Take a fall foliage road trip by RV: Blacksford is a new recreational vehicle rental business offering fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, bath and kitchen supplies, free Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance.
Crisp cool air, colorful foliage, and fewer travelers clogging up the highways makes fall the perfect time to take a vacation. Whether you are driving an RV across the country, exploring a national park, playing cowboy at a dude ranch, or leaf peeping by bicycle, we have rounded up six of the best autumn vacations for every type of traveler.
Fall Under the Big Sky: Fall in Big Sky, Montana, brings golden aspen and cottonwood trees, fly fishing for feisty trout and bugling elk. Hike a local trail, wade a world-class river or go on a wildlife safari in nearby Yellowstone National Park, then enjoy the hospitality and comfort of suite accommodations at The Wilson Hotel in Big Sky’s Town Center. https://thewilsonhotel.com/
Leaf Peeping by Bike: Take a two-wheeled tour beneath canopies of gold, orange and red leaves in the Green Mountains with Adventure Cycling Association. Plan your own trip on the Green Mountains Loop, riding from Burlington, Vermont, into New Hampshire and along the Connecticut River, then back across to New York and the shores of Lake Champlain. An organized tour is also available in 2021. https://www.adventurecycling.org/
RV Fall Foliage Road Trip: Blacksford is a new recreational vehicle rental business offering fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, bath and kitchen supplies, free Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance. https://www.blacksford.com/
Glamp Near a National Park: Just minutes from Jackson Hole, Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus. The resort is located a stone’s throw from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes. It is a great place to post up for a fall getaway. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com
Play Cowboy at a Dude Ranch: Red Reflet Ranch is a 28,000-acre luxury resort and working ranch on the west slope of the Bighorn Mountains, just three hours from Yellowstone National Park. Guests stay in private chalets and enjoy family-friendly activities like horseback riding, ATVing, ziplining, swimming, hiking, fishing, shooting and feasting on farm-to-table cuisine. http://redrefletranch.com/
National Park Bicycle Tour: Escape Adventures has been leading cycling vacations through some of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in the world since 1992. From road cyclists and mountain bikers to electric bikers, Escape Adventures offers an array of bicycle tours in iconic destinations like Yellowstone National Park, Zion National Park, the Oregon Coast, and the Grand Canyon. https://escapeadventures.com
Hammetts Hotel, Main Street Hospitality’s newest addition to its management portfolio, has opened in Newport, RI, on America’s Cup at Commercial Wharf.
Newport, RI – Hammetts Hotel, Main Street Hospitality’s newest addition to its management portfolio, opened on Friday, June 26. Centrally located on America’s Cup at Commercial Wharf, the 84-room hotel places guests in the heart of downtown Newport and welcomes the local community to explore, gather, and dine.
The Sarah Langley Gallery at Hammetts Hotel, named for the owner of Hammetts Wharf from 1893 to 1906, also opens to the public on June 26. Purposefully established to engage both hotel guests and the Newport community in artistic conversations, visitors will have an opportunity to connect with artists, curators and gallerists. Inspired by work connected to Newport and the Northeast region, the gallery will also host partnerships with regional art and academic institutions. Exhibitions will be curated by a gallery committee and are scheduled to change seasonally throughout the year. Future plans for community events include gallery opening receptions, artist talks, and more.
The gallery’s opening exhibit features works by young artists at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County. Titled “This is Our Town,” the children use art to depict their hometown perspectives. The eclectic collection of artwork ranges from iconic landmarks like the Cliff Walk and Narragansett Bay, while other artists captured the diversity of the city’s North End, illustrated Newport’s “red tide” of seaweed, or caricatured middle school classmates. Together, the paintings represent the juxtaposition of grit and glamour in the “City by the Sea.”
“It is an honor to showcase artwork from young, local artists as the debut exhibition in the Sarah Langley Gallery, and a testament to the importance of the local community to Hammetts Hotel,” said Sarah Eustis, CEO of Main Street Hospitality. “All proceeds from sales of any of the pieces on exhibit will go directly to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County was established 1956. It is a place where countless young residents have learned to swim, received academic support, and gained leadership experience. For nearly 65 years the club remains true to its mission “to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need help most, to reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
The Sarah Langley Gallery is located in the central corridor of the hotel occupying the east wall for 50 feet of linear exhibition space. Nearby, the sun-drenched lobby features floor to ceiling windows welcoming visitors with abundant seating artfully arranged for individuals to linger and small groups to socialize. Guest rooms and public spaces have been carefully curated, featuring artists with strong ties to Newport. Eustis worked closely with Kristen Coates, a Newport gallerist, artist and art advisor, to engage the artists and curate the collections. Featured artists include William Heydt, Nicholas Lima, Onne van der Wal, Mark Sweeney, Rob Migliaccio, Christian Harder and Maaike Bernstrom.
Slated to open in August, the hotel’s restaurant Giusto will feature an outdoor bar and expansive patio overlooking the Newport Marina, a private dining room, and semi-open kitchen. Helmed by Chef Kevin O’Donnell, the cuisine will focus on regional Italian dishes with playful Rhode Island touches, including menu items from local farms and purveyors to support the community. The bar program will offer a mix of classic and freestyle cocktails, beer from local breweries, and a predominantly Italian wine list with featured natural selections.
Amenities of Hammetts Hotel include a private deck for guests to enjoy, a full-service waterfront restaurant, fitness center, flexible gathering spaces, and valet parking with seasonal rates. Summer rates starting at $300 per night.
For additional information and reservations, visit www.hammettshotel.com or call 401-216-8081. Hammetts Hotel is located at 4 Commercial Wharf, Newport, RI 02840.
Formed in 2014, Main Street Hospitality Group is a hotel management company founded originally at The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, with a long tradition of excellence in preservation, innovation, sustainability and operations. As owners and operators of some of the most distinctive hotels in the Berkshires and, most recently in Newport, RI, the company’s mission is to “create places that enable people to connect in meaningful ways” through genuine hospitality, thoughtful operations and an empathy-driven culture. Main Street’s hotel management portfolio includes The Red Lion Inn, Maple Glen at the Red Lion Inn, The Porches Inn at MASS MoCA, North Adams, MA, Hotel on North, Pittsfield, MA, The Briarcliff Motel, Great Barrington, MA, and Race Brook Lodge, Sheffield, MA, an affiliated hotel. Main Street will manage the Hammetts Hotel in Newport and will grow its presence in Rhode Island with the addition of The Beatrice Hotel in Providence also in 2020. For more information, visit www.mainstreethospitalitygroup.com or call 413-298-1610.
DEATH VALLEY, Calif. – For those looking for sun, heat, stunning natural beauty both day and night and lots of space, the most unique resort destination in the US may well be The Oasis at Death Valley. 61 miles from the nearest town (with nothing in between), and an official population of 320 people, Death Valley is located in Inyo County, Calif. one of the least populated counties in the state with about 1.8 people per square mile. If you need more space just ponder that this historic resort, ranch and golf course sits in Death Valley National Park, the largest national park in the Lower 48 States on more than 3.4 million acres (about 710 acres per staff and guest). Social distancing, for that matter civilization distancing, is one of its main features.
The Oasis at Death Valley is just that, where ancient waters bubble up to the surface to create a real American oasis with gardens, date palm trees, bubbling brooks, nature fed outdoor swimming pools, and even an 18-hole USGA golf course – the lowest golf course on the planet. Death Valley is known for its stunning beauty and exceptionally dark skies where the Milky Way can be seen with the naked eye. Besides hiking and sightseeing, outdoor enthusiasts will also find tennis, cycling, horseback riding (seasonal) and jeep tours (seasonal).
Down at The Ranch at Death Valley, all guest rooms open directly to the outdoors (no hallways, elevators or large public spaces) and guest park directly in front of their accommodations. The spacious lawns, massive pool and abundant open green space is an ideal environment to relax and escape the rushing, crowded world.
The The Ranch at Death Valley will awaken to guests on June 18 and while initial offerings may be somewhat limited, there is plenty to keep guests engaged and entertained. This is where Clark Gable would escape Hollywood, as did Ronald Reagan and numerous movies were in part filmed, including Star Wars.
Please check the website for the most up-to-date information and news, as well as, explore The Ranch’s 10-20-30 Deal where the longer you stay, the more you save:
Stay one night, receive a 10% discount with promo code STAY1.
Stay two nights, receive a 20% discount with promo code STAY2.
Stay three nights, receive a 30% discount with promo code STAY3.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (MONTANA & WYOMING) – Xanterra Travel Collection has begun phased re-opening of lodges, campgrounds, dining and tours in Yellowstone National Park.
The decision to re-open was made after closely monitoring the guidance and recommendations of public health agencies such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) as well as federal, state and local governments.
The current schedule for Xanterra operations in Yellowstone National Park has cabins with private baths, campgrounds, take-out food service, gift shops and select tours and activities available as part of a phased approach to opening beginning on June 8. Opening and closing dates are subject to change based on future conditions and public health guidance as well as the ability to maintain a safe environment for visitors, employees and NPS staff.
To learn more about Xanterra’s sanitization measures and ongoing efforts to keep employees and guests safe including physical distancing, ongoing cleaning, employee training, personal protective equipment and more, visit https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/health-and-safety/.
Visitors should come prepared and follow all CDC and local health guidance including practicing good hygiene and social distancing, wearing facial coverings in public spaces, and staying home and not visiting the park while sick.
LODGING: At this time, only cabins with private baths are scheduled to open at these locations: Old Faithful Inn, Grant Village and Roosevelt Lodge are currently closed but may reopen in 2020 if conditions allow.
Old Faithful Lodge (June 8-Oct. 4)
Old Faithful Snow Lodge (June 8-Oct. 25)
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (June 1-Nov. 1)
Lake Yellowstone Hotel (June 17-Oct. 4)
Lake Lodge (June 17-Sept. 2)
Canyon Lodge (June 19-Oct. 12)
CAMPGROUNDS: Xanterra campgrounds are currently scheduled to open on this schedule:
Madison (June 15-Oct. 18)
Bridge Bay (June 17-Sept. 7)
Grant Village (June 17-Sept. 13)
Canyon (June 19-Sept. 20)
Fishing Bridge RV Park will remain closed through fall of 2021
DINING: Select dining outlets will be open with “take out” options only. Based on current public health guidelines, dining room seating and dinner reservations are not available.
Mammoth Hot Springs Area: Terrace Grill (June 1-Oct. 12)
Old Faithful Area: Geyser Grill at Snow Lodge (May 22-Oct. 25); Old Faithful Lodge Bake Shop (June 8-Oct. 4); Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria (June 8-Oct. 3)
Canyon Area: The Eatery at Canyon Lodge (June 19-Oct. 12)
Yellowstone Lake Area: Wiley’s Canteen at Lake Lodge (June 17-Oct. 4); Lake Lodge Lobby Bar (June 17-Oct. 3)
Grant Village Area: Grant Village Dining Room (June 17-Sept. 13)
LIMITED GUIDED ACTIVITIES AND TOURS: Tours and activities will be limited to guide boats, boat rentals, backcountry shuttle, and dock slips at the marina, horseback rides at Canyon Lodge Corral, and bike rentals at Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Road-based tours, Scenicruise tours, Stagecoach rides, or the Old West Cookout will not be offered. Pricing and other details can be found online (https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/adventures/)
Bike Rentals at Old Faithful Snow Lodge (June 8-Sept. 7 or as weather permits, reservations not accepted)
Bridge Bay Marina/Dock Slips (June 17-Sept. 13)
Boat Rentals (June 17-Sept. 6, first come, first served, reservations not accepted)
Private Tours: Yellowstone Forever is the official nonprofit educational and fund-raising partner of Yellowstone National Park. Information about their private tours can be found here or by calling 406-848-2400.
SHOPPING: Select Xanterra gift stores will be open, but with controlled access to comply with distancing standards:
With nine unique lodging options, including the renowned historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Yellowstone National Park Lodges allows you to have the ultimate park experience. Staying in the park is the best way for visitors to experience all it has to offer, including the exciting wildlife watching. Once the day-visitors leave, Yellowstone remains for the in-park overnight guests alone. Yellowstone National Park Lodges offer tours and activities guided by Certified Interpretive Guides that help create memorable experiences. For more information on lodging, tours, and vacation packages visit, yellowstonenationalparklodges.com or call 307-344-7311.
Known for its “Legendary Hospitality with a Softer Footprint,” Xanterra Travel Collection provides unforgettable experiences through its operations in national parks, including lodges, restaurants, tours, and activities, as well as through its ownership of resorts, a cruise line, a railway, and tour companies. Xanterra has operations in Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Xanterra Travel Collection also owns and operates the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Ariz., The Grand Hotel in Tusayan, Ariz., The Oasis at Death Valley in Death Valley Calif., Windstar Cruises, Holiday Vacations, VBT Bicycling Vacations, and Country Walkers. Xanterra is also affiliated with two Forbes Five-Star Resorts, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO and Sea Island on the coast of Georgia.
Wentworth By the Sea, a grand historic resort on New Castle island, off Portsmouth, NH (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
WASHINGTON D.C. – With new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showing staggering job loss to the hospitality and leisure industry, the American Hotel & Lodging Association today released a “Roadmap to Recovery,” calling on Congress to prioritize relief for hotel workers and small businesses in the next stimulus package. The April Jobs Report showed the hospitality and leisure industry was the hardest hit, losing 7.7 million jobs—nearly as many jobs as the next four sectors combined. (Click here to read AHLA’s letter to Congress.)
AHLA is urging Congress to provide immediate assistance in these four areas:
Help hotels retain and rehire employees by extending the Paycheck Protection Program, offering employees direct tuition assistance or tax credits, and expanding the Employee Retention Credit
Protect employees and guests through tax credits for cleaning equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE)
Keep hotel doors open by providing relief for hotel commercial mortgages and increasing the size and flexibility of PPP loans
Incentivize Americans to travel again when it’s safe with a new, temporary travel tax credit and restoring the entertainment business expense deduction
“The hospitality industry is in a fight for survival,” said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA. “We are grateful to the leadership of both parties during one of the most difficult health and economic challenges we have faced. We are urging Congress to do even more to help the hotel industry so that our small business hotel operators can keep the lights on and retain and rehire employees.”
COVID-19 continues to devastate the hotel industry: 2020 is projected to be the worst year on record for hotel occupancy, and experts estimate it will be at least 2022 before hotels return to their 2019 occupancy and revenue levels. So far, the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry has been nine times worse than September 11. In a recent survey of AHLA members, more than 8 in 10 hotel employees said they have had to lay off or furlough workers. Only 37 percent have been able to rehire any staff through economic relief measures such as PPP.
With a presence in every congressional district in America, hotels are central to getting our economy back on track and supporting millions of jobs. Prior to the pandemic, hotels were proud to support one in 25 American jobs—8.3 million in total—and contribute $660 billion to U.S. GDP. A representative hotel with 100 occupied rooms per night supports nearly 250 jobs in the community and generates $18.4 million in guest spending at neighborhood shops and restaurants. Hotels also generate $186 billion in local, state, and federal taxes each year.
“While the hotel industry was one of the first affected by the pandemic, we have collectively stepped up to serve our communities during this public health crisis. We need Congress to continue to prioritize the industries and employees most affected by the crisis, so we can retain and rehire the people who power our industry, our communities and our economy,” concluded Rogers.
Click here to download the hotel industry’s Road Map to Recovery one-pager.
Miami, FL – Overseas Leisure Group, a luxury travel operator in 34 countries across the globe, announces its Carefree Bookings initiative, offering a risk-free method of booking across an attractive portfolio of more than 1,000 destinations and experiences around the world. The newly launched program has been designed to allow travelers plan their next trip despite the uncertainty of future restrictions enforced due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Carefree Bookings offers a convenient method of making a reservation with some of today’s leading destinations and experiences around the world, without the need for a deposit and with no cancellation fee if travel plans change. Furthermore, the cancellation policy is truly carefree, whereby if payment isn’t made 7 days prior to the arrival date (to guarantee the reservation) the booking is automatically cancelled with no penalty whatsoever. These no-strings-attached terms for the Carefree Bookings initiative apply to travel between June 1st and October 31st, 2020.
Among the initiatives developed to protect the consumer’s interest, more than 1,000 hotels, resorts and experiential providers have decided to participate in the Carefree Booking program, including: COMO Hotels and Resorts, 1 Hotel, Auberge, Belmond, Crowne Plaza, Disney, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Hard Rock, Hyatt, InterContinental, Kimpton, Lowes, Marriott, Meridien, Peninsula, Ritz Carlton, Rosewood, St Regis, and Westin Hotels and Resorts.
In addition to the vast array of participating hotels and resorts, Carefree Bookings offers hundreds of exclusive experiences, such as surf lessons in Malibu with actor John Philbin (Point Break), and private helicopter rides with Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, among others. A full list of participating properties (with opening dates) and experiences can be found by visiting the Overseas Leisure Group website.
“After weeks of confinement, there is a growing need for freedom and new horizons,” says Felix Brambilla, CEO of Overseas Leisure Group. “We heard the same comments time after time: “I am ready to make plans but I cannot commit if there is a risk of getting penalized.” Working with our hotel partners, we came up with the Carefree Bookings concept. More than a thousand properties already accepted to amend their usual T&Cs. We are very proud to be launching this initiative at a much-needed time!”
The Carefree Bookings program is now available through travel agencies and advisors in the U.S., Europe and Brazil. Travel agents can make Carefree Bookings in real time on the OverseasXpress platform at ox.live.
“In these extraordinary times, we believe strong partnership is fundamental to our business acumen, therefore we are thrilled to partner with Overseas Travel new initiative “Carefree Booking,” says Michele Bondanelli, Global Sales Director – Luxury, Lifestyle & Leisure for Hyatt. “A large number of Hyatt hotels are participating in the program across all brands and we look forward to welcoming their guests in the days, months and years ahead.”
“What a great way to address the current global situation and the effect it is having on travel,” says Kidist Grznar, Vice President of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. “A ‘Carefree Experience’ is an amazing way to give people the opportunity to keep dreaming and move forward with their travel plans ‘worry free.’ I am excited that Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is participating.”
Overseas Leisure Group is a growing global network dedicated to providing travel professionals with insider expertise for all luxury travel needs. The company is represented in 34 countries through 41 offices.
For further information on Carefree Bookings, visit the website. For further information on Overseas Leisure Group, visit www.overseasleisuregroup.com
WASHINGTON, D.C. –The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) introduced Safe Stay, an industry-wide, enhanced standard of health and safety protocols designed to prepare America’s hotels to safely welcome back guests and employees as the economy reopens. Safe Stay represents the top priority for the industry, the health and safety of guests and employees.
The standards of Safe Stay were developed under the guidance of an Advisory Council, comprised of industry leaders representing all segments of the hotel industry, and in conjunction with public health experts to advance best practices for protecting against the coronavirus. This initiative represents a new level of focus and transparency for an industry already built on cleanliness. Hotels have always met rigorous standards for cleaning and safety and these enhanced guidelines are rooted in recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
“Safe Stay was developed specifically to ensure enhanced safety for hotels guests and employees. While hotels have always employed demanding cleaning standards, this new initiative will ensure greater transparency and confidence throughout the entire hotel experience,” said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA. “The industry’s enhanced hotel cleaning practices, social interactions, and workplace protocols will continue to evolve to meet the new health and safety challenges and expectations presented by COVID-19.”
The “Safe Stay” guidelines are intended to be iterative, and will be revised as needed based on the recommendations of public health authorities, in compliance with any federal, state and local laws. They include guidance on the following:
Employee & guest health
Employee responsibilities
Cleaning products and protocols
Physical distancing
“The hotel industry maintains stringent standards for cleaning and safety, and the Safe Stay initiative helps to strengthen best practices to provide the healthy environments that travelers expect at hotels throughout the country,” said Ecolab. “Development of the Safe Stay initiative included guidance from Ecolab, a global leader in cleaning and disinfecting solutions and services that collaborates with the U.S. EPA, FDA, CDC, WHO and other organizations to help establish and promote best practice guidance, training and solutions.” For more than 90 years, Ecolab has partnered with the hotel industry to provide cleaner, safer and healthier environments for employees and guests.
“While the hotel industry was one of the first affected by the pandemic, we have collectively stepped up to serve their communities during this public health crisis. Thousands of hotels across the country, more than half of those small businesses, are working tirelessly during this uncertain time to support their employees, healthcare workers and first responders. When the time is right, hotels will be ready to safely and eagerly welcome back America’s traveling public,” concluded Rogers.
The Safe Stay Advisory Council enhanced guidelines can be found at www.ahla.com/SafeStay.
#TakeMeBack Campaign
AHLA has just launched the #TakeMeBack campaign to encourage travelers to remember their favorite hotel visits and travel experiences.
There are three ways you can share your own favorite travel memory:
Share your postcard on social media using the #TakeMeBack hashtag, and challenge friends and colleagues to do the same by tagging them in the post.
Share a Vacation Photo
Share an old vacation photo, using the hashtag #TakeMeBack.
Tag the hotel property that you visited during that vacation, tag a friend or family member(s) that you traveled with, post your photo and challenge three friends or colleagues to participate.
Take AHLA’s Instagram Challenge
Follow AHLA on Instagram (@AmericanHotelAssociation) and participate in our #TakeMeBack “This or That Challenge” and tell us why you love to travel.
Screenshot the template “This or That” card off of AHLA’s Instagram story or visitAHLA.com/TakeMeBack to download the image.
Upload the image to your Instagram story and circle your preferences.
Tag three friends and the @AmericanHotelAssociation.
Follow AHLA on social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) and visit AHLA.com/TakeMeBack for the latest campaign details. Learn more about the campaign by clicking here.
Southampton Inn Bedroom, Cooper’s Beach,Benday Sophia @Ceravolo,
Against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic and the declaration of a national emergency, the Southampton Inn on the East end of Long Island, remains open to care for guests and the wider community. While larger gatherings are currently not possible, people still need somewhere safe to stay, whether construction workers supporting emergency infrastructure projects or families trying to visit loved ones. Housekeeping protocols at the Inn meet the guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Southampton Inn wants to first reassure guests that they can book with confidence. They understand that people are concerned about the evolving situation and, specifically, scheduled overnight stays and future travel plans. To accommodate guests during this time of uncertainty, the Inn will cancel any reservations through April 15, 2020 or will credit your reservations to any available date through March 31, 2021. They are also taking the following steps to accommodate guests:
The Inn is offering a room rate
of $149/night (plus taxes and fees) for their available rooms. Sixteen of the
rooms are pet-friendly.
Claude’s Restaurant is offering
take-out breakfast options daily between 7:00am and 10:00am. The restaurant is
currently closed for dinner and Sunday brunch through March 31, 2020, and
management is monitoring the evolving guidelines.
Guests are welcome to reserve an
extended stay in June, July or August. Prices range from $11,000 – $15,000 per
month (subject to change and availability).
Despite the underlying tensions surrounding the outbreak, spring hasarrived and a welcome breath of fresh air and relaxation awaits at the Southampton Inn. Located in the heart of Long Island’s historic Southampton Village, the Inn is just one mile from gorgeous nationally recognized ocean beaches, hiking and cycling trails.
New this 2020, Claude’s Gallery inaugural exhibition features artwork by Ceravolo & Candice CMC, Charles Ford, Robin Morris and Nickol Renae. Guests can stop by for a tour or call for information about the artists. A well-stocked library provides an ideal place to relax with a book or board game.
Looking ahead, the Southampton Inn currently has a number of events planned starting in May 2020 including:
May 1 – 3 – 2020 May Day Celebration May 8 – 10 – Mother’s Day Weekend getaway and brunch May 9 – The USA Women’s Half Marathon in Southampton Village (pre-race dinner) May 14-17 – What’s New, Southampton Village? (featuring exciting and diverse promotions and events that focus on family fun, history, the arts and recreation – all designed to showcase the Village’s many offerings during one of the most beautiful times of the year). May 24 – Memorial Day Weekend Summer Kickoff Barbecue June 12 -14 – Croquet and Rosé starts June 12-14 and continues every Sunday through the summer: $50/couple includes bottle of selected rosé, croquet on the Inn’s lawn and live music.
The Southampton Inn is classic, unassuming and utterly charming. The Inn, on five acres, offers the personal attention of a bed & breakfast with the services of a hotel. The 90 guest rooms, all with slightly different decor, offer individual temperature control, sparkling tiled bathrooms, refrigerators, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The grounds consist of several acres of manicured lawns and gardens, with amenities that everyone can enjoy: 50-foot heated outdoor pool, All-weather tennis court, croquet and volleyball, Game Room for all ages, and Claude’s Restaurant.
When things return to normal, The Inn and Claude’s Restaurant are also popular, established settings for corporate retreats, meetings, reunions, destination weddings and other gatherings, combining the natural beauty of the East End of Long Island with seasonal amenities, all in one convenient location.
Located in the heart of the City of Light, steps from the Louvre, Cheval Blanc Paris, opening in 2020, combines historical, cultural and contemporary features for an authentic Parisian experience. (c) Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com
Global luxury travel network Virtuoso® is sharing its list of the most exciting properties around the world debuting over the next six months. From the eternally popular such as France and Mexico to the more exotic, including Japan and Botswana, these hotels and resorts are setting new standards in the ultra-competitive luxury space. On Virtuoso’s must-see list, historic icons meet sleek beach resorts while lodges nestled in nature complement city retreats. The common thread among them is that these properties will delight guests with their distinctive character, varied experiences and superior service.
Cheval Blanc Paris,
France – Opening Spring
2020
Located in the heart of
the City of Light, steps from the Louvre and the Marais, Cheval Blanc
Paris combines historical, cultural and contemporary features for an authentic Parisian experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows in
the 26 rooms and 46 suites offer views of famed landmarks and city life. Virtuoso
exclusives: upgrade upon arrival if available, daily full American breakfast
for two, fast-track immigration, complimentary round-trip private transfer with
VIP meet and greet, spa access, complimentary Wi-Fi and early check-in and late
check-out if available.
One&Only Mandarina,
Mexico – Opening June
2020
Set in a lush,
beachfront jungle setting, the intimate resort boasts 104 standalone villas and
treehouses – each with a private pool. Guests will have access to innovative
culinary experiences, a lively beach club, wellness programming and a
playground of adventures on land and sea. Virtuoso exclusives: upgrade
on arrival if available, daily breakfast for two, $100 USD resort credit,
complimentary Wi-Fi, early check-in and late check-out if available.
The Tokyo EDITION,
Toranomon, Japan – Opening June
2020
Located near Tokyo’s finest neighborhoods and attractions, the property will feature 206 rooms with stunning views of the city’s skyline, including 21 suites and a penthouse. A signature restaurant, cocktail bar and wellness spa will cultivate a unique, luxurious atmosphere. Virtuoso exclusives: upgrade upon arrival if available, daily breakfast for two, $100 USD hotel credit, complimentary Wi-Fi, and early check-in and late check-out if available.
Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel, Italy – Opening June 2020
A former refuge for
royalty and Hollywood’s elite, Villa Igiea occupies a unique location
overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Palermo. After a restoration, the
iconic palazzo will showcase a fresh design while maintaining its timeless
splendor. Virtuoso exclusives: upgrade on arrival if available, daily
breakfast for two, $100 USD food and beverage credit, complimentary Wi-Fi, and
early check-in and late check-out if available.
Xigera, Botswana – Opening June 2020
Xigera is defined by
exceptional service, with 105 staff looking after just 24 guests in an
intimate, exclusive bush experience. The solar-powered lodge offers 12
suspended suites surrounded by ancient trees and flood plains, showcasing
bespoke works by Africa’s most exciting young artists and craftspeople. Virtuoso
exclusives to be announced.
Virtuoso’s long-running
Hotels & Resorts program has earned a reputation for launching new hotels,
courtesy of its successful Preview initiative. The Virtuoso collection offers
more than 1,400 outstanding hotels, resorts, spas, lodges, luxury camps
and villas in over 100 countries. When booked by a Virtuoso advisor,
either directly or at www.virtuoso.com, each property offers exclusive
benefits valued at more than (U.S.) $500 per stay.
To view the network’s
portfolio of world-class properties and their amenities,
visit https://www.virtuoso.com/luxury-hotels.
Virtuoso® is a leading international travel agency network specializing in
luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises
over 1,000 travel agency partners with 20,000 elite travel advisors in 50
countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe,
Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred
relationships with over 1,800 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise
lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides
its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged
access. More than $26.4 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a
powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit
www.virtuoso.com.
ST. LUCIA – Jade
Mountain and Anse Chastanet in St. Lucia have been recertified for
the internationally renowned Travelife Gold Certification for Hotels and
Accommodations. The twin properties are the only Gold-certified accommodations
on the Caribbean island, the luxury resorts’ owners, Nick and Karolin
Troubetzkoy, announced.
Travelife, the sustainable tourism certification system, has
reassessed Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet’s performance in responsibly
managing their socioeconomic and environmental impacts. The resorts first
achieved certification in 2017 and have worked hard to maintain the title.
To gain a Travelife Gold certification, Jade Mountain and
Anse Chastanet were assessed against 88 sustainability criteria that take into
account the following environmental issues and positive social impacts:
Protecting the environment, by minimizing the
amount of energy, waste and water used;
Respecting and treating employees fairly;
Respecting the local community, including its residents and
the safeguarding of children;
Protecting the local culture, heritage, and wildlife of the
destination; and
Supporting the local economy and its businesses.
The Troubetzkoys said of the accolade: “We are
absolutely delighted to have achieved Travelife Gold Certification once again,
as environmental efforts have always been at the heart of our resorts. It is
incredibly important to us that we continue to commit to sustainability and to
supporting the local community year-over-year.”
Environmental concerns, sustainability and community efforts
are at the epicenter of Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet, with daily practices
set up to conserve water and energy and increase recycling efforts. These
include but are not restricted to the following:
The design of Jade Mountain reinforces the connection to the
natural environment with passive ventilation of the rooms and natural
day-lighting. Heating and cooling of the sanctuaries (rooms) are based entirely
on the natural rhythms and cycles of the world. Not being dependent on
artificial cooling or lighting of the rooms decreases the use of precious
energy resources and minimizes the carbon footprint of the resort.
The exterior plaza of Jade Mountain was designed to capture
all the rainwater in Koi ponds and planting areas. The plants are then
harvested for use in the resort’s restaurants.
A natural coral tile was used for exterior walkways and roof
areas. It is highly reflective and effectively diminishes any “heat
island” effect in the local micro-climate.
Potable water for the resorts is produced by collecting it
in a reservoir that was originally constructed and used by the British and
French to power the water wheels that crushed sugar cane. The reservoir was
repaired after decades of not being used and now collects over 1.5 million
gallons of water annually that is gravity-fed to a state-of-the-art water
purification system.
Only local, indigenous plants were used in the landscaping,
which minimizes the need for watering and protects a precious resource.
The resorts were the catalyst behind the coral reefs of St.
Lucia being declared a marine reserve to protect this valuable resource.
The resorts provide alternative transportation for its
employees. On a daily basis, shuttles are scheduled hourly to transport workers
from the resort to the local community, keeping carbon emissions to a minimum.
During the construction of Jade Mountain, any left-over
construction materials were distributed to the local workforce for use on their
own properties.
Construction materials that were used primarily came from
the island, reducing the use of fossil fuels for transportation and the
resultant pollution. For example, wood used was harvested from a managed
forest.
During construction, the workers were protected through the
implementation of an Indoor Air Quality plan that minimized worker’s exposure
to harmful airborne compounds.
Low emitting materials (paints, adhesives, etc.) were used
throughout the resorts, which effectively eliminated volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) that are detrimental to a person’s health.
Guests are given the opportunity to learn about the resorts’
sustainability programs and actively participate in environmental
activities such as reef cleaning and tree planting.
Nightly rates at Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain start at
$375 and $1,080, respectively, per room based on double occupancy. Rates
are subject to 10% service charge and 10% VAT. To book visit www.ansechastanet.com or www.jademountain.com.
Rising majestically above the 600-acre beachfront resort of
Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain Resort
on St. Lucia’s southwestern Caribbean coastline is a cornucopia of organic
architecture celebrating the island’s stunning scenic beauty. Architect owner
Nick Troubetzkoy has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with
Caribbean nature in his creation of Jade Mountain. The bold architectural
design – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries
and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade Mountain
one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences. For more
information, visit www.jademountain.com.
Anse Chastanet is set amid a lush 600-acre estate with two soft-sand beaches and breathtaking views of St. Lucia’s twin Pitons mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amidst St. Lucia’s lush tropical beauty, activities range from jungle biking, hiking and bird watching to snorkeling on the reef within swimming distance of the beach. The environmentally friendly, award-winning resort comprises 49 individually designed rooms, 37 of which are scattered about a lush hillside, and 12 that are nestled within a tropical garden at beach level. Innovative menus – one of which is entirely vegetarian – are offered in four different locations and feature fresh produce served up from the resort’s organic farm. Guests can partake in interactive chocolate-making classes in the resort’s chocolate laboratory and a variety of water sports are also on offer. For further information, visit www.ansechastanet.com.
