Forbes Travel Guide Stories

Cars, Interviews

Mercedes-Benz USA’s CEO Explains Why EVs Are Excellent For Road Trips

Psillakis poses with the smooth, stylish Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. Credit: Mercedes-Benz USA

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan is the kind of car that turns heads — even when it’s parked. Part Batmobile and part brainy electronic vehicle, it has an aerodynamic design that cuts wind noise, a statement-making front grill and the ability to go from 0 to 60 without so much as a grunt. And inside, the uber-sophisticated machine offers massage seats, choose-your-color dash lighting and the largest digital display ever in a Benz.

Ask Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Dimitris Psillakis and he’ll tell you that his company’s line of EV headliners, the EQE and EQS, are not only the best options on the road, but they’re smart choices for a road trip as well. “We have fast charging times on our vehicles,” says Psillakis, who’s sat in the driver’s seat at MBUSA since 2021. “We recently announced we’re building Mercedes-Benz-branded charging stations at Starbucks. We go where the customer most frequently travels.”

Psillakis would know. Based in Mercedes-Benz’s U.S. home of Atlanta, he regularly drives around the South to visit dealerships and check on facilities. In the following conversation, Psillakis explains why the lauded luxury brand’s EVs are different, why ATL traffic isn’t so bad and why his native Greece is always worthy of a visit.

The man driving Mercedes into the future. Credit: Mercedes-Benz USA

If there is one thing about the auto industry you could change, what would it be?

I think the auto industry is in a limbo situation when it comes to what technology will prevail in the future and with what speed. Obviously, I’m talking about electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles. Here we have a certain controversy. On one hand, you have the will of government regulators, which are pushing extremely hard with deadlines when it comes to short- and mid-term targets for low CO2, for low emissions. If you go to mid- and long-term targets, let’s talk about 2035, for example, we have regulations requesting all vehicles sold in 2035 to be electric or to be zero-emissions vehicles in California, Europe and other countries.

This is a hard target, but you have the controversy that electric vehicles are not [being] adopted in a quick speed and rhythm by customers. There is certain resistance. There is some questioning around it. Is it time? Do I have enough range? Do I have enough charging stations? Is the price right? There’s a lot of hesitation. Which brings me to what I said is controversy. On one hand, we need to move fast if we’re [to meet] the targets that are placed on us. But we don’t have the same acceptance by the customers.

So, if I would have one wish, it would be to align the customer demand, which drives the business, right along with the regulatory direction. We are the ones in between. We are the ones trying to satisfy customer expectations and deliver to the regulators. We have a clear direction and a clear plan to go forward and invest in and promote the right technology and satisfy the customer demand.

Mercedes-Benz has a very strong presence in the EV category. What is your brand doing that separates it from the pack?

Mercedes-Benz is a brand that stands for innovation, stands for safety, stands for comfort and stands for convenience. This is what our electric vehicles stand for. If you take the EQE or the EQS, which were products launched in the markets two or three years back in the very early stage of electric vehicle adoption, these are vehicles that immediately captured the attention of customers. We have had very good penetration in the electric vehicle market.

We see the adoption rate going down [for EVs overall], so maybe we see less appetite for electric vehicles. But [even] within this appetite, Mercedes-Benz has a strong position. This is because we sell the Mercedes of electric vehicles. We have a product that is top in technology. An example is our Hyperscreen [interior glass display]. But at the same time, we have performance. I don’t only mean we have a great 0-to-60-mile times; it’s more the range. Take the EQS, for example, which has 340 miles of range.

Psillakis road trips from Atlanta to Jacksonville. Credit: iStock-Sean Pavone Photo

In other words, the EQE and EQS are good options for family road trips?

Yes. I’ll give you personal examples. I’ve been driving the EQS more or less since I’ve been here. I’ve always traveled with my electric vehicle, going to Asheville, Charlotte or whatever for dealer visits. That was all done in my EQS Maybach. Going to a Charleston factory and visiting stores there, [too]. I went to Jacksonville, where we have a parts delivery center. I have not changed the way I drive long distances [because of] my electric vehicles. What I have to put in my plan, obviously, when I drive long stints to Jacksonville is the need to stop and charge on the way. I will not drive six, seven hours without a stop, right? I’ll take a stop somewhere for a coffee or snack. I’ll plan a break of 15 or 20 minutes. I can plan my travel on the app, which gives you options for stopping. I can plan it on my car.

If you’re traveling with your family, you have to make a stop. Obviously, it cannot be five minutes, which is the gasoline refill time. But in 15, 20 minutes, you can get 60, 70% charge on a fast charger, which is more than enough to give you another three hours of driving. So, yes, it’s feasible. But you have to change a little bit of your mindset.

Speaking of snacks, what are a few goodies that are always within arm’s reach on a road trip?

I always stop for a good lunch, dinner or a snack. I do not go for fast food. I would not go for a burger. Although it’s tasty, I would consider it not so healthy, so I would pick a place where I can grab a salad or something that is light.

And what are you listening to while you’re riding — music, sports or podcasts?

I listen to music. I have my Spotify playlist on the screen, so I don’t need to go through my mobile phone. It’s part of the conveniences in technology that Mercedes-Benz can offer. I have my playlist depending on the time [in the day]. In the morning, I’ll go for more upbeat music and a bit more motivating. During the day, I would switch to some lounge music and go more relaxed.

I would not listen to sports or news. Because for me, driving a Mercedes is a relaxing [experience]. It’s not an environment where I want to stress myself. It helps me relax. I’ll take some business calls, obviously, but mostly it’s my safe, comfortable environment to relax and get to my next destination.

Kyma is one of Psillakis’ favorite ATL restaurants. Credit: Kyma/Huff & Co.

Atlanta’s traffic can be stressful. But what are some things you do love about the city?

Contrary to many of my friends and colleagues, I don’t find the traffic in Atlanta hectic. Maybe I’m lucky where I live. Yeah, there is traffic, but come on, there 6 million people in the metro area, right? You have two major freeways [I-75 and I-85] joining and crossing Atlanta. It is a suburban area, which means people have to travel from place to place. If I didn’t want to have traffic, I would have selected a village, right? I’m okay with the traffic.

What I like is the fact that Atlanta is spread out. You have green everywhere. You have lakes. You have rivers. It’s hilly. When you fly, it looks flat, but when you ride a bicycle, you realize how not flat Atlanta is. That makes it nice and different. Lots of parks. A lot of opportunities for good hikes. There are a lot of culinary options in Atlanta I very much enjoy. And last but not least, from a business point of view, you can easily go in and go out. You are well positioned to Nashville, Asheville, Charlotte, Charleston, Savannah, Florida or whatever. It’s well situated for driving. But also, flying out of the airport here is a blessing.

Give me a couple of your favorite Atlanta restaurants.

Kyma, the Greek restaurant. The chef is very nice. The food he’s created is very healthy. You can go and have lamb if you want, but it has excellent fish and some good healthy Mediterranean plates cooked with olive oil. I’m also promoting my country a little bit to you guys. But beyond that, I would also pick The Varsity. It’s classic and simple. I understand that it’s also a point of interest for visitors and Atlantans. It has a little bit of history.

Psillakis’ native Greece. Credit: iStock-S Hansche

How often do you get back to Greece?

Not as often as I would like to go. It’s home. That’s where I born. I spent half of my life in Greece. I have my family down there. I go twice a year. I was there in July for a week. I’m going to go again over Christmas time. Summertime in Greece is nice beaches, good food and sitting outside for late dinners. Lots of sun. And then it’s the winter in Greece, which is more for the Greeks. It’s less touristy. It’s quieter. The winters are mild. I would say the winters in Greece, especially the southern part, are like the winters in Atlanta. You get a couple of cold days, but you always have the sun shining.

What are some of your other favorite places around the globe?

Look, I’m very privileged because I had the chance to work and live in different places around the globe, in different continents, in different time zones, in different countries, in different weather conditions. I obviously lived in Greece and studied in the U.K. I worked in Germany. So, Europe I know pretty well. I also lived in South America, in Brazil. I traveled and had responsibility for the whole of South America. I’ve basically traveled in almost every country in South America. I have traveled a lot in the eastern part of Asia: China, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, Hong Kong.

Being here now in North America, it’s a great opportunity. I consider myself very, very privileged being given this opportunity. If you ask me where I would like to go back again, I would definitely pick places where it’s warm, have sea around you and where I get to see nice, friendly and hospitable people. Southeast Asian countries, the Caribbean and southern Europe [come to mind]. I would say southern Spain and southern Italy. These are places where I would see myself spending more time. You would not see me going to Alaska. For an adventure, I’d do it, but I don’t like to spend time in places with long nights and cold weather. You’d stay too much inside and that is not my style.

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Guide, Hotels

Why You Should Visit This Bali Hideaway

Raffles Bali is the epitome of a tranquil oasis. Credit: Raffles Bali

Shrouded by trees and carefully tended gardens among the hills hovering over Jimbaran Bay, Raffles Bali offers a hushed, secluded sanctuary.

With only 32 pool villas sprawled across 57 acres, the resort has an air of exclusivity. Eighty percent of the property is natural — verdant grounds, bright flowers, small waterfalls and a private beach. Upon arriving, you’ll find yourself instinctively exhaling as you relax into this tranquil oasis.

Opened in 2020, the Bali hotel carries forward a rich legacy. Raffles Hotels & Resorts began in 1887 with the debut of its Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Singapore flagship, one of the oldest and most storied luxury hotels worldwide. The brand has long been synonymous with heritage landmark properties, like its dazzling Paris palace and the stately London Old War Office.

As Raffles moves ahead with new openings (a second Singapore location and a Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, outpost will arrive this year) — it’s set to double its hotel count by 2025 — it’s been branching out with urban hotels (like Boston and Doha) and resort getaways. This is where Raffles Bali comes in.

Here are five reasons you should visit this Bali hideaway.

The sprawling Presidential Villa. Credit: Raffles Bali

The Villas

You’ll be reluctant to leave these luxuriant confines. Starting at 4,036 square feet, the pool villas are the largest in Jimbaran. Each is a sprawling sanctuary — fuchsia flowers, spiky pandan leaves and other greenery encircle a private infinity pool overlooking the sapphire Indian Ocean. A terrace with chaise lounges, a palapa-shaded daybed and a dining table allow you ample choices when you want to linger around the water vista. While Raffles Bali offers a 25-meter outdoor infinity pool, most guests opt for their own.

The villas feel like homes. A stone fence encloses the standalone structure and includes tall black wooden double doors. These open to reveal your tropical garden and the villa’s intricately carved wooden entrance.

Once inside, you’ll find a refined, modern Bali haven with chocolate hardwood floors and rattan furniture. A batik tapestry covers the wall behind the plush bed. And minibars come stocked with local company JWU Botanicals’ tonics, like the immune-boosting Bali Turmeric with ginger, honey, lime and black pepper.

Bathrooms beckon with a deep-soaking tub and separate shower, though there’s also an outdoor shower if you want to refresh yourself in the sunshine.

An idyllic setting for an intimate spa treatment. Credit: Raffles Bali

The Spa

Raffles Spa offers an even more serene experience. Intimate with just two indoor treatment suites and an open-air hillside suite for those seeking a closer connection with nature, the spa’s warm wood-clad interiors exude a sense of comfort throughout. Each indoor suite opens onto a terrace, where a circular tub overlooks lush foliage, providing a scenic post-treatment relaxation spot.

Every service starts with a soothing foot ritual. Slip your feet into a fragrant peppermint soak sprinkled with rose petals. Afterward, they get misted with peppermint spray. The spa specializes in Balinese and other Southeast Asian services, ranging from a traditional Balinese massage (which involves kneading, stretching, skin rolling and acupressure) to a soul blessing (a Balinese ceremony that includes palm reading). No matter which you choose, it will likely involve reiki — all therapists are certified reiki healers and incorporate its energy healing into treatments.

After our Raffles Bali Signature Massage, which included calming our chakras and a coconut oil scalp massage for our third eye, we felt far looser and more relaxed. We capped our experience with the spa’s nourishing spicy ginger tea.

Have dinner in the Secret Cave. Credit: Raffles Bali

Special Dining Experiences

Whether you want to pop the question or offer a smaller romantic gesture, the luxury hotel curates unforgettable special dining experiences.

The open-air Purnama Bale, perched on rocks at the property’s edge, seems to float above the ocean. The dramatic setting is popular among honeymooners. If you prefer to immerse yourself instead in Bali’s lush landscape, the Farm Terrace seats you under a passion fruit pergola surrounded by greenery.

Perhaps the most extraordinary of Raffles Bali’s special occasion venues is the Secret Cave. Follow a winding pathway to a quiet limestone cave softly illuminated with candlelight and torches and soft music playing in the background. The personalized menu, designed to resemble an antiqued treasure map, guides you through a seven-course journey around seasonal local ingredients. Culinary treasures included artfully composed dishes like a local goat cheese and heirloom carrot panna cotta with an elaborate design on top and house-smoked Tabanan free-range duck breast strips rolled into roses; hollowed-out onions stuffed with foie gras accompanied by tamarind gel and buckwheat crumbs; and slow-roasted wagyu with potato risotto and king mushrooms.

Lobster at Loloan Beach Bar & Grill. Credit: Raffles Bali

Food and Drinks

Rumari, the resort’s signature restaurant, occupies the highest point of the property, offering a great vantage point to watch airplanes flying against the silhouette of Mount Batur before landing at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. You can plane-spot on the terrace over breakfast like bubuh Bali (a pandan rice porridge with tuna sambal matah) or a croffle (a croissant-Belgian waffle hybrid) topped with cubes of juicy mango and basil-coconut sauce. Add on a well-being elixir, like the Perfect Remedy, an inflammation-blasting mix of beetroot, carrot, orange and ginger, or a tea like the immunity-boosting hibiscus, a sweet-tart local blend.

Once sunset arrives, the dark-wood-filled Rumari adopts a more upscale, sophisticated vibe. Select the seven- or nine-course menu to explore contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine (with optional mocktail or cocktail pairings). The Bali restaurant makes dinner interactive with a menu map that illustrates your food’s origins and a playful paper fortune teller explaining the restaurant’s sourcing philosophy — 80% of the seasonal ingredients come from the archipelago and 20% are imported. You’ll savor standouts like Bali bamboo lobster three ways (shredded with young mango, tempura and carpaccio) and North Sumatra heritage pork crowned with pork rinds and a side of tomato-chile chutney.

For a more casual atmosphere, Loloan Beach Bar & Grill provides alfresco dining near the pool and ocean. Don’t miss its adults-only Sunday brunch (the second and fourth Sundays), an indulgent feast featuring dish after dish, including truffle croissants with pumpkin puree for slathering; a seafood platter teeming with oysters, crab, Kaviari caviar, prawns and otoro tuna on ice; and wagyu tenderloin with potato espuma. The artisanal cheese board impresses — servers present a large spread of local options like Mazaraat farm’s creamy Brie and Moon River Dairy’s nutty Amaya cheddar, along with crackers, fruit and honey (drench everything in the delectable mango honey). Exquisite desserts arrive in small log canoes, followed by a petit fours buffet.

Upgrade to the Italian brunch for accompanying Italian wines, French for French pours, Luxury for a bottle of Krug champagne and other wines and Royal for a bottle of Dom Pérignon and more selections.

Be sure to visit The Writers Bar, where you can sip the Bali Sling, a riff on Raffles Singapore’s iconic cocktail with gin, arak (a Balinese spirit made of fermented sap), Dom Benedictine, spiced syrup, lemon juice, bitters, jackfruit puree, soursop, grenadine and soda.

The staff ensures you have a reviving vacation. Credit: Raffles Bali

The Butlers

A hallmark of the Raffles brand is that all guests receive butler service. At Raffles Bali, the concept has been thoughtfully adapted to align with the island being a destination for those seeking spiritual and personal renewal. Raffles Bali’s wellbeing butlers tackle the tasks of traditional butlers — available around the clock, they do things like shuttle you around the property in an electric buggy and score reservations at a waiting-list-only restaurant — while also focusing on integrating wellness enhancements into all aspects of your stay.

These butlers act as your personal wellness concierge, offering tailored recommendations that extend far beyond standard spa treatments. They can do everything from create a calming atmosphere in your villa to arranging a private yoga or meditation class to ensure you find the serenity you seek. The wellbeing butlers’ attention to detail is evident in the small but meaningful touches they provide. After a long international flight, you might find a soothing herbal tea waiting in your villa that eases you into a reviving vacation.

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Guide, Hotels

The Refreshed Hong Kong Hotel We Can’t Stop Thinking About

Lanson Place Causeway Bay’s new clean, chic look. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Set in the heart of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong’s buzzing fashion and culture district, Lanson Place’s flagship property recently emerged from a head-to-toe transformation led by Pierre-Yves Rochon, the esteemed French interior designer best known for his work on opulent hospitality spaces like the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Shangri-La Paris, the Five-Star Peninsula Shanghai and the Five-Star Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.

Sporting plenty of French flair, the refreshed Lanson Place Causeway Bay blends contemporary luxury with warm hospitality, creating an urban haven for travelers who love to be in the center of the action. 

Once you walk through the hotel doors, you’ll leave the city’s high-speed energy behind. Greeting guests is a sanctuary of serenity, starting with the clean white lobby where a bas-relief by French artist Michele Létang serves as a magnificent backdrop behind the marble reception desk. Next to the lobby, the vibrant L’Orangerie space welcomes guests to unwind amid the warm terracotta hues, sumptuous furniture and mirrored ceilings.

And that’s just the beginning. From refreshed rooms to creative cocktails, Lanson Place is filled with elegant upgrades. Here are six of our favorite aspects of the Hong Kong hotel.

Guest rooms are filled with soft colors and natural light. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Serene New Rooms

The newly updated 188 rooms, suites and penthouse residences at Lanson Place Causeway Bay provide several residential-style configurations, so you can choose the layout that suits you best. The French-inspired accommodations range in size from 380 to 2,000 square feet and feature soft palettes, curved lines and mirrored accents. Moreover, dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows fill the spaces with natural light, offering splendid views of the Causeway Bay neighborhood to the north and the lush mountains to the south. 

For an unforgettable stay, book a spacious Prestige Suite. More than half of these units overlook lush Victoria Park — a calming green space amid the bustling city — and include several thoughtful touches, such as a separate living room and kitchenette with complementary artwork. Prestige Suites can also be connected to an XL Guest Room, creating one massive family residence. 

The lovely L’Orangerie. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Top-Notch Amenities

Though the design feels French, the experience integrates many local touches. Upon entering your hotel room, you’ll find a delightful Hong Kong treat waiting for you, like dragon’s beard candies, pineapple buns or refreshing Saicho sparkling tea.  

The amenities are on point, too. We love the Dyson hairdryers, Nespresso machines, premium Codage Paris bath products, yoga mats, a dozen types of pillows (foam, buckwheat, memory foam, Mediflow water and pocket coils are all here) and super-snug Sealy mattresses in every guest room.  

A self-service laundry room is not something rarely seen in upmarket hotels, though we’d argue it should be everywhere. If you love heading home with a suitcase full of clean clothes, take advantage of this convenient space, open 24 hours a day.

The pristine Penthouse. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

All-New Penthouses  

If you plan to stay for at least two weeks, live it up in a one- or two-bedroom Penthouse. Exclusive to extended stays, these beauties feel like a home away from home with up to 2,000 square feet to call your own. 

Inside, you’ll discover beautifully designed bedrooms and living spaces, a washer-dryer and a large kitchenette equipped with premium Smeg and Le Creuset gear. The kitchen spaces also feature a full-sized fridge and dishwasher — rare in Hong Kong — to ensure guests have everything they need for longer visits. 

Sample the brilliant breakfast buffet. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Exclusive Dining 

Only overnight guests can experience the hotel’s restaurant and bar, which means they’re never too crowded or overbooked. Oozing Parisian elegance, Salon Lanson features ethereal cream and turquoise tones, with billowing drapes and a custom Murano glass chandelier. 

In this inviting space, you can sit for a leisurely breakfast, lunch, dinner or evening cocktails. For breakfast, there’s a semi-buffet, while the lunch and dinner menus span Eastern and Western favorites, like superfood salads, crab coquettes, wagyu burgers, Hainan chicken rice, Malaysian laksa and USDA prime ribeye.  

For the best seat in the house, sit in the intimate Winter Garden within Salon Lanson. In this atmospheric corner, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and handcrafted mosaic tiles splashed across the walls and floors, while a balcony window affords views of Causeway Bay.

Try one of the exquisite cocktails. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Creative Drinks

Over at the bar, the mixologist experiments with textures and flavors, whipping up riffs on classics like the Untrimmed Martini (vodka, housemade vermouth, coffee liqueur and espresso) and the Memoire de Lalique. The latter is a play on the Negroni featuring an uplifting mix of gin, strawberry, coconut oil, Campari and housemade vermouth.

Club-level guests enjoy an exclusive cocktail offering with seven rotating menus inspired by local landmarks. Presented with artsy postcards of Hong Kong neighborhoods, the cocktails capture the spirit of the city’s evolution. For example, the Dragon Dance mirrors the vibrant hues of the fire dragon parades that light up Tai Hang’s streets during the Mid-Autumn Festival, while the Yum Cha Sour (whisky, Darjeeling, red wine, lemon and egg white) offers a Hong Kong twist on the whisky sour.  

Work out in the polished fitness center. Credit: Lanson Place Causeway Bay

Zen Wellness Facilities

Awash in warm woods and lush greenery, the fitness center will motivate you to squeeze in a workout or two during your stay. 

It has all the essentials — think weights and state-of-the-art cardio equipment — plus a dedicated room for barre, Pilates and yoga. A calendar of complimentary fitness classes and workshops includes favorites like gong baths, full-body sculpt, morning flow and more. 

While there’s no spa, Lanson Place has partnered with an external service to provide in-room massage services when guests book specific packages. 

Speaking of relaxation, Lanson Place has developed a signature aroma, Golden Bamboo, which envelops the public areas in warmth and serenity. The earthy, citrusy blend of sun-kissed bamboo, satsuma mandarins, roses, cedarwood and white amber is just what the senses need after a long day exploring the area.  

While upgrades abound, a few things remain unchanged: a fantastic location in the heart of Hong Kong, captivating views of Victoria Park and the surrounding city, and attentive service from start to finish.

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Lists, Outdoors

5 Bucket-List Adventures For Nature Lovers

Things can get really wild at Nairobi’s Giraffe Manor. Credit: Giraffe Manor

Lazing your days away on a white sand beach is all well and good, but sometimes you need a little more getup in your getaway. Luxury hotels across the globe are heeding the call of adventurous travelers looking to up the ante on their vacations, all while communing with the world around them.

Whether meeting wild animals face to face or exploring an ice cave so remote that it requires a helicopter, these bucket-list adventures might inspire your nature-loving spirit to explore further, farther and faster.

Meet Giraffes in Kenya

Embark on an epic adventure to encounter some of the planet’s most elusive animals during a new 10-night excursion from The Safari Collection in Kenya. Join some of the leading giraffe conservation experts in the field as they track three of the world’s four giraffe species — the Rothschild’s/Nubian, reticulated and Masai — and even enjoy hands-on activities with the remarkable creatures.

Accommodations at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Giraffe Manor, which include breakfast with the fun-loving giraffes, photo opportunities with the resident warthogs and time in the relaxing Retreat day room, will help etch the journey in your memory for years.

Make unbelievable memories in Moab. Credit: Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa

Explore the Wild West in Utah

Among the most majestic sites in the United States, Moab is a nature lover’s dream. Red rock formations as far as the eye can see invite endless adventures, and that’s precisely what you’ll find at Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa. The rustic-chic escape offers nearly every activity, including whitewater rafting, UTV riding, hot air ballooning, canyoneering and skydiving. Guided hikes through top Utah attractions like Canyonlands and Arches national parks are also available for those looking to take it slow.

Rejuvenate from your outdoor adventure with a pampering session in the hotel’s stellar spa.

Reconnect with Mother Nature in Puerto Rico. Credit: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

Soar Through the Jungle in Puerto Rico

Your beach vacation meets the bucket list at Puerto Rico’s Five-Star Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Not only is the resort stunning, but it boasts a full roster of locally inspired adventures that help you connect with the Caribbean island’s unique natural surroundings. Hiking, stargazing and sailing are all available through the luxury hotel, though one awe-inspiring activity soars above the crowd. When you book an excursion to Toro Verde Adventure Park in the mountainous region of Orocovis, you’ll fly above the jungle canopy on the longest zipline in the Western Hemisphere.

Don’t leave without checking out the souvenir photo of your flight, which you can purchase (along with post-adventure paletas, or ice pops) in the gift shop.

Whistler's ice caves
Go on an icy adventure in Canada. Credit: Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver

Discover a Remote Ice Cave in British Columbia

Take a trip back in time when you explore Whistler’s remote ice caves, courtesy of Five-Star Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver. The luxury hotel ensures that the journey is extra comfortable thanks to a private chauffeur from Vancouver to an airfield where you’ll transfer via helicopter to the isolated caves. After landing, you’ll take a guided trek of the spectacular natural formation complete with a photographer to capture every Instagram-worthy moment.

If that itinerary isn’t exciting enough, reserve a private five-course lunch inside the cave, a two-hour post-excursion spa treatment or a mixology lesson with 12,000-year-old cave ice collected during your out-of-this-world outing. 

See central Amman and much more. Credit: iStock_Jui-ChiChan

Experience the Desert in Jordan

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is a must-visit on any dreamy jaunt to Jordan. But while you’re discovering the desert’s mysteries, take some time to connect with your natural surroundings and the people who call the region home. Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Amman offers just this opportunity with a cultural excursion to the ancient desert city of Umm Qais.

There, visit local women who will show you a day in their life (including how to forage in the mountains and weave baskets) before helping to revive the arid landscape via a handmade seed ball and relishing in a sunset picnic overlooking the desert landscape.

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Hotels, Interviews

Express Check-In: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club GM Vanessa Williams

The Vinoy’s fearless leader. Credit: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection

Vanessa Williams gets it. The general manager of Tampa’s The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection understands that a great hotel is like a theatrical production — everything must work in harmony for the show to go properly. Yes, you need reliable housekeeping and great food and drinks, but it means nothing if a friendly valet attendant doesn’t set the stage when guests pull up.

“I interview [all the staff] in the hotel,” says Williams, who was the GM at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills before joining The Vinoy in 2022. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t speak English. I’ll have a translator with me, but we’re going to meet. We’re going to talk. The valet parking company is not even ours. But I am so passionate about the fact that that is the first person any guest that arrives at this hotel will interact with [that I want to interview them first].”

When she isn’t ensuring all aspects of The Vinoy’s property-wide refresh are going well before the hotel’s 100th anniversary in 2025, Williams enjoys spending time in the kitchen, walking her dog and enjoying Tampa’s bustling art scene. And as you’ll see in the following interview, she’s got a knack for answering rapid-fire questions, too.

The Vinoy celebrates its 100th year in 2025. Credit: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection

What are some Tampa area must-visit attractions?

All you need to do is travel to St. Petersburg, stay at The Vinoy and you’re within walking distance of absolutely world-class museums. We’ve got the Dalí Museum. It’s all housed here in just a beautiful museum experience.

What’s a can’t-miss restaurant in Tampa?

We have a very strong Cuban influence in the Tampa Bay market. Anybody who wants to have an authentic Cuban experience, Ybor City has some of the most amazing restaurants and incredible food.

How do you relax in Tampa?

As a GM, I don’t think I ever don’t think about work. You know what I’ve learned over the years? To balance my life.

What’s a destination you can go to over and over again?

Japan.

Favorite room view — a beach, downtown or nature?

I love them all.

Tampa’s must-visit Dalí Museum. Credit: iStock-Sean Pavone Photo

What’s your favorite hotel amenity?

When I open the door to a guest room or a suite and it smells great.

What’s your favorite room service order?

A really good hamburger with french fries.

What’s your favorite minibar snack?

I probably lean into things like M&Ms.

What’s your favorite cocktail?

I’m a martini girl. I do a martini with no vermouth and three olives.

When you’re traveling, what are a few essentials that are always in your luggage?

I always carry a hair dryer. As hoteliers, we are getting a lot better [with having them in rooms], but we’re not where we need to be in terms of having a quality hair dryer in a luxury hotel.

What’s your go-to airport outfit?

I generally dress up, but I will wear comfortable shoes.

What movie can you watch over and over on a plane?

I’m not a big movie person, but I do love documentaries.

Inside the stunning Vinoy. Credit: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection

Do you have an on-the-road wellness routine?

If I can’t get into the gym, I’ll definitely walk. I build in a good hour of walking every day. Sleep is super important, too.

Who do you admire most in the hospitality industry?

I often think about how fortunate I’ve been in my career to have the general managers that I had in the last 30 years. They were all very different. My general managers were the ones that were the toughest on me, but they taught me the most.

What’s the worst hospitality trend you’ve seen?

You can check into a luxury hotel, and they don’t have a minibar. Why? I know we didn’t do it during COVID for a reason, but for me to open a refrigerator in a hotel room and it’s empty is [not good].

What’s a trend in hospitality that you like?

I love the personalization of amenities. I recently traveled to India, and they have entire wings in a hotel that are just geared to female travelers traveling on their own. I absolutely love the fact that everything in that room was geared to a female traveler, from nail polish remover to a pretty robe.

What’s an overrated culinary trend?

Celebrity chef-run restaurants.

What does hospitality mean to you?

Hospitality is creating a space for people to make memories.

If you could change one thing about the travel industry, what would it be?

I think there were a lot of young people in our industry that we lost [after the pandemic]. I think that is something that we’re going to have to claw back because our industry needs young people to come into the trade.

Williams learned a lot as Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills’ GM. Credit: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

What’s the best piece of advice you got from someone in the hotel industry?

Don’t be afraid.

What’s the most underrated trait of a good leader?

I think what’s underrated is that people don’t understand the amount of time that we spend with people. It probably consumes 70% of what I do.

What is your proudest career accomplishment?

My legacy is that I don’t lower the bar. I won’t lower the bar. And if I have to, then I’m not in the right place.

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Guide, Travel Tips

Hong Kong’s Hidden Travel Gems

The Krug Room’s classy confines. Credit: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong/The Krug Room

A dynamic destination like Hong Kong always has something new to discover. Even if you’ve visited a dozen times, the city will surprise you with its rich cultural experiences, hidden bars and stunning natural scenery. 

If you’ve already explored the usual sights and activities — or simply want to see another side of things — dig deeper on your next visit with seven of Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets. 

Plan a one-of-a-kind dinner date 

In Central, dine like culinary royalty at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star The Krug Room, hidden inside the Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. It’s the only one outside France, and you’ll need help finding it.

A few minutes before your reservation begins, meet your server at The Chinnery then follow him through a swinging door and down a hallway lined with candles. Turn a corner, and an elegantly designed space that feels like an Old World train carriage appears out of nowhere. Offering a view of the buzzing hotel kitchen, the white marble table has just 12 seats. Book a few spots or the whole room to enjoy 10 to 14 artistic courses by executive chef Robin Zavou paired with Krug champagnes. Each multi-sensory course arrives with dramatic presentations and storytelling to delight your taste buds and spark your imagination.

If you can’t snag a dinner reservation, check out the Krug-tasting sessions on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, with delicious snacks from Zavou.    

Travel back in time to Lai Chi Wo 

Originally home to a community of Hakka people, an ethnic group that migrated from northern China, this 350-year-old walled village is one of the oldest and largest settlements in Hong Kong. Inside Lai Chi Wo, you’ll find more than 200 well-preserved houses, temples and ancestral halls, some of which have been remodeled into shops and cafés. 

After admiring the architecture, follow the short Lai Chi Wo Nature Trail to explore the surrounding “fung shui” woods, farmlands and coastal mangrove forests. Fair warning: It’s a trek. The village is accessible via a scenic 10-mile hike or a 1.5-hour ferry service (from Ma Liu Shui Public Pier, about 30 minutes from Central), so plan your day trip in advance.   

The Shopfloor. Credit: The Mills

Weave in some textile history 

If you’re a culture maven, you’ll undoubtedly have hot spots like Tai Kwun, PMQ and the West Kowloon Cultural District — home to M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum — on your radar. But if you’re keen to venture off the beaten path, head over to The Mills in Tsuen Wan, about 30 minutes on the MTR from Central. At this destination for heritage and innovation, industry giant Nan Fung Textiles Limited transformed its former cotton-spinning mills into a creative revitalization complex devoted to Hong Kong’s fashion and textile industry. 

In addition to exploring fascinating relics, seasonal exhibitions, beautiful murals and architectural details at the textile heritage museum dubbed CHAT (Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile), you can partake in hands-on workshops and tours. Afterward, enjoy a meal at one of the artisanal restaurants or shop for eco-conscious lifestyle products and indie fashion on The Mills Shopfloor. One of the boutiques, Fabrica X, features creations from The Mills Fabrica, an accelerator for sustainable fashion technology and agri-food startups.  

A secret spot for souvenirs. Credit: Yuet Tung China Works

Take home a piece of porcelain  

For Hong Kong souvenirs that you’ll treasure forever, find your way to Yuet Tung China Works. Concealed in a commercial building in Kowloon Bay, this treasure trove of hand-painted ceramics overflows with racks of high-quality porcelain, from decorative tableware to vases, lamp bases and even children’s cups and bowls. 

Specializing in guang cai (a style of overglaze decoration dating to the Qing Dynasty), the family-run company was established nearly 100 years ago in 1928 and is one of the last of its kind in Hong Kong. Amid the store’s narrow aisles and jam-packed shelves, you’ll likely see an artist at work, hand-painting tiny flowers and animals onto delicate pieces.  

Catch a delicious pop-up  

Looking for a low-key night out? Don’t miss a chance to experience a pop-up dinner at Test Kitchen. Located in a cool, loft-style warehouse in Sai Ying Pun, a vibrant neighborhood west of Central, this experimental space invites chefs worldwide to showcase their limited-time menus. 

Past experiences have included everything from a Danish pastry journey and Balinese feast to a farm-to-table menu by influential Hong Kong chef Devon Hou, who has worked at Five-Star establishments such as Amber and the Mandarin Grill + Bar. 

The intimate Please Don’t Tell. Credit: The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

Track down killer cocktails 

Whether tucked away in nondescript commercial buildings or hidden behind playful facades, Hong Kong bars are fun to find. The city’s first speakeasy-style lounge, 001, recently moved from its original location amid the bustling market stalls on Graham Street to an even harder-to-find spot in Tai Kwun. Wander deep into a converted prison and navigate a maze of hallways, stairwells and seemingly identical black prison doors until you spot a discreet vintage doorbell — your ticket inside. Once you’re in, sip on a signature Earl Grey Martini, reminiscent of a gin sour, at this jazzy, jewel-toned cocktail bar. 

While the night’s still young, slink over to Five-Star The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. Head up the stairs and step inside the vintage phone booth at the back of MO Bar. Push any button to enter PDT (Please Don’t Tell) — a collaboration with the famed New York cocktail bar. With just 25 seats, the intimate, wood-clad space feels a world away from the busy streets of Central.

Savor a Benton’s Old Fashion, a locally inspired gourmet hot dog (like the Typhoon Shelter Dog) and “Cheung Fun” tater tots to get the full experience. Alternatively, you can join one of the Sunday School cocktail masterclasses for a spirited day out. 

Make a secret splash 

If you love a great hike with sea views, plan a day trip to the Ap Lei Pai tide pool to see another side of Hong Kong. Take the MTR down to the South Side, near Aberdeen, and hop off at Lei Tung station (Exit B) on Ap Lei Chau island. Walk south on Lei Tung Estate Road until you see a McDonald’s on the left. Straight ahead, two yellow booths mark the start of the hidden trailhead. From there, follow the short but challenging 2.2-mile coastal loop. Steep concrete steps will take you up the hill, past a playground and onto a dirt trail over Mount Johnston, then across a narrow sandbar onto Ap Lei Pai island. 

You’ll spot the white Mount Johnson Lighthouse at the island’s southern tip. Continue around the coastline, and you’ll find the tide pool about 350 feet to the right. Clamber down the rocks into the pool, soak up the serene atmosphere, then hire a local sampan boat or hike back to Aberdeen. There’s little shade on this hike, so we’d recommend going on an overcast day or early in the morning. Be sure to pack lots of water, gloves, shoes with good grip and sun protection. 

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