Recognised by Condé Nast Traveler as one of 'The Best New Hotels in the World 2024', Casa Lucia is a luxury boutique hotel located in the neoclassical Edificio Mihanovich - once the tallest building in Latin America - on Calle Arroyo in Buenos Aires' chic Recoleta neighbourhood.

The hotel's light-filled, atrium lobby covered by a glass-roof acts as a tranquil courtyard with cosy seating areas, flanked by the Cantina restaurant and the chic Le Club Bacan cocktail bar. The 142 spacious rooms and suites have been carefully designed with modern and timeless décor, combining fine materials such as warm woods and elegant marble. Selected rooms have balconies with sweeping views of the city and river. Amenities include 24-hour room service, a fitness centre, a wellness spa and a subterranean swimming pool.

Meliá Hotels International continues to expand its presence in Argentina with the recent launch of two new properties under the 'Affiliated by Meliá' brand in Buenos Aires in November 2024.
Almarena Puerto Retiro, Affiliated by Meliá offers 73 fully equipped apartments with views of the port and the River La Plata. Inaugurated in 2023, the hotel features a spa and wellness centre, outdoor pool, Pilates studio and state-of-the-art business facilities, including meeting rooms and an auditorium.
Almarena Madero Urbano, Affiliated by Meliá, located next to Puerto Madero, offers 78 modern apartments with integrated kitchens. It also has a large swimming pool, saunas, a fitness centre and versatile meeting and event facilities.
Meliá's expansion in Argentina doesn't stop here. The Innside Costa del Este, a 4*-hotel with 88 rooms and 60 apartments is being built in the coastal region south of Buenos Aires (opening date to be announced). In addition, the Gran Meliá Ushuaia, a 5*-luxury resort in Tierra del Fuego is planned. This landmark 200-room property is scheduled to open in 2028.

Located in an elegant neo-baroque mansion in Buenos Aires' prestigious Recoleta neighbourhood, Grand Brizo BelAir reopened in July 2024 after a complete renovation. Part of the Alvarez Argüelles Hotels, this 4*-boutique hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comforts.
The bright, stylish rooms feature contemporary furnishings, while the themed suites on the top floor have private balconies overlooking Plaza Vicente López. Guests can enjoy creative cuisine paired with fine wines at Tierra Restaurant, or relax at the Lounge Bar, a green oasis offering delicious creations from the Chef Pâtissier. For relaxation, the Estado Puro Spa offers hydrotherapy pools, saunas and wellness treatments, complemented by a fully equipped gym.

Marriott International is set to transform the iconic Hotel Tropical Manaus into Brazil's first Tribute Portfolio Hotel, part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection. Honouring its original colonial architecture, the hotel aims to immerse guests in the vibrant culture of the Amazon, while offering world-class amenities. 

Opening in phases from July 2025, the hotel will feature spacious rooms and suites, as well as a wave pool, fitness centre, spa, sports courts, children's areas and dining options, including a panoramic restaurant overlooking the Rio Negro. Future additions include an orchidarium, a chapel and a pier for Amazon River tours.

W São Paulo, the first W hotel in Brazil, has opened its doors in the heart of Vila Olímpia, bringing bold design, Brazilian-inspired luxury and panoramic city views to this dynamic metropolis. Located in a skyscraper, the 179 stylish rooms, including 16 suites, begin on the 25th floor and offer breathtaking views of São Paulo, while the hotel's vibrant energy is showcased through its striking architecture, cutting-edge interiors and curated experiences - from live DJ sets to culinary experiences and wellness programmes. Highlights include three dining venues such as L40 Cozinha de Latitude on the 40th floor, two signature bars, the AWAY Spa with treatments inspired by the Brazilian biomes (due to open in March 2025), and the WET Deck with outdoor pool.

The newly reopened Sol Grand Premium in Costa do Sauípe, 76 km from Salvador Bahia Airport, offers a refined all-inclusive experience, combining classic Provençal and Italian-inspired architecture with modern luxury. The 256 renovated suites feature contemporary designs with light colours and harmonious textures, complemented by modern amenities. The hotel's all-inclusive concept enhances the dining options, including Tempero Restaurant, which features live cooking stations and an exciting buffet selection. Surrounded by white-sand beaches, guests enjoy a private pool, fitness centre and access to all the entertainment venues within the Costa do Sauípe complex.

With Hotel Rio Guayas by Art Hotels Ecuador, the city of Guayaquil welcomes a new, highly anticipated 5* Boutique Hotel located in the heart of the historic Las Peñas neighbourhood. 

Blending modern sophistication with Ecuador's rich cultural heritage, the hotel features thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, state-of-the-art amenities, and a seamless blend of contemporary design and local craftsmanship. With breathtaking views of the Guayas River, guests will enjoy gourmet cuisine, a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. The hotel will also showcase local art and host exhibitions, providing an authentic connection to the vibrant spirit of Ecuador - an experience synonymous with its sister properties: Mama Cuchara (Quito), Hotel Otavalo and Cruz del Vado (Cuenca). 

Finch Bay, the only beachfront eco-hotel in Santa Cruz, has added six new Evolution Suites enhancing its accommodation offering. These suites are part of a newly constructed block and are in line with the hotel's commitment to sustainability, following its major investment in renewable energy in 2024. Designed for comfort and flexibility, they feature spacious interiors, adaptable bed configurations (1 King or 2 Twin beds) and views of either the ocean or the surrounding gardens. The Evolution Suites offer an elevated guest experience in the heart of the Galapagos, while maintaining a strong connection to the natural environment.

M/C Hermes is the first ultra-luxury mega-catamaran to sail the pristine waters of the Galapagos Islands. Designed for exclusivity and comfort, Hermes accommodates up to 20 guests, offering an intimate experience with a crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1. 

Each of the 12 spacious suites has floor-to-ceiling windows, a private balcony and a Jacuzzi with stunning ocean views. The superyacht can also offer a 70m2 (754ft2) owner’s suite upon request combining two interconnecting suites on the main deck. Guests can explore the islands by day on expertly guided excursions and then relax on board with butler service, a rejuvenating session in the hammam or a selection from the complimentary premium beverage menu.

Combining the intimacy of a small vessel with the amenities of a larger cruise ship, M/C Hermes redefines luxury travel to the breathtaking landscapes of the Galapagos.

The iconic Cumbres Puerto Varas Hotel, a cornerstone of Chile's Lake District, has returned under new ownership as the Wyndham Puerto Varas Pettra in January 2025. Overlooking Lake Llanquihue and the Osorno Volcano, and within walking distance to the town centre, this Patagonian-style hotel combines traditional charm with modern comforts.
Guests can enjoy panoramic lake views from the cosy lounge with fireplace and restaurant serving traditional Chilean cuisine. The 90 guest rooms and suites, some with large windows and balconies, are decorated with neutral colours, local woods and regional décor. Amenities include a spa with sauna and steam room, heated indoor pool, hot tub and fitness centre.

Tierra Atacama, named one of the 'Best Hotels in the World' by Travel + Leisure 2024, is set to reopen in April 2025 following an extensive renovation led by founder Miguel Purcell and renowned architects Rodrigo Searle and Matías González.

The redesign of the rooms & suites emphasises the use of native materials and local craftsmanship, and encourages collaboration with the community. More than 40 artisans and designers have contributed unique pieces that blend cultural heritage with modern elegance.

As one of three lodges operated by Chile-based Tierra Hotels, this intimate all-inclusive resort offers guests attentive, personalised service and a range of activities to choose from for an authentic and immersive experience of the Atacama Desert.

Located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, Las Torres Patagonia has reopened for the 2024/2025 season following a remarkable renovation that combines contemporary elegance with the natural beauty of Chilean Patagonia. The 74 superior rooms and junior suites now feature porcelain tiles inspired by the park's landscapes, modern glass door showers, bed headboards in wood, linen, and subtle lighting. The rustic corridors retain their large windows framing breathtaking views of Mount Almirante Nieto.
Guests can choose half board (breakfast and dinner) or an all-inclusive package that includes gourmet cuisine, handcrafted beverages and a full range of tours and activities. Each guest receives an eco-friendly welcome kit, including a waterproof rucksack and dry bag made from 95% recycled materials. Further upgrades to the restaurant, bar and public areas are planned for next year, creating an even more immersive experience in Patagonia's wilderness.

Opening in mid-2025, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena will bring a perfect blend of colonial romance and modern luxury to Colombia's Caribbean coast. The hotel will comprise a collection of beautifully restored landmarks such as the 16th-century San Francisco Temple and the Beaux-Arts Club Cartagena, celebrating the city's rich history while offering the brand's renowned five-star service. Located in the art-filled neighbourhood of Getsemaní, just steps from the historic walled city, the hotel will feature 131 elegant rooms, including specialty suites, eight restaurants and bars, a rooftop with two pools, and the serene UMARI Spa, offering indulgent treatments inspired by the region's heritage.

Starting in March 2025, AmaWaterways will introduce the first luxury river cruises on Colombia's Magdalena River between Cartagena and Barranquilla, with two purpose-built ships, AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia. Each ship accommodates approx. 60 guests in spacious twin-balcony staterooms (22-48 sqm/ 237-516 sq ft), with amenities including a sundeck pool, spa treatments and locally inspired cuisine.
The two 7-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, include expert-led excursions to destinations such as Mompox, Nueva Venecia and Palenque, with unique experiences such as boat rides, bird watching, an exclusive year-round Carnaval celebration in Barranquilla and live cumbia performances in El Banco.
In addition, SAT is pleased to offer pre- and post-cruise tours to ensure a seamless and enriching travel experience.

Opened in 2024, the OSH Hotel in Cartagena's cool Getsemaní neighbourhood is a modern and cosy haven with 138 uniquely styled rooms, two inviting pools, a state-of-the-art gym and a breathtaking rooftop with panoramic views. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the chic rooftop bar, Ajena, or taste modern Colombian cuisine at the hotel's restaurant. Designed for travellers seeking comfort, connection and unique experiences, OSH Hotel Cartagena perfectly blends local charm with global flair - each room promises its own Instagram-worthy moment.

The owners of Casa San Agustín, a luxury boutique hotel in Cartagena, have unveiled a new, exclusive experience: Acasí Rustic Beach, an intimate destination on the Barú Peninsula, just an hour from Cartagena. Nestled on a private beach of white sand and turquoise waters, this tranquil retreat features six rustic beach bungalows overlooking the Caribbean Sea and a beachfront restaurant serving authentic Colombian cuisine with a tropical twist - perfect for a romantic getaway where luxury meets nature in a prime beach paradise.

Set to become the largest luxury resort in South America, Cipriani Resort Residences & Casino in Punta del Este is scheduled to open in late 2025. Designed by renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, the project will feature three iconic residential towers (ranging from 30 to 60 floors) and a meticulous reconstruction of the historic Tudor-style Hotel San Rafael. The resort will offer an array of world-class amenities, including a casino, conference centre, three gourmet restaurants, spa, beach club, luxury boutiques, indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art gym with meditation and yoga rooms, and a golf simulator. With a legacy of elegance and attention to detail, the Cipriani family - famous for its properties in New York, London, Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong - brings its signature sophistication to this new destination.

New:
Dallas - Rio de Janeiro 

American Airlines has re-launched non-stop service between Dallas (DFW) & Rio (GIG) from 27 October 2024. Flights operate daily: DFW - GIG at 19:10-8:20+1 and GIG - DFW at 10:30-6:10+1 (local times). This route strengthens AA's South American network from Dallas, which also includes São Paulo, Bogotá, Buenos Aires & Santiago.

New:
São Paulo - Alta Floresta

Azul Airlines is launching a new direct flight from São Paulo (Viracopos) to Alta Floresta, starting 11 March 2025! This new route will make it easier than ever to reach the luxurious Cristalino Lodge in the Southern Amazon. Flights will operate three times a week on Tue, Thu & Sun: VCP - AFL at 12:55-14:50 and AFL - VCP at 15:35-19:30.

Qatar Airways is launching a new service between Doha (DOH) in Qatar & Bogotá (BOG) from early summer 2025. Flights will operate twice weekly on Wed & Sun, continuing on to Caracas (CCS) in Venezuela. The return flight from Caracas will be non-stop to Doha. Qatar Airways is the only airline to offer direct flights from the Middle East to Colombia.