Latest news with #Michelin-inspired
Euronews
18-04-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Floating homes and Michelin meals: This new cruise promises a permanent holiday
ADVERTISEMENT If you've ever lamented that your holiday is over too soon, one cruise line has an enticing offer – if you have a few million euros to spare, that is. Newly launched Crescent Seas, founded by former Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings chairman Russell Galbut, is offering 'floating homes' on its forthcoming fleet of residential cruise ships. The first of these ships is due to set sail in 2026. But a permanent residence comes with an eye-watering price tag. The lowest price starts at €570,000. The highest? A jaw-dropping €8.8 million. This cruise travels the world and never ends The company's first ship, a refitted version of the Regent Seven Seas Navigator, will host 210 private residences and embark on a global voyage , starting in December 2026. Forever cruisers can expect four-day port stops in destinations like the Seychelles, Singapore, Iceland and Barcelona, with onshore excursions designed to immerse travellers in local cultures . Three ships have already been confirmed: Navigator, Insignia – a former Oceania Cruises vessel set to relaunch in 2027 – and a new one dubbed The Ocean, expected to be finished in 2032. Two additional ships are in the pipeline for 2028 and 2029. Onboard, Crescent Seas promises all the trappings of ultra-luxury living, from Michelin-inspired restaurants, wellness centres and Starlink-powered co-working spaces to cooking classes and '6-star' service by white-gloved butlers. Related Mayor of Nice vows to ban 'floating hotels': Will he be able to ban cruises by the summer? Why your Caribbean cruise could cost more: Mexico introduces a new tourist tax Residents are also required to purchase around €30,000 worth of annual food and beverage credits. 'As a developer, I know real estate has always been defined by location, location, location, as we say. With Crescent Seas, we've eliminated that limitation,' Galbut told The Telegraph. 'Now, your home isn't bound to a single address – it moves with you, taking you to the world's most breathtaking destinations.' From the seven seas to space, the ultra-rich look beyond Crescent Seas isn't the only venture offering the wealthy a radical rethinking of how – and where – we live. While some opt for floating mansions, others have looked to the stars. From Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic to Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin, billionaire executives have put space tourism on the map for the world's elite. Earlier this year, US-based company Space Perspective opened bookings for its space balloon experience. For around €120,000, travellers can ascend to the stratosphere in a capsule the size of a lounge room, complete with a bar and bathroom. Related From wine-soaked spa treatments to living like a rockstar: Europe's most unusual luxury hotels 'You're guaranteed not to see a soul': Is this forest hideaway Europe's best spa? Elon Musk's Space X , meanwhile, has set sight on Mars. Though a one-way ticket is not yet on sale, applications for future missions have already opened, and some ultra-wealthy pioneers are queuing up to trade beachfront views for an expanse of red dust. Back on Earth, entire islands in places like the Maldives are being sold to buyers seeking the ultimate seclusion – like a gated community surrounded by the ocean. ADVERTISEMENT 'Homes that move with you' Crescent Seas isn't the first floating home for the super-rich, either. The World, a condo-like residential ship, has been circumnavigating the globe since 2002. Then there's Ville Vie's Odyssey. Billed as the world's first perpetual cruise , the ship offers multi-year, residence-style packages starting at around €2 million. Crescent Seas is aiming for a balance of both – privacy and full-time ownership, with the bonus of global adventure. 'Imagine travelling the world without ever leaving the comfort of your own home,' said Marisa Galbut, president of Crescent Seas. ADVERTISEMENT For those with millions to spend, the dream of a home that moves with you, whether through the waves or the stratosphere, is no longer the stuff of fantasy, as the limits of luxury travel drift further from solid ground.
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Yahoo
What's it really like going on a Virgin Voyages cruise?
When I told my mum that I was going on a cruise for the first time, she was the most excited she had ever been about a plan of mine. While I was also thrilled to be seeing the sun for a week when in England it was -1 degree, to say I was anxious was an understatement. I was nervous about the process of embarking, what would be on board, and who I might be likely to meet – is it like being on a cheesy all-inclusive holiday but on the sea, so you can't even escape with a long drive to explore a local supermarket? Will the communal spaces be crammed? What's the water pressure going to be like in the shower? You know, important things. So if like me, you have been cruise-curious for a while, allow me to talk you through my time on-board the Scarlett Lady; a Virgin Voyages Western Caribbean Charm cruise which heads to Honduras, Mexico and the Bahamas. Getting on the ship, especially as a 'Rockstar' (I do cringe a bit when I say that but after a couple of days, you lean into it) is very seamless. We flew to Miami and then docked from there. As a 'Rockstar' (aka a VIP guest, which means it's slightly more expensive but you get access to more perks), you have a special entrance and a valet to pick up your bags, and you get to board ahead of other sailors. But having spoken to other guests the standard checking and boarding process is pretty painless too. It kind of reminded me of the process of boarding the Eurostar, with the mini passport control and security. Without a shadow of doubt, the best thing about this cruise is the quality of the food and drink. As soon as you step on board, virtually all food is free (bar a few surcharge items like caviar, oysters and lobster, natch) and we aren't talking a standard buffet here, people. Yes, there are quick options available and we can get into that, but the most impressive (and tasty) meal options were the restaurants. The ship boasts so many spots where you can book in and dine on a three-course, Michelin-inspired meal. On most ships, any dining outside of the centralised dining area is charged extra, so it did feel like a treat. The best restaurant IMO was The Wake (odd name but appaz it's because it's at the back of the ship and that's what the water's called back there. Still when you're saying 'Oh I'm looking forward to going to The Wake' it sounds odd). I could have happily stayed on board for two weeks eating and drinking my way up and down the ship. The main dining area was also such good quality food; I particular loved the ramen, tacos and burgers *drools*... Our cabin, which was a Sea Terrace, was really sweet. Me and my bestie happily share a bed but you can split the double into two singles, easily. The cabin lights, curtains and entertainment are all controlled via a tablet which is simple to navigate. There are only a few live channels but being that we are in the middle of the sea, I didn't expect them to have amazing signal for cable. The catalogue of movies and shows that were preloaded was more than enough for us to pop on when we were getting ready or winding down. As ships go, this one's not the biggest but it has a lot of things to keep you occupied. It had a lil glow up last year and everything felt pretty shiny and new, but that could also be down to the fact that ship is for over 18s only. As the weather was not on our side throughout the trip, we really rinsed the entertainment schedule and had fun doing it. From the themed parties (the Pyjama Party was my fave) to the casino and karaoke rooms, if you're bored on this ship, then I would look inwardly, for real. If a little quiet time and relaxation is needed, we loved the spa which can be booked on-board. A shoutout to bungee class too, because the amount we laughed at the fact that we were swinging up and down in the middle of the sea worked my abs better than any gym class ever has. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, a few of our on-shore excursions were cancelled, but we did get to enjoy a tour of Mayan ruins when we docked in Mexico. It was amazing to see the history up close, even in the worst bout of rain I have ever experienced outside of the UK. I viewed it all through sunscreen and mascaras running into my eyes, but our guide remained so upbeat we had to laugh. Shore things (again, we lean into the Virgin Voyages lingo) can all be booked on the app super seamlessly, but IRL you can book on board too, which is handy if you aren't sure what you want to do day-to-day. I would say that they do get booked up quickly so if there is something you absolutely want to do, I would book ahead. It feels counterintuitive, but bring a couple of jumpers in your suitcase. They keep the ship pretty consistently cool which is pleasant when it's scorching outside but if you run cold, or the weather is chilly, you might find it a bit cold at shows and dinners and the deck is obviously quite breezy at night when you're sailing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akesha Reid (@keeksreid) All tipping is included in your on-board payment, so you don't need to worry about bringing bundles of cash on board. I would suggest bringing some for tipping when you get off the boat. 'Western Caribbean Charm' 6-night sailing on Scarlet Lady Departing from Miami and calling at Costa Maya, Roatán and Bimini. Sun, Nov 09 – Sat, Nov 15 Insider cabins from £1,477 You Might Also Like A ranking of the very best hair straighteners - according to our Beauty Editors Best party dresses to shop in the UK right now 11 products you'd be mad to miss from the Net A Porter beauty sale
Khaleej Times
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Top weekend events in UAE: Guided meditation, Michelin dining and more from March 7-9
The weekend is here, so is our guide to best events and activities around the country. Here's the list: Guided meditation and sound healing Experience tranquility this Ramadan at Nuska Garden, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, with guided meditation and sound healing sessions powered by Lululemon. Join before Suhoor on March 8 (International Women's Day) at 9pm or before Iftar on March 22 (UAE Mother's Day) at 5pm, followed by iftar and suhoor at the Ramadan Garden. Pricing: Iftar at Dh310 per person, suhoor at Dh210 per person. Reserve your spot: 04 406 8056. Michelin-inspired menu at a cafe Armani/Caffè at Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue debuts a limited-edition Michelin-inspired menu by Chef Giovanni Papi of the Michelin-starred Armani/Ristorante, available for lunch and dinner. The menu features refined Italian dishes like Golden Burrata, Wagyu-filled Tortelli, and Cioccolato dessert, priced at Dh300 per person, including non-alcoholic bubbly. This exclusive pop-up brings Michelin-level dining to Dubai Mall. Reservations: 04 362 7888. Celebrate International Women's Day Chalet Berezka on The Palm celebrates International Women's Day with a special evening on March 8, featuring music, surprises, and exclusive gifts for women. The night begins at 10pm with a mesmerising Art Program, followed by a live concert at midnight by Ukrainian singer Mikhail Bublik, known for blending Russian folk with pop-rock. Join for an unforgettable celebration of beauty, strength, and grace. Reservations: 052 156 7405. Special set menu packages starting from Dh399. New dining concept Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa unveils The Beam, a charming, European-inspired bistro led by Chef Nick Alvis, offering fresh, seasonal, and responsibly sourced dishes in a warm and inviting setting. Nestled in the resort's iconic gardens, The Beam serves elevated yet unpretentious cuisine, from truffle braised beef cheek to hot smoked Scottish salmon and handcrafted desserts. Guests can enjoy an impressive seafood counter, in-house bakery, and a curated beverage menu. Open daily from 5pm (weekdays) and 1pm (weekends). Kids eat free Coterie, Ibn Battuta's beloved British restaurant, is launching Kids Eat Free every Sunday from March 9, 12–6pm, where kids under 12 dine free with a full-paying adult. Families can enjoy Dubai's best Sunday Roast, including the new Wagyu Topside Roast, with classic beef, lamb, chicken, and vegan options. Sports fans can catch live football, rugby, cricket, golf, and F1 across 20+ TVs, while Happy Hour runs from 12-4pm. Roasts start at Dh135, served Saturdays from 6pm and Sundays from 12pm. Book now: 058 566 4240. Fusion of art and cuisine DRIFT Dubai presents a special collaboration with French artist Adrien Marcos, showcasing his luminous binary sculptures until the end of March. Known for creating bespoke pieces for Louis Vuitton, Marcos now brings his visionary art to DRIFT. To celebrate the exhibition, Chef Sylvain Noel introduces a limited-edition chocolate dessert inspired by Marcos' Jumeirah piece, honoring Palm Jumeirah, available for Dh85. Experience this unique fusion of art and cuisine at DRIFT Restaurant, One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai.
