Image courtesy of Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection
There’s a lot to look forward to this year. From adult-only all-inclusives to burgers on planes, here are the openings and new experiences I'm most excited about as we kick off 2025. Read on for the latest, then reach out to get planning.
Bluebird Cafe heads to Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection
Image courtesy of Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection
Bluebird Cafe is a Nashville institution. It opened in 1982, and has since helped progress the careers of musicians like Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Taylor Swift and numerous others. In January, February and March of this year, the storied restaurant will team up with Bishop’s Lodge, in Santa Fe, for six intimate evenings of songwriter storytelling and performances. As a guest, you’ll be able to talk with the performers after their sets. The performances are held in the hotel’s 12-bedroom Bunkhouse, a Southwestern-chic retreat made from reclaimed barn wood. Expect towering vaulted ceilings, a two-story stone fireplace and vibrant textiles.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, $50 daily breakfast credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fine print: dates include Jan 17–18, February 21–22 and Mar 21–22
New restaurants and experiences at L’Apogée Courchevel, Oetker Collection
Image courtesy of L’Apogée Courchevel, Oetker Collection
If ever there was a good time to visit the Alps, it’s now. Oetker’s L’Apogée Courchevel just introduced Giovanni’s, an elevated Italian restaurant, and Carmen, a tapas restaurant where diners sit counterside. Another new foodie adventure is Chalet at the Heights. Take a snowmobile to a secluded mountain spot, where an intimate caviar tasting — complemented by Champagne or vodka — awaits.
Fora Perks:
$100 food / beverage or spa credit, breakfast daily and priority access to a courtesy car.
Shake Shack and wine on Delta
Image courtesy of Delta
Travelers on first-class Delta flights out of Boston can now enjoy Shake Shack as their in-flight meal (the collaboration kicked off in December). Order and customize your burger in advance if you’d like, either on the Delta app or via a link sent to your email. Along with Shake Shack’s signature burger, you’ll get a Caesar salad, potato chips and a dark-chocolate brownie. Even better, pair your meal with a glass of organic Malbec or a crisp Sangiovese. Delta has leveled up their in-flight wine program, courtesy of a partnership with Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson, one of 26 female Master Sommeliers in the world. The year of brand collaborations has arrived.
Fine print: meals available on first-class flights of over 900 miles that fly out of Boston.
Kimpton Tres Rios is now accepting bookings
Images courtesy of Kimpton Tres Rios
The all-inclusive Kimpton Tres Rios, on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is now accepting reservations for trips starting March 19 onwards. You’ll love the brand’s signature youthful, chic aesthetic, reflected in the breezy rooms equipped with private plunge pools and balconies. You’ll also love the resort’s natural setting: 340 acres of eco-trails, cenotes and rivers. Stop by the outdoor De La Calle for Mexican street food cooked on a comal, or the rooftop Nebbia for cocktails with a view. And don’t miss Bacetto for a rustic-Italian moment, nor Kotori for Asian fusion in a modern, hip setting. If you haven’t heard, all-inclusives are back.
Ultima Hotel Gstaad reopens
Image courtesy of Ultima Hotel Gstaad
In late November, this Swiss alpine getaway reopened its doors following extensive renovations to their spa and wellness offerings. The hotel partnered with the high-end fitness company Workshop, which offers highly personalized training and nutritional plans, to deck out their gym. Sporty & Rich took over the fitness center’s attached boutique, filling it with the brand’s chic, preppy leisurewear. Over at the spa, treat your skin to treatments using Augustinus Bader and Seed to Skin products. Your body will thank you.
W Punta Cana is now accepting bookings
Another new all-inclusive — this one adult-only — is open for booking. You’ll be able to travel to the forthcoming Dominican Republic resort starting April 15, 2025. The vibe is modern-tropical-trendy, with an open-air lobby filled with plants, polished dining venues and expansive minimalist rooms complemented by colorful accents.