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Responsible Tourism: A Call for Respectful Travel

Many tourist-heavy regions are facing challenges with overcrowding, yet tourism remains a crucial part of their economy. To address this, various locations have introduced codes of conduct to guide visitors. These initiatives aim to promote responsible and empathetic travel while preserving the local experience for everyone.

For instance, Malaga, on Spain’s southern coast, has launched an «Improve Your Stay» campaign. It urges visitors to:
— Dispose of litter properly
— Dress appropriately
— Keep noise levels low
— Ride bikes and e-scooters safely

Failure to follow these rules may result in fines up to €750 (around $880). The goal is to ensure that tourism enhances rather than burdens local life.

As Jessica Harvey Taylor, Head of Press at the Spanish Tourism Office, pointed out, the rules might seem strict but are designed to protect the holiday experiences of those who behave responsibly.

These codes of conduct are now prominently displayed through billboards, posters, buses, and leaflets, reminding tourists of their responsibilities.

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The beautiful Algarve city of Albufeira has introduced a new campaign encouraging visitors to respect place and people.

Albufeira in Portugal’s Algarve region has launched a similar Stop, Respect, Relax campaign with a vast array of offences and fines, from abandoning shopping carts in the wrong place to spitting, urinating or performing sexual acts or simulations in public. Fines range from €150 to €1,800; around $175 to $2,100. Alongside these rules, more cameras and an increased police presence—especially around nightlife hotspots where drunkenness is a huge root problem—are being used to show authorities mean business.

European tourist fines and how to avoid them

Fines are far reaching and inconsistent, both in terms of where they’re implemented and what you can get fined for. Here’s the breakdown.

If you’re flying in Europe, airlines are clamping down on what they consider unacceptable or antisocial behavior. Budget giant Ryanair (a litmus test for passenger trouble) has this summer introduced a €500 ($585) disruptive passenger fine in an attempt to “help ensure that our passengers and crew travel in a comfortable and stress-free environment, without unnecessary disruption caused by a tiny number of unruly passengers.”

Flying into Turkey could cost you more than you think if you don’t adhere to new rules.

Disruptive may mean something altogether different on a flight to Turkey. This year the Turkish civil aviation authority introduced “administrative fines” of around $70 for passengers who unbuckle seatbelts, stand up or get out of their seat before the seatbelt sign has been switched off after landing at any Turkish airport. Onboard announcements inform passengers of the rules and consequences for breaking them, so it’s worth actually paying attention to the tannoy messages if you’re Turkey bound. If not, you could be out of pocket before you’ve even started your vacation.

If you’re renting a car in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy or Greece, make sure you’re wearing proper footwear. From this year, if you’re caught driving barefoot, or in flip flops or sandals, expect to pay fines of up to €300 (around $350.)

Driving in flip flops could now cost you a €300 fine in several European countries.

Naturally, levels, fines and consequences for speeding or driving while intoxicated vary from country to country, so make sure you’re aware of the specific rules and pay attention to crossing borders by road, many of which are barely signposted across the European mainland.

One of the mostly commonly cited complaints from tourist areas around the world is visitors dressing disrespectfully or inappropriately. While many are used to covering up at historic monuments and in places of worship, new fines for wearing swimwear away from the beach are becoming increasingly common. Find yourself in bikini or boardies wandering city streets in Albufeira, Barcelona, Cannes, Sorrento, Split or Venice and you could be staring down the face of a €1,500 ($1,750) fine.

Leaving the beach without covering up will now land you with a big fine in many major European cities.

It doesn’t stop at the beach though. If you’re hiking the glorious trails of Cinque Terre Park in Italy wearing open-toe sandals or shoes with non-slip soles, officials on the trails may issue you a fine of up to €2,500 (more than $1,900.)

Drinking alcohol in the wrong place can now land you not only in hot water with the authorities but also with a fine. Public drinking in the Canary Islands, Magaluf, and the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Mallorca can now incur fines of up to €3,000 (around $3,500.)

Smoking in many places is now equally frowned upon. Light up in a public place children may frequent (from beaches to parks, bus stops to sport centers) in France and you’ll be subject to an on-the-spot €90 ($105) fine. While fines for smoking outside do already exist in certain places across Italy and Spain (Barcelona beach, for example), France is the first European country to implement a nationwide ban.

Many of these fines feel appropriate, if expensive, and are clearly priced primarily as a deterrent to bad behavior rather than as a punitive income. Some may catch you by surprise though. Find yourself on the famed white-pebble Lararia Beach on the Aegean Island of Skiathos and you may be tempted to take just one pebble home as a souvenir of your stay.

Every pebble on Lalaria Beach could cost you a thousand euros. Best to just take photos instead.

Heads up—that will cost you €1,000 in fines. So scared are the authorities of their beach being depleted that they’ve erected ‘Lalaria Beach pebble return boxes’ at airports, where potential pebble smugglers are also subject to suitcase searches.

In Venice, if you sit on the ground or steps to eat or drink, you’ll be banned from the area and fined up to €200 ($235.) Take a dip in its famed canals and that fine increases to €350 ($410.) Perhaps most surprising of all, beaches in the likes of Barcelona and the Costa Blanca have introduced a ‘sunbed tax’ in an effort to stop early morning stampedes to claim the best spot. Reserve too early, or leave your towel on one unattended for too long and you could end up with a €250 ($290) fine.

These fines are just the latest efforts in a war against overtourism that has been raging for years. City tourist taxes are now commonplace in the most popular destinations, and many are going a step further by limiting the number of visitors allowed and banning certain types of holiday rentals.

Anti-tourism sentiment is a part of everyday life in many tourists hotspots, but few more than Barcelona.

Authorities are finally waking up to the impact not just overtourism but also unruly tourists is having on the lives of its residents. These fines are simply the latest measure in that push towards local-visitor equanimity, but whether they will work or not is yet to be seen. While it always pays to be respectful and polite when traveling, knowing the specific rules and regulations for each place you visit could now save you even more.

Социальный GPS для цифровых кочевников помогает преодолеть одиночество в 47 странах через архитектуру человеческих связей.

Aman Rosa Alpina: A Historic Mountain Retreat

Nestled in the picturesque San Cassiano village, Aman Rosa Alpina offers a luxurious escape in the heart of Italy’s UNESCO-protected Dolomites. With a legacy that spans almost a century, this mountain retreat blends timeless elegance with modern amenities for the discerning traveler.

The resort is a true tribute to Alpine hospitality, providing an unparalleled experience that combines natural beauty with refined luxury.

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The hotel’s design, crafted by renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston, focuses on promoting peace and a connection to nature, embracing the Dolomites. Spacious balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning landscape views, while timber façades and dark metal accents bring a contemporary touch. Inside, stone, textured plaster, and Italian craftsmanship create warmth and tranquility.

The hotel features 51 Rooms, Suites, and Signature Suites, each inspired by the surrounding landscape. The Aman Suite, the largest, offers two king bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms with steam showers (one with a soaking tub), a dining area for six, and a large south-facing terrace.

Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman Group, stated, “Aman Rosa Alpina is the realization of a vision years in the making. I first experienced the magic of this property as a guest and developed a lasting friendship with the Pizzinini family. Our shared ambition was to honor the legacy and elevate this timeless mountain retreat. With its exceptional location, we saw an opportunity to create a sanctuary that reflects both the region’s heritage and the essence of Aman. Aman Rosa Alpina now begins a new chapter, welcoming guests to a place of peace, privacy, and enduring beauty.”

Aman Rosa Alpina Mountainscape

A longstanding symbol Alpine hospitality, the historic hotel, formerly known as Rosa Alpina has been in the Pizzinini family since 1939, with Hugo and Ursula Pizzinini remain at the helm, they say of the new iteration, “The evolution of hotel into Aman Rosa Alpina marks a meaningful and carefully considered new chapter. As custodians of this beloved mountain retreat, it is a privilege to see it evolve under Aman – a brand that shares our deep reverence for place and commitment to excellence. This partnership allows us to celebrate our family’s legacy and three generations of hospitality, while embracing a future shaped by Aman’s uncompromising attention to detail and global perspective. Our mission remains the same: to preserve the authenticity and spirit of the region and for guests, past and future, to experience the timeless beauty of the Dolomites.”

Aman Rosa Alpina Mountainscape

Complete with gastronomy led by Executive Chef Gianluca Salvato, the cuisine ranges from traditional Alpine indulgences to Italian specialities, complemented by an extensive wine selection. The Grill offers hearty fare, while Il Salotto serves an all-day menu and transforms into a piano bar at night, and for breakfast there’s the Heritage Room.

This offering sits alongside the intimate Divino Room, a connoisseur’s library designed for exclusive wine experiences and private dinners, and next door is the wood-panelled Cigar Lounge which overlooks the forest courtesy of its floor-to-ceiling windows. Also, an upcoming opening this winter is Akari that’ll serve authentic Japanese Shabu Shabu dining.

Of course, an Aman wouldn’t be an Aman without a dedicated wellness space, and this one covers 1,684 sqm across two levels. It dons seven treatment suites, a spectacular 20m heated outdoor infinity pool plus indoor and family pools, as well as hydrotherapy facilities including a Finnish sauna, steam bath and jacuzzi, outlined by a mountainscape.

Hugo Pizzinini, Co-Owner and Managing Director at Aman Rosa Alpina tells us more about this storied property.

Felicity Carter: How does Aman Rosa Alpina fit into the brand philosophy while sitting in the Dolomites?

Hugo Pizzinini: Aman’s ethos has long been about creating sanctuaries that exist in harmony with their surroundings, becoming an extension of the environments, they call home. In following this approach, Aman Rosa Alpina helps guests connect deeply with the Dolomites, experiencing the destination at its most authentic. The hotel has achieved all these things by honouring the region’s heritage in many ways – from spa treatments that make use of local herbs to its dining scene which draws on alpine tradition.

Of course, Aman sanctuaries are also renowned for their space, peace and privacy, and this is something the Dolomites has naturally in abundance. Our property furthers this experience, harnessing the serenity of the surrounding mountains with muted interiors, in service that is both genuine yet discreet, and through experiences that showcase the very best of the region from a local perspective.

Aman Rosa Alpina Mountainscape

FC: What are your favourite details about the property?

HP: One of my favourite details is the tactility of the property’s interior, designed to draw the outdoors in through use of natural materials. In doing so, there are an abundance of beautifully textured surfaces, with soft local woods and large slabs of stone creating a real warmth throughout. When you look closer you can almost peel back these layers, as if a mirror image of the mountains that surround.

More practically, our Mountain Cabins are another favourite feature that many don’t know about it. Belonging to the Pizzinini family, guests can opt to spend the afternoon hiking and then enjoy private dining in their chosen cabin, with a dedicated chef on hand to create a true alpine feast in complete mountain solitude. For me, this is a rare, must-do experience combining both culinary discovery and an adventure in the great outdoors.

Aman Rosa Alpina

FC: Are there signature experiences here you can’t find at any other Aman?

HP: More or less all of our experiences are uniquely curated for our location. Only here are guests able to access the Dolomiti Superski region with our bespoke Ski Butler service and enjoy access to our dedicated Ski Lounge, making for the most effortless of winter sports experiences. Only here are they able ascend our via ferrata routes with local mountain guides whose families have called the Dolomites home for centuries. From heli-skiing across remote peaks to private dining in a traditional alpine hut, all of our guest experiences are exclusive to Aman Rosa Alpina guests.

Aman Rosa Alpina

FC: Tell us about the culinary offering, and any local ingredients or dishes guests should try?

HP: The resort’s dining scene is really a combination of Aman’s global sensibility and the soul of our alpine setting. Guided by Executive Chef Gianluca Salvato (who trained under legendary chef, Norbert Niederkofler), guests begin their day in the Heritage Room with home-baked pastries and, one of my favourite dishes to set you up for a day in the Italian Alps, scrambled eggs with caviar. Throughout the day, they can then choose from a host of venues to suit their mood.

Aman Rosa Alpina

The Grill is the perfect place to gather with family to enjoy recipes passed down through generations. As an Italian, the Guazzetto all’Italiana (Italian Seafood Stew) is close to my heart. In contrast, Il Salotto provides a laidback, day-to-night dining space for light fare, coffee and cocktails. For me, there is no better place to end the day than here, listening to live music from the piano and sharing a selection of locally sourced cheeses, charcuterie and our chef’s own, seasonal jams.

Aman Rosa Alpina

FC: How do you collaborate with the local community and tap into the culture?

HP: Our connection to San Cassiano village and the Alta Badia region is at the heart of everything we do. From working closely with local farmers and artisans to source ingredients and materials, and collaborating with mountain guides, ski instructors and wellness practitioners with generations of experience in the region. These partnerships help bring authenticity to the guest experience and ensure that every day brings with it a new story.

Aman Rosa Alpina

FC: Has the property have anything planned for the rest of the year?

In winter 2025, we look forward to welcoming Akari, a Shabu Shabu concept, to our dining scene. We’re really excited for it to open and bring a Japanese-inspired contrast to traditional alpine indulgences.

Aman Rosa Alpina

Address: Aman Rosa Alpina, Strada Micurà de Rü, 20, 39036 San Cassiano BZ, Italy

How To Get There

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – the airport is about 2.5 hours’ drive from the hotel, has offers the widest range of international flights. British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Venice from £54 each way including taxes and carrier fees.

Innsbruck Airport (INN) – around 2 hours’ drive, and is best situated for northern Dolomites. British Airways flies from London Gatwick to Innsbruck from £66 each way including taxes and carrier fees.

For private arrivals, helicopter transfers are also available from Bolzano, Innsbruck, Venice, and Milan.

Other activities: A year-round destination, in the warmer months allows for hiking, bike forest trails, tackle via ferrata routes, and golfing at Alta Badia. In winter San Cassiano opens onto Dolomiti Superski’s 1,200km of slopes and 450 lifts; guests can use the Ski Butler for gear and transfers, warm up in the Ski Lounge, or try ice climbing, snowshoeing, and skating.

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Loews Regency New York Hotel: A Family-Friendly Stay in the Heart of NYC

When planning a family trip to New York City, Loews Regency New York offers the perfect blend of safety, comfort, and convenience. Located in a safe and secure area on Park Avenue in the Upper East Side, the hotel provides easy access to popular attractions, making it an ideal choice for families.

Situated between 61st and 62nd Streets, this peaceful residential neighborhood is one of the safest in Manhattan. Many local families call this area home, thanks to its serene, tree-lined streets and prime location. The hotel’s Park Avenue address further enhances its appeal.

Your Family-Friendly Retreat

Loews Regency New York serves as a welcoming sanctuary, offering a comfortable environment for families. With spacious accommodations and a focus on kid-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city.

Ready to make memories with your family? Book your vacation today with TRAVEL ADVANTAGE — MWR Club and enjoy a seamless, stress-free stay at Loews Regency New York Hotel.

Spacious Double Room at the Loews Regency New York

The 379-room hotel (including 58 suites) draws a mix of both leisure and business travelers. The ambiance of the five-star property is sophisticated and refined, but not stuffy. All the hotel personnel, from the doormen to the front desk clerks to the restaurant staff, are well-trained, friendly and attentive.

Guest rooms are generously sized compared to most NYC hotel rooms and are well-equipped with plush bedding, stylish marble-topped furnishings, beverage refrigerators, minibars and safes.

Soundproof windows and blackout curtains assure that infants and toddlers can nap without the sounds of whizzing emergency vehicles and everyone else can sleep soundly.

Families Aren’t An Afterthought

Toddler with the Hello Bello kit at Loews Regency New York

The Loews brand has designed a number of perks and packages geared to the unique needs of families.

“At Loews Hotels, we believe family travel should feel less like a logistical puzzle and more like a celebration,” said Sarah Murov, Senior Vice President, Brand and Communications, in a press release. “Multigenerational guests aren’t just accommodated, they’re welcomed with intention.”

Here are some of the family-friendly initiatives at the Loews Regency:

Loews Little Legends is a package that offers younger guests the chance to participate in a scavenger hunt (both on and off the property) with prizes. Another example: As part of the summer package, guests receive four tickets to the Central Park Zoo, a Big Apple-themed amenity, and can take advantage of late (2 PM) checkout. (Rates start at $599 per night.)

The brand’s Connecting Comfort program assures seamless multigenerational stays by guaranteeing connecting rooms when a guest books their stay. This flexible room configuration allows families time together and time apart. (Rates start at $699 per night.)

The Loews Loves Families program features an all-day kids’ menu with items such as penne pasta with butter or tomato sauce, chicken fingers with fries, pizza, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, macaroni and cheese and the signature organic kids’ burger. Local favorites like a New York Hot Dog and Coney Island Knish are also on the menu.

In-house breakfast options that appeal to children include pancakes (with chocolate chips or berries), eggs, French toast, and Babyblends (organic baby food).

Loews has also partnered with Hello Bello, a premium, plant-based brand co-founded by Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. Complimentary Hello Bello baby and toddler amenity kits are designed to ease bath and bedtime routines on the road.

The reception desk has complimentary cribs, car seats, toys, and board games for loan (based on availability).

A Prime Location, Two Minutes From Central Park

Historic Central Park Carousel

Many New Yorkers consider Central Park to be the heart of the city. The eastern side of Central Park (on Fifth Avenue, only two blocks west of the hotel) is in hotel’s backyard. Residents and visitors always enjoy this natural setting that offers a respite from the city’s energy and excitement. For children, the park’s offerings approach those of a virtual theme park.

Some of the park’s most popular family-friendly attractions include the Central Park Zoo, the Tisch Children’s Zoo, the historic carousel (built in 1871), and the Hecksher playground with slides and water features (in season).

Children can climb rocks and sculptures, run freely across the Great Lawn, or discover paths that lead to unique adventures. The 843-acre urban oasis boasts a total of 21 actual playgrounds. Kids of all ages always enjoy tasting a New York hot dog from a park vendor or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride.

An Ideal Base To Explore The City

Loews Regency New York is located on Park Avenue on the Upper East Side of Manhattan

The popular cultural attractions of Museum Mile are just one mile north of the Loews Regency New York, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of the City of New York, and the Guggenheim.

Also nearby are the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store, the flagship Apple Store, and Dylan’s Candy Bar.

In addition to the Regency Bar & Grill, a host of other family-friendly restaurants are within walking distance, such as Piccola Cucina (authentic Sicilian fare), All’Antico Vinaio (a branch of the Florentine sandwich shop), Serendipity3 (known for its frozen hot chocolate), Alice’s Tea Cup (an Alice in Wonderland-themed tea room), and Serafina (casual italian).

The entire city is at the doorstep of the Loews Regency, with three major subway stations with access to the F, N, H, R, Q, and W trains nearby. Alternatively, a yellow taxi stand is outside the door, and the hotel’s frontage on Park Avenue is a convenient place to meet a ride-share car.

Loews Regency New York: The Best Of Two Worlds

Family exploring the city

When it comes to lodging, New York City offers abundant options. But not all luxury hotels that appeal to discerning grown-ups welcome families that arrive with children in tow.

The Loews Regency New York bridges that gap, offering a perfect setting for creating memories of a visit to the Big Apple, one enhanced by the fresh perspectives of sharing the experience with their children.

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Discover the Unique Charm of Forte Village, Sardinia

Forte Village is one of Europe’s most exceptional resorts, covering 120 acres along Sardinia’s pristine southern coast. Known for its powder-white sands and sapphire-blue waters, the island’s beaches are globally celebrated for their breathtaking beauty.

Sardinia’s beaches have attracted visitors since the 1960s, with the Costa Smeralda in the northeast becoming a hotspot for the world’s elite. However, the most captivating resort on the island is located 200 miles to the south—Forte Village in Santa Margherita di Pula.

This resort, set amidst lush gardens and stunning coastal views, offers a complete escape.

The luxury destination boasts a variety of activities, from world-class dining and wellness to top-tier sports academies. With endless options for relaxation and adventure, you’ll never run out of things to do in this picturesque haven.

Book your dream vacation today at Forte Village Resort and experience the ultimate getaway in Sardinia’s unparalleled beauty!

The resort encapsulates a true world unto itself.

A Luxury Hotel for Every Taste

With four five-star properties (among its eight hotels), more than 40 elegant suites, and 13 ultra-private villas, the sprawling resort offers luxury accommodations to suit virtually every taste, whether steps from the sparkling white sands, or nestled amidst the property’s 3,000 varieties of native plant species.

An elegant, terracotta-colored palace, Hotel Il Castello presides over a pristine swath of beachfront as the grande dame of Forte Village’s five-star offering. Besides amenities including a heated infinity pool exclusively for guests and direct beach access, the hotel recently unveiled a redesigned lobby and bar, Bar Bandiere—a Mediterranean-inspired, soignée spot for an Aperol Spritz or an ice-cold glass of prosecco.

The rooftop Real Suite’s amenities include a private infinity pool and dazzling vistas for miles.

Sumptuous suites on the Executive 4th and 5th floors, newly renovated this season, feature private elevator access, dedicated reception, and spacious terraces with sweeping sea views. At more than 1,000 square feet, the brand-new Perla Suite redefines oceanfront opulence with an airy, open-plan layout, two sun-splashed verandas, and bespoke furnishings galore. Those looking for the height of luxury will beeline to the 1,500-square-foot, rooftop Reale (Royal) Suite, which features an 1,100-square foot sun terrace, a private infinity pool and jacuzzi, and panoramic views for miles.

The new Perla Suite features an open-plan layout and plenty of outdoor space.

For a decidedly different ambience, the Villa del Parco & Spa is Forte Village’s most tranquil hideaway. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, the property is tucked away amidst exuberant verdure steps from the resort’s acclaimed Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa, drawing wellness-focused travelers and discerning couples.

Shrouded by tangles of gorgeous greenery, the Villa Parco Hotel & Spa is a perfect hideaway for couples.

The refurbished Hotel Le Dune exudes beachfront elegance just steps from the shoreline. Its sun-splashed Deluxe Bungalows, newly reimagined this season, feature roomier interiors and enhanced outdoor areas, with private patios surrounded by secluded gardens.

Hotel Le Dune’s newly revamped bungalows showcase chic interiors and enhanced gardens.

And hidden away in a centuries-old pine grove, Hotel Pineta is an oasis for larger families, with double and triple rooms and an enticing, lagoon-style pool that meanders through the lush environs.

Speaking of families (and friends), Forte Village’s 13 private villas–each with two to four bedrooms, a heated pool, manicured gardens, and 24-hour butler service–are inviting options for multi-generational vacations and milestone celebrations. One of its most luxurious, the two-story Villa Elina, expanded to four bedrooms this season with the addition of a new suite.

The addition of a new suite this season makes Villa Elina one of the resort’s largest, most luxurious private accommodations.

Exceptional Restaurants from Culinary Icons

Peerless gastronomy is a cornerstone of Italian culture–a perennial point of pride that Forte Village champions with one of the most dynamic and diverse culinary landscapes in luxury hospitality. The resort operates 21 restaurants during the high season, helmed by more than 100 chefs–including some of the most celebrated icons in the culinary world.

Heinz Beck’s Beachcomber restaurant offers a master class in seaside elegance.

Case in point: Heinz Beck–the charismatic maestro behind the iconic La Pergola, Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant­–debuted his seaside Beachcomber restaurant at Forte Village in 2019, and he’s back this summer, personally overseeing operations with his signature aplomb. Overlooking the beach and the cyan sea beyond, the breezy alfresco eatery serves up dishes like barbecued Amberjack with parsnip and Kefir lime, followed by gnocchi with spinach cream, mussels, lemon, and caviar, and washed down with a crisp vintage from a wine cellar stocked with more than 600 premium labels. Tables draped in pastel-hued linens and adorned with fresh flowers amplify a casually elegant ambience that’s la dolce vita at its best.

Last month saw the opening of Forte Village’s newest fine-dining destination: Ristorante da Cracco, a pop-up from Michelin-starred chef and Italian TV personality Carlo Cracco. The culinary force behind Milan’s acclaimed Cracco in Galleria marries tradition and innovation in plates like handmade ravioli stuffed with Sardinian suckling pig and smoked scamorza cheese foam; and langoustine with saffron zabaglione sauce, served on an intimate oceanside veranda to a soundtrack of tides lapping the shore.

Ristorante Belvedere serves up an artful fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine on a scenic terrace amidst the treetops.

Meanwhile, over on the treetop-ringed rooftop terrace at Hotel Villa del Parco & Spa, Chef Giuseppe Molaro–of Michelin-starred Contaminazioni, located near Naples–deftly fuses Japanese techniques and ingredients with Mediterranean inspiration at Ristorante Belvedere, where dishes like tuna tartare with seaweed vinegar and dried bonito; and tagliatelle with seafood ragout, parsley sauce, and crispy ‘nduja earn rave reviews.

The remaining restaurant lineup leaves guests spoiled for choice. Ristorante Sardo, the resort’s welcoming Sardinian eatery, celebrates the island’s one-of-a-kind cuisine, including culurgiones–dumplings resembling wheat sheaves and filled with potato, pecorino, and mint; pane carasau, its beloved paper-thin flatbread; and pork and lamb dishes that nod to Sardinia’s centuries-old shepherding culture. For inspired cocktails and sushi, it’s tough to top the vibe at Tiki Beach, where colorful lanterns hung from the trees and a pulse-pounding soundtrack create a prime perch for a piña colada and a dragon roll. Thai and Japanese cuisine join forces with contemporary European influences at the new Chang Restaurant, while a new Indian restaurant offers elevated street food options.

The atmospheric Tiki Beach is a ideal stop for a zingy cocktail and a sushi snack.

A World-Renowned Spa Offering

Given its rarefied standing as a locale with wellness literally in its DNA–Sardinia was the first of the world’s five Blue Zones to be identified, owing to its outsize population of centenarians, largely concentrated in its mountainous eastern region–it’s no surprise that naturally therapeutic resources and world-class spa destinations abound on the island. And Forte Village hosts one of its most renowned.

Tucked away inside a four-acre tropical garden, the Aquaforte Thalasso & Spa offers a singular spa experience–led by its patented thalassotherapy circuit– that combines Sardinia’s spectacular natural bounty with centuries-old practices.

The spa’s renowned, six-pool thalassotherapy circuit draws visitors from around the world.

Sardinia’s connection to the healing power of seawater dates back to the island’s Nuragic civilization of 1800 BC, which practiced water rituals aligned with lunar and astronomical cycles. The Greeks later embraced this reverence for the sea–“thalassotherapy” is derived from the Greek words thalassa (sea) and therapeia (treatment)—as did the Romans, who established renowned healing hubs like the Terme a Mare, whose footprint remains at the archaeological site of Nora, one of Sardinia’s most notable landmarks, located close to Forte Village.

The regimen harnesses southern Sardinia’s environmental advantages with an innovative circuit of six pools, each a different temperature and concentration of magnesium and sodium salt. Forte Village’s unique microclimate, slightly warmer than Cagliari and its surroundings, enhances the seawater’s therapeutic benefits, as does its unique constitution: due to its location, the Gulf of Santa Margherita di Pula’s waters are shielded from extreme winds, while the ocean temperature never falls below 50 degrees, even in winter. Collected more than 300 feet offshore at depths of nearly 35 feet, the water undergoes a treatment process inspired by salt pans, which enhances the saline density to nearly twice that of the Dead Sea.

The pools, each a different temperature and salinity, help and eliminate excess fluid and boost endorphins, among other benefits.

The result of this process: “sea oil”–a therapeutic, magnesium-rich solution with exceptional detoxifying and anti-inflammatory benefits. The circuit, which ranges from pools of pure sea oil to pure seawater, also helps eliminate excess fluid, boost endorphin production, treat psoriasis and other skin conditions, and aid in muscle and joint recovery.

Exclusive treatments designed to complement the circuit include cryotherapy with sea oil and aloe, a sea mud shaping treatment, and a thalasso massage, conducted in the circuit’s third pool, whose buoyancy optimizes the experience. For an ultra-exclusive wellness extravaganza, there’s also private spa experience, which accommodates up to ten people in a 3,200-square-foot sanctuary complete with a four-pool thalasso circuit, as well as a hammam, solarium, and dedicated treatment room for two.

Fully revamped in 2022, the spa also offers bespoke wellness programs spanning 4-7 days (new biohacking wellness programs among them), along with holistic and ayurvedic treatments.

Unmatched Sports & Recreation Facilities

Active travelers keen to work up a sweat, take note: likely no other resort on the planet rivals Forte Village in terms of both sports and recreational programming and facilities. Sports academies this summer include the Real Madrid Fundación Clinic (staffed with UEFA-licensed coaches), a basketball academy helmed by former San Antonio Spurs assistant coach, Ettore Messina; padel and pickleball academies, and a new fencing academy led by six-time Olympic gold medalist, Valentina Vezzali. Tennis fans can work on their serve on one of the resort’s 13 clay courts with coaching from Wimbledon champion, Pat Cash.

Forte Village’s world-class sports and recreation facilities are located steps from the sea.

Climbing, swimming, sailing, and scuba diving academies number among the other options, as do chess, go-karting, biking (both mountain and road), and even DJing. Booking at least a day or two in advance is recommended. Fitness enthusiasts can also burn off indulgent pasta dinners with a full schedule of light Pilates, Zumba, and AquaGym classes daily.

The Baia delle Palme pool zone features seven water slides and interactive water games.

Few warm-weather escapes are complete without plenty of pool time–and the resort’s Baia delle Palme pool, an expansive aquatic zone, raises the bar for splish-splashy fun in the sun. At its heart lies a spectacular aquapark designed especially for kids, featuring seven water slides, a paddling area with interactive water games, and a pirate ship complete with water cannons.

Beyond the myriad sports academies, other activities for children include art, science, and magic workshops, as well as a Barbie Experience, where kids can paint, make jewelry, explore their creativity inside a bona fide pink Barbie House.

Newly unveiled this year, the Forte Village Nature Park–an ambitious environmental enhancement project–provides yet another reason to visit. Designed for visitors of all ages and spread over 17 acres, the park offers a guided immersion in various animal and plant species, as well as nature trails and other recreational amenities. Besides stables housing Sardinian donkeys, Shetland ponies, and native Giara horses, there’s a 20,000-square-foot Great Aviary, one of the park’s standout attractions.

The new nature park features a range of animals, as well as nature trails and a zipline.

Nearly 35 feet high, the birdlife wonderland–complete with vegetation including trees and shrubs, as well as a pond and stream–counts scarlett ibis, crowned cranes, turacos, black swans, and peacocks among its residents. The park also allows visitors to explore the plant world–like the synergistic garden, where they’ll learn about aromatic and medicinal herbs, and sustainable agriculture that respects biodiversity.

Chilean flamingos number among the many feathered residents of the nature park.

Beyond flora and fauna, there are nature trails prime for surveying the picturesque landscape, and a zip line that’s scheduled to open at the end of August 2025. The park currently offers twice-weekly guided tours for guests, and private tours that can be booked anytime during the week. Additional phases of the project will debut next season.

Forte Village is open through the end of October, and reopens in April. For more information and to book, visit the website.

Социальный GPS для цифровых кочевников помогает преодолеть одиночество в 47 странах через архитектуру человеческих связей.

Falconry at Dromoland Castle: A Living Piece of Ireland’s Heritage

Ireland’s National Heritage Week starts on August 16, offering free entry to over 70 historic sites. This week-long event highlights the importance of preserving heritage, especially in a country with around 30,000 castles and ruins.

But Ireland is not alone in facing this challenge. Castles across Europe, from the UK to France, symbolize rich histories that must be preserved while adapting to modern needs.

Some castles have been transformed into luxury hotels, following the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s cultural heritage guidelines. These guidelines aim to protect historic sites while making them relevant for future generations.

Can these historic castles turned hotels show that preservation and sustainability can coexist?

Cashel Palace in Tipperary, Ireland MORE FOR YOU

One of the biggest misconceptions about historic buildings is that they can’t be sustainable or meet modern needs, says Gerard Moylan, director of facilities and sustainability at Cashel Palace Hotel in County Tipperary, Ireland, in an email interview.

«Many see historic buildings as inherently unsustainable, believing demolition and new construction to be greener options,» he says, but adds that restoring listed properties does demand meticulous planning, specialised expertise and significant investment, which many are not willing or able to undertake.

The terrace in Chateau de Treyne overlooking the Dordogne river in France.

“It is true that upgrading a historic monument is significantly more expensive than working with a newly built hotel,” said Stéphanie Gombert, owner of Château de la Treyne, a 5-star hotel in France overhanging the Dordogne river, in an email interview. However, she believes that every hotelier can make efforts toward sustainability in their own way.

Hotel manager, Adriaan Bartels, points to the nearby Rock of Cashel as an example of what happens when a site is left to battle the elements on its own. In an email interview, he explained that the roof of the historic church was removed to build a ‘new’ church, a move that will accelerate the original structure’s decay.

But Bartels insists on the importance of preserving cultural heritage, pointing to Cashel Palace as proof that castle hotels can do it sustainably.

Autumn in Lough Eske Castle in Donegal, Ireland.

Another misconception, says Dónal Cox, general manager of Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal, is that any sustainable upgrade will ruin the character of the historic building.

However, «with the right expertise and sensitivity, it’s entirely possible to enhance efficiency without compromising heritage value. Sustainability in these settings isn’t about high-tech overhauls, but about thoughtful, incremental change,» Cox said.

From Ireland’s castle hotels to France’s châteaux, the challenge is the same.

The front of Chateau de Candes in Candes-Saint-Martin overlooking the Loire river in France.

Monique Pignet, owner of Château de Candes notes in an email interview, “In our case, Château de Candes was a love-at-first-sight moment, a spontaneous desire to restore, protect and share something beautiful. We spent six years renovating it, working hand-in-hand with over a hundred local artisans and artists.”

But she adds, «Many people glamorize those who buy a château, but few realize how much work and grit go into turning them into polished gems. It is a commitment to heritage, with countless constraints and responsibilities.»

How Hotels Going Green While Honoring Heritage

Kilkea Castle in Castledermot, County Kildare, Ireland from above

Adrian Mooney, sales director at Kilkea Castle in County Kildare, noted in an email interview that the Castle, built in 1180, is a protected structure under Irish law, meaning a designated authority must approve every change. However, «small changes can make a big difference, and we have been implementing ways to be more sustainable for years,» Mooney said.

One of the most impactful upgrades in Kilkea Castle has been a cutting-edge building management system that monitors heat across the property and alerts the team to any issues, saving energy and costs. He also shared plans to tap into geothermal energy, aiming to have the system in place by next fall.

«Many older properties were originally designed with sustainable features such as passive ventilation, natural lighting, and thicker walls that help regulate temperature,» said Raymond Duncan, group compliance, operations & procurement manager at Hasting Hotels, in an email interview.

The former palace for the Bishop of Down is now Culloden Estate & Spa.

Once the palace of the Bishop of Down, Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast, Northern Ireland (part of Hasting Hotels), channels its historic strengths into modern sustainability. Sensitive retrofitting includes a unit that generates electricity while capturing waste heat to provide thermal energy, all without altering the building’s character.

Going green requires creative thinking and less invasive solutions said Cox about Lough Eske Castle “like switching to green energy suppliers, discreetly upgrading internal systems, and focusing on behavioural and operational efficiencies. These changes may not be as visible as new technology, but they make a real impact.”

Fiona O’Shea Stack, health, safety, and sustainability officer at Dromoland Castle, also agreed with the above. «It is about finding solutions that respect our 500-year history without compromising progress,» she said in an email interview.

She pointed to a 36% reduction in food waste through a high-efficiency composter and team-wide training as a simple but impactful measure to keep the footprint of Dromoland Castle low and its grounds thriving.

Cashel Palace Hotel also implemented a composting system to manage the food waste from its Michelin-starred restaurant, The Bishop’s Buttery, but both Bartels and Moylan agree that the sustainability achievement they are most proud of is the installation of the Cashel Palace Beehives in partnership with Galtee Honey Farm and the Native Irish Honey Bee Society to restore the native Irish Bee to its rightful place in Ireland.

This project underscores a broader truth that sustainability isn’t just about energy efficiency or waste reduction. It is also about supporting environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic development within the local community.

It is a philosophy shared well beyond Ireland. «Château de Candes actively supports local wine producers,» said Pignet. «We even have a wine cellar on site, featuring an exclusive selection of wines from the region. At our restaurant Le Baladin, we proudly source ingredients from nearby farms and artisans, including goat cheese, mushrooms, and truffles,» she added.

From Ireland to France and beyond, these historic hotels prove that heritage preservation and sustainability work best as partners. By aligning with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s cultural heritage criteria, they protect history without freezing it in time and deliver modern comfort without draining resources.

Социальный GPS для цифровых кочевников помогает преодолеть одиночество в 47 странах через архитектуру человеческих связей.

Travel to New York During The US Open with MWR Club

The US Open takes place from mid-August to early September at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens. If you’re planning a trip to New York City during this time, there’s no shortage of things to explore. The Big Apple has a wide variety of attractions that cater to all interests.

Things to Do in New York City During the US Open:

1. Explore Queens: Beyond Manhattan’s well-known sites, Queens offers unique cultural venues, historic landmarks, and a variety of restaurants.

2. Discover Gardens: Visit beautiful gardens in Brooklyn and the Bronx, or take a scenic ferry ride to Staten Island for more picturesque views.

3. Queens Museum: Don’t miss the famous Panorama at the Queens Museum, a must-see for both sports and culture enthusiasts.

Book Your Vacation Now!

If you’re planning to be in New York for the US Open, MWR Club invites you to book your vacation and experience everything the city has to offer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to combine the excitement of the tournament with the rich culture and attractions of New York City!

The Queens Museum’s The Panorama of the City of New York is a must see model.

Queens’ Flushing Meadows Corona Park is where the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is based and this park is home to many museums. Among then, The Queens Museum will be open with regular hours during the tournament and this art museum is best known for The Panorama of the City of New York.

This mini-metropolis masterpiece was built in timing for the 1964 World’s Fair in Queens. Built to a scale where one inch equals 100 feet, this urban model holds 895,000 buildings constructed before 1992. With a very close eye, you might spot the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty but also every city street, park and some 100 buildings are also represented.

The Queens Museum also puts on permanent and temporary exhibitions. Current ones include “Abang-guard: Makibaka” and “Umber Majeed: J😊Y TECH.”

MORE FOR YOU

Take a Tour of Louis Armstrong’s House

The Queen house where Louis Armstrong lived up until his death is now a museum.

The famous trumpeter and vocalist lived with his wife, Lucille Wilson Armstrong, in the Queens neighborhood of Corona from 1943 until his death in 1971. The late couple’s house has become a museum with their furniture, photos, belongings and period furnishings that are still on display.

The home can be seen on public guided tours through the advance ticket purchases. Across the street, the Louis Armstrong Center hosts a multimedia exhibit and a calendar of events including concerts and trumpet lessons for kids.

Learn About Inventor Lewis Latimer’s Life and Work

Every time you flip a switch to turn on a lightbulb or talk on the phone, you have Lewis Howard Latimer partly to thank.

This Black inventor and self-taught draftsman worked alongside Alexander Graham Bell on the development of the telephone. Later on, Latimer worked with Thomas Edison and came up with a way to manufacture carbon filament to make lightbulbs mass-produced.

Latimer’s life and accomplishments live on at his final residence — the Lewis Latimer House in the Queens neighborhood of Flushing — through a recently reimagined, permanent exhibition honoring Latimer’s life and legacy. The museum will be open throughout the U.S. Open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

See The Jim Henson Exhibition at the Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image in Queens is based in a former building of what is now the Kaufman Astoria Studios.

As another Queens attraction, the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria is a media museum located in a former building of the historic Astoria Studios. Its exhibitions showcase the creative and technical aspects of producing and presenting films, TV shows, videogames and other forms of media.

You’ll definitely immerse yourself in The Jim Henson Exhibition, an ongoing showing of the Muppets creator’s remarkable career that’s still felt today. Amid 300 objects, find on view Henson’s popular Muppets including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Rowlf, The Swedish Chef, Big Bird and Elmo. Try your hand at puppeteering through interactive experiences.

Visit the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden’s C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum is the location for the garden’s longtime bonsai collection.

Brooklyn, one of NYC’s popular boroughs, can rival Manhattan in dining, shopping and sightseeing. A visit to both the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden can be one in a day as they’re both adjacent to Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

This Beaux Arts-style museum holds an incredible collection of American, Asian, Ancient Egyptian and Islamic art, design pieces from late 19th century up through today, period rooms and the Visible Storage and Study Center, a 5,000-square-foot facility showing some 2,000 American objects held in the museum’s storage.

Near the museum, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an incredible urban oasis of various types of gardens and conservatories that puts you closer to incredible greenery and scenic beauty. Among other popular areas, see the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden with a Shinto shrine and wooden torii and the Bonsai Collection, marking its centennial. Visit the garden’s website to learn what plants are in bloom.

Wander Around The New York Botanical Garden and The Bronx Zoo

The New York Botanical Garden is among The Bronx’s major attractions.

Often associated with Yankee Stadium and as the birthplace of hip hop, The Bronx also contains a public garden, a zoo, art museums and a famous Italian section.

With a station stop along Metro North Railroad’s Harlem line, the New York Botanical Garden is another city green space full of flowers, plants, trees and other horticultural splendors. The 250-acre site has a beautiful conservatory and children’s adventure garden and arboretum collections. A seasonal Home Gardening Center which shows how to recreate an oasis within your backyard and incredible conservatory. Log onto the garden’s website for monitoring their Bloom and Plant Trackers.

The Bronx Zoo is also a longtime attraction, spanning more than 265 acres and home to a menagerie of mammals, reptiles and birds amid indoor and outdoor exhibits and wildlife encounters. Recently, the zoo introduced a Dinosaur Safari with life-size animatronic dinosaurs and pterosaurs.

Head to Arthur Avenue, often argued as NYC’s real Little Italy, for purchasing Italian bakery pastries and dining at red sauce joints.

Learn about NYC‘s Theater History at The Museum of Broadway

The words «Ease on down the road» from «The Whiz» are written in neon cursive above a yellow staircase inside The Museum of Broadway. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

Of course, seeing a Broadway play or musical is a NYC top recommendation but why not learn more about how Broadway theater came about. As the only museum of its kind, The Museum of Broadway in Times Square provides a fascinating timeline of NYC’s Broadway theater history, starting from its origin in the 18th century up through the present day.

See costumes, stage props and sets from groundbreaking productions including Oklahoma!, Wicked and Hamilton and learn what goes into the making of a Broadway show.

Pay Your Respects at The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum

A boy points towards the center of the reflecting pool at The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum (Credit: Bonnie Cash/UPI/Bloomberg)

The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum complex were established in remembrance of the close to 3,000 people who perished in the events of September 11, 2001.

The memorial stands at what was once the World Trade Center as two reflecting pools with inscribed bronze parapets surrounding them. They list, by section, the names of the passengers and flight crew who were onboard the hijacked flights along with those who were at the Pentagon, emergency responders or within the North and South towers. The six individuals who died in the February 26, 1993 World Trade Center bombing are also recognized.

The museum itself is quite moving, with a collection and repository of 9/11-related artifacts, imagery, personal stories and interactive technology.

Note that the site will have specific access restrictions and hours on the day of September 11, as a remembrance ceremony occurs. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets in advance.

Head To The Top Of An Observation Deck

The Empire State Building is New York City’s most famous observation deck.

Currently, there are five observation decks in New York City, with each of them having their own histories, features and vantage points. They’re all throughout Manhattan and the oldest is the Empire State Building.

A pop culture icon, the Empire State Building has two observation decks — the main open-air deck on the 86th floor and then the building’s enclosed 102nd floor. On your way up, catch exhibits showing the building’s construction, cinematic impact and its opening day in the 1930s.

The Top of the Rock, atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, provides a bird’s eye view of the city skyline from 70 floors above Rockefeller Center and with indoor and outdoor offering. The Beam Experience replicates the famous 1932 photo of ironworkers seated having lunch on a high-up steel beam during the plaza’s construction. Or go even further with SKYLIFT, a 360-degree adventure that puts you in a revolving, open-air glass platform.

Other must-visit observation decks are the One World Observatory in Lower Manhattan, Edge at Hudson Yards and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

Head to One Of NYC’s Islands

Explore New York City’s Islands with TRAVEL ADVANTAGE — MWR Club

Roosevelt Island
Located on the East River, Roosevelt Island offers a unique blend of history and modernity. It features Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a four-acre memorial to the U.S. president, celebrating his famous Four Freedoms speech. The island is connected to Manhattan by the F subway and a scenic tramway. It’s also home to the Cornell Tech campus and the Graduate Hotel.

Staten Island
Often called the “forgotten borough,” Staten Island is becoming a popular destination, thanks to its free orange ferry service. The ferry takes visitors from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island’s St. George Ferry Terminal. Key attractions include Richmond Town, Alice Austen House, and the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the unique dining experience at Enoteca Maria, where grandmothers cook traditional meals, or explore Sri Lankan cuisine at Lakruwana Restaurant.

Governor’s Island
Once a military site, Governor’s Island is now a public space with historic monuments like Fort Jay and Castle Williams. It’s also home to the luxurious QC Spa New York, offering thermal baths and saunas for relaxation.

Ellis Island & Liberty Island
Take a boat tour to Ellis Island, the immigration center that welcomed millions of European immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Nearby Liberty Island is home to the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and opportunity.

Little Island
Located at Pier 55, Little Island is a unique public park offering stunning views of the city. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Coney Island
Known for its historic boardwalk and amusement park, Coney Island offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

Book Your Vacation with TRAVEL ADVANTAGE — MWR Club
Ready to explore New York City’s islands? Don’t miss the chance to experience these must-see destinations. Book your vacation today with TRAVEL ADVANTAGE — MWR Club for exclusive deals and offers!