New Four Seasons jet trips, Hilton’s lemon waffles and other hotel news you missed
Don't ask me where May went, I truly don't know. This month was a wild one for this hotel reporter. It started with my own wedding here in New York City, followed by a honeymoon in Paris, and the chance to catch the first night of the European leg of Taylor Swift's "The Eras Tour." I then immediately joined a wonderful retreat with TPG's travel team in Washington, D.C.
As busy as my team and I were, we were still reporting the major hotel news of the month. A few of those stories include the news that the highly anticipated Regent Santa Monica is finally taking reservations, that Hard Rock International is rolling out a new loyalty program and that Airbnb is launching an entirely new "Category" of over-the-top stays.
In between the wedding bliss, long-haul flights, and lovely conversations with my team, I was collecting some smaller tidbits of news that I think all of you hotel lovers would like to know about. Here's the hotel news you might have missed in May.
IHG is opening three new hotels in Turks and Caicos
Currently, IHG doesn't have a presence in Turks and Caicos, a Caribbean country surrounded by turquoise waters. However, that'll change in 2027 when the brand is set to open three of its most iconic brands — InterContinental, Kimpton and Hotel Indigo — on the iconic Grace Bay.
While we'll have to wait for more specifics, we do know that the hotels are opening in partnership with Molo Hotel Group and U.K.-based management group Lighthouse Hotel Management; they will offer three distinct experiences for different types of travelers.
Four Seasons announces new private jet experiences
Sure, Four Seasons is known for having some of the best hotels and resorts in the world, but its most luxurious product is probably the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience. It combines stays at Four Seasons locations in awe-worthy destinations with transportation on one of the best planes in the sky.
Now, Four Seasons has unveiled six new itineraries for 2026. Globetrotters with deep pockets can fly to see attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the ancient city of Petra and Angkor Wat. Or, they can relax on the shores of Bora Bora, the Maldives or Miami.
Starting at $159,000 per person, a few of the 2026 itineraries include the 21-day International Intrigue — which stops in Paris; Kyoto, Japan; Hoi An, Vietnam (home to my favorite Four Seasons, Nam Hai); Marrakech, Morrocco; and the Maldives — as well as the 16-day Asia Unveiled, running from Tokyo to Bangkok. The 23-day Ancient Explorer whisks people from Miami to Madrid, stopping in Australia, Jordan, Mexico City, Easter Island, and even Sicily's Four Seasons Taormina at San Domenico Palace (of "The White Lotus" fame).
Related: Another big Four Seasons clue just dropped for ‘The White Lotus’ season 3
And the Four Seasons Toronto just got an impressive new look
Speaking of Four Seasons, the Canada-based company just unveiled that the Four Seasons Toronto has finished a head-to-toe, multimillion-dollar renovation of its guest rooms and suites. The new design celebrates all things Canada and "draws from Toronto's unique juxtaposition of urban sophistication and natural beauty," according to a statement from Four Seasons.
Other highlights include art by Canadian artists, Canadian-made furniture, Nespresso machines, electric kettles, new lighting and electronic curtain systems, wireless chargers and minibars full of local goods.
A storied department store gets a new life
In Oxford, England, a new lifestyle hotel called The Store has opened in the former home of the Boswells department store — one of the longest-running department stores in the world. The new hotel has plenty to offer guests looking for a one-of-a-kind stay, including 101 rooms spread across seven floors and two interconnected buildings. It also has a rooftop bar, a restaurant serving "untraditionally British" food and even a spa.
Hampton by Hilton is getting zesty
Available for a limited time, Hampton by Hilton is shaking up its free breakfast game by introducing a special lemon waffle in the U.S. and Canada. Hampton by Hilton's unique waffle flavors, ranging from pumpkin spice to red velvet, have been popular for years. Now, the brand encourages guests to make a lemon waffle and top it with sweet blueberry compote for the ultimate summer waffle experience.
Hilton partners with ResortPass for pool and spa access
Sometimes, you don't end up at the resort with the best pool or spa, but that doesn't mean you're totally locked out of experiencing them. Hilton has teamed up with ResortPass, a company that sells daypasses to popular resort pools and spas; this allows people who aren't staying at select properties the opportunity to join in on the fun.
Right now, some of those resorts include the Conrad Los Angeles, Hilton Waikoloa Village in Hawaii, the Conrad Indianapolis, The Diplomat Beach Resort, Conrad Punta de Mita and the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, among many others.
Chef Michael Mina makes his New York debut at the JW Marriott Essex House
Chef Michael Mina is well known for his assortment of restaurants, including Bourbon Steak, a new take on the classic American steakhouse. While Bourbon Steak has locations in cities like LA, Miami, and Nashville, Mina has yet to return to New York City after launching his career at chef Charlie Palmer’s restaurant Aureole.
That's all changed now that Bourbon Steak New York and its meat- and seafood-heavy menu are welcoming guests at the JW Marriott Essex House, right across the street from Central Park. There, guests can enjoy lobster and other seafood from a cart brought tableside, sip on smoking whisky cocktails and savor beautiful steaks. Then, they can retire to a room with views of the park upstairs.
Tempo by Hilton Times wants you to meet Ben Platt
When I first learned that the iconic Palace Theater in New York City would be lifted 30 feet off street level as part of the TSX Broadway and Tempo by Hilton development, I was intrigued to see how the hotel would partner with the theater it towers over. Now, those partnerships are coming to life, and the first involves Broadway superstar Ben Platt and Broadway Plus.
Now through June 15, Platt is taking up residence at The Palace, and Tempo by Hilton Times Square is offering a special package. It includes an overnight stay, show tickets, a meet-and-greet experience, exclusive merch and complimentary drinks (inspired by Platt's new album, "Honeymind") served at Highball, the hotel bar.
Additionally, Highball will serve an entire pre-fixe menu for $65 per person, featuring dishes inspired by Platt's album.
Rates start at $800, and you can book online.
In other news:
- Do recent World of Hyatt changes signal the demise of the hotel loyalty program?
- Hilton and Huttopia are playing major roles in the growing US camping travel sector
- The Mirage will close in July to begin Hard Rock transformation
- Ritz-Carlton is taking over a famed resort on the North Shore of Oahu
- 11 best hotels for nightlife — from popular nightclubs to swanky lounges
Reviews you need to read:
- A taste of luxury in Music City: What it’s like staying at the Conrad Nashville
- What it’s like to stay at Banyan Tree Phuket
- Checking in to the world's most photographed hotel: A review of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
- The trendiest hotel in New York’s trendiest neighborhood: My stay at the Warren Street Hotel
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto: Polished service redeems its so-so location
- What it's like to stay in a treehouse in Mexico: A review of Nomade Holbox
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.