What’s new, October 2024
CATAMARAN CALLING
The Tailor, Australia
The big news Down Under is from Eclipse Expeditions who are offering The Tailor’s clients the chance to explore Australia’s pristine west coast on a new Leopard 50 Catamaran. For the first time, guests will sail in six-star comfort to discover rugged Kimberley’s ancient rock art, world-class fishing in the untouched Montebello Islands, and the award-winning wine of Margaret River.
PERU’S MOST EXCLUSIVE POP-UP
Enigma, Peru
Silvia from Enigma is just back from a few days with regenerative hospitality pioneers 700,000 Heures Impact. Their incredible new lodge, deep in the rainforest, invites guests to experience the life and heritage of a local community, taking in the breadth of its culture and ancestral knowledge. If purposeful travel is a priority, you have to give this a closer look.
THE COMEBACK OF THE YEAR
Galavanta, Colombia
Beautifully refurbished following hurricane damage a few years ago, the show-stopping Monasterio del Viento has reopened on tiny Providencia Island in the Caribbean. Galavanta is sending clients keen on experiencing authentic Caribbean culture, cooking and world-class diving (it’s in one of the largest coral reefs in the world). With three bedrooms for up to 12 guests, it’s perfect for special family getaways.
NEW ZEALAND’S BEST VIEW?
Ahipara, New Zealand
In NZ, Ahipara’s favourite new opening is the owner-operated Okoro Villa in Nelson, South Island. A beautiful 126-acre property on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, it’s a peak spot for a nature-based retreat. Jean-Michel assures me that the owners are “special people” – and they’ve just recruited one of his favourite chefs!
SOUTHEAST TÜRKIYE BACK ON ITS FEET
ITEM, Türkiye
Hotels, restaurants and museums are beginning to reopen in southeast Türkiye following the earthquakes that hit 18 months ago. The team at ITEM are excited about returning to Antakya – one of the oldest cities in the world – whose archaeological museum will open at the start of next year. But the big news is its plan to open a whole new gastronomy quarter. Watch this space.
NEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN RAJASTHAN
Banyan, India
Banyan sent me an interesting update about the recently revamped Jaipur House in Mount Abu. A boutique hotel in Rajasthan’s only hill station, this 19th-century property still belongs to the royal family of Jaipur and has been a hotel for decades. Today designer Marie-Anne Oudejans has added her trademark splash of colour, making it an interesting new addition.