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Forbes
38 minutes ago
- Forbes
Virtuoso Travel Experts Reveal Their Favorite Cruises And Hotels For 2025
Quark Expeditions new World Explorer Ship Quark Expeditions In celebrating the global luxury industry, travel network Virtuoso has revealed the nominations for its 2025 Best of the Best awards at this year's Virtuoso Travel Week held in Las Vegas this month. Now in its 37th year, the prestigious event celebrates top travel advisors, agencies, and preferred partners across the luxury sector. Selected through a network-wide survey of top travel agencies, the nominees represent a curated list of Virtuoso's most prestigious collaborators. More than 12,000 travel advisors vote to determine the winners across multiple categories, including Most Innovative Experience and Best Achievement in Design. While the nominations naturally reflect the preferences of Virtuoso's internal network, they offer a view of what's trending in high-end travel. Last year's shortlist notably excluded U.S. properties in the Best New Hotel category, despite several high-profile debuts, while Italy took over the spotlight with most entries in the Best Hotel category. This year's nominations present a more globally balanced lineup. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Edgardo Contreras Crystal - In 2022, travel company A&K Travel Group acquired the Crystal brand, and they refurbished and relaunched several of their ships. Guests can dine at the only restaurant at sea by the award-winning chef, Nobu Matsuhisa. Also relax with personal butler service for every spacious guest room and suite - In 2022, travel company A&K Travel Group acquired the Crystal brand, and they refurbished and relaunched several of their ships. Guests can dine at the only restaurant at sea by the award-winning chef, Nobu Matsuhisa. Also relax with personal butler service for every spacious guest room and suite Explora Journeys - Elegant ships inspired by superyachts, this company selects off the beaten path locations, focusing on a slower pace with longer stays in each destination. - Elegant ships inspired by superyachts, this company selects off the beaten path locations, focusing on a slower pace with longer stays in each destination. Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Personalized service, all-inclusive luxury, culinary excellence and immersive destinations are all what keep fans returning. - Personalized service, all-inclusive luxury, culinary excellence and immersive destinations are all what keep fans returning. Silversea (Winner in 2023 and 2024) - Continues its reign with bespoke experiences, small ship journeys with spacious, ocean-view suites and butler service. (Winner in 2023 and 2024) - Continues its reign with bespoke experiences, small ship journeys with spacious, ocean-view suites and butler service. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection- Bringing its iconic hotel-style luxury to open waters. They recently launched their new superyacht Ilma offering spacious suites with private terraces, open-air lounges and an aft Marina right on the water. Aria Amazon Aqua Expeditions AmaWaterways - This family-owned company offers luxury cruises through famous capitals and quaint towns. They dock near city centers, so that you can step right off the ship and explore. - This family-owned company offers luxury cruises through famous capitals and quaint towns. They dock near city centers, so that you can step right off the ship and explore. Aqua Expeditions - Ponant Explorations Group recently acquired the cruise line which has become famous for its intimate small ship expeditions to distant parts of the world. - Ponant Explorations Group recently acquired the cruise line which has become famous for its intimate small ship expeditions to distant parts of the world. Heritage Line - The company operates from three to nine-night luxury cruises on the Upper Mekong with more itineraries downriver in Cambodia and Vietnam. - The company operates from three to nine-night luxury cruises on the Upper Mekong with more itineraries downriver in Cambodia and Vietnam. Tauck River Cruising - This family-owned company offers exclusive access to rare destinations and excursions with a focus on cultural connections along the way. They recently announced new land journeys explore hidden Greece, and the legends of the Scottish Highlands. - This family-owned company offers exclusive access to rare destinations and excursions with a focus on cultural connections along the way. They recently announced new land journeys explore hidden Greece, and the legends of the Scottish Highlands. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises (Winner in 2023) The company puts a focus on a luxury boutique hotel experience on water. Each ship is inspired by the rivers which they cruise, and feature butler service, and large all-marble bathrooms. Celebrity Cruises - Their luxury Celebrity Flora expedition ship offers the largest and most premium accommodations in the Galapagos Islands. The 100-guest ship is designed exclusively for sailing the islands and every stateroom on board is a suite. - Their luxury Celebrity Flora expedition ship offers the largest and most premium accommodations in the Galapagos Islands. The 100-guest ship is designed exclusively for sailing the islands and every stateroom on board is a suite. Lindblad Expeditions - Lindblad joined forces with National Geographic in 2004 providing guests with unique experiences, including immersive programs for photographers, young explorers and undersea enthusiasts, as well as opportunities to explore alongside the National Geographic Experts who join select voyages. - Lindblad joined forces with National Geographic in 2004 providing guests with unique experiences, including immersive programs for photographers, young explorers and undersea enthusiasts, as well as opportunities to explore alongside the National Geographic Experts who join select voyages. PONANT - The company recently launched Le Commandant Charcot, the first hybrid electric and liquefied natural gas polar exploration vessel with two laboratories allow scientists to collect data that contributes to the understanding of the poles. Le Boréal, L'Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial have access to isolated locations or ports reserved for small units. - The company recently launched Le Commandant Charcot, the first hybrid electric and liquefied natural gas polar exploration vessel with two laboratories allow scientists to collect data that contributes to the understanding of the poles. Le Boréal, L'Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial have access to isolated locations or ports reserved for small units. Quark Expeditions (Winner in 2023 and 2024)- The company is a leader in polar adventure, and recently unveil its Arctic 2026 season, Ice, Fire, and The Eclipse. The new season celebrates 35 years of the company's exploration in the Arctic. (Winner in 2023 and 2024)- The company is a leader in polar adventure, and recently unveil its Arctic 2026 season, Ice, Fire, and The Eclipse. The new season celebrates 35 years of the company's exploration in the Arctic. Silversea- In 2022, Silversea launched Silver Endeavour to its fleet—their most luxurious expedition ship, designed to take travelers to the world's most remote destinations, including both polar regions. Suite at Royal Mansour Casablanca Royal Mansour Casablanca Honoring debut properties and revivals, this category spotlights hotels that have redefined the luxury stay within the last year. Among the nominations are two waterfront properties in the United States, Beach Club at The Boca Raton and Regent Santa Monica Beach. Only one European property made the list, Rocco Forte House in Milan, while Royal Davui Island Resort in Fiji, and Royal Mansour in Casablanca rounded out the selection. Eden Rock Cap Cana in Punta Cana Eden Roc Cap Cana Best Independently Operated Hotel In an effort to open up the selections, the nominations this year separated the best hotel categories with boutique properties listed apart from Best Brand Hotel. Several of the properties in this category have been previously nominated for Hotel of the Year including Passalacqua in Lake Como and The Dewberry Charleston in the U.S. Eden Roc Cap Cana in Punta Cana rounds out the list of famed properties including Palazzo Margherita from Francis Ford Coppola in Bernalda, and The Place Firenze in Florence. Carlton Cannes - a Regent Hotel in the French Riviera Regent Hotels Best Brand Hotel This award recognizes an iconic hotel that epitomizes excellence in luxury hospitality with nominees Bvlgari Hotel in Tokyo, Carlton Cannes in France, Park Hyatt Milano in Italy, Regent Hong Kong, and Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado in Peru. Hotelier Of The Year This award recognizes a hotel manager or owner who demonstrates leadership and vision, an appreciation for detail, and an engaged commitment to the Virtuoso travel network. Silvio Vettorello , General Manager at Grand Hotel Tremezzo & Passalacqua in Italy (Owner Valentina de Santis won this category in 2022) , General Manager at Grand Hotel Tremezzo & Passalacqua in Italy (Owner Valentina de Santis won this category in 2022) Claudio Meli , General Manager at The Place Firenze in Italy (nominated in 2023) , General Manager at The Place Firenze in Italy (nominated in 2023) Christopher Southwick , Owner of Royal Davui Island Resort in Fiji , Owner of Royal Davui Island Resort in Fiji Danilo Guerrini , General Manager of Borgo San Felice Resort in Italy , General Manager of Borgo San Felice Resort in Italy Victorio Gonzalez, General Manager of Montage Big Sky in Montana This year's list of nominees offers a look into Virtuoso's take on the pinnacle of luxury travel as well as offering a preview of where the industry is headed. According to Virtuoso advisors, travelers in the coming year are seeking cold weather escapes, solo cruise adventures, wellness retreats to recharge, TikTok-inspired destinations, and immersive culinary experiences that go beyond fine dining. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes The 15 Most Unique Hotels In The World, According To Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Awards By Jim Dobson Forbes 25 Dazzling New Luxury Hotels Opening In 2025 By Jim Dobson
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
Villas, Castles And Trulli: Puglia's Best Private Stays
Perched on the sunny heel of Italy's boot, Puglia is where Italians go on vacation, lured by powder‑white hill towns, silvery olive groves and fishing towns clinging to the coastline. A villa rental here—whether a freshened-up farmhouse, classic castello or traditional trullo—provides a true local perspective on the area and is a surprisingly affordable option for larger groups. Trullo Agathea Trullo Agathea Amid the low hills and ancient olive groves of Puglia's Valle d'Itria is a unique architectural structure found nowhere else in the country: the trullo. With whitewashed stone dwalls and distinctive cone-shaped roofs made from stacked limestone, trulli (plural of trullo) are little Puglian marvels rooted in centuries of rural history. Orginally designed to be easily dismantled and reassembled as a means to avoid property taxes, trulli were typically built by farmers and laborers with just stones and no mortor. The unique design had other benifits too, as trulli are ingeniously suited to the hot southern climate, keeping inhabitants cool all summer long. Over time, the quirky appearance and brilliant functionality made trulli synonymous with the Puglia's identity, especially around the UNESCO-listed town of Alberobello. Staying in a trullo isn't just about aesthetics though, it's about experiencing the region in an only-in-Puglia fashion. Trullo Agathea, only available through The Thinking Traveller, offers one of the finest interpretations of this ancient building style. Located just outside Cisternino, one of Puglia's most atmospheric hill towns known for its excellent butchers, Trullo Agathea blends historical charm and modern comfort. Designed to sleep up to four guests in two bedrooms, each with their own en suite bathroom, the villa unfolds across a small cluster of conical-roofed buildings that have been carefully restored to retain their original features. Thick stone walls provide natural insulation, keeping interiors cool even in high summer, while vaulted ceilings and softly curved walls lend a sense of cocooned tranquility to each room. The decor is rustic with wood furniture, local ceramics and natural linens in a palette of whites, creams and olive greens. What makes Trullo Agathea particularly special is the surrounding landscape. The home is nestled within a well-tended olive grove, thriving with ancient trees, Mediterranean herbs, and even a few fruit trees. A pergola-shaded dining area makes the most of the peaceful views and is ideal for long, lazy lunches. The private pool is perfectly proportioned and shaded terraces invite afternoon snoozes or sunset spritzes. Location-wise, Trullo Agathea is ideal for exploring the region: It's just outside of Cisternino, and the towns of Ostuni, Martina Franca, and Locorotondo are all within easy reach, while beaches along the Adriatic coast are also within reach. Trullo Agathea by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 4 and starts at $654 per night ($4,583 per week). Masseria La Residenza Masseria La Residenza The Masseria Masterpiece: Masseria La Residenza Like a trullo, a masseria (plural masserie) is a fortified farmhouse traditionally found in Puglia's countryside. Orginally built to serve as a rural home and community hub for landowners, workers and even livestock, most masserie in Puglia date back to the 16th through 19th centuries. Today, many have been beautifully restored into stylish retreats—both as hotels and private homes. Masseria La Residenza was built in the early 1800s, though it was recently refurbished to include all the creature comforts needed. Set among almond and olive groves just outside the town of Fasano, the villa inclues a social-media-ready L-shaped swimming pool; manicured gardens; and multiple al fresco dining spots under pergolas and on terraces. There's also a fantastic outdoor gym. With five beautifully appointed suites dressed with chandeliers, baroque antiques and luxurious headboards, expect high-end vibes and no shortage of comfort. Masseria La Residenza by A&K Villas sleeps up to 10 and starts at $ 21,967 per week ($3,138 per night). Villa Monte Caliolo Villa Monte Caliolo A Modern Marvel: Villa Monte Caliolo Nestled in the heart of Valle d'Itria and a short drive from Carovigno, Ostuni and the Costa Merlata, Villa Monte Caliolo is a very modern take on a masseria. It comfortably sleeps eight across two buildings with four bedrooms (two en‑suite and two sharing a spacious shower room). Interiors are minimalist and elegant, with locally hewn furniture and natural materials. Outside, the infinity pool is the star of the show, overlooking olive groves and glimpses of the blue Adriatic. A team is available to organize excursions, meals or wellness services tailored to your tastes. Villa Monte Caliolo by The Luxury Travel Book sleeps up to 8 and starts at $743 per night ($5,201 per week). Casino Doxi Stracca Casino Doxi Stracca An Old‑World Wonder: Casino Doxi Stracca It doesn't get more old-world glamorous than Casino Doxi Stracca. An aristocratic 18th-century villa set within five acres of landscaped gardens, groves and vineyards, Casino Doxi Stracca is steeped in history and undeniably luxurious after a sensitive recent restoration. Original architectural features include a chapel, frescoed ceilings and grand reception rooms, but it's the unbelievable 59-foot-long pool that will have sunworshippers besotted. In addition to the Instagram-ready pool, there's also a plunge pool and plenty of shaded areas. It accommodates up to 14 guests in seven bedrooms, so there's no shortage of space and privacy, especially for multigenerational gatherings or for groups of friends. There's a well-equipped kitchen for self-catering, but the concierge services can also arrange for private chefs, cooking classes and local wine tastings. Casino Doxi Stracca by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 14 and starts at $10,413 ($1,487 per night). (Note: Casino Doxi Stracca also has a reduced price avaible upon request, during the shoulder season, for groups up to 8, needing only 4 bedrooms.) Castello di Caprarica Castello di Caprarica A Classic Castello: Castello di Caprarica For modern day princesses and princes, try a bone fide castle: Castello di Caprarica is an early 16th-century castle near Tricase, blending architectural grandeur and noble lineage with contemporary comfort. Sleeping up to 22 of your best friends, it's perfect for large groups seeking something opulent yet livable. Indoors the luxury continues with original vaulted ceilings, chapel spaces and elegant bedrooms with historical detailings. Other than its good looks, a big sell is the location as it's within walking access to the town center of Tricase, with plenty of restaurants, shops and bars. It's also in close proximity to the sand beaches of the Ionian coast and the baroque beauty of Lecce, one of Puglia's most iconic cities. Castello di Caprarica by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 22 and starts at $10,539 ($1,505 per night).
Fox News
4 hours ago
- Fox News
Pope addresses 1 million young Catholics gathered in Rome
Father Michael Tidd, headmaster at the Delbarton School in New Jersey, reacts to the massive number of young Catholics who made a pilgrimage to Rome to celebrate the Jubilee of Youth with Pope Leo XIV.
