Each December, Folio.YVR turns its gaze outward, revisiting the journeys, properties, and experiences that defined the year through the lens of Travel & Hospitality. This annual issue is both a reflection and a curated invitation, re-sharing the stories that resonated most deeply with our readers in 2025, and celebrating travel that is intentional, design-driven, and rooted in a sense of place.
Europe: Slow Luxury And Cultural Immersion
Our European section is anchored by Riverside Luxury Cruises aboard The Mozart, a journey along the Danube that redefined river cruising for us. From Budapest and Vienna through the storybook landscapes of Slovakia and beyond, this experience showcased how thoughtful design, refined service, and unhurried exploration can elevate travel into something deeply restorative. Culinary moments were equally defining, with Chef Johannes Bar bringing precision, creativity, and regional reverence to each menu, reinforcing the ship’s commitment to destination-driven dining.
On land, Hotel Motto in Austria delivered a compelling blend of heritage architecture and modern hospitality, while Amhof 8 private club offered a discreet, members-only perspective on Viennese luxury, where culture, conversation, and design converge behind closed doors. Viajur Winery and Carpe Diem Winery in the Little Carpathian region provided an intimate look at Central Europe’s emerging wine narrative, grounded in craftsmanship and regional pride. We also followed Stefano Ricci’s expanding Italian wine offerings, a natural evolution of the brand’s commitment to excellence, and Ireland’s Glendalough Distillery, where provenance and innovation coexist with remarkable clarity.
United States: Elevated Indulgence In Las Vegas
In the US, Las Vegas emerged as a study in modern indulgence. eight Lounge at Resorts World LV set the tone for refined evenings, pairing atmosphere with intention, while Montecristo Cigar Bar delivered a masterclass in legacy luxury, creating a space where tradition, conversation, and design intersect without excess.
Canada: A Homegrown Expression Of Excellence
Closer to home, Canada’s stories reminded us why British Columbia continues to command global attention. Mission Hill Family Estate and Martin’s Lane Winery exemplified architectural vision paired with terroir-driven storytelling, while The Vancouver Club offered a contemporary interpretation of private hospitality. At Fairmont Waterfront, ARC Restaurant and The Apiary demonstrated how urban luxury can remain connected to community, seasonality, and responsible sourcing. We close the issue with the relaunch of the Tai Pan Penthouse at the Metropolitan Hotel, a moment that signals a renewed chapter for one of Vancouver’s most iconic addresses.
As we look ahead to 2026, we encourage our readers to travel with intention. Eco-luxury is no longer a niche, it is a responsibility. Whether selecting accommodations, experiences, or destinations, sustainability should be part of the decision-making process. Thoughtful travel enriches not only our lives, but the places and communities we are privileged to explore.
Cheers to a new year of travel and hospitality!
Helen Siwak, EIC & Publisher
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].
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