After over a century of grandeur, decline, and closure, one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks is being brought back to life. Hotel Gellért, once a beacon of high society on the banks of the Danube, is undergoing a full restoration — and it’s set to reopen in 2027 as part of the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.

From Faded Gem to Modern Marvel

Originally opened in 1918, Hotel Gellért was a showpiece of Hungarian Art Nouveau design. With its ornate architecture, pioneering features, and glamorous guests, it quickly became one of Europe’s premier luxury destinations. Over the decades, it welcomed royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood stars — from Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Richard Nixon and Jane Fonda.

But time wasn’t kind. After surviving wars, revolutions, and communism, the hotel’s charm eventually gave way to age. By the time it closed in 2019, the once-grand interiors had grown tired, and the building stood as a dusty shadow of its former self. Only the adjacent thermal baths, still a popular attraction, remained in operation.

A Vision for the Future — Rooted in the Past

Now, thanks to a major investment by Hungary’s BDPST Group, the Hotel Gellért is being reimagined for a new era. The full-scale renovation, which began in late 2024, is being carried out under strict heritage preservation guidelines. Every detail — from the coffered ceilings to the historic Gobelin Room — is being restored using original blueprints and archival photos.

The new Gellért will feature 134 rooms, including 34 suites, combining classic elegance with modern comforts. British design studio Alexander Waterworth Interiors is handling the decor, while Hungarian firm Archikon Architects is leading the architectural work.

Hidden details are already reemerging. During recent renovations, original decorative motifs and design elements long buried under Communist-era renovations have been uncovered — proof of the building’s storied craftsmanship.

A Legacy of Innovation

What made the Gellért extraordinary in its day wasn’t just the decor — it was innovation. At a time when few hotels had telephones, every room here did. Some suites had piped-in thermal water or even carbonated taps. It offered Hungary’s first airport shuttle, and guests could pay in foreign currencies. Even a wave pool graced its famous spa.

“From the beginning, the Gellért was ahead of its time,” says Zoltán Kecskeméthy, managing director of BDPST Real Estate Development. “We want to honor that spirit of progress while respecting the soul of the place.”

A Local Treasure, Reimagined for the World

The team behind the transformation doesn’t just want to create another luxury hotel — they want to restore a national treasure.

“This isn’t just a building,” says Kecskeméthy. “It’s a symbol of Hungarian identity. Our goal is to make international guests feel part of a larger story — and to help locals reconnect with a place that once belonged to them.”

That mission includes reviving the Gellért’s role as a hub of local life. New restaurants will be designed to appeal not just to tourists, but to Budapest residents as well — much like in the hotel’s heyday. A rooftop sky bar will add a fresh, contemporary twist to the hotel’s offerings.

A Cultural Landmark Reawakens

Hungarian National Museum Director-General Gábor Zsigmond emphasizes the hotel’s unique role in the city’s history.

“The Gellért has always been more than just a place to stay,” he explains. “It’s been a setting for major social events, a retreat for the famous, and a striking example of Hungarian architecture. Its future lies in blending that rich heritage with modern luxury.”

While the famed Gellért Baths will continue to operate under city management, a new in-house spa — run by Mandarin Oriental — will offer curated wellness experiences. Every decision, from the spa design to its treatment offerings, is being crafted with timeless appeal in mind.

A Grand Return in 2027

As the Mandarin Oriental Gellért prepares to reopen its doors, the restoration team is confident that the hotel’s next chapter will honor its past while looking boldly toward the future.

“It’s about more than bricks and mortar,” says Kecskeméthy. “We’re restoring pride, reviving memories, and creating something new that the world — and Budapest — can be proud of.”

Source: CNN – It had become a shabby relic. Now one of Europe’s grandest hotels is being restored to its former glory

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This week’s travel roundup brings you everything from record-breaking feats to quirky new attractions. Let’s dive in.

Breaking Records Around the World

The World’s Tallest Bridge – Coming Soon in China

China’s Guizhou province, already home to nearly half of the world’s 100 tallest bridges, is about to claim another title. This June, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge will officially open. So, what makes this bridge stand out? At 2,051 feet (625 meters) above the river, it will surpass France’s iconic Millau Viaduct by an impressive 947 feet. This new marvel will not only make waves for its height but will also drastically reduce travel time across the canyon, slashing it from two hours down to just one minute.

A Record-Breaking Brewery in the Sky

In Singapore, a unique title has been claimed by LeVel33, the world’s highest microbrewery located inside a building. Perched on the 33rd floor of the Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower, the brewery boasts 12 brewing tanks, two copper kettles, and even a cooling machine—all lifted up by crane. For beer lovers, the stunning views over the Singapore skyline make it a must-visit spot.

The World’s Largest Chicken-Shaped Building? In the Philippines!

Now for something a little more unusual: a Guinness World Record for the largest building shaped like a chicken. Located in the Philippines, this quirky hotel stands 114 feet tall and is fully air-conditioned. While it may not offer traditional windows, it’s certainly an eye-catching landmark.

Disney’s Biggest Cruise Ship Sets Sail

Later this year, Disney will launch its biggest cruise ship ever, the 6,000-passenger Disney Adventure. This massive vessel will be the cruise line’s first ship based in Asia, marking a significant milestone in Disney’s global expansion.

The World’s Tiniest Park

In a more modest feat, the world’s smallest park has been recognized in the Japanese town of Nagaizumi, about 68 miles southwest of Tokyo. At just 2.6 square feet, the park features a tiny stool and a patch of greenery. Sometimes, small is mighty!

Epic Adventures

A Solo Trek Across the Empty Quarter

Saudi explorer Badr Al Shaibani made headlines by completing a 600-kilometer (370-mile) solo journey across the Empty Quarter, the largest continuous sand desert in the world. It’s an adventure that pushes the limits of endurance and exploration.

One Irishman’s Quest to Visit Every Irish Pub

Meanwhile, Irishman Colm Dalton has taken on the challenge of visiting every Irish pub worldwide. So far, he’s made it to 47 countries, all in the name of enjoying a pint and celebrating Irish culture.

New Lives, New Ventures

A Canadian Couple’s Leap to Mexico

After losing her job, Brooke Gazer convinced her husband, Rick, to take the plunge and move to Mexico, where they opened a bed-and-breakfast. Despite warnings from friends and family, their new life proved successful—and they’ve never looked back.

Ontario Sisters Take Over a Century-Old Inn

In Ontario, sisters Kristen and Kathryn Groom—aged 27 and 35—bought a century-old inn with no prior experience in the hospitality industry. Fast forward three years, and their business is thriving, partly thanks to their international social media presence.

Home Swaps as a Solution to Overtourism

Finally, many travelers are now opting for home swaps instead of using traditional hotels or Airbnbs. This innovative approach helps combat the overtourism problem while providing a more authentic, affordable experience for visitors. Whether it’s for a vacation rental or an exchange, people are finding new ways to travel and make the most of their homes.

If you’re looking to upgrade your own vacation rental, check out these tips from our partners at CNN Underscored, featuring everything from candles to white noise machines—your ultimate guide to making any space feel like home.

Source: CNN – Nearly half of the world’s 100 tallest bridges are in this Chinese province. Now it’s building one to top them all

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Get ready to pack your bags! TIME has unveiled its highly anticipated list of the 100 greatest places to visit in 2025. From breathtaking natural wonders to luxurious resorts and groundbreaking attractions, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences for travelers worldwide.

Top Destinations to Explore in 2025

United States

• Waldorf Astoria New York – The iconic 94-year-old Manhattan hotel is making a grand comeback with 357 redesigned guest suites, set to reopen this spring.
• Ocmulgee Mounds, Georgia – A prehistoric Native American site on its way to becoming Georgia’s first national park. Visit before the crowds arrive!

Caribbean & South America

• Sandals Resort, St. Vincent & The Grenadines – This luxury resort opened last year in Buccament, offering a stunning mountain and sea backdrop along with a massive 300-foot pool.
• Magdalena River, Colombia – Travelers can now explore this majestic river via a seven-night luxury cruise by Ama Waterways, sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Europe

• Port Ellen Distillery, Scotland – The legendary “ghost” whisky distillery on Islay has reopened after four decades, offering premium tasting experiences.
• Notre Dame, Paris – Following its devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has been fully restored, standing as a testament to architectural authenticity.
• Tiny Seaside Resorts, Denmark – The newly opened Loddenhøj and Skarrev resorts in South Jutland provide modernist micro-homes perfect for a cozy coastal getaway.

Africa

• NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia – Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park, ideal for stargazing and escaping modern noise.
• Culinary Innovation Village, Rwanda – Chef Dieuveil Malonga’s Afro-fusion dining experience showcases flavors from across the continent.

Asia & Australia

• Nintendo Museum, Japan – Opened in Uji last October, this museum is a dream destination for gaming enthusiasts, featuring vintage consoles and iconic game history.
• Nangma Valley, Pakistan – Dubbed “Pakistan’s Yosemite,” this remote hiking paradise is drawing adventurous travelers back to the region.
• The Ghan Train, Australia – A 75-hour luxury train journey through the outback, offering a spectacular way to experience the rugged landscape.

The Future of Air Travel

Revolutionary Aircraft Designs

• JetZero’s ‘Blended Wing’ Airplane – This futuristic, nacho-shaped aircraft promises 50% more fuel efficiency and could carry over 250 passengers. Expected to be in commercial operation by 2030.
• Boom XB-1 Supersonic Jet – America’s first civil supersonic aircraft broke the sound barrier earlier this year, bringing us one step closer to high-speed travel by 2029.
• Airbus A321XLR – This new fuel-efficient, single-aisle plane is set to transform transatlantic travel with expanded long-haul routes.

Airport Innovations & Expansions

• Gwadar Airport, Pakistan – A $240 million Chinese-funded airport, built for a city lacking clean water and a power grid, raises eyebrows.
• Dalian Jinzhou Bay International, China – The world’s largest artificial island airport is currently under construction.
• London Heathrow Expansion – The long-delayed third runway project has finally been approved, set to reshape European air travel.

Thrill Rides: The End of an Era

After 19 years of thrilling riders at Six Flags Adventure Park in New Jersey, Kingda Ka, once the world’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, has been demolished to make way for exciting new attractions in 2026.

As 2025 approaches, these destinations and innovations highlight an exciting year for travel, offering both nostalgic experiences and futuristic advancements. Where will your next adventure take you?

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