Sober Travel is So In: The Best Hotel Brands for Zero-Proof Luxury

Sober Travel is So In: The Best Hotel Brands for Zero-Proof Luxury

Published by Bracco Cruise & Travel | May 2025

Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or simply choosing to skip the buzz for a clearer vacation mindset, you’re not alone—and you’re certainly not limited. The sober travel movement is gaining real momentum, with hotel brands stepping up their game by offering sophisticated, spirit-free experiences that feel just as indulgent.

So, if you’re ready to sip something refreshing poolside without the alcohol, here’s your go-to guide to sober-friendly hotels around the globe.

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🌿 Hyatt – “Zero Proof, Zero Judgement”

Launched in 2021, Hyatt’s standout program offers elevated mocktails crafted with Ritual Zero Proof spirits and Fever-Tree mixers. You’ll find these at brands like:

• Alila

• Andaz

• Hyatt Centric

• Thompson Hotels

• The Unbound Collection

✨ Try This: At Bar 54 in Hyatt Centric Times Square, sip a basil, cucumber, and lime delight made with zero-proof gin. Or visit Thompson Savannah for a blueberry, honey, and rum-free refresher.

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🍸 Tempo by Hilton – “Free-Spirited” Cocktails

Hilton’s Tempo line is the cool new kid on the sober block. Their bar menus feature non-alcoholic drinks that mirror the presentation, flavor, and fun of classic cocktails. Locations include:

• Tempo Times Square (NYC)

• Raleigh Downtown

• Pigeon Forge (opening Oct 2025)

• San Diego Del Mar (opening Jan 2026)

👏 Bonus: Their equal billing of mocktails and cocktails puts sober travelers on equal footing. Now that’s hospitality!

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🧡 IHG Hotels – Thoughtful and Trendy

Crowne Plaza leads IHG’s sober efforts with required zero-proof menus across all properties. Their Cranberry Refresher is a tart treat of cranberry, pomegranate, and lime with ginger ale sparkle.

Also look for:

• Hotel Indigo’s adaptogenic tea mocktails

• InterContinental and voco Hotels’ curated no-ABV drinks

🌱 Wellness Tip: Ask for Smith Teamaker blends infused with ashwagandha and turmeric!

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🌺 Loews Hotels – Local Flavor with No Alcohol Needed

Launched in 2022, Loews’ “Free Spirited” program reflects local ingredients and creativity at every property.

🍍 Don’t Miss: The Pineapple-Matcha-Jito at Live! by Loews – St. Louis, or the Coronado Cobbler (a low ABV option) at Coronado Bay Resort. These aren’t just drinks—they’re destinations in a glass.

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🌴 Viceroy Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico

For the all-inclusive traveler who skips the booze, this resort offers:

• Fresh coconut water

• Tropical agua frescas (guava, mango, pineapple)

• Gorgeous mocktails like the Pink Palmer and Chelada

✨ Tip from Bracco: Perfect for wellness-focused couples or babymooners!

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🏝️ Fiyavalhu Resort – Maldives

Completely alcohol-free and deeply serene, this is the ultimate wellness escape. Instead of bars, enjoy:

• Outdoor tea ceremonies

• Halal dining with bespoke mocktails

• Private villa stays and tranquil ocean vibes

🌊 Why We Love It: Zero temptation, pure relaxation—your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.

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💡 Tips for Sober Travelers

• Tell your advisor (that’s us!) you prefer sober-friendly stays—we know just where to book.

• Pack your favorites: From herbal teas to non-alcoholic mixers, bring what you love.

• Ask the concierge: Hotels love tailoring your experience.

• Join the community: Look for local sober events or mindful wellness activities.

• Don't compromise: Luxurious and lively doesn’t have to mean alcohol is involved.

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✨ Travel Without the Hangover

At Bracco Cruise & Travel, we believe you deserve vacations that reflect your lifestyle—sober, spirited, or somewhere in between. Whether it’s a tropical escape, cultural adventure, or wellness getaway, we’ll help stitch every detail together so you can sip, savor, and shine.

📲 Let’s plan your next sober-friendly escape!
Contact Bracco Cruise & Travel | Follow us on Instagram for zero-proof travel inspo! 🍹🌍

 

✈️ Stay Safe While You Explore: Pro Travel Safety Tips for Every Journey

From Bracco Cruise & Travel

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys—but it’s always smart to adventure with awareness. Whether you're walking cobblestone streets in Rome or shopping in a bustling market in Barcelona, staying alert can prevent theft and ensure a smooth, unforgettable journey. Here's your go-to safety guide with pro tips to keep pickpockets and mishaps at bay, especially when cruising or traveling abroad.

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🎒 Pickpocket-Proof Travel: Pro Tips to Outsmart Thieves

Pickpockets are pros—but so are you with these savvy strategies:

🔐 Top 10 Anti-Pickpocket Tips:

1. Use Anti-Theft Bags – Invest in a crossbody bag with lockable zippers and RFID protection.

2. Wear Your Backpack in Front – Especially in metros or crowded places.

3. Limit What You Carry – Only take what you need for the day. Leave extra cards, passports, and cash in a hotel safe.

4. Be Cautious with Cell Phones – Don't use phones near train doors or curbs—thieves can grab and run (or ride off on a scooter!).

5. Avoid Flashy Jewelry – Keep it simple to stay off a thief’s radar.

6. Stay Aware in Crowds – Watch out in train stations, markets, tourist hotspots, and when people “bump” into you.

7. Don’t Keep Wallets in Back Pockets – Ever.

8. Use a Money Belt or Neck Wallet – Keep it tucked under clothing.

9. Be Skeptical of Distractions – “Accidental spills,” fake petitions, or people asking for help may be staged to pickpocket.

10. Always Look Around – Maintain situational awareness like a local.

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🌍 Countries Where Pickpocketing is Common:

These destinations are gorgeous—but require extra caution:

• Barcelona, Spain

• Rome & Naples, Italy

• Paris, France

• Athens, Greece

• Lisbon, Portugal

• Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Prague, Czech Republic

• Buenos Aires, Argentina

• Istanbul, Turkey

• Cairo, Egypt

Don’t let this list scare you—just stay alert and travel smart!

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🛳️ Cruise Travel Safety Tips

When you're cruising, your ship is a floating resort—but shore excursions and port days require just as much attention.

⚓ Smart Cruising Pro Tips:

• Only Book Excursions Through Trusted Sources – Use your cruise line or certified travel advisor (👋 that’s us!).

• Stick with the Group – Especially in unfamiliar or high-alert destinations.

• Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Cabin Unsecured – Use the in-room safe for passports, jewelry, and electronics.

• Avoid Flashing Cruise Cards – Keep them in a lanyard or secure pocket, not dangling visibly.

• Watch Alcohol Intake – Stay sharp and aware of your surroundings, especially on port nights.

• Avoid Wandering Alone – Especially after dark or in rural areas.

• Download Cruise Line Apps – Stay informed of ship times, alerts, and onboard updates.

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🌐 General Safety Tips While Traveling Abroad

🛡️ Stay Secure, No Matter Where You Roam:

• Make Digital & Paper Copies of Documents – Passport, ID, insurance, itinerary. Email a copy to yourself or store in a secure cloud.

• Use Hotel Safes – For passports, extra cards, or anything you don’t need while sightseeing.

• Avoid Telling Strangers Your Plans – Keep travel details private.

• Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) – A U.S. State Department service that helps in case of emergencies.

• Know Local Emergency Numbers – Not every country uses 911.

• Keep Emergency Contacts on Paper – In case your phone dies.

• Trust Your Gut – If a situation feels “off,” it probably is.

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✨ Final Thought: Travel Smart = Travel Confident

Your travel dreams should never be dulled by fear. At Bracco Cruise & Travel, we believe in helping you explore the world safely, smartly, and confidently. With the right planning and awareness, every destination becomes your playground—not a pitfall.

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💼 Planning a trip? Let us stitch together every detail—safely and seamlessly.

Contact Bracco Cruise & Travel today for concierge-level service, expert planning, and trusted guidance every step of the way.

🌊 Cruising with Confidence: Autism & Special Needs Programs at Sea

 

🌊 Cruising with Confidence: Autism & Special Needs Programs at Sea

Travel made seamless, safe, and joyful—for every family.

At Bracco Cruise & Travel, we know that families traveling with a child on the autism spectrum face unique challenges—and deserve extraordinary care. As a hospitalist and certified travel advisor, I bring a dual lens of medical insight and travel planning expertise to ensure your vacation is both safe and magical.

Cruises are one of the best vacation options for families with special needs. Why? Predictable routines contained environments, structured activities, and programs tailored specifically for children with sensory or developmental differences.

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🚢 Cruise Lines Offering Autism-Friendly & Special Needs Support

1. Royal Caribbean International

🧩 Autism Friendly Ship Certification (via Autism on the Seas)

• Priority check-in, boarding, and departure

• Trained youth staff and respite care options

• Sensory-friendly movies, toy-lending, and flexible dining

• Gluten-free and allergy-friendly menus

• Social stories to help prep your child before boarding
  🌟 Pro Pick: Symphony of the Seas & Wonder of the Seas—tons of space and activities

2. Celebrity Cruises

• Sister company to Royal Caribbean, sharing many of the same supports

• Staff trained in working with ASD and developmental disorders

• Offers calm, less crowded environment ideal for sensory-sensitive children

3. Disney Cruise Line

🌟 Widely praised by parents of children with autism

• Trained staff (including characters) for neurodiverse guests

• Low-sensory movie screenings, shorter lines, and structured clubs

• Family-focused with exceptional service and care

4. Carnival Cruise Line

🎧 Partnered with KultureCity to create Sensory Inclusive Ships

• Sensory bags, safe quiet spaces, and trained crew

• Accommodations available in Camp Ocean—must be requested ahead

5. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• Priority embarkation and debarkation

• Trained youth staff available to support mild to moderate needs

• Onboard autism programs not as consistent—ask your advisor for the best-fit ship

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🧠 The Clinical Case for Sensory Rooms: Why They Matter at Sea

As a hospitalist and certified travel advisor, I understand the profound impact that thoughtfully designed environments can have on individuals with autism. Sensory rooms, increasingly available on cruise ships, offer controlled, calming spaces that cater to the unique sensory needs of neurodiverse travelers.

📊 Evidence-Based Benefits

Recent studies underscore the efficacy of sensory rooms:

• Improved Focus and Reduced Repetitive Behaviors: Research indicates that when autistic children have access to sensory rooms where they can control the sensory equipment, they exhibit increased attention spans and a decrease in repetitive behaviors.

• Enhanced Coping Mechanisms: A study from Dayton Children's Hospital found that incorporating sensory rooms alongside individualized coping plans significantly reduced anxiety levels in pediatric patients with autism during medical procedures.

• Development of Adaptive Skills: Multisensory environments (MSEs), such as Snoezelen® rooms, have been shown to positively affect adaptive developmental skills and sensory responses in preschool children with autism.

These findings highlight the importance of sensory-friendly spaces in promoting comfort and well-being for individuals with autism, especially in unfamiliar settings like cruise ships.

🚢 Sensory Rooms at Sea: A Growing Trend

🧭 Pro Tips from Lisa, Hospitalist & Travel Advisor

👩‍⚕️ As a healthcare provider and mom, I understand both the clinical and emotional needs of families navigating travel with autism. You’re not alone—and I’m here to guide every step with empathy and professionalism.

✅ Pre-Cruise Prep is Key

• Practice “cruise day” with a mock packing and boarding drill

• Use social stories or ship videos to familiarize your child with the experience

• Let your travel advisor (that’s me!) know early—we can pre-coordinate accommodations

✅ Bring Sensory Essentials

• Headphones, weighted blankets, fidget toys, compression vests

• Ask for a quiet cabin location (no elevators or loud venues nearby)

✅ Use Onboard Services

• Take advantage of early dining, priority theater seating, or quiet zone tips

• Plan for daily downtime—scheduling is your best friend at sea

✅ Ask About “Autism on the Seas”

• A nonprofit that partners with cruise lines for onboard support staff, private excursions, and adaptive programs

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✨ Why Travel with Bracco Cruise & Travel?

We’re not just your travel planners—we’re your trusted advocates.
With my background in medicine and concierge-level travel, I understand how to stitch together all the details that make your journey stress-free and joyful. From handling medication needs and dietary restrictions to ensuring quiet spaces and trained care—you’re in good hands.

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🧳 Let’s Set Sail—Together

Ready for a vacation where your whole family feels safe, seen, and supported?
Let Bracco Cruise & Travel customize the perfect cruise for your child’s needs and your peace of mind.

📲 Contact us today—and trust your travel advisor (that’s me!).

The Hospitalist’s Guide to Staying Out of the Hospital on Vacation

The Hospitalist’s Guide to Staying Out of the Hospital on Vacation By Lisa, Certified Travel Advisor & Hospitalist

Nothing ruins a dream getaway like an unexpected trip to the ER. As both a hospitalist and a travel expert, I’ve seen what can go wrong—and more importantly, how to prevent it. Here are my best insider tips for staying healthy and safe while you explore the world.

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✈️ 1. Pre-Trip Prep: Your Medical To-Do List

• Schedule a check-up 4–6 weeks before international trips

• Request extra prescriptions in advance

• Pack a copy of your medical summary (diagnoses, allergies, meds, devices)

• Know your numbers: BP, glucose, weight

• Carry your medication list in both physical and digital form

• Review CDC travel health notices and vaccines needed for your destination

• Check if your destination requires medication documentation or import permits

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💊 2. Pack Smart: Your DIY Travel Health Kit

• Daily meds in original bottles

• Cold packs or Frio pouches for insulin or GLP-1 storage

• Antidiarrheals, anti-nausea meds, antihistamines, motion sickness bands

• First-aid basics (bandages, ointment, thermometer)

• Compression socks for long travel days

• Spare prescriptions and backup doses

Pro tip: Always keep meds in your carry-on. Store a copy of your prescriptions in a cloud folder or email them to yourself in case of loss.

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🌎 3. Know Where to Get Help—Before You Need It

• Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)

• Choose cruises/resorts with on-site or nearby medical care

• Download telemedicine apps like Teladoc, Air Doctor, or GeoBlue

• Consider Global Rescue or MedJet for serious conditions

• Learn how to dial emergency services in your destination country

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🚢 4. Cruising with Conditions: What to Know Cruises are accessible and comfortable for travelers with health concerns. Here's how to stay safe and enjoy every port:

• Disclose medical needs early when booking: accessible cabins, sharps containers, refrigeration needs, oxygen, or mobility equipment

• Bring enough medication for the entire cruise + 3 extra days, in original labeled containers

• Inform the ship's medical center of your condition at embarkation (optional but encouraged)

• Time zones and meds: Plan adjustments with your provider, especially for insulin or cardiac meds

• Dialysis at sea is possible on select ships—ask about onboard or portside availability

• In-cabin fridges: Most cruise lines provide refrigeration for medications on request (note: these are often mini-bars, not medical-grade, so use a Frio bag or cold pack for added protection)

• Liquid medication policy: Declare at embarkation; some cruise lines require advance notice and documentation for large volumes

• Medical centers onboard are equipped for urgent care; staff may stabilize and disembark you for serious issues, so travel insurance is a must

• Sharps disposal: Most lines provide sharps containers if requested ahead of time

• Mobility and excursion planning: Ask about wheelchair-friendly ports and accessible shore excursions

Cruise Line Tip: Notify them at least 30 days before sailing for any special medical accommodations. Each line has a medical request form you can submit through your advisor.

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🍽️ 5. Eat, Drink & Move... Wisely Vacation food is part of the fun, but your body still needs balance—especially with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or GI issues.

• Stick to regular eating times to stabilize blood sugar and digestion

• Enjoy indulgences in moderation, balance with fiber and protein

• Request low-sodium or sauce-on-the-side meals

• Use MyFitnessPal or a food diary to track meals if managing a condition

• Hydrate frequently—ships and flights dry you out

• Limit alcohol; it can impact hydration, interact with medications, and impair judgment

• Get moving daily: walk the deck, take the stairs, join light onboard fitness like stretching, yoga, or aqua aerobics

• Mind your gut: bring probiotics, stick to bottled water in foreign ports, and go easy on raw or buffet foods if you’re immunocompromised

• For diabetics: Watch hidden sugars in tropical cocktails, desserts, and sauces

• Avoid skipping meals if you're on medication that affects glucose or blood pressure

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🚒 6. Travel Insurance: Your Safety Net Choose coverage that includes:

• Pre-existing conditions

• Emergency evacuation

• Hospital stays and trip interruption

• Medication replacement or prescription coverage while abroad

As your travel advisor, I help you pick a plan that truly protects you.

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❤️ Final Thought: Healthy Travel is Happy Travel With the right support and a few smart moves, you can explore the world safely and confidently—even with medical concerns. Let Bracco Cruise & Travel help you plan seamless, wellness-first adventures.

Ready to cruise with confidence? Let’s talk today!