The Best Palm Beach Hotels, Christian Louboutin's New Villas And More Travel News
The Britannic Explorer, the first luxury sleeper train to tour through England and Wales, made its inaugural journey in late July, marking a new milestone for British railways. Belmond, the LVMH-owned travel brand behind the new train, operates Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, The Royal Scotsman, and the British Pullman. The Britannic Explorer features eight cars with 18 suites, a spa, a bar and two glamorous dining cars.
In 2023, billionaire shoe designer Christian Louboutin opened his first boutique hotel, the 13-room Vermelho Melides on Portugal's Alentejo coast. This summer, Louboutin expanded his hospitality brand with the addition of two new villas—one that sleeps four and one that can accommodate up to six guests—for well-heeled (and red-soled) travelers who want a little more room and privacy.
'I still have my feet on the ground. I just wear better shoes.'This is the published version of Forbes' Passport newsletter, which offers a first-class guide to luxury travel. Click here to get it delivered to your inbox every Friday.
Those who turn left when they board a plane already know where the best seats are—but what about the worst? Middle seats are obviously worth avoiding but bulkhead and exit row seats come with their own problems. Here are some expert-guided principles for choosing the best (and safest) seats on your next flight.
For those who dream of retiring—or just relocating—to another country, there are some remarkably affordable destinations where you can live for around $2,000 a month. Here are three havens where you can live large for roughly the amount of the average Social Security check.
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Cosmopolitan
5 hours ago
- Cosmopolitan
Forest Lodge Details: Renovations, Worth, Photos, and Drama
Prince William and Kate Middleton are moving out of Adelaide Cottage! And while there were initial reports that the couple were heading to Fort Belvedere (which is basically a castle), it looks like they're going to a swanky spot called "Forest Lodge." Work on the property has already begun and Wills and Kate are eyeing a Christmas 2025 move-in, so clearly it's time to learn everything there is to know about this place. And yes, there's drama. Forest Lodge is a 328-year-old Georgian mansion that used to be called "Holly Grove," and is located on Great Windsor Park. It has eight bedrooms, a chandelier-lit ballroom, a tennis court, and extensive grounds—including several cottages where William and Kate's security and nanny will live, which you can see in the arial view below. Forest Lodge was built in the 1770s as a "grace-and-favour property" (meaning the royals let friends stay there for free), and was initially home to one of Edward VIII's equerries. Princess Margaret's private secretary then lived there in the 1990s, and the most recent tenants were Alex Fitzgibbons (who planned wedding receptions for William & Kate and Harry & Meghan) and his wife, Cristina Stenbeck. They moved out last year. Thanks to Forest Lodge being up for rent in 2001 (for a casual $15,000 a month), we have pics of the inside during its renovation—which features gorgeous fireplaces, plaster cornices, and Venetian windows. So gonna assume the price has only gone up! In other words, British taxpayers aren't footing the bill at all. And the renovation shouldn't break the bank for the couple thanks to William's access to the Duchy of Cornwall. A source tells The Sun that "Over the last few years while they have lived at Adelaide Cottage there have been some really difficult times. Moving gives them an opportunity for a fresh start and a new chapter; an opportunity to leave some of the more unhappy memories behind. This is a move for the long-term. They see it as their forever home." According to insider in the Daily Mail, "This is for the long term and it's their intention to stay in Forest Lodge once he becomes king." Another source added "They want to continue to do the school run, even if they are king and queen," while yet another source noted that "It's a fresh start for them after three really tough years. They are looking forward to creating many happy memories in their new home and leaving some of the unhappier ones behind." Per the Daily Mail, two families who live in nearby cottages were asked to "vacate their properties" ahead of William and Kate's move. Their homes had been rented out by the Crown Estate, so the royals are essentially in control of the leases. Per a source, "They were told to move out. I guess they were given somewhere else, but they were told they had to move. They were not expecting it. Those houses are very close to the lodge, so they're not going to want any Tom, Dick or Harry living in those houses if there are going to be royals there." The Sun claims Kate was seen picking out a 24-seat dining table at a storehouse that "houses surplus royal furniture and antiques." A source also noted that "This house is much larger than Adelaide Cottage. There is a dining room and drawing room which require substantial pieces of furniture." Welp, this has been an update!
Forbes
6 hours ago
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The Insider's Guide To Naples' Two Ritz-Carlton Resorts
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is a beacon of beachside luxury on Florida's Gulf Coast. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Sea turtles are fascinating creatures. Did you know that females typically lay between 80 to 100 eggs at a time? That means thousands of eggs make their way onto Naples, Florida, shores every year between May and October. Another thing: before the eggs hatch, the reptile's sex is determined by the temperature of the sand in which they're incubated. If it's cool enough, males are typically born. As things warm up, more females will appear. With two stellar Ritz-Carlton properties within four miles of each other, you'd think a similar phenomenon might play out when it comes to visitors choosing where to stay — if the forecast calls for heat and humidity, Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton, Naples' spectacular locale near the nesting turtles makes the most sense. If it feels cooler, the more-inland Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón could be the better option. But with so much to offer in the way of accommodations, activities and amazing food, both properties prove to be winners no matter the weather. Inside one of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples' coastal chic suites. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Arguably the crown jewel of Southwest Florida, coastal city Naples has an air of sophistication you can feel like a gulf breeze. At the heart of this refined aura since 1985 is The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. First birthdays, 50th wedding anniversaries and every milestone in between has been held at this property. The Ritz is looking back at 40 years of memorable moments with themed events throughout its own anniversary year. Room discounts ($19.85 for a third night), spa specials (an October menopause retreat) and an epicurean extravaganza (Naples Longest Table fundraiser in December) will all be a part of the celebration. The resort's even set up a commemorative website, where patrons can post photos and write about their past stays in a virtual scrapbook. Find good vibes and great views at Gumbo Limbo. DeMarco Williams If you'd rather focus on making new memories, there are plenty of opportunities to do that, too. A major renovation in 2023 gave the rooms a brighter, coastal feel with more tech. The polished Club Lounge in the new Vanderbilt Tower is an exclusive hideaway with all-day bites (like the delectable almond pound cake); a fully stocked, horseshoe-shaped bar; and a Club Kids' Room to keep the smallest guests occupied for a while. When it's time to dine, the culinary options are bountiful. If you're dying to wear that new linen two-piece ensemble, reserve a table at the Italian-flavored Nolita. When you're craving nigiri and a Negroni, stop by Dusk. And should you be in the mood for one of the best lobster quesadillas you've ever had, pull up a chair at Gumbo Limbo. The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón is a golf and tennis paradise. The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón If The Ritz-Carlton, Naples emphasizes barefoot elegance, this sister property less than 10 minutes away suggests lacing up your sneakers for a bit of Florida fun. The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón isn't near the beach — there is a shuttle, however, that runs between the properties every 30 minutes — but with so much going on at the country club-like resort with 295 Mediterranean-style rooms, chances are you won't miss the sand for a second. Tiburón Golf Club is composed of two Greg Norman-designed beauties that are surrounded by palm trees and native foliage. After you've tackled the gorgeous fairways and impeccably kept greens on the Black and Gold courses, have a drink or grab a bite at Sydney's Pub. Cool off after a busy day at the Reservoir waterpark. The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón For those who are more into rackets than clubs, the Mouratoglou Tennis Center, which operates under the leadership of Serena Williams' former coach Patrick Mouratoglou, welcomes everyone from children swinging their first backhand to former All-Americans trying to get the rust off. The teachers are patient pros. The facilities are spotless sanctuaries. After you've worked up a sweat or lost the golf bet, cool off at the Reservoir, the resort's waterpark that's outfitted with slides and a lazy river. When you get a hankering for food, walk over to Ria (Latin American cuisine) or Bella Vista Lounge (bar bites and adult beverages). You won't get a view of nesting sea turtles at Lemonía, but if you find the right spot on the terrace overlooking the golf course, you can catch a glimpse of a few birdies on the green and the occasional rabbit hopping along in the bushes. The seafood is spectacular at the Turtle Club. DeMarco Williams Great Stops In Between As much as we'd understand if you never left either Ritz-Carlton during your stay, we'd be remiss if we didn't advise you to explore the city. The off-property food scene is incredible. The waterfront Turtle Club is one of those community institutions that's survived everything — 2022's Hurricane Ian devastated this part of Florida and did a particularly rough number on the Vanderbilt Beach Resort where this restaurant sits — with a warm-smiling staff and wonderfully prepared seafood. Get whatever fresh catch the waiter suggests that day. But no matter what you order, make sure to start the meal with lemon aioli-covered calamari that's flash-fried to perfection. Get lost in Naples Botanical Garden's serenity. DeMarco Williams Another standout is Bar Tulia, an Italian-influenced restaurant in the middle of the Mercato shopping district. The place has a cozy, familial vibe (with black-and-white family photos on the wall) and a menu of delicious dishes like Sicilian meatballs and a Pecorino Romano-topped bucatini you'll wish you could replicate back home. When it's time to walk off your lunch, stop by Naples Botanical Garden for a delightful detour. The 16-year-old attraction keeps visitors coming back every year with lush permanent green spaces representing various corners of the globe while enticing curious new guests with temporary showings like photographer John Eder's vibrant 'The Way It Looked That Day' (through January 2026). MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Forbes Travel Guide's 6 Best Palm Beach Hotels By Forbes Travel Guide Forbes 27 Hotels With Luxury Car Collaborations By Melinda Sheckells Forbes Forbes Travel Guide's Best Hotel Bars For 2025 By Jennifer Kester Forbes From Anguilla To Australia, Forbes Travel Guide's 2025 Star Award Winners By Jennifer Kester
Business Insider
6 hours ago
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I had dinner for 2 at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. For $160, we thought it was a great value.
I recently dined with a friend at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The British-themed atmosphere was fun, and the appetizers blew us away. However, I'd skip the burger and go for a more classic entrée next time. I grew up in the United Kingdom, so I know my way around a classic British pub. When I learned that Gordon Ramsay has his own pub in the heart of Atlantic City, New Jersey, I'll admit I was a bit skeptical about how authentic the experience could be. Could it truly capture the smell of cheap beer, rustic interiors, and classic pub grub I'm used to? Still, I was eager to see for myself on a recent girls' trip. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill has two locations, one in Las Vegas and one in Atlantic City. With a big celebrity name and reputation as one of Britain's most famous chef exports, we had high expectations leading up to our meal. We left feeling satisfied and downright charmed by the British-themed atmosphere and jolly-good appetizers, but I left royally disappointed in my burger entrée. Here's what our experience was like dining at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill in Atlantic City. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill is located right in the heart of Caesars Atlantic City. I took an escalator up from the street level to the main floor of the casino and found that the restaurant was impossible to miss. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill is located directly across from Caesar's coin fountain and is framed by large Grecian pillars, giving it more of a Parthenon vibe than that of a traditional British pub. We could see the hotel's giant statue of Caesar and the coin fountain from our table. Ramsay has three restaurants in Atlantic City: Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, Gordon Ramsay Steak, and Hell's Kitchen. Hell's Kitchen and the pub are both located inside Caesars Atlantic City, meaning it would be easy to dine at both during your trip if you were staying at the resort. There are different dining areas inside Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. The restaurant is split into three main sections: a dining area with booths and tables overlooking the Caesars lobby, a lively bar, and a quieter side room with more secluded booths. The bar was by far the busiest when we visited at 7 p.m. on a Thursday — it was buzzing with conversation and clinking glasses. Many of the guests didn't seem to be eating dinner, but rather just grabbing a drink. The pillars out front might have given off a Grecian vibe, but inside, the decor was packed with British touches. In the main dining area, I was immersed in British flair, from a sweeping Buckingham Palace mural to silhouettes of stoic royal guards flanking the red booths. Of all the Gordon Ramsay restaurants I visited in Atlantic City — including Gordon Ramsay Steak and Hell's Kitchen — this one leaned the hardest into its British theme. The menu also reflected the British theme, with classic dishes like beef Wellington, fish and chips, and shepherd's pie. There was a mix of luxe red booths and tables with chairs. The booths had an upscale pub vibe and looked invitingly comfortable. We were seated at a two-top in the back, with a view of Caesars' main lobby. The chatter of fellow diners and the flow of people passing through the lobby gave the restaurant a lively, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant had a large selection of signature cocktails. Many of the signature cocktails embraced the British theme, sporting names like "Mind the Gap" ($17.99) and "Lost in Great Britain" ($17.99). I ordered the Lost in Great Britain, a blackberry spritz with tequila and lemon-honey syrup. My friend ordered the Mind the Gap, which was made with vodka, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, lime, ginger beer, and passion fruit. We liked the presentation of both cocktails and felt they were decently priced for the quality of the ingredients and liquor used. My cocktail was light and refreshing, but with a slight tartness from the blackberry syrup. The tartness of the blackberry cut through the sweetness of the lemon-honey syrup, and it paired well with all of the dishes we tried. We ordered the Buffalo cauliflower as our appetizer. The Buffalo cauliflower ($17.99) came in a large portion with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping. It was a fun play on the classic bar food Buffalo wings, but felt slightly more elevated. We couldn't stop eating this appetizer. The cauliflower was fried to golden perfection in a light, airy tempura batter. The Buffalo sauce brought just the right amount of heat, which was mellowed by the creamy richness of blue cheese crumbles. A tangy extra side of blue cheese sauce added another layer of flavor, tying everything together into a dish that was bold, balanced, and seriously addictive. It was more than enough to satisfy two people, yet we were still disappointed when we finally cleaned the plate. I ordered the most classic burger on the menu. The pub's dinner menu offers three burger choices. The burger menu includes the Idiot Burger ($21.99), topped with white cheddar, gruyere, cremini mushrooms, spicy tomato chutney, and braised short ribs; the Blue Cheese Burger ($21.99), with spicy aioli, Bibb lettuce, frisée, onions, and blue cheese dressing; and the Pub Burger ($21.99) — my pick for the evening. The Pub Burger came topped with lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese, pickles, and bacon. It was the most traditional burger on the menu, though it featured a few elevated touches like a prime sirloin patty and a red wine glaze. The burger wasn't anything to cross the pond for. A crisp lettuce leaf and two thick tomato slices topped the burger, while Farmhouse English cheddar blanketed the patty. A few strips of bacon struck the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. It was a solid, classic burger with a juicy patty and fresh toppings, though I found myself wishing for an extra flourish — maybe a savory special sauce or a sharper cheese. For what it was, it delivered, but it reminded me of burgers I've had at chain restaurants like Chili's or Applebee's, which usually come at a slightly lower price. In the end, this burger left me feeling like I'd had a jolly decent meal, but not one worth crossing the pond (or the casino floor) for. I was really impressed by the fries that came with my burger. Crispy and perfectly seasoned, the fries arrived wrapped in newspaper-printed paper. I loved the presentation, which really captured the charm of a classic British chip shop. We also ordered a side of baked mac and cheese to share. The baked mac and cheese ($15.99) came in a red ramekin dish, in keeping with the pub's British theme. The mac and cheese is made with cellentani pasta and English Farmhouse cheddar, the same cheese used on my burger. The mac and cheese was rich and flavorful. The smattering of breadcrumbs and chives on top of the mac and cheese enhanced the cheese's flavor, coating every noodle. We also thought it was a generous portion, but we felt the price was a little steep for a side dish. It was enough for a shared side, but we wouldn't recommend ordering it as an entrée — it might not be big enough to truly satisfy. My friend ordered the chicken Milanese as her entrée. The chicken Milanese ($34.99) was served with Dijon cream sauce, gruyère cheese, arugula, and a grain mustard vinaigrette. My friend said that although the dish was simple, it was "phenomenal" and one of the best chicken dishes she's ever had at a chain restaurant. She said the mustard vinaigrette added a delicious tart flavor to the juicy chicken breast, and the arugula was well-dressed without being too soggy. The cheese was sharp without being overbearing, and the chicken was well-fried with an airy panko breading that gave the dish a lighter feel. Overall, she said she'd definitely order this dish again. I would go back to Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, but I'd order a different entrée. With tip and tax, the total cost of our meal came to $162.43 for two entrées, one appetizer, a side dish, and two cocktails. While I was impressed by the refreshing cocktails, mouthwatering Buffalo cauliflower, and creamy mac-and-cheese side dish, I was left feeling underwhelmed by my burger. If I were to return, I'd probably opt for a more decadent burger with more interesting toppings, or one of the restaurant's signature British dishes like fish and chips or the beef Wellington. Overall, if you're looking for a crowd-pleasing restaurant at a relatively affordable price in Atlantic City, Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill fits the bill.
