Mexico News
Hilton Signs Three Beachfront Resorts in Mexico
As Hilton continues its investment in the luxury and all-inclusive space, the hospitality company has signed three beachfront resorts in Mexico.
The newest additions to the company’s portfolio—Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort, Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort, and Conrad Tulum—are expected to join by the end of the year and early 2022.
Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort is expected to convert in the fourth quarter of 2021. Situated between the beaches of the Bay of Banderas and the majestic Sierra Madres Mountains, the 444-room resort features a private beach, two pools, full-service spa, fitness center, six craft cocktail bars, and seven specialty restaurants offering a variety of cuisine.
Conrad Tulum and Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort are anticipated to join the Hilton portfolio in the fourth quarter of 2021 and first quarter of 2022, respectively.
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters, sitting on an expansive stretch of beach, the new-build 349-room Conrad Tulum will be Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ first hotel in Quintana Roo on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
The 735-room oceanfront Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort will boast unrestricted views of the picturesque waters of the Caribbean Sea. On-site will be seven dining experiences, an expansive five-pool complex with a waterpark, and a secluded beach.
All guests at either Conrad Tulum or Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort will have access to a 21,500-plus square foot spa, with 16 treatment rooms and a pool, in a private and quiet area surrounded by tropical resort grounds.
With these latest additions, travelers can choose from six Hilton all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and four luxury resorts, including the renowned Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, the recently opened Conrad Punta de Mita, and Waldorf Astoria Cancun, debuting in 2022.
Hilton currently has a portfolio of more than 70 properties in Mexico. The company continues to pursue additional growth opportunities in the region and currently has a robust pipeline of more than 30 projects across Mexico.
Cruise News
First Chinese-flagged Luxury Cruise Ship
The first Chinese-flagged luxury cruise ship, Zhao Shang Yi Dun, is planned to set sail in October as cruising resumes in mainland China.
The former Viking Sun is the first ship in a joint venture between China Merchants Shekou and Viking.
Zhao Shang Yi Dun will offer a series of seven-night cruises to destinations on China’s coast. Thirteen voyages are scheduled in 2021.
Sailing from Shanghai and Shenzhen, the three itineraries combine opportunities to experience national minorities’ traditional culture and contemporary culture.
The first voyage is scheduled to depart October 1 from Shekou cruise homeport, Shenzhen, visiting Sanya in Hainan province.
Aviation News
Masks Required on U.S. Transportation Until at Least January 2022
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration extended a federal transportation mask mandate until January 2022 as the highly contagious delta variant continues to spread throughout the United States.
The mandate has been extended until at least January 18. It requires face masks be worn in all public transportation spaces, like in airports and on planes, trains, and buses.
The extension comes as Americans have taken to the skies in record numbers this summer that, at points, have rivaled pre-pandemic travel. On many days, the TSA has screened more than two million passengers.
Several destinations and businesses have implemented indoor mask mandates in recent weeks, including the city of Las Vegas, Disney, and Carnival Cruise Line ships.
Deal of the Week
Tastes of Southern France 2022
Awaken your senses. This 11-day cruise Lyon to Lyon aboard Scenic Luxury Cruises will set your senses ablaze with the myriad of flavors, scents, and experiences on offer.
The South of France is famous around the globe for its beautiful countryside, amazing architecture, and, of course, its delicious cuisine. This incredible scenic cruise will focus on the best culinary highlights this region has to offer, from the finest wines of Beaujolais to the gastronomic capital of Lyon.
May 5-15, 2022, from US$7,420
Fly free including taxes
July 28-August 7, 2022, from US$7,570
Fly free including taxes
September 10-20, 2022, from US$7,420
Fly free including taxes
Truly all-inclusive luxury:
- 5-Star Scenic Space-Ship with up to 149 guests
- Spacious Balcony Suites with an innovative Scenic Sun Lounge
- 2 Scenic Enrich Experiences including after hours access to the Cite du Chocolate, where you will enjoy an interactive workshop and take in a private classical concert in the mighty Popes Palace in Avignon—exclusive to Scenic
- Scenic Culinaire—for exclusive on-board cooking lessons
- Personalize your trip with 27 included Scenic Freechoice activities
- Dine at your choice of up to five on board venues, from casual to fine dining
- 29 meals—10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 10 dinners
- Complimentary premium beverages all day, every day—not just at meal times
- Butler service for every suite
- Complimentary full mini-bar restocked daily
- Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area
- Scenic Tailormade App for river commentary and independent exploration
- The freedom of our e-bikes—electronically assisted bicycles
- Scenic cruise director to guide and assist and expert local guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your cruise
- Return airport transfers
- All tipping and gratuities on board and on shore
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit client’s interests, physical abilities and budget. Please contact Newell for further information on Travel News topics and around-the-world travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765, Vonage 949 300 3682; email judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.
Sources: Travelmarket Report, Seatrade Cruise News, Travel & Leisure, Scenic Luxury Cruises