Correspondent

T. VIDAL

Spanish · wellness · spa · signature rituals · longevity

Wellness & spa editor. Trained in Ayurveda in Kerala and watsu in Switzerland. Tracks the most serious wellness practices in five-star houses.

Editorial standards

55 dispatches

A resort manager, Joris Quintelier, in a professional portrait setting.

News · Four Seasons

Four Seasons The Nam Hai Appoints Joris Quintelier as Resort Manager

Joris Quintelier steps into the Resort Manager role at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, marking a decade for the property under the Four Seasons brand. His extensive international background within Four Seasons positions him to drive guest experience and talent developmen

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 17, 2026

Exterior view of a grand historic building in Amsterdam, likely the Rosewood Amsterdam, with canal in foreground

Luxury Stays · Rosewood

Rosewood Claims 363-Year-Old Amsterdam Landmark

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts announced July 29, 2026, the transformation of Amsterdam's former Palace of Justice into the Rosewood Amsterdam. The historic property now features a subterranean spa, three distinct restaurants, and gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Piet

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 14, 2026

Aerial view of a wooden pier extending over turquoise waters, connecting to a lush green beach

Luxury Stays · Soneva

Soneva Redefines Maldivian Luxury

For discerning travelers venturing to the Maldives, the Soneva brand consistently tops recommendations. Its pioneering 'barefoot luxury' concept offers an unparalleled introduction to this island paradise.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 13, 2026

A serene, modern private cottage at The Ranch Malibu, surrounded by lush greenery, suggesting a tranquil wellness retreat.

Wellness & Spa

The Ranch Malibu: An Enduring Wellness Institution

Malibu's acclaimed wellness retreat, a favorite among celebrities, continues its reign. With daily hikes, bespoke treatments, and meticulous meal plans, it offers a rigorous yet restorative escape.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 10, 2026

Two spa workers pour liquid from bronze beakers onto a woman's back in a serene setting

Wellness & Spa · Canyon Ranch

Wellness Retreats Trade Mud Facials for Longevity Programs

Luxury hospitality's wellness sector is rapidly evolving, shifting from passive relaxation to data-driven health optimization. Guests now demand sleep tracking, diagnostic testing, and programs promising extended, healthier lives.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 9, 2026

Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech with crowds and vendors

News

Marrakech Hotel Sued for Negligence After Fatal Spa Fire

The widow of a British man who died in a luxury spa fire at the Jaal Ryad Resort Hotel in Marrakech is suing for over £500,000. The lawsuit alleges negligence in fire safety and hotel management.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 9, 2026

Exterior view of the Mayflower Inn & Spa, set amidst lush greenery

Wellness & Spa · Auberge Resorts Collection

DoveHill Acquires Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Collection

The acclaimed Connecticut resort, celebrated for its Forbes Four-Star Spa and 1 MICHELIN Key, has a new owner. Auberge Collection will continue to manage the property, ensuring its legacy of luxury endures.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 6, 2026

A white architectural structure on a beach overlooking the sea with clear blue water and sky

Wellness & Spa · Belmond

Romazzino's Blue Zone Retreat: Longevity Lessons in Sardinia

Belmond's Romazzino hotel on Sardinia's Costa Smeralda is pioneering a wellness retreat focused on Blue Zone principles. Guests explore the island's long-lived traditions, seeking balance and sustainable health practices.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 3, 2026

Miami Beach city and county leaders gathered at a construction site, likely for the Grand Hyatt Hotel, with a large building frame in the background.

News · Hyatt

Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Reaches Construction Milestone

Miami Beach's anticipated Grand Hyatt project celebrated a construction milestone, marking significant progress towards its completion. Local officials gathered to acknowledge the development's impact on the area's luxury hospitality landscape.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Aug 2, 2026

A white sandbar stretching into turquoise ocean with a clear blue sky

Luxury Stays · Six Senses

Six Senses Brings Overwater Luxury to Belize

Six Senses is debuting a collection of overwater residences and bungalows in Belize, marking the brand's first venture into Maldives-style accommodations in the Western Hemisphere. The development promises Caribbean Sea views and comprehensive wellness amenities.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jul 25, 2026

An aerial view of a sprawling private luxury villa with a large swimming pool overlooking a tranquil ocean at sunset.

News

Private Villas Redefine Luxury Travel Amidst Evolving Demands

Traditional grand hotels are ceding ground to an increasing preference for private villas, chalets, and exclusive retreats. This shift reflects a growing demand for discretion, bespoke service, and expansive personal space among affluent travelers.

T. VIDAL·3 min read

Jul 22, 2026

Exterior view of the historic Edinburgh Castle pub and hotel in Auckland

News

Neil Finn Acquires Edinburgh Castle, Envisions Wellness Retreat in Auckland

The historic Edinburgh Castle in Auckland, long a source of neighborhood consternation, has found a new proprietor in New Zealand musician Neil Finn. His intent is to transform the venerable establishment into a dedicated wellness retreat, signaling a serene future for the site.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jul 12, 2026

A family enjoying a luxurious resort pool, indicative of Four Seasons' upscale family offerings.

News · Four Seasons

Four Seasons Aims to Redefine Luxury Family Travel

Four Seasons is expanding its offerings for families, focusing on amenities and experiences that cater to all ages without compromising sophistication. The brand seeks to blend high-end hospitality with family-friendly practicality.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jul 2, 2026

Rendered aerial view of the Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin, featuring contemporary architecture nestled alongside a large body of water, surrounded by lush greenery.

Luxury Stays · Four Seasons

Four Seasons Expands Branded Residential Foothold with Lake Austin Project

Tyko Capital has committed $870 million to develop the Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin, marking a significant entry into Texas's luxury residential market. This project underscores the growing demand for branded luxury living outside traditional urban centers.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jul 1, 2026

Horst Schulze smiling while being inducted into the SHTM Gallery of Honour.

News · Capella Hotel Group

Hospitality Icon Horst Schulze Honored with Lifetime Achievement

The co-founder of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and founder of Capella Hotel Group, Horst Schulze, received the SHTM Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also inducted into the School of Hotel and Tourism Management Gallery of Honour at Hong Kong PolyU.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 30, 2026

A grand, multi-tiered building with traditional architectural elements set against a green, rolling hillside.

Luxury Stays

Mongolia's Ayan Zalaat: An Ultra-Luxury Debut Near Ulaanbaatar

The Ayan Zalaat has opened its doors near the Mongolian capital, aiming to redefine luxury in a traditionally rugged destination. With a sprawling spa and focus on cultural immersion, it signals a new era for upscale hospitality in the region.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 29, 2026

Exterior shot of a Mandarin Oriental hotel at dusk, lights illuminated

News · Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental Nears Full Privatization with Shareholder Approval

Jardine Matheson's $4.2 billion offer to acquire the remaining shares of Mandarin Oriental has cleared a major hurdle. Shareholders approved the go-private bid, moving the luxury hotel group closer to becoming a wholly owned entity.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 27, 2026

Exterior view of the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole with the Teton mountains in the background

Wellness & Spa · Four Seasons

Four Seasons Jackson Hole: Elevated Summer Wellness in the Tetons

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole delivers a new summer wellness program. The stunning Teton Range provides a raw backdrop for experiences focused on movement, tranquility, and nature.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 27, 2026

Luxurious Belmond train on a track with lush green mountains and a river in the background

News · Belmond

Belmond Blames Carlyle Unit for Deadly Machu Picchu Train Crash

LVMH's luxury hospitality arm, Belmond, implicates Carlyle Group's Inca Rail in a fatal accident near Machu Picchu. The incident, occurring on a single-track railway, raises questions about operational protocols and accountability.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 22, 2026

Aerial view of a luxury resort with avant-garde, flower-shaped shades, blending into a desert landscape under a clear sky.

Signature Rituals · Six Senses

Six Senses Southern Dunes: Intuitive Serenity in the Red Sea Global

Opened June 12, 2026, the Six Senses Southern Dunes resort, a Red Sea Global property, aims to deliver a bespoke sense of calm through intuitive service. Its "sixth sense" philosophy translates into staff anticipating guest needs for optimal comfort and well-being.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 17, 2026

An aerial view of a luxurious Soneva resort in the Maldives, showing overwater villas and pristine turquoise waters.

News · Soneva

Soneva Pivots To 'Bare Luxury' With New Leadership

After decades as a founder-led endeavor, Soneva ushers in private equity ownership with a strategic rebrand and its first external CEO. The move signals a shift towards a more curated guest experience, moving past its "Barefoot Luxury" roots.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 16, 2026

An aerial view of a luxurious overwater villa at a Soneva resort in the Maldives, surrounded by turquoise water.

Luxury Stays · Soneva

Soneva Embraces 'Bare Luxury' in Its Latest Evolution of High-End Travel

On June 8, 2026, Soneva, the Maldivian luxury resort group behind properties like Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, announced a new brand philosophy called "Bare Luxury." This initiative signals a shift in the definition of luxury, moving away from opulence and towards a more essenti

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 13, 2026

Roland Fasel, president of Capella Hotel Group, in a professional portrait

News · Capella Hotel Group

Capella Appoints Seasoned Maybourne, Aman Veteran to Helm Ambitious Expansion

Roland Fasel joins Capella Hotel Group as President, tasked with doubling the brand's global footprint during its most active development period yet. His extensive experience at Maybourne Group and Aman Resorts positions him to steer Capella's luxury portfolio through significant

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 11, 2026

Luxurious hotel exterior or interior representing Small Luxury Hotels of the World

News · Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Mews Extends Property Management System Reach Across SLH Portfolio

Mews will expand its preferred PMS partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) globally, now including the Americas and APAC regions. This move follows European success, with early adopters reporting significant revenue gains.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 9, 2026

A stylish, contemporary hotel lobby with high ceilings and luxurious furnishings, hinting at Capella's design aesthetic.

News · Capella Hotels

Capella Targets Aggressive Global Expansion by 2030

Capella Hotels has unveiled ambitious plans to double its portfolio within the next decade. The expansion will strategically focus on key gateway cities, beginning with Florence and Riyadh.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 8, 2026

A serene infinity pool overlooking a bay with mountains, characteristic of Six Senses Zighy Bay

Wellness & Spa · Six Senses

Six Senses Zighy Bay Offers Retreats for Global Wellness Day

For Global Wellness Day and International Yoga Day, Six Senses Zighy Bay launched immersive three-night wellness programs. These aim to reconnect guests with nature through personalized yoga, meditation, and traditional Hammam therapies.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 6, 2026

Mandarin Oriental hotel exterior with an American Express card overlay

Luxury Stays · Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental: $100 Amex Credit on $500 Spend

American Express cardholders can now avail themselves of a $100 statement credit after spending $500 or more at participating Mandarin Oriental properties. This limited-time offer applies to select hotels in the U.S. and abroad.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

Jun 3, 2026

Exterior view of The Barai spa in Bangkok with a pool and architectural elements

Wellness & Spa · Hyatt

The Barai Spa Expands to Full Hotel in Hua Hin

Thailand's acclaimed wellness retreat, The Barai, is transforming into a comprehensive luxury hotel. Located in Hua Hin, the expanded property aims to offer an immersive experience beyond traditional hotel stays.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 25, 2026

A modern, high-rise luxury hotel in Jakarta, reflecting the city's skyline at dusk.

Luxury Stays · The Langham

Indonesia's Luxury Hotel Sector Outpaces Regional Recovery

Indonesia's luxury hotel market has fully recovered to pre-pandemic occupancy levels, signaling robust demand for high-end travel. This resurgence positions the country as a competitive player in global luxury tourism.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 21, 2026

Exterior shot of The Whiteley, where Six Senses London is housed, showing its grand architectural facade

Wellness & Spa · Six Senses

Six Senses London Ignites Urban Wellness Arms Race

The brand's first UK outpost stakes London's claim as a premier urban wellness destination, challenging the notion that true rejuvenation requires a remote island escape. This move signals a significant escalation in the luxury hospitality sector's focus on holistic well-being.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 20, 2026

A stylized image featuring the Rosewood Hotel Group logo alongside text announcing a 16-week global gender-neutral parental leave standard.

News · Rosewood

Rosewood Mandates 16-Week Parental Leave, Upping Industry Standard

Rosewood Hotel Group has enacted a new global gender-neutral parental leave policy, offering 16 weeks of fully paid leave. This move positions the luxury brand at the forefront of equitable workplace practices within the hospitality sector.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 19, 2026

A modern, sleek magazine cover featuring the title 'HM26-DigitalEdition-AprilMay-Cover.png'

News · Four Seasons

Four Seasons Elevates Robert Fritz to Executive Chairman

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced its former President, Robert Fritz, will now serve as Executive Chairman. This move coincides with founder Isadore Sharp transitioning to Chairman Emeritus, signaling a strategic shift in executive leadership.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 19, 2026

Exterior facade of a modern luxury hotel, likely a Cheval Blanc property, featuring contemporary architecture and elegant design.

Luxury Stays · Cheval Blanc

Cheval Blanc: LVMH's Masterclass in Ultra-Luxury Hospitality

LVMH's foray into hotels with Cheval Blanc has quickly established a new benchmark for ultra-luxury. We examine how this exclusive brand balances impeccable style with substantive guest experiences across its highly curated portfolio.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 11, 2026

A woman practices yoga on a mat overlooking a serene outdoor pool and a lush landscape, suggesting a luxury resort setting.

Signature Rituals · Aman

Aman Prioritizes Longevity and Resilience in 2026 Global Wellness Program

Aman announces its 2026 global wellness initiatives, deepening its commitment to holistic well-being with programs spanning ancient traditions, modern science, and nature-led therapies. Notable collaborations include tennis icons Maria Sharapova and Novak Djokovic, focusing on me

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 10, 2026

Exterior shot of a modern luxury hotel with traditional Japanese architectural elements, possibly Capella Kyoto, nestled in a historic district.

Onsen

Japan's 2026 Hotel Landscape: Capella Kyoto, Nara Prison, and Beyond

Anticipated openings like Capella Kyoto and the HOSHINOYA Nara Prison Hotel are poised to redefine luxury accommodation. Japan's 2026 hospitality scene blends ancient traditions with avant-garde design, offering travelers unparalleled experiences.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026

The Aman Hotel Group Unveils the Inaugural Itineraries for its Yacht, Amangati - Luxury Tribune

Luxury Stays · Aman

Aman at Sea Unveils Initial Mediterranean Voyages for Amangati Yacht

The Aman Group announces the inaugural itineraries for its forthcoming yacht, Amangati, charting a course for deep-sea luxury in 2027. This move positions the brand in the burgeoning ultra-exclusive yachting sector, building upon its established presence in bespoke hospitality.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026

Rosewood Hotel Group Introduces Inaugural Cohort of Rise to the Table - Hospitality Net

Gastronomy · Rosewood

Rosewood Unveils 'Rise to the Table' to Cultivate Female F&B Leadership

Rosewood Hotel Group has launched the inaugural cohort of its year-long 'Rise to the Table' program, designed to elevate female talent within the global food and beverage sector. The initiative pairs 11 professionals with senior leadership, commencing with a week-long residency i

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026

TUI Hotels & Resorts Marks Milestone with Bhutan’s First TUI Blue Hotel Opening in Paro Taktsang – A New Era of Luxury and Sustainable Tourism in the Himalaya - Travel And Tour World

Destinations

TUI Blue Arrives in Bhutan, Marking a New Chapter for Luxury in Paro

TUI Hotels & Resorts is poised to unfurl its maiden flag in Bhutan with the TUI Blue Paro Taktsang. This addition signals a refined approach to Himalayan hospitality, blending contemporary comfort with considered cultural immersion.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026

Mandarin Oriental, Lago Di Como Reopens With a Redesigned Restaurant, Fresh Spa Treatments and New Accommodation Package - Hospitality Net

Destinations · Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como: A Reimagined L'ARIA and Curated Wellness

The Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como reopens for the season, featuring a redesigned L'ARIA restaurant, enhanced wellness offerings, and a new accommodation package. The refinement extends to architectural updates and expanded culinary experiences.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026

Amanyara Legends Program Offers Lessons With Novak Djokovic and More

Wellness & Spa

Aman's Amanyara Introduces 'Legends Program' for Elite Athletic Instruction

Amanyara, the Aman retreat in Turks and Caicos, has launched an exclusive 'Legends Program,' offering guests private coaching sessions with celebrated athletes. The initiative provides unparalleled access to world-class instruction across various sports disciplines.

T. VIDAL·2 min read

May 9, 2026