Luxury travel news from around the world (April 2025)

The world’s farthest frontiers continue to be reimagined with this month’s round-up of luxury travel news including Aman’s ultra-elegant yacht and The Ritz-Carlton’s treetop sanctuaries in the Masai Mara. Meanwhile, cruise terminals are reaching incredible new scales and PONANT are planning a polar circumnavigation of Antarctic; for this and more, please read on…

Etihad redefines short and medium haul flights

Etihad Airways is poised to revolutionise short and medium-haul flights with its brand new Airbus A321LR. This game-changer echoestheir long-haul luxury with the unprecedented introduction of private First Suites alongside flat-bed Business Class and enhanced Economy. As Etihad charts its ambitious “Journey 2030,” this ten-strong fleet expansion, connecting Abu Dhabi to sixteen new destinations from Algiers to Zurich, signals a commitment to elevating every passenger’s journey, from door-to-door chauffeur service for First flyers to gate-to-gate streaming Wi-Fi for all, proving that even on shorter hops, the sky’s the limit for extraordinary experiences.

Spring 2025 campaign for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Following the successful launch of its new brand identity at the turn of the year, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is consistently pursuing its strategic direction with a new campaign this Spring. The campaign focuses on individual travel experiences of the highest standards, with a focus on destinations such as the USA & Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, Antarctica, the South Seas & South America, and Scandinavia in winter. It will centre on moving motifs, emotional imagery, and the ships that were once again named the world’s best cruise fleet by Insight Guides 2025 with a five-star rating.

Ultra-luxury One&Only resort and residences planned for Hudson Valley

A new chapter in old-money elegance is unfolding as One&Only stakes its claim in the hills of the Hudson Valley, a landscape once gilded by the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and Astors. Perched amid postcard views and patrician pasts, the brand’s latest enclave — just 35 ultra-exclusive residences — will see the revival of the valley’s role as a sanctuary of sophistication, where city fatigue gives way to luxury.

Nanuku Resort Fiji completes $12 million renovation

Nanuku Resort Fiji has emerged from a $12 million renovation just in time for its 10th anniversary. The resort combines barefoot luxury with Fijian soul – think carved wood, ocean hues and raffia-lit lounges. This reimagining encompasses everything from toes-in-the-sand dining at Nuku Bar to the serene exclusivity of the new adults-only Dancing Vonu.

2025 MICHELIN Guide for France is now out

France reaffirms its gastronomic supremacy in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide, with chefs Hugo Roellinger and Christopher Coutanceau earning three stars in the latest edition. Other new stars highlight a growing appreciation for regional produce, fresh talent and thoughtful innovation, while Paris quietly reasserts its influence with a wave of new, creative openings.

A new era for Korean Air

With its bold new livery barely dry, Korean Air is rolling out a number of enhancements — from plush Prestige lounges to a refined Premium Economy that replaces the relics of First Class on its 777s. As the airline prepares to absorb Asiana and claim the skies as Korea’s singular flagship, it’s swapping outdated conventions for new, upgraded elegance.

Ritz-Carlton’s first luxury safari camp in Kenya’s Masai Mara

This August, Ritz-Carlton swaps skyscrapers for savannah with the launch of its first-ever safari camp, nestled along the Sand River in Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara. The camp features 20 tented treetop suites—each with private decks, plunge pools and open-air lounges—designed to immerse guests in the rhythms of the bush.

From hot-air balloon flights at dawn to fireside feasts beneath starlit skies, The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp promises an experience shaped by local culture and conservation, with game drives led by expert guides, spa rituals rooted in Indigenous healing, and design that champions sustainability and local craftsmanship.

MSC Group opens world’s largest cruise terminal

A new era of ocean travel has docked in Miami with the opening of MSC’s record-breaking cruise terminal—the largest in the world. Spanning over 492,000 square feet and capable of welcoming 36,000 passengers a day, this sleek, high-tech hub signals MSC’s deepening commitment to the US and Caribbean, and sets a bold benchmark for the cruise industry. Designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri, the terminal anchors Miami’s status as a global gateway to the seas.

New digital arrival and departure system for Antigua and Barbuda

A new digital arrival and departure system has been rolled out for travellers at VC Bird International Airport in Antigua. The new portal at arriveantigua.com enables travellers to pre-submit their details and spend less time queuing at the airport. Passengers can use the website on their phone or tablet to take a photograph of their passport, which lets the form pre-fill essential details. They can also answer a few questions about their trip and customs declarations.

On completion, a QR code is issued to be shown at Immigration and Customs. It can be saved to an iPhone Wallet, via screenshot, or accessed through the confirmation email. The platform will soon be expanded to include arrivals via seaport and for private jet passengers.

First luxury yacht for Aman

Aman’s first luxury yacht, Amangati—Sanskrit for “peaceful motion”—will have just 47 suites, a jazz club, Aman Spa, and beach club. This floating retreat promises refined intimacy and understated opulence. Powered by green technologies and designed by SINOT, Amangati will glide through the Mediterranean, offering curated voyages and private charters that echo Aman’s signature stillness.

New hotel and residences for Jumeirah in Dubai

Jumeirah has revealed that it will open a new hotel and two new sets of residences in Dubai. The hotel, Jumeirah Asora Bay will be on the La Mer South peninsula and will feature 103 rooms and suites, as well as 20 villas.

The group will also open Jumeirah Residences Asora Bay, a set of 29 residences comprising of four to six-bedroom apartments, one seven-bedroom penthouse and six ocean villas. Elsewhere, in Dubai’s business district, Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers will feature 754 units that range in size from one to four bedrooms.

Seabourn announces 145-day world cruise

Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, has unveiled its “2027 World Cruise: Australia & South Pacific Panorama,” a 145-day roundtrip voyage from Miami that will chart an extraordinary journey through some of the world’s most captivating regions in the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and South America. Sailing between Jan. 5 and May 30, 2027, the award-winning Seabourn Quest will travel nearly 34,000 nautical miles and visit 67 destinations in 19 countries.

World’s first Orient Express hotel opens in Rome

Set with a meticulously restored 17th-century palazzo at Piazza della Minerva 69 right in the heart of the city, Orient Express La Minerva has been officially opened. Steeped in rich history, with past visitors including luminaries like Stendhal and Melville, the hotel features 93 rooms and 36 suites – each with a unique feel and layout that pays tribute to the “golden age of travel”.

Prime Jet expands fleet with three new aircraft

Prime Jet has strengthened its global fleet with three Gulfstream aircraft—the sleek, factory-fresh G650, alongside a G550 and GIVSP. With long-range capabilities and refined interiors, these additions not only increase access to international charters but reflect Prime Jet’s continued investment in comfort, technology, and meticulous aircraft presentation. From new seating and onboard Starlink internet to modernised finishes, nearly half the fleet has seen 2025 upgrades, reinforcing the company’s reputation for quality and care at 45,000 feet.

Final resort for Red Sea Global’s AMAALA revealed

Red Sea Global (RSG) has unveiled Nammos Resort AMAALA, setting a new standard for luxury in the Red Sea region. This partnership marks Nammos Hotels & Resorts’ first hotel outside of Greece, bringing its iconic Cycladic elegance and world-renowned hospitality to Saudi Arabia.

Located at Triple Bay and offering breathtaking ocean and Hijaz Cove views, Nammos Resort AMAALA will welcome guests later this year, promising an unparalleled experience defined by sophisticated design, exceptional amenities, and a harmonious blend of Mykonian and Hijazi influences.

Isle Blue unveils a bold new villa collection in Mexico

Move over, Amalfi. Make room, Saint-Tropez. A new coastal destination is rising, and the world’s most discerning travelers are already taking notice. With its blend of breathtaking Pacific views, world-class design, and unmatched privacy, Punta Mita is quickly becoming the next great luxury hotspot — and Isle Blue is leading the way with the launch of its latest curated villa collection.

From striking modern architecture to laid-back tropical elegance, the new portfolio of villas includes beachfront estates, hillside hideaways, and expansive homes ideal for families, retreats, or milestone celebrations. All properties include full concierge service, daily housekeeping, and access to Punta Mita’s exclusive resort amenities.

PONANT to launch first ever Antarctica circumnavigation cruise

In a bold first for expedition cruising, PONANT’s luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot will attempt a complete circumnavigation of Antarctica, tracing nearly 18,000 kilometres of the frozen continent’s coastline. Departing Ushuaia westward and returning via the eastern shores after a stop in Hobart, the two-leg voyage spans over two months of remote exploration and elemental extremes.

Purpose-built for polar navigation and powered by LNG hybrid technology, the vessel marries cutting-edge sustainability with raw adventure. Charted by seasoned captains and shaped by a spirit of discovery, the journey will commence in early 2028 a rare encounter with one of Earth’s last untouched frontiers.

Emerald Cruises unveils three new ships

Emerald Cruises, part of the acclaimed Scenic Group portfolio, today unveiled a major multi-ship expansion for 2027, building on the momentum of Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra, both set to launch in April 2026. The 2027 growth will introduce two new superyachts and one new European river ship – including the brand’s first-ever vessel on the iconic Seine River. Together, these additions reflect the next phase in Emerald Cruises’ evolution and a forward-thinking deployment strategy designed to fuel continued growth in the luxury travel sector. The strategic expansion underscores the brand’s momentum as it sails into its second decade, with a fleet and guest experience shaped by design, destination and innovation.

The most Instagrammable hotel in the world

Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets, a Hyatt Inclusive Collection resort, has been named The Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World for 2025 by luxury trade publication, Luxury Travel Advisor. Following the resort’s first victory in this contest in 2024, Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is now one of only two resorts to secure two consecutive wins in the history of the competition. 

SLS Hotels debuts in Barcelona

SLS Hotels has landed in Europe with flair, unveiling its Barcelona outpost on the sun-drenched Port Forum waterfront—just steps from the sea and minutes from the city’s heart. With 471 rooms boasting marina views, sculptural bathrooms and breezy balconies, the hotel masterfully combines its Mediterranean ease with the brand’s signature edge. Three pools, six restaurants, and a spa anchor the experience, marking a confident European debut for the lifestyle label already known for high-rise glamour in Dubai and beyond.

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