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The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train launches the first spa on the rails in England and Wales
Debuting in July 2025, the Britannic Explorer, a Belmond Train, announces the ultimate in slow luxury with a partnership with British wellbeing brand, Wildsmith, and an exclusive Wellness Suite on board the train. For the first time, Wildsmith brings its expertise to a train, curating treatments exclusive to, and inspired by the journey. Housed in one of the train’s ten beautifully designed carriages, the Suite will be the first experience of its kind on a train in England and Wales. Wildsmith’s treatment menu will centre on five bespoke experiences with mindfulness, grounding techniques and personalised reflection at its core – inspired by the world outside the train windows. Designed exclusively for the Britannic Explorer, Wildsmith have created a ‘Signature Circadian Rhythm Reset’ treatment drawing inspiration from the lifecycle of trees and the body’s natural rhythms. There will be three distinct and tailored treatments throughout the day including: a morning revitalising session, a midday purifying session, and a calming evening ritual. Britannic Explorer, a Belmond Train will depart from July 2025, with luxury accommodation starting from £11,000 based on a double cabin. This includes a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages onboard. The Wellness Suite will be bookable for guests on each journey.
Belmond appoints Alex D’aguiar as Global Head of Restaurants & Bars
Belmond has appointed Alex D’Aguiar as Global Head of Restaurants & Bars as it continues the journey to take its food and beverage offering to new heights. Alex will be instrumental in shaping and delivering Belmond’s plans to elevate its restaurants and bars across its entire portfolio, spanning its hotels, trains, lodges, and boats. In his role Alex will work with renowned Chefs and talented teams around the world, who pride themselves on providing exceptional bar and dining experiences which invite guests to discover a new pace of travel. With over 20 years’ experience in F&B, Alex has led and developed an array of extremely successful restaurants and bars. Alex’s experience includes Head of Development at Eclectic Bar Group PLC and Operations Director at Gordon Ramsay Group, this was followed by being appointed as Operations Director of Goodman Restaurant Group in early 2019 and then Managing Director in early 2020. After the successful navigation of Goodman Group through the pandemic, in September 2021 Alex was appointed as Managing Director of newly formed Creative Restaurant Group by Global Restaurateur Misha Zelman. This was followed by his partnership with Michelin Star Chef Endo Kazutoshi, which included the launch of multiple new concepts; Sumi Notting Hill, Humo Mayfair (1* Michelin), Niju Mayfair, Kioku by Endo at the OWO. Alongside this, Alex also led the development and successful opening of Klaw Miami in the summer of 2022 and was a judge for the Restaurant & Bars Design Awards in 2024. In his new position, which starts on 12 March 2025, Alex reports to Iain Langridge, Vice President Global Operations. Iain Langridge said: "The team and I are delighted to welcome Alex to Belmond as we continue to elevate our restaurants and bars offering. Alex will play a leading role in shaping our Restaurant and Bars strategy through the lens of Slow Luxury across our whole portfolio and will work with world famous chefs and on award winning dining and bar concepts that celebrate contemporary heritage and, are deeply rooted in their destinations.” Alex D’Aguiar stated: “I am honoured to be joining Belmond, and to build on its impressive reputation for its bars and exceptional culinary experiences, where culture, food and design collide. I look forward to working with the team on further elevating these offerings and writing the brand’s gastronomic and bar experiences’ next chapter.”
Belmond launches ‘Long Shots’
This January, Belmond invites you to start the year with a sense of calm and tranquility with the launch of its new film series, 'Long Shots'. Embracing the 'Slow TV' phenomenon, these 60-minute films are designed for passive viewing and active dreaming, capturing the sights and sounds of Belmond destinations around the world, in exquisite detail. Anchored to Belmond’s ‘Slow Luxury’ brand DNA, steeped in the value of time and mindful living; to discover a new pace of travel, 'Long Shots' offers a taster of Belmond’s incomparable experiences. 'Long Shots' offers viewers an immersive experience, transporting them to Belmond’s enchanting locations starting with Portofino, Rio de Janeiro, Scotland, Sardinia, Amalfi and Burgundy. These films are best enjoyed on a large screen with the volume turned up, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of each destination. In a world where social media video clips are becoming shorter and attention spans are dwindling, the so-called Slow TV phenomenon has emerged as an intriguing counterbalance. Originating in Scandinavia back in 2009, Slow TV has since gained global popularity, with the New York Times describing it as 'soothing digital rooms.' These ambient films, whether depicting a crackling log fire or softly falling snow, have been linked to improved mental health and enhanced concentration.
Belmond presents luxurious plans for 2025
Belmond shares its strategic outlook for 2025: plans that mark its expansion in several aspects of luxury travel to diversify its portfolio. The luxury travel firm plans to expand its world-leading railway offering with the launch of a new sleeper train; further enhance and diversify its remarkable portfolio by taking it to greater heights; amplify its range of cultural and culinary experiences. The strategy behind these plans aims to bring the concept of Slow Luxury to life. What is Slow Luxury? With Slow Luxury, each property’s identity is steeped in the value of time and promotes mindful living. It is crafted through the thoughtful curation of an outstanding portfolio and the attentive creation of memorable life experiences. Slow Luxury celebrates exceptional craftsmanship, local sourcing, curated exclusivity, genuine encounters and cultural richness. The concept cultivates a sense of time that allows for deeper connections: with cultures, with nature, with people, and with oneself. Belmond CEO Dan Ruff said: “Our properties' identity is rooted in Slow Luxury. In 2025, we will elevate this further by inviting guests to discover a new pace of travel, allowing for deeper connections with the destination. They can embark on the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, or indulge in our first private summer residence in Portofino. We continue to build a new legacy as we enhance our properties, focusing on celebration, epic journeys, wellness in nature and creative terroir.” Luxury on the tracks In July 2025, Belmond will launch the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales: Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, UK. It will fuse a celebration of exceptional rail history and epic touring with contemporary British gastronomy, culture and style, offering three or six-night journeys with a selection of three captivating routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales. Fine dining experiences will be designed by acclaimed Michelin star Chef Simon Rogan, pioneer of the farm-to-fork movement. A considered cultural programming will offer exclusive access to some of the nations’ rare or hidden gems. Wilderness will be enjoyed through open-water swimming and invigorating hikes. The train, crafted in England with elegant interiors by Albion Nord, will feature 18 cabins (15 Suites and three Grand Suites), a wellness suite, two restaurant cars and a bar located in the Observation Car. The Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, UK will introduce a majestic seven-night new journey, the Grand Tour of Scotland, a new Grand Suite carriage named Heron in July 2025 and Chef Tom Kitchin will be back on board for a unique gastronomic experience on the rails. In March 2025, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe’s most extraordinary new carriage will join the rake, redefining the modern luxury rail experience and setting a new milestone and legacy for the future of the industry. L'Observatoire by artist JR is the train's first carriage designed by an artist, and is its most exclusive and spacious accommodation type, encompassing an entire carriage. The interiors flow through several micro-environments, from the bedroom featuring a free-standing bathtub, a bathroom, a lounge with a daybed, library, hidden Tea Room, with never-seen-before oculus-shaped skylights. This artwork in motion pays tribute to the train's rich history of timeless craftsmanship and its myriad mythical journeys: inspiring wonder and curiosity, it adds a new dimension to time travel and invites travellers to reconnect with their creative selves. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express will continue to launch new itineraries pairing the Art Deco journey on board with a lavish stay in storied Belmond Italian properties to convey a sense of time-travelling grandeur. The highly acclaimed Paris to Portofino route launched in 2024 will return and can be combined with a stay at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino. In spring 2025, a Paris to Tuscany route will launch and the journey can be extended to Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany.
Belmond unveils the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train
Belmond proudly unveils the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, debuting in July 2025. Embarking on a new chapter of exceptional slow travel, the pioneering train fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style. Fine dining experiences will be designed by renowned Chef Simon Rogan, celebrated for his innovative approach and the exceptional quality across his restaurants, which collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide; his acclaimed establishment, L’Enclume, is a highlight of his culinary vision. An on-board wellness suite provides therapies designed to relax and revive, and considered cultural programming invites travellers to discover the essence of Britain, offering an unparalleled perspective and exclusive access to some of the nations’ hidden gems. The Britannic Explorer will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice of three evocative routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, The Lake District, and Wales. By day, optional off-train guided excursions will showcase the rich cultural tapestry, beauty, and history of each destination, and by night, passengers can unwind and mingle in the train’s botanically inspired Bar, located in the Observation Car, set to be the vibrant social heart of the Britannic Explorer. The routes are scheduled to allow travellers to combine two regional journeys into one trip: The Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday. Crafting a window on Britain in motion Setting a new standard in luxury design, the renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, has created serenely elegant interiors with an unmistakable British charm, distinct to the train. Combining a colour palette inspired by the breathtaking natural world beyond the expanse of picture-windows, with heritage motifs and playful details, the ensuing environment is both tranquil and vibrant. Each of the Britannic Explorer’s 18 cabins couple sophistication with comfort. The three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been carefully crafted in Britain and delicately designed to make the experience of the journey as extraordinary as the destination. Inspired by sweeping views of Britain’s rugged coastlines and rolling hills, each moment is transformed into a visual feast, whether passengers feel at home in the privacy of their cabin, relaxing in the onboard spa, or indulging in the Bar and restaurant cars. A new vision of British gastronomy The dining experience aboard the Britannic Explorer will be designed by award-winning restaurateur Simon Rogan, a visionary leader in Britain’s farm-to-fork movement. Rogan’s menus will celebrate seasonal, sustainable ingredients, sourced locally to showcase the richness of Britain’s diverse regions. Each of the three routes will feature bespoke afternoon tea, lunch and dinner menus, highlighting the finest local specialties to ensure every meal is a true reflection of Britain’s culinary heritage. Speaking of the collaboration, Simon Rogan shared: “For me, true luxury lies in humble ingredients, grown with care, respect for their surroundings, and harvested at their peak. Across all my restaurants, my dishes are defined by local, often home-grown produce, and by partnering with British growers and suppliers who share our deep connection to the land and its natural elements. This philosophy allows our food to resonate with the environment from which it originates. I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes. I hope every passenger not only enjoys the flavours but also feels a connection between the dishes and the journey, making their time on board truly memorable.” The Bar, inspired by Victorian apothecaries, provides an elegant and convivial atmosphere where guests can savour a menu of innovative, botanically inspired cocktails, alongside a carefully curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers, highlighting the finest offerings from the UK’s independent distilleries and breweries. A cultural adventure through cinematic landscapes The Britannic Explorer presents a fresh perspective on England and Wales, offering exclusive journeys and privileged access to some of the region’s most iconic destinations. Guests can experience world-class galleries, breathtaking national parks, and historically rich cities in a uniquely immersive way. Highlights include a private tour and dinner at the renowned Hauser & Wirth Somerset and on-site restaurant Da Costa, guided hikes through picturesque Wales, wild swimming in the stunning landscapes of the Lake district and a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall. Gary Franklin, Vice President of Trains and Cruises, Belmond commented: "I am incredibly proud to launch this revolutionary new train, which further enhances Belmond’s global portfolio of market-leading luxury rail experiences. The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique; an opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline to Snowdonia’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before. We are especially delighted to welcome the esteemed Chef Simon Rogan to helm the culinary direction. His vision brings a gastronomic journey that complements the train’s spirit of adventure, celebrating British produce and highlighting the finest local specialties along the route.” Elevating Belmond’s unrivaled UK portfolio of exceptional experiences The launch of the Britannic Explorer further elevates Belmond’s award-winning UK portfolio of elegant trains and heritage hotels. The iconic British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England, is celebrated for its elegant Art Deco design and unforgettable day trips, and the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland, offers the nation’s only luxury touring sleeper train through the Highlands. Belmond’s boutique hotel, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, just a 20-minute transfer from the London Victoria station, will offer a seamless pre- or post-rail stay, as an oasis of calm within the capital. For those traveling through the Cotswolds on the Lake District route, the Britannic Explorer offers an exclusive stop at the Michelin two-star manor house hotel and restaurant, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire. Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board.
Riviera reborn: A new era for Splendido, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino and the launch of Villa Beatrice
Portofino, the jewel of the Italian Riviera will enter a new era of splendour next June, as the town’s original Grand Dame, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino reveals a new, major phase of its multi-year renovation, by internationally renowned Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. An emblem of Portofino’s allure since the 1950s, the hotel will reveal an entirely renovated main building, capturing the spirit of Ligurian craftsmanship and design, including a redesigned cocktail bar and new Dior Spa. Notably, this third phase of Splendido's renovation coincides with the launch of Villa Beatrice in Portofino – a first-of-its-kind, exclusive private villa for the Belmond portfolio, launching July 2025. A new era for Portofino’s Grande Dame The meticulous restoration of the former 16th-century Benedictine monastery, led by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, honours the history of the building while delicately injecting contemporary relevance. Over the course of each summer reopening, the hotel has unveiled new spaces: 2024 welcomed new rooms and a lobby, whilst in 2023 the hotel revealed the transformation of the celebrated pool area, famously overlooking the sparkling Ligurian Bay, as well as the new Splendido Grill restaurant and the renovated Baronessa Suite, one of the hotel’s signature suites, inspired by the noble Palazzos of the region. For the 2025 season, Splendido, a legendary haven of glamour and natural beauty, will continue its evolution revealing a renovated main building, with a focus on new rooms and communal areas, including a restyled cocktail bar; coffee bar; lounge bar; breakfast area; retail space; champagne display and Dior Spa. This new wellness space includes four treatment cabins and a dedicated relaxation space on an exclusive roof terrace. The new rooms and suites are adorned with contemporary Italian artworks and local botanical prints, whilst the corridors feature exclusive sketches of Portofino and heritage photos of the iconic property and its guests, over the years. Nestled in the tranquil hillside above Portofino, Splendido has been the epitome of la Dolce Vita since the 1950s. Set in a terraced former 16th-century Benedictine monastery overlooking the bay, the hotel is both a timeless retreat and a glamorous destination, welcoming acclaimed guests from renowned actors to artists and film directors, and even royalty. Inspired by the natural beauty and legacy of the Ligurian Riviera, Splendido's landscaping offers versatile spaces capable of hosting both grand events and smaller, more intimate gatherings. The planting scheme incorporates indigenous flora and minerals, reflecting the distinctive beauty of Portofino. The colour palette draws inspiration from the blues and turquoises of the Mediterranean Sea, while the unique "Puddinga" rock formations of Portofino's cliffs and the fragrant subtropical and Ligurian herbs further enhance the botanical ambience. The rebirth of Villa Beatrice, a majestic summer residence Just a short walk down the tranquil hillside of the protected national park lies Villa Beatrice, launching in July 2025 as one of the most scenic, exclusive private villas on the Italian Riviera - and a first for the Belmond portfolio. Perched on a private spit above Punta Caiega, on the Gulf of Portofino, between the Ligurian coastal hamlets of Paraggi and Portofino, this masterfully restored family palazzo offers an outstanding panoramic viewpoint over the Riviera. Belmond’s new private villa offering brings guests seclusion and intimacy with private sea access, whilst benefitting from all of Splendido’s hotel services. Located within the gardens of a national park and set across three main floors, with an additional ‘Torretta’ (little tower) attic floor and rooftop terrace, the villa summer residence sleeps up to ten guests across five keys, including La Casetta - a secluded one-bedroom cottage amidst citrus groves. Originally known as Villa Odero and built by renowned Ligurian mogul Attilio Odero, Villa Beatrice was crafted by Tuscan architect Gino Coppedè, blending Gothic Revival with Art Nouveau innovation. Belmond acquired the villa in 2021 and has since overseen its meticulous restoration under Martin Brudnizki’s interior design vision and Marco Bay’s landscape architecture expertise. Design highlights include the renovation of original Coppedè external frescoes and internal ceilings, marble bathrooms and a collection of heritage antiques and contemporary artwork from the region. Guests will enjoy a subtropical secret sea garden, plunge pool with sun deck, butler service, a fully equipped kitchen with personal chef upon request, gym, summer pavilion for yoga or treatments and an expansive shaded terrace for al fresco dining and family gatherings. Every angle of Belmond’s lush lookout offers a private panorama of Portofino and beyond. Villa Beatrice enjoys a majestic position on the Gulf of Tigullio, with views over Paraggi and the Cinque Terre to the East, and Portofino to the West, and the lower terraces of the Villa offer a much closer view of Portofino Bay.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe presents L’Observatoire, a new carriage designed by artist JR
The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe remakes history by bringing L’Observatoire – a private and exclusive sleeper carriage designed by leading artist JR – to Venice for a one-of-a-kind project reveal during Biennale Arte. Between 17 and 22 April 2024 the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will give the public the unique opportunity to peek inside this historic carriage through several viewpoints located on its windows and discover JR's design unfolding through different environments including a bedroom, an ensuite bathroom, lounge area, library, and secret tearoom. Hidden clues and secret details are layered within the intricate marquetry and evocative spaces, to drive curiosity and instill a sense of imagination in the viewers. A key milestone for the history of this legendary train, this new sleeper carriage will become the most spacious accommodation on board, and it will provide guests with an immersive experience in motion as they crisscross Europe on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. VENICE BOUND The visionary James B. Sherwood founded Belmond in 1976 with the acquisition of Venice landmark property, Hotel Cipriani. The following year, to accomplish his ambition to bring back to life the ‘golden age of travel’ with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, he acquired two original sleeper carriages at a Sotheby's auction in Monte Carlo. After collecting and meticulously restoring 17 carriages, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operated its first trip to Venice in May 1982. The arrival of the iconic train in the lagoon was marked by a glamorous party at the Hotel Cipriani, where two carriages were docked and displayed in front of St Mark’s Square for Venetians and visitors to admire. Consolidating its position as a leader in perpetuating the art of travel while instilling it with new life, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express brings to Venice L’Observatoire by JR, 42 years after Mr Sherwood showcased the Étoile du Nord dining car and one of the sleeper carriages in the lagoon. Gary Franklin, Vice Presidents Trains & Cruises at Belmond says: ‘The team and I are thrilled to be working with JR, who shares with us a real passion for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. L’Observatoire is a testament to our company’s prominent role in reinventing the railway experience as we perpetuate the art of slow luxury across our growing portfolio.’ L’Observatoire will join the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in 2025
Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train, Southeast Asia returns to Singapore
The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia is proud to announce the appointment of Chef André Chiang as its new Culinary Curator. With two Michelin stars and a placement in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants under his belt, Chef Chiang will bring his innovative touch and expertise to curate a dining experience that captures the diverse terroir of Southeast Asia. Remaining true to the region’s biodiversity and the kaleidoscope of cultures, Chiang's menu will feature dishes like Laksa Bouillabaisse, Black-bone Chicken Consommé and Jungle Spices Cacao Ganache. At the Piano Bar Carriage and Observation Car, guests can sip on botanical-inspired libations and vintage cocktails conceptualised by global creative hospitality consultancy, The Cocktail Professor, as well as non-alcoholic drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, local craft beers and artisanal Malaysian coffees. Veuve Clicquot Solaire journey on board The Eastern & Oriental Express The Eastern & Oriental Express and leading Champagne Maison, Veuve Clicquot invite travellers on a bespoke Solaire Journey inspired by the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot and the joie de vivre embodied by the champagne's yellow label. This railway experience blends champagne and culinary excellences with a dash of adventure as guests whiz through the wonders of Malaysia and explore the 130-million-year-old Taman Negara National Park. Only on this trip, guests will have access to Veuve Clicquot's Cellar Master, Didier Mariotti, who will lead champagne tastings, as well as the train's Culinary Curator, André Chiang, who will design bespoke dishes to be paired with the maison's most prestigious vintages, including La Grande Dame series. Veuve Clicquot's Solaire Journey runs from 22 - 25 April 2024. Routes of change Launching in March, the Eastern and Oriental Express' new Wild Malaysia itinerary, includes an excursion into the Taman Negara National Park, where guests can choose between three activities: an educational tour of the park to learn about the endangered Malayan Tigers, a wildlife photography class or an exploration of the rainforest's ancient caves. This May, a special Tiger Express journey designed with the train's partner, Save Wild Tigers, aims to raise awareness of the conservation efforts to save the Malay Tiger from extinction, contributing to the fight against illegal poaching and habitat loss. This unique journey incorporates the Wild Malaysia itinerary, concluding with two nights at The Datai in Langkawi. New design and elevated onboard experiences The revamped Eastern & Oriental Express boasts eight sleeping carriages, two restaurants, a Piano Bar, and the open-air Observation Car. The cabins – Pullman, State, and Presidential – are air-conditioned, cherry-wood panelled sanctuaries whose designs reflect the different landscapes the train travels through. The Pullman cabins draw inspiration from Kuala Lumpur, featuring red and blue accents resembling the city's skyline, the State cabins reflect Penang's marine locale with a blue and green palette, and the Presidential Suites exude opulence with hues of gold and embroidered elements. The new in-cabin experience stimulates all senses with customisable elements, offering guests a sensory journey through scents, lights, playlists, teas, and premium bedding. Daytime encounters with locals are complemented by nightly entertainment featuring resident musicians and special acts, like the Shang Sisters, a trio known for blending Jazz tunes with Nanyang flair.
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, Celebrates 100 Years of Timeless Elegance and Cultural Legacy
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, proudly celebrates its centennial anniversary with the launch of an extraordinary annual arts, gastronomy, and cultural program that will captivate guests throughout 2023. Under the banner of "#100doCopa," a series of curated events will showcase the hotel's enduring spirit and its integral role in the vibrant tapestry of Rio de Janeiro's cultural landscape. It includes the remarkable transformation of the iconic swimming pool area and the highly anticipated release of the beautifully illustrated book, "COPACABANA PALACE, WHERE RIO STARTS," published by Vendome. COPA: A NEW ERA FOR RIO'S MOST ICONIC HOTEL Embracing a new era, Copacabana Palace's iconic swimming pool area underwent a remarkable transformation in August. Meticulously redesigned by renowned carioca architect Ivan Rezende, who previously restored Copa's historical Theatre in 2021, the glamorous hotspot now boasts a renewed allure, paying homage to #100doCopa. Featuring delightful parasols, luxurious sun loungers, and bespoke fabrics inspired by the hotel's golden age, the poolside area exudes a sense of timeless elegance. Drawing inspiration from the hotel's illustrious archives, the reimagined poolside design evokes nostalgia while embracing the vivacious spirit of Rio de Janeiro. Striped parasols, tropical-patterned linings exclusively crafted for the hotel, and fringe details reminiscent of pompoms bring a burst of vibrant colors. The carefully chosen shades of green and orange further enhance the ambiance, creating a perfect synergy between the historical vibrancy of the hotel and the carioca spirit of the city. Continuing the transformation, Copacabana Palace's legendary façade now boasts a captivating new lighting system. This delicately installed lighting further accentuates the grandeur of the hotel's 1920s art deco building, standing tall on the world-renowned Copacabana Beach. Illuminating the meticulously restored façade adornments, the lights create alternative ambiances, enhancing the visual splendor of this architectural masterpiece at every hour of the day. COPACABANA PALACE, WHERE RIO STARTS On December 5th, the captivating story of Copacabana Palace's old-world elegance and contemporary flamboyance will be immortalized in a beautifully illustrated book published by Vendome. With its allure of timeless glamour, seductive mystery and legendary moments, the stories of Copa will be captured through the words of renowned travel writer, Francesca Matteoli, and lens of fashion, architecture and art photographer, Tuca Reines. From its extraordinary beginnings in 1923 to the stylish destination that it is today, the book will take readers on a journey through the gilded age of Hollywood, colourful Carnival balls, and the many rhythms of the city that surrounds it. Themed chapters and exquisite photography explore how the hotel has been a part of Rio de Janeiro life for 100 years—from its opening in 1923, when there were few other buildings in the area, to the golden age of Hollywood glamour, the extraordinary free concert on Copacabana Beach given by the Rolling Stones in 2006 (with more than 1.5 million people attend- ing), and beyond. Affectionately dubbed “the Copa” by cariocas (locals) and guests alike, the hotel is famous for events such as the Carnival balls in February and the celebrations at New Year’s Eve, when everyone flocks to Copacabana Beach. Events and stories such as these are featured in this stylish book, which also includes specially commissioned photography that reveals the hotel’s stunning cinematic views, magnificent design, and extraordinary guests. Capturing the magic of one of the world’s most fabulous destinations, this book is a story of people and a culture—of both old–world elegance and contemporary flamboyance.
Iconic Maroma, a Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya reborn with 72 keys
On 3 August 2023, the Riviera Maya’s most storied hideaway Maroma, A Belmond Hotel has made its much-anticipated return. Set amongst 200 acres of lush tropical jungle and the secluded white sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Maroma has been carefully reimagined with Mayan design, traditions, and culture at the forefront. The reborn icon now has 72 rooms, suites, and villas outfitted with a blend of local materials, artisanal patterns, and traditional craftsmanship and four dining destinations including a new gastronomic restaurant, Woodend by Curtis Stone, by the renowned Michelin-star chef and Casa Mayor by Mexican-born Executive Chef Daniel Camacho, where authentic local cuisine takes centre stage. The biophilic Maroma Spa by Guerlain is a holistic wellness retreat with a menu of nature-focused treatments and immersive guest experiences including an onsite apothecary and Meliponario, housing the revered Melipona bee. Building on its legacy of care for the community and environment, Maroma also unveils ground-breaking sustainability initiatives both on-property and in the community. Deeply embedded into the soul of the Yucatán, Maroma enters a new era as the beating heart of the Riviera Maya. A SOULFUL CELEBRATION OF MEXICAN CRAFT AND DESIGN Internationally renowned design studio Tara Bernerd & Partners honours Mexican heritage while enhancing the original architecture of Maroma, whose white stucco buildings are aligned to the Sacred Geometry of Mayan masonry. Tara Bernerd and her team hand-selected local artisans to work in collaboration with to showcase the extraordinary range of pan-Mexican art and design, with each piece of furniture and décor carefully designed by Bernerd exclusively for Maroma. A journey to showcase the best of the country, 80% of furnishings and objects are handcrafted in Mexico like ceramicist José Noé Suro, who in collaboration with Tara Bernerd and her team, crafted over 700,000 hand-painted Jalisco clay tiles for the guestrooms; Henequen Textiles, with rugs woven from a hemplike material sourced from specific species of the agave plant; and artist Eduardo Ricon, who created shadow boxes displaying native botanicals. The reborn Maroma channels effortlessly chic, hacienda-style living. The relaxed, residential design encourages guests to flow between the public areas, discovering intimate, tucked-away corners and lingering on exquisite details like handwoven textiles from Oaxaca, traditional glazed Saltillo floor tiles from Guadalajara, traditional Yucatan doors crafted out of heavy timber frames, and chandeliers crafted out of shells to Tara Bernerd & Partners’ designs, who took inspiration from local Mayan jade jewelry. Curved lines, organic forms, and expansive views of the Caribbean Sea inspire a feeling of being aligned with nature. The property’s three pools have also been completely redesigned with Sukabumi tiles handmade from volcanic stone , in the same vibrant turquoise tones as the region’s many natural cenotes. REGIONAL FLAVORS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT Belmond has partnered with Michelin-star chef and world-class restaurateur Curtis Stone to debut Woodend by Curtis Stone, the hotel’s signature restaurant. A celebration of the connection between sea and jungle, Woodend by Curtis Stone features seasonal dishes inspired by the farmers and fishermen whose ingredients are the heart and soul of the local fare, prepared using Curtis’ signature open-fire technique. Paying respect to the Yucatán Peninsula, its history, and traditions, dishes include grilled blue shrimp with green mango, apple, daikon and charred almonds; oyster crudo with pineapple mignonette and lemongrass; and Baja Striped Bass with tomato fondue, habanero vinegar and pink peppercorn. The menu also features an extensive range of plant-based dishes, cabbage heart with seeded macha and camembert or Mayan rice with maitake mushrooms, Chaya spinach and wheat berries. SACRED RITUALS, HEALING VIBRATIONS Founded on the principles of nature and vitality, wellness will take on a new dimension at Maroma Spa by Guerlain. Launching in November, the spa, a temple for rejuvenation and a place of deep spirituality, will mark the first Spa by Guerlain in Latin America. The newly renovated biophilic space will feature nine treatment rooms that look out to the jungle and incorporate local design elements with geometric shapes and artisanal objects. Healing rituals are inspired by the four elements of nature—fire, water, earth, and air—ancient practices, and the sacred Melipona bee, revered by the Mayans for over 3,000 years as a symbol of spiritual resonance. A signature treatment will be the Bee Healing Ritual, a honey-based treatment renowned for its effective healing powers that calls on Guerlain’s Abeille Royale collection. AN IMMERSION INTO MEXICO’S MOST IRRESISTIBLE REGION From design and culinary to immersive experiences, every moment at Maroma is seamlessly intertwined into Mayan culture and traditions. Days can begin with a bike ride through the jungle before savoring the flavors of the Riviera Maya, whether discovering the artisanal process of cooking corn and making tortillas by hand during the Nixtamal Journey or signing up for an The Journey Around the Agave to explore the multiple origins, methods, and chemistry profiles that make tequila, mezcal and sotol distinct. The only luxury hotel in the Riviera Maya with a Starlight Tourism Certification by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Maroma is the ideal spot for stargazing each night, where an astronomer will map out the Mayan constellations and share the integral role the night sky played in everyday life. A not-to-miss experience paired with biodynamic wines. To further commune with Yucatán treasures, Maroma offers easy access to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, where guests can dive into the underwater world on PADI-certified dives and private snorkeling tours, or head to an exclusive cenote nearby , choosing between an open sky dip or an excursion through an underground cavern. A LOCAL STORY OF SUSTAINABILITY Maroma has a long history of working with local organisations and will continue collaborating with Fundación Selva Maya and Mayahuum to protect the endangered Melipona bee, which is critical to the ecology of the Yucatán peninsula. Belmond will amplify its impact through its partnership with Guerlain. Initiatives include expanding resident hives, with the aim to reach at least 100 new hives by 2025, and introducing Guerlain’s Bee School and “Women for Bees” initiatives into Yucatán communities. As part of the programme, Mayan women from local communities will raise bees in their respective communities to preserve traditional know-how and raise awareness of the ancient tradition. On property, a Mayan beekeeper will undergo in-depth training to care for Maroma’s hives, while guests can sign up for workshops on the importance of the species’ survival and reap the medicinal and savory benefits through bee-centric spa and culinary experiences. Maroma is also proud member of the EarthCheck program, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking certification and advisory group for travel and tourism, in part to its measures to increase endemic biodiversity. An onsite nursery produces over two thousand endemic plants, some of which are in danger of extinction.
Belmond Hotels
Samui, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand Thailand
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