Golden Summer
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USA & CANADA The latest hotels and flights to book
DESTINATION DOSSIER
Saint Lucia
LUXURY & FAMILY Upscale options for all budgets
The Evolution of Abu Dhabi
Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts, Jamaica
Reasons to book Paradisus Palma Real Resort
Top offerings in Europe’s best destinations
REASONS WHY TTC Tour Brands is trusted by travel advisors
USA + CANADA
Cirque du Soleil debuts Hawaiian show at OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber
Canadian travellers heading to can now add a one-of-a-kind cultural experience to their island itinerary. The OUTRIGGER Beachcomber Hotel is home to ‘Auana, an exclusive Cirque du Soleil production blending Polynesian mythology with the troupe’s signature acrobatics – performed only at the hotel’s intimate OUTRIGGER Theater.
Located in the heart of , the recently renovated Beachcomber offers guestrooms with private lanais that open to views of Beach, handcrafted Kona coffee from Hawaiian Aroma Caffé and rooftop drinks at Maui Brewing Co. Guests can enjoy a beach day just 90 seconds from their door, all before taking in a world-class performance without leaving the property.
With direct flights to Honolulu from major Canadian gateways and new hotel packages offering preferred seating for ‘Auana, the OUTRIGGER Beachcomber delivers a seamless, uniquely Hawaiian escape. outrigger.com
Hard Rock Hotel London, ON now open
Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, is now open and accepting reservations. Located within the city’s indoor entertainment complex at 100 Kellogg Lane, the new-build hotel features 164 guestrooms and suites, with special offerings like family-style
guestrooms with separate rooms with bunk beds. The signature Rock Star Suite includes a plush living area and bar, musicinspired touches and a private kitchenette. F&B venues include the GMT-5 bar, Sessions Restaurant & Bar and a speakeasy named for the year the Kellogg’s Factory opened – 1913. hardrock.com
Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario
Nobu Hotel Toronto opens in the heart of entertainment district
Toronto’s luxury hotel scene has welcomed a major addition with the opening of Nobu Hotel Toronto on June 1, 2025. Located in the entertainment district, the hotel occupies floors 41 to 45 of a mixeduse property and is within walking distance of major landmarks like the CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Centre. With just 36 rooms and suites, Nobu Hotel Toronto offers an exclusive experience, featuring Japaneseinspired guestroom amenities, a Sakura Lounge for all-day dining, priority reservations at Nobu Toronto restaurant and a state-ofthe-art wellness centre with Peloton bikes and in-room Zen Wellness programs.
To celebrate its opening, the hotel is offering a grand opening promotion, including complimentary breakfast, a minibar, valet parking, room upgrade (based on availability), guaranteed dinner reservations at Nobu Toronto at time of booking, a welcome amenity and up to $200 in hotel credit. The offer is available for stays from June 1, 2025, onwards. www.nobuhotels.com/toronto
Coming in 2029: Le Germain Hotel in downtown Vancouver
Le Germain Hotel is set to open in downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour in 2029. A collaboration between Germain Hotels and Reliance Properties, the boutique Le Germain Hotel Vancouver will transform an existing office building into a 180-room property near the Vancouver Convention Centre.
“As a family-owned Canadian business, we are deeply committed to creating meaningful projects that leave a lasting impact. Vancouver is a dynamic city with a bright future and we are thrilled to invest here in partnership with Reliance Properties, a company that shares our values and passion for excellence,” said Hugo Germain, Vice-President, Operations at Germain Hotels.
This project marks Germain Hotels’ expansion into its 12th Canadian city and its 22nd property overall. It will be the ninth under the Le Germain Hotel banner, following the recently announced Le Germain Hotel Casino de Montréal.
germainhotels.com
Universal Orlando opens Terra Luna Resort
Universal Orlando Resort has officially opened Universal Terra Luna Resort, a new Prime Value hotel offering an immersive, space-themed experience. Adding 750 guestrooms to Universal’s hotel collection, Terra Luna features guestrooms that accommodate up to four people, several dining options, a pool with a hot tub and fire pit, fitness centre and game room. Located near the new Universal Epic Universe, guests also enjoy Early Park Admission and complimentary shuttle service. Vacation packages, including savings of up to $200, are available for travellers bundling their stay with theme park tickets.
VAXVacationAccess.com
Le Germain Hotel Vancouver
Nobu Hotel Toronto
Porter expands service throughout North America this summer
Porter Airlines is expanding its North American network for summer 2025, with increased domestic capacity and continued winter routes. Domestic flights will make up 80% of the network, up from 75%, while U.S. routes will see targeted reductions. However, overall Canada-U.S. capacity will still be 25% higher than last summer.
The expansion is supported by 10 additional Embraer E195-E2 jets, bringing the total to 44, alongside
29 Dash 8-400s. New and increased routes include Toronto PearsonMoncton, Hamilton-Vancouver (doubling to 14 weekly flights), and expanded service between MontrealVancouver and Toronto-St. John’s.
New transborder routes from Toronto Pearson to New YorkLaGuardia and Montreal to Newark are launching, along with extended seasonal service to Phoenix, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. Porter’s U.S. capacity has grown by 25% year-overyear, with strong demand supporting the airline’s premium service offerings. flyporter.com
Rocky Mountaineer launches Glenwood Springs packages for summer 2025
Rocky Mountaineer has introduced two exclusive rail packages for the summer 2025 season, offering travellers a chance to experience Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its wellness retreats and natural hot springs, the town serves as the highlight of these limited-time getaways available between June and August.
The Glenwood Springs Getaway Package features a two-night roundtrip journey beginning and ending in Denver. Guests will travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, crossing the Continental Divide and passing through rugged canyons alongside the Colorado River. After spending two nights in Glenwood Springs, they will board the train once more for the return trip to Denver.
The Glenwood Springs Classic Package offers a more extended experience, with two nights in Denver and two nights in Glenwood Springs. This itinerary allows guests to fully appreciate the landscapes between the two cities while enjoying two full days aboard the luxurious train. Both packages are available in SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus service levels, promising a scenic and comfortable rail adventure.
rockymountaineer.com
TOOR Hotel opens in downtown Toronto
Manga Hotel Group has officially launched the TOOR Hotel, a new upscale property in downtown Toronto, part of JdV by Hyatt. Located in the city’s Garden District, the 33-storey hotel features 232 guestrooms and suites, as well as 181 residential rental units. A range of amenities is included, like Muse Bistro + Bar, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with panoramic views, and 4,000 square feet of event space. Guests can enjoy a range of services, from valet parking to curated amenities that reflect Toronto’s vibrant culture. The hotel’s design focuses on comfort, with floor-to-ceiling windows, custom artwork and modern tech features in every room. With its prime location, TOOR Hotel provides easy access to the city’s financial district, shopping, dining and arts scene, positioning itself as a stylish hub for both business and leisure travellers. A second TOOR Hotel is slated to open in New York City later this year. toorhotel.com
Rocky Mountaineer in Glenwood Springs
Marriott’s 300th hotel in Canada opens in downtown Montreal
Marriott International has reached a major milestone with the opening of its 300th property in Canada – the Moxy Montreal Downtown. Located on rue Saint-Jacques, steps from Old Montreal and bustling SainteCatherine and Notre-Dame streets, the hotel brings the brand’s signature playful energy to the heart of the city. Aimed at travellers seeking a vibrant, social experience, the brand is known for its check-in-atthe-bar concept, complimentary welcome cocktails, and engaging communal spaces.
Developed in partnership with RIMAP Hospitality, Moxy Montreal Downtown features 216 modern guestrooms, flexible co-working areas, and a lively restaurant, bar and lounge. This is the third Moxy hotel in Canada, joining Moxy Banff and Moxy Halifax Downtown, which both opened in 2024. Moxy Ottawa is expected to open in 2026, also with RIMAP, while Moxy Vancouver Downtown – part of a dual-branded project with Element Hotels – broke ground in spring 2025. marriott.com
AC Hotel Old Montreal now open in the heart of historic district
Knightstone Hotel Group and Urgo Hotels Canada have officially opened the AC Hotel Old Montreal, a stylish new property in the city's historic district. Part of Marriott International’s AC Hotels brand, the 124-room hotel is located steps from the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Saint Lawrence River, and features sleek, minimalist rooms with luxury bedding, Nespresso machines, spa-style bathrooms and private terraces in select categories. Guests can also enjoy 24/7 indoor parking, EV charging stations, a modern gym, a 24-hour market and 4,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space.
marriott.com
Hotel X Toronto joins Destination by Hyatt brand
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has expanded its presence in Canada with the introduction of Hotel X Toronto under its Destination by Hyatt brand. This marks the first Canadian property for the brand, further strengthening Hyatt’s footprint in the region as part of its Classics portfolio. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, the hotel features a year-round heated rooftop pool with sweeping city views, Canada’s first Guerlain Spa, and a 90,000-square-foot athletic club, 10XTO, complete with tennis and squash courts. Additional amenities include an art gallery by Neil Dankoff, a 250seat cinema and diverse dining options. The hotel also offers flexible event spaces and emphasizes wellness and sustainability, making it an ideal destination for guests seeking both relaxation and recreation.
destinationbyhyatt.com
Montreal
Hotel X Toronto
So many ways to get away to Australia
From Sydney’s iconic Opera House to the laid-back allure of Brisbane, Australia is a country of remarkable contrasts! With the choice of year-round, non-stop service from Vancouver to Sydney soaring up to 10 times per week, or service from Vancouver to Brisbane up to 7 times per week, culture seekers and adventure lovers can take off on their schedule.
Visit aircanada.com to learn more.
®Air Canada and the Air Canada maple leaf logo are registered trademarks of Air Canada.
Turks and Caicos Live the Life of
Sandcastle Royalty.
Introducing the Newest Village at Beaches® Turks and Caicos.
Meet Treasure Beach Village, an immersive island playground where sand and sea meet in perfect harmony. From brand-first suites to world-class dining, every moment is designed for amazing vacationing and easy fun. The deeper your clients dive, the close they’ll become — to the ocean, the island, and each other.
Here, play comes easy. Guests can splash through winding water pathways, float in a zero-entry lagoon pool, and relax in suites designed to make them stop and stare. With 11 all-new room categories — including the firstever CrystalSky Reserve Villas and the mega-spacious
Chairman’s Penthouse Suite — your clients will have space to roam, adventure, and always come back together.
Cravings? Consider them covered. From craft coffee at Brü to the first-ever Beaches Butch’s Island Chop House, plus a world of flavors at Pinta Food Hall, every meal tells a story they’ll never forget. Catch a movie at the Starfish Cinema or the stars from the balcony – whatever they’re in the mood for, we have it. And with all of Beaches Turks and Caicos next door, there’s a legendary sandbox to explore.
The real treasure here? Moments and laughter shared together, under the Caribbean sun.
LUXURY + FAMILY
Iberostar Beachfront Resorts in Mexico offer fun-filled getaways
Iberostar Beachfront Resorts in Mexico are highlighting their family-friendly offerings, designed to take full advantage of the country’s warm climate and coastal charm. At the heart of the experience are Aquafun zones, which feature kiddie pools, water slides, pirate ships, fairytale castles, mini waterfalls and a lazy river – providing children with hours of entertainment and imaginative play. Beyond the water attractions, families can also
participate in beachside water sports, bike rentals and fitness classes, creating a well-rounded vacation experience for all ages.
Holidays that allow children to unwind, learn and forge friendships are the driving force behind Iberostar’s Star Camp, a children’s activity program available at the company’s family-friendly hotels. The program aims to foster healthy habits, teamwork and cross-cultural friendships through games and educational activities, ensuring young guests remain engaged throughout their stay.
iberostaragents.com/ca
Riverside Luxury Cruises waives single supplement
Riverside Luxury Cruises is responding to the growing trend of solo travel by waiving the single supplement fee for solo travellers on select suites across its fleet. Riverside's intimate ships and all-inclusive fares provide a welcoming environment, ideal for solos looking to form new connections. Popular itineraries include the ‘Danube Medley,’ which explores Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, and the ‘Romantic Rhine Northbound’ highlighting Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. The single supplement waiver applies to select suites on the Riverside Mozart, Debussy and Ravel ships.
Riverside-Cruises.com/TA
Vienna, Austria
Abercrombie & Kent introduces Ultimate 2026
Private Jet Journey
Abercrombie & Kent has announced ‘Around the World with Geoffrey Kent: An Inspiring Expedition by Private Jet,’ a bespoke journey spanning five continents. Departing in October 2026, the itinerary is personally designed and hosted by A&K founder Geoffrey Kent. With only 48 guests aboard a customized Boeing 757, the trip blends cultural and natural wonders in destinations such as the Cook Islands, Sumatra, Mozambique and Côte d’Ivoire. Highlights include exclusive access to the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary and an island-hopping safari in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago.
The private jet is outfitted with fully lie-flat seats and a dedicated crew. A&K’s expert team, including a tour director, physician and photographer, ensures a seamless and enriching experience. The 24-day journey runs from Oct. 2-25, 2026, and is priced at US$198,500 per person, double occupancy. abercrombiekent.com
Beaches Turks and Caicos to debut new Village in spring 2026
Beaches Resorts has announced a major expansion at its Turks and Caicos location, introducing the new Treasure Beach Village, set to open in spring 2026. This US$150 million development will feature 101 multi-bedroom suites, including two-, three- and four-bedroom luxury accommodations, increasing the resort’s total key count to 858. Situated on a 100-acre beachfront property, the new village will offer a 15,000-square-foot infinity-edge pool with slides, a splash pad and a swim-up bar, seven new dining concepts including a food hall and Butch’s Island Chophouse, a 32-seat cinema and sunken social pods. Accommodations include spacious suites and villas with washer/dryers and wine coolers.
beaches.com
Air Canada partners with Michelin-starred Chef Masaki Hashimoto
Air Canada has partnered with Michelin-starred Chef Masaki Hashimoto to enhance its Signature Class dining on flights between Canada and Japan. Chef Hashimoto, the owner of Toronto’s Kaiseki Yuzen Hashimoto, is known for his dedication to traditional Japanese Kaiseki cuisine. His exclusive creations are available on all flights connecting the two countries. The airline offers daily flights from Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal to Japan, with service to Narita, Osaka and Haneda airports. aircanada.com
Beaches Turks & Caicos
Abercrombie & Kent’s private jet
African Travel launches 2026 Concierge
Collection with two new journeys
African Travel, Inc. (ATI) has introduced its 2026 Concierge Collection, designed for discerning travellers seeking a luxury, smallgroup safari experience. Guests enjoy luxurious accommodations, the services of a dedicated Travel Director, air transfers, exclusive game viewing, most meals and gratuities included, with Platinum Airport Service adding convenience. With a maximum of 14 guests, ATI ensures a personalized adventure.
The collection includes two new itineraries. The “Splendors of Southern Africa” starts in Cape Town with a stay at the Cape Grace Hotel and features private tours of the Cape Peninsula and Winelands. The safari portion is at Sabi Sabi Sandringham Lodge in Kruger, followed by a visit to Victoria Falls for a sunset cruise and a helicopter ride. “The Great Migration – An Ultimate Safari” takes guests to Kenya and Tanzania, starting with a stay in Nairobi followed by visits to the Maasai Mara, Serengeti and Lake Manyara, plus numerous game drives and the Ngorongoro Crater. africantravelinc.com
Now open: W Punta Cana, W Hotels’ first all-inclusive resort
W Hotels has debuted its first allinclusive resort, W Punta Cana, Adult All-Inclusive. Opened in spring 2025, the beachfront property offers 340 oceanview guestrooms, 12 dining venues, a 15,000-square-foot FIT gym, the AWAY Spa, multiple pools, a private beach club, water sports and a rooftop bar. The “Stay Longer, Experience More” promotion offers up to 20% off stays of four nights or more until Dec. 31, 2025.
marriott.com/pujwh
Mandarin Oriental expands in Paris with management of iconic Hôtel Lutetia
Mandarin Oriental has expanded its Parisian portfolio with the management of Hôtel Lutetia, now rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris. As the only Palace hotel on the Left Bank, the property enhances the brand’s presence in the French capital, complementing its existing address on Rue Saint-Honoré. This new addition marks the Group’s commitment to offering guests two distinct luxury experiences: a vibrant, heritage-rich icon on the Left Bank and a chic, contemporary retreat on the Right Bank. Hôtel Lutetia, originally founded in 1910, has long been a cultural and intellectual hub, hosting figures such as Picasso and James Joyce. It completed a comprehensive restoration in 2018, blending historical elegance with modern luxury. mandarinoriental.com
Cape Town, South Africa
Mandarin Oriental Lutetia
ALL ABOUT SAINT LUCIA
The picture-perfect island is where adventure, romance, wellness and luxury meet
DID YOU KNOW? Saint Lucia is home to the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano. The therapeutic Sulphur Springs is famous for its warm, mineral-rich waters, said to keep you looking younger for longer.
You’ve gotta try this! Don’t leave Saint Lucia without visiting DUKE’S PLACE IN GROS ISLET, known for its fresh-off-the-grill seafood and local vibes.
SAINT LUCIA is best known for her iconic Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as her breathtaking lush terrain.
Coming in 2025: Secrets St. Lucia, a much-anticipated luxury beachfront escape as well as locally owned Sapphire Sands, part of the Bay Gardens Resort group.
GOT KIDS?
Organized kids’ clubs are available at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Royalton Saint Lucia An Autograph Collection, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, and Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort.
GETTING THERE IS EASY!
AVAILABLE MULTIPLE TIMES A WEEK via direct flights from Toronto with Air Canada and WestJet THIS SUMMER CANADIANS CAN VISIT
WHERE’S THE PARTY? Don’t miss Saint Lucia’s weekly FRIDAY GROS ISLET STREET PARTY, where locals and visitors come together for GREAT FOOD, DANCING AND LIVE MUSIC.
Saint Lucia’s YEAR-ROUND SUNSHINE makes any time a good time to visit, but it truly comes alive during the SAINT LUCIA JAZZ & ARTS FESTIVAL in May and CARNIVAL in July.
For more information, go to stlucia.org
I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU… Saint Lucia has been named ‘WORLD’S LEADING HONEYMOON DESTINATION’ at the World Travel Awards an impressive 16 TIMES!
THE EVOLUTION OF
No longer just a transit hub, the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates is quickly emerging as a major cultural and entertainment destination
By Waheeda Harris
n the 50-plus years since the formation of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi has steadily developed its tourism, not relying on endless skyscrapers and world’s biggest labels, instead focusing on attractions related to sports, entertainment, architecture and art.
The recent debut of Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, which attracts the cultural cognoscenti from around the world, confirmed what the statistics show: in 2024, the largest of the emirates welcomed 6.5 million visitors to the most popular attraction in the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while the Louvre Abu Dhabi welcomed 1.4 million visitors, both recordbreaking numbers.
The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT) has a clear mandate with its Tourism Strategy 2030: to increase visitors from 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million in 2030. Luxe brands such as Waldorf Astoria, Nobu and the Vignette Collection from IHG are actively adding hotels in coming years, while the expansion of Yas Island and Saadiyat Cultural
District are making Abu Dhabi an alluring destination for leisure travellers seeking fivestar amenities and attractions.
Beyond the downtown
Leaving behind the urban surroundings, past the camel farms and never-ending sand dunes, roads lead to Al Ain, once the main connector on the caravan route between Oman and Abu Dhabi. This oasis city has an important role in the emirate’s history, as the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, a founding father of the UAE and the ancestral home to the House of Nahyan, Abu Dhabi’s royal family. Located 90 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and the second largest city of the emirate, Al Ain was chosen by the Gulf Cooperation Council to be the Gulf Tourism Capital 2025, hosting tourism events and programs throughout the year to encourage visitors to discover this living oasis. Founded in 1981, the Council includes six countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – and designates a tourism capital every year to promote tourism and showcase a city’s distinctive experiences.
There are plenty of places to explore in Al Ain. With 1,200 hectares containing 147,000 date palm trees and diverse vegetation, the city’s oasis is thriving thanks to an ancient practice of irrigation called falaj, which uses underground aqueducts and gravity to move water. Nearby Jebel Hafit is the highest point in Abu Dhabi at 1,249 metres and provides an unforgettable place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
Qasr Al Muwaiji has been a fort, residence and government building, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011, in addition to six Al Ain oases and the archaeological areas of Hafit, Hili and Bidaa Bint Saud, which revealed stone tombs, wells and adobe buildings dating to the Bronze and Iron Ages over 5,000 years ago.
If you’re looking to live in the lap of luxury, consider Al Ain Rotana, a five-star hotel featuring 246 rooms, suites,
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain
chalet and villas, six restaurants and bars, a pool, Bodylines Fitness and a Wellness Centre and Zen Spa.
An island Emirate
Did you know Abu Dhabi is an archipelago, with over 200 islands? Sir Bani Yas Island, located 250 kilometres from the city, is one of eight islands of Al Dhafra and features three luxury resorts by Anantara. The island’s gem is the Arabian Wildlife Park, a protected reserve home to over 17,000 wild animals and luxury resorts where visitors can choose equestrian activities, visit a former Christian monastery that dates back to 600 AD, and experience safaris to see Arabian oryx, gazelle and hyena.
Closer to the city, a 10-minute ferry ride leads to Zaya Nurai Island, featuring white sand beaches, a turquoise sea perfect for watersports, and the luxurious five-star Zaya Nurai Island Resort, a 32 all-villa ac-
commodation, each with a private pool and butler service, featuring five restaurants and spa.
A popular island and one of the first to lure visitors to Abu Dhabi is Yas Island, which opened in 2010 with Ferrari World, the first Ferrari-branded theme park featuring 40 rides and the ability to drive a Ferrari. Several attractions have made Yas Island a lure for adrenaline-seeking travellers, including Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World theme park featuring the world’s first WB themed hotel, CLYMB Abu Dhabi and Yas Links Golf Course designed by Kyle Phillips. Yas Island also offers over 10 brand name hotels to choose from, including Hilton, W, Radisson Blu, Staybridge and Doubletree.
The island really revs up during the annual Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a Formula One race held at the Yas Marina Circuit. In 2024, the F1 race welcomed 190,000 fans, an increase of 20,000 over the previous year, making it the largest weekend attendance since 2017. Thanks to the recent Netflix documentary “Drive to Survive” and a focus on new markets, the global fan base for Formula One has surged to 750 million worldwide, becoming the world’s most popular annual sporting series, according to a 2024 poll by Nielsen Sports. Announced this past spring, The Walt Disney Company and Miral, an Abu Dhabi-based creator of immersive experiences, have confirmed plans for the seventh Disney theme park on Yas Island. Combining the latest technology, contemporary architecture, Emirati culture and beloved Disney stories and magic, Disney Yas Island will be the company’s first major theme park in 10 years and the first in the Middle East region.
Yas Island
Ferrari World Park
An emerging art hub
The art world was put on notice in 2006 when Abu Dhabi officially announced the creation of the Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi, a concentration of art institutions on Saadiyat Island.
By the end of 2025, the district will boast buildings designed by Jean Nouvel, Foster + Partners, Mecanoo, Rafael Vinoly Architects, Sir David Adjaye and Frank Gehry while also bringing world-recognized art institutions to the district. Welcoming several ‘starchitects’ to its skyline, Abu Dhabi has been tapped to be the first Middle Eastern city to host this year’s Pritzker Prize ceremony, the international awards for architecture akin to Hollywood’s Oscars.
The Saadiyat Cultural District has been steadily encouraging visitors to explore. Debuting in 2009, Manaraat Al Saadiyat is a multi-functional art building, showcasing exhibitions, film screenings, studio spaces, performances, workshops and events to connect the arts community. In 2010, New York University added NYU Abu Dhabi to its global university network with a temporary location, officially opening its campus in 2014 on Saadiyat Island.
Berklee Abu Dhabi later opened in 2020, the first branch of the prestigious Boston music school offering educational experiences and public performances, while the Louvre Abu Dhabi was unveiled in 2017 as a bridge between western and eastern art forms, with 8,000 square metres of galleries, including the largest in the region.
The newest addition to the cultural district is teamLab Phenomena, created by the Japanese art collective teamLab. It’s an interactive and sensory-challenging series of installations that incorporates sound, video, wind and water. Opened in April 2025, anyone from eight to 80 years old will appreciate
this immersive exhibition, inspired by the natural world. There are almost 10 permanent teamLab exhibitions in cities around the world, including Tokyo, Osaka, Jeddah and Macao.
Upcoming to the district is a trio of museums: the Zayed National Museum, showcasing the history of the United Arab Emirates through art and artefacts; the Natural History Museum, providing a view of the origins of the planet, flora and fauna; and the Gehry-designed Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring art created since 1960, with a focus on artists from North Africa, West Asia and South Asia as well as specific commissions.
With the recent completion of Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, a six-month public art exhibition in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain featuring 50 artists from the emirates, Middle East and other regions, Abu Dhabi has successfully forged partnerships to bring art into unusual spaces, like the corniche pathway along the Arabian Gulf, public parks throughout the city, the carpet souk and Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal.
Beyond the art world, long-term goals for Abu Dhabi include 180,000 new tourism jobs, set forth with a plan that includes recent marketing campaigns starring high-profile celebrities like Chris Hemsworth. And with the addition of Disney Abu Dhabi on the horizon, visitors will have even more reasons to visit Abu Dhabi for years to come.
Etihad Airways will debut the A380 on its daily service between Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Toronto Pearson (YYZ) on June 24, 2025, featuring The Residence, the first three-room suite in the sky.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal
Corniche
Montego Bay, JAMAICA
IN GRAND STYLE
Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts has two stunning properties in Jamaica
Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts has 2 resorts in Jamaica, offering over 1,000 hotel rooms combined.
Across Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa, guests enjoy access to over 4 pristine beaches.
CHEERS! AT MISS LOU BAR
guests can enjoy over Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa, LOCATED WITHIN 14 delicious cocktails/mocktails on the menu.
At Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica, little ones
can have big adventures at 1 of 3 Kids’ Clubs featuring a fun-filled lineup of supervised activities.
THE SIGNATURE LEVEL AT GRAND PALLADIUM LADY HAMILTON RESORT & SPA OPENED ON NOV. 1, 2024, AND IS HOME TO 3 ROOM CATEGORIES.
Let’s eat! Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica offer 7 À LA CARTE and 3 INTERNATIONAL restaurants, in addition to the 17 BARS located throughout the 2 RESORTS
GUESTSCANUPGRADETOTHESIGNATURE LEVELAT GRAND PALLADIUM LADY HAMILTON RESORT & SPA WHERE THEY HAVE ACCESS TO 1 PRIVATE POOL AND 1 PRIVATE BEACH.
Guests staying at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica can enjoy access to 5 swimming pools, offering plenty of space to relax and unwind.
For more information go to palladiumpro.com
TOP 5 REASONS TO BOOK PARADISUS PALMA REAL RESORT
Surrounded by vibrant gardens and facing white-powder beaches, the resort offers unparalleled first-class luxury with a focus on adults and MICE.
2. THE RESERVE, ADULTS ONLY SUPERIOR EXPERIENCE
At The Reserve, guests are welcomed into exclusive suites, private lounges and areas while restaurants offer curated auteur and local cuisine, along with privileged access to Offsite Destination Inclusive experiences.
3. DESTINATION INCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES
Going one step further than the traditional allinclusive offering, the resort offers carefully curated experiences both on and off the property.
4. EXQUISITE GASTRONOMY
The resort features a distinguished array of exclusive restaurants, each offering an exceptional dining experience, from refined haute cuisine to vibrant flavours of the region.
For more details, go to meliapro.melia.com/en
5. MICE & ROMANCE
With 31,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, the resort is the perfect venue for conferences, conventions and group events. It boasts 12 meeting rooms and banquet facilities, plus curated wedding collections with pre- and post-event options.
1. BEACHFRONT LUXURY
EUROPE
WestJet to launch nonstop service between Halifax and Barcelona
WestJet will be launching new nonstop service between Halifax and Barcelona this summer. Starting June 27, the seasonal route will operate four times per week between Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) as part of WestJet’s summer 2025 schedule.
The addition of Barcelona to WestJet’s summer 2025 transatlantic schedule builds on the airline’s service offering from Halifax. In 2025, the airline offers more transatlantic flights from YHZ than ever before, including new routes to Amsterdam, Paris and now Barcelona, as well as the return of popular services to London, Dublin and Edinburgh.
westjet.com
Europe remains the top summer destination, says Virtuoso
Virtuoso has pinpointed this year’s key travel trends, leveraging insights from travel advisors, preferred partners and luxury clients. One of the biggest trends is ‘Reel Roaming,’ a phenomenon fuelled by the popularity of film and television. Following the success of ‘The White Lotus’ Season 2 in October 2022, Sicily saw a 424% surge in travel bookings.
Europe remains the top summer destination for 2025. The UK
countryside saw a 173% increase in sales last year, while Portugal’s Algarve region saw a 110% rise. The Athenian Riviera is also surging in popularity, with hotel average daily rates climbing by 132%. With the ‘cool-cation’ trend, which favours places with moderate summer climates, Scandinavia, Iceland, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden have collectively seen a 263% year-over-year increase in summer bookings. And among the fastest-growing destinations in Europe is Slovenia, leading with a 473% increase in bookings for June, July and August.
virtuoso.com
Rosedale Abbey, North Yorkshire, UK
Brendan Vacations makes history with STN’s gold certification
Brendan Vacations, part of The Travel Corporation, has achieved the highest level of certification from the Sustainable Tourism Network, Ireland’s leading sustainable tourism training organization. This makes Brendan the first Irish-based tour company to earn a gold standard certification for sustainability. STN Global Certification is awarded following a review of over 80 criteria across environmental, social and economic sustainability metrics.
The Travel Corporation’s responsible travel experiences, known as MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experiences, address issues related to climate change, sustainable food production, waste reduction, diversity and inclusion, cultural preservation and wildlife protection. With Brendan Vacations, examples include a ‘Deluxe Seaweed Experience’ in County Kerry during which guests enjoy seaweedinfused tea and a guided walk to forage coastal plants.
brendanvacations.com
Air Canada expands Europe network with new Montreal-Edinburgh service
Air Canada is strengthening its European summer schedule with a new seasonal route from Montreal to Edinburgh and additional flights to Paris, Rome and Athens. The new Montreal-Edinburgh service, the only nonstop option between the two cities, will operate 3x weekly from June 26 to Sept. 7, 2025, using a Boeing 737MAX. Additionally, the airline is increasing capacity on key European routes, with Paris seeing three new weekly flights from Toronto, and Athens gaining two additional flights from Toronto, with extended service into October. Rome flights from Toronto will also be extended through the fall, reaching up to 12 weekly departures.
aircanada.com
Order Collette’s 2025-26 British Isles brochure
Collette has released its 2025-26 British Isles brochure featuring 14 tours, including four from its small-group Explorations line, limited to 24 travellers. Among the itineraries is ‘Countryside of the Emerald Isle’, where travellers visit the Aran Islands and meet a former fisherman turned goat farmer. The tour starts at $3,899 per person, with departures now available.
The new brochure is part of the ‘Collette Connection’ print service, allowing travel advisors to order materials with a personalized letter for clients. Advisors can order the brochure online or request a physical copy.
gocollette.com
Edinburgh, Scotland
Cromwell Point, County Kerry, Ireland
SLH adds new European luxury hotels to portfolio
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has added 25 new properties to its global collection in early 2025, with several standout additions across Europe. In Germany, Münchner Kindl – House of Hütter marks SLH’s debut in Munich, offering 18th-century charm and bold design in 16 luxury accommodations. Rome’s new ROMEO Roma, designed by Zaha Hadid, opened in January just steps from the Piazza del Popolo. In Latvia, the Grand Palace Hotel in Riga blends heritage architecture with Michelin-recognized cuisine, while Hotel Palau Fugit in Girona, Spain, features an 18thcentury palace setting in the historic Old Quarter.
Other notable hotel additions include Hotel Urban Madrid, home to Michelin-starred CEBO, and
Warsaw’s Nobu Hotel, a fusion of modern minimalism and local culture. There are also Schlossle Hotel in Tallinn’s Old Town, Bordeaux’s YNDO Hotel in a 19th-century mansion, Sant’Angelo Matera,
Trafalgar launches brand new river cruises
Trafalgar is entering the river cruise market with two new European itineraries launching in spring 2026. Departures start April 11, 2026, for the eight-day ‘Best of the Danube’ and the 10-day ‘Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam.’ ‘Best of the Danube’ explores Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna aboard the 128-passenger Trafalgar Reverie, and includes a ‘Be My Guest’ dinner at Austria’s oldest winery. ‘Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam’ travels from Basel to Amsterdam aboard Trafalgar Verity, visiting iconic sites like Cologne Cathedral and Strasbourg’s old town. Guests will enjoy lunch on a family farm and learn about artisanal vinegar production. agents.ttc.com
which offers an immersive stay in one of Italy’s most historic cities, and Dublin’s Dylan Hotel, known for its stylish rooms and the Ruby Room cocktail bar. slh.com
Holland America launches Europe season from Rotterdam
For the first time since 2012, Holland America Line is homeporting two ships – Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam – from its historic base in the Netherlands for the 2025 Europe cruise season. Both ships will offer cruises this season ranging from 7-27 days, covering a wide variety of destinations including Scandinavia, Iceland, the Baltics, Central Europe, the British Isles, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean.
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, Nieuw Statendam became the first Holland America Line vessel to connect to the Port of Rotterdam’s new shore power system, which is expected to enable up to 29 connections this season, saving an estimated 294 tonnes of fuel and reducing CO2 emissions by 914 tonnes.
hollandamerica.com
SLH's Grand Palace Hotel, Riga
Budapest, Hungary
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Family vacations are about having fun at Iberostar Beachfront Resorts in Mexico.
The alliance between Iberostar and IHG excludes Iberostar’s interests in Cuba.