The resort report: what's new in the hotel world
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
A look at the latest hotel and resort news from fresh renovations to brand new properties and noteworthy packages.
Located minutes from the rim of Grand Canyon West, the all-new Grand Canyon Glamping Resort offers clients the opportunity to stay in unique accommodations, including covered wagons. The destination features on-site dining from a gourmet food truck as well as outdoor activities such as helicopter, horseback and ATV tours.
Situated approximately two hours from Las Vegas, the resort provides the only glamping experience and one of the only overnight accommodations options in the vicinity of Grand Canyon West. With its direct views of the Grand Canyon rim, the Glamping Resort combines the authenticity of an outdoor camping experience located next to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with all of the comforts of a luxury resort. Every tent, wagon and tipi comes outfitted with plush bedding, heating and air conditioning and WiFi. A full bathroom with a shower is also featured in the wagons.
Wagons are spaciously designed to accommodate up to six guests and feature enough room for a king-size bed plus a futon or two bunk beds. Tipis can accommodate up to six guests and also feature a king-size bed plus a futon or bunk bed for ultimate comfort.
In a city where old meets new, Six Senses Tel Aviv will combine five 110-year-old preservation buildings at the base of a modern 42-floor tower. Once complete, it will house the 140-key Six Senses hotel, and 55 stylish and comfortable residences.
The original five buildings date back to 1909 and are the best remaining heritage of the Ahuzat Bayit settlement, the first in the city. They will be joined together at the edge of Rothschild Boulevard to stretch across an entire city block between Rothschild, Herzel, and Lilienblum Streets.
The hotel will feature a state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities over two floors, a sky pool on the 17th floor housing a cocktail lounge with a panoramic views, and a chef’s restaurant, café, and bar. In 2003, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed Tel Aviv’s White City a World Cultural Heritage site as “an outstanding example of new town planning and architecture in the early 20th century”.
Slated to open in late 2025, the prime location of Six Senses Tel Aviv will immerse guests into the eclectic appeal of Tel Aviv’s city life, all from the comforts of their sumptuous residence or hotel suite. It will also serve as an entry point to explore many regional wonders, including Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and the brand’s other Israeli property, Six Senses Shaharut.
For clients seeking a wellness retreat, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection is welcoming Dr. Amanda Hanson, a tenured clinical psychologist – turned midlife muse, to its property with 50 spacious hacienda-style casitas, a coffee farm, equine stables, organic chef’s gardens and a well being centre.
The retreat will take place on site at the resort, set amidst the foothills of the Talamanca Mountains in Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, and offer private sessions with Dr. Hanson; self-care philosophy workshops, ancient ritual practices and more.
Hyatt has announced plans for the Grand Hyatt La Manga Club and Resort in Spain, a luxury leisure hotel that’s expected to open in mid-2023, following significant renovation work.
The 192-room resort property, which will be the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Spain, is situated on the Mediterranean coast in Murcia, Spain. As part of an extensive renovation, the hotel’s guestrooms, including a 1,679 square foot Royal Suite and six additional suites, will be redesigned to reflect the vibrant design and bold architecture that the Grand Hyatt brand is known for. An array of renewed culinary offerings will also be added, such as a new sushi bar and a high-end gastronomic restaurant, focused on highlighting local produce through international cuisines.
The Barnes
The historic San Francisco Union Square hotel, Villa Florence, is now The Barnes. The new name is Inspired by the historic bronzed figure of winged victory located at Union Square. The Barnes name traces back to Old English roots and means “young warrior” – a brave champion of independent spirit. As such, The Barnes carries worldly appeal and is a perfect companion for guests looking for a true, centralized San Francisco experience. Boasting a retro chic ambiance with an urban accent, The Barnes recently underwent room renovations to complement the hotel’s new name and vibe.
The Barnes, built inside a classic building at 225 Powell Street, is steps from the iconic San Francisco cable cars, nearby some of the city’s best shopping and surrounded by culinary excellence, The Barnes is a pet friendly hotel.