Luxe Sathorn
    Malaysia: Shama Medini Malaysia, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru.

    Older
    The Top Wellness Travel Trends for 2024

    Newer
    5 Top New Year Cruise Deals More

  • in

    CABOT SAINT LUCIA CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

    The Cabot Collection, developer and operator of luxury resort and residential golf destinations, announces the grand opening of Cabot Saint Lucia, situated along one-and-a-half miles of breathtaking coastline with striking views of the Caribbean Sea.Set across one of the most dramatic sites ever selected for golf, Cabot Saint Lucia offers an unparalleled Caribbean golf experience, magnificent real estate opportunities and unique amenities on a spectacular 375-acre peninsula at the northern tip of Saint Lucia.
    With cooling sea breezes, white sand beaches and exquisite ocean views from every corner of the site, Cabot Saint Lucia offers residents and guests exclusive access to amenities and experiences curated specifically for the destination. At the heart of the sprawling property lies Point Hardy Golf Club, featuring a show-stopping 18-hole Coore & Crenshaw golf course. In addition, comfort stations, a food and beverage experience, a retail shop and sports courts are currently available onsite. Additional amenities to follow include a beach club and restaurant, expansive clubhouse, luxury residences and world-class wellness and fitness facilities.
    “When I first saw the land that would become Cabot Saint Lucia, I knew it was the perfect canvas to create something truly awe-inspiring,” said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and Co-founder of Cabot. “Opening Cabot Saint Lucia and Point Hardy Golf Club has been a dream come true, and I am honoured to work alongside the dedicated, creative and talented team whose vision and hard work brought us here today.”
    Golf:Perched above the Atlantic Ocean and designed to blend seamlessly with the unique topography of the magnificent Saint Lucian landscape, Point Hardy Golf Club is the crown jewel of the site. Renowned golf course architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw’s first Caribbean course is a masterpiece, winding through lush terrain, over rocky cliffs jutting into the ocean, and along meandering valleys and sandy beaches. With nine holes playing along the ocean and every hole showcasing mesmerizing views, the course capitalizes on natural beauty and playability at every turn. The closing stretch at Point Hardy embodies the pinnacle of drama: heroic holes in a jaw-dropping setting, with forced carries over jagged rocks and crashing waves on each of the final four holes. Special attention was placed on preserving the local habitat by transplanting existing cacti and native grasses.
    Recently featured as the cover star of GOLF Magazine’s November/December issue, the course debuted as No. 76 in GOLF Magazine’s coveted “Top 100 Courses in the World’’ ranking. Point Hardy Golf Club is the first course in Saint Lucia to make the prestigious list and the highest ranked original design among the new courses on the list.ADVERTISEMENT“It’s very possible that Cabot Saint Lucia is the most visually stunning piece of land we have ever worked with,” said Bill Coore, co-principal of Coore & Crenshaw. “It was a privilege to work with the Cabot team on this one-of-a-kind site, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. This project was truly a labor of love, and the initial feedback on this enchanting property as one of the world’s most sought-after golf destinations is very special to Ben and me.”
    Real Estate and Design: Real estate opportunities at Cabot Saint Lucia range from turnkey residences to expansive, customizable single-family homes, hilltop lots and beachfront living opportunities across seven unique neighborhoods. The landscape features tropical hillsides, sweeping meadows and coastal promontories along with striking elevation changes. Homes hug the natural contours of the land, with building materials chosen for their organic style and ecological sensitivity. Designed to embrace the spectacular natural scenery, open-concept interiors are bright and breezy, complemented by plentiful outdoor living spaces to enjoy the peaceful Caribbean environment year-round.
    To date, Cabot Saint Lucia has sold over $160 million in real estate sales, swiftly selling out of its Phase One offerings and much of Phase Two, priced from $2 million to $11 million. Cabot recently unveiled its latest real estate for sale, the four-bedroom Horizon Villas. The move-in ready residences stand perfectly positioned atop one of the site’s highest points at the heart of the property, with stunning views of Cas en Bas Bay and the majestic topography of the Saint Lucian coastline. With three bedrooms in the center of each villa and a fourth bedroom located in a private, detached casita, the experience seamlessly blends indoor-outdoor living and provides the perfect balance of connection and privacy. The main living space features an open concept kitchen, media room, living and dining area that spills out to an expansive patio featuring an outdoor lounge, infinity-edge plunge pool and picturesque views. Pricing will begin at $5.6 million USD and the first of the Horizon Villas is estimated for completion in December 2025.
    Amenities:Fitness amenities cater to family members of all ages and include two meticulously maintained Har-Tru tennis courts, two clay tennis courts, four pickleball courts, padel courts and basketball courts. The beach experience promises a delightful treat with a wood-fired pizza truck curated by Cabot’s Michelin starred Executive Chef Esther Ha, offering a menu of local, ocean-inspired culinary creations. Future amenities such as the Beach Club will include a series of restaurants and lounges for toes-in-the sand, all-day dining, as well as a pool, cabanas and hammocks. 
    The expansive clubhouse will span three levels and feature breathtaking panoramic views. The first level will include a welcoming bar with a terrace to unwind and enjoy drinks while taking in the serene surroundings, while the second level will be home to well-appointed men’s and women’s changing rooms and a club restaurant. On the third level, an array of entertainment options awaits, including a games lounge, a bowling alley, golf simulators and a theater. The clubhouse is estimated to be completed in 2026. Plans for the wellness center and spa include hydro circuits, massage therapy and an array of fitness offerings and locally inspired spa treatments. The facilities will also feature a full-length lap pool and state-of-the-art gym.
    Activities:On-island adventures include hiking through the rainforest and to the iconic Pitons, birdwatching, horseback riding and embarking on unique excursions, including a mud bath, a volcano, a rum distillery tour, a chef-attended BBQ experience and a chocolate tasting tour. The Cabot Explorers program can design bespoke trips and exhilarating wind and wave adventures including snorkeling, deep-sea fishing trips, Hobie Cats, scuba certification, sailing lessons, kitesurfing, whale watching, kids’ camps and trips to neighboring islands.
    Rich in culture and rare in mountainous beauty, the enchanting island nation of Saint Lucia reveals 238 square miles of lush rainforests encircled by gold- and black-sand beaches—a natural playground for a lifetime of adventures. The land is born of ancient volcanoes, its most famous being the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons, a pair of twin volcanic spires that are among the most recognizable landmarks in the Caribbean. The island enjoys an average year-round temperature of 83°F (27°C).
    To learn more about the world-class golf, real estate and amenities at Cabot Saint Lucia, visit www.cabotsaintlucia.com.

    Older
    EDITION’S FIRST CARIBBEAN PROPERTY MAKES ITS DEBUT

    Newer
    Birch takes up new marketing role with APT & Travelmarvel More

  • in

    Hotelplan UK Publishes First Planet & People Report: Protecting Our Futures

    Hotelplan UK – the parent company of Explore Worldwide, Inghams, Esprit, Inntravel and Santa’s Lapland – has released its first Planet and People report, to follow on from its Climate and Biodiversity papers published early in 2023.The report, Protecting our Futures, tracks Hotelplan UK’s progress towards sustainability goals and incorporates elements of the group’s People strategy for the first time. It highlights where the group has surpassed targets – increasing investments in the planet and charity donations by more than 16% to £1.25 million, for instance – as well as addressing areas such as carbon reduction where efforts need further acceleration to meet Glasgow Declaration targets.
    “It’s been an incredible trading year for our brands, but we’re publishing this report to show that healthy profits and passenger numbers aren’t our only objectives,” said Hotelplan UK CEO, Joe Ponte. “We’re focused on being a purpose-led organisation, meaning an equal focus on People, Planet and Profit is paramount. We’ve got a clear vision of the travel business we want to be and are excited to share the path we’ve mapped to get us there.”
    Highlights of the report include:
    Giving Back
    Hotelplan UK invested over £1.15 million for the planet during its 2022/23 financial year – surpassing its £1 million commitment due to higher-than-projected passenger numbersInvestment went into carbon removal solutions with Klimate, biodiversity restoration with Rewilding Britan and environmental protection with Cool EarthIn addition, over £100,000 was given to charities and projects at brand level – up from £74,000 originally pledgedHotelplan UK will invest a further £1 million in carbon removal and rewilding projects, plus donate a further £100,000 to charitable causes in its 23/24 financial yearCarbon FootprintADVERTISEMENTThe group’s intensity carbon footprint – based on tCO2e per passenger, per night – has decreased by 5%, year-on-yearThe group’s absolute carbon footprint has increased by 42% due to uplifts in passengers and business travelGoing beyond GHG Protocol, Hotelplan UK’s absolute footprint includes estimated transport emissions for all passengers travelling to/from its trips – including those who booked land-only trips and arranged their own flights/transportTo specifically reduce flight emissions – which made up 75% of last year’s footprint – options for flight-free holidays have been increased and direct, economy flights are being sold by defaultPeople
    Hotelplan UK’s board and senior managers have had bonus targets equally aligned against People, Planet and Profit targetsAccessibility was improved at the group’s HQ to support DE&I, with the addition of gender-neutral toilets, braille signage, a wheelchair-adapted kitchen and quiet spacesThe group offers sustainability-centred benefits, including a low-carbon travel policy where team members can earn extra paid leave by swapping flights for lower-carbon alternatives
    Hotelplan UK’s director of sustainability, Prue Stone, co-authored the report. She commented: “We’ve made encouraging progress by reducing our carbon footprint per passenger this year; and the expansion of our sustainability team means each brand now has an expert scrutinising its activities and driving change wherever possible. We want to be clear on the challenges of decarbonisation, however. In 2024, along with focusing on the factors we can directly control, we’re determined to work closely with partners and the industry to turn the dial on key issues such as comparable measurement methodologies, low carbon transport, activism and advocacy.”
    Nicky Lyle, Hotelplan UK’s group director of HR and another of the report’s authors, added: “Being an organisation that prioritises sustainability relies heavily on having a team that believes in the same vision; and strong internal commitment to recruiting people who share our values. We won’t achieve our planet goals unless we invest in our team – the two go hand-in-hand.  We’re pleased to share in this report how we’re bringing that to life and how we’re embedding sustainable behaviours and outputs across all areas of the business.”
    “The road to a sustainable future for tourism is not an easy one, but we firmly believe that acting and communicating with transparency will speed the journey,” added Joe Ponte. “Witnessing progress inspires us all to do more – whilst being open about difficulties and vulnerabilities supports banding together to find solutions. This is the approach we’re taking at Hotelplan UK and we look forward to sharing further updates.”

    Older
    Experience One of Europe’s Most Intense Meteor Showers from the Canary Islands

    Newer
    Riu Palace Pacifico in Nayarit, Mexico, Reopens as Adults-Only Luxury Retreat with Elite Club by RIU More