Travel Bros Pod

Travel Bros Pod
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

All things luxury hotels where we spend an hour+ breaking down everything you need to know about specific luxury hotel properties. A weekly podcast about luxury travel and how to make it better for your vacations. We cover a new luxury hotel each week from areas such as Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, California, Florida, Europe, the rest of the USA, and Asia.  

  1. Aug 3

    We Stayed at Cabo’s Best Value 5-Star Hotel (Thompson The Cape)

    https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Jamie reviews his stay at the Thompson at The Cape in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. From panoramic ocean views and front-row seats to El Arco to one of the best rooftop bar scenes in Cabo, this boutique luxury property brings a SoCal party vibe without sacrificing top-tier luxury.   Jamie breaks down his recent stay, comparing its incredible price-to-value ratio against heavyweights like the Waldorf Astoria and Park Hyatt. We discuss who this property is best for (and who should skip it), the unique glass-shower room designs, peak whale-watching season, unbelievable stand-out suites, and how to get maximum value using Hyatt Privé benefits.   Ready to book your stay at Thompson at The Cape with exclusive VIP perks?   When you book through us as your Hyatt Privé travel advisors, you get access to complimentary benefits you can't get by booking direct online: 🍳 Free daily breakfast for two   💵 $100 hotel credit for dining or spa   🍾 Custom welcome amenity (including in-room tequila!)   ⬆️ Priority room upgrades (confirmed within 24 hours of booking)   ⏰ Early check-in & late check-out  Priority (subject to availability)   📩 Reach out to us today to start planning your getaway:  https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus  Video Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Best Thompson Hotel in the World? 02:14 – Ideal Vibe: Who is this hotel actually for?   03:00 – Room Design Warning: See-through showers & copper tubs 05:05 – Pool & Rooftop Nightlife Scene   06:33 – Hyatt Privé Benefits & Breakfast at The Ledge   08:16 – Room Service, Manta Dining, & $10 Coke Zeros   12:44 – Pool Layouts: Infinity Edge & Hidden Saltwater Rock Pool   15:05 – Ocean-View Gym & Spa Experience   17:10 – Prime Whale Watching Season (Dec–April)   19:12 – Room Types, Balcony Swings, & Standout Residences   21:40 – Feature Tour: The Oceanfront Surfer Residence   27:32 – Service Quality & How Thompson Stacks Up   31:09 – 360-Degree Views at the Rooftop Bar   34:30 – Pricing Breakdown: Shoulder Season vs. Peak Season   Our Full Park Hyatt Cabo Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGGWl0_Gpao ⚡ 10 Things to Know (TLDR) Unbeatable Value Proposition: Starting around $400/night in the summer/shoulder season, it delivers a luxury experience at a fraction of the cost of neighboring properties like the Park Hyatt ($800–$1,000) or Waldorf Astoria ($1,200+).   Every Room Has an Ocean View: The resort's position provides direct lines of sight to El Arco and ocean-only views that mimic being on a cruise ship balcony.   Best for Couples / Romantic Getaways: The vibe skews toward adults (mid-20s to 50s). While kids are allowed, it is not a kid-catered property.   Bathroom Privacy Caution: Standard Deluxe King rooms feature open glass showers and copper tubs surrounded by thin curtains. If traveling with friends or teens, consider booking a Queen room (frosted glass) or a full suite to avoid awkwardness.   Exclusive Hyatt Privé Perks: Booking through a Hyatt Privé advisor gets you daily full breakfast for two, a $100 property credit, room upgrades (often confirmed within 24 hours), early check-in/late check-out, and a bottle of local tequila as a welcome amenity.   Unique Pool Options: In addition to the lively main infinity pool with a swim-up bar, there is a quiet, hidden saltwater pool built directly into the cliffside rocks that guests often overlook.   Prime Spot for Whale Watching: From mid-December to mid-April, the resort sits directly along the whale corridor. Rooms come equipped with binoculars to watch humpback whales right from your balcony.   Outstanding Residence Upgrades: For larger groups, the property features 1- to 3-bedroom residences. Highlights include the Oceanfront Surfer Residence, which boasts a private pool, fire pit, outdoor grill, gym, and private beach access path.   All Pools Are Heated: The resort’s main infinity pool, natural saltwater pool, and private suite plunge pools are all heated (and temperature can be turned up upon request during cooler winter months).  A Sunset Must-Visit: The rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of the ocean, mountains, and downtown Cabo, complete with craft cocktails and a live DJ—making it one of the premier sunset spots in town.

  2. Jul 26

    Is THIS The Best Luxury Hotel In Texas? (Hotel Emma Review)

    http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Is Hotel Emma really the best luxury hotel in Texas? After an overwhelming response from viewers on TikTok, Joey and Jamie take a deep dive into Episode 81 to review the iconic Hotel Emma in San Antonio. From its wild, true-crime-worthy history as the 1894 Pearl Brewery to its modern status as a 2-Key Michelin boutique powerhouse, we cover everything you need to know before booking your stay. Discover all the insanely generous staff and goodies with your stay, the best dining options (including tables inside original 19th-century fermentation tanks!), room categories to look out for, and how to maximize your Virtuoso perks Ready to Book Your San Antonio Experience? Get VIP perks like complimentary breakfast (including in-room dining!), a $100 property credit, room upgrades upon availability, early check-in, and late checkout!  👉 Book with us here: http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Video Chapters 00:00 – Intro: Did We Find the Best Hotel in Texas? 01:29 – The Wild History of the Three Emmas & Pearl Brewery  03:51 – Revitalizing the Pearl District: From Brewery to Luxury Hotel 05:38 – Sternewirth Bar & The Famous "Three Emmas" Cocktail  07:36 – Stacked Perks: Virtuoso Benefits, In-Room Dining, & Free Coffee  09:14 – Insider Hack: Extra Food & Beverage Credits 10:40 – On-Property Dining: Supper, Larder, & The Poolside Brewery Truck  14:50 – Exploring the Pearl District: Markets, Ice Cream, & Parking Tips  18:23 – Room Breakdown: Cellar Rooms, Suites, & Celebrity Highlights  24:47 – Amenities: House Cars, Gym, & Nightly Turndown 27:05 – San Antonio Travel Logistics & Road Trip Stops (Buc-ee’s Tips!)  33:39 – Michelin Key Distinction & How to Book  35:05 – Bonus: Texas Hill Country & Signia by Hilton Deep Dive  TLDR: Wild History & True Crime Roots: Originally built in 1894 as the Pearl Brewery, the hotel is named after three women named "Emma" tied to a scandalous 1914 love-triangle murder involving the brewery’s president.  Prohibition Pioneer: It was the only brewery in America to survive Prohibition without laying off a single worker, pivoting instead to "near beer," soda, ice cream, dry cleaning, and auto repairs. A Massive Revitalization: The property is now part of a $600M–$800M revitalized 22-acre district led by the founder of Pace Salsa.  World-Class Recognition: Rated TripAdvisor’s 2024 Best Luxury Hotel in the USA and awarded a 2-Key distinction by the Michelin Guide.   More Freebies: Guests enjoy free morning in-room coffee delivery, access to an exclusive 2-story library with free coffee/muffins, free branded Pearl Water at the pool, and complimentary cruiser bikes. AMEX Hack: Linking an "I Prefer Titanium Status" unlocks an additional $40 food & beverage credit at Larder.  Unique Dining Experiences: You can sit inside repurposed 19th-century cast-iron fermentation tanks at the famous Sternewirth Bar, or order drinks from a converted 1930s Pearl Brewery delivery truck hoisted up to the 3rd-floor pool deck.  Room Upgrades Matter: Standard/Cellar rooms run smaller (300–440 sq ft), so upgrading to a Terrace Room or one of their unique top-floor suites (with private elevator access!) drastically enhances the experience.   Convenient Location: It’s located in the vibrant Pearl District right on the Riverwalk, only ~11 minutes from San Antonio International Airport, and close to local spots like Pullman Market and Lick Honest Ice Cream.

  3. Jul 17

    Inside the New Era of All-Inclusive Luxury Resorts (Ritz, Park Hyatt, & More)

    http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Is the traditional luxury hotel model dead? In Episode 80 of the Travel Bros Podcast, Joey and Jamie break down a massive paradigm shift shaking up the travel industry: Ultra-luxury brands are officially invading the all-inclusive market. From the newly opened W Punta Cana to highly anticipated game-changers like the JW Marriott Costa Elena and the ultra-exclusive Four Seasons Naviva, the world's most prestigious hotel groups (Marriott, Hyatt, Four Seasons) are rewriting the rules. We tackle the biggest burning questions: Can these corporate giants actually uphold their legendary brand standards under an all-inclusive umbrella? Is the traditional resort buffet officially extinct? And why is Las Vegas suddenly trying to copy the all-inclusive blueprint? Whether you are looking to book a hyper-bespoke $3,000+ a night  tented oasis or looking for an affordable luxury getaway under $200 a night, we dive deep into the pros, the cons, and the shocking pricing models of these new properties. 🛎️ VIP Treatment: Let Us Book Your Next Luxury Getaway! Planning your next escape but feeling overwhelmed by the endless fine print, resort fees, and package complexities? Let us handle the heavy lifting. When you book your next vacation through us, we ensure you get the absolute best rates, exclusive VIP perks, and unparalleled peace of mind. 👉 Book your trip with us today at: travelbrospod.com/book-with-us Chapters 00:00 - The Luxury All-Inclusive Model: Trend or Crisis? 04:12 - Las Vegas Pivots: The Weird New MGM & Conrad Packages 11:15 - W Punta Cana: The First-Ever W All-Inclusive (Late 2025 Opening) 16:52 - Westin Playa Vierta: The Sub-$200 Luxury Experiment 18:00 - JW Marriott Costa Elena: Ultra-Luxury Family AI Coming September 2026 23:09 - Park Hyatt Riviera Maya: Flagship Dining & The Death of the Buffet 28:31 - Grand Hyatt Los Cabos: Scale, Architecture, and 2027 Bookings 30:31 - Ritz-Carlton Yanua: The $350M Cliffs of Macao Blueprint (2028) 35:44 - Four Seasons Naviva: The Ultimate $3,000 Menuless Sanctuary 41:45 - Hidden Gems: Nayara Tented Camp & Future Travel Protocols 43:43 - Let The Travel Bros VIP Your Next Vacation! TLDR  The Big Luxury Shift: Major corporations like Marriott, Hyatt, and Four Seasons are aggressively expanding into all-inclusives to eliminate customer skepticism regarding poor food/drink quality while capturing predictable, total-stay guest spending. W Punta Cana (Opened Late 2025): Marriott’s first-ever all-inclusive W property features stunning modern designs, outdoor showers, and swim-up suites. However, early guest reviews highlight limited food variety and critical warnings about mislabeled food allergens. Westin Playa Vierta (Newly Opened): Marking Westin’s first foray into the all-inclusive space, this heavily renovated property features adults-only swim-up suites and highly aggressive low-season pricing dipping under $200 a night. JW Marriott Costa Elena (Opening Sept 10, 2026): Rebranding the former Dreams Las Mareas in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, this massive property targets ultra-luxury families with 17 swimming pools, a 16,000-square-foot spa, and guided mangrove explorations. The Death of the Buffet: A defining characteristic of these new hyper-luxury openings (like the JW Marriott Costa Elena and Park Hyatt Riviera Maya) is a total abandonment of traditional buffets in favor of 100% a la carte fine dining. Park Hyatt Riviera Maya (Opening Soon): Positioning itself as a flagship hyper-luxury AI with base rates targeting $1,400–$1,500 a night, this highly anticipated property will rely strictly on premium a la carte dining to compete with nearby elite enclaves. Grand Hyatt Los Cabos (Opening Late 2026): Launching alongside the Park Hyatt, this 301-room upscale all-inclusive property blends distinct boxy architecture with an integrated golf course, open for bookings past February 2027. Ritz-Carlton Yanua (Opening 2028): A jaw-dropping $350M+ project being built on the cliffs of Macao Beach in Punta Cana. It promises Michelin-level dining and will uniquely feature access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge for every staying guest. Four Seasons Naviva: An incredibly exclusive, adult-only sanctuary consisting of just 15 luxury tents that maxes out at 30 guests total. Starting around $3,300/night, it offers a phone-free environment and a completely customized, menuless culinary experience. Las Vegas "All-Inclusive" Add-Ons: MGM resorts (Luxor, Mandalay Bay, etc.) and Conrad Resorts World are testing piecemeal all-inclusive add-ons covering parking, resort fees, and select meals to lock travelers into their respective resort umbrellas.

  4. Jul 6

    Grand Hyatt Nashville Review: The Ultimate Location and Lounge?

    http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Welcome back to another episode of the Travel Bros Podcast! In episode 78, we are heading down to Music City for an ultimate deep dive into the Grand Hyatt Nashville. Somehow, Jamie had never stepped foot in Nashville until now, so we break down his first impressions of the electric, non-stop energy on Broadway.   We talk about the massive hotel boom transforming the city's skyline , review Jamie’s stay in a stunning corner suite , and reveal why this property might just house the absolute best domestic Hyatt Club Lounge in the United States. Plus, we cover some wild stories—from base jumpers leaping off the hotel's 25th-floor rooftop bar to the true business models behind Broadway's celebrity-owned mega-bars. We also look at luxury alternatives like the Four Seasons and the timeless, historic charm of The Hermitage Hotel.   Thinking about planning your own weekend getaway to Nashville? Let us handle the details! Book your next stay with us to unlock exclusive VIP benefits like free breakfast, room upgrades, and resort credits at no extra cost to you. 🎸 Unlock VIP Status on Your Next Nashville Getaways: http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Hyatt Prive Benefits from Us:  Confirmed Room Upgrade: A priority one-category room upgrade (confirmed within 24 hours of booking, subject to availability). Daily Full Breakfast: Complimentary daily breakfast for up to two guests at the hotel restaurant $100 Property Credit: A $100 USD  credit per stay  Priority Check-In/Check-Out: Early check-in (as early as 9:00 AM) and late check-out (up to 4:00 PM), subject to availability Welcome Amenity: Personalized welcome amenity Chapters 00:00 - The Nashville Hotel Boom & Recent Openings    02:25 - First Impressions of Music City & Broadway's Crazy Energy   05:35 - Location Spotlight: The Brand New Nashville Yards District   07:15 - Room Review: Inside the Broadway Quarter Suite    08:54 - The Roof Bar Base Jumping Incident (Why There Are No Balconies!)    09:49 - Walkability to Bridgestone Arena & Nissan Stadium    12:30 - Grand Hyatt Dining, Steak Houses, and the Lou Na Rooftop Bar   14:54 - The 5th Floor Pool Deck & Wellness Floor    15:38 - Is This the Best Hyatt Club Lounge in the U.S.?    17:41 - Massive Value: Hyatt Prive vs. Club Access Pricing Breakdown   21:03 - The Locked Door Check-In Mishap    22:00 - Suite Upgrades & Connecting Rooms for Families    24:42 - The Hidden History Behind the "Lou Na" Rooftop Name    26:00 - Luxury Alternatives: Eyeing the Four Seasons Nashville    31:15 - The Outrageous Reality of Hotel Valet Parking Fees    35:43 - Celebrity Bars on Broadway: Licensing vs. True Ownership   38:56 - Nashville's Food Scene: Biscuits, Barbecue, and Modern Southern Eats    41:02 - The Hermitage Hotel: Gilded Era Luxury & Best Bathroom in America    43:25 - Disney Tangent: The Great Wilderness Lodge AC Disaster   46:02 - Secret Underground Tunnels & The Suffrage Movement History   47:59 - Outro: Subscribe & Become a Client!    TLDR A Grand Pandemic Opening: The Grand Hyatt Nashville opened its doors on October 1, 2020, right during the peak of the pandemic, soaring 24 floors into the air with an all-glass facade, 591 rooms, and 53 suites.   The Hub of Nashville Yards: The property was the very first building completed in "Nashville Yards," a massive 19-acre upscale mixed-use district that connects the Gulch to Broadway and serves as Amazon's local hub .   The Ultimate Domestic Lounge: Jamie declared that the Grand Hyatt Nashville boasts the absolute best domestic Hyatt Club Lounge in the U.S., highlighting its exceptional morning spread, extensive daytime grab-and-go snacks, and substantial evening happy hour.  Sweet Suite Value: Upgrading from a standard room to a premium corner layout like the Broadway Quarter Suite—which features floor-to-ceiling glass on two sides looking straight down Broadway—costs a relatively small price premium of around $100 to $150 more per night.   No Balconies Allowed: The hosts joked that the hotel's lack of guest room balconies is vindicated by a wild New Year's Eve incident where two men successfully base-jumped off the hotel's 25th-floor rooftop bar.   Crowded Pool Culture: Positioned on the 5th floor, the hotel's outdoor rooftop pool features excellent views of Broadway, but its compact deck area means it fills up with bachelorette parties and eager lounge-chair-claimers as early as 9:30 AM Steep Parking Fees: If you plan to visit, skip the rental car; the hotel charges a premium $60 per night for valet parking with no visible self-parking option, though the city center is incredibly walkable.  Historic  Restrooms & Suffrage: For vintage luxury lovers, the 1910 Hermitage Hotel offers stunning Art Deco architecture, a secret underground tunnel once used by politicians, a major history as ground zero for the 1920 women's suffrage movement, and a restroom that won Best Bathroom in America

  5. Jun 29

    Inside Napa Valley’s ONLY Resort With Its Own Vineyard! (Four Seasons)

    https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode of the Travel Bros podcast, Joey and Jamie take a deep dive into the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley. Located in the laid-back, old-school town of Calistoga, this property sits on 22 acres and holds the crown as the only hotel in Napa Valley with its own fully operational vineyard.  From an incredible travel hack that saves you hours of airport stress to checking out the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Calistoga, the guys break down everything you need to know before planning your luxury wine country getaway. They look at the stunning room setups, talk through incredible complimentary perks like chauffeur-driven luxury house cars and free childcare, and compare the resort directly to its ultra-luxury neighbor, the Auberge. Finally, they explain how booking through the Four Seasons Preferred Partner program with Travel Bros unlocks hundreds of dollars in daily resort credits, free breakfast, and priority upgrade. 🌟 Upgrade Your Next Stay with Travel BrosPlanning a trip to the Four Seasons Napa Valley or another world-class luxury property? Book directly through Travel Bros via the Four Seasons Preferred Partner program.  When you book your stay with us, you don't pay anything extra, but you instantly unlock a treasure trove of exclusive, value-added perks: * Daily Breakfast for Two: Fully flexible, meaning you can enjoy it at the resort restaurant or have it delivered right to your bed via in-room dining. * $100+ Resort Credit: Automatically applied to standard rooms, scaling all the way up to $500 per day for multi-bedroom suites and private residences to cover your dining, spa, or activities. * Priority Upgrades & Flexibility: Receive top-tier priority for room upgrades, early check-in, and late checkout based on availability. * Custom Welcome Amenity: Tailored explicitly to your preferences, whether you are a wine connoisseur or prefer a non-drinking experience.  Stop competing with credit card statuses. Let us VIP your next vacation.  Contact us: https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Calistoga: The True Vibe of Napa Valley    01:15 – The Only Resort with Its Own Vineyard    02:51 – Debunking the Internet: Bad Reviews vs. Reality    05:44 – Michelin-Starred Dining at Auro & Poolside Eats    06:08 – The Ultimate West Coast Airport Hack: Fly Into STS!    08:50 – Four Seasons vs. Auberge: Privacy vs. The "Scene"    11:54 – Mind-Blowing Perks: Free Childcare & Chauffeur Cars   15:12 – Room Tour: Fireplaces, Dark Aesthetics, & Multi-Million Dollar Villas    20:03 – $4,500 Shower Heads?! Inside the Luxury Finishes    23:58 – How to Get Up to $500/Day in Spend Credits & Free Nights   29:18 – Supercar Rallies, Hot Air Balloons, & Mud Spas    34:00 – Local Spots: Model Bakery    41:29 – How to VIP Your Stay with Four Seasons Preferred Partner   45:10 – First Look: Rosewood Calistoga (Opening January 2027) TLDR:   The resort is technically located in the northern town of Calistoga, which offers a rugged, laid-back, old-school agricultural vibe completely removed from the commercialized, heavily trafficked south side of Napa.   On-Site Vineyard: It is the only hotel property in Napa Valley that features its own operational vineyard. The hip, forward winery on-site is masterminded by Thomas Rivers Brown, widely considered a top-five New World winemaker.   The Airport Cheat Code: Skip SFO or Oakland. Flying into Santa Rosa Airport (STS)—a charming, Snoopy-themed regional airport—puts you a flat, traffic-free 20 miles and just a 35-minute drive away from the resort.   Michelin Dining: The resort is home to Auro, the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Calistoga. It features a 7-course tasting menu paired with an astronomical 4,400-bottle wine program.   Free Luxury Chauffeurs: The hotel features a complimentary house fleet of electric luxury vehicles (Lucid and Polestars) that will chauffeur you to downtown Calistoga or any local winery entirely for free.   Free Childcare: Unlike competitors that charge up to $125/hour, the Four Seasons offers its Kids Club entirely complimentary from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (with pre-booking).   Room Features & Aesthetics: Every single guest room on the property comes equipped with its own private balcony and a fireplace. However, the website's photos are heavily brightened; first-floor rooms actually feature a very dark, cavernous residential aesthetic.   No Expense Spared: The residential-style design includes ultra-premium plumbing fixtures from the luxury brand Waterworks, including individual shower heads valued at $4,500.   Oprah’s Favorite English Muffins: Located just 15 to 20 minutes from the resort is the legendary Model Bakery, world-famous for its English muffins, which spent a long time featured on Oprah's "Favorite Things" list.

  6. Jun 21

    Is This Mexico’s Most Gorgeous New Luxury Resort? 🇲🇽

    http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, we are diving deep into the newly opened Park Hyatt Cabo Del Sol. Jamie just returned from an exclusive Hyatt Privé event at this stunning 163-room property and is giving us the ultimate behind-the-scenes look.   Is it truly one of the most gorgeous resorts Mexico has ever seen, or do the growing pains—like a serious lack of privacy in the lower-tier plunge pools and Cabo's ever-inflating food and beverage costs—hold it back? We break down everything from the massive, spread-out estate layout and the incredible adults-only beach club to a breakfast spread so good it easily ranks in Jamie’s top five of all time.   PLUS, stick around for a massive bombshell revelation regarding the future of the Park Hyatt brand and a wild new all-inclusive property coming down the pipeline.  Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment below!  ✈️ Let the Travel Bros VIP Your Next Luxury Getaway! Planning an upcoming luxury vacation or a high-end staycation? Don't leave your experience up to chance or automated booking algorithms. Click the link in our bio to book your next trip through the Travel Bros Booking Service! We work directly with elite properties worldwide to score you exclusive perks, complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, and true VIP treatment—all at no extra cost to you.  https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: The Park Hyatt Arrives in Cabo  01:04 – VIP Arrival & Luxury Airport Transfers   02:22 – Open-Air Check-In & Signing the "No Ocean Swimming" Waiver   03:10 – Property Layout: Massive Footprint vs. Compact Resorts   03:45 – Room Tour: Deluxe Ocean View Suite Breakdown   05:30 – The Cabo Sticker Shock: $10 Sodas & Uber Eats Hacks   08:58 – Olympic Lap Pools, Activities & The Kids Club   10:38 – The Stunning Adults-Only Beach Club   15:33 – Neighborhood Growth: Soho House & Anima Village Luxury Shopping   28:30 – The Oceanfront Golf Course  29:40 –  The Major Privacy Problem with Plunge Pools   34:50 – Fit and Finish: Deep Soaking Tubs & Epic Shower Lighting   37:18 – Brand Bombshell: The World's First All-Inclusive Park Hyatt   46:55 – How to Book with Hyatt Privé Benefits   TLDR A Massive Footprint: The resort features only 163 rooms but sits on a massive, highly spread-out acreage, offering tons of open space and beautiful landscaping compared to more compact Cabo alternatives.   Strict Safety Waivers: Upon checking in at the stunning open-air lobby, guests must sign a waiver acknowledging the resort's strict no-smoking policy and agreeing not to enter the ocean, which features dangerous, unswimmable riptides.   Elite Room Swag: Every suite comes equipped with two complimentary Mexican straw hats and an exceptionally high-quality woven pool bag that guests are explicitly encouraged to take home.   Free First-Round Minibar: To combat local inflation, the resort provides the first round of minibar snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for free—a lifesaver given that sodas cost $8 to $10 across most luxury hotels in Cabo.   The Ultimate Beach Club: The property features a gorgeous, adults-only beach club (welcoming guests ages 15+) right on the sand line, complete with a 30-to-40-meter pool, a hot tub, cabanas, and Yeti coolers packed with ice and water.   High-End Retail Next Door: Located just 100 yards from the resort gates within the Cabo Del Sol community is "Anima Village," an upcoming luxury shopping center featuring storefronts like Rolex, Prada, Cartier, and Lululemon.   Award-Winning Breakfast: Overseen by acclaimed Executive Chef and pastry mastermind Miguel Gomez, the hotel breakfast is an absolute showstopper, boasting a massive plated fresh fruit station, traditional Mexican street food, and artisan bakery items.   The Plunge Pool Privacy Caveat: Lower-tier "Resort View" plunge pool suites lack privacy, as primary walking paths to restaurants run right past the patios; booking an "Ocean View" suite or premium tier is highly recommended to avoid onlookers.   A Shocking Brand Pivot: The hosts dropped a massive industry bombshell—the upcoming Park Hyatt Cancun / Rivera Maya (slated for late 2026) is being built by its owners to operate as the world's very first all-inclusive Park Hyatt property.

  7. Jun 14

    Stop Buying Cheap Luggage! (The Collapse of Thompson Hotels?)

    https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Welcome back to another packed episode of the Travel Bros Podcast! This week, the bros are down one member but up a couple of extra frequent flyers. Joey is joined by Thomas Kim (TK) and Trevor Mountcastle from the Travel Stories podcast to break down everything from the chaos of modern airline updates to the ultimate luggage showdown. Listen to Travel Stories:  https://milenomics.com/2025/01/travelstories-episode-51-everyday-carry/ ✈️ Let the Travel Bros VIP Your Next Luxury Getaway! Planning an upcoming luxury vacation or a high-end staycation? Don't leave your experience up to chance or automated booking algorithms. Click the link in our bio to book your next trip through the Travel Bros Booking Service! We work directly with elite properties worldwide to score you exclusive perks, complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, and true VIP treatment—all at no extra cost to you.  https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus YouTube Chapters 00:00 - Intro & Catching Up with the Travel Stories Crew 01:47 - Southwest 2.0: Elite Seats, Pistachios, and Crew Realities 12:15 - The Hotel Brand Explosion: Why Are There So Many Sub-Brands? 20:31 - Thompson Hotels: Real Modern Luxury or Branding Crisis? 24:08 - Hotel Consistency Kings: Four Seasons vs. St. Regis 32:00 - List of the Best & Worst Thompson Hotels  41:50 - Luggage Deep Dive: Choosing a Lifelong Travel Companion 1:13:40 - The Quick-Fire Luggage Tier List Game 1:24:21 - European Travel Tangents: Hidden Gems in Seville & Valencia 1:31:09 - Other Must-Have Travel Gear & Plane Cabin Survival Hacks 1:38:50 - Outro & How to VIP Your Next Hotel Stay Is "Southwest 2.0" actually an upgrade, or are we just paying more to get less? ✈️ In this massive, long-form episode of the Travel Bros Podcast, Joey, TK, and Trevor tackle the volatile world of modern travel. We kick things off with a candid review of Southwest’s new assigned seating format—complete with premium seat pricing, snack gatekeeping, and some legendary passive-aggressive flight crews. From there, we dive into the relentless explosion of confusing hotel sub-brands. Why does Marriott need 39 different chains? Is the Thompson Hotel brand in a luxury identity crisis? We compare hotel giants like Four Seasons and St. Regis to figure out who actually holds the crown for elite global consistency. Finally, we unpack the main event: The Ultimate Luggage Showdown. Stop buying cheap suitcases that break every single year! The bros debate soft ballistic nylon versus hard-sided aluminum, share crucial everyday carry (EDC) gear hacks, and put 15 of the biggest luggage brands through a brutal S-Tier to F-Tier ranking game. 🔔 Subscribe for more unfiltered luxury travel insights, hacks, and industry breakdowns!

  8. May 29

    Why This 30-Suite Antigua Resort Changes Everything About All-Inclusive Luxury

    http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus Is this the ultimate luxury escape in the Caribbean? In this episode, we are diving deep into Hermitage Bay, a secluded 30-suite paradise tucked away in Antigua. Having recently undergone a massive $30 million transformation, this adult-oriented property is rewriting the rules of what an "all-inclusive" resort can be.  Jamie just got back from a 4-night stay and is breaking down everything you need to know: from the steep climbs to the highest villa views, the incredible daily-changing menus (hello, included caviar and $180 steaks!), to the pristine, uncrowded beachfront.  Plus, we talk flight connectivity, island-hopping secrets, and a wild story about a 6.5 magnitude earthquake that hit right in the middle of a spa massage!  Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or just want to see how the top 1% travel in the Caribbean, you won't want to miss this review. ✈️ READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT LUXURY GETAWAY? Don't book alone! Let us VIP your next stay. Click the link in our bio or below to access our exclusive hotel contacts, unlock special perks, and receive expert guidance for your next trip:  http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus 👉 Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more luxury hotel tours and travel insights!   ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Hermitage Bay Antigua    01:00 - Property Layout & First Impressions    03:37 - Flight Logistics & Caribbean Island Hopping    06:42 - Arriving in Antigua: Airport & Transfers    11:11 - Hotel Property Ownership & SLH Connections    12:47 - What Does "All-Inclusive" Actually Mean Here?    16:16 - No Kids Allowed: The Adult-Oriented Vibe    18:56 - Room Tour: Hillside Pool Villas vs. Beachfront    24:12 - Pristine Beaches & Included Water Sports    27:45 - The Bug Situation & Open-Air Dining    30:50 - Beachfront Spa Review    33:36 - On-Property Fitness & Daily Live Music    34:26 - Exploring Antigua: 365 Beaches & Sunset Parties    39:03 - How to VIP Your Hotel Stays & Final Thoughts 📌 TLDR:  Hermitage Bay features only 30 suites but operates with a massive staff of 160, often resulting in an incredible one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio during your stay.   Award-Winning Transformation: The property just wrapped up a stunning $30 million transformation and is the only Antigua resort on the Conde Nast Traveler Gold List.   Seamless Transfers: If you book a stay of at least three or four nights, private round-trip airport transportation is fully included for the 35 to 40-minute drive.   No Buffets Allowed: Unlike mass-market resorts, all dining is a la carte with daily changing menus. High-end options like caviar and a $180 steak are entirely covered in the all-inclusive package.  Guests can even book a premium helicopter lunch over to Nobu Barbuda.  Adults-Oriented Privacy: The property caters strictly to adults and older teens; no guests under the age of 13 are permitted, and teenagers aged 14–16 incur a $400 nightly surcharge and must room with an adult.   The Hillside Hike: The Hillside Pool Villas offer spectacular infinity views and unmatched privacy, but the hill is incredibly steep. Golf cart service is available, but it is a serious hike for anyone with mobility challenges.   Indoor-Outdoor Design: Rooms feature a rustic luxury aesthetic with massive indoor bathtubs, though it is worth noting that the only shower in the suite is located outdoors.   Secluded Beach Paradise: The beach is highly uncrowded, beautifully spaced out, and includes all non-motorized water sports like kayaking and floating mats. However, the water drops off to chest-deep quite close to the shore.

See All (82)

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

All things luxury hotels where we spend an hour+ breaking down everything you need to know about specific luxury hotel properties. A weekly podcast about luxury travel and how to make it better for your vacations. We cover a new luxury hotel each week from areas such as Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, California, Florida, Europe, the rest of the USA, and Asia.  

Information

  • Creator
    Travel Bros Pod
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    82
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Travel Bros Pod
  • Show Website
    Travel Bros Pod

You Might Also Like