5 luxury hotels you need to try for your next trip in Panama, New York and more
From a private island in Panama, to the streets of the Big Apple. At L'Officiel we show you everything you need to know about the world of luxury travel.
Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama
Nayara Bocas del Toro -a private island resort in Panama- has been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in Central America from the opening of its spectacular overwater villas to the launch of the world's first floating beach that was carried out in 2022.
Now, the luxury hotel innovates again with its new and luxurious tree houses. Designed by Ibuku - a Bali-based architecture firm known for building sustainable bamboo structures throughout Indonesia - the two 15m tall IBUKU Island Treehouses were built using wood reclaimed from the Panama Canal. Guests ascend a spiral staircase, to be faced with sweeping views of the property from an open-air living room with high ceilings. The interior design follows the general aesthetic of the place, which combines Balinese elements with a Panamanian touch.
The bedroom has a luxurious king-size bed and is spectacularly decorated with custom-made wooden furniture and decorations that combine earthy colours and a contrast of textures. There are also outdoor hand-hammered copper Javanese bathtubs and showers, where guests can relax and enjoy Panamanian nature.
Since the entire complex is off-grid, the eco-conscious homes draw all their energy from the sun while purified rainwater is used for drinking. The tree houses are equipped with the same ecological technologies as the rest of the complex: they obtain all their energy from solar energy and the water they use is from purified rain that can be drunk.
The Ritz-Carlton South Beach & Bal Harbour, Miami
Krigler is an exclusive luxury fragrance brand inspired by rich and diverse global sights, sounds and scents. Established in 1904 by Albert Krigler, the home became beloved among American socialites such as Grace Kelly, who wore Chateau Krigler 12 the night she won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1955.
The brand stands out for providing equal parts luxury and exclusivity, and Krigler boutiques are only located in the best hotels in the world. The luxury perfumery has selected The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbor as the new destinations to open two boutiques, uniting two iconic brands for a true luxury experience in Miami.
To celebrate this union between the exclusive perfumery and the hotels, the two properties launched a bridal package focused on a totally personalized fragrance, which is not available for purchase by the general public.
Couples can capture olfactory memories of their wedding day by pairing the fragrant notes of their celebration's bouquets, décor and setting with Krigler's historic perfume.
www.ritzcarlton.com | @ritzcarltonsouthbeach & @ritzcarltonbalharbour
Regent Seven Seas luxury cruise, Brazil
It's summer in South America and Brazil attracts travellers from all over the world. Regent Seven Seas, the luxury cruise line known for its highly personalized service and unlimited complimentary shore excursions in all ports, will take just 698 guests aboard Seven Seas Voyager on a 21-day voyage to discover vibrant destinations in all of Brazil.
Beginning in Rio de Janeiro, passing through Maceió, Fortaleza and sailing down the Amazon River, guests will be introduced to Brazil's vibrant regional cultures and extraordinary nature. All Seven Seas Voyager suites feature a private balcony, as well as marble accents in the bathroom and spacious walk-in closets.
On Regent's cruises, you don't have to worry about a thing: every luxury is included in your fare, including gourmet cuisine at a variety of restaurants, premium wines and spirits, entertainment, free laundry, gratuities, and land transfers. Just relax and enjoy this unique 21-day experience until you reach the sunny shores of Miami.
Virgin Hotels, New York
Virgin Hotels, owned by Sir Richard Branson, the British billionaire and one of the world's biggest businessmen, brings the brand to the Big Apple with the highly anticipated opening of Virgin Hotels New York City.
Occupying an entire block in the NoMad neighbourhood - between 29th Street and 30th Street - Virgin Hotels New York is the seventh hotel in the brand's fast-growing global portfolio. Brooklyn-based design firm MARKZEFF and community-minded architecture firm Stantec spearheaded the hotel's design, resulting in a playful and authentic design that reflects New York City. The hotel has 460 rooms on 39 floors.
All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the cityscape and Virgin Hotels signature two-space design: The Dressing Room, featuring a full vanity, spacious closet and oversized shower, and The Lounge featuring the queen bed patented ergonomic lounge, a red mini fridge, a smart TV, a yoga mat and a coffee work table.
The hotel offers multiple dining options, including Everdene, a sprawling 4,000 square-foot restaurant on the third floor, and the Pool Club on the fourth floor, featuring indoor and outdoor space and, of course, a heated pool.
Grand Velas Los Cabos, Mexico
Forbes Travel Guide is one of the most anticipated rankings of the year in luxury travel, and has been recognized as a global authority on travel since its launch in 1958.
Inspectors anonymously visit each property to assess up to 900 criteria for eligibility for the Forbes Travel Guide awards, paying special attention to the service and experiences they offer to guests. This year, Grand Velas Los Cabos , an exclusive Preferred Hotels & Resorts member, was included in the 5-Star list, making it the first and only All-Inclusive resort in Mexico to receive this award.
Located on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico, Grand Velas Los Cabos offers the highest level of amenities and facilities with the All-Inclusive concept, 307 suites overlooking the Sea of Cortez, five gourmet restaurants with a wide range of mixology, the award-winning SE Spa with 16 Spa Suites for treatments and three swimming pools.
