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Patrick Dempsey’s Need For Speed And A Good Travel Playlist
By Forbes Travel Guide Editor DeMarco Williams

November 19, 2024

Patrick Dempsey can switch lanes with the best of them. He was the lead actor in many TV watchers’ dreams for his portrayal of Dr. Derek Shepherd in 250-plus episodes of Grey’s Anatomy. But the man who was named People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2023 also has reoccurring roles in your nightmares. After all, he did play a sheriff in the holiday slasher Thanksgiving last year and will star in the upcoming dark Showtime series Dexter: Original Sin.

Oh, and then there are the literal lanes that Dempsey swerves in. A passionate race car driver who owns Dempsey Racing, the Ferrari star gets behind the wheel of 394-horsepowered machines as often as possible, which explains why he’s the perfect person to endorse the exquisite TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Porsche 963 watch. Forbes Travel Guide recently took a quick lap around with Dempsey to talk about racing cars, taking road trips and missing home.

Where do you find ultimate happiness, on a film set or behind the wheel of a race car?
I find ultimate happiness when I am behind the wheel of a race car. I’m so happy and grateful to be back racing. I truly have missed racing so much and I am enjoying being back on the track.

I also do find happiness working on a film, especially when I enjoy the script and am challenged by playing a different type of character. When the camera is rolling, the hardest part is waiting. When I am in the car, the hardest part is the downtime for me.

How did you fall in love with cars?
My love of cars started when I was very young. My father loved racing, so it started with him.

What is it about TAG Heuer that made you want to partner with the brand?
TAG Heuer was a sponsor and that is how the relationship started. I am very proud to have a partnership with TAG Heuer. I was happy to be a part of that racing history.

Pit stops to Maine are a must for the actor. *Credit: iStock-Sean Pavone Photo*

How much thought do you put into your timepiece when packing for a getaway?
It really depends on where I am going, what new watch has been released and what activity [I’m doing on the trip]. I usually bring a vintage watch and the watch that is part of a new campaign. If I am racing, I usually bring lighter-weight watches. But it really depends on what the event is. I try to match my watch. I arrived for the Road America race and I brought the [TAG Heuer] Monza watch and the Dark Lord Monaco.

Tell me a few tracks that make up the Patrick Dempsey road trip playlist.
My playlist is really eclectic. I love jazz, techno, old rock ’n’ roll, classic rock and pop music. I like a little bit of everything. The one thing I do travel with is the KCRW app. I find that to be a great source of not only the news, but public radio stations here in the U.S. I travel around the world and always listen to the news and music.

You grew up in Maine. What do you miss most about the Northeast?
I get back to Maine quite a bit, but the one thing I do miss while living in L.A. is the change of the seasons. I just absolutely love when the seasons change.

Your Instagram feed is filled with trips to Italy, Monaco and other places. Where are you excited to visit next?
I very much enjoy being in Europe. Unfortunately, I am shooting in L.A. for the rest of the year and won’t be able to do a lot of travel to Europe. But I am very grateful to have a job in California. I’m just not able to travel as much as I would like right now.

What acting projects do you have coming up next?
I am currently filming Dexter: Original Sin, which [will premiere on streaming Dec. 13 on Paramount+ with Showtime, and debut Dec. 15 on Showtime].

Hotels, Lists

25 Most Anticipated Hotel Openings Of 2025
By Forbes Travel Guide

November 18, 2024

Dubai's Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab — Dubai’s Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab will feature a superyacht marina. *Credit: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab*

Every year, Forbes Travel Guide rates the finest hotels, spas, cruises and restaurants in the world, but its editors and ratings team are always scouring the globe for the most anticipated luxury hotel openings.

For 2025, the emphasis is on wellness getaways, city-center stays, remote retreats and other hotels that will make guests want to rethink old favorites and be among the first to check into a new property. From a stunning sanctuary rising from the Arizona desert to a snow-capped masterpiece coming to Italy, 2025’s best new hotels include a galaxy of future Four- and Five-Star properties.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Dubai

This superyacht-like hotel (top) will drop anchor next to the sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the wave-inspired Jumeirah Beach Hotel. The Dubai brand’s newest architectural marvel will have 386 accommodations, five pools, a three-story spa with 13 treatment suites that come with terraces and, fittingly, an 82-berth superyacht marina. But the property will truly make waves with its 11 restaurants and nine bars.

Waldorf Astoria San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

A central Mexico city known for its timeless architecture and colonial sensibilities, San Miguel de Allende will get a jolt of modernity when this Waldorf Astoria opens in early 2025. The high-end brand is strengthening its presence in the country with a 120-room, 24-residence property that will include a lavish spa, a meditation area, an on-site art gallery and three restaurants—all in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Faena New York

When Faena debuts in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood in the spring, it will be a red beacon in a sea of greige hotels. The design team that devised the aesthetics for Faena properties in Buenos Aires and Miami will add the same dramatic, whimsical touches to the 120 rooms and suites overlooking the High Line. Faena also will feature the Tierra Santa Healing House spa and sizzling nightlife.

The Lake Como EDITION

Italy’s third-biggest lake has been a draw for European nobles and elite travelers since the 18th century. With Marriott’s Edition taking over for the weathered Britannia Excelsior Hotel, that trend should only continue. This re-envisioned Lake Como stay with sparkling water and mountain vistas will also include 145 rooms, a floating pool and a host of restaurants and bars done with the Edition’s subtle, sophisticated touch.

Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort

For Naples, Florida, to be a city of less than 20,000 people, it carries a hefty share of luxury hotels. To stand out from the competitive crowd, the Four Seasons’ new 216-room Beach Club plans to woo with outdoor lounges, a beachside garden, numerous dining options, stellar waterfront looks and a 58-unit private residence village.

Corinthia Rome

The site of the former Central Bank of Italy will be a traveler’s treasure trove when it opens in the summer as Corinthia’s first hotel in the country. The 1914 neoclassical palazzo is minutes from sights like the Pantheon, it will have 60 lavish accommodations and a spa, and it will debut restaurants from noted chef Carlo Cracco encircling a lush courtyard.

Montana's One&Only Moonlight Basin — One&Only Moonlight Basin will be a breathtaking Big Sky property. *Credit: One&Only Moonlight Basin*

One&Only Moonlight Basin, Big Sky, Montana

This majestic Montana hideaway will serve as One&Only’s sole U.S. property, offering premium access to the beauty of Big Sky in the form of hikes, rock climbing and fly fishing. Olson Kundig designed the 73 rooms and 19 cabins with warm woods and floor-to-ceiling windows that stun in every season.

Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo Del Sol

Sitting along the Sea of Cortez, the Park Hyatt will give guests a view of the water from all 163 sand-hued accommodations and the three ocean-facing pools. But you will also want to visit to try the top-notch golf course, the beach club and the 59,000-square-foot wellness center with a spa, yoga studio and lap pool.

Fairmont Golden Prague

This riverside Brutalist landmark will get a new life as a hotel with 320 stylish contemporary rooms and suites (including 44 Fairmont Gold accommodations that come with access to a lounge), striking Czech art and glass pieces throughout the property, six restaurants and bars, and a 15,000-square-foot spa featuring treatment suites that open to private gardens.

Mandarin Oriental Cristallo, Cortina

By taking over the historic Hotel Cristallo in mountainous Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, this new Mandarin Oriental becomes the brand’s first alpine getaway. As if that weren’t enticing enough, the opening of the amenity-filled property (83 rooms, extensive dining options, an indoor-outdoor pool) comes in advance of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which will host some events less than 20 miles from the hotel.

Capella Kyoto

Japan’s first Capella hotel will embrace the local culture. In the Miyagawa-chō district, known for its geiko (or geisha) heritage, it will curate cultural experiences with the Miyagawa Maiko Performance School. The 92-room hotel with a bamboo courtyard also will showcase Japanese design. “The interiors weave a tale of intimate harmony between art, culture and composition,” told Forbes Travel Guide in 2022.

Regent Bali Canggu

Taking up a coveted stretch of the surfer-favorite Canggu coastline, the beachfront hideaway sits among 15 acres of gardens. Inside the 150 suites and villas, the design takes cues from contemporary Indonesian fashion and culture. Upgrade to Regent Club accommodations for entry to a private lounge and infinity pool, but all guests can enjoy the five restaurants and bars.

Four Seasons Resort Mykonos, Greece

Greece’s famed beach-club-laden island will get a new dose of sophisticated luxury when Four Season moves in. Stretching from the beach to the cliffs, the hotel will adopt Mykonos’ Cycladic architecture with whitewashed courtyards, winding pathways and stunning piazzas for its 94 rooms, villas and suites. It’ll also feature a modern Mykonian kafeneio (café) and an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea.

The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie, Scottsdale

This Scottsdale hotel promises a desert sanctuary of 215 light-filled, casita-inspired guest rooms dotting the lush 18-acre grounds nestled beneath Camelback Mountain. Guests can also expect an oasis-like feel throughout the property, with hydrating treatments at the full-service spa, oxygen-enhanced accommodations and North America’s longest resort pool.

Park Hyatt Johannesburg

Park Hyatt will unveil its first hotel in South Africa in early 2025. Renowned design studio Yabu Pushelberg has overseen the transformation of the former Winston Hotel with 31 individually designed guest rooms, an atmospheric open-air bar, a restaurant serving fire-grilled fare and a sought-after location in the Rosebank district.

Mandarin Oriental, Vienna

This Vienna newcomer is poised to make a remarkable debut with a beautifully restored Art Nouveau building, designed by Alfred Keller in 1903. The structure served as the city’s commercial law court for the past century, but now it will feature 163 rooms and suites, a winter garden, a pool and a fitness center, all designed to meld Vienna‘s rich history with its future.

Saudi Arabia's Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay — This Red Sea refuge will be a blend of lavishness and landscape. *Credit: Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay*

Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay, Saudi Arabia

This Red Sea refuge is destined to be the next premier wellness destination, offering a harmonious blend of luxury and landscape. The resort’s 220 rooms and suites center the stunning surroundings along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast, where nature’s rejuvenating qualities merge with wellness amenities such as the organic spa garden, outdoor workouts by fitness expert Harley Pasternak and a sleep concierge.

Six Senses Burnham Beeches, Australia

This former private mansion will revive Australian Art Deco when it opens as an elegant, 43-room haven outside Melbourne in the forested foothills of the Dandenong Ranges. A library bar, a garden rooftop retreat and unique design elements will evoke the building’s genteel, festive heyday. The country’s first Six Senses aims to be regenerative, and guests can join the effort in the onsite Earth Lab.

The Carlton, Milan

Like the city itself, The Carlton, Milan will radiate style, sophistication and good taste. Rocco Forte Hotels’ director of design Olga Polizzi collaborated with interior designers Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen to create 70 rooms and suites, a wellness center and a panoramic rooftop bar befitting the Italian capital of design.

1 Hotel Melbourne

This Melbourne addition will mark the eco-friendly hospitality brand’s debut Down Under. Given the shared cultural emphasis on sustainability, wellness and celebrating the natural landscape, the 277-room property is a natural fit. The space will provide an urban oasis on the Yarra River, with Bamford Wellness Spa, waterfront views and locally sourced, reclaimed building materials setting a mood of low-impact lavishness.

Amanvari, Los Cabos

The Aman brand prides itself on offering vacation escapes that seamlessly blend into their surroundings (see: Utah’s Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Amangiri and Hangzhou’s Four-Star Amanfayun). When Amanvari (“peace” and “water” in Sanskrit) opens on an estuary in Baja’s East Cape, it’ll be the latest example of nuanced design (20 hotel pavilions and 24 private residences) and nature (a spa and an infinity pool overlooking the Sea of Cortez) working hand in hand.

Orient Express La Minerva, Rome

Famed luxury train company Orient Express is on track to expand into hotels. The first stop: this historic Rome property, a 1620 structure featuring 93 Hugo Toro-designed rooms and suites with a view of the Pantheon, a rooftop restaurant and bar overlooking the city and a wellness facility inspired by Ottoman bath rituals.

Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection, Florence

History and luxury will converge at Collegio, set to open in Florence in March. This former boarding school has been meticulously transformed into an 82-room estate close to Tuscany’s cultural treasures. The famous duomo is just three miles away, but the stunning property’s three restored 16th-century buildings and terraced Baroque gardens could be enticing enough to keep you from leaving.

Rosewood Amsterdam

According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, the Netherlands is the sixth happiest place on Earth. If the Dutch keep building lovely escapes like this new Rosewood—the former Palace of Justice building overlooking the Prince’s Canal will feature 134 rooms and suites, a library-adorned lobby lounge, a spa and an indoor pool—the smile on Amsterdam tourists’ faces will rival the grins on its full-time residents.

Dominican Republic's The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort — This Dominican Republic escape will feature nine eateries, a golf course and more. *Credit: The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort*

The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

While its opening may be delayed until early 2025, this Dominican Republic escape promises to make the wait worthwhile. Through 200 neutral-toned rooms (including some swim-out options), nine culinary entries, the St. Regis Spa and the Punta Espada golf course, the Cap Cana retreat seems destined to handsomely reward travelers’ patience.

BONUS PICK

Romeo Roma

You won’t have to wait until the new year for your next Roman holiday, as this 74-room boutique beauty will open December 17. The historic palazzo, which dates to the 1500s, once served as a residence for a noble family. This converted property represents the final project of the late Zaha Hadid, continuing her architectural legacy with 16th-century frescos, an Alain Ducasse restaurant and the 13,000-square-foot La Spa Sisley Paris.

Experiences, Trains

7 Spectacular Train Journeys Around The World
By Correspondent Natasha Amar

November 15, 2024

Banff National Park — Bask in Banff’s beauty from the tracks. *Credit: iStock-miroslav1*

There’s something undeniably romantic about a long train journey. Far more than a means of transportation, these trips are a rare invitation to slow down and travel with intention around the world. From engineering marvels that wind through mountains and lush valleys to luxurious sojourns that offer a taste of the historical grandeur of iconic trains, these journeys celebrate the spirit of adventure.

While some of the following routes reveal breathtaking destinations often inaccessible by other modes of transportation and others allow passengers to immerse themselves in the culture of the regions they pass through, they’re all resplendent rides that should be on your radar.

Rocky Mountaineer Train. — Onboard with Rocky Mountaineer. *Credit: Rocky Mountaineer*

Vancouver-Banff: The Rocky Mountaineer

Embark on the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route for a remarkable two-day trip between Vancouver and Banff that grants you a front-row seat to the most stunning landscapes in the Canadian Rockies. Travel this historic route, famous for connecting Canada from east to west, in luxurious glass-dome coaches, where you’re deeply immersed in panoramic views that show off the verdant fields of the Fraser Valley, the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate, the astounding Spiral Tunnels, the rugged Kicking Horse Canyon, as well as historic sites like Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven.

Take in the sights with Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf services. The former features single-level dome coaches with oversized glass-dome windows and the latter offers a bi-level dome with seating on the upper floor (with full glass-dome windows and a glass roof) and a dining room on the lower portion. For a bit of fresh air, visit the outdoor viewing platform.

Expect comfortable reclining seats and high-end service with regionally inspired two- or three-course gourmet meals prepared from local ingredients and premium beverages, all served at your seat or in the dining room. Knowledgeable onboard hosts share stories of the region’s history, culture and wildlife.

Norway's The Flåm Railway — See the best of Norway with Flåm Railway. *Credit: Natasha Amar*

Myrdal-Flåm: The Flåm Railway, Norway

For travelers keen on experiencing Norway’s highlights, the Flåm Railway offers the perfect excuse to take the slow and scenic route from Oslo to Bergen. Begin with a few nights in Oslo, where the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Amerikalinjen promises a comfortable NYC-themed stay with its elegant design and basement jazz club in a neo-baroque building.

Once on the train, you’ll make your way to Bergen with a stop in the village of Flåm. There, you can go on a fjord cruise aboard a zero-emission electric catamaran to explore the spectacular beauty of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.

Considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, this route, part of the Norway in a Nutshell tour, involves going from Oslo to the village of Myrdal (3,172 feet above sea level) via the Bergen Railway. You’ll hop onboard the vintage Flåm Railway (also called the Flamsbana) carrier to reach Flåm, which stands at the end of Aurlandsfjord.

On the hour-long, 12-mile jaunt from Myrdal to Flåm (or vice versa), you’ll pass through 20 tunnels, be mesmerized by snow-blanketed mountains and village farms, and have a photo opportunity at Kjosfossen waterfall.

The Orient Express Train — Hop aboard the train that has transported royalty, movie stars and more. *Credit: iStock-bizoo_n*

Istanbul-Paris: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Travel back to the golden age of train expeditions on a five-night journey from Istanbul to Paris aboard Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Begin in Turkey, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history with a stay at the Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus.

The legendary train has transported royalty, movie stars, spies and dignitaries; hosted grand parties; and, of course, was an inspiration for Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. Its art deco carriages were crafted between 1926 and 1949 and restored in the 1970s. The train’s lavish interiors are marked by hand-blown Italian glass, Chinese lacquer work, plush velvet and intricate wood paneling.

Wake to French breakfasts and enjoy gourmet meals curated by chef Jean Imbert in the exquisite dining cars. Mingle over cocktails and midnight brunches in the bar car. In the historic cabins, bask in the comfort of your cozy double banquette by day. When night falls, watch your space transform into a bedroom with berths topped with soft bedding. Or you can opt for a Grand Suite with a double bed, en-suite facilities, private dining and lounge areas.

Marvel at the storybook charm of Peleș Castle in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, wander the streets of Bucharest with local guides, appreciate Budapest during a panoramic cruise on the Danube and gaze at picturesque Swiss backdrops as the train heads to Paris.

Sri Lanka's Nine Arches Bridge — A Sri Lankan trek takes you past landmarks like Nine Arches Bridge. *Credit: iStock-Sheik Afzal*

Colombo-Badulla: Sri Lanka

The breathtaking train journey from Colombo to Badulla is on many train lovers’ bucket lists — and for good reason. This scenic 180-mile route, a relic of Sri Lanka’s colonial past developed by the British mainly to transport coffee, takes you through 46 tunnels and weaves through verdant landscapes with misty peaks, rugged cliffs, plunging waterfalls, tropical forests, lush tea estates and quiet villages. Notable highlights include the famous Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Nanu Oya, where many visitors disembark to tour tea estates, and the Demodara Loop, where the train circles a hill and passes through a tunnel underneath the station.

On this passenger train, you can choose first-, second- or third-class seating. First-class has air-conditioning and reserved seats. The train can get quite crowded, especially with its growing popularity on social media for the dramatic views and photography ops, so be mindful of that if you’re considering the other seating tiers. While the route from Colombo to Badulla takes nearly 10 hours, many visitors do the seven-hour section from Kandy to Ella for the best vistas.

Switzerland's the Gotthard Panorama Express — The Gotthard Panorama Express chugs through pretty lakeside towns. *Credit: Natasha Amar*

Lugano-Lucerne: Gotthard Panorama Express

Beginning in Lugano, Switzerland, the Gotthard Panorama Express chugs north through the historic Gotthard Tunnel, which was constructed in 1882. As the train ascends the Alps, expect up-close views of mountains, turquoise lakes and the famous Baroque church of Wassen, seen from three different angles thanks to the ingenious loop tunnels along the route. The train ride ends in Flüelen, where travelers continue to the pretty lakeside town of Lucerne by steamboat across Lake Lucerne.

The two-hour-and-30-minute trip between Lugano and Flüelen takes place in the train’s lavish, modern first-class-only compartments that offer luggage racks, complimentary Wi-Fi and an onboard menu selling coffee and light snacks. Don’t forget to visit the photo compartment with retractable windows to take crisp, reflection-free pictures. While the Swiss Travel Pass covers panorama trains, you must make a seat reservation to guarantee a spot. Note: the Gotthard Panorama Express is on hiatus through April 2025.

Taman Negara National Park — Detour to Taman Negara, one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. *Credit: iStock-george clerk*

Singapore-Malaysia-Singapore: Eastern & Oriental Express

Set off on a three-night journey aboard Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express, a luxurious train and sister to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. You’ll begin your adventure in Singapore in carriages designed with opulent touches such as polished wood paneling, hand-painted lacquered panels, silk furnishings and teak floors. Nosh on fine Malaysian cuisine by acclaimed chef André Chiang, unwind with a massage at the onboard Dior Spa, appreciate stunning vistas of tea plantations and forests in the observation car, and cap off your evening with cocktails and live piano in the jazz-inspired bar car.

En-suite accommodations include the vintage-inspired Pullman Cabins with twin beds on upper and lower berths and ample natural light, spacious State Cabins with two floor-level single beds and the Presidential Suite with a large bathroom and additional perks.

In Malaysia, you’ll admire diverse rural terrain, visit Taman Negara — one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world, it allows photography, foraging and wildlife excursions — and explore UNESCO World Heritage Site George Town in Penang through the lens of art or cuisine on guided tours.

New Zealand's TranzAlpine Train — The TranzAlpine traverses the Southern Alps. *Credit: iStock-Ocean Adventurer*

Christchurch-Greymouth: The TranzAlpine

Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides aboard the TranzAlpine, traversing the gorgeous Southern Alps on New Zealand’s South Island. Departing from Christchurch, the train ventures west across the expansive Canterbury Plains before ascending through the river gorge and valleys of the Waimakariri River toward the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass. The route through the imposing Torlesse mountains, between Springfield and Arthur’s Pass, is a remarkable feat of engineering. Feel the thrill of crossing the magnificent Staircase Gully viaduct, which stands more than 200 feet above a stream.

The trip continues through lush beech forests, with highlights such as the historic Otira Tunnel, the quaint town of Moana and the idyllic Lake Brunner. Ultimately, the TranzAlpine train arrives in Greymouth on the west coast, from which you can travel to Punakaiki and the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.

On the train, you’ll gaze at the scenery through non-reflective panoramic windows and wear headphones to listen to commentary in five languages. For not-to-miss photo opportunities, head to the open-air observation carriage to admire striking views of Mount Binser at Cass and the Waimakariri River.

Opt for the Scenic Plus experience for elevated meals prepared onboard from fresh local ingredients, paired with regional wines, served at your seat. Other beverages, snacks and light meals can also be bought at the café carriage.

Hotels, Lists

6 Hong Kong And Macau Hotel Suites With Private Spa Rooms
By Correspondent Kate Springer

November 14, 2024

You can’t lose with a relaxing stay at Wynn Macau or Wynn Palace. *Credit: Wynn Macau*

Hong Kong and Macau may be neighbors along the Pearl River Delta, but these destinations share more than just geography. Both cities are known for their fantastic cuisine, Chinese and Western heritage, Taoist temples and incredible high-end spas. From traditional acupressure to cutting-edge infrared saunas, these destinations have long drawn wellness seekers on a pampering pilgrimage.

But if there’s one thing that’s better than a luxurious day at the spa, it’s when the exhilarating experience comes to your room. For those who crave a mix of seclusion, convenience and total relaxation, we’ve handpicked top hotels in Hong Kong and Macau that offer private treatment rooms in select suites or guest rooms. Get ready to kick back and indulge in premium pampering without stepping outside your door at these six properties.

Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace

Across the Pearl River Estuary, Wynn’s two properties provide an unmatched level of luxury for spa lovers. Both integrated resorts present a variety of suites equipped with private treatment rooms and 24-hour services, enabling you to indulge in a massage well after the spa closes for the day.

At the Five-Star Wynn Macau, the Wynn Tower and Encore Tower feature spa rooms in many accommodation types, such as the lavish one- and two-bedroom suites or the Encore Grand Salon Suites, so you won’t have to traipse down to the spa in your bathrobe and slippers.

Over at the whimsical Five-Star Wynn Palace in Cotai, you’ll find spa treatment rooms in more than 230 of the resort’s 1,706 suites, from Palace Rooms to Garden Villas. Wynn Palace’s in-room treatment menu lists excellent options like the Palace Tranquility Massage and the Asian Heritage Massage to enjoy in the comfort of your suite. But when you want to step out, the Five-Star Spa at Wynn Palace is worth visiting for its impressive hydrotherapy suite and innovative experiences like red light therapy and cryotherapy.

Make the most of your private time at Asaya. *Credit: Rosewood Hotel Hong Kong*

Asaya Lodges at Rosewood Hong Kong

Holistic healing and rejuvenation take precedence at the 40,000-square-foot Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Asaya wellness facility on the sixth and seventh floors of Five-Star Rosewood Hong Kong. If you’re here for more than a treatment or two, reserve one of the two Asaya Lodges sequestered along a neatly landscaped stone path one floor above the spa.

Designed by hospitality guru Tony Chi, both lodges exude a sense of calm with their cool stone hues and dedicated spa treatment rooms. You’ll also find a treasure trove of wellness goodies like custom-made oils, yoga gear and even a “Sleep Box” to enhance your rest with oils, sprays and gadgets.

While there, make the most of your stay with an all-inclusive retreat, beginning with personalized wellness assessments to help customize your treatments. From stress-relieving massages and cutting-edge facials to astrology readings, singing bowls and art therapy, Asaya takes a 360-degree approach to well-being. And when you’re ready to rejoin society, a picture-perfect rooftop infinity pool and fitness center are downstairs.

Plateau Spa at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong

Take a break from Hong Kong’s fast-paced lifestyle with a visit to the Four-Star Grand Hyatt’s 80,000-square-foot Four-Star Plateau Spa. The spa’s 10 exclusive rooms and suites, tucked in a secluded corner of the property marked by lush foliage and hushed corridors, feel like a retreat unto themselves.

For a rejuvenating stay, we recommend the Harbour View Plateau Suite, a serene, 710-square-foot refuge featuring minimalist décor, pale sassafras wood and a corner terrace with wraparound views of Victoria Harbour. Wake up with a steamy coffee while a latticework of boats crisscrosses the famed waterway, then settle in for your service — perhaps a signature Plateau Massage or a skin-refining facial featuring Omorovicza skincare — in an adjacent treatment room.

When you’re ready to stretch your legs, enjoy morning yoga by the 50-meter outdoor pool, a gym session or a few tennis sets on the rooftop court surrounded by skyscrapers.

The Mandarin Suite at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

Known for its elegance and exceptional service, the Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is home to a top-tier spa with treatments steeped in traditional Chinese medicine. For those craving exclusivity, book the Mandarin Suite, a lavish 3,843-square-foot presidential suite with its own treatment room.

This suite oozes sophistication with priceless antiques, a collection of rare art, a steam room, a black marble jet tub and a balcony offering jaw-dropping views of the harbor. Enjoy any service on the menu — we’d recommend the Bespoke 111SKIN Harley Street Signature Facial or Digital Wellness Escape — or book private sessions with visiting consultants specializing in everything from reflexology to nutrition.

Dynasty Suites at Grand Suites at Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip

As if the Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Macao wasn’t luxurious enough, the Five-Star Grand Suites takes the brand’s elegance and refinement to the next level with its “hotel as a home” concept. Imagine expansive residential-style layouts with living areas, dining rooms, kitchens and walk-in closets, not to mention thoughtful butler service to make life easy.

While every Grand Suite feels spacious and relaxing, the 18 Dynasty Suites are hard to beat. In these 1,755- to 2,788-square-foot residences, the primary bedroom features an OTO massage chair, a marble bathroom with a built-in steam room and big tub for personalized bath rituals. Naturally, there’s also a private spa treatment room, perfect for enjoying any service from the spa — minus the machine-assisted treatments.

Pull on a plush terry bathrobe and unwind with popular offerings like the cupping and gua sha myofascial-release massage, featuring products from 001 London. You could also embark on the transformative Sleep Support journey, which incorporates singing bowls, crystals, guided breathing and calming massage techniques designed to induce deeper rest.

Hotels, News

Why You Should Stay At The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel
By Forbes Travel Guide Editor Spencer Whaley

November 13, 2024

New York City's The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel — Inside a restored Manhattan marvel. *Credit: What The Fox Studios*

When the first iteration of The Surrey opened in 1926, it became a preferred spot for popular actors like Ethel Merman and Claudette Colbert. And while the iconic Upper East Side property enjoyed its time in the spotlight, it was forced to close in 2020. But it’s getting an exciting encore. Corinthia Hotels stepped in for a head-to-toe makeover of the Manhattan hotel that wrapped up in October, marking the Malta-founded brand’s North America debut.

Corinthia, known for its portfolio of luxurious boutique hotels, has successfully pulled off this high-wire transformation, even if, from the exterior, things appear to have stayed put. Inside, however, the Martin Brudnizki-designed, 100-room hotel emanates a fresh energy befitting the city while still showing respect to The Surrey’s stellar past.

Forbes Travel Guide recently got a firsthand look at the updated address. Here’s our take on the “new” star in town everyone wants to meet.

A local legend

The Surrey re-joins an esteemed group of Upper East Side legends. Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel and Four-Star The Mark sit less than a block away. The Surrey’s building boasts an impressive history as a landmark, a quintessentially uptown Manhattan hangout during the silver screen’s golden age, as luminaries such as Bette Davis and John F. Kennedy either lived or stayed at the swanky, discreet residential hotel.

The 16-story building’s white-marbled Beaux-Arts facade on tree-lined East 76th Street offers a peek into the storied past. But once the jacketed doorman welcomes you inside, it becomes clear that The Surrey is not some nostalgic detour. Brudnizki’s design vision called for a light, bright hotel with elegant gestures that nod to an art deco past without being confined there.

The Design

What sets The Surrey apart are the details that lend a personalized touch. This rings especially true with the art lining the walls. The collection, ranging from photographs to oil paintings, is a tribute to New York City. Each piece, such as Robert Mapplethorpe’s black-and-white photograph, Iris, or Ethan Cook’s large canvas color blocks, has a story to tell. The eye-catching images in the Casa Tua lounge, from owner Miky Grendene’s own collection, make you feel as if you are a guest in a well-appointed Manhattan pied-à-terre.

In the guest rooms, Brudnizki takes a soft approach to art deco, with each accommodation inspired by a color. Rich terracotta, a springtime green and an elegant light blue are subtly woven throughout the space with silk walls, corresponding color cabinet inlays and Murano chandeliers. The soon-to-be-revealed signature suites pay tribute to The Surrey’s backyard, Central Park. Four Central Park bridges inspire the units: the Bethesda, Pine Bank, Greywacke and Bow (which is honored in the Surrey Suite). Crown moldings that reflect the unique architectural style of each bridge and mosaic tiles done with the structures’ illustrations on them sweep guests into a romantic New York City reverie.

The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel's Casa Tua — Casa Tua is as relaxed, refined Italian restaurant. *Credit: What The Fox Studios*

Casa Tua’s Manhattan debut

Perhaps the most emblematic example of The Surrey’s bold new energy is its partnership with Casa Tua. This restaurant and private club originated in Miami and has since expanded to Aspen, Paris and now New York City, migrating along with its jet-setting clientele.

In its Manhattan outpost, Casa Tua puts its stamp on the hotel’s lounge, restaurant and a private space accessible only to members designed by the brand’s resident architect, Michele Bönan. The former oozes clubby-cool comfort by way of sleek, Italian cowhide lounge chairs, stacks of meticulously arranged coffee table books and a rotating collection of art rivaling any gallery. The lounge begs for a long afternoon savoring a steaming cappuccino followed by an inevitable martini.

Casa Tua restaurant serves Italian fare all day in a setting that is as relaxed as it is refined, thanks to thoughtful touches like the owner’s family photographs that decorate the menu, the brown velvet banquettes with white piping, shelves lined with books and objets d’art and an open kitchen. The menu reflects the congenial atmosphere with dishes designed to be passed around a table, such as whole branzino and spaghetti alla nerano, a rich, creamy pasta with fried zucchini and cracked black pepper.

The Surrey Spa featuring Sisley Paris

If you seek a tranquil escape from frantic Madison Avenue and Central Park, The Surrey’s spa is your sanctuary. In partnering with the luxury wellness brand Sisley Paris, the hotel adds an air of French sophistication to 76th Street. After sampling the spa’s menu of treatments — we already have our eye on the Black Rose Replumping Facial, a Surrey exclusive — enjoy amenities such as the sauna, the sinus-clearing eucalyptus steam room and the experiential shower’s three multi-sensory settings. We also recommend the Atlantic Storm, a blend of hot and cold water therapies paired with alternating eucalyptus and warm coconut scent infusions.

One of the spa’s unique facilities is the Himalayan salt room, which is private and available to book for 30-minute sessions. The room is lit by the warm, pink glow of a wall made entirely of Himalayan salt blocks, which can help heal lung and skin ailments. Bask in the chamber from a heated, ergonomic chair as the fine salt mist is sprayed into the air. A spacious gym (by Manhattan standards) and adjoining patio for yoga and meditation classes complete the urban sanctuary effect.

Attractions and Landmarks, Lists

10 Top Manila Attractions
By Correspondent Ching Dee

November 12, 2024

La Mesa Eco Park is a great place for a break. *Credit: Matthew Gan-Wikimedia*

Metro Manila, the Philippines’ bustling heart, caters to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover or simply seeking urban adventures, you will fill up your itinerary and enjoy warm Filipino hospitality.

From cultural explorations to culinary adventures, here are the top 10 activities that promise to enrich your visit to this dynamic metropolis.

Get back to nature at La Mesa Eco Park

Escape the hustle of the city with a visit to the recently renovated La Mesa Eco Park. This Quezon City nature reserve offers verdant greenery, scenic walking trails and opportunities for boating and fishing in its serene lake. This reserve supplies most of the city’s water and remains an integral part of its ecosystem.

Museum hop in Intramuros

Begin your journey through Manila’s rich history by exploring the museums in Intramuros, the historic and famous “Walled City.” Dive into the past at Bahay Tsinoy, which chronicles the country’s Chinese-Filipino heritage, or visit Casa Manila for a glimpse into colonial life. Intramuros is also home to cozy cobblestone streets, historic churches and homes from colonial Manila.

Pedal around the city. *Credit: BamBike EcoTours*

Ride bamboo bikes in Manila

Partake in sustainable tourism by renting bamboo bicycles from eco-tour organization BamBike for a two-wheeled look around the ancient walls of Intramuros. Immerse yourself in Manila’s storied history as you pedal along cobblestone streets and past Fort Santiago and other historic landmarks.

Go food tripping in San Juan and Marikina

Indulge your taste buds in San Juan City and Marikina City, which are known for their diverse culinary scenes. Explore hidden gems and family-owned restaurants that reflect the city’s vibrant culture, from local favorites (Guevarra’s in San Juan) to international cuisines (Marikina’s Rustic Mornings by Isabelo).

Explore the art scene in Cubao Expo

Venture into Cubao Expo, a creative hub where art galleries, vintage shops and quaint cafés converge. Discover local artworks and unique finds tucked away in this nostalgic corner of Quezon City. You may even find the perfect souvenir for your trip.

Find great boutiques and gourmet cuisine at Bonifacio Global City. *Credit: Ching Dee*

Shop and dine in Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Known for its upscale shopping and dining options, BGC provides a blend of modern amenities and green spaces. Explore high-end boutiques, indulge in gourmet cuisine and unwind in the expansive Bonifacio High Street mixed-use development.

Relax at the Ayala Triangle Gardens

Escape the capital city’s commotion at Ayala Triangle Gardens, a serene green space in Makati. Enjoy a leisurely walk among lush landscapes, unwind by the dancing fountain or savor a picnic under shaded trees. If you’re looking for premium shops and more dining destinations, you’re in luck because Ayala Triangle Gardens also sits in the heart of the metro’s prime business district.

Take a walking tour of Escolta Street

Rediscover Manila’s historic Escolta Street, once considered the city’s top commercial hub. Join a walking tour to admire its architectural landmarks, vintage buildings and burgeoning arts scene. One of the best guides in Manila is Ivan Man Dy of Old Manila Walks, who also curates a great walking food tour of Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world.

Manila’s premier performing arts venue. *Credit: Rodel Valiente*

Catch a show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines

Learn more about the country at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, a premier venue for Philippine performing arts and cultural events. Attend a Ballet Philippines performance or a concert showcasing local talents.

If you want to try another venue, catch a Broadway-level theatrical production at the world-class Theatre at Solaire.

Experience nightlife in Poblacion

As night falls, revel in the pulsating nightlife of Poblacion, Makati. This neighborhood is known for its lively bars, speakeasies and music venues — all fueled by cocktails and the energy of locals and out-of-towners looking for a good time. In the last few years, Poblacion has also seen a rise in new restaurants that offer various cuisines from different countries. Drop by favorite haunts such as OTO, Agimat or, when you need a little pick-me-up after a night of partying, head over to Commune, a beloved coffee shop serving 100% local Filipino pours.

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