Luxury travel news from around the world (December 2024)

Prepare to be inspired by some of the latest luxury travel news from around the globe – from groundbreaking sustainable luxury in Tokyo to an ultra-luxurious yacht launch in the Galapagos. It might feel like things slow down a little in December but there’s no shortage of news and an array of indulgent experiences on the horizon. Read on to learn more…

Following the official announcement of Saudi as the host country for the FIFA World Cup™ 2034 today, Saudi, Welcome to Arabia, the official destination brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), is thrilled to welcome football fans from around the globe to experience the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the Heart of Arabia.

SH Hotels & Resorts, the sustainable hotel brand management company founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, has unveiled plans for 1 Hotel Tokyo. Set to open in 2025, 1 Hotel Tokyo represents a longstanding collaboration with Mori Trust, one of Japan’s leading property developers. After years of planning, the two companies are creating a true 1 Hotels experience that’s deeply rooted in nature and sustainability.

1 Hotel Tokyo will be located in the buzzing Akasaka district, serving as an anchor to Mori Trust’s Tokyo World Gate Akasaka project. This state-of-the-art complex integrates retail, offices, and the luxurious 1 Hotel experience in a pedestrian-friendly and dynamic, masterfully planned development.

Starting December, Air France is renewing its in-flight menus on board its La Première suites on departure from Paris, continuing to offer a high-flying culinary experience in its most exclusive travel cabin. The triple Michelin-starred chef Emmanuel Renaut has joined forces with Claire Heitzler, elected pastry chef of the year 2013 by the Gault & Millau guide, to sign a new refined seasonal menu showcasing the best of fine French cuisine.

With a selection comprising Beaufort PDO soufflé, cream of mushroom with truffles, and foie gras with salsify, blueberry and onion chutney, the chef has created five inventive, gourmet starters. Eight new dishes celebrating French cuisine, especially Savoyard cuisine, also feature on this seasonal menu that will be renewed over the coming months. Polenta with wild mushrooms, spinach and mountain cheese – simple products with a distinct Alpine identity – or Scallops quenelle, tangy cream sauce and root vegetables are among the new gourmet delicacies available on board.

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024

Cunard has announced plans for a major refurbishment of the Queen Elizabeth ahead of its Alaska and Caribbean seasons in 2025. The 2,000-guest ship will undergo refurbishment from the end of February until mid-March 2025, in Singapore. The upgrades will prepare the ship for its inaugural Alaska season from Seattle in June and her first Caribbean voyage, departing in October.

The Chedi Hegra, a groundbreaking project that marks a new chapter in the development of AlUla as a world-class tourist destination is set to launch. Nestled within the ancient Nabataean site of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the property will be the Kingdom’s first seven-star hotel to open, offering guests a harmonious blend of rich history, luxurious comfort, and cultural immersion.

The Chedi Hegra will feature 35 bespoke guest rooms, with each meticulously designed to reflect the harmony between luxury and the surrounding natural landscape, the rooms integrate existing structures – such as the Hegra railway station – into the architecture, preserving the integrity of the region’s rich cultural heritage whilst introducing contemporary luxury to the heart of the desert.

Silversea, the leading experiential luxury and expedition travel brand, has introduced its 2025 wave season offer, which is now available on more than 500 voyages. From historic sites of the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, to pristine beaches in the Caribbean, untouched beauty of Antarctica and everything in between, there are thousands of reasons to sail with Silversea, and this offer gives guests up to $5,000 reasons more.

The ‘Up to $5,000 Reasons to Sail with Silversea’ offer applies to new bookings made before February 28, 2025, and provides savings of up to USD $5,000 per suite or up to $2,500 per guest on Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port All-Inclusive fares*.

Virgin Galactic and the civil aviation authority of Italy (ENAC) are to jointly study the feasibility of Virgin Galactic conducting spaceflight operations from Grottaglie Spaceport in the Puglia region of Southern Italy. The study will evaluate the necessary technical requirements for suborbital spaceflight operations at Grottaglie Spaceport, the surrounding area’s ability to support private and research suborbital spaceflight customers, and the compatibility of Italy’s suborbital regulations with those in the United States, where Virgin Galactic is headquartered, with the first phase to be completed in 2025. Grottaglie Airport is managed by Aeroporti di Puglia and was designated a commercial spaceport by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport in 2018, making it the first horizontal spaceport in Italy and first in the European Union.

The world’s largest ultra-luxury commercial catamaran HERMES, owned by Pelorus Yachting, has been launched onto the water ahead of its first official voyage in the Galapagos which is scheduled for April 2025. HERMES is the ultimate yacht for exploring this extraordinary region, offering unrivalled landscapes and vibrant marine life in style and comfort, with charter prices starting from $246,905 per week.

Mandarin Oriental is set to sign two iconic additions to its portfolio of exceptional hotels from early 2025: Hôtel Lutetia in Paris and the Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam. Hôtel Lutetia will be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, while the Conservatorium Hotel is set to be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium, Amsterdam in January 2026, following a comprehensive upgrade (the hotel will stay open during that period). Both properties are renowned for their historic significance and architectural grandeur, and Mandarin Oriental is committed to ensuring that each property’s unique character and local cultural essence is preserved, while seamlessly delivering the brand’s unique approach to luxury hospitality, steeped in the brand’s dual Asian roots.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok is now open, inviting you to step into a world where comfort and sophistication seamlessly intertwine. This serene retreat amidst the vibrant cosmopolis of the Thai capital, is your doorway to the city. A world of authentic experiences and inspirations is reimagined at the hotel through a contemporary lens. Positioned on Wireless Road and elevated within the prestigious enclave of One Bangkok district, the hotel offers unparalleled views of Lumpini Park.

Iconic attractions are within easy reach, such as Chao Phraya River and the renowned Sukhumvit district. Unwind in the sophisticated surroundings of your room or suite, before savoring creative culinary delights at one of the hotel’s four dining concepts. Embrace holistic healing at The Ritz-Carlton Spa or enjoy spectacular sunsets on the Club Lounge balcony.

Four Seasons is set to take management of a resort and residences in Bahia Beach, Rio Grande. The opening will mark the entry of Four Seasons to Puerto Rico and the continued expansion of the renowned luxury brand in the Caribbean.

Nestled within 483 acres (195 hectares) of lush landscaping along Bahia Beach, the property is seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings, allowing guests and residents to immerse themselves in the beauty of Puerto Rico. The local surroundings will continue to be preserved, with interiors undergoing renovations before unveiling as Four Seasons Resort Puerto Rico in late 2025.

The 330-guest M/S Paul Gauguin will undergo an extensive refurbishment during a seven-week drydock in Singapore, February-March 2025. The multi-million-dollar project will introduce sustainable technology upgrades, a contemporary new look for its popular Le Grill restaurant, a reimagined pool deck complete with shaded cabana areas, eight new connecting staterooms, and the updating of soft furnishes throughout the ship.

Emerging from drydock at the end of March, The Gauguin will offer two unique voyages as part of its 2025 Boutique Crossing Collection—the 14-night Immersive Indonesia: Singapore to Australia, departing April 1, 2025; and a 16-night Crossing Melanesia: Australia to Fiji, departing April 15, 2025 as the ship sails home to Tahiti. The Gauguin will then resume her award-winning roster of all-inclusive, luxury voyages offering 7- to 14-night journeys to the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Cook Islands, and Marquesas.

Orient Express La Minerva now bookable

Situated in the historic Piazza della Minerva, in the heart of Rome and just steps from the Pantheon, Orient Express La Minerva is set to open in Spring 2025 as the first hotel under the renowned Orient Express brand. The property, formerly known as Palazzo Fonseca dating back to the 17th century, occupies an entire island site and was acquired in 2021 by Arsenale SpA. Following a comprehensive renovation, the building’s interiors and historical features have been meticulously designed and restored under artistic direction of Franco-Mexican architect and interior designer Hugo Toro.

Originally built in 1620 as the residence of the aristocratic Portuguese Fonseca family, the historic building was transformed into a hotel for the first time in 1811. It soon it became a favorite destination for prominent artists and intellectuals during the Grand Tour, hosting figures such as Stendhal, Vittorio Alfieri, and Herman Melville; and hosted a visit from Pope Pius IX. The restoration work reflects a project rooted in the history of Rome, inspired by Roman domus and the riches of the Eternal City, combining art Déco style with contemporary elegance, in perfect harmony with the mysterious identity of the Orient Express journey.

Quietly tucked away in Ávila, just 50 minutes from Madrid, lies a 16th-century palace with a story to tell. Six Senses, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio, has signed a hotel management agreement with the joint venture created by Sidercom and El Enebro to welcome guests like the royalty of centuries past within a 100-hectare (250 acre), 60-key country estate, which is expected to open at the end of 2026.

Built in 1563 by Juan de Herrera, the same architect who designed the nearby Renaissance masterpiece El Escorial, El Quexigal was famous for being the most beautiful country estate in Spain. Acquired by King Felipe II to be used for recreational pursuits for the Royal House, the farm was run by Jerome monks, producing oil, wine, honey, and food, along with wood from the abundance of trees including the quejigos oak, which gave its name to the estate.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be the first in the vacation brand’s Royal Beach Club Collection, combining the striking beaches of Paradise Island and Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences to create an all-inclusive beach day – and with the vibrant Bahamian spirit and culture at the heart of it all. From pristine beaches, pools for every vibe and the world’s largest swim-up bar to island-style spots for local fare and experiences featuring Bahamian artisans and live music, the next in the brand’s destination lineup is set to bring next-level chill with The Bahamas as the ultimate backdrop. Vacationers can purchase their all-inclusive day pass and cabanas starting in the spring of 2025.

In two years, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has completed the conversion to a new class, Premium Comfort Class. The addition of a new class is the biggest product change in years. All Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft are now equipped with this class. The intermediate class is available on flights to long-haul destinations and offers more space, luxury and privacy than Economy Class, at a more affordable fare than World Business Class. With the Premium Comfort class, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines meets the needs and desires of both leisure and business travellers.

During the conversion of the Boeing 777 aircraft, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines also replaced the seats in World Business Class. These chairs feature a sliding door for more comfort and privacy. In addition, all passengers in World Business Class have direct aisle access.

50 luxury and lifestyle hotels set to open worldwide for Hyatt by 2026

Hyatt’s impressive pipeline of over 50 luxury and lifestyle hotels slated to open globally by 2026 includes highly anticipated openings like Miraval the Red Sea, set to debut in late 2025. This project, marking the Miraval brand’s international debut, will be a haven for luxury wellbeing seekers and adventurers and will pave the way to bringing transformative wellness experiences and one of the largest spas in the Red Sea destination.

Other highly anticipated luxury and lifestyle Hyatt openings over the next two years include the likes of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and Park Hyatt Johannesburg, as well the highly anticipated Andaz Miami Beach and Andaz Gold Coast. These projects will build on the high standard set by recent Hyatt openings in the luxury and lifestyle segments, such as Park Hyatt London River Thames, Alila Shanghai as Greater China’s first urban resort-style Alila hotel, The Standard, Singapore and The StandardX, Bangkok.

Fusing the performance-driven methodologies and technologies of Formula 1^® with spectacular design and scintillating driving dynamics, Valhalla is a supercar of extraordinary scope. With development now at an advanced stage the time has come to reveal full details of Aston Martin’s landmark mid-engined hybrid supercar. As befits the ultimate driver’s supercar, Valhalla is a car of ‘firsts’: Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar and first plug-in hybrid, delivering the marques first production vehicle with dedicated EV range capability.

It is also the first model to use the bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 engine – the highest performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin – and is the first to use the brand’s all-new 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which incorporates an e-Motor and electronic rear differential (E-diff).

MITSUI OCEAN FUJI, the former Seabourn Odyssey and the newest cruise ship from MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES, has arrived in Yokohama to begin a maiden season of inspiring voyages celebrating the blue ocean and Japan’s breathtaking natural beauty. Japan’s most luxurious, all-suite vessel is sailing a series of five- to 66-day cruises from Yokohama, Tokyo, and other local ports, launching a completely new and innovative onboard guest experience that captures “FUNATABI – Beautiful Encounters with Japan”.

The 458-guest MITSUI OCEAN FUJI was officially been named in a traditional maritime ceremony in Tokyo Bay by Ikenobo ikebana Headmaster Designate Senko Ikenobo. Sister ship, Nippon Maru, was also in Tokyo Bay to welcome MITSUI OCEAN FUJI to the fleet.

Waldorf Astoria New York has begun accepting reservations for stays in 2025. Following a multi-year meticulously and thoughtfully-crafted restoration effort led by renowned architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and interior design from Pierre-Yves Rochon, the 375-room Waldorf Astoria New York will usher in a new era of luxury for New York City. The legendary property is expected to open its doors in spring 2025.

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Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.