The rooms at the top offer a gasp-worthy view through picture windows, a floor-to-ceiling screensaver complete with ASMR storm sounds if you visit during the rainy season. The brief Grenadian sunset rolls in from the South-West, painting the sky Apperol orange, a nightly performance many choose to enjoy from the beach (or the beach bar).

The resort was built in the 1970s but has seen a few ownership changes and undergone a number of major renovations. The most recent updates brought a more subtle, Mediterranean look and feel to the space, with blue tiles and mixed pastels. The property continues to the beach with an allée path cutting through the grand lawn, lit up with torches at night. From this vantage point, you can see the hotel’s terracotta roofs cascading down the hill between the tropical greenery, a postcard view.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted by the Grenada Tourism Authority, which did not review or approve this story.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

Beach and Savvy beach cabana restaurant at Mount Cinnamon, Grenada.

Flying Fish restaurant at Mount Cinnamon, Grenada.

The vibe & Shared spaces 

The rooms are spread out across the property, creating a sense of privacy at each level of the resort. The restaurant and pool are located on the street level. Past the desk, my eye is immediately drawn to the tiled pool with a petite island in the centre, accented by a flower wall with a small waterfall. A few tables are nested at the top in front of the bar. To the left is a sitting area with a grand piano and the Flying Fish restaurant. The restaurant’s garden terrace, mostly surrounded by tropical plants, frames a sneak peek of the sea view.

Tucked away in the corner by the pool is a small retail shop showcasing a curated collection of goods by local producers – clothing, skincare, jewellery, and of course, spices. “The plan is to also serve coffee in here soon,” assistant general manager Laura Mutti shared. During the day, this space is quiet, most people wander down to the beach. The grand lawn is not all decorative, much of it is used for outdoor games – volleyball, shuffleboard, cornhole, croquet, ping pong – lots to choose from. For the more serious wellness and fitness guests, Mount Cinnamon has a fairly spacious gym and a large tennis court.

All beaches in Grenada are public, but even looking at the long stretch of Grand Anse Beach, it does not look crowded. Hotel staff set up sunbeds and umbrellas as needed, keeping the space clear of clutter. Folks spend entire days on the beach, sunbathing, napping, reading, and searching for squid families out in the sea with a snorkel.

Inside the Suite

There is a total of 36 rooms at Mount Cinnamon, some are suites, some are villas. All accomodations, surrounded by tropical gardens, have a veranda and a covered porch, sitting rooms, and all necessary amenities and toiletries. Nightly turndown service and daily breakfast are included in all room rates.

The entry-level room is the new one-bedroom Cinnamon suite. This spacious room has a full closet, a large bathroom with a shower, a scenic balcony, and a seating area with a sofa. Hacienda suites are 1,000+ sq ft with seperate living room, bedroom, and kitchen area with a full-size Smeg fridge. This room, and all rooms above it, have an on-suite washer-dryer; you can literally make this your home for an extended period of time.

For bigger groups, Mount Cinnamon offers Luxury villas (2-8 guests), a Poolside Two-bedroom Garden suite (4 guests), and the ultimate Caribbean luxury, Cinnamon Heights villa. This 6,000 sq ft villa accommodates 8 guests, has two sea-view terraces, multiple rooms and bathrooms, a private pool, an outdoor jacuzzi tub, and an indoor garage.

Window view from the Cinnamon Suite, Mount Cinnamon Beach & Wellness Resort.

One of the Hacienda suites, Mount Cinnamon, each room has a slightly different layout and decor.

Dinning & Entertainment

The hotel has a sustainable private garden growing herbs and vegetables for the kitchen. The garden initiative is three years old and was one of the major drivers for the hotel’s Green Globe Certification. Cared for by groundskeeper Mr Lincoln, this mini farm grows salad greens, peppers, vegetables, fruits, and a rich selection of herbs.

The menus are an inspired mix of traditional Caribbean and West Indian fare. Breakfast and dinner are served at the Flying Fish restaurant, located on the street level of the property. Starting the day with a fresh breakfast, surrounded by a tropical garden, is a dream come true. Lunch and some dinners are served at the beach cabana, Savvy. Though a casual spot during the day, in the evening, Savyy turns into a hotspot for guests and locals alike, often dressed up for the meal.

Weekly events include an afternoon DJ session, complimentary sunset and morning yoga, bonfire beach dinner, taco and tapas themed dinner, and weekly social hour at the pool bar. Guests can also opt for private experiences like rum tastings, chef-guided lunch demos, and coursed chef tasting dinner.

Mount Cinnamon groundskeeper Mr Lincoln giving a tour of the resort’s vegetable and herb garden.

What to do nearby

Many of the island activities can be accessed directly from the resort or the beach. The Mount Cinnamon team can assist you with non-motorised spots, like kayaking and paddleboarding, or book you in for a diving lesson. The resort is also conveniently located for day excursions. Here are a few to consider.

Book direct on mountcinnamon.com to take advantage of special offers, compare rates to your favourite travel site: Expedia | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com | Booking.com

The post Experience authentic Grenada at the Mount Cinnamon Beach & Wellness Resort appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Morne Rouge Beach, better known locally as BBC, is less crowded than the nearby Grand Anse Beach, with less light pollution but enough waterplay to keep you entertained – the first time I saw a green sports car doing doughnuts on the water, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Villa Kaya is equipped with two paddle boards, which you can launch directly from the dock. Along the rocks, you will see crabs and other critters living in the shade. Out in the bay are colourful starfish, if you can spot them in time.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted by the Grenada Tourism Authority, which did not review or approve this story.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

Breakfast is served daily from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. The daily selection includes a few hot meal options, like eggs and bacon, toast, yoghurt and cereal, seasonal fresh fruit, and pastries. You could sit outside at the large community table with a view, but the early morning heat kept us both inside, enjoying the cool comfort of air conditioning paired with a cup of hot coffee or tea made with local herbs.

A series of garden staircases connects the ocean with the main road. At the top is the shared Club House. In this room, open 24 hours a day, you will find cold beverages, sitting areas, various games, and the only TV on the property. The absence of TVs in the room was an intentional choice to inspire relaxation and exploration. Lazy afternoons are spent cooling down at the pool, reading in the shade on the waterfront terrace, or snorkelling in search of the quick-moving starfish. No lines, no waiting, no reserving sunbeds, this corner of Grenada, is a private retreat.

Inside the Suite

The property has three sea view suites and two villas. Each room is subtly different from the others; all have rainshowers, seating areas, and plenty of storage. Every room has an equipped kitchenette with a stove top and a microwave so you can cook your own meals (the shopping area is quite close). Beach Glass and Driftwood suites have small garden entry spaces and elevated sea views. Having purposefully left the curtains slightly open, I would wake up to the morning sun streaming into the room, bright blue water gently moving in the background.

The Boathouse Villa has a separate kitchen room, private terrace, outdoor BBQ, soaker tub, and an outdoor shower where your morning rinse will be accompanied by frog songs (they are very small, and cute). Though, to be fair, frog songs are heard everywhere on the island, especially at night. Seashell Villa, set furthest into the property, has a separate kitchen with a dining table, double-headed shower for two, a large private terrace with a netted deck and swing.

Turkish towels are neatly set at the foot of the bed in each suite, all nightstands have USB charging pods, and all rooms are equipped with power adapters. Staff are around to support you with other needs by phone or WhatsApp.

What to do nearby 

Walk out to Morne Rouge Beach for some morning sun, walk up to Quarantine Point for an elevated view of the island and Grand Anse Beach. La Plywood Beach Bar Café is a local favourite nearby for lunch, dinner, and nightly entertainment. Brisa Mar is even closer for those looking for a more elevated dining experience. Mount Cinnamon Beach Resort is a 10-minute walk and has two restaurants, one of which is on the beach. Here are a few excursion ideas:

Book direct on villakaya.gd to take advantage of special offers, compare rates to your favourite travel site: Expedia | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com

Sunset at Villa Kaya, BBC Beach, Grenada. Images by Kateryna Topol.

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Tucked away on Mercer Street, Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer feels private and secluded, despite being only a small city block South of King West. This family-owned property is one of many across Canada, all centrally located, beautifully designed boutique hotels around the country. The hotel looks quite unassuming from the outside, but as soon as you enter, a sense of comfortable luxury will reveal itself with tall ceilings and fine finishes.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted by Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercern, which did not review or approve this story.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

PUNCH Restaurant, Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer. Image courtesy of the hotel.

The vibe & Shared spaces 

Due to the location and the architectural structure of the building, the hotel does not get a lot of light, but the dimly lit, moody character of the space is embraced through design. Dark wood, carefully chosen design touches, art and live greenery set an ambience of a secret urban lounge, accompanied by matching atmospheric music. 

The open lobby has a comfortable sitting area that feels like a petite library coupled with a small boutique shop. To the right is the Mercer Lounge, hidden behind the check-in desk. To the left, through a heavy door, is the brand new PUNCH Restaurant.

Your room key gives you access to the hotel amenities like the seasonal terrace and a small but fairly well-equipped gym on the upper floor. On the mezzanine level, which looks over the lounge, are meeting rooms and a special events bar. Quiet now, this area surely comes to life in full colour when in use.

Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer lounge, images by Kateryna Topol.

Inside the Suite

There is a total of 118 rooms at the hotel, all tastefully decorated, embracing contemporary design with thoughtful lighting and modern conveniences. All of the La Germain Hotel properties are created with purpose and sustinabailty in-mind, each room has plenty of livable storage, mirrors, usable counter space in the bathroom, and places to open, store, and hide your things.

The walls behind headboards are covered with felt-inspired material made of 95% recycled matter (Svelte) with an art installation above each bed. Commissioned for the hotel, the art pieces are featherweight sculptures made by Canadian artists Ann Bartok and Olena Kassian from BARKAS.

The room lighting is defused for arrival, jazz music softly playing in the background, and chocolate dessert cups accompanied by a personal note are ready to greet the guest. The spa-like oversized bathrooms have glass walls, further opening up the space. Blinds are available for privacy. Small, thoughtful conveniences, like earplugs, water carafes (filled in with turndown service), proper wine glasses, and an interior privacy button, add to the quality of the stay. 

Rooms range from a Classic Queen to various-sized Suites, including the Apartment Suite, with separate dining and living areas, and the Executive Suite with a living room and a fireplace. The regular noon checkout time is perfect for sleeping in after a big night out and enjoying breakfast in the room.

Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer, images by Kateryna Topol.

Restaurant & Lounge

The most recent addition to the hotel is the two new dining properties: the Mercer Lounge and PUNCH Restaurant.

Mercer Lounge is a classic hotel bar, with casual, comfortable furniture, dim, moody lighting and a signature library wall with a wooden ladder. The lounge opens at 5 PM daily, welcoming locals and hotel guests for a casual catch-up and live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays. On the bar menu are cocktails, freezer martinis, interesting wines, and a selection of decadent snacks like Gunpowder Pate (pork) and Fried Mozzarella and Caviar (eat it as soon as it hits the table). 

PUNCH Restaurant, on the other hand, has the grandeur of an English ballroom. The white tablecloth, tables and long padded benches are framed by high wood-panelled walls with stained glass windows. At the back is a statement bar with only a handful of barstools where locals gather for nightcaps.

PUNCH is a conceptual restaurant. The name is inspired by the Hindi word pañch, which means “five,” pronounced as “punch”. Punch is known as the world’s first cocktail, made in the 17th century (spirit, sugar, lemon, water, and spiced tea), so here at the hotel, the restaurant welcomes the heritage and the cultural collision of flavours. The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Mandar Kulkarni (Le Select Bistro, Don Alfonso 1890, BISHA), who takes inspiration from family recipes. Guests can enjoy a modern take on classic dishes like Mumbai Chat-Slaw and Dum Pukht Chicken Biryani, or delve into world classics like Beef Wellington and Whole Grilled Seabream. Breakfast and brunch are served at the restaurant as well.

Mercer Lounge, Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer. Images courtesy of the hotel.

PUNCH Restaurant, Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer. Images courtesy of the hotel.

What to do nearby 

Le Germain Mercer is conveniently located a short walk away from the CN Tower, Aquarium, and a few other popular tourist attractions; consider purchasing a CityPASS if you plan to visit more than two. On a nice summer day, you can also walk to the city waterfront for a prolonged, relaxing afternoon.

Within short walking distance are the TIFF Lightbox Cinema and gift shop, Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Roy Thomson Hall. In addition to the shows in the permanent city theatres, Candlelight Concerts are hosted in various venues across Toronto. Current offer on Fever is up to 30% select experiences.

Book direct on germainhotels.com to take advantage of special offers (like breakfast package or the PUNCH experience menu package), flexible checkout time, and guaranteed best price. Compare rate to: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com

Gym at the Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer, images by Kateryna Topol.

The post Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer offers a rounded stay in the heart of the city appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Exiting the Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad, you are immediately enveloped by heat, a humid average of 27°C that will stay with you until departure. The island is small. In under an hour, you can drive the country end-to-end. But despite its petite breadth, Aruba has layers of history and culture, formed by those who entered its shores on ships. Centuries of economic development carved the shoreline and shaped the island into the binary destination that it is now – a tropical paradise framed by deserted industrial structures.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This trip was partially hosted by Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort who did not review or approve this story.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

Home in Aruba: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is set against the backdrop of one of Aruba’s most beautiful beaches, Eagle Beach. Neatly lined rows of yellow buildings with protruding windows shape a communal courtyard. A white picket fence frames the property rectangle into a dream dollhouse, plants and flowers accenting the yellow walls. Palmtrees, directional signs, and a bike route make it all feel like a small town with part-time locals strolling across the road, beachbags in hand. “This will do,” I jokingly think to myself, taking in the calm paradise views.

The resort is family-owned by the Dutch Van Schaijk family, who for 35+ years have been welcoming travellers and locals to their property with open arms. Over the years, the hotel grew by 23 rooms, always looking for opportunities to improve the guest experience. The rooms range from studios to one-bedroom suites and penthouses, and nearly all of them have at least a kitchenette. Here, hotel guests often become regulars, moving in for weeks at a time, stocking up their fridges, and making Aruba their seasonal family home. The resort team treats guests like family with wide smiles, ready to help with acitivites and dinners plans.

One-bedroom suite at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Aruba.

Outdoor pool at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Aruba.

The context: Historic layers that make Aruba what it is 

The island was first occupied by Archaic people who arrived in canoes from the coast of South America thousands of years ago. By A.D. 900/1000, another group of Indigenous people, the Caquetios, settled on the island, building villages and cultivating crops. The Spanish came in the 15th century in search of precious metals and pearls. Having found none of those, they declared Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao (the ABC islands) as Islas Inútiles – the useless islands. So when they left, they took the people. 

The Dutch arrived later, in 1636, making Aruba a Caribbean naval base during their eighty-year war with Spain. Recognising the local communities, they recruited Caquetios as farmers, selling meat and produce to other islands. After a brief British invasion (1806–1816), the island was returned to the Dutch in accordance with the Anglo-Dutch Treaty, officially making it a part of the Netherlands Antilles much later, in 1945.

Those early years gave rise to the Aruba Industrial period with the opening of The Lago Oil and Transport and the Arend Petroleum Companies. These were major refineries processing crude oil, bringing prosperity to the island for decades. Until they closed in 1985.

All these chapters in Aruba’s history, in one way or another, are still present in its culture and architecture. As we move through the island, sit on its beaches, and drink its perfectly clean tap water, the history is all around us, most notably seen in the Dutch colonial architecture. 

Bushiribana Ruins, Aruba, remnants of the gold-mining era on the island.

Bites, meals & Libations: From casual happy hours to custom dining experiences  

Situated far enough from high-rise hotels (though within walking range), Amsterdam Manor enjoys uninterrupted sunset performances from every angle of the property, every night. Observing my third flawless sunset I began to wonder what Aruba’s red flags might be. Are there hurricanes? When does it get cold? It does not. The island sits outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, so its only real fault is the constant wind. So we dress up to dine on the beach, where the worst-case scenario is seawater washing over your feet.

Set along this pristine shoreline is Passions on the Beach, perhaps the most romantic restaurant on the island. Breakfast and lunch are served on the terrace, but dinner tables are placed directly on the sand. Dressed in our favourite summer attire and beach-friendly sandals, we take seats around the table, struck silent by the views. Elaborate cocktails and cold wine commence the meal, followed by luxurious seafood and steak dishes with a live saxophone setting the mood. This isn’t your typical Sunday dinner, proposals are made here at least once a month.

Blueberry lemonade and a quesadilla at Horizons Lounge, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Aruba.

Back at the resort, guests gather for more casual meals at Horizons Lounge, overlooking the hotel pool and the sea from a short distance. In addition to daily service, the lounge also hosts manager cocktail parties with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, hosts all-you-can-eat fajita nights, and offers sushi service. Every stay can be tailored to your group with custom dining experiences like traditional Aruban dinners hosted on the penthouse terrace, cocktail and sushi-making classes, and custom beachside events. 

Seated in the gazebo or along the bar, we’d share secrets and laugh at each other’s travel experiences over colourful tropical drinks like the signature Fofoti and hibiscus margarita. And on another night, we gathered around the bar, tasting sake and local spirits at the sushi-making class, cheering on each other’s rolls, perfectly illuminated by the setting sun. 

Chef Eva demonstrating the art of a perfect sushi roll, and restaurant manager Maurice, sprinkling final finishes for the cheering bar crowd. 

Private dining experience set up on Eagle Beach, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Aruba.

Eagle Beach: The easy life by the Caribbean Sea

Across the island, there are over 20 public beaches, with sand so soft to the touch it feels like sugar powder. All beaches in Aruba are public with mixed amenities from adjacent hotels, family-owned restaurants, and public palapas available to beachgoers. Eagle Beach serves as an extension to the Amsterdam Manor resort with a restaurant, sunbeds, and a heart-shaped swing adorned with flowers – yet another picture-perfect spot to “put a ring on it”. For us, however, this trip turned into a perfect ladies’ getaway – one I’d welcome again any day.

From sunrise to moonlight, people are at the beach, reading in the palapa shade, sauntering the shoreline, aimlessly floating out in the sea, or cruising the turquoise waters on a jet ski. Between culinary and island adventures, I took an afternoon off to relax on the beach, intermittently reading, napping, and taking dips in the warm water. One could argue, it is the best way to waste a day.  

Along the shore, mixed greenery sets a picturesque backdrop. Curvy Fofoti trees with twisted trunks formed by the persistent winds are perhaps the most noticeable. Indigenous to the island, the Fofoti are treated with respect, and the ones on Eagle Beach are looked after by the Amsterdam Manor staff. 

Beach shop and a Fofoti tree on Eagle Beach, coconut ice cream in the shell as a daytime treat.

Sightseeing in Aruba: Lighthouses, ruins, beaches and cultural breaks 

The most common way to explore the island is with a Jeep tour, so backpacks and totes in hand, we climbed up into our De Palm Tours ride. Navigating curvy roads along cactus fields and beaches, we found our way to the California Lighthouse, known as the Hudishibana. Perched on high seaside elevation, the lighthouse, built in 1910, offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the island.

The next stop takes us to Alto Vista Chapel, surrounded by a flat courtyard with a low stone fence, cacti growing scattered along the perimeter. Built by the Spanish missionaries in 1750, this Catholic parish is still functional today. The Chapel borders the Alto Vista trail, a scenic 3-kilometre loop overlooking the shoreline. 

As we drive around, I notice a pattern of elaborately decorated car snack shacks near each popular attraction. Some have a few shaded tables, while others simply offer grab-and-go snacks, fresh juices, and cold beers. I suddenly regret my hearty in-room breakfast, wanting to taste the local offerings at each stop.

De Palm Tours Jeep tour guide Richie at the California Lighthouse, Aruba.

Moving further into the island, we disembark at Bushiribana Ruins, built in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold-mining Company Ltd.. During the gold boom, Aruba produced an equivalent of 3 million pounds of gold, but once all production came to a halt in 1916, the structures were vacated and left to weather with nature. The ruins sit atop a cliff, overlooking the rocky shoreline, showcasing Aruba’s complex volcanic foundation formed over 145 million years ago. 

Seeing that I was in Aruba, a friend mentioned a ghost town, stressing that it is something I should visit. My brief inquiries into the matter yielded no results; this ghost town seemed to be a myth. But as we traversed through this spectacular dry rock, listening to Richie’s stories, I came to realise that the aforementioned ghost town is San Nicolas, today known as the art capital of the Caribbean.

San Nicolas began as a lively entertainment neigbourhood for Dutch miners. With their departure, the city became a ghost town, but was recently brought back to life by a local art foundation, ArtisA. This colourful neigbourhood is home to art galleries, cafes, guided street art tours, and the biggest art fair in the Caribbean, Aruba Art Fair. The streets of San Nicolas are an international art gallery you can explore on your own or with Tito Bolivar from Aruba Mural Tours, the man who steered the metamorphosis of this neigbourhood.

The final stop on our day tour is Baby Beach, on the Southern end of the island. A short drive from San Nicolas, the beach is a half-moon sandy bay with shallow waters as far as the eye can see, flat like a sheet of paper. My travel companions ventured out far into the sea, I could see them swaying in the clear blue water in the distance, dipping from time to time. I stood two feet in the water on shore, determined to capture the beauty of this beach on camera, task quickly proven impossible from the ground. So instead I sat on a hot rock contemplating the contradiction of the scenery – some of the bluest water in the world set against a clear, unbothered sky, remnants of an abandoned oil refinery in the background.

The big night out: Cocktails, dance moves … shots

Every lady’s night of shenanigans begins with a classy dinner. Having bid adieu to the sushi master, we moved to the garden terrace of a 100-year-old mansion, Quinta del Carmen. The house, built in 1916, was once a family home, a physician’s practice, and a refinery clubhouse. Today, it is a fine dining establishment in the heart of Oranjestad serving world-inspired cuisine, heavy on fresh seafood.

With the moon now illuminating the way, we hopped aboard a colourful bus for an Aruba pub Krawl with Kukoo Kunuku. Joined by a rowdy group of strangers, we were each given a branded sippy cup for bottomless on-board cocktails – a fruity rum mix called the Kukoo Kiss. For the following three-and-a-half hours, we drove around, stopping at some of the island’s favourite local bars and nightlife spots. Finding a unique vibe in each bar, we danced, laughed, clapped along, and sipped our way across Oranjestad.

Dinner at Quinta del Carmen, Aruba.

Out at sea: Aruba luxury lagoon cruise to Spanish Lagoon

If I have learned anything over many years of travel is that one must not follow a big night out with a boat tour, but the mind forgets the moments it wants to forget. Picked up by Pelican Adventures in the morning, we drove out to the Pelican Pier for a Luxury Lagoon Cruise.

The boat is a classic red schooner with white sails, with water hammocks to each side of the bow. At the centre is a spacious flatbed on which I spent most of my afternoon roasting, cheeks up to the sun. And at the back, out of the sun’s merciless heat, are benches and harvest tables where our gourmet lunch was served. 

Cruising along Aruba’s southern coast, we saw the skyline transform from low-rise historic buildings to high-rise hotel towers, beaches, and parks. Further into the sea, we passed small islands, an amusement park, abandoned docking areas, and villages. Surrounded by impeccable blue water cruiser dove into the sea one-by-one to snorkel across to the Spanish Lagoon, returning invigorated and welcomed by an open bar with lively music.

Aruba Luxury Lagoon Cruise with Pelican Adventures.

* * *

Aruba’s slogan is “One Happy Island!” and after spending a week there, I can see why that might be the case. Considered as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean (“So safe, it’s almost boring”), it is not a place for extreme adventure. People come here to relax and unwind, to enjoy a life of leisure in the sun.

Having entered the country with an open mind and minimal expectations, I felt welcomed, entertained, well-fed, and most definitely relaxed. Granted, my Kodak moments were formed through personal experiences and relationships I built on the One Happy Island. But yours can be too.   

Brown pelicans and seagulls on Eagle Beach, Aruba.

Practical travel advice

Visa requirements: A valid passport accompanied by a completed approved Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED Card). The ED card is a $20 Sustainability Fee, which you can apply for online. More information about travel regulations can be found on visitaruba.com.

Getting to Aruba: From Canada, direct flights to Aruba are available from Toronto (YYZ) with Air Canada and WestJet (5-6 hours). From the USA, direct flights (3-5 hours) are available with JetBlue, American, Delta, and United from major cities like Miami, New York (JFK/EWR), Atlanta, Charlotte, Boston, Houston, and Philadelphia. UK travellers will have to connect in Amsterdam (KLM), though TUI Airways sometimes operates direct charter flights from London Gatwick. 

Drinking water: Tap water in Aruba is perfectly clean and safe to drink and meets the highest quality standard set by the WHO.

Money: The local currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG), although US dollars are also widely accepted. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Some restaurants will add a service charge for larger groups service charge is not a tip for your waiter. 

Language: Aruba is an autonomous constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Local languages are Papiamento (Afro-Portuguese Creole language) and Dutch, although most people speak English, especially across the diverse hospitality world. 

Phone and internet access: You can purchase a physical SIM on arrival at the AUA airport or be prepared by installing an eSIM ahead of time. Read more about eSIMs. 

Packing advice: make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a beach cover and a sun hat (ideally one that sits tightly on or has a tie), a folding or motorised mini fan, a few swimwear sets, evening attire, and a comfortable beach bag.

Book directly to take advantage of flexible special offers and exclusive perks at amsterdammanor.com. Compare rate to: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com

Alto Vista Chapel, Aruba.

The post Finding a life of leisure in Aruba with Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort appeared first on Paths to Travel.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.
This hotel stay was hosted as part of the Zion National Park  WITS FAM trip who did not review or approve this story. 
All images by Kateryna Topol.

The vibe & Shared spaces

Located a 20-minute from Zion National Park, the resort is set near the Virgin River and Zion’s towering red rocks. The accommodations are set in a circle around an open green space. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed at the check-in desk, which shares space with a common area and restaurant. Tall windows, turn sliding doors, open on the campsite with a large pool tucked to the side of the Clubhouse. 

To the side of the shared lawn is a kids’ playground structure with swings and lawn games that guests can take advantage of. The airstreams are staggered to one side, while campsites and cottages are lined against the mountain ranges. While some guests might choose to find a nearby restaurant for dinner, most spend their evenings on-site by the firepit, grilling hot dogs and cracking beers.

Conceptualised by Narrative Design Studio, the property is nature’s oasis, seamlessly blending nature and elegance. The Clubhouse design, in particular, takes from natural hues and mid-century design, embracing wood and stone elements. The property is pet-friendly and has EV charging stations.

Note: AutoCamp Zion is a Hilton property, so make sure to collect those points. 

Above and below: AutoCamp Zion, Classic Cabin.

AutoCamp accommodations range 

Virgin is known locally as the glamping capital of Utah, and AutoCamp is certainly here to step things up with luxury accommodation. The interiors have warm neutral palettes and mixed textures that echo the desert landscape. All spaces offer a sense of tranquillity and blissfully comfortable sleep.

The range of accommodations includes three types of Airstreams (Suite, Premium Suite, and Explorer), each of which sleeps three adults or two adults and two children. Bigger options include a Classic Cabin with a full kitchen and a private dining area, and a BaseCamp Suite, which pairs an Airstream and a canvas tent to accommodate six guests. 

All suites and cabins have a TV, Bluetooth audio system, heating and AC, spa-inspired bathrooms, well-equipped kitchenettes, and luxury bath products. ​​Cast-iron skillets and basic cookware are stored in every kitchenette. Every suite has access to a firepit and an outdoor dining area, some more private then other, all shaded and comfortable. 

On-site amenities 

The Clubhouse and terrace are the main hub at the resort, where you find games and come to enjoy your complimentary breakfast granola. The kitchen serves all-American classics and gourmet comfort food (7 AM -10 PM). Kitchen dishes can be enjoyed in the Clubhouse or in the comfort of your campsite. Here, guests will also find a general store, selling camping supplies, blankets, branded clothing, and camping snacks.

Free seasonal activities range from bike rentals to kids’ arts and crafts, game nights, morning yoga, and even live music. 

What to do nearby

Explore the Zion National Park and its many hiking routes; some parts of the park require advanced reservations. Closer to the campsite is Virgina River and the town of Springdale, with a charming historic centre, shops, and restaurants. This region also offers a wide array of adventure excursions for mixed activity levels.

Orderville: East Zion Park White Mountain Horseback Tour

A short hike followed by horseback riding experiences in the backcountry of East Zion.

Book with GetYourGuide

Greater Zion: Sunset UTV Tour & Views of Zion National Park

Take an off-road vehicle across Zion’s red rock formations and across dunes.

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Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour

See Zion National Park from a bird ‘s-eye view with informative pilot commentary.

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AutoCamp Zion
Prices starting at $186 USD for an airstream
1322 UT-9, Virgin, UT 84779, United States
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The hotel is located in the heart of Wendake, home of the Huron-Wendat Nation, in the Québec City region. First Nations people have lived here for millennia, and while their numbers and geography have dwindled, the culture and pride of the Wendat Nation are entering a Renaissance, with communities rejuvenating their land and sharing their stories in new ways.

A weekend in Wendat can easily be a week if slow travel is something you’re looking for. The destination offers a blend of luxury hotel hospitality, deep cultural experiences, and a taste of elevated Indigenous cuisine. Here, you will see culture and tradition meet modernity in harmony with nature. Just as intended hundreds of years ago.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

In luxury and one with nature

Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations stretches along the shore of Akiawenrahk River. Designed by LemayMichaud, this stunning property encompasses a 79-room hotel and a Wendat museum, Musée des Premières Nations.

The sun-drenched lobby welcomes the forest in with floor-to-ceiling windows, trees throwing long shadows across the lounge. My eyes were immediately drawn to this space, thoughtfully arranged with mid-century furniture: polished wood, rounded finishes, and dark glass blending into the exterior forestry. The walls throughout the property are ornamented with Indigenous art, artefacts, old photographs, animal mounts and game hides, harmoniously mixing tradition into the contemporary decor.

This elegant design aesthetic carries through into the guest rooms. Wood panel accents and furniture are accented by gold finishes, green velvet couches, and textured pattern seating. Forest-themed wallpaper, found in every room, amplifies the feeling of wilderness. 

All rooms face the garden or the river by design. Ground-floor suites have a terrace, while those higher up have a Juliet balcony. With the doors open on a calm summer day, light curtains gently moving in the wind, the space feels almost meditative, birds and rustling leaves serving as a musical accompaniment.

Stretching across the perimeter of the hotel is the Tsonywa’ndiyonhrat (We have one spirit) Trail. Along the trail are interpretive panels speaking to the Wendat relationship with nature. The trail meets the museum garden of the Three Sisters: corn, beans, and squash, key components in Indigenous sustainable agriculture and diet. While the trail and gardens are quite small, you can spend hours in this forest learning, delving into the history or simply passing time with a book. This immediate access to nature evokes a sense of peace and tranquillity, unencumbered by the city noise.

Hotel basics: This pet-friendly property has an indoor swimming pool, fitness room, and EV charging stations. Among the facilities are five meeting rooms and event facilities that can accommodate up to 140 people. All of the spaces are suited for conferences, meetings, and weddings. Guided trail tours and an explanatory booklet are available at the museum. 

The duality of hospitality and culture 

The overall architecture is inspired by a longhouse, a traditional dwelling of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquoian¹) people. The hotel lobby shares the entrance with Musée des Premières Nations. Purched on the side of the building, the museum’s cone shape is reminiscent of an Algonquin smokehouse. This design, according to the architects, “also symbolically evokes a lowered stockade, a place where peace and harmony reign and where protective defences are no longer necessary”. 

The museum is a national institution, dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage of the Wendat Nation. Home to a collection of nearly 350 objects, the museum experience includes the Three Sisters garden, nearby Tsawenhohi House (home of a great Wendat diplomat Nicolas Vincent Tsawenhohi), and the Ekionkiestha’ National Longhouse. 

The museum has guided tours, but my unstructured approach to this weekend meant I was in for a self-guided walk. Slowly navigating the interior with an audio guide, I took time to soak in the dark history of the region, admiring the resilience of its people. The tour travels from the dimly lit main room to a bright modern gallery space, François Vincent Kiowarini. This room is home to an exhibition titled Wendat Endi’ (Us the Wendat), a collection of portraits of people who bear the Wendat culture today.

Exiting through the back, the museum experience continues at the Ekionkiestha’ National Longhouse (Yänonhchia’ in Wendat language), built entirely of wood and bark. The longhouse, along with a smokehouse and a sweat lodge, is set in a reconstructed Wendat village, framed by a tall protective fence. In their prime days, each village had multiple longhouses, some accommodating up to 100 people. The design and year-round practicality of the structure are impressive, taking into consideration heating, sleeping arrangements, food storage, and potential for expansion.

These facilities are still used for private ceremonies and public experiences. Visitors can gather around the fire for First Nation’s Myths and Legends stories or even book an Overnight stay at the longhouse. 

Musée Huron-Wendat
15 Pl. de la Rencontre, Wendake | Map link
Admission rates starting at $13 for adults and $6.50 for children | Get 10% off booking online with coupon code WEB.
Purchase tickets on museehuronwendat.ca | Book a guided tour. 

People of the peninsula

The Wendat are matriarchal communities who originally occupied the land from the Saint Lawrence River to the Great Lakes. Villages across the regions, pushed out by European settlers who brought disease and conflict, moved around looking for a place to rebuild, eventually settling in Wendake in 1697. The original Wendat Confederacy consisted of multiple villages, some with populations of over 2,000 people. Lost to colonisation, many of these villages are still being uncovered by archaeologists across the province.  

With the Great Lakes as a backdrop, the word Wendat means people of the island or peninsula. The word Huron, however, is an exonym given to the Wendat people by the French, who compared Wendat men’s thick hair to a boar’s head. Given the linguistic and historical context of the word, it is no surprise that Wendat Nation officials have been “mulling” dropping the word “huron” from their name.

The Wendat language, Onywawenda’, which predates European contact by a thousand years, was forced out of use by the European settlers. Much of it has been lost but is now slowly coming back to life through research and community efforts. You can see Wendat words in use throughout the museum and other attractions in Wendake. Complex and beautiful, when read out loud, the words have a bit of a ring to them.

Walls of a reconstructed Wendake village and a Longhouse at Musée des Premières Nations in Wendake.

Enchanting night walk with Onhwa’ Lumina

A short drive from the hotel is one of Québec’s most unique tourism experiences, Onhwa’ Lumina. The attraction is a 1.2km night walk through an immersive installation that speaks to all of the senses, drawing visitors into the story. The pathway begins with an introduction to the experience and the Wendat Nation, beautifully illustrated on a circular panel. “Circles are very important to us,” pointed out Dominic Ste-Marie, member of the Wendat Nation from the Yanariskwa (Wolf) Clan, representative of Tourism Wendake. Wendat lean into a circular understanding of the world, one in which all the beings are equal and interdependent in harmonious unity. The circle also resembles the shape of the Earth, the sun, the moon, and the natural cycles of the universe.

As you stroll through the illuminated forest, different Wendat stories come to life around you. Stepping up to the Creation Story projection, my eyes grew wide in amazement, watching Yäa’tayenhtsihk (Sky Woman), fall from the sky to be saved by the Counsel of Animals on what will become the Great Turtle Island. Deeper into the forest, your senses sharpen, searching for the origins of sound and light, looking up at the stars and clan animals in the tree shadows. No words can properly describe what this walk is truly like. This voyage, needs to be experienced in person. 

Onhwa’ Lumina was developed by local artists, storytellers, musicians, historians, and other community members. “There were concerns about sharing the culture with the outsiders this way, but people came together sharing voices and other talents to create the experience,” Dominic shared. “And in having come together to create these stories, many people found a strengthened sense of community and deeper connection to their roots,” he added. 

Later that weekend, walking through the Wendat Endi’ exhibition at the Wendat Museum, I spotted a familiar face, a portrait of a Wendat storyteller, Dominic Ste-Marie.

Onhwa’ Lumina
110 Rue Grand Chef Thonnakona, Wendake | Map link 
Admission: Adults $33.75, children under 5 free, children 6-12 $18, teens 13-17 $25.74
Book on onhwalumina.ca | Find reviews on TripAdvisor.

Seafood board lunch at Restaurant La Traite at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations.

Flavours, nature, and adventure in Wendake

A taste of Indigenous cuisine

Wendake’s culinary scene is rooted in its heritage. Among signature local dishes are segamité soup, made with the Three Sisters, wild game like deer and venison, and lake fish. 

The signature restaurant at the hotel is La Traite, which serves cuisine inspired by native knowledge and terroir. Every meal begins with bannock (indigenous frybread), with butter. On a sunny day, lunch in the garden terrace is the obvious choice. The lunch menu gets replaced by an all-day menu with a few regional tasting boards available alongside appetisers and snacks. During dinner, you can choose from à la carte and three or four-course tasting menus, optionally accompanied by wine. 

Nearby in the Wendake centre is Restaurant La Sagamité, known for its Yatista, a flaming game meat dish (literally set on fire at your table). This menu is quite robust with a lot of options across all categories, from fish to pizza to tartares. I chose to sit on the wraparound balcony, listening to the nearby waterfall while enjoying deer and elk medallions with seasonal wild berry jam.

Above: Deer and elk medallions and maple tart at Restaurant La Sagamité, Wendake. Below: Restaurant La Sagamité exterior.

Traditional experiences in Wendake

In addition to the multiple experiences offered by Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, visitors can go on a guided tour of Site Traditionnel Huron Onhoüa Chetek8e. This authentically reconstructed village is open year-round for a wide range of experiences. Guests can book craft-making workshops, tales and legends stories, canoe excursions, tomahawk throws, archery, and snowshoeing adventures. 

One of the biggest events, however, is the Wendake Pow Wow, taking place annually in June. The Pow Wow is a cultural gathering which brings together dancers, drummers, artisans, and visitors from numerous First Nations around the world. 

Longhouse interior at Musée des Premières Nations.

The great outdoors for adventurers of all levels

Once you’ve explored all of the hotel grounds, a slightly longer walking path to pursue is the Rally Ahaha’. This is an hour-and-a-half-long walk that goes through Wendake city centre, along nature paths, and past the Kabir Kouba Waterfall. Kabir Kouba is a 28-meter-wide and 42-meter-tall waterfall, set in a deep canyon, with multiple viewpoints from the top to the bottom. For another day, go further along the 48-km hiking trail following the river deeper into the region.

For those looking to get out on the water, Légaré Canoes, offers kayak and paddleboard rentals and lessons. The route follows a 20-km stretch of the Akiawenrahk River, proposing a different perspective on the land. 

Book directly to take advantage of flexible checkout and other perks at hotelpremieresnations.ca. Compare rate to: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com | Trivago

1. ︎

Indigenous Peoples who lived in the Great Lakes are often described as Iroquoian and included a group of nations: Haudenosaunee, Wendat, Neutral, Tionontati, Wenro, and Erie. The term Iroquoian is yet another word introduced by the French, the preferred terminology is Haudenosaunee, or “people of the longhouse” [source].

The post Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, a gateway to Wendake appeared first on Paths to Travel.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

The Vibe & Shared spaces

Though it does not look like much from the outside, Courtyard Sliema is beautifuly designed modern property. Guests are welcomed by a spacious lobby with tall ceilings, accentuated by gently lit white columns leading the eye to a cluster of lampshades. To the right of the registration is plenty of cafe-style seating, mixed-use benches and booths.

While the ground floor serves as a vacation gateway, the true leisure begins on the top floor. The Courtyard Sliema rooftop is where guests will find the hotel’s restaurant and outdoor pool. 

The hotel team are available for all and any assistance you might need, including booking local tours and excursions. G’Uniqo, where you will find every meal, looks out on the Mediterranean Sea. The dining room decor takes from the regional colours: sandy brown and sea blue, with splashes of white to balance things out. 

Out on the terrace, guests gather for lazy afternoons around the pool, tanning, reading, napping, or simply enjoying the endless vistas. G’Uniqo team services around the pool, offering guests hot and cold beverages and food from the restaurant menu.

On-site dinning 

Every meal at G’Uniqo restaurant has a handful of local dishes like Kisra Ħobż (sourdough with sundried tomatoes and goat cheese), Maltese sausages, Baked Gnocchi, and Rabbit Ravioli. Between pinsas, pastas, and burgers are larger maincourses like the Courtyard’s Signature Butcher’s Feast, chicken, steaks, fish of the day, and vegetarian options. 

The daily happy hour includes half-priced cocktails, which you can enjoy by the pool. Fresh milkshakes and shakes are also available and are perfect for a scorching rooftop afternoon. 

Inside the Suite 

The hotel has 151 rooms across nine floors. Each suite is thoughtfully decorated with plenty of space to store your things. The fridge is large enough to stock up on snacks (there is a grocery store nearby), while the coffee books on the shelf will speak to local history and food. 

Many of the rooms have narrow balconies, all rooms have at least a small sitting area and a desk. The suites are equipped with sofa beds, which will be opened and prepared as a bed on arrival. The Junior Suite has a large table which can be comfortably used for meals and family games. 

The room pictured is a Junior Suite with one king bed, an open sofa bed and a balcony

Pool & Fitness facilities 

In addition to the rooftop pool, guests also have access to a heated indoor pool, perfect for a rainy day. Robes and towels are provided, and in the corner is a small sauna. Near the pool is a spacious, fairly well-equipped fitness centre. This room has a weight rack, a couple of machines, and a row of cardio equipment. It does get rather hot down there, so the provided towels come in handy. Guests can also take advantage of spa services like massages and revitalising treatments. 

A few tours to prebook for your visit

Get 5% off if you use the GetYourGuide app to book with code KATERRYNA5

Courtyard by Marriott Sliema
Prices starting at €119 / $192 CAD for a standard king
WG74+JCW, L. Graham, Tas-Sliema SLM1712, Malta
Book directly with Marriott and don’t forget to collect the points. Compare rates to: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor | Hotels.com | Agoda

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Bath is a fairly small town which you can easily explore on foot. Roseate Villa Bath is located a scenic ten-minute walk from the city centre, through the iconic Pulteney Bridge. The villa overlooks the seven-acre Henrietta Park and has its own private garden. Mornings at the Roseate Villa begin with a peaceful view of the garden, or perhaps a stroll around it, if the weather permits. This neigbourhood is quieter than the city centre, an ideal setting for a prolonged breakfast or an afternoon tea break. Consistently voted as the traveller’s choice on TripAdvisor, Roseate Villa is an ideal weekend stay in Bath.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted by Roseate Villa Bath, which did not review or approve this story.

The Vibe & Shared spaces

The property encompasses two Victorian houses, converted into a boutique hotel. The structure has a historic character, noticeable from a distance. Separate from the main road by a brick fence, the Villa is surrounded by a tranquil private garden. A portion of the garden is used as the restaurant terrace during warmer months, while the more secluded area has loungers and sitting areas that guests can take advantage of. 

Immediately to the right of the front desk is The Henrietta Bar & Restaurant. Here, guests can enjoy a slow breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner. The restaurant is a destination, so this room fills with locals and tourists alike. 

Roseate Villa Bath is dog-friendly.

Bar & Restaurant 

The Henrietta Bar & Restaurant is split into two spaces, the bar and lounge and the main dining area. The hotel kitchen uses 95% fresh local produce, leaning on the SLOW philosophy: seasonal, local, organic, wholesome foods, keeping their carbon footprint to a minimum.

For breakfast, guests can opt for a continental breakfast or choose items from the kitchen menu. The continental breakfast includes hot and cold beverages, yoghurt, fruits, cereal, and freshly baked pastries. The kitchen menu is a selection of larger breakfast items like the Full English Breakfast, Eggs Benedict, and Avocado Toast, among other items. Kitchen sweets are decadent pancakes, which we strongly recommend trying. No vacation is complete without a mimosa, and Roseate’s version is the Buck’s Fizz. 

Afternoon tea is served in the main dining room and on the terrace in the summer months. Available Monday through Sunday, this is a quintessential English tradition brought to life in a historic space. Henrietta Restaurant & Bar offers one of the best afternoon tea experiences in the area. 

In the evenings, patrons gather at Henrietta to get a taste of modern European cuisine. The starter menu includes terrines, prawns, pickled and otherwise prepared vegetable dishes, and a seasonal salad. The mains range from seafood to steak and naturally includes an English pie. For dessert, there are baked treats and cheese options.

Inside the Suite

The villa has 21 rooms and suites, each with a slightly different or completely unique decor. Each luxurious room is a combination of vintage decor charm with sophisticated modern finishes. In the room, guests will find flat screen TVs, Hypnos beds, goose down duvets and Egyptian cotton linen, robes and yoga mats tucked away in the closet. Water, coffee, tea, and biscuits are ready for guests in the cabinet above the fridge cabinet.

Luxury Junior and The Hideaway suites have large luxurious bathrooms with chic bathtubs, separate showers, heated floors, and a double vanity. The rest of the rooms have comfortable modern showers with the same luxurious finishes and bath supplies.

The comfortable rooms with friendly decor begin to quickly feel like home. It is tempting to spend the morning with a cup of tea, looking out into the garden or cosy up on a chair with a good book. 

Luxury Junior Suite, Roseate Villa Bath, UK. Above: sitting area and reading material. Below: Suite bathroom, bedroom, and yoga mat.

Roseate Villa Bath
Rooms starting at £165 / $285 CAD for a classic double
Henrietta Rd, Bathwick, Bath BA2 6LX, United Kingdom
Book directly on roseatehotels.com to take advantage of special offers. Roseate Villa Bath offers a mix of packages that include various experiences across Bath. 
Compare rate to: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor 

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In 2020, necessity encouraged us to explore locally, changing not only our destination but our mindsets. We rediscovered the value of staying close to home and have slowly pivoted from chasing countries to chasing meaning, igniting the “Reawakening of Local Escapes.” This reawakening is more than just a travel trend – it’s a return to our roots. We are looking for a deeper connection to our homeland, choosing sustainability and locality. A place where luxury isn’t loud – it’s thoughtful. Where design, community, and the land itself converge to offer something rare: a way to feel alive, right here at home, in Ontario.

In search of this new kind of destination, we journeyed two-hours from Toronto to visit ReLive Retreat, a sustainable nature retreat located in the Grey Highlands of Ontario, Canada.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 

The discovery

Here, nestled in unspoiled nature, we found an oasis where design doesn’t overshadow nature, it complements it. Built with care and intention, ReLive Retreat currently offers five onsite stays, with seven more exciting concepts to come, each as unique as the landscape that surrounds them. Here, guests are invited to experience nature not as a backdrop but as a co-creator of comfort, peace, and inspiration.

The experience

Immersed in 72 acres of beautiful protected lands, this powered-by-nature property has a diversity of landscapes for guests to explore. Scenic hiking trails wind gently through ReLive’s forests, wetlands, and meadows, revealing thoughtfully placed reflection spots along the way.  A swaying hammock, shared wood-fired sauna and forest bath and outdoor lounges with picturesque views are just a few examples of these peaceful gems. A tranquil wilderness, guests are quietly reminded that luxury can mean connection or a safe space to breathe.

The Vision

In 2012, owners John Parker and Milena Vujanovic Parker set out on an adventure that would change their lives forever. Their vision: to create a space where nature and architecture respectfully conjoin. An escape where guests and their accommodations are immersed in the landscape that surrounds them. Unique in design, they envisioned a retreat that not only prioritised sustainability but ensured a low impact on the environment, without limiting architectural innovation. Thanks to Johnny and Milena’s mutual expertise in design and architecture, their dream began, and ReLive Retreat was born. A staycation idea for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, or those just looking for a peaceful reprieve.

The Stays

A unique stay oasis, ReLive Retreat offers five one-of-a-kind nature cabins, each with its own distinct charm. From The Spruce Peak nestled among a white cedar coniferous forest, to The Dream Capsule with uninterrupted views of the stars, every space is designed with intention. 

Minimal yet sophisticated these stays give tiny living a new meaning here in Ontario – spaces to reconnect and reflect throughout all the seasons. All accomodations offer private amenities to sleep, lounge, cook, eat, and bathe. In addition to the shared experiences, each unique stay has its own private fire pits, outdoor showers, and more. 

Johnny and Milena share a deep respect for the environment and its resources and are influenced by design practices, like biomimicry, to guide their developments. And as a result, the land helps choose the location and inspires the design of each new space.

The Design

The architectural structures at ReLive Retreat are the embodiment of Milena and Johnny’s vision. The towering 27-foot Spruce Peak A-Frame, for example, mirrors the trees with which it resides. Stretching above the canopy, this exposed Douglas Fir timber-frame embraces its perfectly positioned home. Centred in a triangle of 3 majestic spruce trees, the A-Frame faces east/west, allowing both natural air currents and the sun and moons lighting to flow through. This thoughtful positioning reduces the need for man-made alternatives. 

Johnny and Milena shared that the foundations are all above ground, screwed into the land with zero impact on the environment. And with minimal waste in mind, they utilised leftover construction materials, such as cut-offs from timbers, to build outdoor lounge chairs and other decor touches. Each stay at Relive Retreat is a reflection of the nature that surrounds them that emphasising an interconnection and respect for all of creation.

The Future

Milena and Johnny are as warm and welcoming as the designs they create. When asked what they have in mind for the next steps, they shared: 

 “All of our future designs will embrace nature and will be unique on their own. They will have their own pocket of land to belong within and will have the best current nature systems integrated for amenities and utilities. And they will embrace rhythms of built form. From the sphere, to the triangle, to the honeycomb, and beyond. Forms within nature, that radiated out into patterns that create unique expressions, shapes, forms, colours and full experiences.”

* * *

The retreat is more than a getaway – the reawakening of local escape at Re-Live Retreat in an invitation to slow down and disconnect. It’s an opportunity to support local and highlight sustainable travel for our future and we can’t wait to return as each new chapter of the vision unfolds.

About the author: Jennifer Logan
cultivatetraveling.com | @cultivatetraveling

jenzjourneys.com | @jenzjourneys | Tiktok | YouTube | Facebook | MuckRack

Jennifer is a freelance writer, former columnist and digital creator from the Greater Toronto Area. She is the travel expert on the TV show Inside Durham where she shares ideas and tips about unique stays, airline travel, bucket list adventures and more!

Jennifer enjoys speaking at conferences/ events about travel and social media and has a social media community of over 85, 000 across multiple platforms. She was also recent finalist for the prestigious Bessie Award “Collaboration of the Year.” a reflection of her dedication to her craft.

A licensed drone pilot and scuba certified Jennifer enjoys sharing travel from a variety of perspectives to inspire others to live life to its fullest.

The post The reawakening of local escapes with ReLive Retreat appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Hotel BonSol Resort & Spa is an eco-friendly property, located in Illetas on the southwest coast of Mallorca, Spain, a 20-30 minute drive from the Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), depending on the traffic. The resort was founded by the Xamena family in 1953 and is currently operated by its third generation. The BonSol theme is luxury with a vintage flair, which is exactly what you get on arrival, with fresh and renewed touches.

Yellow parasols might be the unintended mascot of the hotel, but attention to detail through intricate branding is everywhere: embossed on white tablecloths and yellow beach towels, printed on custom coasters, sweet treat packaging, and sparkling wine labels.

All images by Kateryna Topol.
This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This experience was hosted by Hotel BonSol, which did not review or approve this story.

Hotel BonSol Mallorca is a beach resort with a small sandy cove. The resort wraps around the water, with two other hotels picking up the rocky shore on each side. Everything you need can be found at the hotel, one of the many reasons families have been coming here for decades. “We’ve been coming here for 32 years, my kids basically grew up here,” an English woman shared with me unprompted at the pool bar over piña coladas. The resort is a family-friendly, full-service property offering babysitting, fresh flower deliveries, ironing and mending services, and access to on-premises medical staff.

“First visit?” a Scottish couple asked in the elevator, noticing the resort map in my hands. I nodded yes with a smile. “We’ve been coming here for seven years. You’ll find your footing around in no time,” she added, returning the twinkle.

By definition, Hotel BonSol is a boutique property. Cascading down towards the water, most rooms have a sea view. A ten-thousand-square-meter garden fills in the spaces between the buildings, pools, and other amenities. Heavy palm trees and other vegetation indigenous to Mallorca trails through the terrace gardens. Designed to reduce the hotel’s water consumption and support Mallorca’s natural ecosystem, the gardens are their own unique attraction. 

Spread across its many levels are the resort’s many amenities: tennis and squash courts, table tennis and billiard tables, and on the upper deck in a rainforest garden is mini golf. It takes no effort to lose track of time, and aside from knowing the time of your dinner reservation, the fluidity of time can be – and should be – easily embraced. 

Above: Various sitting areas on the first floor of Hotel BonSol. Below: Table tennis room.

Under the yellow parasole 

Looking at Hotel BonSol, the yellow umbrellas are at the forefront of most images. Their bright and welcoming appearance is naturally photogenic, dotting the seaside with colourful contrast. The yellow motif carries through in all beach accessories. Branded yellow beach towels are prepared for a day out in the room, folded inside a large BonSol beach bag. Stuffed with books, water, and sunblock lotion, the beach bag is a token of voluntary uniform embraced by the hotel guests.

Guests spread on sunbeds in layers around the sea, taking turns aimlessly floating in the ocean in the striped yellow tire beach floaties, stacked to the side of the beach steps. The hotel’s regulars find serenity by the shaded garden pool or up on the adults-only terrace. Rearranging furniture to their own liking for a full day of reading and relaxation. Having fully committed to a beach day, I took my turn out in the sea, letting the waves gently rock my yellow floaty across the cove.

A glimpse of the garden pool, beach steps with sunbeds layered on different levels, in the background are guest suites.
Last image, with the white roof, is the seaside restaurant, Cala Brugit.

Balance in paradise

In coastal environments like these, wellness comes naturally, but Hotel BonSol is also a Spa, so here, wellness is dialled up. Every weekday morning, guests are invited to join the in-house yoga instructor, Saraj Jane, for a yoga session out on the terrace. This spacious open-air yoga room looks out to the sea, creating an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and exercise. Both of which were high on my list after a 24-hour travel day. The hotel also offers occasional yoga retreats as complete wellness packages, and the next one is coming up in October (23-26, reservation by email). 

Tucked away near the small gym is Nirvana Spa, available by appointment. Here guests can access a sauna, sanarium, Turkish baths, footbaths, and a jacuzzi, in addition to a full massage services menu. Modelled after a Moroccan wellness centre, this area is a great place to escape from your escape.

Romanticising dinner

Strongly encouraged to make a dinner reservation upon arrival, I opted for the main dining room, Las Antorchas Restaurant. As the main restaurant and a local dining destination, Las Antorchas has a dress code and live entertainment. Throughout the evening, a piano player accompanied by a talented vocalist, set the mood for a tasteful evening, surrounded by live flowers and white table cloths.

This particular evening, Chef Mr. Egea prepared a special tasting menu featuring seasonal selections. My dinner lineup began with an anglerfish and mussels cream soup, poured over the fish at the table. This dish was decadently light and delicious, despite its typically heavy composition. My second course, a shrimp cocktail, arrived paired with Can Axartell Blanc-Premsal Blanc, a typical Mallorcan grape, crisp and refreshing. 

Options for the main included four types of protein: hake, sirloin, duck, and lamb. The BonSol-style Wellington sirloin called my name. The sirloin medallion came with a side of vegetables and a flaky wellington pastry, nested on a shallow pool of juicy steak sauce. For the wine pairing, MX ∞ Edición Especial 80 Aniversario D. Martín Xamena, an organic red wine with aromas of dark fruit and minerality in the background, perfectly capturing the essence of Mallorca.

Morning and afternoon meals are served on the beach at the Cala Brugit restaurant or in the Winter Garden on the first floor. Cala Brugit restaurant (open April – October, weather permitting) overlooks the beach and offers guests a la carte or buffet lunch options. The half-board meal plan at the hotel includes breakfast and a choice of lunch or dinner, encouraging guests to try other nearby restaurants. 

Throughout the day, beachgoers flock to the Gala Brugit pool bar, tucked away by the larger pool, to order tropical cocktails and cold beers. People looking for afternoon aperitifs, nightcaps, and a cooler atmosphere gather at the Piano Bar. This space, located directly to the right of the main entrance, is a gorgeously decorated lounge with a spacious terrace, adorned with colourful flowers. In the middle of the summer, however, the heat made it nearly impossible to sit outside, but on a cool fall afternoon, this terrace would be a dream.

Home away from home

There are 73 rooms at Hotel BonSol, spread across various levels of the resort, looking into the garden or facing the sea. All rooms are spacious, thoughtfully decorated, and have at least a small balcony (Classic Double). The room that took my breath away, however, is the Family Suite. This large hotel room has a full-size bedroom with a sitting area, a living room, and a private terrace with sun loungers. The two bathrooms allowed us each to have a personal vanity, while the living room was ideal for late-night catch-up and inevitable remote work.

Two small TVs are available in both rooms, but with a view like that, accompanied by the sounds of nature and the star-dotted sky, turning them on felt unnecessary. Every morning began with a moment on the terrace, looking at the sea, setting a calm mood for the day.

Everything is green

The hotel’s commitment to the environment is particularly noticeable in the guest suites. All guests are encouraged to be conscientious with the use of electricity and AC, thoughtful with water consumption, and use of towels. The shower runoff water is reused to flush the toilets. Much of the electricity is gathered with solar power, one of Hotel BonSol’s many environmental initiatives. 

Three euros from each guest booking is dedicated to the upkeep of 220,000 teak trees Xamena family planted in Costa Rica in 2005, to make up for the air travel impact of their international guests. 

Leaving the resort

Illetas is a resort town, close to other resorts, public beaches, and family restaurants serving fresh fish and cold Spanish wine. If a city day out is on your agenda, a bus just outside one of the main street entrances will take you directly to Palma de Mallorca (by bus: 45 min, by car: 30 min). 

Other beaches nearby: Main Illetas beach 500 meters away, Cala Comtessa 800 meters away, and Es Forti is 1050 meters away.

Getting to Mallorca

From Canada, all trips to Mallorca will have at least one stopover. Multiple airlines fly to the island with stopovers in various cities across Europe. If you are planning to visit multiple countries, consider booking a return trip to the major city with a side trip to Mallorca. For example, a return flight to London, England, paired with a return flight to Mallorca from there can be a cheaper and more flexible option than a combination stopover or an open-jaw flight. 

As of June 2026, Air Canada will introduce a new route to Palma de Mallorca (PIM) on board the new Airbus A321XLR. This flight also seems to include 1-2 stops, depending on the route.

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