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ENJOY A LAST-MINUTE ESCAPE TO ONE OF EUROPE’S MOST EXCLUSIVE VILLAS THIS OCTOBER

October 11thGLOBAL

FRENCH PROPERTIES

RETREAT TO A FARMHOUSE COTTAGE SURROUNDED BY NATURE
AT DOMAINE DES ETANGS, MASSIGNAC, SW FRANCE

Domaine des Etangs offers a truly unique experience in the heart of one of the most beautiful areas of rural France. Set over 1,000 hectares of protected nature-filled countryside comprising forest, grassland and lakes. On the property grounds lie six farmhouse cottages ranging from one to five bedrooms, surrounded by gardens, fields, forests and lakes – perfect for those looking for a truly secluded escape and to experience the rural surroundings and fresh air, where the only other being they might see are the local Limousin cows. Some cottages are complete with a secret private wine cellar in the basement, filled with the owner’s private collection of French wines, and others with large copper bath tubs to relax in. Guests of the cottages can enjoy delicious homely dinners by the chef, cooked over the cottages open fireplace, or for those who prefer to cook themselves, the staff at the Domaine can organise guests shopping lists from their kitchen gardens and local suppliers. If they are able to tear themselves away from the comfort of their cottage, guests can explore the sprawling estate with their own pair of welly boots or bicycle which are included in the cottage, from the walking trails to the farm, taking a row boat out onto the lake and exploring the nearby forests.
HOW: Domaine des Etangs is located a 40-minute drive from Limoges and a 2.5h drive from Bordeaux. 1-Bedroom Farmhouse Cottages (Licorne) start from €550 per night (currently approx. £458) (please note a minimum stay of three-nights in July and August is required). www.domainedesetangs.com.

A GLAMOROUS HISTORIC VILLA JOINS AN ICONIC HOTEL:
HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC’S EXCLUSIVE FIVE-BEDROOM VILLA SAINTE-ANNE

Opposite the grand gates of French Riviera icon, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, sits a historic villa: Villa Sainte-Anne. The history of the villa is intrinsically intertwined with that of Hotel du Cap; built in the early 20^th century as a private home, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc purchased the property in 2019 and spent nearly two years refurbishing the property and gardens. Villa Sainte-Anne comprises five en-suite bedrooms each complete with its own dressing room; a spa with sauna, steam, Hammam, and gym; and chic living and dining areas spread over 3,700ft². As with the main hotel, Oetker Collection family member, Mrs Bergit Gräfin Douglas – founder of MM-Design Frankfurt – was responsible for the elegant interiors throughout the home. Behind the villa, 22,600ft² of cascading gardens conceal a private pool and a terrace which offers spectacular views across the bay of Juan-les-Pins. The fully staffed villa comes with a dedicated butler, and a chauffeur and car are also offered for up to five hours a day. Residents benefit from access to all of Hotel du Cap’s facilities, including the emblematic saltwater rock pool and red clay tennis courts. This is in addition to exclusive usage of a private seaside cabana, two complimentary daily one-hour spa treatments per stay, and an excursion for four people aboard the Aquariva Super ‘Eden-Roc’ during a stay.
HOW: Nightly rates start from €13,800 in low season (currently approx. £11,612) and go up to €25,000 (currently approx. £21,035) in high season. Rates include breakfast, non-alcoholic drinks, night security, laundry, tax, service, full access to Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc’s hotel facilities, round-trip airport transfers, and VIP meet & greet at Nice Airport. oetkercollection.hotel-du-cap-eden-roc/villa-sainte-anne

NEW OPENING: THE ULTIMATE YEAR-ROUND WELLNESS DESTINATION, LILY OF THE VALLEY, UNVEILS THE NEW VILLA W

A year-round wellness destination for those looking to lose weight and get fit in stylish surroundings, Lily of the Valley, specializing in expertly curated programmes for long-lasting weight loss, becomes one of the most sought-after spots in the French Riviera with the unveiling of its new exclusive-use villa, VillaW. Tucked away within its own 1,559m² private grounds surrounded by lush greenery and a 17-metre pool, Villa W is the perfect discreet stay for guests to unwind and soak up the peaceful side of Saint Tropez. With three bedrooms accommodating six people across two stories, guests can enjoy the 180° uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean coastline. Reminiscent to the works of industrial designer, Jean Prouvé and the ‘mid-century modern’ style of Ray and Charles Eames, Philippe Starck has created a bold yet minimal statement of architecture. Perched on the hilltops within a lush and natural environment, Starck’s clever and contrasting use of concrete, glass, steel and wood are matched with arbours made from chestnut wood and a long, south-facing glass façade, whilst the pared-down structure and proportions of the building give an overall feeling of balance and lightness.
HOW: Prices for Villa W are on application. For more information, please visit www.lilyofthevalley.com/fr/hotel/villa-w

THE DESIGN-MINDED FAMILY SIBUET OPEN THE DOORS TO THEIR BRAND-NEW, EXCLUSIVE-USE FARMHOUSE – LES MAS VERMENTINO

To celebrate 20 years since purchasing their Provence estate, the ultra-chic Sibuet family has thrown open the doors to a centuries-old farmhouse, Le Mas Vermentino, to buyout guests for the very first time. Set within the magical cedar forest of the family’s Domaine de Marie in Ménerbes, surrounded by vines, olive trees, and truffle oaks, the rustic and elegant six-bedroom property is now available for up to 12 to hire as an exclusive use hideaway, with breathtakingly beautiful views of both the Luberon Regional National Park and the historic Abbey of Saint-Hilaire. The farmhouse features two kitchens – one fully equipped inside, and another outside, complete with a barbecue – in addition to a wine cellar and dining room ideal for sharing meals with friends and family. Chefs can also be requested to organise meals and picnic baskets upon request. Nearby, guests can truly immerse themselves in all that La Bastide de Marie has to offer with access to its two swimming pools, the renowned Pure Altitude Spa, and guided tours of the Domaine de Marie vineyard and wine cellar.
HOW: Rates at Le Mas start from €7,700 (currently approx. £6,422) for a seven-night stay including housekeeping services, breakfast, afternoon tea, concierge services, access to the Pure Altitude Spa, and a guided visit to the wine cellar at the Domaine de Marie. labastidedemarie.com/villa/le-mas

CROATIAN PROPERTIES

A SPECTACULAR 15^TH CENTURY MONASTERY – LOPUD 1483 – METICULOUSLY RESTORED OVER THE LAST TWENTY YEARS ON THE CROATIAN ISLAND OF LOPUD

LOPUD 1483 welcomes guests to exclusively hire the unique property for a holiday like no other. The medieval 15^th Century monastery, lovingly restored over the last twenty years by Creative Director Francesca Thyssen-Bornemisza, was once home to Franciscan monks and offers the perfect balance of contemporary comforts whilst preserving the authenticity of its sacred past. Situated on the magnificent island of Lopud, located just seven miles from Dubrovnik, Croatia, this undiscovered island sanctuary has been designed as a place where history, art and botanical exploration ignite the senses. The 13 original monk cells of LOPUD1483 have been transformed into five exquisite suites, with views of the gleaming blue sea or sacred garden beneath. Each room features a unique combination of renaissance furniture, from the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection as well as contemporary pieces by Italian designer Paola Lenti and a bespoke selection of one of the world’s greatest private art collections, collected by four generations of the Thyssen-Bornemisza family. Croatian sunsets create a dreamy backdrop while indulging in cocktails and canapés on the Sunset Terrance, located at the top of the fortress, which offers exceptional views of Lopud and The Elaphiti Islands.
HOW: LOPUD 1483 is available for exclusive hire during April – October. The rate for all five suites, sleeping 10 guests, is €10,000 per night on a half board basis. For more information, please contact [email protected]

ITALIAN PROPERTIES

RETREAT LAKESIDE AT ‘CASA AL LAGO’ – INTIMATE GARDEN SUITES AVAILABLE FOR EXCLUSIVE USE SET WITHIN THE EXQUISITE HISTORICAL ESTATE OF BRAND NEW PASSALACQUA, LAKE COMO

This summer, Passalacqua – one of Lake Como’s most spectacular private homes opened it’s doors as a 24-suite retreat after three years of restoration. Standing above the village of Moltrasio, with 7 acres of terraced gardens, extending down to the lake’s shore, this 18th Century Villa has been masterfully restored by renowned Italian hoteliers, the De Santis family as an homage to Italy’s finest craftsmanship. Ideal for exclusive use, families and groups can opt for a stay in the intimate Casa Al Lago – located directly on the lake’s shores. The spacious offering comprises four suites with an open plan layout including a beautiful dining room, fireplace and their own private garden with sweeping views across Lake Como’s blue waters. The De Santis family have worked tirelessly with local artisans and small, generations-old Italian companies, drawing on their personal relationships to ensure that a sense of place, heritage and high quality craftsmanship resonates throughout the property. The Casa al Lago’s distinctive character and charm is reflected through the luscious garden inspired interiors, matching hand-painted silk walls and bronze light fittings, evocative antiques and gorgeous vintage steamer trunks.
HOW: Rates start from €1,500 (currently approx. £1,267) per night based on two people sharing on a B&B basis and excluding taxes. By air – 45 minutes drive from Milan Malpensa International airport. By train – 36 minutes from Milan Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi station to Como san Giovanni Station Lake Como. By boat – 15 minute boat ride from Moltrasio to Como.

PORTUGESE AND SPANISH PROPERTIES

CHECK INTO SIX SENSES DOURO VALLEY AND ENJOY A STAY IN A VILLA WITH A VINEYARD VIEW

Six Senses’ first European resort, Six Senses Douro Valley, is located in the beautiful Portuguese UNESCO World Heritage area of the Douro Valley. Originally built as an extravagant family home in the eighteenth century, the resort is perched at the foot of the valley, offering spectacular views of the Douro River and surrounding vineyards. Those looking to travel with a couple of friends or as a small family should check into the two-bedroom villa which features locally inspired architecture and furnishings, enhanced with modern comforts and amenities. Each has a fully appointed kitchen, separate dining and living areas, fireplace, and wine fridge. Outside, there is a separate entrance, a heated pool with a counter-current swimming machine, a small lawn area with fragrant shrubs, a private sundeck with day beds, and a gazebo. When it comes to R&R, the expansive Six Senses Spa is a true highlight of the resort where guests can enjoy Six Senses specialty treatments and multi-day programmes together with locally-inspired therapies. Wine lovers should pop into The Wine Library – located at the heart of the resort to enjoy light bites of tapas, cheese and local meats paired with the best Douro wine by the glass.
HOW: Rates at Six Senses Douro Valley start from £2,501 per night based on a family of four sharing the Two-Bedroom Pool Villa. www.sixsenses.com

THE ULTRA-CHIC GREEN 10 VILLAS AT FINCA CORTESIN, ANDALUSIA ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED & RELAXED BOLTHOLES IN SOUTHERN SPAIN

Located in one of the most sought-after enclaves of the Andalusian coast, the independently owned Finca Cortesin is one of the finest luxury resorts in Europe. Located at the heart of Finca Cortesin is a collection of 16 five-bedroom Green 10 Villas showcasing contemporary design and unrivalled service, combined with superb food, use of the hotel’s acclaimed spa, as well as access to the world-class championship golf course. No two villas are the same, and each property is thoughtfully positioned on the mountainside to offer unsurpassed views of the Sierra Bermeja mountain range, the golf course, and the Mediterranean Sea. Modern, bright Mediterranean-style interiors contrast harmoniously with sleek white walls and clean exterior lines, and the villas are fully equipped with top-of-the-range kitchen gadgets and high-spec sound systems, as well as ample staff accommodation and parking for two cars. Guests can relax by their private pool on expansive terraces and enjoy both indoor and outdoor dining areas, all while benefitting from full access to Finca Cortesin’s resort amenities and services.
HOW: Nightly rates in the 5-bedroom Green 10 villas start from €4,106 (currently approx. £3,456). A five-night minimum stay applies during high season (June-August, and public and school holidays), and a two-night minimum stay year-round. Fincacortesin.com

GREEK PROPERTIES

RECONNECT WITH NATURE AND CREATE LIFELONG MEMORIES AT THE FARMHOUSE AT THE ROOSTER ON THE SOULFUL, UNSPOILT GREEK ISLAND OF ANTIPAROS

Located on the low-key, under-the-radar Greek island of Antiparos, The Rooster embraces ‘slow living’ through sustainability, organic food and wellness – making it the ideal, underrated, location in which to unwind and recalibrate. Cloistered between the sandy, unspoilt beaches of the Aegean coastline and the dramatic landscape of the Cyclades amidst open fields and the mystical caves of Antiparos, The Rooster exists in complete harmony with nature. The highly individual property is all about space and privacy: 17 houses each offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea, a secluded plunge pool, and private gardens. The three-bedroom Farmhouse is the perfect remote escape for multigenerational families or friends wishing to fully switch off and re-connect with nature. The rustic residence is located 1.5km from the main hotel and is surrounded by the ‘bostani’, The Rooster’s own vegetable garden, which grows seasonal and organic ingredients for The Restaurant. The Farmhouse has been designed with The Rooster’s unpretentious aesthetic luxury in mind paired with excellent service, to create a truly holistic mindfulness escape.
HOW: Nightly rates at The Farmhouse at The Rooster start from €1,600 (currently approx. £1,358). theroosterantiparos.com

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Inside Casa Bonavita, Malta’s Stunning New Design Retreat

May 18^th

Inside Casa Bonavita, Malta’s Stunning New Design Retreat

Following a meticulous seven-year restoration, Christopher and Suzanne Sharp transform a historic Attard estate into an intimate, character-rich retreat.

Attard, Malta

After a meticulous seven-year restoration, Casa Bonavita has opened its doors in the historic village of Attard, introducing a deeply personal new style of hospitality to Malta. Conceived as a house first and hotel second, the 17-bedroom retreat is the first hospitality venture from Christopher and Suzanne Sharp, the celebrated design duo behind The Rug Company. Shaped by Suzanne’s Maltese upbringing and the couple’s long-standing love for the island, the estate eschews polished Mediterranean luxury in favor of an authentic celebration of Malta’s eccentricities, faded grandeur, and rich cultural heritage.

Throughout the property, Suzanne Sharp Studio has masterfully revived the building’s original grandeur while preserving the unmistakable warmth of a private home. Soaring ceilings and noble architectural proportions are layered with vintage family heirlooms, frescoed walls, and bespoke artistic commissions. Notable collaborations include local pottery house Villa Bologna and a hand-painted 17th-century Valletta wallpaper by de Gournay in the intimate cocktail bar. Mirroring this thoughtful craftsmanship, each of the 17 residential-style guest rooms carries its own distinct personality shaped by unique light, color, and texture, with many opening directly onto private terraces, gardens, or the pool.

At the heart of the estate lies a semi-wild garden sanctuary, a fifteen-year passion project by Christopher Sharp filled with citrus trees, palms, jasmine, and rosemary. This lush oasis sets a slower rhythm of living that extends directly to the dining experience, led by Executive Chef Dex Oseman of London’s famed The River Café. The restaurant celebrates ingredient-led Mediterranean cooking rooted in seasonality, with candlelit dinners spilling into the courtyard beneath the palms. Meanwhile, the estate’s original house kitchen remains a nostalgic focal point, bustling with the creation of traditional Maltese pastries, fresh pasta, and oranges picked straight from the trees.

Perfectly positioned between the baroque splendor of Valletta and the ancient walled city of Mdina, Casa Bonavita serves as an ideal launchpad for exploring Malta through a more nuanced, insider lens. The hotel will soon expand its offerings to include a curated wellness program alongside its existing pools, hammam, sauna, and gym. Also on the horizon is the unveiling of The Folly Suite—the hotel’s crown jewel—which offers a secluded, villa-style residence complete with its own rooftop terrace and private swimming pool. Ultimately, Casa Bonavita is designed as a living love letter to Malta, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the island’s quieter beauty and enduring sense of home.

Sardinia Uncovered: The Thinking Traveller Launches into Italy’s Most Desired Island

May 7^th

Sardinia Uncovered: The Thinking Traveller Launches into Italy’s Most Desired Island

The Mediterranean’s leading villa specialist adds Sardinia to its collection, blending architectural heritage with soulful coastal living.

Sardinia

The Thinking Traveller has officially expanded its Italian portfolio to include the ruggedly beautiful island of Sardinia, launching a curated collection of exclusive-use properties for the 2026 season. Grounded in the brand’s philosophy of ‘understanding, not consuming’ a destination, this new offering focuses on a thoughtful selection of villas that reflect the island’s unique sense of place. From the iconic, organic architecture of the Costa Smeralda in the north to the quiet, luminous beaches and historic depth of the south near Cagliari, the collection provides a sophisticated gateway to the Mediterranean’s second-largest island.

The inaugural portfolio features architectural gems that honor Sardinia’s heritage, such as I Corbezzoli, a villa designed by the legendary Savin Couëlle that epitomizes the low-rise, natural aesthetic of the 1960s. In the North-East, Salinedda Six offers modern luxury with an infinity pool overlooking Capo Coda Cavallo, while the villas Maria and Lia provide a secluded retreat amidst the mature gardens of Santa Margherita di Pula in the south. These properties are managed through direct, long-term relationships with owners, ensuring the rigorous quality standards and exclusivity that have become the hallmark of the brand over the last two decades.

Beyond the physical beauty of the villas, guests are supported by a dedicated team of Local Specialists who offer an immersive, highly personalized experience rooted in authentic Sardinian culture. Whether navigating the island’s ancient Nuragic ruins, discovering hidden coves, or exploring a world-class food scene, the service is designed to uncover the island’s quiet confidence and wild interior. With improved accessibility through new direct flight routes to Olbia and Cagliari, The Thinking Traveller’s entry into Sardinia invites discerning travelers to explore one of Italy’s most storied landscapes with unprecedented intimacy and insight.

EXPLORA I: YOUR EXCLUSIVE VANTAGE POINT FOR THE MONACO GRAND PRIX

April 30^th

EXPLORA I: YOUR EXCLUSIVE VANTAGE POINT FOR THE MONACO GRAND PRIX

Experience the pinnacle of motorsport from the refined sanctuary of Port Hercules.

Monaco

From 3 to 8 June 2026, the legendary Port Hercules becomes more than just a harbor; it transforms into the epicenter of global motorsport. EXPLORA I assumes an exclusive position at the heart of the action, offering guests an unparalleled vantage point for the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco 2026. This is where the world of high-performance racing meets the sophisticated rhythm of the sea, allowing you to witness the adrenaline of the pit lane and the arrival of the world’s elite drivers from a position of absolute luxury.

The experience onboard is designed to balance the high-octane energy of the circuit with moments of profound restoration. Between the roar of Formula 1 practice sessions and the intense qualifying rounds of Formula 2 and Formula 3, the ship offers a sanctuary of refined calm. You might find stillness during a wellness ritual at Ocean Wellness – The Spa, or enjoy a quiet swim as the harbor reflects the golden Mediterranean sun. Every detail, from curated dining to elegant cocktails, is crafted to set the perfect mood for the spectacle unfolding just steps away.

To further immerse yourself in the event, you have the opportunity to enhance your journey with premium access options. Choose between the prestigious F1 Paddock Club™ hospitality or three-day premium covered grandstand seating, both of which provide a deeper connection to the technical precision and drama of the race. Whether you are in the heart of the Paddock or watching from the ship’s rail, the spirit of the Riviera is ever-present.

As the sun sets over the Monaco coastline, the celebration continues within the spacious sanctuary of your suite. These private retreats, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and oceanfront terraces, provide the perfect backdrop for golden hour reflections. Evenings onboard come alive with live music, refined tastings, and celebratory gatherings that honor the unique energy of race weekend. It is a fitting finale to a reimagined journey where the legendary thrill of Formula 1 meets the timeless elegance of Explora Journeys.

The Newt x Claridges

April 23^rd

The Newt x Claridges

CLARIDGE’S X THE NEWT IN SOMERSET

Where rural riches meet Art Deco elegance in Mayfair this springImage

Somerset

This May, Claridge’s will partner with The Newt in Somerset to bring a two-week collaboration to Mayfair, marking the estate’s return to London following its sponsorship of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Running from 18 to 31 May 2026, the initiative will combine large-scale installation, seasonal menus and a dedicated stay experience, introducing the character and produce of Somerset to the capital.

At the centre of the collaboration is A Farm in Mayfair, a sculptural installation in Claridge’s Art Deco lobby. Rising six metres high, the woven willow structure has been created by British artisans using traditional techniques, under the direction of The Newt’s team. The piece features a series of animals, including water buffalo, British White cattle, a stag, a ram, ewes and chickens, arranged in an upward composition that reflects the rhythm of rural life. The installation culminates in a single egg, representing origin and renewal. Additional willow elements will frame The Foyer restaurant and extend to the hotel’s exterior.

Throughout the partnership, guests will encounter displays of apples across the hotel, with visitors invited to take fruit as they pass through the space. The selection includes green Granny Smith apples, accented with gold tones that reference the shared attention to detail across both properties.

Menus in The Foyer and Reading Room will highlight ingredients sourced from The Newt’s estate, including heritage tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella produced at the estate’s creamery, and British White beef and lamb. Seasonal desserts will feature rhubarb, strawberry and apple, while Claridge’s Bar will serve The Newt’s cyder. A limited-edition Claridge’s X The Newt tote bag will also be available both in-store and online.

A dedicated Claridge’s X The Newt stay package will be available during the collaboration, including accommodation with breakfast, a three-course meal in The Foyer, and a selection of welcome items from The Newt. Rates start from £1,220.

Thomas Kochs, Managing Director of Claridge’s, commented: “We are pleased to welcome The Newt to Claridge’s at the start of the summer season, when London is in full bloom. Our lobby will once again become a focal point, bringing together creativity, craftsmanship and a sense of occasion for our guests.”

Andrew Foulkes, CEO of Hospitality at The Newt in Somerset, added: “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to quality, hospitality and craftsmanship. Bringing the character of The Newt to Claridge’s offers an opportunity to present our produce and perspective in a new context.”

Claridge’s X The Newt in Somerset will take place from 18 to 31 May 2026 in Mayfair. Further details are available at maybourne.com.

Oetker Hotels Debuts in the United States with the Opening of The Vineta Hotel, Palm Beach

April 10^th

Oetker Hotels Debuts in the United States with the Opening of The Vineta Hotel, Palm Beach

The Vineta Hotel, Palm Beach Opens

Oetker Hotels Debuts in the United States

Palm Beach

Palm Beach, Florida – Oetker Hotels marks a significant milestone with the opening of The Vineta Hotel, its first Masterpiece Hotel in the United States. Following a comprehensive renovation, the historic property has been reintroduced to Palm Beach, combining its architectural heritage with a contemporary European design perspective.

Developed in partnership with Reuben Brothers, the transformation of the landmark hotel includes redesigned public spaces and 41 guest rooms and suites. The project was led by internationally recognised interior designer Tino Zervudachi and his firm ZRM, working closely with architects Spina O’Rourke & Partners.

Timo Gruenert, CEO of Oetker Hotels, commented on the opening:
“This marks an important moment for the brand as we introduce our first Masterpiece Hotel in the United States. Palm Beach has long been a destination for our guests, and The Vineta allows us to extend our approach to hospitality to this market.”

A Design Rooted in Heritage

The Vineta’s distinctive façade reflects Palm Beach’s Mediterranean Revival architecture, carefully preserved as part of the restoration. Interiors introduce a refined yet relaxed aesthetic, balancing European sensibility with the light and character of the destination.

The redesign respects the building’s legacy while introducing contemporary elements, ensuring the property remains relevant for a new generation of travellers.

A key feature of the hotel is Coco’s, a restaurant concept inspired by the celebrated cuisine of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. The offering brings a selection of signature dishes to Palm Beach, reinforcing the connection between Oetker Hotels’ European properties and its US debut.

At the poolside, The Pool House provides a more informal setting, serving a menu that ranges from Italian classics and raw bar selections to salads and traditional favourites. The space draws on retro influences, with detailed trellising and decorative elements shaping the setting.

The hotel’s pool acts as a central focal point, designed with bespoke mosaic detailing and architectural references to Palm Beach. Surrounded by landscaped areas and private lounging spaces, it offers a setting for both relaxation and social interaction.

Guests also have access to in-room fitness equipment, poolside yoga sessions, and personal training services. For those looking to spend time by the ocean, the hotel provides a dedicated beach set-up nearby.

Originally opened in 1926 as the Lido-Venice, the property was later renamed The Vineta, a title it held for more than five decades. After several evolutions, including its period as The Chesterfield, the hotel closed in 2022 before undergoing its latest transformation.

The reinstatement of The Vineta name signals a renewed identity while maintaining a clear connection to its past.

Jamie Reuben of Reuben Brothers said:
“The Vineta holds a special place in Palm Beach. With Oetker Hotels’ approach, we are confident it will once again become an important part of the local landscape.”

INTRODUCING HOUSE LOCALS BY UPPER HOUSE

March 28^th

INTRODUCING HOUSE LOCALS BY UPPER HOUSE

Offering Insider Access Across Hong Kong, Chengdu and Shanghai

Hong Kong, Chengdu, Shangai

Upper House presents House Locals, a series of curated experiences led by individuals whose deep personal connections offer a more nuanced perspective on their cities. Spanning Hong Kong, Chengdu and Shanghai, each experience is shaped by local knowledge, giving guests access to culture, landscape and tradition through a more informed and considered lens.

In Hong Kong, Head Hiker Leo guides guests along lesser-known trails that reveal the city from a different vantage point. Focused on urban hiking, he describes the experience as “the best alternative way to fly”, moving from skyline to ridgeline within a single morning. At Victoria Peak, he adapts routes to suit individual pace and interests, introducing alternative paths that shift the perspective on this well-known setting. Along the way, he shares insight into neighbourhoods, history and community, offering a layered understanding of both the terrain and the city below, before returning guests to Upper House by evening.

In Chengdu, Panda Protector Danny draws on a long-standing connection to the region’s most recognisable species. Inspired by early visits to the Chengdu Panda Base, he now guides guests beyond observation, placing the panda within a wider narrative of conservation and biodiversity. Through visits to Dujiangyan Panda Valley, guests can engage in hands-on volunteer experiences that reveal the work behind habitat protection. Danny extends this story into the city itself, linking conservation to Sichuan’s food culture, including experiences at Mi Xun Teahouse, where seasonal ingredients sourced from surrounding regions reflect a shared respect for the environment.

Also in Chengdu, Tea Master Yvonne offers a more personal introduction to the region’s tea culture. Raised in Sichuan, her approach is grounded in lived experience rather than formal training, shaped by daily ritual and an instinctive understanding of each leaf. Through private tastings, she explores the influence of altitude, climate and soil on flavour, while demonstrating the precision required in production techniques such as oolong. Her sessions favour a quieter, more considered approach, while also guiding guests towards respected local tea houses to experience the city’s tea culture in its everyday setting.

In Shanghai, Chef Tony presents an insight into one of the city’s defining culinary traditions. At Sui Tang Li, he approaches soup dumplings as both heritage and evolution, combining classical technique with contemporary influence. He places particular emphasis on precision, from the translucency of the dough to the structure and pleating of each dumpling. Guests can take part in private masterclasses, alongside guided visits to local markets and seasonal food experiences, including autumn’s hairy crab and summer’s early-morning wine culture. His knowledge extends beyond the restaurant, offering access to neighbourhood kitchens where some of the city’s most accomplished interpretations can be found.

House Locals reflects Upper House’s approach to hospitality, placing emphasis on individual perspective and meaningful engagement. Each experience is designed to offer a deeper understanding of place, shaped by those who know it best.