points N places

Six Senses Xala to open in 2026 - a new wellness on Mexico'spacific coast
7 Dec

Six Senses Xala to Offer a Restorative Coastal Haven haven on Six Senses Xala

Six Senses, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts luxury and lifestyle portfolio, has signed a hotel management agreement with Activos Turisticos de Mexico (ACTUR) for the development of Six Senses Xala, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

Flanked by five miles of curving white-sand beach, the 3,000-acre terrain, located in the Costalegre or “Cheerful Coast” region of Jalisco, will offer both a sanctuary and a vibrant community among fragrant mango fields, coconut palms, pristine ocean, and the serene estuary waters of the Xola-Paramán.

Secluded within this verdant landscape, yet just 10 minutes from the new Chalacatepec International Airport, Six Senses Xala will offer emotional hospitality as nature intended to guests seeking adventure, rejuvenation, and reconnection. -

We love the Six Senses brand and its high-end, wellness-focussed resorts.  Roll on 2026 !

Brazil's new eVisa - important update for travellers with passports from Australia, US and Canada
7 Dec

Passport holders from the U.S., Canada and Australia will need the new e- visa to enter Brazil by air starting January 10, 2024. If you have a valid physical visa on your passport for the purpose of your visit, you do not need to apply for a new visa. 

For more detailed information and to apply click here.

Major news - Alaska Airlines to acquire Hawaiian Airlines
4 Dec

Alaska Airlines announced yesterday that it will acquire Hawaiian Airlines.  The surprise move, which is subject to regulatory approvals, would vault Alaska into international expansion with a fleet including long-haul widebody jets flying across the Pacific Ocean to destinations in Japan, Korea, Australia and New Zealand.  Honolulu will become a major hub for the combined airline.

Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci said in an interview. “We become a bigger competitor against the big four airlines, United, Delta, American and Southwest.”

The acquisition appears to be a good cultural fit, as Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are both known to have a deep commitment to caring for their employees, guests and communities.

The deal will also open up new opportunities for Alaska, through Hawaiian's membership of the Oneworld alliance.

More details are yet to be announced, but I would expect Alaska's loyalty program to remain intact, with that of Hawaiian being absorbed into it somehow.

This is exciting news for travellers located in east Asia and the Pacific regions. 

Umana Bali opens as Hilton’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in SE Asia
29 Nov

The 72-villa Umana Bali opens, representing Hilton’s first luxury offering in South East Asia under its LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Introducing Umana Bali, Hilton's first luxury property in Southeast Asia under the LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

This stunning resort is located on the southern tip of Bali, offering breathtaking views of Melasti Beach and the Indian Ocean. The unique design of the property, with its terraces of limestone cliffs, is reminiscent of ancient rice paddy fields known as 'uma.'

The Resort

The resort features spacious one-bedroom villas with private pools and outdoor hot tubs, perfect for a luxurious getaway.

For larger groups or families, the three-bedroom Umana Pool Villa offers a 25-meter infinity pool and personalized butler service.

The resort also boasts a clifftop chapel for romantic sunset weddings, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a kids' club.

Wellness at the Spa

Guests can indulge in ancient healing practices and modern therapies at The Lohma Spa, including the signature Indonesian massage using energized gemstones.

Dining

The dining options at Umana Bali are exceptional, with over 80% of the ingredients sourced from local farms and their own hydroponic garden. Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed at the clifftop restaurant, Oliverra, while Commune offers South East Asian dishes with interactive cooking demonstrations.

The Pad Pool Bar serves handcrafted cocktails overlooking the ocean, and Mer Lounge allows guests to create their own refreshments from the minibar.

Coming soon

Coming in April 2024, Uma Beach House will offer a Miami-inspired design and delectable Peruvian cuisine.

Hilton Honors

Umana Bali is proud to be part of Hilton Honors, providing guests with even more benefits and rewards for their stay.

To further enhance this offer, book through Rewarding Travel to receive complimentary perks at no additional cost.  Rewarding Travel is our associated Travel Agency and is an affiliate of Fora Travel Inc.