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LISTENING IN: Where would we be without The Doobie Brothers?

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If there’s a bad thing about our weekly music videos, it’s that some songs can make you feel old – like this week’s offering of The Doobie Brothers, which corresponds with the band’s ongoing 50th anniversary tour. Fifty years (yikes)! Conversely, they can also make you feel young again as you relive old favourites.

In this case, and despite Jack Wilder’s (Michael Douglas) lament in the 1999 film “Romancing the Stone” – “Dammit man, the Doobie Brothers broke up! S**t! When did that happen?” – we’re pleased to observe that Tom Johnston and company did reconvene and have continued rockin’ down the highway for a few decades more.

One excellent show in particular took place at Wolf Trap (a national park in Virginia) in 2004 – an epic performance that spawned both a CD and DVD in no small part because a full horn section helps put a fresh twist on a lengthy list of Doobies classics, such as “Listen to the Music,” “China Grove,” and our choice, “Long Train Coming,” a song that first appeared on the 1973 album “The Captain and Me.”

With performances like this, it feels really good to be young again.

Lyrics

Down around the corner, half a mile from here
See them long trains run, and you watch them disappear
Without love, where would you be now
Without lo-o-o-ove

You know I saw miss Lucy down along the tracks
She lost her home and her family and she won’t be coming back
Without love, where would you be right now
Without lo-o-o-ove

Well, the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central Freight
Got to keep on pushin’ mama
You know they’re running late
Without love, where would you be now
Without lo-o-o-ve

Well, the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central Freight
Got to keep on pushin’ mama
You know they’re running late
Without love, where would you be now
Without lo-o-o-ve

Well, the pistons keep on turning
And the wheels go round and round
The steel rails are cold and hard
For the miles that they go down

Without love, where would you be right now
Without lo-o-o-ve ooh
Where would you be now

Mmm, got to get you, baby baby, won’t you move it down?
Won’t you move it down?
Baby, baby, baby, baby, won’t you move it down?
When the big train run
When the train is movin’ on I got to keep on movin’
Keep on movin’
Won’t you keep on movin’?
Gonna keep on movin’

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

THE NEED FOR SPEED: Experience world’s fastest car in Coventry

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Ever wondered what it’s like to drive the fastest car in the world? With the reopening of the star attraction at the Coventry Transport Museum in February, museum visitors in the UK city now have the chance to experience what it feels like to break the sound barrier on land.

First opened in 2015, the 4D Land Speed Record Simulator had been closed since pandemic restrictions came into force in 2020, but has now reopening for the first time in three years.

Specially developed by Metropolis Entertainment, the 14-seat, full-motion Stargazer theatre attempts to recreate the experience of Thrust SSC’s record-breaking drive on Oct. 15, 1997.

Wing Commander Andy Green, who drove the extraordinary vehicle – more appropriately call a land-speed “rocket” – to its supersonic speed of 763 mph, said in 2015 that riding the simulator “still gave [him] goosebumps, bringing back memories of wrestling Thrust SSC’s steering and fighting to keep the 10-ton monster straight at over 600 mph.”

The reopening of the simulator follows hot on the heels of the 25th anniversary of the land speed record in 2022 – a record which remains unbroken to this day.

The 4D simulator is located in Coventry Transport Museum’s Land Speed Gallery, alongside the original Thrust SSC vehicle and its record-breaking predecessor Thrust2. Also, currently on display in the gallery is Bloodhound LSR – a vehicle designed to travel even faster than Thrust SSC, which is currently awaiting funding for its world record attempt. This Oct. 2 will mark the 40th anniversary of Thrust2 achieving a top speed of 622.407 mph.

The 4D Land Speed Record Simulator offers rides running every hour, on the hour, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Riding the simulator costs £3 p.p., £10 for a family of four or £12 for a family of five. Tickets are bookable in-person on the day of visit.

Transport Museum

Located in the West Midland’s city of Coventry, about an hour from Birmingham, the Transport Museum houses the world’s largest publicly owned collection of British road vehicles and record-breaking fast cars. Reflecting the city’s historical reputation as the “Detroit of Britain,” the museum boasts hundreds of exhibits, from antique bicycles (invented in Coventry) to war vehicles, fire engines, double decker buses, race cars, and the aforementioned land-speed rockets. There’s also a collection of miniatures, and, of course, classic cars from local companies, including 16 stunners you could only dream of owning in the Jaguar gallery.

Transport Museum

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hua Hin Magic during the 2023 Thailand Open

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Hua Hin, Thailand, March 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The 2023 Thailand Open Hua Hin presented, a WTA 250 Tournament which was held in Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan in February, still lingers in the minds of professional tennis players and remains their topic of conversation, even past its completion more than a month ago.

Hua Hin boasts a number of famous tourist spots, namely Vana Nava Water Jungle, Cicada Market, and its white sand beach, all of which are well known to foreigners who have visited before. In fact, this resort town actually offers a lot of charming aspects that are worth discovering. Thus, Proud Group and True Arena Sport Club, on behalf of the organizers, joined hands with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to carry out special activities to highlight Hua Hin as a city of culture and health to tourists from across the world using social media and word-of-mouth.

The first Player ACES activity was held at the Gallery Hua Hin, a vintage automotive museum located on the second floor at Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall. Attending the event were 2019 Thailand Open champion and former world No. 21 Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine, former world No. 26 Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovak Republic and world No. 142 Katie Boulter of Great Britain. The classic collection piqued the interest of the three WTA players, who even had the unique experience of sitting in some of the classic automobiles.   A part from the antique cars, the gallery also displays paintings by world-class and local artists. The three players also received a tutorial on an Eco-printing technique, which showed them how to transfer colours and shapes of leaves onto cloth bags. In addition, the trio witnessed a session of shoe paintings by young students.

Another ACES activity focused on Muay Thai, the traditional form of self-defense that uses the fists, elbows, lower arms, feet, head and body in battle.  The program was made available to players by Tourism Authority of Thailand and the tournament’s organizers. On this occasion, world No 115 Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia and No 139 Nao Hibino of Japan donned gloves and honed their fighting techniques under the instruction of 2004 taekwondo Olympic bronze medalist and current boxing promoter Yaowapa Boorapolchai at the Legend Arena.

Meanwhile, the 96th ranked Ysaline Bonaventure of Belgium and former world No. 105 Han Xinyun of China underwent beauty and body treatments conducted by doctor Chanunchida Choomwiset at Chevala Wellness Center on the 2nd floor of Bluport.

One of the more unique activities Tourism Authority of Thailand and the organizers selected for players was a local culinary class. 2019 US Open winner and former world No. 4 Bianca Andreescu of Canada, No. 41 Lin Zhu of China and No. 330 Ellen Perez of Australia participated in the activity named “Make Thai Cuisine at Proud Thai” where they learned how to prepare “Pineapple Fried Rice” at Proud Thai on the first floor of Bluport. While Pineapple Fried Rice is a well-known and well-liked dish among foreigners, pineapple is a famous product of Prachuab Khiri Khan. The players also learned how to make Taro Balls and Sweet Eggs in Coconut Cream, a tasty Thai sweet dessert menu. A great assortment of coconuts grown by Hua Hin agriculturists were chosen for the session.  During the cookery lesson, a dulcimer band was performing, and Andreescu was so captivated by the Thai instrument that she requested to give it a try herself.

Later in the same location, Andreescu, Lin and Perez observed provincial handicrafts that reflected the Thai way of life and charms from communities nationwide. These artefacts included Benjarong porcelain ware which are the traditional man-made ceramics from the Tha Hong Thai factory in Ratchaburi, bamboo weaving products from Chonburi, Yan Lipao products from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, reed mats from Chanthaburi, wooden items, woven fabrics, goldware, silverware, brassware, accessories and brassware.

Last but not least, during a welcome party on the beachfront of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, Thailand Open players and VIP guests were mesmerized by a traditional Thai dancing performance by the Lookmai Nattasin Hua Hin group, which comprised of school and university students in the area. That was a part of the promotional campaigns run by the tournament organizers in response to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s campaign which called for using The 2023 Thailand Open Hua Hin as a soft power tool to increase Hua Hin’s economy and tourism.

In the end, the The 2023 Thailand Open Hua Hin was a huge success. Chinese Lin Zhu was the last woman standing in the competition. She did, however, leave the Kingdom with a memorable experience of Thai culture in addition to the singles trophy.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Women Take Centre Stage in Tourism Development

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UNWTO - Women Take Centre Stage in Tourism Development - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, March 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism must continue to deliver on its potential as a driver of women’s empowerment and opportunity.

To mark International Women’s Day, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and UN Women have jointly reaffirmed their commitment to keep women’s empowerment ‘Centre Stage’ of tourism development.

With the ‘Centre Stage’ model we can help the sector work for women and we will not stop until the girls of tomorrow have the same opportunities as the men of today

Tourism as a gender equality leader

UNWTO research has previously shown the enormous potential of the tourism sector to empower women of all backgrounds. Fifty-four per cent of the global tourism workforce is female, the gender-wage gap is lower in tourism, and the proportion of women in leadership roles is higher than in other sectors. However, much progress is still to be made. Women are still concentrated in lower-paid, precarious and often informal work. Furthermore, UNWTO research has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic hit women in tourism harder than men. For instance, women were more likely to lose their job, have their hours or pay reduced and to shoulder more care responsibilities in all of the countries surveyed.

UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, said “UNWTO has worked with our partners to study and document the huge contribution women make to tourism.  Now it is time for tourism to give back. With the ‘Centre Stage’ model we can help the sector work for women and we will not stop until the girls of tomorrow have the same opportunities as the men of today.”

Public and private unity

The pioneering ‘Centre Stage’ project was launched in 2021 to address this imbalance and expand tourism’s place in the development agenda and women’s empowerment.  Created by UNWTO, BMZ and UN Women, the project is geared towards creating a people-centred model for tourism development that puts the needs of women at its heart. In bringing together the public sector with tourism businesses and civil society organization, the project directly trained 1,800 people, saw 2,826 women get a promotion, surveyed 27,000 people and reached over 20 million in a global awareness raising campaign.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Celebrates Official Opening Of ITB Berlin: Tourism Always Comes Back

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UNWTO Celebrates Official Opening Of ITB Berlin Tourism Always Comes Back - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism is on track to achieve full recovery this year and ready to deliver on its potential as a pillar of peace and sustainability, UNWTO has told sector leaders at ITB in Berlin.

As the leading tourism trade fair celebrates its first in-person event since 2019, UNWTO data shows that more than twice as many people travelled internationally in January  as they did at the start of last year. According to UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, the message is clear: “Tourism always comes back”, and the return of ITB, alongside the recent re-opening of China, is clear proof of renewed confidence in international travel.

Building a better tourism

Secretary-General Pololiksahvili was invited to be part of the official inauguration ceremony for ITB 2023, alongside Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, Berlin Mayor Franziska Giffey, and public and private sector leaders. While welcoming the positive data, he also stressed that tourism has a “responsibility to grow back better. We must speed up and scale up to a more sustainable and resilient tourism.”

Outlining UNWTO’s priorities for the sector, Mr. Pololikashvili urged both governments and businesses to recognize the importance of education and training, as well as the crucial role of investment – the “missing ingredient” for turning plans for greater sustainability and resilience into reality. Investment will be the theme for World Tourism Day 2023, to be celebrated on 27 September.

UNWTO at ITB 2023

At ITB 2023, UNWTO will be part of a special Industry Roundtable, focusing on ‘transitions in travel’, while also sharing key knowledge and insights into tourism’s climate action efforts, and expectations for tourist behaviour as the sector’s recovery continues. UNWTO will also provide an update of its leading work in tourism for rural development, including through the Best Tourism Villages initiative.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GREAT GETAWAYS: Getting to know Chicago

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Lynn Osmond has lived in Chicago for close to 30 years, but the St. Catharines, Ont., native, who oversees tourism in the Illinois city, has a unique perspective on how Canadians view her adopted home – and what many of us are missing when it comes to awareness and knowledge of the bustling midwestern destination.

“The Al Capone days are a long time behind us, but that’s still people’s picture of what Chicago is – rather than a gorgeous city on the lake,” she laughs.

“We’ve got a river that runs through us with this amazing River Walk, and we have a fabulous lake front that is free and clear with miles of parks where you can ride your bike and hike.”

She adds, “I’ve hosted many a mayor down here and they’re very jealous.”

And then there’s the famed misnomer for Chicago, the “Windy City,” which Osmond points out isn’t any windier, nor the weather worse in general, than many other places, including Toronto. She explains that the nickname was actually coined in the past to describe Chi-town’s blustery politicians.

A year ago, Osmond took over as the first female president and CEO of Choose Chicago after holding the same title at the Chicago Architecture Centre for a quarter of a century.

So, it’s no surprise that she is also quick to highlight Chicago’s special architectural heritage, prompting its title, “the Architectural Capital of North America.”

Cloudgate

Recognized as the home of the skyscraper – The Home Insurance Company’s building on the corner of LaSalle and Adams Street is considered world’s first tall building constructed with an internal frame when built in 1885 – the city continues to boast some of the tallest buildings in North America.

“We’ve got a fantastic skyline,” Osmond enthuses, adding, “We just have some beautiful buildings. And we continue to build wonderful buildings, but we have a great legacy from the buildings of the 1920s – we kept them; (and) we have this great art deco period.”

Similar in nature to New York, she notes, however, that Chicago’s buildings are spaced further apart, meaning, “You can see things (here). Between the river and the lakefront, you really get view corridors in the city.”

And the best way to experience it, she adds, is on the water – specifically on one the city’s popular river cruises, where visitors can “sit on a boat for 90 minutes and go through this canyon of phenomenal buildings and look up and see this great architecture. It’s just a great way to float through the city and see these towers that go back to the early 1920s, and up to the current day.”

Such as the St. Regis Chicago, which became the third tallest building in the city when completed in 2020 and is the tallest structure in the world built by a woman – Jeanne Gang.

Beyond its marvellous buildings, the city’s tourism CEO cites fabulous museums, vibrant theatre and cultural institutions, great sports (including two baseball teams, one playing at historic Wrigley Field), and fabulous restaurants, which include 23 Michelin-starred restaurants and 55 Bib Gourmands.

There’s also the River Walk, a 2-km. long public space filled with restaurants, bars, cafés, parks, view corridors, and where people can rent a boat or kayak. “It’s just a lovely way to enjoy the riverscape and it’s one of the great tourist attractions,” Osmond says.

Meanwhile, there’s no shortage of current and future developments planned for the midwestern city that are certain to keep Chicago’s fire stoked:

A short list includes:

• St. Regis Chicago: The latest of downtown Chicago’s 151 hotels, the 101-story St. Regis Chicago has already changed Chicago’s famous skyline. The tower’s crystalline form was inspired by the facets of a shimmering gem and the building is coated in six varying shades of blue-green glass to reflect the changing colours of Lake Michigan.

Now expected to open May 1, the ultra luxury hotel will comprise the first 11 floors of the building, featuring 192 guest rooms, multiple signature dining options, a world class St. Regis Spa, indoor pool, and outdoor sunken terrace with scenic views. The hotel’s backyard is a 2.4-hectare botanical green space featuring a children’s play park and attractive ornamental and water gardens

• NASCAR Chicago Street Race: For the first time, NASCAR will roar into Chicago on July 1-2 for the first street race in its 75-year history, which will take competitors past and through many of the city’s downtown landmarks from the start-finish line near Buckingham Fountain. The Cup Series will be part of a one-of-a-kind sports and entertainment festival featuring concerts with bands such as The Black Crowes over the Fourth of July Weekend.

• Obama Center: Once complete, the Obama Center will serve as a marquee destination in Jackson Park, the former president’s home neighbourhood. More than a presidential library, the Centre will hold his archives and chronicle the legacy of America’s first Black president, but also to contribute to and transform the local community. Along with extensive landscaped gardens, the Centre is slated to open in 2025.

Kayaking

With so much to recommend it, Chicago certainly rates with the domestic US audience, having been named the #1 Best City in the US” by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler in 2022 for a record sixth consecutive time.

However, Osmond believes there’s a lot that Canadians still don’t know the city.

Describing it as a “kinder, gentler” New York, she says Chicago is a cleaner (due to its system of alleys behind buildings), a walkable city that similarly has “amazing shopping, wonderful restaurants, incredible culture, eight sports teams…” and 77 unique neighbourhoods to explore, including large Hispanic and gay villages, Little Italy and the largest Polish population outside Warsaw (including attendant culinary highlights, from famous deep-dish pizza to Polish perogies and paczki donuts, and her favourite, Ethiopian cuisine).

Accessible from Toronto by a 90-minute flight with Air Canada, United, or Porter, or via an eight-hour drive, Chicago makes for an ideal getaway for Canadians, Osmond says.

Direct flights are also available from Montreal and Vancouver. And a host of top Canadian tour operators with product into the city include Air Canada Vacations, Porter Escapes, Group Voyages Québec, NHG Tours, and Toundra Voyages.

Pressed for a top five must-do liar for Canadians visitors, Osmond says:

• Do the architecture river cruise
• Go to a free concert in Millennium Park
• Bike the lakefront
• Visit one of the city’s great cultural institutions, like the Art Institute
• Go up to the top of one of the tall buildings for a panoramic view of the city and Lake Michigan.

And, she smiles, “I’m going to give you six: Experience the cuisine of the city. Eat your way through!”

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LET LIFE FLOW: Sandals Dunn’s River – A New Jamaican Resort Worthy of Its Storied Past

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The countdown is on until the wholly-reconceptualized and fully-renovated Sandals Dunn’s River opens for arrivals beginning May 24, 2023 and the treasured resort makes its long-wished for return to the Sandals portfolio.

Beloved by couples since its initial addition to the all-inclusive resort company’s portfolio in 1991, Sandals Dunn’s River will return as a brand new resort, reclaiming its edge as the pinnacle of Sandals luxury – with first-of-its-kind suite designs, to exclusive restaurant concepts and bars, to entirely new ways to experience Jamaica’s natural wonders.

The all-new 260-room Sandals Dunn’s River is undergoing a thoughtful, top-to-bottom restoration – designed to embrace the essence of Jamaica, its curving rivers, lush forests, and majestic banyan trees – with amenities, accommodations and culinary concepts brought forward by the brand’s uncompromising quest for innovation.

The resort started to accept reservations last summer on July 6, 2022 – on the birthday of Sandals’ legendary founder, the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart – as just a small homage to him.

“This was an extraordinary project and the last I worked on with him as his final masterpiece. My father handpicked this location more than three decades ago for its white-sand coastline, cool breeze, azure waters and its close proximity to the destination’s archetypical falls,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International. “It will not only serve to breathe new excitement into a corner of Jamaica loved and cherished by so many, but it will set a new standard of luxury for tourism right here in our backyard with a next-generation resort worthy of its nostalgic past.”

Accommodation Highlights: Taking Luxury to New Heights

Expanded suite concepts include the addition of brand-new Tufa SkyPool Butler Suites, which will feature glass panels spanning the length of oceanfront balconies, for a cascading infinity effect clear to the Caribbean Sea. At the Coyaba Swim-Up Rondoval Butler Suites with Private Pools, Sandals’ iconic, standalone villas are reimagined with vast open-air rooftops featuring private soaking tubs, sun-lounging areas and privileged views of the surrounding flora. Luxurious Mammee Bay Beachfront Butler Suites will be equipped with spacious balconies directly overlooking the ocean waters, with gold fixtures and green accents speckled throughout the resort’s various unique accommodations for a nature-meets-luxury effect that immerses guests in the setting’s unequivocal beauty.

More on the Menu

Culinary offerings at Sandals Dunn’s River will now include 12 Global Gourmet restaurants – with ten concepts entirely new to Sandals. Infused with the classic cooking techniques found in the finest establishments in France, L’Amande will serve an exquisite mélange of French delicacy and Jamaican fare in a chic setting. A Greek concept, Edessa, is where the Caribbean and Aegean seas will meet, elegantly named for the ancient city of abundant waters. From Thailand to Japan, the Asian-fusion menu at Banyu will offer a blend of cultures all in a single dish. Beloved staples, old and new, will satisfy cravings and please palates – from the Central and South American flavors at Zuka, debuted first at Sandals Royal Curaçao, to the rustic yet soulful Jerk Shack and its traditional sweet and peppery delights.

High spirits will long live at nine bars, each with a distinct identity – including the hip and sophisticated Dunn’s Rum Club, where the island’s signature libation will be shaken and stirred into authentic Jamaican craft cocktails expertly mixed with locally-sourced ingredients like coconut and sorrel-smoked rum. A first-of-its-kind experience, guests will enjoy an expertly curated list of smooth rums while trying their hand at a game of Jamaican-rules dominoes, where the best out of six wins. The Laughing Waters beach bar will offer bed-style seating for a truly effervescent experience right on the sand, with a jovial name and sparkling champagne cocktails to match. A ‘Sandals First’ in Jamaica, the rooftop bar, Ocarina, will pair spirits with the gentle sea breeze, while the chic Lapidus Lounge pays homage to renowned architect Morris Lapidus who designed the resort when it was first built as the Arawak Hotel in the 1950s.

Where the Fresh Water Flows

Cascading waters collected from the depths of the Dunn’s River Falls will greet guests upon arrival, with all water features sourced from the natural reserves of the rivers throughout the resort. Jamaica’s largest pool – designed to mimic the flow of the river – makes its way back into the Sandals Resorts fold. Featuring a glass panel edge, the pool will be brilliantly leveled to the sand for a water-meets-sand-meets-ocean effect, and is one of five refreshing pools from where to bask under the warm Jamaican sun.

The Red Lane Spa at Sandals Dunn’s River will debut as one of the most luxurious for the brand, speaking to the heart of Jamaica, the land of wood and water, with the sound of flowing water from Dunn’s River and Roaring Waters River cascading into the spa’s pools against an ethereal backdrop that is ever present.

Moments away, at one of Jamaica’s natural wonders – the honoured Dunn’s River Falls – guests will absorb the natural abundance of the Earth and experience a place where love flows naturally, forming natural connections and bringing the Sandals Dunn’s River experience full circle.

“Ocho Rios is the place where my father grew up, where he first learned to fish and felt the breeze blow along the West-facing beach and where he first saw the pure joy of the island on the faces of visitors,” said Stewart. “Here along Jamaica’s North Coast, he witnessed a blossoming tourism industry and became aware of how to please and serve a new Caribbean customer. Every touchpoint at the new Sandals Dunn’s River is designed to do that and more.”

Hear more about the new Sandals Dunn’s River directly from Sandals Resorts’ Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, on the Sandals Palmcast.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WHY IS JAMAICA’S BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE THE WORLD’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER COFFEE?

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Rhythmic reggae beats, mesmerizing beaches and waterfalls, friendly people, a vibrant culture and Blue Mountain Coffee — these are just a few of the amazing things that Jamaica is known for. While there are many reasons for your clients to visit this vibrant island, on top of that list is being able to wake up to the delightful aromas of a cup of the world-famous Blue Mountain Coffee.

Coffee lovers will be right at home at Sandals Resorts where guests can indulge in Blue Mountain Coffee at specialty restaurants, cafés, Club Sandals lounges, self-serve coffee stations, in their rooms and suites or even delivered with room service.

The best part? It’s all included, all unlimited, all the time. In fact, Sandals pours an average of 30,000 cups a day of freshly ground Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee across all their resorts in the Caribbean.

Guests of the all-new Sandals Dunn’s River (opening on May 24, 2023) will be in for a special treat with the brand’s first-ever BLŪM café, inspired by Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. Here, guests can experience a fresh cup of the legendary coffee, along with Japanese-style and nitro cold brews, best enjoyed with island inspired treats.

Let’s take a closer look at why Jamaica’s Blue Mountain Coffee is so extremely popular?

The history of Blue Mountain Coffee in Jamaica is intriguing. In 1723 when Martinique was a colony of France, King Louis XV sent a few coffee plants to Martinique to be cultivated. Five years later, the governor of Martinique gifted the governor of Jamaica, Sir Nicholas Lawes, with a single coffee plant. This plant was nurtured and many, many more were grown signalling the beginning of the coffee industry in Jamaica!

What makes Blue Mountain Coffee so special?

1. The high-altitude area where the beans are grown
Blue Mountain coffee is grown in the misty Blue Mountains of Jamaica, which can be found to the north of the country’s capital, Kingston. The coffee beans thrive in the rich, volcanic soil of the mountains and must be cultivated at altitudes of 3,000 – 5,500 feet to receive the honor of being called Blue Mountain Coffee. This means that only coffee harvested at this altitude from the parishes within the mountain range, like St. Mary, St. Andrew, Portland and St. Thomas, will qualify for this prestigious label. At this elevation, the coffee plants get just as much water as they need. They are also less susceptible to disease and they get plenty of time to develop their rich flavours.

2. All beans are picked and separated by hand
These coffee beans undergo a thorough examination before they can be approved for the next stage of their intricate developmental process. Machines are sometimes used to extract the best beans, after which these beans are scrutinized individually to ensure they are of the right size and are smooth and void of any imperfections.

3. Only the best beans make the cut
Even after being carefully selected and roasted, the beans must be approved by the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica. The board ensures that only coffee beans of a premium quality are used to make the unique Blue Mountain Coffee. This unique brand is protected by the board with rules and regulations in place so that the coffee is grown under the right conditions and that a standard product is delivered to consumers. Once the requirements have been met and the board is satisfied, the coffee receives the internationally renowned Blue Mountain Seal of Approval.

Discover the delightful aromas of Blue Mountain Coffee yourself!

With just enough sunshine and rainfall for coffee plants to thrive and blossom, the Blue Mountains of Jamaica are the ideal location for the many coffee plantations that can be found along its expansive terrain. The coffee produced here is one of a kind, and it is loved for its smooth, sweet taste and fragrant aroma. This island is one such place where you can have Blue Mountain coffee and be assured that the possibility is high that what’s in your cup is truly authentic!

Don’t be fooled! How to spot fake Blue Mountain Coffee

The best way to know the real from the fake when it comes to Blue Mountain Coffee is to check the seal. All official brands should have the Coffee Industry Board Seal with a mark of certification, which is usually a blue circle with the words “Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee” inside. You can also ask the seller for the declaration paperwork that is given to all official sellers.

If you don’t know what to look for, it might be hard to spot the difference between the fake and real product. Another way to check is to read the packaging. The planting, harvesting and packaging of Blue Mountain Coffee is all done in Jamaica and any label which says otherwise is not attached to a genuine product.

The easiest way to differentiate fake Blue Mountain Coffee from the real product, might be the price. Blue Mountain Coffee takes twice as long to harvest as other types of coffee, making it a highly sought out brand. So, if the coffee itself is very cheap, then chances are that you’re being duped.

The unforgettable taste and sweet aroma of Blue Mountain Coffee has definitely made its way onto the list of reasons Jamaica should be a bucket list destination. These in-demand beans have become the standard bearer for premium coffee and are definitely worth waking up to in a place that will definitely take your breath away!

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

THE “SUITE” LIFE AT SANDALS DUNN’S RIVER

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When Sandals Dunn’s River opens on May 24, 2023, it will set a new standard of excellence in Jamaica, offering one-of-a-kind accommodations where nature and luxury go hand in hand. Modern designs inspired by the stunning phenomenon of the Dunn’s River, encapsulating the rainforest backdrop for this tranquil place, these accommodations have been elevated to new heights with Jamaica’s natural elements present in every experience across the resort.

Keep reading for highlights of some of the innovative suites set to be unveiled soon at Sandals Dunn’s River – perfect for honeymoon clients or couples looking to relax and reconnect in the ultimate romantic room.

Coyaba Sky Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suite with Private Pool Sanctuary

This intimate, first-of-their-kind Love Nest Butler Suite reinvents the landscape of luxury suites. This new, leading-edge Rondoval offers a unique, private rooftop hideaway. With access to a sprawling river pool, the outdoor space provides just as many opportunities to soak up the sun. Clients can relax in the lounge chairs, a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or share a meal on the pool-side terrace. Once inside, guests will encounter a broad space with a king-size bed, HD Smart TV and an opulent private pool sanctuary with direct access from the bedroom. The sitting area features modern furniture, a second HD Smart TV and in-room bar stocked with premium brand drinks. The spa-style bathroom offers an additional touch of luxury with a walk-in shower, a second Tranquility Soaking Tub and vanity with double sinks. The lavish experience is complete with 24-hour in-room dining, a personal butler and private in-suite check-in.

Tufa Terrace One Bedroom SkyPool Butler Suite with Balcony Tranquility
Soaking Tub

Sandals’ signature SkyPool suites make their debut in Jamaica, following the successful introduction at Sandals Grenada, followed by Sandals Royal Barbados. Sitting high on the lavish Tufa Terrace building, this exquisite Love Nest Butler Suite® will exceed all expectations of luxury. As guests gaze outside, they’ll be met with an infinity-edge private SkyPool and outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. The spacious bedroom features a king-size bed and HD Smart TV. The modern living room boasts plush furniture and another HD Smart TV. The spa-inspired bathroom is an oasis with a second Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, walk-in rainfall shower and double sink with lighted vanities. This romantic enclave also comes with a fully-stocked bar including premium liquors, a personal butler, 24-hour in-room dining and private in-suite check-in.

Mammee Bay Beachfront One Bedroom Butler Suite with Balcony Tranquility
Soaking Tub

Located in the Mammee Bay building, guests can gaze outside from an expansive private balcony with spectacular views thanks to glass panels spanning the length of oceanfront balconies, complete with a bistro dining set, privacy curtains and a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. The expansive interior is styled with sophisticated furnishings and includes a king-size bed and HD Smart TV. In the living room, guests enjoy a comfortable seating area with sofa with a fully stocked bar with premium liquor and an additional HD Smart TV. The spa-style bathroom is just as captivating with luxury amenities, a vanity with dual sinks and walk-in shower plus separate soaking tub. Exclusive Butler Elite service with 24-hour in-room dining and private in-room check are also included with this room category.

Travertine Beachfront Penthouse Club Level Room with Balcony Tranquility
Soaking Tub

Set on the top floor of the Travertine building, this penthouse suite has one of the best ocean views on the resort. Guests can take in the spectacular views from their balcony with a private Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. The interior is modern and ample with a king-size bed, fully stocked bar, an HD Smart TV and a sofa chair. The exquisite bathroom features a spacious walk-in shower, dual sink with vanity and make-up table. Guests also enjoy the exclusive Club Sandals Lounge and devoted concierge services to handle any special requests and reservations.

Rooms and suites to choose from:




For more information on these suites and others Sandals Dunn’s River, contact your local Sandals BDM or call Inside Sales at 1-800-545-8283

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International’s INNSiDE Brand Expands in Asia

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, March 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Cultural hubs of Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are set to get their first INNSiDE property. As digital nomads wander into the farthest-flung reaches of the world, Meliá Hotels International is expanding its INNSiDE brand throughout Asia with the opening of two new INNSiDE hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.

INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure. Always true to their destination, they give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community.

First to debut is the 238-room INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras, which will be the first INNSiDE hotel to open in Malaysia this March. Situated in the vibrant commercial hub of Cheras, surrounded by shopping and nightlife, the new property places visitors in a prime location for business and leisure.

The property will introduce a range of eco-measures including such in-room amenities as wheat straw yoga mats, solar-powered LED lighting, and a plastic-free environment. To enhance co-working and stimulate ideas, the hotel has two vibrant multifunctional areas, the Big Ideas Space and The Recording Studio. Both are on the 5th floor and near an alfresco palm tree-fringed infinity pool with an expansive sun-lounging deck that provides space for visitors to take a break.

The 208-room INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, in the city’s trendy On Nut neighborhood, embraces the local culture with design touches inspired by temples and Bangkok landmarks, while also offering the creative work and play spaces that underpin the INNSiDE brand. Guests can take in the vibrant cityscape from the towering windows of the hotel’s expansive co-working space on the 32nd floor. Further up the sky high pool bar and open-air swimming pool occupy the two topmost floors. Dining options at the property highlight local cuisine and also honor the Meliá brand’s Spanish roots. A tapas restaurant will provide a culinary pilgrimage across Spain. The Bangkok property will also eliminate single-use plastic and provide drinking water in recycled glass bottles.

Both properties join INNSiDE by Meliá Yogyakarta, and INNSiDE by Meliá Zhengzhou, which both opened in 2017.

INNSiDE by Meliá Yogyakarta is located in a city famous for its vibrant art scene and cultural sites, the 242-key property has an artistic, playful vibe. The property’s Big Ideas Space captures this fun essence with a mini bar and relaxation area all incorporated into a meeting room. The Sky Deck Rooftop Pool & Bar provides space to unwind and socialize while taking in incomparable views of Merapi mountain. The team at the property are also applying some unique green initiatives. Used eggshells are turned into fertilizer, which is used in the fruit and vegetable garden, where such produce as passion fruit, melon, chili, and banana are grown.

INNSiDE by Meliá Zhengzhou is located in a thriving business district of the capital of China’s Henan province. The city has a rich history with ancient ruins and famous nearby temples. The modern 335-room property features all the trimmings of the INNSiDE brand including an all-day dining restaurant, SYNDEO, that pays tribute to local cuisine. The hotel also gives a special welcome to guests’ furry friends.

INNSiDE properties feature communal areas, like the Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, that are designed so guests can feel more-than-at-home and can connect with like-minded people. Sustainability is also important in all INNSiDE hotels, with each hotel opting to go plastic-free and offering complimentary organic cosmetics.

Globally Meliá operates 38 INNSiDE hotels in 14 different countries. All properties are in the best lifestyle neighborhoods of popular travel destinations, from Madrid to Manchester and Prague to Paris. The two new properties will be the first INNSiDE hotels in Thailand and Malaysia.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has a portfolio of more than 400 hotels (portfolio and pipeline), throughout more than 40 countries, and 10 brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Affiliated by Meliá. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company worldwide, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, and it is also a “Top Employer 2023” brand in Spain, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Italy and Germany. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

About INNSiDE by Meliá
INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds and fluid lives. Always true to their destination, they give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community of like-minded travellers.

INNSiDE provides guests with all the everyday essentials and extra-special details to make their stay all the more unique. From in-room comforts to the inspiring Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, we allow guests to feel more-than-at-home.

Sustainability is also packed into all the little details: every room is equipped with paper and plastic-free collateral and complimentary organic cosmetics. INNSiDE celebrates the culture of each of its locations with an events calendar, handy city guides for guests, and by spotlighting a local artist’s work across the hotel walls and onto merchandise and staff uniforms.

There are currently 39 INNSiDE by Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the best lifestyle neighbourhood travel destinations. Some of them are Spain (Madrid, Mallorca, Ibiza, Fuerteventura, Zaragoza), United Kingdom (Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester), United States (New York, Lima), Germany (Berlin​, Bremen​, Frankfurt​, Munich​, Dresden​, Düsseldorf​, Aachen​, Leipzig​, Hamburg​) Czech Republic ​(Prague), France (Paris), Italy​ (Milano​), China​ (Zhengzhou​) Vietnam​ (Ho Chi Minh City​) Indonesia​ (Yogyakarta) and Netherlands​ (Amsterdam).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News