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NEW OPENING: EPIC UNIVERSE, florida
Universal’ s Epic Universe is the first major Florida theme park to open in over 25 years. The 750-acre park, which opened on May 22, doubles the footprint of Universal Orlando Resort with five themed worlds. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic merges the Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter franchises, combining 1920s Paris with 1990s Britain. Meanwhile, Super Nintendo World brings the Mario Kart and Donkey Kong video games to life. How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk drops guests into the mystical realm of Vikings and dragons from the DreamWorks movies. Dark Universe is a creepy village inspired by Dracula, Wolf Man and Frankenstein. Celestial Park is home to a cosmic-themed coaster and the new Universal Helios Grand Hotel. Each area features immersive dining, from the Mario-themed Toadstool Cafe to Das Stakehaus in the vampire catacombs.
SPOTLIGHT: PARK HYATT kyoto, japan images: © 2021 Universal Orlando; Nacasa & Partners inc.
Fall is the ideal season for strolling Kyoto’ s historic paths. Park Hyatt Kyoto, located in the pretty Higashiyama District, serves as the perfect base for exploring the ancient capital of Japan. It welcomes guests via a serene garden and invites them to settle into fireside armchairs before they head out and explore the lantern-lit streets. Upstairs, at bar Kohaku, sunset cocktails are paired with panoramic views of Yasaka Pagoda. Next door, Yasaka teppanyaki serves French-inspired dishes on 400-yearold Asahiyaki pottery. In the morning, breakfast at Kyoto Bistro is prepared by the team at the Michelin-starred Kyoyamato— the hotel’ s signature restaurant. Opt for fragrant Koshihikari rice, pumpkin tofu with a single golden raisin and grilled yellowtail in saikyo miso. Other highlights include a single shrimp touched with mirin and butter, and a beef-burdock roll nodding to dim sum. After breakfast, it’ s time for a spot of sightseeing, with key stops including the Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
From top: Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe, Florida; Park Hyatt Kyoto, Japan fall 2025 • 15