New Resorts Signify Impressive Growth For Travel And Tourism

Despite the plethora of daunting challenges faced by the hospitality industry over the past few years, the World Travel & Tourism Council is projecting a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism in 2024, with the sector’s global economic contribution set to reach an all-time high of $11.1 trillion. According to the global tourism body’s 2024 Economic Impact Research, Travel & Tourism will contribute an additional $770 billion over its previous record, thereby solidifying its stature as a global economic engine, generating one in every 10 dollars worldwide. As the global sector surpasses its pre-pandemic prosperity, 142 of 185 countries are expected to outperform previous national records.

An important sign of this economic prosperity has been the opening of new resorts and hotels throughout the world, along with major renovations. To follow are several examples.

Newport Harbor Island Resort, the sole accommodations on Goat Island, is set to open at the end of April following a $50 million renovation. The renovation marks a new era for the former-Gurney’s property, comprised of refreshed, expansive guestrooms and suites, contemporary Spa, re-concepted culinary experiences, meeting spaces and 22-slip marina. Much of the art in the rooms and throughout the hotel was commissioned from local artists, while soft goods were hand-crafted by various New England weavers’ guilds. Instead of focusing on the ubiquitous Gilded Era and sailing communities of Newport, the design team chose to focus on the inherent simplicity of coastal life. Guests and locals will be invited to cozy up in the property’s upgraded culinary outlets, including its full-service restaurant 1639, Torpedo Bar and Lounge, the lobby’s The Bakery and the beloved Pineapple Club.

Slated to debut spring 2024, TA’AKTANA is situated in the scenic town of Labuan Bajo among the enchanting landscapes of Flores island, which is home to one of the world’s highest populations of the endangered Komodo dragons. TA’AKTANA joins The Luxury Collection as Marriott Bonvoy’s first property in the region. The resort spans 16 hectares of pristine terrain and boasts 70 exquisitely designed guest rooms and suites, including overwater villas and family-friendly accommodations with 24-hour butler service. The resort’s Sea Villas offer overwater opulence that will immerse guests in the beauty of the resort’s local surroundings. TA’AKTANA is a destination itself, offering exceptional comfort and amenities. Guests can unwind in expansive pools offering breathtaking views of the Flores Sea, indulge in wellness with rejuvenating treatments or embark on a delectable gastronomic journey.

Cameron House, the five-star resort on Loch Lomond, Scotland, opened La Vista, a brand new restaurant. La Vista will serve authentic Italian cuisine and boasts panoramic views of the loch. Formerly The Boat House, the acclaimed resort has invested $2 million in transforming the lochside restaurant into a modern, light and airy dining space with a 138-cover restaurant, informal Mercato with a dining area for 50 guests and a private dining room for up to 24 people. An al fresco terrace launching in the summer will provide an additional 120 covers. Open seven days a week, from breakfast to dinner, Head Chef, Mark Pawsey’s main menu celebrates authentic Italian cuisine and features dishes rooted in traditional recipes executed with modern flair. The menu is divided into small aperitivo plates and cicchetti, larger signature mains, handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas cooked in a Valoriani oven.

Opened on March 27, The Rockley, located on the South Coast of Barbados, brings a local vibe and a hip new hotel experience to the Rockley Beach area known for its lively bars, signature restaurants and authentic island experiences. Owned and operated by the Ocean Hotels Group, the Rockley is the reincarnation of the old South Beach hotel. The modern 49-room boutique hotel, an urban chic oasis, was brought to life by Michelle Leotaud of Apple & Iron, a Barbados-based design firm. Rooms at The Rockley feature colorful local touches including playful Bajan sayings on throw pillows, the island’s iconic Bus Stop sign and thoughtful locally crafted amenities that celebrate Bajan culture. The hotel’s new outdoor covered bar area offers a trendy beach club vibe that will feature daily and nightly entertainment. The Rockley has also upgraded and repurposed its reception, pool deck and communal spaces.

Following a series of renovations of the common spaces, Octant Ponta Delgada, located in the Azores on São Miguel Island, launched five new room categories. Among the five newly renovated suite categories, the spotlight shines on a Whale Watching Room, a sanctuary where guests can observe the majestic blue whales with an in-room telescope and private balcony. With panoramic ocean views and thoughtful amenities, including exercise and yoga equipment and a minibar with local products, the new room promises an unparalleled connection with the surrounding nature of the islands. From the Sea View Room, offering stunning vistas of the marina, to the spacious Family Two Bedroom suite, perfect for family getaways, every space reflects the island’s natural charm and elegance.

Red Carnation Hotel Collection will open 100 Princes Street, its first Scottish hotel, in spring 2024. Inspired by the adventures and tales of Scottish explorers who once called the building their home away from home, 100 Princes Street is set within the historic former Overseas League, nestled in Edinburgh’s cultural heart, a stone’s throw from Scotland’s National Gallery. With uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle, the original building and its iconic features will be respectfully renovated, transforming it into an exclusive retreat on Edinburgh’s most famous street.