What's New

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.