Travel
These are the best new hotels that opened in 2024
Here at TPG, our team of travel experts and global contributors begins the year by examining the most exciting hotels scheduled to open. Then, we make it our mission to visit as many of those hotels as possible — whether they’re just down the street from TPG’s HQ in New York City or on the opposite side of the globe — to determine if they’re worthy of your hard-earned points and dollars.
But this year wasn’t quite like other years: 2024 was a year of hotel shake-ups. While we had reporters and editors first on the scene of major hotel openings (check out our exclusive first look at the Park Hyatt London River Thames), our team was also quick to report major partnership and acquisition announcements from some of our favorite brands that, in some ways, changed the landscape of hotel loyalty: Marriott won big in Las Vegas with a partnership with MGM Resorts; Hilton added Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Graduate Hotels and AutoCamp to the family; and Hyatt acquired Standard International’s hip hotel brands while also integrating Mr & Mrs Smith into World of Hyatt.
Nearly every day this year, a highly anticipated hotel started welcoming guests, or a much-loved independent hotel joined a loyalty program (here’s looking at you, Turtle Bay). Over the course of the year, our hotel experts slept in dozens of hotel beds, ate hundreds of meals, traveled thousands of miles and took countless pictures of stunning destinations to narrow our list down to the best of the best, taking into account hotel location, amenities, service, design, food and beverage programs, innovation, accessibility, and value.
From a new Hyatt ski resort out west to a Marriott near the entrance of a Komodo dragon-filled Indonesian national park, our list of the best new hotels of 2024 takes into account different types of travel styles, a range of budgets and even an all-inclusive resort and boutique hotel or two. Plus, each entry gives you the “CliffsNotes” version of how to spend the perfect day in and around each exciting property.
We hope this list inspires your next year of adventures, and know we’re already booking flights for the next batch of incredible hotels opening when the calendars flip to 2025. — Tanner Saunders, senior hotels reporter
The best new hotels in the US
Conrad Orlando
Enjoy crystal-clear water and white sand at Central Florida’s first “beach resort” that’s just a couple of miles from the Walt Disney World gates.
First impressions: The 433-room Conrad Orlando is a brand-new hotel at the end of dazzling Evermore Bay, the crown jewel of the new 1,100-acre Evermore Resort. Evermore is a destination unto itself, with the Conrad serving as the sole on-site hotel among vacation homes, flats and villas operated by Evermore.
Explore: During your days at the Conrad Orlando at Evermore Resort, you can kayak, paddleboard and swim in the blue lagoon; relax in the Conrad’s gorgeous pool; and enjoy a leisurely visit to the spa. And, since the property’s neighbor is Disney World, it’s also easy to hop on the complimentary shuttle and spend some time at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
Dine and sip: Don’t miss unique handcrafted rooftop cocktails or mocktails at Ceiba, where sophisticated Mexican cuisine is on the menu. For a more casual meal by the white sand beach, drop into Papaya Club for a poke bowl, a pupu platter featuring many of the most popular items or a mai tai.
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Evening in: For a fun night at the Conrad Orlando, start with a stroll at sunset around Evermore Bay to help work up an appetite for the great food and drinks to follow. Then, enjoy a southern Italian dinner at Sophia’s Trattoria. Everything is excellent there, but you won’t want to miss the tuna crudo starter. Finish the night off at Ceiba’s rooftop with a Pinata, the bar’s version of a pina colada featuring dried pineapple and Mezcal-soaked boba pearls, as fireworks go off at the nearby Disney theme parks.
Upgrade your stay: If you can fit a spa treatment into your budget, you likely won’t regret it here. The floral essence massage is fantastic — and make time to explore the outdoor water circuit in the spa’s water garden.
Checkout: Starting cash rates at the Conrad Orlando range from $500 to $700 per night, but you can also stay here using your Hilton Honors points or a free night certificate. Expect to redeem at least 90,000 points per night if you decide to book an award stay. — Summer Hull, senior director of content
Fairmont Breakers Long Beach
A Southern California landmark that’s been brought back to stunning life.
First impressions: Stepping into the storied lobby of this gorgeously restored 1926 Spanish Revival gem, it’s not hard to imagine Hollywood golden age celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Cary Grant swanning through these very same spaces in decades past. These days, you’re more likely to encounter well-heeled tourists and business travelers, but the halcyon haze of its midcentury heyday is still palpable.
Explore: You might simply want to spend your days sunning by the third-floor rooftop pool or creating your own customized wellness experience (a hydrating body wrap followed by an antiaging facial, perhaps?) at the spa. But if you do want to venture out, the hotel is within easy walking distance to the Aquarium of the Pacific, as well as the departure points for whale-watching cruises and the ferry to Catalina Island.
Dine and sip: The refined Italian menu at the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Nettuno, includes dishes like artichoke-stuffed ravioli, while the solariumlike La Sala serves casual fare, coffee and cocktails throughout the day and evening. Make reservations for an alfresco drink surrounded by the city skyline at the rooftop venue, Halo, when it’s set aglow at sunset.
Evening in: Take in the hotel’s history over a classic continental dinner of California wagyu beef Wellington with Bordelaise sauce or whole-roasted New Zealand John Dory drizzled with yuzu koshu beurre blanc at the top-floor Sky Room restaurant, which dates to 1938. After, slink down to Alter Ego off the lobby for a nightcap set to the strains of a live jazz combo.
Upgrade your stay: The decor in all 185 accommodations is inspired by the Pacific, with wavelike blue carpet patterning, sandy-hued furnishings and gold-toned metallic accents. For the ultimate experience, though, book the two-bedroom suite on the 12th floor to enjoy sweeping views of Long Beach Harbor and San Pedro Bay.
Checkout: Rates at the Fairmont Breakers Long Beach start at $349 per night. — Eric Rosen, director of travel content
Graduate by Hilton Princeton
The Graduate’s entry into the Ivy League gets a 4.0 at Princeton University.
First impressions: With 180 rooms, this is downtown Princeton, New Jersey’s first new hotel since before World War II, but you’ll discover nostalgia in every charming corner. Thoughtfully curated to honor the history of this university town, even the on-site eatery is named after a 1920s restaurant that once occupied the premises, Ye Tavern. The lobby’s walls are filled with Princeton University memorabilia, like historic alumni “Reunion Jackets” and the names of Princeton’s unique social groups known as eating clubs.
Explore: For fun, head to Nassau Street, right around the corner and filled with bistros, eateries and shops. The university’s historic campus is open to the public and a great place to explore or picnic. Immediately upon passing through FitzRandolph Gate, you’re greeted by Nassau Hall, an imposing building that Alexander Hamilton shot with a cannon.
Related reading: Graduate Hotels officially joins Hilton Honors
Dine and sip: Grab a coffee, cocktail or dinner in the hotel’s only dining option: Ye Tavern. But seriously, check out the bar where talented mixologists create exciting new menus quarterly. When we visited, the theme was “Princeton Through the Years,” highlighting popular drinks from 1825, 1925 and today.
Evening in: While the hotel itself doesn’t have much in terms of on-site amenities like a spa, it makes up for that by being the life of the party in town. While we were there we were told about live music and fun events like a drag show that will raise money for Porchfest, a community music festival where local musicians perform on neighborhood porches.
Upgrade your stay: Standard rooms are very spacious, but if you’re looking for an upgrade, King One Bedroom Suites have a nice seating area that is separate from the bedroom.
Checkout: Rates start at $280 or 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night. — Caroline English, director of social media and brand
Grand Hyatt Deer Valley
Enjoy the country’s newest slopeside hotel as Deer Valley has its largest-ever expansion that will more than double its skiable terrain — and it’s all right at the front door of the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley in the resort’s new East Village.
First impressions: The all-new, expansive Grand Hyatt Deer Valley has 436 high-end guest rooms, suites and residences. It is primed to become a centerpiece of Deer Valley’s new East Village expansion, the first all-new ski village to be created in the last 40 years.
Explore: If it’s winter when you visit the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, then you’re all but obligated to try out the 300 newly open skiable areas at Deer Valley for the 2024-2025 season. As a bonus, getting to the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley is easy compared to other ski resorts, as it’s just 40 minutes away from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – a drive that is notably devoid of stoplights.
Dine and sip: The early bird gets the fresh tracks at a ski mountain, and, luckily, at the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, Double Blacks will be open early and ready to get you on your way with a coffee from Park City Coffee Roasters, along with breakfast sandwiches and cronuts. For dinner, you can check out the hotel’s signature restaurant, Remington Hall, which showcases views of the Jordanelle Reservoir and serves rustic American cuisine.
Evening in: After a day out on the slopes, stretch your legs in the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley’s heated outdoor pool and three oversized hot tubs before popping into the Remington Lounge for a specialty cocktail.
Checkout: Cash rates at the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley vary pretty widely depending on the season. They start around $300 in the offseason and cross over the $1,000 mark during peak-season dates. You can instead use between 21,000 and 29,000 World of Hyatt points per night to cover your stay — doing so will help you avoid paying the property’s daily resort fee. — Summer Hull
Hotel Bardo
Coastal Italy meets Savannah, Georgia’s Low Country at this bright and airy property that is part hotel and part private members club.
First impressions: This 149-key hotel on Forsyth Park is the first from a new brand run by hospitality and real estate firm Left Lane. The red-brick facade of the 19th-century Romanesque Revival building may be historic, but the interiors are wholly modern with pistachio-colored walls and textured blonde wood headboards in the rooms and pink- and white-striped umbrellas at the pool. Locals are welcomed into the fold at Club Bardo, a social club that offers members exclusive access to a private lounge and the pool and fitness center.
Explore: Take a walking tour to discover Savannah’s fascinating history, or check out the contemporary art at the SCAD Museum of Art. For a leisurely afternoon, borrow tennis gear or lawn games from the hotel and head to Forsyth Park.
Dine and sip: For coastal Italian fare with handmade pasta, visit Saint Bibiana for dinner or weekend brunch. Poolside Bar Bibi serves pizza and crudo during the day for something more casual. The hotel’s lobby bar, Green Room, is the place for morning coffee or evening cocktails.
Evening in: For a hands-on meal, sign up for an evening class at the Cooking School at Saint Bibiana. Afterward, head upstairs to Club Bardo for live music from a roster of Savannah’s best musicians.
Upgrade your stay: After a complimentary yoga or pilates class at Saltgrass, the hotel’s spa and fitness facility, relax with a Botanist’s Remedy massage using hot aromatic-infused towels and herbal oil blends.
Checkout: Rates at Hotel Bardo start at $245 per night. — Lyndsey Matthews, senior travel editor
Longfellow Hotel
Portland, Maine’s hotel scene welcomes an understated and sustainability-forward new darling.
First impressions: With sustainability and community front of mind, the Longfellow Hotel offers locals and guests a pared-back but sophisticated retreat to dine, unwind and rest one’s head in artfully curated spaces inspired by Maine’s rugged landscape and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Sustainability efforts, like limited use of single-use plastic and stations on each floor where guests can pick out toiletries on an as-needed basis, are threaded throughout. Thanks to Hilton’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this boutique hotel can also be booked using Hilton Honors points.
Explore: Located in the heart of Portland on buzzing Congress Street, dozens of bars, restaurants and shops are just a stone’s throw away. Consider a lunch of ramen and pork buns at local favorite Pai Men, or mosy slightly further down the road to Portland’s Old Port for the freshest seafood at award-winning restaurants like Scales, Eventide (don’t miss the oyster selection) and Central Provisions.
Dine and sip: With two on-site restaurants — Twinflower Cafe for breakfast (which also offers room service) and the salon-style Five of Clubs for lunch and dinner — farm-to-table dishes crafted with locally sourced Maine ingredients are aplenty at Longfellow. But the real star of the show is the gleaming Five of Clubs bar, a space plucked from the stuff of hotel lobby bar dreams, positioned prettily under a gallery wall and massive mirror, creating an ambience that’s equal parts cozy and elegant.
Evening in: After sharing a few small plates at Five of Clubs (get the sourdough with compound butter, the Siberian caviar with tarragon egg salad and caramelized onion creme fraiche, and the kale Caesar salad), sip a cocktail among the carefully curated art selection from the comfort of sumptuous couches before retiring to your suite for endless cups of herbal tea and a steaming bubble bath in your soaking tub.
Upgrade your stay: The can’t-miss booking at Astraea spa is the sauna experience. It includes an infrared sauna housed in a Nordic-inspired relaxation room replete with a rain shower, a wash closet, plush robes, a spacious seating area, plentiful organic toiletries for freshening up and full instructions on how to cycle through a traditional Scandinavian sauna routine. Rates start at $65 for 45 minutes.
Checkout: Rates at the Longfellow Hotel start at $169 or 58,000 Hilton Honors points per night. — Ellie Nan Storck, managing editor, hotels
Pixar Place Hotel
After receiving a much-needed refresh, this Pixar-themed hotel offers delightful decor and fun surprises, all within walking distance of Disneyland’s theme parks.
First impressions: The Pixar Place Hotel, formerly Paradise Pier Hotel, is one of Disneyland’s three on-site hotels. The 15-story, 479-room hotel pays homage to every film in the Pixar catalog, including “Toy Story,” “Up,” “Inside Out” and “Ratatouille.”
Explore: The Pixar Place Hotel has a dedicated security checkpoint and entrance to Disney California Adventure Park, which is less than a five-minute walk from the hotel. You don’t have to leave the property for some Disney fun, though. Throughout the day, you may stumble upon Joe Gardner from “Soul” tickling the ivories or meet Bing Bong from “Inside Out.”
Dine and sip: The Pixar Place Hotel has three dining outlets. Great Maple, A Modern American Eatery is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, serving modern American cuisine like buttermilk fried chicken and maple bacon doughnuts. Guests can also dine at The Sketch Pad Cafe, a quick-service eatery where you can get your morning coffee, pastries, snacks and other grab-and-go items. At the pool, guests can grab quick bites like pretzels, sandwiches, salads and burgers.
Evening in: When you return in the evening, you can view Disneyland’s nighttime fireworks from the hotel’s rooftop viewing deck. It even plays music from the show while you watch.
Checkout: Room rates at the Pixar Place Hotel start around $400 per night for a standard room. Suites are also available beginning at $1,030 per night. If you want to use points to pay for your stay, you can often find Disneyland hotels in the Capital One and Bilt travel portals. You can also potentially save money by booking a stay using discounted Disney gift cards. — Tarah Chieffi, senior writer
Regent Santa Monica Beach
Regent’s return to North America makes quite the splash on the Southern California coast.
First impressions: This is an entry-level room? Calling it spacious doesn’t do it justice when each 720-square-foot starter accommodation here is more akin to a one-bedroom suite with ample space to unwind and enjoy the complimentary (and personalized) minibar and oceanfront views.
Explore: Stroll the Santa Monica Pier or the Santa Monica Ocean Front Walk for sunrise or sunset cardio with a view. Those who prefer to shop till they drop for their exercise will find plenty of boutiques and fashion brands to pop into on the nearby Third Street Promenade.
Dine and sip: The best table in the house (especially during golden hour at sunset) is found on the patio at chef Michael Mina’s Egyptian-inspired Orla. Splurge on the “My Egypt Experience” for a true taste of the Mediterranean over several courses of mezze, grilled meats and fish, and decadent desserts and wines. Those looking for more casual grab-and-go fare can check out lifestyle maven Ayesha Curry’s Sweet July Cafe.
Evening in: After a memorable alfresco meal at Orla, make time for a martini or Negroni at Orla Bar, a centerpiece of the Regent’s atrium lobby that makes for a distinctly maritime milieu thanks to yacht-style plank flooring and brass fixtures that will make you want to call your interior decorator at once to start discussing your next kitchen glow-up.
Upgrade your stay: Save a few hours — or an entire day — for a visit to the Regent’s Guerlain Wellness Spa. The 10,000-square-foot facility features 12 treatment rooms for a variety of experiences that incorporate the French luxury skin care brand’s products. Saunas, steam rooms, plunge pools and a post-treatment Champagne room are the many cherries atop this self-care sundae.
Checkout: Rates at Regent Santa Monica Beach start at $1,100 or 201,000 IHG One Rewards points per night. — Cameron Sperance, senior hotels reporter
Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Head to this sparkling new high-rise for light-filled rooms away from Waikiki’s hordes of tourists.
First impressions: Brand-new construction in an exciting and still undiscovered part of Hawaii’s capital city makes the Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa a welcome addition to the crowded hotel scene. This hotel has 299 rooms and residences for your choice of accommodation, and you can earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for stays.
Explore: While the hotel is not near Waikiki’s main drag, it is in an up-and-coming area of the Ala Moana neighborhood and sits just across the street from a giant mall with some of the best shopping in Honolulu. There’s also a shuttle if you want access to the beach, and it’s a lot closer to the airport than many other resorts.
Dine and sip: A pool bar called Sway is staffed by friendly bartenders, and there’s a Lamill Coffee outlet in the lobby, but the real star is Mara, a restaurant and bar where you’ll want a reservation, as there’s usually a crowd. The venue serves up tasty Mediterranean fare made with the very freshest Hawaiian ingredients.
Evening in: Spend your afternoon at the hotel’s Sky Deck for a swim and a workout in the well-equipped gym followed by some time in the Japanese-style spa and sauna. Dinner at Mara is a must during your visit. (Order the chermoula-marinated prawns for a kick.)
Upgrade your stay: Marriott elite members and those who pay for a club-level room can access the Coral Club Lounge for treats throughout the day. If you desire more space, book one of the residences (starting at $754 per night) for a full kitchen, a washer and a dryer, and a large living room.
Checkout: Rates at the Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa start at $378 or 55,000 Marriott Bonovy points per night. — Clint Henderson, managing editor, news
The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
The St. Regis has arrived at South Florida’s Gulf Coast barrier islands, bringing with it a taste of high luxury that will take your Florida beach vacation to the next level.
First impressions: Marking Marriott’s 9,000th property, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is celebrated as one of the largest developments in the area in over 50 years, with 168 rooms and 18 acres of premier beachfront property. Its prominence is further highlighted by a laundry list of high-end amenities and, of course, the brand’s signature butler service, establishing the property as a standout destination in its own right.
Explore: Out and about in Sarasota, visitors can immerse themselves in nature at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, embark on a kayaking adventure, visit neighboring islands to soak up some sun or immerse themselves in the historical and artistic allure of The Ringling, an art museum with over 31 galleries, including an exhibit focusing on the Ringling Bros., all in a pink Renaissance-style palace. And don’t worry about transportation; the property offers luxurious ways to get around in style, including a complimentary Bentley rental.
Dine and sip: At The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, Riva offers fresh homemade pasta and an enticing brunch menu, while Aura is perfect for vibrant poolside dining (think: freshly made guacamole and refreshing cocktails). For stunning ocean views, visit the rooftop lounge, Oshen, for sushi and cocktails. Or, head to CW Prime Steakhouse, which elevates the traditional steakhouse concept with premium steaks and seafood cooked on a Josper grill, complemented by a unique speakeasy-style spirits room.
Evening in: For a true night in, guests should take the time to sample the in-room dining offerings. Take the evening to unwind after a day in the sun in your lavish marble bathroom, and be sure to take advantage of the deep soaking tub or rain shower. After you unwind, slip into your luxurious St. Regis bathrobe and order in-room dining, which will be delivered with the same level of service and quality you would expect at one of the restaurants. Enjoy your meal on the balcony to take in the sounds of the waves and views of the starry sky.
Upgrade your stay: Embrace the spirit of Florida with a private snorkeling experience in the private lagoon featuring a swim among tropical fish and stingrays. For a touch of indulgence, lounge in one of the luxurious cabanas by one of the multiple pools or winding river for an unforgettable retreat.
Checkout: Rates at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort start from $930 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. — Lauren Wassum, senior editor, sponsored content
The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel
Corinthia Hotels resurrects an iconic New York hotel that’s hosted celebrities and dignitaries for decades.
First impressions: An Upper East Side institution dating back to the 1920s, The Surrey has lived many lives. If those walls could talk, they might just spill the secrets of previous guests, like John F. Kennedy and Bette Davis. Or, they might tell the story of a sweeping remodel of the nearly 100-year-old hotel and its 100 charming rooms designed by the legendary Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. Though bold and new, Corinthia’s first foray into the United States still feels timeless, classic and distinctly of the Upper East Side.
Explore: Though the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the most famous museums in the world, is just blocks away, the hotel actually has its own collection of art created by New York artists dating back to the 1920s and curated by Paris-based Visto Gallery. Keep the New York focus going and head over to the Museum of the City of New York to learn more about how New York became the Greatest City in the World.
Dine and sip: If there’s one thing Upper East Siders love, it’s Miami. So it makes perfect sense that Miky and Leticia Herrera-Grendene decided to open the first New York outpost of Miami’s beloved Italian restaurant Casa Tua in The Surrey. In addition to the restaurant, which is filled with gorgeous photography, The Lounge by Casa Tua serves coffee, cocktails and light bites throughout the day. For locals and those with deep pockets, a second-floor private membership club is also serviced by the Miami hot spot.
Evening in: After a long day of museum hopping or shopping down Madison Avenue, retreat to The Surrey for a late-afternoon spa treatment at The Surrey Spa by Sisley Paris. Rejuvenated and relaxed, head to The Lounge by Casa Tua for martinis, music and great people-watching. If you’re lucky enough to snag a table in Casa Tua’s main dining room (reservations are a must), enjoy a mix of Italian and Mediterranean dishes with a side course of celebrity spotting.
Upgrade your stay: Suites at The Surrey are inspired by specific bridges found in Central Park and range in size. The Greywacke Suite, a stunning one-bedroom suite, comes with a beautiful living room area complete with a glass-enclosed fireplace, a dining table and one of the most beautiful, white-marble-clad bathrooms in town. Guests in suites also have access to butler service to help with any and every need.
Checkout: Rates at The Surrey start at $955 per night. — Tanner Saunders
Thompson Palm Springs
This funky art-filled hotel highlights its natural surroundings and offers a calm desert villa atmosphere in the heart of Palm Springs, California.
First impressions: The Thompson Palm Springs’ understated white exterior blends into the downtown strip, so guests may be surprised by the bright colors, textures and sculptures hidden within its walls. The hotel mixes the classic Palm Springs midcentury modern vibe with an open-air, Mediterranean feel. Outdoor cactus-lined walkways connect the 168 guest rooms, and there’s a separate 42-room, adults-only section currently under construction.
Explore: Guests can easily walk (or ride one of the hotel’s complimentary bikes) to the restaurants, vintage stores, galleries and theaters of downtown. If you flash your Thompson keycard, you can score buy-one, get-one tickets to the Palm Springs Art Museum or get a discount at the BMW Performance Driving School. Outdoorsy types can find plenty of hikes in the surrounding area or drive about an hour to Joshua Tree National Park.
Dine and sip: Eastern Mediterranean restaurant Lola Rose serves delicious plates of seafood, kebabs and shareable spreads in an indoor-outdoor lounge space with funky decor. If you dine there over the weekend, you can enjoy a live DJ performance as well. Meanwhile, the lobby’s Hall tasting room offers a menu of Napa Valley wines, and when it opens, the hotel’s Bar Issi will be the place for cocktails and small plates.
Evening in: There are plenty of bars and nightlife options around the hotel. Head to Canopy Wine Lounge for a cozy drink, Copa Nightclub for dancing or Toucans Tiki Lounge and Cabaret for a drag show. The Thompson house car will drop guests off anywhere within a 3-mile radius.
Checkout: Rates at the Thompson Palm Springs start around $450 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night. — Mackenzie Roche, content operations editor
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Feel the magic of Disney as you watch fireworks light up the sky from the comfort of your room’s balcony at this reimagined Waldorf Astoria.
First impressions: This recently renovated resort exudes star power and offers exemplary service that you’ll experience as soon as the friendly bellman ushers you to the lobby, where you’ll be wowed by its soaring arched ceiling and Waldorf Astoria signature clock tower. With 502 rooms and 171 suites, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando pulls off an oasis vibe — and that’s important. Trust us, you’ll need some true rest and relaxation after a day at any of Orlando’s amusement parks.
Explore: The resort is just minutes from Walt Disney World, and free coaches shuttle guests to and from the theme parks and the Disney Springs entertainment complex. Staying at this hotel gives guests 30-minute early entry to all four Disney parks. Get there as the rope drops, and you’ll be well positioned to stay ahead of the crowds all day. Or, stay on the property grounds to enjoy the pool or expansive lazy river next door at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.
Dine and sip: Even if you never order room service, this is the place to do it. (I’m still dreaming about the incredible spread wheeled into our suite.) If you prefer breakfast in a dining room, head to Oscar’s on the ground floor for its lovely ambience; you’ll find a selection of buffet, a la carte and grab-and-go options. The pool bar and restaurant, Aquamarine, and The Clubhouse Grille are go-to’s at lunchtime, or have a light bite and cocktail at the Peacock Alley lobby bar.
Evening in: Take it from me: If you don’t dine anywhere else on property, you must get a reservation for dinner at Bull & Bear Steakhouse. It’s one of the best restaurants in Florida with exquisite steak, seafood and poultry offerings. Afterward, take a stroll across the resort’s grounds.
Upgrade your stay: For a splurge, upgrade to a room or suite with a fireworks view (thank me later!).
Checkout: Rooms at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando start at 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night or around $320 per night for certain off-peak dates. Expect higher rates during the high season and around the holidays. — Andrea M. Rotondo, director of content operations
Warren Street Hotel
New York’s trendiest neighborhood welcomes a boutique hotel that exudes charm and downtown cool.
First impressions: Set slightly away from the tourist hot spots of downtown Manhattan, the Warren Street Hotel is a bastion of style and design (think: an impressive array of patterns, textures and colors that somehow just work together) from dynamic hotelier duo Tim and Kit Kemp (also of New York’s Crosby Street Hotel). From a locals-adored restaurant to the moody Drawing Room with an honesty bar, this hotel feels about as fresh as they come.
Explore: Take to lower Manhattan by foot, if possible, and hit the highlights: the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Battery (for Statue of Liberty views) and Wall Street. Make sunset reservations at nearby Overstory, a 64th-floor bar considered one of the best in the world, and take a load off while taking in the sky-high views.
Dine and sip: To drink and dine, head to Warren Street Bar & Restaurant, a colorful and eclectic neighborhood brasserie serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in one of the city’s most playful dining rooms. You can also grab drinks at the Drawing Room (just write down what you took!).
Evening in: For dinner, book a table at Warren Street Bar & Restaurant and enjoy a seasonal menu featuring knockout classics and seasonal dishes that are sure to delight every type of eater. Afterward, cozy up in the library with a glass of wine to read a book or wax poetic about the Greatest City in the World with your fellow travelers.
Upgrade your stay: Having a room in New York City with outdoor space is rare. Having outdoor space with an exquisitely manicured garden and seating area is nearly unheard of. If that’s what you’re after, book the Warren Terrace Suite, perfectly placed under the World Trade Center.
Checkout: Entry-level rates start around $795 per night. — Tanner Saunders
The best new hotels in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and South America
Casa Lucia
History and luxury merge in this sophisticated hotel that makes it easy to see why Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the Paris of South America.
First impressions: Walking up the charming tree-lined Calle Arroyo in Buenos Aires’ trendy Recoleta neighborhood, the historic Edificio Mihanovich building towers over everything around. Upon entering the greenhouse-style lobby, guests are welcomed by Argentinian artist Cristían Mohaded’s lighting sculpture inspired by Argentina’s flag, just one of several art pieces by local creators. Guests can spend time in the restaurant or bar by the lobby, at the spa and pool downstairs, or upstairs in one of 142 rooms with soaring views.
Explore: Buenos Aires is a massive city, but focusing on the Recoleta neighborhood surrounding the hotel will bring you past plenty of fashionable cafes, boutiques and restaurants. Right across the street from the hotel is one of the World’s 50 Best Bars: Floreria Atlantico, a speakeasy tucked underneath a flower shop. Head west to visit the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón and many other famous Argentines are buried, surrounded by a beautiful park. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Biblioteca Nacional Mariano Moreno are also close by.
Dine and sip: The hotel has two dining and drinking venues off the lobby on either side: The equestrian-themed Cantina restaurant, serving three meals daily and focusing on local Argentinian food, and Le Club Bacan, a stylish cocktail bar with dark lighting and moody paintings. Both have lengthy Argentinian wine menus that pull from the hotel’s large cellar downstairs.
Evening in: Casa Lucia always has something going on, whether it’s a bandoneon sunset concert, wine tasting, art talk or pisco workshop; just check out the hotel’s monthly calendar. Or, head to Le Club Bacan for live music any night of the week.
Upgrade your stay: After a long day of exploring the city, book a foot reflexology session in the spa and leave time to luxuriate in the sauna and the heated indoor pool. There’s also a yoga class offered every Sunday morning.
Checkout: Rates at Casa Lucia start from $670 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night. — Devorah Lev-Tov, TPG contributor
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol
It turns out another luxury beach resort was exactly what Cabo needed.
First impressions: Occupying pride of place in a golf-centric enclave along Mexico’s Los Cabos coast, this new Four Seasons embodies the idea of a modern hacienda with whitewashed, tile-roofed buildings; flower-lined paths; and artfully placed luminarios, all inspired by the country’s traditional Pueblos Magicos. With just 96 rooms, suites and casitas, plus 61 residences (many with their own plunge pools), guests are unlikely to feel crowded, but there are still plenty of secluded areas for lounging sprinkled around the property.
Explore: The thumping nightclubs and bustling marina of Cabo San Lucas lie 20 minutes to the west by car while the gallery-filled streets of colonial San Jose del Cabo are 20 minutes to the east. In short, you can’t ask for a better location than this. That said, you might just want to stick around for a snorkel along the house reef since this is one of Cabo’s only swimmable beaches. Or, spend a few hours lounging around one of three enormous pools.
Dine and sip: Six restaurants and bars, two of which are under the aegis of celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, dot the resort. There are Palmerio for gorgeous coastline views and Mediterranean fare, Coraluz for coastal Mexican cuisine and Sora for alfresco izakaya-style bar bites and libations like a smoked Old-Fashioned.
Evening in: Linger over a creative menu of Nikkei dishes (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) at chef Sandoval’s seaside Cayao restaurant, then order drinks directly to one of the garden-set fire pits just below Palmerio so you can wind down to the sounds of the tide coming in.
Upgrade your stay: Spend an hour (or several) at the hotel’s sprawling Tierra Mar Spa, where you can indulge in one of the ocean-inspired massages, like the deep-tissue Azul Profundo, or a facial performed with 111Skin products.
Checkout: Rates at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol start at $850 per night. If you book through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts, you’ll receive complimentary daily breakfast for two, a statement credit to use on the property and guaranteed late checkout, among other perks. — Eric Rosen
Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort
A year-long renovation transformed this beachfront property into Marriott’s first-ever branded all-inclusive resort — and the best new all-inclusive resort in the 2024 TPG Awards.
First impressions: Marriott’s renovation of this 450-room resort in the heart of Cancun, Mexico’s Hotel Zone transformed it into an all-inclusive with a sleek new design and over a dozen restaurants. It also introduced the first Camp Club at Marriott for kids, making it a relaxing destination for multigenerational trips that will keep the whole family well fed and entertained.
Explore: Like most all-inclusive resorts, you could spend all day at the beach or the property’s two pools and water park. But if you choose to venture out, the resort can arrange day trips to nearby sites like Isla Mujeres or the Tulum Mayan Ruins for an extra fee.
Dine and sip: The all-inclusive package covers meals and drinks at over a dozen restaurants and bars on-site. Highlights include Casa Madre’s Mexican breakfast buffet, poolside taco carts, Mo’s Burgers and Shakes’ classic American diner fare, Ono Teppanyaki’s hibachi show and Hana Polynesian Grill’s tiki bar.
Evening in: After enjoying an interactive hibachi dinner at Ono Teppanyaki, head to the resort’s main plaza to partake in one of the nightly activities like salsa dancing or a Mexican carnival.
Upgrade your stay: Caribbean Suites offer oceanfront balcony views and a separate living room with a foldout sofa for children.
Checkout: Rates at Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort start at $436 or 53,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. — Lyndsey Matthews
Six Senses La Sagesse
Six Senses finally arrives in the Caribbean.
First impressions: Six Senses La Sagesse is set on an idyllic, calm lagoon where your eyes can dance between rolling green hills and crystalline waters — and a series of restaurants, bars and entertainment hubs, along with 56 pool suites and 15 villas, all designed to look like a quaint Caribbean village.
Explore: Like any Six Senses property, this location provides guests with plenty to do — or not do. For those looking to do, join a resort-led yoga class followed by a hike to a natural pool and waterfall, or head out on a tour of Grenada’s famed rum factories. For those who’d simply rather not do, post up at your private pool or on the resort’s beach.
Dine and sip: Food here focuses on Caribbean and South American flavors; dining options include an all-day farm-to-table restaurant, a poolside restaurant that converts into a speakeasy-like cocktail bar at night, an ocean-facing signature restaurant with a raw bar and regional favorites, and a coffee shop.
Evening in: Start the evening with a sunset cruise where you’ll learn how to pair chocolate with local rums. Next, head to SeaFire for a meal of local-caught spiny lobster, plantains and mahi-mahi with a side of ocean waves gently crashing in the distance. Close the evening out with nightcaps at Panquai before returning to your pool suite for a moonlit plunge.
Upgrade your stay: Dealing with luggage is never fun. How about you simply don’t? Partnering with Luggage Free, this Six Senses will have your bags picked up at home and waiting for you on vacation so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Checkout: Rates start at $700 or 140,000 IHG One Rewards points per night. — Tanner Saunders
Soho House Sao Paulo
Soho House enters South America with a new hotel breathing life into a stunningly restored corner of Sao Paulo.
First impressions: Housed in a former Italianate hospital and part of the innovative Cidade Matarazzo urban redevelopment complex, Soho House Sao Paolo seamlessly blends Brazilian modernist art and decor with historic 20th-century architecture. It is a sophisticated and energetic 32-key addition to the hospitality scene of this bustling Brazilian metropolis.
Explore: The House’s prime location in the upscale Bela Vista neighborhood, with its lush vegetation and plentiful shops and restaurants, puts you in close proximity to Avenida Paulista, where you’ll find Brazil’s primary art museum, MASP, home to South America’s largest collection of Western art. After browsing through over 10,000 artworks ranging from eras of antiquity through the 21st century, don’t miss lunch at the museum’s cafe, A Baianeira, helmed by chef Manuelle Ferraz. Here, you can enjoy authentic Brazilian dishes like pork stew, plantain moqueca or baiao de dois.
Dine and sip: Members can enjoy leisurely meals, including modern Brazilian specialties — like pao de queijo and moqueca or classic fare like a Caesar salad, burger or handmade pasta — on the property’s sun-filled, open-air terrace or inside at the fashionable club seating area. The hotel features two bars on either side of the first floor, ideal spots to sip and socialize, plus a forthcoming rooftop pool bar.
Evening in: After enjoying dinner in the courtyard, head inside to one of the two bars — where the local elites like to see and be seen – to enjoy the hotel’s spin on a local caipirinha cocktail, catch one of the frequent DJ events or play a game of billiards with other guests.
Checkout: Soho House Sao Paulo is currently only available to Soho House members for bookings. Membership rates at Soho House Sao Paulo start at 8,150 Brazilian real ($1,403) per year or 5,175 Brazilian real ($891) for members under age 27. — Ellie Nan Storck
The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai
Marriott’s buzzworthy brand finally lands in Mexico.
First impressions: Laid-back beach vibes and jungle-chic decadence mingle in the lushly landscaped greenery and stark architectural lines rising out of the mangroves along the Yucatan’s Caribbean coast. Come here to relax, but don’t forget to pack your see-and-be-seen fashions.
Explore: The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai sits within a secluded gated community, so it’s more convenient to scope out the bars and restaurants of the neighboring St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya and Etereo, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, than heading into town. But Playa del Carmen to the south is the closest city, just under a 30-minute drive away.
Dine and sip: As you might expect, The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai doesn’t skimp on trendy bars and eateries. Kitchen is an all-day restaurant where you can start your day with an “encamisado” egg folded inside a tortilla with a smoky sikil pak sauce. Ki’is is the resort’s high-end Mexican restaurant, while So’ol Beach Club is where you can look fabulous on the sandy shoreline munching on tuna crudo. Fear not if you’re in the mood for a taco, as you can order one at Pool Bar.
Evening in: While a decadent, multicourse meal at Ki’is followed by a mezcal or two at the lofty Lobby Bar is our idea of a great night out, keep an eye out for DJ sets at So’ol Beach Club. It’s the kind of place where the party just gets started when most of us are heading to bed.
Upgrade your stay: Gather your 10 (or so) closest friends and book out the Sky Rooftop Villa, a 26,900-square-foot penthouse that’s among the largest accommodations of its kind in North America, with five bedrooms, a huge infinity pool, an expansive private deck with two DJ booths and a sunken garden space, plus the best views at the resort.
Checkout: Rates at The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai start at $500 or 70,400 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. — Cameron Sperance
The best new hotels in Europe
Casa Monti Roma
The oldest neighborhood in Rome welcomes the city’s trendiest new hotel.
First impressions: If “The Golden Girls” left Miami for Rome, you’d find them at Casa Monti Roma, an eclectic hotel where patterns and textures abound and bold wallpapers are paired with flamboyant carpets. It all works together to serve guests a real feast for the eyes. Rome is a city full of ancient surprises — and Casa Monti Roma is a fresh new hotel where you’ll feel right at home.
Explore: Step out of the hotel and you’re two left turns and about a 10-minute walk from the nearly 2,000-year-old Colosseum — just don’t skip out on Rome’s best vintage stores and trendy boutiques dotting the neighborhood along the way. Often ignored for more touristy neighborhoods, Monti’s vine-covered walls, cobblestone streets and centuries of history are worthy of a day of exploring on their own.
Dine and sip: Welcome drinks await during check-in at the Casa Monti Bar off the lobby, as do morning pastries and coffee. A rooftop bar stays open until the late hours, while lunch and dinner at Casa Monti Ristorante consist of a seasonal Roman menu. Just don’t be surprised by slight regional variations from Silician chef Umberto Tuccio.
Evening in: After a busy day shopping in Monti or battling throngs of tourists at the major museums, head to the rooftop bar for a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the Eternal City — just make reservations in advance. After dinner and a drink (or two), take to the city’s ancient streets at night, as Rome’s most beautiful landmarks are even more gorgeous lit up.
Upgrade your stay: Having a private outdoor space in Rome is magical — especially in the morning, when the sounds of the waking city are like music while you enjoy a cup of espresso. Casa Monti Roma has a handful of accommodations with terraces, from deluxe rooms to a three-bedroom apartment.
Checkout: Rooms start around $375 per night. — Tanner Saunders
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London
A luxurious new residential-style stay in one of London’s swankiest neighborhoods.
First impressions: Occupying a corner of tony Hanover Square, the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London manages to both blend in and stand out thanks to its innovative brick-and-metal facade and discreet entrance. Step inside, though, and you won’t know where to look first, whether it’s the bespoke Vivienne Westwood-designed fan featuring vibrant colors reflected throughout the hotel or the floating green marble staircase down to celebrity chef Akira Back’s eponymous restaurant.
Explore: Some of London’s best shopping is nearby on Oxford and Regent streets, the gracious boutiques of Marylebone are a short stroll north and the humming bars and restaurants of Soho are a quick jaunt to the east.
Dine and sip: Start your day with a death-by-sugar hazelnut gianduja croffle at Akira Back, then return for a lunch of Japanese-Korean signatures like the crudo tuna “pizza” with umami aioli, shiso and truffle oil on a crispy tuile crust.
Evening in: Reserve your space at the fine dining bolthole Dosa early since there are just 14 seats. Then, end your night with a specialty cocktail like the Old-Fashioned-inspired Peanutful accompanied by DJ sets at ABar Lounge, or zip up to the top floor for drinks at the ABar Rooftop lounge with 360-degree views of London’s skyline.
Upgrade your stay: Be sure to set aside some time in the subterranean wellness center, where a dip in the 82-foot pool feels like swimming among the stars thanks to its dramatically designed lighting. You can customize your spa treatment (mix-and-match massages and facials, for instance), incorporating innovative product lines like Seed to Skin.
Checkout: Rates at the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London start at $930 per night. Book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to enjoy benefits like complimentary daily breakfast for two, a statement credit to use on the property and guaranteed late checkout. — Eric Rosen
Palazzo Talia
An erstwhile school near the Trevi Fountain has been converted into a cinematic fever dream by one of Italy’s greatest filmmakers.
First impressions: The first hotel designed by Luca Guadagnino, the filmmaker behind “Call Me By Your Name” and “I Am Love,” Palazzo Talia expresses a bold, colorful vision that represents the best of contemporary Italian design. Handmade tiles, graphic rugs and a massive vintage Murano chandelier are a few of the special touches that play off the 16th-century building’s original frescoes and floors. The former classrooms have been transformed into 25 rooms and suites designed by Mia Home Design Gallery and Laura Feroldi Studio.
Explore: This member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a stone’s throw from the Trevi Fountain and a few blocks from the Spanish Steps. This part of Rome is known for shopping, and you’ll find everything from fast fashion to haute couture a few minutes on foot from the hotel.
Dine and sip: Mirrored tiles clad the intimate Bar della Musa, which serves creative and classic cocktails, plus light meals and snacks. Tramae, which has seating in a verdant courtyard garden, is an ode to coastal Italian cuisine and serves raw seafood platters, lemon risotto and eggplant parmigiana.
Evening in: Start with an aperitivo at Bar della Musa, where from 5:30 until 8:30 p.m., you can indulge in a 25-euro ($26) oyster happy hour. Or, pair your cocktail with gourmet bites like an amatriciana suppli and cacio e pepe potato chips. Then, saunter over to Tramae for a plate of lemon risotto or spaghetti alla nerano with zucchini and basil in the garden.
Upgrade your stay: Book the Talia Suite — the only room designed by studiolucaguadagnino — and the spectacular Aula Magna will be closed off for your exclusive use and combined with a junior suite and grand junior suite for a truly incredible stay. Reclining on a geometric pink or red armchair while surrounded by ancient marble busts, original ceiling frescoes and a wooden choir will no doubt make you feel like you’ve stepped into a film.
Checkout: Rates at Palazzo Talia start at $741 or 120,000 Hilton Honors points per night. — Laura Itzkowitz, TPG contributor
Park Hyatt London River Thames
High design and luxe amenities are both available for a reasonable award rate in the British capital.
First impressions: The Park Hyatt’s two gleaming, new towers are the clearest sign that this once-overlooked part of London not far from the redeveloped Battersea Power Station is quickly coming into its own. Stepping inside, it’s hard not to be impressed by the hotel’s unparalleled collection of modern art (and the delicious cocktails at the Nine Elms Lounge & Bar).
Explore: While the location is not ideal for London sightseeing, it is close to major transportation hubs and has easy access to nearby walkways along the Thames for riverside strolls.
Dine and sip: The lobby-level Nine Elms Kitchen and Terrace serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with contemporary British menus inspired by London’s diversity, including everything from crunchy flatbreads to chicken satay and gin-cured salmon. Yu Ge is the newly opened Cantonese restaurant, and there’s also a swanky space called the Tamise Wine Library and Tea Lounge where patrons can linger over opulent afternoon tea and select from the list of over 1,000 wines.
Evening in: Weary travelers may be best served by indulging in some “me time” at the hotel’s full-floor wellness center, where they can enjoy a deep tissue massage at the luxurious spa and a hot sauna session, among other relaxing experiences. Follow that with a dip in one of the largest hotel swimming pools in London, then cap off the evening with room service from the extensive 24-hour menu in your spacious city- or river-view room. Each starts at just under 300 square feet.
Upgrade your stay: Book the high-floor, 1,851-square-foot presidential suite for ultimate views of some of London’s most famous landmarks, your own private elevator, a freestanding bathtub that feels like it floats above the river and massive living and dining rooms.
Checkout: Rates at the Park Hyatt London River Thames start at $633 or 25,000 to 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night. For real value, reserve one of 34 suites starting at 60,000 World of Hyatt points per night. — Clint Henderson
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
A 15th-century castle is reborn on the banks of a picturesque Austrian lake.
First impressions: Europe’s newest Rosewood is a modern hotel steeped in history. In fact, the hotel, which has 98 rooms (including 48 suites and six chalets), is a former royal hunting lodge dating back to 1461. Today’s hotel offers luxuries even Mozart — once a guest — couldn’t imagine: heated floors, pillow menus and Nespresso machines. But those picture-perfect lake views remain wholly untouched.
Explore: There’s plenty to do: You can venture through Salzburg’s cultural scene or hop on the iconic Sound of Music Tour (the movie celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025). In the winter, the hotel can arrange a hot air balloon ride over the lake, while the warmer months invite you out on the water.
Dine and sip: Rosewood Schloss Fuschl has a number of dining outlets and claims that about 70% of its ingredients come from the region surrounding the hotel. Options include a regional restaurant with modern takes on Salzkammergut food (think Austrian blood sausage, known locally as blunzn, and gyoza with sauerkraut); a lakeside restaurant with a global menu; a rustic, wine-centric restaurant with Austrian favorites; and two bars.
Evening in: Before dinner head to Vinothek, a lodgelike bar and restaurant, for cold cuts, cheese and other local spreads and wines. Then, try the best Austria and Salzburg have to offer with a tasting menu and wine pairings at Schloss Restaurant. Round out the night, if you can make it, with cocktails inspired by the Austrian empress Elisabeth and her family surrounded by crackling fireplaces and Marie Hartig’s handpainted walls.
Upgrade your stay: Saturday nights are for wine lovers thanks to the hotel’s weekly Winemaker Dinner. Happening each weekend for 189 euros ($199) per person, guests can join a rotating mix of popular winemakers for a four-course dinner expertly paired with specific wines alongside conversations and lessons about the art of wine-making.
Checkout: Rates start around $441 per night. Book through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to get elitelike perks including 4 p.m. late checkout, potential room upgrades, onsite credits and more. — Tanner Saunders
The best new hotels in Asia
Four Seasons Hotel Osaka
Sky-high luxury meets traditional Japanese hospitality with ryokan-style rooms.
First impressions: Osaka’s first Four Seasons is a delight for the eyes from the moment you arrive at the contemporary lobby — complete with urushi-inspired elevator banks — to the 37th-floor restaurants and bars, where massive windows offer neverending views. But the stars of this hotel are the expansive infinity pool that looks out across the city and the public baths where guests can take Japanese-style bathing to new heights (literally!).
Explore: Within walking distance of the hotel are a handful of incredible museums: Nakanoshima Museum of Art, full of incredible modern art; The National Museum of Art; and the Osaka Science Museum. But the best thing you can do in Osaka is eat, and the Hungry Osaka Food Tour in neon-filled Shinsekai is hands-down the best way to experience Osaka’s incredible street food scene.
Dine and sip: Food is plentiful and delicious at this hotel. Options include Jardin, an all-day eatery with a beautiful breakfast buffet; Jiang Nan Chun, an upscale Chinese restaurant with a wonderful tasting menu; a forthcoming sushi restaurant; and Bar Bota, a 37th-floor bar that’s buzzy and bumping at night as people drink creative cocktails and take in the views.
Evening in: Unwind with a visit to the hot baths in the wellness center before getting ready for a night in. Head to dinner at Jiang Nan Chun, where you’ll feast on marinated, slow-cooked egg with Kaviari Kristal caviar, chilled cherry tomatoes infused with preserved plums, marinated lobster in Sichuan pepper oil, and deep-fried crab shell stuffed with crab meat. Close out the evening with an Umeboshi Martini made with red ume-washed gin, bonito, Mancino bianco vermouth and umami bitters at Bar Bota just across the hall.
Upgrade your stay: Book into the Gensui Modern Ryokan Floor and get a taste of traditional Japanese hospitality with tatami mats, ofuro baths and even a separate check-in area and lounge where you can enjoy an authentic Japanese breakfast in the mornings and sake and tea later in the day.
Checkout: Rates start at $651 per night for a traditional room and $807 per night for a room on the Gensui Modern Ryokan Floor. — Tanner Saunders
Janu Tokyo
The first outpost of Aman’s social-forward new brand arrives in the heart of bustling Tokyo.
First impressions: The iconic red (OK, “international orange”) Tokyo Tower has been a staple of the city’s skyline since 1958. Fast forward more than 60 years, and guests at Janu Tokyo can see it through large windows in the hotel’s decadent sky lobby tucked within the skyscraper complex of Azabudai Hills. There, surrounded by designer stores and contemporary art, Janu Tokyo sets the tone for a new brand from Aman that focuses more on looking out at the world than inside the soul (but that doesn’t mean it skimps on spa and wellness experiences).
Explore: Azabudai Hills is a city-within-in-a-city with lots of hidden fun, including TeamLab Borderless, a highly impressive digital art museum that comes to life across dozens of rooms, and plenty of places to shop, like Officine Universelle Buly, a French perfumery that also sells beautiful monogrammed combs and brushes.
Dine and sip: Dining at Janu Tokyo is serious business and includes mouthwatering pasta at an Italian market-inspired restaurant, contemporary Cantonese cuisine, Edomae-style sushi, afternoon tea in a lounge with a garden, a meat- and seafood-heavy grill, a patisserie, and a very special charcoal-grilled omakase experience called Sumi. For drinks, Janu Bar serves cocktails inspired by the city’s unique and distinct neighborhoods.
Evening in: After a busy day wandering Tokyo, start the evening with a relaxing trip to the spa for a swim in the 82-foot pool, a steam in the sauna and a cold plunge to round off this wellness arc. Just be sure to arrive on time at Sumi (where reservations are a must) and enjoy a (mostly) grilled omakase experience that features items like tuna sashimi seared on raw straw, corn rice, mouthwatering spiny lobster and little ayu sweetfish.
Upgrade your stay: At 43,000 square feet, Janu Tokyo has one of the largest and most complex gyms and wellness centers in Japan. If you, like Fergie, are working on your fitness, why not hire out the hotel’s boxing ring for a private boxing lesson? Not a boxer? Take advantage of the virtual golfing range.
Checkout: Rates start around $917 per night. — Tanner Saunders
Raffles Jaipur
This opulent hotel inspired by India’s grand palaces is destined to become a regional star.
First impressions: The very finest Rajasthani artisanship and design are showcased to eye-catching effect across the hotel’s 50 sumptuous balcony-bedecked guest rooms and suites, as well as its public spaces. The rooftop infinity pool, embellished with Mughal-style arches, offers panoramas that encompass a pink Hindu shikhara temple and verdant mountains in the distance.
Explore: History and culture are at your doorstep. Just 15 minutes by car from Raffles Jaipur, the exquisite 16th-century Amber Fort with its scalloped archways, Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) and fascinating history is unmissable. Other worthwhile stops while touring the famed Pink City include the much-Instagrammed Hawa Mahal, the City Palace and the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing.
Dine and sip: In all four of the hotel’s dining outlets, flavorful food and drinks are made even more enjoyable by regal decor, such as at the progressive North Indian restaurant Arkaa, with golden chandeliers and intricate jali screens. There are pastas and seafood dishes at the Mediterranean-inspired rooftop Sehara and small bites in the glamorous Safir Tea & Champagne Lounge, while the iconic Writers Bar, serving cocktails infused with Rajasthani flavors, has exquisitely handpainted bluebird-hued walls.
Evening in: Pull up a plush velvet seat in Arkaa (which means “ray of light”) to be served from soulful sharing plates of fall-apart-on-your-fork lamb biryani, as well as plant-forward dishes. Afterward, tuck into a corner of the Writers Bar for a saffron martini or Jaipur Sling before a pampering soak in either your indoor claw-foot tub or the ample one on your balcony.
Upgrade your stay: Take the elevator down to the bottom floor where the Raffles Spa’s intoxicating jasmine-imbued scent readies you for relaxation with a Pearl Remineralising Body Wrap for 9,000 rupees ($107). Follow it with a 30-minute session practicing the ancient candle-gazing meditation called Trataka for 4,500 rupees ($53).
Checkout: Rates at the Raffles Jaipur start at $802 per night. — Kathryn Romeyn, TPG contibutor
The Standard, Singapore
Choose this lush retreat with bold design details for a serene, irreverent and totally “Standard” experience.
First impressions: The glamorous faceted glass facade of The Standard, Singapore might be intimidating if it weren’t for the new building’s cute size: eight approachable floors with 143 compact rooms and suites. Playfulness pervades inside the petite lobby, in sunny yellow-tiled bathrooms, at the long pool lined with funhouse mirrors and striped daybeds with midcentury umbrellas, and in two exceptional food-and-beverage concepts.
Explore: The hotel sits squarely between two of the city’s major attractions: the UNESCO-marked Singapore Botanic Gardens and the extravagant shopping district of Orchard Road, so plan walks accordingly. Singapore currently has 51 Michelin-starred eateries, from hawker stalls serving pork noodles to high-end spots offering extravagantly coursed contemporary fare. Since Singapore is teeny, they’re all very accessible.
Dine and sip: Kaya at The Standard should be a priority when it comes to dining thanks to its gorgeously presented, boldly flavored dishes and cocktails. That three-meal-a-day offering is complemented by Standard Cafe, an American-leaning concept with cheeseburgers, salads and a sriracha-accented Naughty Chicken Burger, plus boozy Biscoff-tinged milkshakes and libations inspired by shows and movies that were filmed at Standard Hotels.
Evening in: Spend golden hour working on a golden tan and sipping draught Asahi beer or ginger slushies from the swim-up bar before rinsing off with spiced Davines toiletries. Head to dinner at Kaya, wrapped in embroidered 3D floral wallcovering, and order the Hikari Spritz before feasting on the delectably zesty Somen & Tomatoes and the tasty fermented and well-aged proteins. Wrap with the textural Sweet Potato Mont Blanc and Harmony milk oolong-infused whisky, matcha and black sesame cocktail for dessert.
Upgrade your stay: Splurge on space by booking the singular Suite Spot Pool View escape, which clocks in at 775 square feet (versus the standard rooms’ petite 248 square feet). There are two en suite king bedrooms, a wood-paneled bar and a high-ceilinged living room, plus a dining table and, rightly, a killer aerial vista of the verdant pool scene below.
Checkout: Rates start at $182 per night. The Standard, Singapore will likely soon be incorporated into World of Hyatt. — Kathryn Romeyn
Taaktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo
Make your way to this thoughtfully designed beach resort for a rich cultural experience in an emerging Indonesian destination.
First impressions: Just five minutes from the airport, Taaktana wows from the get-go with its captivating lobby view of the boat-filled harbor at Labuan Bajo, the gateway to Komodo National Park. Its 70 spacious accommodations — suites, stand-alone pool villas and overwater villas — were inspired by the striking architecture of the surrounding Manggarai region.
Explore: Komodo dragons are the most famous residents in this region of East Nusa Tenggara, but there are plenty of other gorgeous or interesting things to experience on dry land or in the sea, from pink beaches and traditional songket textile weaving to vibrant reefs and manta rays.
Dine and sip: Bold Indonesian cuisine is offered at the oceanside, dinner-only Umasa and alongside Portuguese-skewing Western fare at the all-day Leros. It’s a tie for the most beautiful panoramas between Nera Lounge, where even the afternoon tea is a polished affair, and Taba, an eatery specializing in Japanese robata cooking. Maiga! on the jetty equally wows with its idiosyncratic cocktails served from golden hour until midnight.
Evening in: Watch a spirited performance of the Manggarai caci men’s fight-dancing before joining the nightly sunset ritual — a small sip and bite featuring sopi, a traditional local spirit — at Maiga! Afterward, walk the jetty as the colors fade from the sky for a set menu at Umasa featuring abundant local dishes (including sticky-sweet pork ribs) presented in rantang, the local name for tiffin.
Upgrade your stay: The full-day “Island Hopping” journey includes a visit to the Komodo dragons, of course, but also trekking on Padar Island and snorkeling at Manta Point for 2,500,000 Indonesian rupiah ($158) per person.
Checkout: Rates at Taaktana start at $420 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. — Kathryn Romeyn
The best new hotels in Africa and the Middle East
Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius
The longtime “it” resort of Mauritius gets a tropical luxury glow-up.
First impressions: Le Touessrok has long been associated with Mauritius luxury, but Shangri-La has kept it fresh since taking over in 2015. The luxe brand’s 2024 revamp of the property resulted in breezy, contemporary spaces and local flourishes (like handcrafted batik scarves left in your room as a gift) with the same attentive service that put this resort on the map in the first place.
Explore: Shangri-La Le Touessrok is on the less-developed eastern coast of Mauritius, so you have miles of pristine coastline to explore. But save time to venture to Ilot Mangenie, a private island for guests of the Shangri-La, to enjoy a little more seclusion on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Dine and sip: Of the five bar and restaurant renovations that took place at Shangri-La Le Touessrok, be sure to explore the property’s two new offerings: TSK (Touessrok Soul Kitchen) for its practically theatrical cooking stations for international fare and Coco’s, the ideal spot for seaside seafood in a French Riviera-inspired beach house.
Evening in: Enjoy live music with a side of local rum at Sega Bar, a colorful watering hole with a view that parties into the early morning hours.
Upgrade your stay: We always like our beach getaway to come with ample elbow room, so splurge on the Shangri-La Three Bedroom Beach Villa, complete with a private infinity pool, secluded stretch of beach, complimentary laundry service and access to a private chef.
Checkout: Rates at Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius start at $608 per night. — Cameron Sperance
The Lana, Dorchester Collection
This property brings a new style of pared-down elegance to the capital of bling.
First impressions: Style and substance meet at this new Emirati redoubt. Step out of one of the Dubai hotel’s burgundy-hued chauffeured Rolls-Royce Phantoms and into a lobby whose centerpiece is a pink marble mosaic wall with a cascading golden sculpture. Settle into your room (bathtub views of the Burj Khalifa and beds courtesy of British royal mattress supplier Vispring are hallmarks) before a lazy afternoon by the rooftop pool.
Explore: You’ll soon be able to walk or jog along the yacht-filled, 7-mile Marasi Bay Marina waterfront. In the meantime, though, the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa are a mere 10-minute car ride away, and the Golden Souk is about a half hour away.
Dine and sip: Hotels that double as dining destinations are no new phenomenon in Dubai, but The Lana is setting a new bar with restaurants from both French chef Jean Imbert and Basque master Martin Berasategui.
Evening in: Start with a honey-infused cocktail at the lobby-adjacent speakeasy, Bitter Honey. Then, enjoy northern Spanish classics like whole Atlantic sole grilled over wood and Galician-style octopus at the 18th-floor Jara by Martin Berasategui before a last round at the rooftop bar, High Society, where drinks are inspired by ancient sun-worshipping societies like the Egyptians and the Inca.
Upgrade your stay: Appointments at the Dior Spa — the only one in a hotel in the Middle East — book up months in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure an Iyashi Dome infrared session or a face-and-back treatment incorporating Dior’s ultraexclusive L’Or de Vie line made from the sap of Bordeaux, France’s famous Chateau d’Yquem’s grapevines.
Checkout: Rates at The Lana, Dorchester Collection start at $660 per night. If you have The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, you can book through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to receive perks like availability-based upgrades, up to a $100 credit to use at the property during your stay for extras like drinks or meals, complimentary daily breakfast for two and guaranteed late checkout. — Eric Rosen
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island
A private island paradise that’s surprisingly accessible with points — and the best new points hotel in the 2024 TPG Awards.
First impressions: Your first glimpse of this reef-fringed island will be from above as your plane from Mahe descends toward the landing strip that bisects this 1-square-mile speck of land. Although it’s a tiny place with just 50 villas ranging from one- to five-bedroom abodes, chances are you won’t run into many other guests, especially since each accommodation has its own expansive outdoor area with a plunge pool, daybeds and loungers.
Explore: Spend your days beachcombing Platte Island’s pristine shores (you’ll spot turtles, crabs and stingrays), indulging in a treatment (or two) with high-end Voya and Nourished by Nature skin care products at the garden-set spa, enjoying a private scuba diving expedition or embarking on a sunset cruise aboard the hotel’s private yacht — complete with aperitifs and canapes.
Dine and sip: You might be stuck on an island, but the dining and drinking options abound, with Mediterranean fare at La Perle, Creole cuisine at Maison des Epices and garden-grown ingredients at Moulin.
Evening in: Enjoy African-Creole specialties inspired by chef Colvin Beaudouin’s mother’s cooking, like Coetivy prawn and spanner crab curry, while being cooled by Indian Ocean breezes at Maison des Epices, or wend your way through a plant-based tasting menu, much of it sourced from the resort’s own gardens, at Moulin before a nightcap under the stars at the beachfront Lalin bar.
Upgrade your stay: Redeeming points for your stay will snag you a room and daily breakfast, but spring for the full-board package for 465 euros ($501) per person, per day to enjoy lunch, dinner, room service, most of the villa’s minibar refreshed daily and either two nonmotorized water sports activities or two massages per villa, per day at the spa.
Checkout: Rates at the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island start at $1,350 or 130,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Book via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to enjoy benefits like space-available upgrades and an on-property statement credit. — Eric Rosen
Bonus: Morocco’s 2024 hotel boom
Following a 2023 earthquake in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco is back and in the midst of a luxury hotel renaissance.
Morocco, one of TPG’s best places to travel in 2025, has a lot going on at the moment, including new airline routes to the country, new (and growing) train networks and planning for the 2030 World Cup, which the North African country is co-hosting with Spain and Portugal. The country also opened a slew of top-tier hotels in 2024, including the Park Hyatt Marrakech; The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam; and the Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr. Plus, Royal Mansour, one of Morocco’s most iconic hotels, expanded with a city stunner in Casablanca and a beach resort right on the Mediterranean, Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay.
If that’s not enough, Sir Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot, part of Virgin Limited Edition, reopened in the High Atlas Mountains following the earthquake with a new restaurant and new riads but the same incredible Berber hospitality. — Tanner Saunders
The best new hotels in Australia
The StandardX, Melbourne
The Standard gets a rebellious, younger (and more affordable) sibling Down Under.
First impressions: We’re a long way from The Standard’s first outpost on the Sunset Strip. The StandardX, Melbourne is the first of the mother brand’s flirty offshoot and beckons with more simplicity than the standard Standard but still wows with its industrial-meets-minimalist patina (and eye-popping red front door) that fits right in with the surrounding hip Fitzroy neighborhood.
Explore: Get a taste of the world in surrounding Melbourne, from the nearby Rose Street Artists’ Market to countless boutique shops and global restaurants on Brunswick Street.
Dine and sip: Enjoy local ingredients spun into Thai and Southeast Asian masterpieces at the all-day Bang restaurant (save room for the banana roti for dessert), while The Roof is a guests-only perch for sunset cocktails with a view.
Evening in: It’s not hard to find a party or must-attend event at a hotel associated with Standard, and StandardX is no different. From supper clubs at Bang to lobby DJs to just kicking it back with a cocktail at The Roof, you don’t have to spend the night off the property to get a slice of Melbourne nightlife.
Upgrade your stay: Go for the Suite Spot, we say. Splurge on the StandardX’s largest accommodation for extras like a built-in bar, powder room and art by Melbourne native Jane Sinclair.
Checkout: Rates at the StandardX, Melbourne start at 229 Australian dollars ($146) per night. — Cameron Sperance
Southern Ocean Lodge
Reborn after devastating damage from the 2020 bushfires, Southern Ocean Lodge returns with its secluded all-inclusive luxury, magazine cover-worthy design and ocean views — and now, thanks to its Mr & Mrs Smith listing, ties to World of Hyatt.
First impressions: Repeat guests will notice Southern Ocean Lodge was largely built back to the way things used to be — luxurious as always, albeit slightly repositioned for better ocean views. But one especially moving feature is a wrought iron kangaroo sculpture (known as Sunshine), the only decoration to survive the bushfires, looking over the lobby.
Explore: Kangaroo Island is also known as the Australian Galapagos thanks to its abundant wildlife, greenery and safari-esque explorations. Flinders Chase National Park and Kelly Hill Conservation Park are great for animal watching, or head to nearby Seal Bay to see the sea lion colony before enjoying a Kangas & Kanapes offering at sunset.
Dine and sip: Snag a window seat at Southern Ocean Lodge’s restaurant for decadent meals (all largely sourced from the local area) with a waterfront view. Local crayfish with curry butter, lamb, and ice cream sandwiches with local honey are just a small slice of the menu. If you catch a fish from nearby Hanson Bay, the kitchen staff will cook it for you and serve it at dinner. And don’t forget just how all-inclusive it gets at this luxe resort: Along with expertly crafted cocktails, you can also snag a bottle of wine (largely Australian, save for the Champagne) from the cellar to take back to your room.
Evening in: Enjoy some R&R at the Southern Spa with a facial, massage or restorative scrub before hopping between the hot and cold plunge pools facing the ocean.
Upgrade your stay: You can’t go wrong with any of the 25 suites at Southern Ocean Lodge, but the Baillie Pavillion is a particular favorite with its 180-degree coastal views, two heated plunge pools, soaking tubs with a view, and option for a private chef experience during longer stays.
Checkout: Rates at Southern Ocean Lodge start at $2,118 per night. — Cameron Sperance
Tanzania has implemented new health measures following an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the Kagera region, where nine suspected cases have been reported, including eight deaths.
The Government issued a travel advisory on 21 January requiring mandatory temperature checks at all entry points into the country, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warned.
The outbreak has prompted heightened surveillance measures as health officials work to contain the spread of the virus, which belongs to the same family as Ebola.
Under the new travel advisory, all travellers entering Tanzania must undergo temperature checks at all points of entry.
Measures have been introduced to control the spread of the virus
GETTY
Those leaving the Kagera region face additional requirements, including mandatory exit screening and completion of an online form.
The measures are part of Tanzania’s efforts to monitor and control the spread of the virus across its borders.
Visitors to Tanzania should also be prepared to present their return or onward tickets at border control points as part of the enhanced screening process.
The suspected cases were identified across two districts in the Kagera region – Biharamulo and Muleba – as of January 11, 2025.
Health officials officially reported the outbreak on January 13, 2025, with laboratory results still pending confirmation.
The cluster of cases has raised significant concern among health authorities, with eight of the nine suspected cases resulting in fatalities.
The rapid progression of the outbreak has led to the implementation of strict monitoring protocols across the affected districts.
Marburg virus disease poses a severe health risk, with historical fatality rates ranging from 25 per cent to 88 per cent.
As of January 11, eight deaths were reported in connection to the Marburg virus disease outbreak
GETTY
The virus belongs to the same family as Ebola and can cause severe haemorrhagic fever in infected individuals.
Health officials are particularly concerned about the high mortality rate observed in the current outbreak, with eight deaths among nine suspected cases.
The severity of the disease has prompted Tanzanian authorities to implement comprehensive screening measures whilst awaiting laboratory confirmation of the suspected cases.
As regular readers know, I’m a big fan of cabins with balconies. As I explained in a recent story, there’s nothing quite like being able to step onto a balcony on a ship to breathe in the fresh ocean air.
But that doesn’t mean I’m opposed to the idea of staying in a cabin without a balcony. In fact, at times, I’ll even book a cabin that doesn’t have a window — or, as they’re known in the cruise world, an “inside” cabin.
If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might not even know there’s such a thing as a cabin without a window. But there is, and they’re actually quite common. Many ships operated by major lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line have hundreds of windowless cabins.
That may seem almost unthinkable to people who are used to staying at hotels on land. After all, there aren’t a lot of hotels that have hundreds of rooms without windows. If there were, we’re guessing they wouldn’t be huge sellers.
But it’s fair to say that accommodations on cruise ships have their own set of quirks.
The upside of an inside
The lack of a window isn’t the only reason to pooh-pooh the idea of staying in an inside cabin.
In addition to offering nary a peek at the world, inside cabins — named because they’re generally located toward the middle of ships, away from exterior walls — also often are the smallest cabins on any cruise ship. Many are downright tiny. That latter point can be a big turnoff for some cruisers.
But there are advantages to inside cabins, too. For starters, inside cabins often are significantly less expensive than ocean-view cabins. They also offer a sort of “less is more” minimalism that can appeal to a keep-it-simple crowd.
Related: 5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade
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For me, at least, there are times when a cabin that’s inexpensive and modest in size is just fine, even if it doesn’t have anything in the way of a view.
After all, for the most part, I’m not taking cruises to spend a lot of time in a cabin. Like most cruisers, I get on ships to enjoy all they have to offer in their public spaces and to explore all the wonderful places to which they sail.
In that context, does it really matter if the room where I’ll sleep each night is big and fancy?
Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
To steal a line from Arthur Frommer, the legendary guidebook author and guidebook company founder, “Most of the time you’re in your room on vacation, your eyes are closed.”
Frommer said that to me years ago during an interview about his favorite hotel rooms. He thought spending huge sums on fancy digs was a waste. His words stuck with me over the years, and now I see their wisdom.
Here are six reasons you might want to seriously consider the least expensive inside cabins on any cruise ship.
You’ll save money
This is, for sure, the big allure of inside cabins. They can be an incredible deal.
At the time of this story’s publishing, fares for inside cabins on six-day Royal Caribbean cruises out of Fort Lauderdale in January 2026, for instance, were available for about 20% less than fares for balcony cabins. The fares for inside cabins were less than half the cost of the least expensive suite.
Specifically, you could get on the line’s amenity-packed Allure of the Seas out of Fort Lauderdale on a Jan. 11, 2026, departure for $760 per person, if you were willing to stay in an inside cabin. That works out to just $109 a day.
Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know
The thing to remember here is that all of Allure of the Seas’ major attractions, from deck-top pools and surfing simulators to an indoor ice skating rink and a giant theater with Broadway-style shows, are open to everyone on board, whether they’re staying in the smallest or biggest cabin. So are nearly all the ship’s onboard restaurants, bars and lounges.
Other than having to sleep in a smaller, windowless room, you’ll be getting much of the same onboard experience as someone who pays far more for a snazzy cabin but at a fraction of the price.
You’ll sleep like a baby
There is no dark in the world like the dark of an inside cabin. Once you turn off the lights, it will be pitch black — the kind of darkness that’s almost scary to contemplate.
This can be a bit disorienting for someone who’s used to at least a little moonlight getting into the bedroom at home. But if you’re the kind of person who has trouble sleeping with any kind of light disruption, an inside cabin can be pure bliss. You’ll go to bed without any worry about the morning sun sneaking through your curtains to wake you prematurely. And moonlight is definitely not a problem.
Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
Inside cabins can be particularly appealing if you’re sailing far north around the summer solstice when the sun stays up for much (or all) of the day. We’re talking about places like Alaska, the Norwegian coast and around Iceland and Greenland. Ditto if you’re sailing far south during the winter to places such as Antarctica or the more southerly parts of South America.
You’ll spend more time enjoying the ship
The trick to having a blast on a cruise ship is to dive right into anything and everything it has to offer. If it has a rock wall, you need to climb it. Karaoke? Get ready to sing. Leave no waterslide or late-night comedy show unexperienced. To do this, of course, you need to get out of your room, and there’s no better motivation to venture out of your room than to have one that lacks much space or even a window.
When I book inside cabins, I find that I get up and out early. Instead of ordering room service for breakfast, I’ll head to a restaurant with a view and then explore the ship more than usual in the morning. I’ll spend daytime hours playing on the ship’s top decks and evening hours out late at the bars, lounges and showrooms.
Related: 7 reasons you should splurge for a suite on your next cruise
By offering you little more than a small, dark place to rest your head at night, inside cabins can be just the impetus you need to make the most of your cruise vacation.
You might get less seasick
Worried about getting seasick on your next cruise?
The most stable place to be on any cruise ship is low down on the vessel near its equilibrium point, which is generally near its center. Since inside cabins are closer to the center of a ship than “outside” ocean-view and balcony cabins, they can be more stable in rough seas. The trick is to find an inside cabin toward the center of the ship in both directions — lengthwise and widthwise.
The counterargument to this, for the record, is that you can’t look at the horizon when you’re in an inside cabin — a common tip for people experiencing seasickness. And you won’t have access to fresh air as you would in a balcony cabin.
If you’re solo, you might avoid extra fees
Nearly all cruise ship cabins are designed for two travelers, each paying their own fare, and solo travelers generally have to pay an extra fee to stay in one alone. But some ships have special inside cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. If you’re traveling alone and stay in one of these special cabins, you can avoid the extra solo traveler fee, known in the industry as the “single supplement.”
Norwegian, which has been at the forefront of the solo cabin trend, now has hundreds of inside cabins for solo travelers spread across more than half a dozen vessels.
Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
While Norwegian’s solo cabins do have windows, they open up onto hallways, not the outside of the ship. They’re also unusually small, at around 100 square feet, but they’re superbly designed to maximize storage space, too. Additionally, they’re clustered around exclusive lounges where solos can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.
Royal Caribbean, Cunard and Holland America are among other lines that have been adding solo cabins to some ships — many of them inside cabins.
There are a few ocean-view cabins designed for solo travelers in the industry, but they are very rare.
You might still get an ocean view (with a twist)
On a few innovative cruise ships, there are windowless inside cabins that offer a view of the outside world, thanks to the magic of technology.
On some Disney Cruise Line ships, some inside cabins come with “magical portholes” that show real-time views of the outside. They’re actually screens built into the walls of the cabin to give the illusion of a porthole view.
Royal Caribbean has gone a step further, adding large “virtual balconies” to inside cabins on some ships. These are floor-to-ceiling LED screens that show real-time views of the outside, built into the walls of the cabins in such a way that they offer the illusion of a balcony.
If this idea sounds a little hokey, it is. But I’ve stayed in these cabins, and the illusion is surprisingly real. The addition of the screens really changes the feel of the rooms. The Disney cabins are particularly fun, as Disney characters sometimes make cameo appearances in the magical portholes. If you have young kids with you, they’re going to love it.
Bottom line
Booking a room without a window on a cruise ship might seem like an odd choice. But there are good reasons to consider one, not the least of which is that rooms without windows on cruise ships — known as “inside” cabins — can be an incredible value.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
Travel
Qantas Frequent Flyer announces sweeping changes to loyalty program — here’s what to book now and what to book later
Australian airline Qantas has announced a mixed bag of changes to its loyalty program. Some award rates and carrier-imposed surcharges will increase later this year, but the airline will also add additional award availability and new partner award tickets. Thankfully, these Qantas Frequent Flyer changes won’t take effect until Aug. 5.
Given the news, there are some redemptions you should book now and others that you should wait to book until later this year. Here’s what you need to know about the changes so you can plan accordingly.
Higher prices and surcharges for Classic Flight Rewards
For bookings made from Aug. 5 on, Qantas will increase the cost of its cheapest saver-level redemptions (called Classic Flight Rewards) and saver-level upgrades for Qantas-operated flights by 5% to 20%, depending on the route.
On the shortest domestic routes like Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Sydney Airport (SYD), rates for Classic Flight Rewards will increase from 8,000 points each way to 9,200 points, with the fees, taxes and surcharges of 55 Australian dollars (about $34.50) remaining the same.
The price increase will be more substantial on long-haul services, such as Qantas flights from Sydney to Europe. Bookings made from Aug. 5 on will rise from 144,600 to 166,300 Qantas points each way, and fees, taxes and surcharges will increase from AU$473 to AU$648 (about $297 to $406).
Classic Flight Rewards are often hard to find, especially on long-haul routes in premium cabins. This has been especially apparent since the airline launched dynamically priced Classic Plus Flight Rewards in 2024. These award tickets are tied to the cash price of a flight and are much more expensive.
Verdict: Book now.
Higher redemption rates for partner airlines
Qantas is a member of the Oneworld alliance, meaning you can redeem Qantas points on partner airlines like American Airlines, British Airways and Alaska Airlines. The airline also partners with carriers outside the Oneworld alliance, such as Air France, KLM and Emirates.
For bookings made from Aug. 5 on, Emirates flights will be priced according to the Qantas award chart (rather than the partner award chart). Because of this, award rates and surcharges will increase for Emirates-operated flights, as with Qantas-operated flights.
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Qantas has not yet revealed the price increases of other partner airlines, though it says it will do so in May (for bookings made from Aug. 5 on). Currently, you can book domestic flights within the U.S. on routes like New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) from just 8,000 Qantas points, a great deal given that other Oneworld carriers have devalued short-haul domestic flights.
If you want to redeem Qantas points on partner airlines, you should do so before the prices rise in August.
Verdict: Book now.
Related: A step up from your average economy: Flying Emirates’ A380 from Dubai to Johannesburg
New premium economy award options
For the first time, starting in October, you can redeem Qantas points for premium economy seats on flights operated by Finnair, Air France, KLM and Iberia. Due to this change, the program promises that 200,000 new premium economy award seats will be added.
If you don’t have enough Qantas points to book business-class award seats on these airlines, you may wish to wait until August to book premium economy seats.
Verdict: Book later.
Related: Is Iberia premium economy worth it on the Airbus A330 from Madrid to Dallas?
New Classic Flight Rewards seats on Hawaiian Airlines
In advance of Hawaiian Airlines’ entry into the Oneworld alliance, you will be able to redeem Qantas points for flights on the airline starting in October.
Qantas promises 800,000 Hawaiian Airlines award seats will be available to Qantas Frequent Flyer members.
Verdict: Book later.
Related: A new era for Hawaiian Airlines as it launches Dreamliner service: TPG was on the inaugural
Lower award prices for Jetstar flights
Jetstar is Qantas’ wholly owned low-cost subsidiary, comparable to Europe’s EasyJet in terms of passenger experience, pricing, rules and restrictions. Jetstar is not a Oneworld alliance member, so partner points or miles cannot be used to book Jetstar flights (nor can you use non-Qantas Oneworld status).
You can already redeem Qantas points for Jetstar flights. However, from Aug. 1 on, the cost of Classic Flight Rewards seats on Jetstar for popular Australian routes like Melbourne Airport (MEL) to SYD will drop to just 5,700 Qantas points.
If you want to get from point A to point B and aren’t fussed about traveling on a full-service airline or using your Oneworld status benefits, this will be an inexpensive way to fly domestically within Australia.
Verdict: Book later.
Changes to earning points
In addition to the above pricing changes, Qantas will increase the number of points members earn on domestic cash tickets by up to 25%. The airline will also award additional points on select international tickets.
Earning Qantas points via credit cards
While there are no Qantas-branded credit cards available in the U.S., you can transfer rewards from three programs with transferable currencies directly to Qantas Frequent Flyer:
Each has a transfer ratio of 1:1, so 10,000 credit card points equal 10,000 Qantas points.
Additionally, you can transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Qantas Frequent Flyer at a 3:1 ratio, meaning 3 Marriott Bonvoy points become 1 Qantas point. Marriott will also add 5,000 bonus points when you transfer 60,000 Bonvoy points to an airline.
Bottom line
Devaluations are an unfortunate reality of collecting points and miles. We recommend earning transferable points for precisely this reason; if one transfer partner devalues, you can always book with another.
These changes announced by Qantas represent higher prices and surcharges for both flights operated by Qantas and its partner airlines within and outside the Oneworld alliance.
However, there are some upsides. Qantas is giving members six months’ notice before any price increases. And, for the first time, members will be able to book Hawaiian Airlines and premium economy award tickets on several partner airlines.
For flights that will increase in price, you should consider booking as soon as possible.
If you’ve been excited about the possibility of flying a United Airlines Boeing 737 to Mongolia, you’re in luck. The airline has just officially started selling flights to Ulaanbaatar.
The Chicago-based carrier just filed the details of this creative new route, as first seen in Cirium schedules.
CIRIUM
United’s new 1,900-mile route from Narita International Airport (NRT) to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) will commence on May 1 with three times weekly service in each direction. (The westbound service will operate on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, while the eastbound flight will operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.)
Pro tips: The biggest mistakes people make with travel rewards credit cards
Flights from Tokyo will depart at 4:30 p.m. and land in Ulaanbaatar at 8:55 p.m. The return service will leave at 9:55 a.m. and land in Toyko at 3:45 p.m.
United plans seasonal service in this new market with flights scheduled to end on Oct. 12, 2025.
These flights are timed to connect with United’s primary transpacific departure and arrival banks from Narita. United operates long-haul flights from Narita to Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark and San Francisco.
United will deploy a Guam-based Boeing 737-800 on this route, featuring 16 business-class recliners, 48 Economy Plus extra-legroom seats and 102 standard economy seats.
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Seeing a United Boeing 737 in Mongolia might be puzzling for some, but it’s being operated as part of historical fifth-freedom rights that United has in Tokyo for flights that originate in the U.S. and continue onwards to other countries.
In recent years, United hasn’t really taken advantage of these rights, instead focusing on boosting its hub in Guam. That said, Guam hasn’t been as busy or lucrative as it has in the past, so United seems to be experimenting with new uses for the jets it stations in Micronesia.
Flight review: Is United Airlines premium economy worth it to Europe?
In fact, United has been busy in recent months turning its presence at NRT into a de facto gateway hub within the larger region. The airline recently commenced new flights from Tokyo to Cebu in the Philippines, and now it’s adding three more short-haul regional routes from the airport (Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Koror, Palau; and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia).
United says that its joint venture partnership with Japanese airline All Nippon Airways will help these routes take off. (For instance, ANA doesn’t currently fly from Narita to Ulaanbaatar.) The new flights will also be supported by travelers looking for one-stop connections from the U.S.
“We are thinking about Tokyo differently than how it’s been thought of in the past. I think Tokyo is a real asset to us. … And when we went through the data, a lot of this traffic was connecting over Beijing, but is not doing so anymore. And so this is a way to connect it over Tokyo,” United’s network chief Patrick Quayle told TPG back when the routes were announced in October.
If you’re looking to book the new route, one-way fares start at $326 in economy and $753 in business class. Introductory mileage rates are quite steep, with one-way economy flights starting at 30,000 miles and business-class flights starting at a whopping 75,000 miles.
There was no saver award availability on the new routes as of time of publication.
Related reading:
Having elite status with an airline you frequent — such as JetBlue — can make your travels more comfortable, efficient and seamless.
However, since earning elite status often requires a significant commitment of travel time and money, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a frequent flyer program before funneling your business to that airline. For some individuals who are airline free agents, it may not make sense to pursue elite status at all.
This guide will evaluate JetBlue Mosaic status and explain how the status tiers work, how to earn them and whether striving for this status is worth the effort for JetBlue flyers.
Related: Complete guide to airline status matches and challenges
What is JetBlue Mosaic status?
JetBlue rewards the most frequent flyers in its TrueBlue loyalty program with Mosaic status and the TrueBlue points they earn while flying the airline.
Unlike the legacy U.S. carriers, which offer complimentary upgrades on domestic flights to their most loyal members, many of JetBlue’s aircraft are not equipped with its luxurious, well-regarded Mint business-class cabin. Instead, JetBlue elite members benefit from earning bonus points, selecting Even More Space seats and getting free checked bags, among other benefits.
Your JetBlue Mosaic status begins when you meet the criteria and is valid for the rest of that calendar year and the entirety of the following year. So, if you reach the status requirements in June 2025, you will hold the status through Dec. 31, 2026, giving you a year and a half to benefit from the perks.
Related: A business-class boost: Reviewing JetBlue’s Mint Suite
JetBlue Mosaic status tiers
TrueBlue is free to join, and all members start at the “basic” level. While the program initially offered a single status tier, this changed in 2023 when JetBlue overhauled TrueBlue and Mosaic.
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The four published tiers of JetBlue elite status are:
- Mosaic 1
- Mosaic 2
- Mosaic 3
- Mosaic 4
The differences among the tiers are based on the amount you fly and spend with JetBlue. As you fly more with JetBlue and/or utilize a cobranded credit card (among other activities), you can move up in the program.
Mosaic 1 is very similar to the former stand-alone Mosaic status. With each higher tier reached, more valuable perks become available.
How to qualify for JetBlue Mosaic status
JetBlue uses a metric known as Tiles for Mosaic status qualification purposes. Tiles can be earned in one of two ways: through qualifying spending on JetBlue flights and vacations, or with JetBlue credit cards.
You earn one Tile for every:
This means you can reach JetBlue Mosaic status entirely through credit card spending, spending with JetBlue or with some combination of the two.
Here’s what you’ll need to qualify for each Mosaic tier:
| Status tier | Tiles needed | Status earned exclusively by JetBlue travel spending |
Status earned exclusively by JetBlue credit card spending |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mosaic 1 | 50 | $5,000 | $50,000 |
| Mosaic 2 | 100 | $10,000 | $100,000 |
| Mosaic 3 | 150 | $15,000 | $150,000 |
| Mosaic 4 | 250 | $25,000 | $250,000 |
As you can see, earning status solely through credit card spending isn’t feasible for most travelers. It’s often easiest to use a combination of the two methods — for example:
- $3,000 in JetBlue flights (30 Tiles) plus $20,000 in card spending (20 tiles) gets you Mosaic 1 status.
- $5,000 in JetBlue flights (50 Tiles), $3,000 in Paisly purchases (30 Tiles) and $20,000 in card spending (20 Tiles) gets you Mosaic 2 status.
JetBlue Mosaic status benefits
Basic members earn 3 TrueBlue points per dollar spent on JetBlue flights (except Blue Basic fares, which earn 1 point per dollar), plus an additional 3 points per dollar when they book on JetBlue’s website (1 point per dollar for Blue Basic).
While working their way to Mosaic 1, basic members enjoy “Perks You Pick” — a selection of benefits you can choose from when you earn 10, 20, 30 and then 40 Tiles. These options include:
- Early boarding with Group B (except on Blue Basic fares)
- Priority security (where available)
- Free inflight alcoholic drink (one drink per flight)
- Double bonus points on a JetBlue Vacations package (one-time use only)
- 5,000 TrueBlue bonus points
Note that these are one-time selections, so you can’t (for example) pick 5,000 points at all four thresholds.
Then, once you hit 50 Tiles, you’ve officially earned JetBlue Mosaic status.
Mosaic 1 status
This is the lowest elite tier in JetBlue’s program, where you will receive:
- 3 bonus points per dollar spent on JetBlue flights
- Priority security and boarding
- First two checked bags free
- Complimentary beer, wine, and liquor (up to three drinks per Mosaic member per flight)
- Even More Space seats at check-in at no extra cost
- Same-day switches with no fee or fare difference
- Preferred core seating (excludes Blue Basic starting March 1)
- Dedicated check-in lines and phone support
- Heathrow Express upgrades (pending availability)
- Avis Preferred Plus status match
Mosaic 2 status
You’ll receive all of the same perks as Mosaic 1, as well as:
- Select Even More Space seats at booking at no extra cost
- Status match to Avis President’s Club
Mosaic 3 status
When you elevate your JetBlue elite status further, you unlock these benefits:
Mosaic 4 status
At TrueBlue’s top tier, you will receive everything mentioned above, as well as:
- Two additional Move to Mint certificates (pending availability), plus two more certificates for every additional 100 Tiles earned after reaching Mosaic 4 (starting in January)
- Gift Mosaic 1 status to a TrueBlue member of your choice (these members don’t receive a Perks You Pick selection)
- Dedicated Mosaic 4 phone support
However, the benefits continue beyond there. Once you reach Mosaic 1, and each time you level up through JetBlue elite status, you can choose an additional perk from the Perks You Pick menu, which includes:
- Complimentary FoundersCard Blue membership
- Pet-fee waiver
- $99 one-time statement credit for JetBlue Plus or Business cards
- 20-Tile bonus for yourself or a giftee
- 15,000 TrueBlue bonus points
- Mint Suite priority access to select the best seats (pending availability)
- IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status
Can a credit card help earn JetBlue status?
JetBlue has three credit cards, all issued by Barclays:
| Card | Best for | Sign-up bonus | Earning rate | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JetBlue Plus Card | Frequent JetBlue flyers | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days |
|
$99 |
| JetBlue Card | Casual JetBlue flyers | Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on qualifying purchases within the first 90 days |
|
$0 |
| JetBlue Business Card | Small-business owners | Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: 50,000 points after spending $4,000 on qualifying purchases in the first 90 days and 10,000 points when a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days |
|
$99 |
The information for the JetBlue Plus Card, JetBlue Card and JetBlue Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
You’ll earn 1 Tile toward Mosaic status with every $1,000 spent on any JetBlue credit card, with no limit. This means you can, in theory, earn JetBlue elite status without ever stepping on a plane.
But this would require a lot of spending, and don’t forget the opportunity cost. You may get more value by putting your expenses on a card that earns transferable points on dining, travel or other popular categories. Due to their expansive lists of transfer partners, these transferable currencies are generally more valuable than JetBlue points. Plus, you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points and Citi ThankYou Rewards points to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio. American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to JetBlue at a 1:0.8 ratio.
Is JetBlue Mosaic status worth it?
If you earn Mosaic status anytime in 2025, your status lasts until Dec. 31, 2026. The earlier you achieve status, the longer you can enjoy it.
However, the Mosaic perks outlined above will only be helpful if you fly JetBlue regularly while your status is valid. There’s little benefit in focusing time and money on earning Mosaic elite status if you can’t enjoy the benefits.
If you value time-saving perks like priority boarding and security plus the money-saving benefits of free seat selection, checked bags and upgrade certificates, Mosaic elite status could be very valuable. However, the top perks require a lot of spending to earn, so be sure it’s worth that investment.
Another thing to consider is whether or not JetBlue’s route network matches your flying preferences. Mosaic elite status could be beneficial if your home airport is a JetBlue hub, such as Fort Lauderdale, Boston or New York. It may be less beneficial if your plans involve mostly international travel, since JetBlue has a limited international network (primarily in the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe).
A third factor determining if JetBlue Mosaic’s status is worth it is how much you value TrueBlue points. JetBlue prices award tickets based on the cost of a paid ticket, and TPG’s January 2025 valuations peg TrueBlue points at 1.3 cents apiece. However, this redemption value is generally lower when you redeem points for JetBlue Mint tickets. Since you’ll be collecting TrueBlue points on your pathway to earning status, ensure they unlock the rewards you want.
Finally, consider the perks that are important to you. You may be able to get these by simply adding a JetBlue credit card to your wallet, rather than going out of your way to earn Mosaic status. For example, the JetBlue Plus Card includes a free checked bag for you and three companions, 5,000 points on your cardmember anniversary, 50% off eligible inflight purchases, and 10% of your TrueBlue points back as a rebate when you book JetBlue-operated award flights. This may be plenty for a casual JetBlue flyer.
Bottom line
Earning elite status on any airline is a marathon, not a sprint, requiring loyalty throughout the year. However, JetBlue provides some flexibility in that you can reach Mosaic status through a combination of flying and credit card spending.
With perks such as complimentary Even More Space seat selection, Mint upgrades and priority service, the rewards for your loyalty to JetBlue can be very worthwhile. This is especially true for those who live in cities with a significant JetBlue presence, especially with Mint service (JetBlue’s award-winning business class).
The first thing that struck us as we disembarked our flight at Innsbruck Airport — other than the fresh, bracing air—was the breathtaking mountain scenery encircling us. Towering, snow-dusted peaks are all around, glowing in the morning sunlight – a natural amphitheatre promising several days of history, fun and adventure.
The second thing that stood out was the remarkable ease of travelling from the airport to the heart of Innsbruck. Few international airports in Europe allow you to be dining in a restaurant in the city centre within an hour of landing, but in Innsbruck it’s possible to achieve this effortlessly. Once through passport control and the baggage claim area, the F bus immediately outside the airport doors swiftly connects you to Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (the main train station from which you can easily explore the Old Town on foot) in just 15–20 minutes.
And so, we did just that, stopping at Weisses Rössl for a wonderful Tyrolean lunch. But for first-time visitors to the city, I’d strongly recommend taking a private guided tour. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Innsbruck’s rich history, culture and hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. Our certified Austria guide, Monika, greeted us with a warm smile and the promise of unique insights — stories and details that only someone with centuries of family roots in the city could share.
We set off to explore the city’s layers of history, noting that the streets are dotted with intricately wrought-iron signs. These ornate markers, each a miniature work of art, once served as advertisements for the city’s merchants. From gilded boots to gleaming scales, these signs were not merely decorative but also practical, helping visitors and locals to navigate Innsbruck’s winding streets before literacy was widespread.
We are led to the nearest bridge where we pause to take in a view that perfectly encapsulates Innsbruck: the River Inn, flanked by the pastel façades of Mariahilfstrasse. Each building was painted a different colour—a tradition that began as a way to identify homes and shops but has also become a symbol of the city’s vibrant personality.
Here, Monika drew our attention to the river’s formidable presence. In Spring, the snowmelt floods its banks, often threatening to breach the bridges that connect the city. It’s a reminder of how closely life here is intertwined with nature and the surrounding landscape.
The marketplace near the bridge is alive with energy each morning – it’s a thriving hub of farmers and vendors selling everything from ripe produce to Alpine cheeses, something which the locals take an immense pride in.
Innsbruck’s history unfolded as we entered the Old Town. Monika led us to the Golden Roof, the world-famous symbol of the city with its 2,657 fire-gilded tiles. Built by Emperor Maximilian I, the roof was a symbol of his power and influence when Innsbruck was the capital of Europe.
Maximilian’s legacy looms large here and there’s a plaque that lists notable visitors to the city, including the likes of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Maria Theresa,he mother of Marie Antoinette.
Through strategic marriages, Maximilian expanded his empire across the continent, earning the title of Europe’s last knight. But even an emperor’s resources are finite. When his ambitious projects drained his treasury, he left Innsbruck for Vienna, where he died. He’s not buried in the city he so adored, but statues of significant historical figures, particularly from the Habsburg dynasty – which had been built to surround the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I – remain in the Hofkirche.
These statues are a marvel of Renaissance craftsmanship, each figure etched with exquisite detail. Monika pointed out one particularly fascinating statue, which cleverly depicts the artist’s self-portrait in the elbow. Preserved in Innsbruck, these statues survived the bombing of Vienna during World War II, and a poignant reminder of the city’s role as a guardian of history.
Nearby, Dom St. Jakob’s painted ceiling is an exquisite work of art. What appears to be a grand dome is, in fact, a flat ceiling – a masterpiece of illusion, painted to create depth where none exists.
Innsbruck’s spirit of resilience came alive again as Monika recounted the fire that once ravaged the city. From its ashes rose the domed walkways that now characterise the Old Town, offering shelter from weather and a demonstration of the city’s ability to adapt and endure. This theme of survival is mirrored in its people – as Monika noted, those born in Innsbruck often stay or, if they leave, feel an irresistible pull to return. There’s something magnetic about life here, a harmony that blends tradition with progress.
That progress is evident in the youthful energy coursing through the city, thanks to its thriving university, whilst Innsbruck’s proximity to Italy and Germany adds to its vibrancy; introducing new cultures and cuisines. Yet Innsbruck itself feels complete, its charm rooted in its people and its connection to the land.
Our tour ends at Adlers Hotel, a modern counterpoint to the city’s historic heart. It has been a fascinating insight into Innsbruck and a wonderful way to begin our trip. As we say farewell, we now understand what Monika means about the pull of the place. – we’ve only been there a few hours but are already longing for more.
Disclosure: Our trip was sponsored by Innsbruck Tourism.
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.
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As Los Angeles slowly begins to assess the damage caused by recent wildfires, it’s clear that rebuilding will take years and cost an astronomical sum of money. Some reports estimate a cost as high as $40 billion. Not to mention the threat of more fires remains strong as the Santa Ana winds and dry conditions persist. The possibility of rain showers this weekend offers hope that the worst of the fires could be over — though the rain could bring new challenges to the area.
In response to the devastation and lingering conditions, LA Mayor Karen Bass signed an executive order on Jan. 21 ordering expedited cleanup in burn areas and mitigation of fire-related pollutants in local stormwater systems, beaches and ocean water. The order also directs the city’s department of public works crews to clear and remove vegetation, shore up hillsides with reinforced concrete barriers, lay down sandbags and clear debris from affected neighborhoods ahead of rainfall.
“With rain in the forecast, it’s imperative we take aggressive action to prevent additional damage in burn areas and to protect our water and ocean from hazardous runoff,” Bass said in a press release. “These communities have already endured unimaginable loss — we are taking action against further harm.”
The Eaton and Palisades fires have killed at least 28 people and destroyed more than 14,000 structures in Altadena and Pacific Palisades. According to the Associated Press, the Palisades fire had reached 61% containment and the Eaton fire had reached 87% as of Tuesday.
As city and county leaders begin the recovery process, tourism and hospitality officials have announced that the City of Angels wants and needs the support of visitors.
“Los Angeles has always been a beacon to the world — a place where dreams are born and stories unfold from the silver screen to iconic landmarks,” Visit California president and CEO Caroline Beteta said in a press release sent to TPG. “One of the best ways to support the comeback of Los Angeles is to plan a trip.”
Much like Maui after it suffered its own horrific wildfires, Los Angeles is hoping tourism can help kickstart its economic recovery from the calamitous event. The fires not only destroyed homes and entire neighborhoods, but local businesses as well.
“The city, along with its iconic sites and experiences — the Hollywood Sign, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, Getty and Getty Villa, Griffith Observatory and many more — remain intact and accessible to visitors from around the world,” Beteta said. Of course, some wonder if the time is right to visit the city so soon after the destruction.
Is now the right time to visit Los Angeles?
This is a tricky question. Just as Maui struggled with balancing its all-important tourism industry and locals’ rebuilding needs, LA has to manage a similarly delicate situation.
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Obviously, the areas most affected by the fires, like Pacific Palisades, should be off-limits to visitors. Many residents are still unable to return home to survey damage; the last thing they or first responders need is intrusive tourists trying to get a close-up look. The air quality remains poor in some parts of LA, so that’s also something to consider before booking a trip.
However, many shops and restaurants have reopened in popular areas such as Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and West Hollywood. To highlight the urgency of keeping tourism alive and aiding recovery efforts, city hotel and tourism officials put out a call to action on Jan. 21 urging visitors to not cancel their travel plans.
According to their statement in a press release sent to TPG, more than 540,000 people work in the LA tourism industry in some capacity, and a significant number of those employees were likely affected in some way by the wildfires. The influx of visitors and the money they spend helps them get back on their feet.
To give you an idea of just how important tourism is to the city’s bottom line, nearly 50 million people visited Los Angeles in 2023, contributing more than $40 billion in sales to the local economy along the way. Additionally, visitors in 2023 contributed $312 million in Transient Occupancy Tax revenue from their hotel stays.
What’s open in Los Angeles?
As we mentioned earlier, many of the city’s most popular attractions have already reopened. Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures have both resumed studio tours on their Hollywood lots. Major theme parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and Knott’s Berry Farm have all resumed operations, as have the world-renowned Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park (in view of the iconic Hollywood sign).
Most museums — including the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures — are also operational again.
Speaking of the Oscars, the film adaptation of “Wicked” just scored 10 Academy Award nominations. If you are in LA and want to see the touring production of the stage musical, it has resumed performances at the Pantages Theatre and is playing through Feb. 2.
There are still a number of attractions that have not reopened, though. The Getty Museum in Los Angeles remains closed through Jan. 27. Meanwhile, the Getty Villa — which, despite being located in Pacific Palisades, escaped major damage from the wildfires — is closed until further notice. The popular Runyon Canyon and Will Rogers State Historic parks are also closed.
How you can help Los Angeles recover
One of the easiest ways to contribute to recovery efforts as a visitor is to give the local economy a little help. Dine LA Restaurant Week is going on from Jan. 24 through Feb. 7; you can find a list of participating restaurants and make reservations here. Each reservation at one of these restaurants will benefit wildfire relief efforts coordinated by the American Red Cross.
Another easy way to contribute is to attend one of several fundraising events occurring in the city over the next few weeks. Discover Los Angeles has an extensive list of upcoming relief efforts on their website.
Something else that’s desperately needed? Volunteers. Some LA-based organizations that need help include:
- Habitat for Humanity LA: It needs contributions and volunteers to help wildfire survivors rebuild.
- LA Food Bank: It needs many people to help the local food bank feed some of the thousands of people affected by the fires.
- LA Animal Services: It needs foster pet parents to help with the number of dogs and cats who have ended up in local shelters since the start of the fires.
More volunteer resources are available on the city’s official website.
We’ll keep this story updated as we get more information.
It’s no secret that 2025 is going to be an “epic” year for Universal Orlando Resort. The resort’s third park, Universal Epic Universe, is scheduled to open on May 22. But you don’t have to wait until then to explore some of the park’s other exciting new developments.
In addition to Epic Universe, Universal is opening three new hotels and adding 2,000 guest rooms to its portfolio this year. The first of these, Universal Stella Nova Resort, opened on Jan. 21, 2025, and TPG was among the first to stay at this galactically cool property.
The hotel’s design is inspired by the vast and beautiful wonders of outer space, which you can see reflected throughout the property starting with the exterior. The facade of the hotel is covered by more than 140,000 colorful dichroic tiles that change color based on the lighting and time of day. When I arrived around midday, they were shimmering in an entire rainbow of hues, but in the evening they take on darker blues and purples.
Upon entering the lobby, you’ll see space-themed artwork inspired by NASA photographs. The cosmic aura continues through to the nebulalike purple, blue and white color scheme and the spaceport windows in the guest rooms.
Here’s a first look at Universal Stella Nova Resort, including cost, amenities, dining and theme park perks.
What does it cost to stay at Stella Nova Resort?
Stella Nova Resort is part of Universal’s Prime Value lodging category (Universal Aventura Hotel and the soon-to-open Universal Terra Luna Resort also belong to this collection).
Prices start at $147 per night (plus tax), but this price is only available for stays of four nights or longer. On average, we found pricing to be closer to $200 to $230 per night for a one-night stay. Every room at Stella Nova is a standard two-queen room, so the only price difference you will find is if you choose a pool-view room over a standard view. You’ll pay between $10 and $20 more for a pool view.
The parking cost for overnight guests is $30 plus tax per vehicle per night.
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Stella Nova Resort is bookable via the Capital One Travel portal. Eligible Capital One cardholders can book this resort via Capital One Travel and pay in cash with their Capital One card or redeem Capital One miles. When you pay using your card, you can earn up to 10 miles per dollar spent, depending on the Capital One card you carry.
Among the Capital One cards you should consider using if booking this way are:
Stella Nova Resort location
Stella Nova, along with Universal’s other two upcoming hotels, is located adjacent to Epic Universe. Epic Universe itself is about three miles from the rest of Universal Orlando, but there is a complimentary shuttle service between the new park (and its hotels) and the rest of Universal Orlando Resort. From Stella Nova, it is about a 12-minute bus ride to Universal Orlando’s main security area that leads to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk (bus transfer is available to Volcano Bay water park).
From Orlando International Airport (MCO), it’s about a 20-minute drive to Stella Nova Resort. Universal does offer a paid shuttle service called the SuperstarStar Shuttle, but ride-hailing services and rental cars are also readily available.
Inside Stella Nova Resort guest rooms
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
All 750 rooms at Stella Nova Resort are double queen rooms that sleep up to four guests, so the layouts are similar in every guest room, though you can choose from standard-view and pool-view categories. ADA-compliant rooms are available. A standard-view room looks over the back of Epic Universe. You can see portions of the park peeking out, which builds the excitement for your vacation.
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Universal Stella Nova Resort. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
Inside the rooms, the color scheme is similar to that of the hotel’s public areas, with space-inspired art. A few fun details, like a galactic mural behind the beds, Creamsicle-colored accent pillows and sleek, curved furnishings add to the futuristic feel.
The beds are soft and comfortable, with a thin coverlet that isn’t necessarily a bad thing when you consider the typical outside temperatures in Orlando. I also appreciated that there was a QR code on the TV that I could scan to use my phone as a remote control (there is a standard remote, as well).
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Universal Stella Nova Resort. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
Similar to many other Universal Orlando hotels, the bathroom is split-style, with a sink and vanity in the center and a door that separates it from the toilet and tub. This not only allows for privacy but also makes it easier for multiple guests to get ready simultaneously.
The specialty Cosmic Ember bath products had a fresh scent, and I loved the continuity of the branding even for the shampoo, conditioner and soap.
Guest rooms are also equipped with standard amenities like a coffee and tea maker, mini refrigerator, hair dryer and iron. Standard Wi-Fi is complimentary, or you can upgrade to premium Wi-Fi for $9.95 per day.
Stella Nova Resort amenities
Stella Nova offers similar amenities to Universal’s other Prime Value properties. It has a resort-style pool complex with a 10,000-square-foot pool, a hot tub, a kid’s splash pad and lawn games like hula hoops and table tennis. The resort shows poolside movies on select nights (check at the front desk for a weekly schedule).
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Universal Stella Nova Resort. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center, an arcade, laundry facilities, an Avis car rental desk, a ticket desk to assist with theme park planning needs and a gift shop so special (for now, at least) that it is one of the first hotels to feature a large collection of Epic Universe merchandise. I saw shirts, toys and collectibles representing all of the lands coming to the new park and some general Epic Universe-branded merchandise.
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Universal Stella Nova Resort. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
Universal Creative turned an unused portion of the third floor with no guest rooms into a “sky bridge” with starry lights in the ceiling, which is already proving to be a popular spot after being open only a couple of days.
If you can’t resist getting that perfect Instagram photo in this trippy space, try to do so quietly so as not to disturb the guests staying on this floor.
Stella Nova Resort dining
Stella Nova Resort has several dining options to keep you fueled up for your theme park adventures.
Cosmos Cafe and Market
Located in the hotel lobby, Cosmos Cafe and Market is a quick-service outlet that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. It also offers a selection of grab-and-go items like ice cream, snacks, prepackaged salads and sandwiches and coffee drinks.
The menu is comprised mostly of American classics like burgers, fries, pizza and pasta, but there are some specialty items as well. I stopped by for lunch during my stay (which was too brief to make time for breakfast).
I tried the hot honey pizza ($15.50), which was topped with cheese, garlic cream sauce, buffalo chicken and, of course, hot honey. It was tasty — and spicy. I had the Mexican street corn ($7) on the side, which was by far my favorite dish and a huge portion for being a side item. My dining companion had the Stella burger ($15.50), which was a delicious classic burger.
All in all, the food was good and filling, but there are so many good dining options inside the park and at CityWalk, I think I would save my Stella Nova meals for when I needed something before heading out for the day or when I was starving after a long day at the parks.
Nova Bar
Nova Bar is also located in the lobby and is open daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. In addition to classic beer, wine and cocktails, you’ll find space-themed drinks like the Black Hole ($16), which is basically an espresso martini, and the Super Nova (also $16), a whiskey-based cocktail with cherry-infused Campari and tart cherry syrup served smoked over a large ice cube.
Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill
Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill are the hotel’s poolside drink and dining options. Starters include things like chips and salsa, hummus and veggies and a Mexican shrimp cocktail. For your meal, you can choose from a selection of salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps.
Galaxy Bar has a lengthy beer list with a mix of cans and drafts and a handful of hard ciders and seltzers.
Pizza delivery
Direct-to-room pizza delivery is also available daily between 5 p.m. and midnight. You can place your order via phone or the online order form.
Stella Nova Resort theme park perks
Like all Universal Orlando hotels, guests enjoy certain perks that only onsite hotel guests enjoy. These include early access to select theme parks and attractions each morning. Which park(s) and attractions you get access to can vary by day, but you’ll get a 30-minute head start at Volcano Bay and a full hour at Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios.
Stella Nova guests also get park-to-hotel package delivery, resort-wide charging privileges using their room key and complimentary shuttle service to and from Universal’s theme parks and CityWalk. Even if you drive, I recommend using the shuttle service because Universal does not offer free theme park parking to hotel guests.
Stella Nova (like its sister property, Terra Luna) has a walking path that will lead to Epic Universe when the park opens in May. It’s about a 10-minute walk, but you can also take the shuttle if you choose.
Things I loved about Stella Nova Resort
- I am a sucker for good theming, so I was all-in on the chic spaceship vibes Stella Nova was giving off. Everything from the futuristic lobby seating to the artwork felt upscale and ultramodern. With theme parks leaning more and more toward immersing guests in the worlds they create, it only makes sense that Universal would extend this sentiment to its hotels.
- The excitement for Epic Universe’s grand opening this year is palpable among theme park fans. Stella Nova offers the first and only way for Universal guests to stay so close to this groundbreaking new park and get a glimpse inside even while they are still putting the finishing touches on the attractions. Aside from adding to the anticipation, once the park does open, guests staying at Stella Nova Resort will be only a short walk or bus ride away from Epic Universe.
- Especially while everything in the hotel is shiny and new, you cannot beat this resort’s level of theming and amenities at such an affordable price point. Universal has hotel rooms that range from the $150 range all the way up to as much as $800 per night. Obviously, you get what you pay for, and Stella Nova appears to be a great value for the nightly rate.
Things to consider before staying at Stella Nova Resort
- Though you are a stone’s throw from Epic Universe when you stay at Stella Nova, you are a few miles away from the rest of Universal Orlando Resort. If you prefer the convenience of taking a boat, bus or short walk to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk, that will not be an option when you stay here.
- Unlike Universal’s Signature Collection properties (like the upcoming Universal Helios Grand Hotel), you won’t find amenities like multiple pools, waterslides, formal sit-down dining, 24-hour room service or luggage delivery. If those are luxuries you are acclimated to, you need to consider whether you can do without them at Stella Nova.
Bottom line
Universal Stella Nova Resort is the first of three new hotels opening near Epic Universe this year and it sets a high bar. Universal Terra Luna Resort opens on March 25, 2025, and should be similar in all but its theming, while Universal Helios Grand Hotel will become Epic Universe’s flagship hotel when it opens along with the new park on May 22, 2025.
The reasons for staying at this particular hotel will be obvious once the park opens, but it offers a rare opportunity to be among the first guests on Epic Universe property for those who choose to stay here now even before May. I can confidently say I was not ready to come back down to Earth after my out-of-this-world visit to Universal Stella Nova Resort.
Related reading:
Jan. 23, 2025
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3 min read
New Chase bonus spending offers and a chance to earn a $100 statement credit
Chase is back with another targeted promotion: Eligible Chase cardholders can earn 5 or 7 bonus Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on groceries, gas and dining purchases made with select credit cards.
This promotion targets more than 25 credit cards. Ultimate Rewards earning potential varies based on credit card but applies to purchases of up to $1,000 made between Jan. 15 and March 31.
Below are some of the credit cards with this targeted promotion:
To participate in this promotion, log into your Chase account to see if you are targeted. Eligible cardholders can earn 5 or 7 bonus points for each dollar spent on grocery, gas and dining purchases (on up to $1,000 in purchases) for transactions from Jan. 15 until March 31 at 11:59 p.m. EST. After activating the offer, select cardholders will receive a $100 travel credit for bookings of at least $400 made by Jan. 31 and for travel by Aug. 31.
Other credit cards — including the Aer Lingus Visa Signature® Card, the Iberia Visa Signature® Card and the Disney® Premier Visa® Card — are eligible for this promotion, so be sure to check your Chase account to see if you’ve been targeted.
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The information for the Aer Lingus Visa Signature and Iberia Visa Signature cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
You can stack this offer with the previously announced offer in December that gives Targeted Chase cardholders the chance to earn 10,000 bonus points through the Chase Travel℠ portal. Note that your hotel stay must total at least $400 in a single transaction, and you must book travel by Jan. 31 for trips completed by Aug. 31.
Featured image by ANDRESR/GETTY IMAGES
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an urgent travel warning for British citizens planning to visit Ireland as Storm Éowyn approaches.
The warning comes as extreme weather conditions are expected to impact the country over the next two days.
The FCDO stated: “There are severe weather warnings in place for Ireland for January 23 and January 24 January due to Storm Éowyn.”
The warning covers the entirety of today and tomorrow, with Irish weather services providing detailed forecasts of the storm’s impact.
‘There are severe weather warnings in place for Ireland for January 23 and January 24’
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The FCDO advised British travellers to check their travel plans in advance before heading to Ireland during the severe weather period.
They should also monitor Ireland’s weather service for the latest updates on Storm Éowyn. Visitors were also instructed to “follow the advice of local authorities”.
The Irish Meteorological Service has updated its weather warnings, issuing Red warnings for several parts of the Ireland and Northern Ireland. Orange and yellow warnings have also been issued for other parts.
Travellers should keep up-to-date with warnings for their specific destination in Ireland.
A ‘Red’ Wind warning for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Waterford reads: “Gale to storm force southerly winds becoming westerly with extreme, damaging and destructive gusts in excess of 130km/h.”
The warning is valid from 2am – 10am on Friday, January 24.
Potential impacts include:
- Danger to life
- Extremely dangerous travelling conditions
- Unsafe working conditions
- Disruption and cancellations to transport
- Many fallen trees
- Significant and widespread power outages
- Impacts to communications networks
- Cancellation of event
- Structural damage
- Wave overtopping
- Coastal flooding in low-lying and exposed areas
Red warnings issued in Ireland
- Wind warning for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Waterford
- Wind warning for Clare, Galway
- Wind warning for Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo
- Wind warning for Cavan, Monaghan, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Roscommon, Tipperary
- Wind warning for Donegal
Red warnings issued in Northern Ireland
- Wind Warning for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, Derry
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Holidaymakers should be aware of ‘extremely dangerous travelling conditions’
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Each warning details the potential impact of Storm Éowyn and how long the warning is valid.
The Met Office stated: “Red Warnings for wind have been issued for Northern Ireland as well as central and southwestern areas of Scotland on Friday. These are accompanied by wider Amber and Yellow Warnings for wind, as well as Yellow Warnings for rain and snow.”
Before going abroad, it is always advisable to consult the FCDO’s latest guidance for your chosen destination for a safe, well-informed trip.
This will include the latest information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, any regional risks, safety and security, health and getting help.
Britons were recently issued a travel warning as an Asian tourism hotspot faces “heightened tensions”.
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