Let the Festivities Planning Begin

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa—some of the calendar’s biggest holidays anchor the tail end of the year, but it’s never too early to start planning for them. Whether you’re hoping to gather the entire extended family for a festive reunion or celebrate with just your nearest and dearest, Four Seasons will help you craft a holiday experience for the books. From seasonal events to special menus, these four properties go above and beyond to spread joy and mirth.  

Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Christmas Market Prague
The Christmas tree at the Old Town Square’s Christmas Market.

If a classic old-world holiday experience is what you’re after, Prague should be high on your list of destinations to consider for your end-of-year vacation. The Czech Republic’s capital city has charmed many a travel writer with its cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture; now imagine the city all decked out for the holidays. It’s a veritable winter wonderland straight out of a fairy tale.  

Bonus: No need to pack presents. Just a seven-minute walk from Four Seasons Hotel Prague is the Old Town Square, site of the city’s largest Christmas Market (and tallest Christmas tree). Sip on mulled wine, treat the kids to gingerbread, and shop for handmade souvenirs to bring home. This year, the market starts November 26 and ends January 6.  

Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Room
Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Room

After a day of exploring, retire to the hotel, itself decorated to the nines, and indulge in the Dior Afternoon Tea at the Gallery lounge (preferably by the fireplace), where you can warm up with a spot of tea and a selection of canapés, scones, and desserts.  

When you book a stay at Four Seasons Hotel Prague, you also have at your disposal its incredible curated experiences—including a private tour through the Old Town Square Christmas Market, an evening ride in an antique car to take in the city’s holiday lights and decorations, and cultural happenings like Advent concerts at the National Library of the Czech Republic in the Klementinum.  

Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville

Broadway in Nashville
Lower Broadway in Nashville. Photograph by mana5280 on Unsplash.

Nashville’s nickname is Music City—for good reason. It’s a mecca for country music buffs and live music aficionados. And come winter, the city adds carols and jingles to its musical repertoire.  

 This season, holiday-themed shows happening in Tennessee’s capital city will include Opry Country Christmas at the Grand Ole Opry House; screenings of Elf and Home Alone accompanied by live music at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center; A Drag Queen Christmas at Ryman Auditorium; and Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall.  

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville Mimo
Four Seasons Hotel Nashville Mimo

 At Four Seasons Hotel Nashville, the holidays are all about delighting guests with special treats and events. At the Festive Carolers Dinner, carolers spread cheer from table to table, singing Christmas classics. At the Christmas Day Brunch, Santa Claus drops in for a thrilling visit, and guests get to try their hand at gingerbread house decorating. And on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Mimo, the hotel’s Tuscan-inspired restaurant, hosts a special prix fixe, four-course dinner. At evening’s end, every guest receives a holiday gift to take home.  

Festive at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

Christmas in London, Photo by Arafat Khan on Unsplash
Christmas in London. Photograph by Arafat Khan on Unsplash.

Love Actually. A Christmas Carol. Bridget Jones’s Diary. The Holiday. Some of our favourite Christmas movies (and likely yours, too) take place in London, the city that popularized beloved Victorian-era traditions—decorated trees and storefronts, Christmas crackers, holiday cards—that continue to this day.  

In addition to Christmas markets, ample shopping, and holiday lights viewing, London also offers plenty of places to ice skate. These outdoor venues, often surrounded by historical beauty, include Somerset House, where in late November the imposing and vast neoclassical site’s outdoor courtyard is transformed into an ice rink. Another magical spot for skating: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the biggest outdoor rink in the United Kingdom. Here, you can glide beneath 100,000 twinkling lights to a Christmas soundtrack.  

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, Christmas
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, Christmas

 Hyde Park is, conveniently, just a one-minute walk from Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. Located on a quiet corner in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel goes all out for the holidays with elegant decorations and special menus at the French-inspired, Michelin-starred Pavyllon London, helmed by chef Yannick Alléno. And should you need help arranging exclusive, unique experiences across the city, the hotel’s concierge team—the largest in London—is ready to assist.  

Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre  

Christmas in Dubai
Dubai decorated for the holidays. Photograph by mahyar motebassem on Unsplash.

Travel to Dubai during the holidays, and you’ll encounter lit trees, holiday markets, even Santa and his elves—but you’ll experience these traditions in warm, parka-free weather. That said, should you want a taste of wintry weather, simply head over to Ski Dubai, a gargantuan indoor ski resort where you can ski, snowboard, sled, and even meet some penguins. It’s housed in the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest malls in the world.  

 Speaking of malls, luxury shopping is practically a sport in Dubai, and with the winter months comes the annual Dubai Shopping Festival, five weeks in December and January when stores offer irresistible discounts. And because Christmas isn’t a national holiday there, stores stay open, and you won’t have to wait for Boxing Day to shop.  

Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, Mina, Festive
Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, Mina, Festive

 Outdoor excursions also abound in Dubai: desert safaris, yacht adventures, hot-air balloon rides, and cultural sightseeing can all be arranged when you stay at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre. The boutique hotel is a quiet oasis in the middle of the financial district, close to downtown and just minutes from the beach. Though small, with just 106 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, the hotel offers a range of dining options, from afternoon tea at Penrose Lounge and French Mediterranean dishes at Michelin-recommended Mina Brasserie, to small bites at Luna Dubai and Middle Eastern meze poolside, both on the roof with skyline views.    

Fourth of July Fireworks, Four Seasons Style

Nothing says summer in the U.S. like Fourth of July. While backyard cookouts and sparklers are classic ways to celebrate Independence Day, sometimes you want a more elevated experience. Whether you’re craving a private cabana by the pool or prefer to soak up panoramic skyline views, Four Seasons is the perfect destination for the whole family. Here are a few of our favourite stateside Four Seasons properties for unparalleled Fourth of July fireworks viewing.  

St. Louis

With sprawling views of the Mississippi River, Four Seasons St. Louis is an ideal destination for this most American of holidays. The eighth-floor Sky Terrace features a rooftop pool with tropical cocktails and cabana rentals. If you need to escape the heat for a while, pop into the Topgolf Swing Suites to unleash your inner Tiger Woods. Come nightfall, Sky Terrace offers exceptional views of the pyrotechnics over the iconic Gateway Arch. You can also host a more private celebration by booking an Arch-view room.  

Sky Terrace at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis

Nashville

It’s no secret that Music City knows how to party, and this year’s Fourth of July celebration at the Rivière Rooftop at the Four Seasons Hotel Nashville aims to keep that tradition alive. The festivities kick off at noon with grilled family favourites, a sorbet station, and a whoopie pie dessert bar. Turn the fun up a notch come sunset with an all-inclusive ticketed event that includes a summer barbecue showcase (think BBQ ribs, cedar plank salmon, and smoked brisket) and an open bar. Overlooking the Cumberland River, you’ll savour one of the city’s most spectacular fireworks views with a full belly and a song in your heart. 

Rooftop fireworks at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville

Philadelphia

Every guest room at the Four Seasons Philadelphia boasts stellar views of the City of Brotherly Love, making the property an ideal setting to experience the annual fireworks display above the Museum of Art. Or reserve a table at 60th-floor lounge SkyHigh and enjoy a glass of bubbly while taking in the epic views of the shimmering night sky. You can also make it a more educational Fourth of July by booking a walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks and learning about Philadelphia’s pivotal role in American independence.

A historical stop on the Independence Walking Tour

Minneapolis

At 36 stories high, Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis enjoys sweeping panoramas of downtown and the Mississippi River. It’s just a short distance away from Stone Arch Bridge, where the city’s annual Red, White, and Boom fireworks display takes place. Cool off in Minneapolis’s only hotel with both indoor and outdoor pools, and beat the crowds come nightfall as you delight in the spectacle from the rooftop at Riva Terrace Restaurant and Bar

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis has unencumbered views of the skyline.

New Orleans

With a 75-foot saltwater pool and expansive views over the Mississippi River, the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans offers a cool escape from the bustling city. With private cabanas, a full-service bar and restaurant, and plenty of pool toys, its roof is also the ideal perch for fireworks watching with the whole family—and enjoying a glass or two of signature Frosé. If you’re looking to take the Fourth to even greater heights, the Vue Orleans observation deck on the 34th floor has 360-degree views of the city. 

Vue Orleans’ observation deck

City Breaks, Your Way

How do you harness the energy of a city to create an unforgettable vacation? That depends on who you ask. Whether you’re into music, photography, art, fashion, food, family activities or wellness, Four Seasons can help you explore some of the most dynamic cities in the world and experience them through your own lens. A stay at Four Seasons means you’ll enjoy insider access, private tours and recommendations from in-the-know Concierges. These city breaks are bound to inspire your next weekend away.

Discover live music bars in Nashville

Bar counter, lounge seating and a table and club chairs in Nashvilles's Mimo Bar

Catch curated live local music at Mimo Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville.

Nashville has long been a draw for creatives. The city is filled with innovative craftspeople, designers, chefs and, of course, musicians, eager to share their passion with all who visit. Located in downtown’s SoBro (short for “south of Broadway”) neighbourhood, Four Seasons Hotel Nashville is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the area’s coolest bars, restaurants and live music venues.

Grab a pint of the all-Tennessee-grain State Park Blonde Ale – the official beer of the Tennessee State Parks – at Tennessee Brew Works while listening to live local music every night. Or head to The Listening Room Cafe to see performances by up-and-comers, number-one-hit songwriters and international acts in what is considered the “best-sounding room in Nashville.” You can also catch some Delta blues, rockabilly and jazz at the Hotel’s own Mimo Bar, featuring live music every Friday to Sunday curated by the Hotel’s music-obsessed Director of Public Relations Robert Chinman and on-property guitarist and music afficionado Assistant Director of Residences Dustin Doering. “Just as you would want for any Friday or Saturday night in Downtown Nashville, we are bringing an energetic line-up to Mimo Bar,” says Chinman. Want a taste of what you could be hearing? Add the Mimo Bar Spotify playlist to your regular rotation.

For those really wanting to immerse themselves in the creative energy of Music City, Four Seasons can arrange for a fully customized songwriters’ round experience. Hosted in a private space at a nearby art gallery, you’ll get to sit in and witness Nashville-based hit songwriters performing together and sharing the stories behind the creative process and what inspired their music.

See live music in Nashville

Focus on city photography in Seoul

 

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From the towering bookshelves of Starfield Library to the two-dimensional stylings of Cafe Yeonnam-dong 239-20, Seoul is filled with amazing selfie spots. And one of the most iconic locations to snap a grid-worthy pic is Bukchon Hanok Village. Famous for its traditional Korean houses – known as hanoks – this residential neighbourhood in the Jongno District offers a first-hand glimpse of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul invites you to explore the village, along with Gyeongbok Palace and Insa-dong, on the exclusive Love Is Seoul-Searching on Foot walking tour. An expert will take you on a half-day tour through some of the city’s most beautiful places. You also have the option to don a hanbok – traditional Korean clothing – during the tour for an even deeper experience. For women, that means a jeogori (top) and chima (skirt), while for men, hanbok consists of a jeogori and loose-fitting baji (trousers).

And if you’re looking for modern architectural marvel, let Four Seasons arrange for a private limousine ride and a tailored shopping experience at Dior Seongsu, capped off with a drink at Café Dior in front of a backdrop inspired by the lush gardens of Christian Dior’s childhood home on the seaside cliffs of Granville, France.

Take a selfie in Seoul

Explore urban art during a city creak in Boston

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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston, is home to an impressive art collection, including site-specific pieces and carefully considered works found throughout the property.

Boston may be famous for its pivotal role in American history and as the setting of some of the world’s top intellectual institutions, but it’s also home to a blossoming urban art scene. And few places can give you the inside scoop on both established and up-and-coming artists quite like Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. To start, the Hotel itself is home to a robust collection of works from a group of internationally important artists. The diverse collection was carefully curated in collaboration with world-renowned art consultants Kate Chertavian and Lucy Rosenburgh, and pieces can be found throughout the property, including in every guest room and residence. Let the Concierge pour you a glass of champagne before you set off on a self-guided tour.

Tucked away on a tree-lined street in Boston’s Back Bay, the Hotel is within walking distance of numerous museums and galleries, including the not-to-be-missed Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Have the Concierge organize a custom itinerary for you, starting with a stop at the art-filled Farmer’s Horse Coffee for a fresh-brewed Ethiopian coffee. The Concierge can also arrange for a car to take you to the Seaport District to visit the Institute of Contemporary Art (an official hotel partner) to browse in the current exhibition.

Explore Boston’s creative side

Embrace city fashion in New York

Style mavens flock to New York twice a year for fashion week, but this city’s sidewalks double as runways year round. If you’re wanting a stylish weekend in the city, base yourself at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown. Located in the heart of Tribeca, the award-winning Hotel embodies luxury New York living and puts you within walking distance of some of the city’s best shopping, restaurants and bars. Want to make sure you look your best while exploring the city? Four Seasons offers a number of unique experiences to help you do just that. Be sure to pay a visit to The Edit, a pop-up retail space within the Spa’s third-floor boutique that features a rotating collection of New York’s best emerging brands and designers, including curated collections filled with the vibrant colours and geometric shapes of Raquel Orozco and the boundary-pushing designs of Terry Singh. With the designers changing every few months, you’ll always find something fresh to discover.

“We believe in creating experiences to inspire meaningful conversations, and by launching The Edit, we are bringing new designers into our space who share in our vision while highlighting the best of New York fashion and accessories for our guests,” says Monica Domantay, Lifestyle Creative Director at the Hotel. The concierge team can also provide you with a personalized list of boutiques and designer shops to visit while you’re in town.

And when you’re done exploring for the day, come back to the Hotel to relax with champagne and music in one of the specialty suites that were recently redesigned by award-winning interior architect Bill Rooney and his team. Moody, soulful and timeless, every suite is made to feel like a true New Yorker’s apartment. The Metropolis and Tribeca suites even feature classic record players and record collections from iconic New York musicians for you to enjoy during your New York stay.

Find your own style in New York

Savour culinary magic in Paris

Overhead view of a table filled with small gold-rimmed plates of food and a white ceramic tea set for two

A stay at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, puts the city’s culinary wonders within easy reach.

As one of the world’s best foodie cities, this European destination can make even the simplest meal feel elegant. You could plan an entire trip to Paris based solely on the restaurants you’ll visit and head home happy and fulfilled.

When you stay at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, you’ll have direct access to some of the most coveted tables in the city. A culinary destination in its own right, the Hotel’s three-Michelin-starred Le Cinq is a must-visit. Serving modern French fare by Executive Chef Christian Le Squer paired with rare wines carefully selected by award-winning Head Sommelier Eric Beaumard, Le Cinq offers the dining experience of a lifetime.

And that’s just one of the Hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Have the Concierge book you a table at the one-Michelin-starred Le George for trendy Italian-Mediterranean cuisine for dinner one night, then for lunch the next day in the glass-panelled courtyard at L’Orangerie to sample the innovative work of Chef Alan Taudon, focused on vegetables, seafood and dairy – no meat – that has also earned this restaurant one Michelin star.

Take your culinary escapade one step further on one of the exclusive chef-led experiences curated only for guests at Four Seasons. Spend a day in Versailles with Le George’s own Chef Simone Zanoni to pick fresh produce for your private cooking class, or take a scenic two-hour drive to the Champagne region to sip the oldest champagne vintages in the world during a private tour of Maison Belle Époque.

Eat well in Paris

Uncover the family-friendly city of Fort Lauderdale

 

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Whether you have a toddler, a young child or a teen – or all of the above – finding a family-friendly city can make all the difference. Look no further than Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale – the ideal home base for your city adventures – with a team well-versed in creating itineraries that are sure to delight guests of all ages.

Paying homage to the city’s yachting legacy with a decidedly mid-century feel, the Hotel proves that kid-friendly spaces don’t have to sacrifice style. The all-day café Honey Fitz – located just off the lobby – is the perfect example of this, where a central marble table displays pastries by day and champagne by night. “Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale is set to usher Fort Lauderdale into a new era of luxury. The natural beauty of its location along the Beach Boulevard immediately reminded me of La Croisette in Cannes,” says designer Tara Bernerd. “We brought the space to life with an effortless flow throughout the public spaces, pairing fresh palettes with statement mid-century furniture, creating a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere that reflects the city’s youthful and vibrant spirit.”

Set on the shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Four Seasons is a modern seaside haven for families. Younger children will love the daily activities at Kids For All Seasons – a dedicated kids’ club based on the Hotel’s Ocean Sun Deck – which includes activities such as poolside games, swimming activities, cooking classes, and arts and crafts. Older kids can cruise along the beach on one of the Hotel’s custom bicycles or ride over to nearby Bonnet House Museum & Gardens to explore the five distinct ecosystems that make up the scenic grounds. The Hotel can also arrange for a variety of unique experiences the whole family will love, such as a private Everglades airboat tour, a private yacht charter and a private helicopter tour for thrilling views of the Florida coastline.

Take the family to Fort Lauderdale

Relax during an urban retreat in Hong Kong

Spa attendant hits a small gong with a mallet as a man sits in lotus position on a massage table

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong offers a variety of holistic wellness experiences curated by a team of in-house experts and visiting practitioners.

The focus on personal betterment and wellness experiences is a travel trend that many people are incorporating into their vacations. And just because you’re embarking on a city getaway, that doesn’t mean you can’t find your Zen while there. One place that makes this remarkably easy is Hong Kong. It’s a fast-paced city with so much to see and do, but it’s also home to hiking trails, tucked-away gardens and verdant spaces nestled within commercial districts.

At Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, you can enjoy a quick reset or dig in deeper with the Hotel’s holistic spa program, offering unique treatments and rituals hosted by resident healers and visiting wellness experts. Revitalize your senses during a gong bath, connect with yourself and your loved ones during a private group meditation session, or opt for one of the multi-day programs to help improve sleep or enhance your overall vitality.

Fill your spiritual cup with a visit to Po Lin Monastery to see the awe-inspiring Big Buddha surrounded by majestic mountains. Four Seasons can arrange for a private Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride to the site, followed by a visit to the historic village of Tai O, one of the few remaining fishing villages in Hong Kong. You’ll get an up-close view of the village’s stilt houses during a 20-minute local boat ride and see what life is like for the tight-knit Tanka community that calls Tai O home.

See a quieter side of Hong Kong

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Escape to the city with Four Seasons.

Woman with Four Seasons tree logo

4 Ways to Travel Together This Summer

They say if you really want to get know someone, travel with them. Sometimes that person is a family member or a friend, sometimes it’s your partner, and sometimes it’s you. Whether it’s participating in sea turtle conservation in Nevis with the kids, dining at a romantic Michelin-starred restaurant in Sicily with your better half, exploring dynamic Nashville with your closest friends or exploring Montreal’s Vieux Port solo, connecting with people and places, making memories, and learning more about yourself and your loved ones is what travel is all about. Whomever you’re planning on travelling with this summer, here are some of our favourite destinations, plus what to do while you’re there.

Fs Hualalai

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has long been a family favourite.

For family moments you won’t forget: Hualalai, Nevis and Koh Samui

A year-round tropical paradise with white-sand beaches and water activities galore, Hawaii is a favourite for a reason. This is true for families with young children, more intrepid teens or even multiple generations. On the Big Island’s Kona Coast, the recently renovated Four Seasons Resort Hualalai features multi-bedroom specialty suites and villas designed for families, giving them room to spread out while showcasing gorgeous ocean views.

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A stay in one of the Resort’s specialty suites or villas provide plenty of extra space.

“From cultural immersion and culinary experiences to educational programming at the Kumu Kai marine centre, led by our team of marine biologists, and [water activities], our robust range of offerings truly speaks to our commitment to families,” says Charlie Parker, Regional Vice President and General Manager. The Resort’s 1.8 million-gallon swimmable aquarium will be a hit with toddlers and school-age children, not to mention eagle ray feedings and ukulele lessons that everyone will enjoy. Adventurous families can try outrigger canoeing or explore lava tubes and waterfalls. And did we mention the eight different Resort pools?

Explore the ocean in Hualalai

Meanwhile, on the Caribbean’s famed Pinney’s Beach, Four Seasons Resort Nevis, West Indies, features a complimentary kids club as well as unique opportunities to participate in sea turtle conservation alongside local partners. The Resort’s annual Sea Turtle Conservation weekend in July features turtle-tracking night walks and catch, tag and release programming, a special chance to learn more about these endangered marine reptiles. You’ll have more than enough room for the whole family here on Nevis, with accommodations ranging from bright and airy guest rooms to seven-bedroom private villas.

Help sea turtles in Nevis

For a one-of-a-kind immersive experience, head to the all-villa Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, situated on the island’s idyllic northwest corner. Here, families can learn Thai kick-boxing together, snorkel in the protected waters of Angthong National Marine Park, and make dishes such as pad thai with tamarind and chives or tom yum soup laced with lemon-grass during a three-hour cooking class. Tip: Book one of the Resort’s Family Pool Villas, which feature a spacious terrace with a private plunge pool and a kids’ bedroom with games, books and toys.

Learn to cook together in Koh Samui

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Four Seasons Hotel Nashville puts you in the heart of SoBro.

For a friends’ reunion: Nashville, Los Cabos and the Maldives

Planning a getaway for a much needed catch-up with your favourite people? Make Four Seasons Hotel Nashville your base while you explore Music City’s honky-tonks, tuck into creative eats at award-winning restaurants such as Audrey and Tailor Nashville, and take in art at the Parthenon and the Frist Art Museum, an often-overlooked gem. The Hotel – located in the SoBro (South of Broadway) neighbourhood – can even arrange a private one-hour acoustic performance by a Nashville-based hit songwriter, in the comfort of your suite, as part of its Suite Sounds program in collaboration with Songwriter City. “Music is the heartbeat of Nashville, so it has been our top priority from day one to build meaningful relationships and partnerships within the city’s thriving music scene,” says Richard Poskanzer, General Manager of the Hotel.

Strike a chord in Nashville

Alternatively, sign up your group for the new adults-only summer camp, Camp Verano, at the spectacular Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas™, set along Baja’s tranquil East Cape and the Sea of Cortez. Available this summer from Memorial Day through Labour Day, the customizable five-day “camp” includes off-roading in desert dunes; snorkelling with rays, sea turtles and even bull sharks in Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park (an area which Jacques Cousteau called “the aquarium of the world”); hiking to natural water slides; and private agave tastings.

Be a kid again in Los Cabos

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Have the whole island to yourselves at Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah.

Or perhaps you and your friends would like a private island to yourselves? Consider Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, a breathtaking island escape for up to 21 guests in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You’ll have your own 19-metre (62-foot) yacht to explore the area, including the manta ray hot spot Hanifaru Bay to the south, secluded sandbanks to the east and an endless horizon for viewing stunning sunsets to the west. After a day spent exploring crystal-clear lagoons, reefs teeming with fish and powdery beaches, unwind with a bespoke treatment at the on-island Ocean of Consciousness Spa.

Enjoy island life in the Maldives

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San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel is an idyllic setting for a romantic getaway.

For just the two of you: Taormina and Napa Valley

Whether you’re a couple in love, newlyweds on a honeymoon or parents looking for a kid-free break, connecting with your significant other is best done in a beautiful setting. Dating back to the 14th century, San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, is perched atop a promontory overlooking the Ionian Sea, Mount Etna and an ancient Greek theatre. In the Hotel, a former Dominican convent, several of the sea-view rooms and suites have terraces and private plunge pools.

“Sicily is the perfect destination to share love, passion and ‘la dolce vita,’” says the Hotel’s Concierge. “Take a drive in a tiny original Fiat 500 – perfect for two – to visit the area around Taormina. Drive up winding roads into small villages to see the sights and admire views of the Ionian Sea. Or enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the bay on a traditional fisherman boat, toasting with a Sicilian sparkling wine before hopping off to visit charming Isola Bella.” But return in time for dinner at the Hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Principe Cerami, helmed by Chef Massimo Mantarro, and dig into Sicilian fare such as quail with asparagus and black truffle, or busiate pasta with almonds, eggplant and garlic. If you and your love are then ready to retire, we wouldn’t blame you, but the property can arrange stargazing safaris with an expert astronomer weaving tales of mythology while pointing out the constellations.

Live la dolce vita in Taormina

Fs Hualalai

Relish in a laid-back getaway at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley.

Equally enchanting is Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley. While it’s within a mile of downtown Calistoga, a charming wine country town known for its hot springs and mud baths, the Resort feels like a retreat tucked away among grapevines. With a world-class on-site winery, overseen by celebrated winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, and a beautiful adults-only pool, this charming 85-room property is indeed hard to leave. Rooms and villas range from a generous 480 square feet to 3,400 square feet and are outfitted with fireplaces, patios and terraces, and enormous grey-tiled baths. Rise early for a sunrise hot-air balloon ride and you’ll be rewarded with a sherbet-coloured sky overlooking green hills, olive groves and oak trees. Then take you love out to explore Oxbow Public Market, the area’s art galleries, and one (or more) of the dozens of wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants that are all within easy reach.

Raise a toast in Napa

For me, myself and I: Lisbon, Santa Fe and Montreal

In the recent decade, the rise in solo travel is proof that sometimes the best companion may be yourself. Travelling alone heightens your senses to the sights and sounds around you; you can observe and appreciate a destination in a deeper way. Stay at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon while wandering the seven hills of Portugal’s capital. The coastal city, with its tile-covered and pastel-hued buildings, is a photographer’s dream. Pop on a helmet and ride in the sidecar of a vintage motorcycle as a professional photographer offers tips and tricks for capturing the beauty and charm of Lisbon’s quaint Alfama, Bairro Alto and Chiado neighbourhoods. “Lisbon welcomes solo travellers with both arms wide open,” says Head Concierge Luis Miguel. “Our vibrant city is colourful, inviting and culturally diverse. With a fascinating history and lively art and cultural scene, there’s always something to see, taste or do, even if that means letting yourself get lost going up and down the winding streets of Alfama.” Find your way back and hit the Hotel’s Spa, or linger over the seasonal jacaranda afternoon tea in the tapestry-lined Almada Negreiros Lounge.

Get to know colourful Lisbon

A city with Southwestern flavour and a laid-back vibe, Santa Fe is an easy weekend away on your own. By day, stroll the atmospheric, walkable downtown plaza; pop into several museums (don’t miss the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum); and sink into beloved Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-style hot springs spa. Come night, rest your head at the intimate 65-casita Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, set among 57 acres of rolling hills dotted with fragrant piñon trees. From horseback riding to a day trip to Abiquiú to see O’Keeffe’s Ghost Ranch, the Resort can set up just about anything.

See the art of Santa Fe

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Let Four Seasons Hotel Montreal be home base for exploring your new favourite city.

Cosmopolitan Montreal, with its diverse neighbourhoods and a well-connected metro, is quite suitable for solo exploration – especially the Vieux Port (Old Port) area. Take your time exploring the scenic waterfront district on foot, and have the team at Four Seasons Hotel Montreal arrange a private culinary tour of the city, with a stop for Montreal-style bagels and a visit to the sprawling Jean-Talon Market. For dinner, the Hotel’s newly redone restaurant, overseen by global celebrity chef Marcus Samuelson, is fast becoming a foodie hot spot in its own right.

Walk the charming streets of Montreal

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Who will you be travelling with this summer?

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

3 Luxury Real Estate Hot Spots to Keep on Your Radar

The way people think about their living spaces has changed tremendously over the last few years. The rise of remote work has enabled us to live our lives untethered from the office (at least physically), which has stirred up an idea that most people dream about only when on vacation: What if we lived here?

Because of this newfound flexibility, some of the most alluring vacation destinations have quickly become something else entirely – booming real estate markets. And luxury buyers are taking note. Coastal areas like Cabo San Lucas and Fort Lauderdale are high on everyone’s list, especially for retirees, but modern and amenity-rich cities such as Nashville and Dubai are also making plenty of waves during the Great Relocation.

Thinking of making the shift to full-time vacation mode? (Or at least living in a place that feels like it?) Here are three real estate hot spots to keep your eye on for when you’re ready to live the dream.

A relaxation haven in Los Cabos

With its unique and rugged coastal landscape and rich marine life, Mexico’s Baja peninsula is one of the country’s most visited vacation destinations. So, it makes sense that it’s also home to one of its hottest markets, particularly for buyers from the U.S. and Canada who are just a quick flight away. In Cabo San Lucas, the ocean is your inspiration and your playground. This booming resort town offers plenty to see and do on both land and sea, the ideal place for those looking for a dynamic yet easy-going atmosphere where you can really unwind.

Homeowners can embrace a quintessential Cabo lifestyle at Four Seasons Private Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol, where you can play golf barefoot on your terms, explore the Golden Corridor or spend your lunch break at the private Cove Club. Take your calls on your residence’s private pool deck or in your open-concept living room framed by ocean views; then head out to paddleboard, snorkel, or relax on the white-sand beaches once the work is done.

For even more seclusion, a place on the East Cape may be just what you need. With fewer tourists and more swimmable beaches thanks to its perch on the Sea of Cortez, this once off-the-grid location has become one of the area’s most up-and-coming communities. At the centre of this new development is Four Seasons Private Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas. Homes here are beachfront, marina-side or ocean view, with access to two miles of swimmable beach – a rare find in Cabo – as well as plenty of water sports and a front-row seat to what Jacques Cousteau dubbed the “aquarium of the world.” There’s “something for everyone or every family at Costa Palmas,” says Ricardo Medina, Senior Director of Marketing at Irongate, the real estate firm that owns Costa Palmas.

The (Southern) comforts of home

Florida has long welcomed international travelers and snowbirds from the north for temporary winter stays, but the pandemic has made the state an even more appealing work-from-home option for the long term.

If you’re curious about the Sunshine State, vibrant Miami is always an option worth considering. Resting along the Atlantic Ocean in nearby Surfside, The Surf Club residences provide privacy on the water along with panoramic ocean views from every home, ranging from one to six bedrooms in size. Owners here also have access to private beach cabanas and all the amenities at Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, including three pools, lush gardens, the Spa and The Surf Club Restaurant helmed by renowned chef Thomas Keller. If Old Hollywood glamour is your style, this historic property could be just what you’re looking for.

A little farther up the coast, you can live the yacht life on shore at Four Seasons Private Residences Fort Lauderdale, with the same turquoise Atlantic Ocean view. Everything Fort Lauderdale has to offer is at your doorstep. The Intracoastal Waterway is to the west, the Atlantic to the east, Taylor Birch State Park to the north, and Las Olas Boulevard, with all of its shops and restaurants and entertainment, is just a quick drive south. If the sea constantly calls your name, the “Yachting Capital of the World” may be the perfect place to dock your boat.

Moving inland may mean sacrificing ocean views, but gaining exclusive access to lakes, rivers and vibrant city life is often well worth it. In Austin, Texas, you can easily enjoy the perks of a big city along with the open spaces and laid-back charm of country living. A residential paradise awaits on Lake Austin, with a marina and clubhouse, 145 acres of pristine nature and 3,070 feet of private waterfront. Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin is only 20 minutes away from downtown, letting you mix city life and country living with unbelievable ease. At the end of the workday, there are few greater luxuries than a massage, a dip in the thermal pools or taking the glass-walled funicular down the hill to your own private lakeside playground.

Another Southern U.S. city you may want to keep on your radar is Nashville, Tennessee. Dubbed a “supernova city” because of its astounding growth, Nashville’s cosmopolitan vibes include amazing music venues, cutting-edge restaurants, and world-class artisans, all in a very walkable city. With more and more millennial homebuyers looking to live in places where everything they want and need is within easy reach, living in a place like Nashville makes a lot of sense. Here you can wake up overlooking the skyline and go out for an authentic hot-chicken dinner at the end of the day. “[Our residents] love that they have Nashville at their doorstep and Four Seasons at their service,” says Marie-Laure Frere, Director of Sales for Four Seasons Private Residences Nashville, home to one of the most sought-after new addresses in the city, located in the upmarket SoBro neighbourhood.

A luxe lifestyle along the Arabian Gulf

Gleaming metropolises along the sea are trademarks of the Middle East’s Arabian Gulf. Business is certainly booming here, but places like Dubai and the up-and-coming island country of Bahrain are also catching the attention of cosmopolitan travelers all over the world, and for more than just a quick visit.

“Since the launch of our standalone residential offerings in 2019, we have been looking for strategic opportunities to expand the Four Seasons luxury lifestyle experience in markets where homeowners want and demand the very best in serviced living,” says Bart Carnahan, President of Global Business Development and Portfolio Management at Four Seasons. “We have achieved this and beyond with Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai at Jumeirah.”

The demand is clear: “All 28 units have already sold, marking a first in the over 35-year history of Four Seasons residential offerings – the first time a project has sold out without going to public sales,” continues Carnahan. “As homeowners look for luxury residential experiences of the greatest quality, Four Seasons continues to be the address of choice for discerning buyers worldwide.”

The Four Seasons Middle East portfolio will soon expand even further with some additional highly anticipated real estate offerings. Slated to open in 2023, the waterfront Four Seasons Private Residences Bahrain Bay will feature an exclusive collection of 112 bespoke homes, with architecture by Gensler and interior design by celebrated London-based design firm Rive Gauche. In Doha, Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar is currently underway, with residences set on a private beach surrounded by landscaped gardens and pools, offering city and sea views. And over in Muscat, a relaxing mountain and seaside setting will await homeowners at the upcoming Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Muscat, Oman, located in the heart of an ancient city with a thriving culture.

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When you live with Four Seasons, it’s worry-free home ownership at its most intuitive. Each property has a dedicated residence team to tend to housekeeping, maintenance, concierge services, culinary requests, security and anything else you could possibly need. Your home – be it a second home or primary address – should be your sanctuary, wherever you decide to live. With vibrant metropolises, turquoise seas, private pools, luscious landscapes, culinary delights, and the epitome of service at their fingertips, homeowners can love where they live any time of year with Four Seasons Private Residences.

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