Luxury travel news from around the world (September 2024)

Sep 30 2024

This month, we’re excited to spotlight an array of stunning offerings in the world of luxury travel, from Four Seasons’ latest private jet itinerary to Six Senses’ upcoming eco-conscious retreat nestled in the picturesque hills of Pennsylvania. All this and more, including the chic debut of the Ritz-Carlton’s second superyacht, a tranquil new resort in Oman, and luxurious culinary experiences at iconic destinations like Royal Palm Beachcomber in Mauritius. Read on for the latest updates to see what’s around the corner…

New luxury travel itinerary for Four Seasons Private Jet Experience

Four Seasons is once again setting the standard in experiential travel with the introduction of a new itinerary, Grand Horizons, as part of the 2026 Four Seasons Private Jet Experience lineup. It begins in the vineyards of California‘s Napa Valley for private wine tastings before jetting across the Pacific to Japan and Vietnam. There, a highlight includes a Four Seasons curated two-night luxury cruise through the awe-inspiring seascape of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, travellers will head to Thailand for cosmopolitan delights and the emerging art scene of Bangkok’s Creative District. Alternatively, guests can choose to upgrade to a two-night stay on the palm-fringed island of Koh Samui, where they can opt to snorkel in the coral gardens with a marine biologist or participate in a private Muay Thai lesson.

From there, it’s off to Europe with stops in the cultural capitals of Istanbul, Milan and Lisbon and a visit to one of Spain‘s most pristine holiday destinations at Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor, which just opened in August 2024. During their stay on the island, guests can set sail across the Balearic Sea discovering hidden beaches and sea caves, take part in a chef-led walking tour of one of Mallorca’s markets, or spend the day discovering wineries and vineyards for private tastings. This incredible itinerary concludes in Montreal, where guests celebrate the journey’s end with gastronomic delights at Marcus Restaurant + Terrace from visionary Chef Marcus Samuelsson at Four Seasons Hotel Montreal.

Another new US resort planned for Six Senses

Situated on a sprawling wooded ridge at the confluence of the Allegheny and Clarion rivers, Six Senses RiverStone Estate will mark the next chapter in one of the region’s cultural and architectural treasures. Marking the latest milestone in the brand’s thoughtful entry into the Americas market, this picturesque country estate will echo the Six Senses ethos of wellness and sustainability, while offering guests and owners a community for connection and reflection. Located outside the quaint Western Pennsylvania town of Foxburg, just 90 minutes north of Pittsburgh, the property is in close proximity to three private airports and a quick getaway from Cleveland, Chicago, Philadelphia and New York.

Anchored by a majestic three-story stone mansion carefully restored by the estate’s former owner, the late Dr. Art Steffee, the resort’s 77 new guest rooms will be woven into the contours of the 1,200-acre estate, with over 50 miles of trails and 7 miles of riverfront, threading together a rich heritage with a visionary masterplan. Forty branded residences will provide the bespoke lifestyle of a private country home with the benefits of a world-class service team and year-round adventures.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s makes its debut

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has launched its second superyacht, Ilma, offering a new level of luxury cruising. Ilma features 224 ocean-view suites, world-class dining by MICHELIN-starred chefs, and luxurious amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and expansive pool deck. The yacht will sail to exclusive destinations across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Northern Europe, providing guests with personalized service and bespoke travel experiences. With a sleek design and top-tier offerings, Ilma continues The Ritz-Carlton’s legacy of redefining luxury yachting. Reservations are now open.

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024

Luxury meets nature in Oman

IHG Hotels & Resorts debuts its first Hotel Indigo resort in the Middle East with the opening of Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa. Jabal Akhdar, meaning “Green Mountain” in Arabic, is a majestic range in Oman known for its stunning landscapes and cooler climate.

Famed for terraced gardens, ancient villages, and dramatic canyons, the new Hotel Indigo resort is nestled 2,000 metres above sea level, featuring 173 beautifully designed rooms, suites, and chalets, each offering majestic views of the neighbouring mountains. The new property is located a two-hour drive from Oman’s capital, Muscat, and a six-hour drive from Dubai.

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru invites guests
to Lonubo private island experience

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort proudly introduces an elevated experience in barefoot luxury travel with the exclusive re-opening of Lonubo, an enchanting private island available for hire. This captivating retreat offers discerning travellers an extraordinary blend of seclusion, serenity and bespoke indulgence.

Reopened this month, Lonubo Island is a breath-taking oasis just 200 metres from OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, accessible only by private boat transfer. This hidden gem is designed for guests seeking privacy and tranquillity, where every detail immerses you in barefoot luxury and nature. Awaiting you on Lonubo are plush sun loungers, beanbags, sunshades, towels and refreshing beverages – all set amid a backdrop of swaying palms, pristine sands and the Indian Ocean’s mesmerising turquoise waters.

Paris’ new Hôtel Balzac opens Japanese-inspired spa

The Ikoi Spa at Hôtel Balzac is now open in Paris’ new five-star hotel just off the top of the Champs-Élysées in the 8th Arr. Inspired by traditional Japanese techniques, the Ikoi Spa at Hôtel Balzac provides a range of treatments and massages on tables or tatami mats offering travelers to the heart of the French capital a sanctuary “where one feels good” as its name in Japanese implies.

The Ikoi Spa’s treatment menu, crafted together with the French natural beauty brand Omnisens, brings together dream protocols to revitalize tired faces and bodies, with authentic rituals such as the signature anti-aging treatment, the Kobido facial treatment, and massages like Shiatsu, Take, and deep tissue massage.

New beachfront restaurant for Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury

Starting this October, the newest dining destination of Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury will invite guests to savour Mediterranean delights against a stunning ocean backdrop. A culinary journey that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. To mark its debut, acclaimed Lebanese chef Alan Geaam will host a series of exclusive dinners from 24th to 26th October, showcasing a creative Lebanese-inspired mezze menu.

Named after the iconic beach where the Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury is nestled, Grand Sable is also the name of the hotel’s new beachfront restaurant, ready to make a splash this season. Open to both hotel guests and island residents seeking new culinary delights, this restaurant is poised to become the must-visit spot of Mauritius’ summer – a season that promises to be as vibrant and flavourful as the Mediterranean sun.

Located in the Fuji Five Lakes region, on the most accessible of the five lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko, Glamping Villa Hanz offers an unforgettable escape for nature and culture enthusiasts. For accommodation, guests can choose from villas, ideal for those new to glamping with a few added home comforts; Pao, igloo-like tents in the depth of the forest; or even the Guest House, highlighting art and tradition.

Set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji’s base, Glamping Villa Hanz invites individuals to partake in the serene activity of star gazing, offering an unobstructed view of the night sky. As daylight fades and the sky embraces darkness, the sparkling array of stars unfolds like an enchanting tableau. A guide will take guests to a spectacular location to look up into the night sky of Kawaguchiko where with minimal light interference in this picturesque setting, the celestial panorama transforms into a breath-taking spectacle.

Bentley releases new luggage to celebrate the launch of new Continental GT and GTC

Bentley has released new luggage, complementing the wider collection, to celebrate the launch of the new Continental GT and GTC. This exclusive offering takes inspiration from the powerful grand tourer’s new design DNA and showcases Bentley’s dedication to superior craftsmanship and handcrafted luxury.

Presented as a set featuring three essential pieces: a Weekender Bag, a Backpack and a Wash Bag, the collection is in Gravity Grey in a nod to the new contemporary hide colour introduced with the fourth generation Continental GT and GTC.

Aman to unveil first resort in the Maldives on a remote atoll

Luxury hospitality brand Aman is making its inaugural entry into the Maldives with a resort that will feature 52 pavilions and 16 private residences. Situated in the tranquil Vaavu Atoll, the property will be designed by renowned Kerry Hill Architects, a frequent collaborator with Aman. There will be a mix of standalone villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, some enjoying more seclusion on private extensions, and all will individual pools for privacy and relaxation.

The 16 exclusive residences will range from five to ten bedrooms, and be set on private islets, each boasting their own beach, 25-meter swimming pool and a personal jetty for easy access. Although secluded, residents will still be close to the resort’s main amenities, including a beach club, a variety of dining options, and private dining locations for intimate gatherings.

Island hopping in Greece set to get faster with hoper

Island-hopping in Greece has just had an upgrade with the launch of hoper, the country’s first helicopter airline offering scheduled services. Hoper is now selling tickets to 11 destinations, including some of the more remote islands such as Antiparos, Folegandros, Ios, Kea, Patmos, Sifnos and Spetses. These flights all connect through the airline’s hubs in Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. Prices for a one-way ticket start at €160, though they can rise with demand.

Tasmanian government announces plans for a 190-room design hotel at Launceston

The Tasmanian government has unveiled plans for a new 190-room, five-star hotel at 41–55 Paterson Street in Launceston, developed by Creative Property Holdings and designed by Telha Clarke. The hotel will combine modern architecture with Launceston’s natural beauty and vibrant urban charm; guests will enjoy street-front dining and explore nearby business and cultural facilities, making it an ideal base for those looking to retreat, recharge and discover the best of Tasmania’s northern region.

Viking and the Magnificent Mekong

Viking has opened bookings for its 2027 season of the 15-day Magnificent Mekong cruise tour. The addition of a second ship, the Viking Tonle, launching in October 2025, will expand Viking’s presence on the Mekong River, with 70 departures scheduled to meet growing demand for this popular journey.

The 80-passenger Viking Tonle, designed specifically for Mekong River navigation, will join its sister ship, Viking Saigon, which began sailing in 2022. Both ships will offer the Magnificent Mekong itinerary, taking guests on a voyage between Kampong Cham in Cambodia and Mỹ Tho in Vietnam.

Thailand’s most outstanding hotels highlighted by MICHELIN

The MICHELIN Guide has introduced its new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions, highlighting the finest hotels in Thailand. This update comes as part of MICHELIN’s ongoing effort to refresh its global hotel selection, which now includes over 5,000 properties worldwide after years of meticulous evaluation. In Thailand’s 2024 guide, 8 hotels received the prestigious Three Key rating, alongside 19 Two Key hotels and 31 One Key hotels. Among the eight Three Key hotels are some of Thailand’s most luxurious seaside resorts, including Amanpuri, Phulay Bay, Samujana Villas and Soneva Kiri.

New Hong Kong-Dallas Fort Worth route for Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific will introduce non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth starting on 24 April 2025, marking the first time the airline has served this Texas destination. Dallas Fort Worth will become Cathay Pacific’s sixth U.S. gateway and eighth in North America. The new route will operate four times a week using Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Cathay Pacific currently runs 88 weekly return flights to North America, connecting cities like Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Seabourn announces solar eclipse tours for 2026

Seabourn has revealed two special cruises in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean for August 2026, offering guests the chance to witness a total solar eclipse. The Seabourn Ovation will embark on a 14-day West Ireland Gems & Solar Eclipse voyage from Dover to Reykjavik, while the Seabourn Sojourn will sail a 10-day Spanish Gems & Solar Eclipse journey, roundtrip from Barcelona. Both ships will be strategically positioned for optimal eclipse viewing, with themed programs and expert talks to enhance the experience.

The Seabourn Ovation will position itself in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Ireland for the eclipse, while the Seabourn Sojourn will view the event from the Balearic Sea near Spain. Special guest experts will host educational sessions on board to enrich the celestial event. Bookings for these eclipse cruises and the rest of Seabourn’s 2026 European season will open on 10 October 2024.

Asilia Africa initiative to preserve Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

A new initiative in East Africa aims to preserve the critically important Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, a biodiverse ecosystem that is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. The upcoming Erebero Hills lodge from Asilia Africa, set to open in early 2026, will blend sustainable luxury with the unique experience of observing these endangered species in their natural habitat. Nestled within 45 acres of reforested land, the lodge will be constructed primarily from locally sourced bamboo, emphasizing environmental sustainability while also supporting the local economy.

Erebero Hills will not only enhance the guest experience but also focus on restoring indigenous vegetation and creating economic opportunities for local communities, particularly the Bakiga and Batwa peoples. With activities like gorilla trekking, guided walks to waterfalls, and workshops featuring traditional crafts, guests will have the opportunity to engage with the area’s rich cultural heritage. While the lodge is set to officially open in early 2026, booking will begin in December 2024.

Milestone achievement in commercial space travel for Space Perspective

Space Perspective has completed a successful full flight profile of its uncrewed Spaceship Neptune-Excelsior, marking a significant step toward crewed spaceflights. Launched from Marine Spaceport Voyager in St. Petersburg, Florida, on September 15, 2024, the flight demonstrated the spacecraft’s ability to reach altitudes of approximately 100,000 feet, validating key technological advancements during its six-hour journey, including a controlled descent and splashdown.

This achievement highlights several crucial innovations, such as the patented launch system and advanced thermal management, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for future passengers. The successful flight has provided valuable data for refining spacecraft systems and developing crewed test flights. Space Perspective aims to lead the commercial space travel market and plans to begin taking its 1,800+ ticket holders to the edge of space in 2026, with seats priced at $125,000.

Stunning refurbishment for The Peninsula New York

The Peninsula New York has completed a comprehensive refurbishment of its interior design, enhancing 219 guest rooms and suites, along with public spaces and dining venues. This extensive upgrade, which began in January 2024, revitalises key areas including the Lobby, Reception, Palm Court, and the newly transformed rooftop lounge, Pen Top, all while drawing inspiration from Manhattan’s Roaring 1920s era.

The refurbishment aims to offer guests a luxurious experience with elegantly designed spaces, bespoke amenities, and personalized services. The updated guest rooms are styled to resemble private Manhattan apartments, featuring a light color palette and modern conveniences, including advanced in-room technology. Dining options have also been elevated, with Pen Top offering handcrafted cocktails and light bites against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, while Gotham Lounge returns as an intimate piano bar. Overall, the enhancements solidify The Peninsula New York’s reputation as a premier luxury destination in Manhattan.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa introduces Desert Pool Villas

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is set to unveil its eagerly awaited Desert Pool Villas, inspired by the Bedouin lifestyle. The villas embody a minimalist aesthetic known as ‘Sands of Serenity,’ seamlessly blending modern luxury with the serene natural surroundings of the desert. With eight villas available in one- and two-bedroom configurations, guests will enjoy unparalleled privacy in a tranquil setting designed to celebrate the allure of the desert.

Each villa features spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, complete with private pools, sun loungers, and outdoor fireplaces, ensuring a deep connection to the stunning landscape. The villas are designed to maximize natural light, with circular ceilings and clerestory windows that beautifully illuminate the spaces throughout the day. Guests will have access to a dedicated personal concierge to curate their bespoke luxury experience, allowing them to relax and reconnect with nature while enjoying exceptional hospitality. The resort also offers a variety of dining and adventure options, enhancing the immersive experience in this unique desert retreat.

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Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.