The Vidanta Rivera Maya is located on the Yucatán Peninsula, sandwiched between Cancún and Playa Del Carmen. Since the resort spans over 1000 acres, there is truly something for every type of traveler, from their on-site extravagant Cirque du Soleil show to two spa experiences that allow visitors to decompress. 

Breathtaking Views

Vidanta Riviera Maya has a few different towers that guests can choose from, with each one offering a unique aspect. During my time there in November, I stayed in the One Bedroom Deluxe at the Grand Luxxe. It’s a spacious room with a private balcony overlooking the trees, a calming jacuzzi tub, a king-sized bed, and two bathrooms. 

Other on-site options include staying at the Mayan Palace, which incorporates Mexico’s history into the room designs. There’s also The Grand Mayan with room options that offer a plunge pool on the private terrace. After a long day exploring Riviera Maya or lounging by the pool, returning to any of these rooms is the perfect way to unwind. 

A Culinary Paradise

Quinto is one of the main stars of Vidanta Riviera Maya’s fine dining selections. The two-level space offers a breakfast buffet in the morning, complete with a fresh omelet station and chilaquiles. The high windows take in a ton of sunlight, making it a gorgeous way to start the morning. By night, the space transforms into an upscale dinner space. You’ll find menu offerings that change with the season (and the chef!).

Vindanta’s Salum Beachside Eateries and Market is a more casual option. However, it still maintains the resort’s attention to detail and high-quality experience. Drawing inspiration from Tulum’s food stalls, guests on the go can grab a freshly baked pastry from Santo Gusto Pan & Café, shop from other local vendors, or sample regional beers from Huama Cervecería. For a sit-down pick in this area, Robayaki Grill & Sushi blends Mexican and Japanese cuisine on their menu. 

Thrilling Entertainment: Cirque du Soleil

The star of the show at Vidanta Riviera Maya is their Cirque du Soleil show called JOYÁ. Not only is it the circus chain’s first offering in Latin America, but it also holds the title of being the only one with a themed dinner experience.

Before guests watch the title character go on a thrilling journey with flying acrobats, they get to sample a several-course meal. The food incorporates elements from the show and local culture. For example, the dessert sampler arrives inside a hollowed-out book. Pretty impressive on stage and off!

This once-in-a-lifetime experience is truly the most unique aspect of the property, and several shows are held in the theater each week. 

Other Recommended Destinations

• Viceroy Riviera Maya
• Banyan Tree Mayakoba
• Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
• Conrad Bora Bora Nui
• Nobu Hotel — Los Cabos

Yucatán Oasis

With customized culinary options, gorgeous beachside pools, and even a full waterpark for those with children, Vidanta Riviera Maya is a bucket list destination for a several-day stay. I was blown away by just how at peace I felt, even while flying down a tall water slide — which provided some of the best views of the entire property. 

Journey Beyond Aspen to the Yucátan Peninsula and Vidanta Riviera Maya. 

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Italy is one of the most visited destinations across Europe, especially as tourists want a place with the perfect blend of historical aspects, culture, and relaxation to spend their summer months. Whether you’re staying somewhere in Rome or a spot in the country that’s a little more off the beaten path, here’s what to know about taking a Journey Beyond Aspen to discover some of the best resorts in Italy. 

Although deciding where to stay in a massive country might be daunting, there is something not to miss in every part of Italy. No matter where you go, you can expect everything from beautiful views along the coast to properties dating back several centuries. If this is your first time heading to Europe or out of your home country, Italy is the perfect starting destination — and one you’ll keep wanting to return to after falling in love. 

When choosing our list of Italy’s best resorts, we considered location, activities offered, dining quality, and more. Not to mention, all of these hotels are absolutely stunning!

Il San Pietro di Positano

Positano, Amalfi Coast

This cliffside Il San Pietro di Positano Italian resort stands out for being the only leading property in Positano to house a private pool, giving guests an added feeling of luxury and safety. Most of the rooms overlook the water and weave in the stunning style of the Amalfi Coast with hints of blue and yellow furniture details. Activity-wise, there’s also plenty to do, whether you want to head out on a boat ride or practice your skills on their tennis court. 

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Tuscany

Ranked at No. 1 on T+L’s 2022 list for good reason, Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco transports guests back in time, spanning 42 suites and 11 villas across the 5,000 acres. The villas have each been carefully restored from the 1600s and 1700s, keeping the region’s earthy touches while adding a heated pool. The property boasts the only private golf club in the country. However, if sports aren’t your style, there’s also an on-site winery and Michelin-starred dining options — making it the perfect pick to join our favorite Italian resorts. 

Adler Lodge Ritten

Dolomites

For those looking to focus on sustainability during their stay, Adler Lodge Ritten is one of the best. The calming resort offers mountain views and continues the relaxing guest experience through the spa. Their all-inclusive dining runs from morning to night, whether you’re looking for a breakfast buffet or to sample selections from their seasonally-changing farm-to-table menu. After staying here, there is no doubt you’ll leave feeling completely at peace. 

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Florence

What better way to honor Italy’s history than by staying at the country’s oldest hotel? Spotlighted in Journey Beyond Aspen’s Summer 2023 issue, this property not only has architecture dating back to the 13th century, but it’s also in a prime location if you’re visiting Florence. As the city is most known for art, with the resort being a short distance from the Uffizi Gallery, this is woven into its design from the moment you enter the lobby. In any of the 70 rooms, the hotel’s signature shade of red is accented throughout the furniture, tapping into the Renaissance-era inspiration. It’s no wonder the Firenze Porta Rossa won at the 2010 European Design Awards. 

As for what else to expect during your stay, their Porta Rossa Bistrot is the on-site restaurant, providing Tuscan-influenced dishes with a hint of Sicilian flair. Their guest services are top-notch, with options like babysitting and express laundry service being provided. And when you want to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing, you can choose the perfect pillow for yourself from their dedicated “Pillow Menu.” 

Le Sirenuse

Positano, Amalfi Coast

Earning a spot on The World’s 50 Best Hotels for 2023, Le Sirenuse is worth all the accolades. The resort first opened in 1951 by a group of siblings and has since become one of the country’s prime places to stay. From now until October, guests can enjoy the summer months by embarking on their ​​Sant’Antonio sunset cruise. You can also bask in the sunshine at their pool while enjoying the property’s signature drink. 

They have two main restaurants. The first, La Sponda, is a nature-inspired spot led by executive chef Gennaro Russo, who takes a dedicated “listen to the land” approach when crafting the dishes. The second, Aldo’s, is a lounge designed for lighter bites and sharing wine with friends. Both offer peak views of the coast. 

Conclusion

Although these properties are just a few of our top picks, there is still so much to see and choose from. No matter where you decide to stay, we hope you Journey Beyond Aspen and have a fabulous travel-filled summer. 

For unforgettable experiences…

Journey Beyond Aspen to discover just a few of these once-in-a-lifetime Italian hotel experiences.

The post Summer Under the Sun: The Best Resorts in Italy appeared first on Luxury Travel and Resorts - Journey Beyond Aspen.

Are you seeking a bit of adventure and a luxuriously unique place to stay? You’re in the right place, as we’ve gathered the most incredible upscale hotel experiences from around the globe. From a Jersey Shore vacation to exotic destinations, there are so many wondrous places that should be on a travel lover’s bucket list. Here are a few of our picks of hotels not to miss.

Treehouse Lodge

Ucayali River, Peru

For those who aren’t afraid of heights, Peru’s Treehouse Lodge is worth checking out. As the only all-inclusive treehouse property in the Amazon Rainforest, there are only 12 private houses that range from 35 to 75 feet above the ground. You’ll be up close and personal with the jungle animals, as the hotel’s website notes you might see some monkeys and birds each morning.

Each day, they offer three meals, tapping into the local Peruvian cuisine from a world-class chef. As it’s served in their main lodge (or packaged if you’re heading out for an excursion), you also don’t have to worry about any rainforest creatures or bugs.

A Little Bit of Romance

Treehouse Lodge offers a romance package for couples, including for those celebrating honeymoons, weddings, anniversaries, or vow renewals. They treat guests to a bottle of wine, cake, chocolates, and the option to have a shaman perform any ceremony with professional photos.

With the peaceful nature of the property, there are plenty of opportunities for couples to practice yoga together — or even book a specific yoga retreat. What better place to get in touch with your inner thoughts than in the middle of nature?

Other Recommended Destinations

• Stay in Paradise: The Best Hotels in Costa Rica
• Family Fun Unleashed: Six Best Resorts for Families Seeking Adventure!
• Anse Chastanet
• C Lazy U Ranch
• The Wallace Hotel – NYC

Nobu Hotel

Atlantic City, NJ

As the Nobu Hotel is nestled inside the Caesars Casino in Atlantic City, it is a luxurious hidden gem and a one-of-a-kind travel experience. While checking in, guests check-in at a private area with a warm towel and a welcome drink. The hotel opened earlier this year and is on the uppermost floors of the property, providing breathtaking views of the ocean in spacious rooms.

The rest of the Caesars property feels identical to its Vegas counterpart but without the chaos or crowds. There are several cuisine options on-site, whether you’re looking to sample some sushi from the lush Nobu restaurant or have the famous Beef Wellington at Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen. Then, to unwind, the Qua spa is perfect for facials and taking a dip in the magnificent Roman Baths.

Making the Most of Your Trip

If you’re looking for something to do outside of gambling and the casino properties, the town offers a bustling dining scene. Between starting your morning with breakfast at Gilchrist, attending a tasting at the only legal local distillery, or ending the night with a life-changing chocolate martini and sweet treats from Bar 32, there’s plenty for visitors to taste throughout their stay.

Atlantic City Skyline

Finally, for those who might travel with children, Atlantic City has a lot of family-friendly activities. Across from the Hard Rock casino is the famous Steel Pier, which offers carnival games and rides for all ages — including their massive air-conditioned Ferris wheel. There’s also an indoor Island Waterpark, a massive arcade, and go-karting, all within the Showboat.

Apukka Resort

Lapland, Finland

Feel like taking a trip to the breathtaking Northern Lights? Look no further than Apukka Resort. Guests can stay in one of the premium glass igloos that provide a direct view of the night sky through the large paneled windows. To stay warm, the resort also has two main restaurants. Aitta is a rustic tribute to traditional Lappish cuisine, while Kota is a laid-back chance to dine by a fire pit.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

Apukka offers a few different holiday packages for travelers. A few key ones: The “It’s All About Aurora” option, which includes thermal clothing, daily breakfast, and a guided aurora hunting tour. The “Family Christmas” package gives children the chance to meet Santa Claus, go snowmobiling, and have a dinner buffet. And, finally, the “Explorers’ Lappish Week,” which provides thrillseekers with an immersive local experience in terms of activities.

To get into the spirit of winter, guests can go on a husky sled ride, see some reindeer, check out the lakeside sauna, icefish, and so much more. The resort is truly a wonderland of holiday treasures worth uncovering.

Naries Namakwa Retreat

Springbok, South Africa

Naries Namakwa Retreat deserved a spot on this list, purely for their mountain suites. A perfect romantic getaway, couples can enjoy breakfast and dinner in the Manor House Dining Room. And for those traveling with a larger group, the resort’s Gemsbok Lapa venue can host up to thirty people for a fun cocktail party.

Explore the Unknown

As part of your stay, Naries Namakwa partners with a few local companies for guests to go on excursions. One of these is the 4×4 Shipwreck Tour, where you will take a guided tour on the Namaqualand Diamond Coast, catching the Piratiny, Arosa, and Border wrecks and other archaeological sites. For those who are seeking a calmer day trip, there is the Namaqualand flower tour during the peak summer season — a tribute to the gorgeous nature present in South Africa.

Six Senses

Ibiza, Spain

In northern Ibiza, Six Senses is a luxury resort that provides 137 options for rooms to stay in, giving an option to every kind of traveler. Emphasizing wellness, they offer tailored experiences from yogic masters and a rejuvenating spa spanning 12,000 square feet. The calming environment is also heightened with sound throughout to encourage creativity, courtesy of L-Acoustics.

Farm-to-Table Culinary Options

While staying at Six Senses, their dining selections use a farm-to-table method, relying on their organic Can Tanca farm in a neighboring town. The Beach Caves is a vibrant restaurant serving up Latin American dishes, making it the perfect fit for those looking to live it up in Ibiza. During the day, the Pharmacy Bar is also worth experiencing for refreshing cocktails and fresh juice by the pool.

Conclusion

There are so many luxurious options around the globe and plenty of adventure to have when it comes to traveling.

For unforgettable experiences…

Journey Beyond Aspen to discover just a few of these once-in-a-lifetime hotel experiences.

The post Glamour and Adventure: 5 Incredible, Upscale Hotel Experiences That You Have to See to Believe appeared first on Luxury Travel and Resorts - Journey Beyond Aspen.