NYC's hottest stay is a tent, a big Las Vegas makeover at the Wynn and other hotel news you missed
Believe it or not, Memorial Day weekend has come and gone — and that means summer is unofficially here. (The technical first day of summer is June 21.) And while you've been busy navigating what we've coined the "sold-out summer," where everything is either sold out or so expensive due to demand it might as well be, there's been a lot happening in the hotel world that you may have missed.
We try our best to keep you updated with what's going on in the hotel space, like how hotel profits recently reached their highest levels in more than two years and the secret to knowing if your city is next in line for a SoHo House. But along the way, there are smaller stories that we save to tell you about here, in this quick monthly column, so you, informed traveler, can be on top of it all.
So whether you're finally reconsidering taking a trip to an all-inclusive resort (pro tip: you should, they're having a moment) or want to go glamping in New York City, here's what you may have missed in May.
All-inclusive resorts are only growing in popularity
We've been saying for a while now that all-inclusive resorts are taking on a new life, as evidenced by the major chains heavily investing in them. One such brand going all-in on all-inclusives is Accor, which plans to have 100 in the next five years. Marriott, which recently added around 20 all-inclusive properties to its Autograph Collection, is also doubling down on all-inclusive resorts once again, adding two more to its portfolio.
Set to open in late 2022 and join the Autograph Collection, the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun (pictured above) will bring 1,049 rooms, plus pools and other water attractions, a theater, a bowling alley and at least 12 restaurants and nine bars to the Cancun, Mexico, resort scene.
Joining the Luxury Collection, Sanctuary Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic will be a 325-room, adults-only resort featuring five restaurants, six bars, five pools and a nightclub. Owned by Playa Hotels & Resorts, the same team behind iconic all-inclusive resorts like the Hyatt Ziva and Zilara brands, this property is the company's first venture with Marriott, so it'll be interesting to see how everything plays out once the resort opens later this year.
Related: Great for families: A review of the stunning new Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort
In Tulum, Hilton just expanded its all-inclusive presence, too, with the opening of the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All‑Inclusive Resort. Another in a string of Hilton all-inclusive openings in Mexico, alongside the Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort, this property is the company's largest in the Caribbean and Latin America, according to Hilton. But what's unique here is that the resort shares its grounds with the recently opened Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, a luxe property that's making us wonder what's going on in the vibey beach town known for its boutique hotels and boho lifestyle.
And not to be left out, Hyatt has now incorporated 50-plus all-inclusive resorts into its World of Hyatt program, so members can now earn and redeem points at more all-inclusive resorts than ever.
Glamping in New York City is the best way to glamp
New York City has no shortage of incredible places to stay, and even more properties are currently in the works. But if you find yourself in the "Center of the Universe" this summer, skip Times Square and take the ferry to Governers Island for a glamping experience with the city skyline in the background.
Collective Retreats, a company that puts together one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences, has kicked off its 2022 season in NYC with 30 different accommodations, including luxury tents and temperature-controlled, cabin-like rooms with soaking tubs — and they all have private bathrooms. If that's not enough, there are tons of fun activities, such as floral workshops while sipping on rosé and classes that teach you how to make traditional clay drinking cups while learning about mezcal. There are also top-tier culinary offerings like seasonal brunches, chef-tasting menus, delicious sweets from chef Aura Danton and even late-night s'mores.
So whether you're a tourist looking to see a different side of NYC (surprise! there's a lot of green in the concrete jungle) or a local looking for a staycation, glamping may be exactly what you're looking for.
IHG's Vignette Collection is taking off
Last year, IHG announced an all-new collection of properties called Vignette, which will offer "one-of-a-kind exclusive hotels curated for guests seeking rich and varied independent stay experiences," according to IHG. This brand seems comparable to Hyatt's Unbound Collection, Hilton's Curio Collection and Marriott's Autograph Collection, which all feature hotels that feel distinct and individual rather than similar to every other property on the block.
As of now, the only open Vignette hotel is the edgy Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Vly in Brisbane, Australia, but there are several others already in the works, including two in Thailand, three in Portugal and one in Austria. In late 2022, Casa da Companhia is scheduled to open in Porto, Portugal, with 40 rooms and suites in a building with interiors restored from the 18th century. Since IHG recently completed a total overhaul of its loyalty program, it'll be interesting to see how the Vignette properties find their place in the changing brand — and we can't wait to review them for you.
Wynn Las Vegas is looking better than ever
Your next trip to Wynn Las Vegas may feel a little different than your last, as the resort plans to finish the "largest and most extensive design evolution" to the tower's 2,674 guest rooms in June. Major changes include updating the bathrooms to have double vanities and twice the storage space, adding upgraded closets with more storage space and dressing areas with mirrored walls, putting in new tables better suited for work and dining, increasing the number of power points and incorporating more touchless in-room technology. Guests will also find new furniture, fixtures, lighting and artwork all curated by Todd-Avery Lenahan, president of design and development for Wynn.
In other news
- Accor wants to take Orient Express beyond the rails and into hotels
- MGM acquires the Cosmopolitan but it remains with Marriott, for now
- Hyatt’s new lifestyle brand debuts soon in Memphis — and food is the main star
- Hotel hiring picks up in the US, but that doesn’t mean daily housekeeping is coming back
- The tallest hotel in New Zealand is a Holiday Inn Express
- Want to avoid surging European hotel prices? Try these countries
Recent hotel reviews to inspire your next trip
- Below expectations: A review of Hilton’s Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts
- This 232-year-old fort is part of Hyatt’s luxury Alila brand: Here’s why I loved my stay
- Stylish practicality: The renovated Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
- 7 things to know before booking a stay at Montego Bay’s Hilton Rose Hall Resort
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.