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SPAIN PREPARES FOR PICASSO MILESTONE

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With 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of the death of one of its most famous artists – Pablo Picasso – Spain has launched a campaign to appeal to fans of the creative genius with a full slate of events in five cities throughout the year.

While Picasso was born in Malaga in 1881 (and died on April 8, 1973), the artist lived most of his adult life in France. But with the campaign “Spain Inspired Picasso, Come Find Your Inspiration,” launched in Canada last week by Turespana, the Spanish tourist office is hoping to “keep the artist’s memory alive,” and inspire visitors to have a fresh look at the country through the artist’s eyes.

“It’s a very good time to visit…” Malaga Tourism Board CEO Jonathan Gomez Punzon, told the trade audience in Toronto, with the Embassy’s of Spain’s consul for tourism affairs in Canada Barbara Couto noting that Canadians have ample airlift and gateways to the Iberian country.

The event, also attended by Malaga deputy mayor Jacobo Florido, featured Spanish food (paella) and lively entertainment (singing and dancing), reminding that there is much more to Spain that will inspire visitors than simply the memory of the great artist.

Jonathan Gomez Punzon, Barbara Couto, and Jacobo Florido

The Picasso milestone is in fact a large-scale transnational event between Spain and France, which will also be marked by 42 exhibitions in Europe and the US, with hopes that Canadian events will also take shape.

In Spain, Couto said the five cities – Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Bilbao, and A Coruna – all of which were a particular a source of inspiration to Picasso, leaving a mark on his personality and his art, will be prominent in the celebrations, which will feature museum, gallery, and art school exhibits, symposiums and online opportunities, but also gastronomy and touring itineraries created by the tourist board.

Perhaps most admired for his role in the origins of cubism, Picasso also earned notoriety as a passionate anti-fascist, as symbolized in his famous masterpiece “Guernica.”

His life as one of the 20th century’s most influential, unorthodox, and celebrated artists, including his tumultuous relationships and shifting political alliances, was chronicled in the National Geographic Channel’s 10-part fictional series Emmy-awarding docudrama “Genius” in 2018, with Antonio Banderas starring as the artist.

For more information on Picasso in Spain, click HERE.

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: The strangest Christmas song yet

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I don’t want to be a Grinch, but after too many years on this planet to mention I must concede that the usual Christmas songs that begin to permeate many aspects of life, starting far too early in November I might add, tend to wear on me. So, imagine my surprise at actually hearing something new (well, 2017).

I had occasion recently to find myself in an amazing bar slash music venue in Lexington, Kentucky, called The Burl, watching a band called the Steep Canyon Rangers (SCR) – an impressive, infectious bluegrass outfit that I soon learned had garnered some fame as a backing band for comedian Steve Martin, who moonlights as a banjo player of some renown beyond (and sometimes in conjunction) with his day job as a wild and crazy guy.

So, now the surprise: as I tootled through YouTube in search of suitable SCR bluegrass bonanza to share, I found this instead – and just in time for my favourite musical time of year.

It’s a true Christmas gift indeed! Enjoy (and yes that’s my boys SCR is the background).

Lyrics

Every year the wife and I lay out the welcome mat
For all the in-laws far and wide and our third cousin, Jack
We trim the tree and hang the wreath and every time forget
That what comes through our door each year
Is the strangest Christmas yet
Two full days fore Christmas Eve, grandma comes by car
With a pumpkin pie that she had baked that tastes like her cigar
She pulls up in a pickup truck with crazy Uncle Don
He parks it where he does each year, right on our front lawn

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, so strange
Strangest Christmas yet, Wooo
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

Oh lookie here the children dear have built a roaring fire
Too bad it’s in our driveway and with a stolen tire
Then came time for photographs the camera’s set to strobe
And I said to Uncle Bob, “You wanna close your robe?”
Cousin Billy likes his guns, and naturally he came armed
He’s on the lookout for invaders from the planet Zarn
Uncle Teddy put on weight, he’d gotten rather large
We couldn’t take him through the door, he stayed in the garage

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, how strange
Strangest Christmas yet, really strange
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

We blessed the food in different faiths that seemed to number seven
And say a prayer that with just some help just might get to heaven
Then from the garage we hear a sound that makes us ache
Uncle Teddy with a voice so pure that your heart would break
“Joy to the world” he knows no other line
“Joy to the world” he sings it one more time
“Joy to the world” we here it once again

We all take hands and quiet down and let it all sink in
I take him out a plate of food and thank him for the song
He says so sorry that I might’ve got the words a little wrong
We tip our glasses, give a hug, and toast to Christmas cheer
And count the months until we get to see them all next year

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, we love it
Strangest Christmas yet, can’t wait till next year
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet
Hey put down that spatula!
Take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Celebrates the Power of “One in a Million” in Anti-Trafficking Milestone

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With the United Nations General Assembly recognition of Human Rights Day on December 10, 2022, Marriott International today announced it has successfully trained one million associates to spot the signs of and respond to human trafficking. This marks a significant moment in the global fight against trafficking.

Marriott International first introduced human trafficking awareness training in 2016 and rolled out enhanced training in 2021. Designed in collaboration with Polaris, a leading nonprofit that specializes in combating human trafficking and helping survivors of trafficking, the training features scenario-based examples to help hotel associates recognize the signs of trafficking in real-world context and provides response guidance for managers.

“I could not be prouder of our one million associates who completed their training — they truly are one in a million,” said Anthony Capuano, Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International. “While it is heart-wrenching to hear stories of human trafficking, Marriott is empowering associates across the globe to learn the signs, act quickly, and help combat these horrible crimes. Today is an important milestone along our journey to train all on-property associates by 2025. It takes just one associate to stop a trafficking situation and we are pleased to have donated the training to the broader industry to expand the impact.”

The training extends beyond Marriot International’s portfolio of hotels. With the support of the American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation, Marriott International continues to make the training available to the hospitality industry and beyond via ECPAT-USA.

Marriott International Training by the Numbers

  • 1 million+ unique associate training completions
  • 8,200 hotels
  • 138 countries and territories
  • 570,000+ training hours
  • 90 job functions trained
  • 17 languages provided
Marriott_HTA_Infographic_vF.jpg

The latest estimates from the International Labour Organization indicate that 28 million people are trafficked each year globally. The number of trafficked people has risen significantly in the last five years. Ten million more people were involved in trafficking situations in 2021 compared to 2016 global estimates, and women and children remain disproportionately vulnerable.

To hear firsthand accounts about the company’s training in action, watch the video below. Check out Marriott International’s YouTube page for more videos.

Will You Be a Million and One?

The online training can be taken for free at https://www.ecpatusa.org/hotel-training.

To learn more about Marriott International’s work to combat human trafficking globally visit Welcome All and Advance Human Rights I Marriott International Serve360.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc., (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,200 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact
Christin Fernandez
Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations
Marriott International
Christin.Fernandez@Marriott.com
+1 (301) 380-7838

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Inviting Romance in Bali at Tanah Gajah by Hadiprana

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Inviting Romance in Bali at Tanah Gajah by Hadiprana - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, December 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A secluded property in the highlands of Ubud has long been a popular spot for intimate weddings and the honeymoon crowd but you don’t need to say “I do,” to enjoy Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana’s romantic allure. The Balinese property is ticking all the boxes for a romantic getaway this Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and beyond.

The Art of Romance is a two-night stay with all the romantic trimmings. Upon arrival each couple will find a floral aromatherapy bath already drawn in their room and a welcome cake. After that it’s time for afternoon tea, served picnic style while overlooking the scenic rice paddies the property is known for. A photo session, shot throughout the grounds, uses mythical stone sculptures, ponds graced with swans, rice paddies, temples, and the verdant landscape as a backdrop. Ten edited images are included in the package.

At the resort’s Tempayan restaurant, housed in a traditional bale-inspired building, the duo will enjoy a three-course candlelit meal under Chef Dean’s direction, the Singaporean chef who has helmed the property’s kitchen and flourishing organic garden for over a decade.

A 120-minute couples spa ritual in a deluxe double spa suite, with an oversized semi-outdoor terrazzo bath, and private steam shower, rounds out the romantic stay and is accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine to be enjoyed in or out of the tub.

The Art of Romance also includes:

  • Welcome drink
  • Personal butler service
  • Daily a la carte breakfast
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits delivered to your villa or suite
  • Daily afternoon tea from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Panen Padi Lounge
  • Daily sunset cocktails from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
  • All snacks and beverages including an alcoholic selection from the minibar (replenished once daily)
  • Daily laundry service up to six pieces per villa (excluding dry cleaning)
  • Car service to/from Ubud Centre with a private car between 8:00 am – 6:00 pm equipped with Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi access in the suite/villa and public areas
  • Access to the tennis court and health club

The package is on offer for bookings until June 30, 2023. Rates start from USD 1,190 nett.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International to Expand Luxury Portfolio in Next Three Years

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Meliá Hotels International to Expand Luxury Portfolio in Next Three Years - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, December 15,  2022 / TRAVELINDEX /  Meliá Hotels International, the world’s most authentic Spanish hotel brand and the third largest hotel group in Europe, is proud to announce that one in three hotel openings between 2023 and 2026 will be within its luxury portfolio. Bringing Spanish prestige, tradition and flair to its guests in every destination, the family run public company brand offers an unrivalled opportunity to travel in an ethically, socially, culturally and environmentally conscious manner.

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

The luxury brand rooted in Mediterranean heritage and born in Palma de Mallorca in 1956, demonstrates its rapid growth, continued success and commitment to the luxury travel industry. This year’s new sustainable leader and first carbon-neutral prototype, Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá in Menorca, strengthened the brand’s position, which is elevated further with key upcoming luxury hotel openings: Palazzo Cordusio, a Gran Meliá Hotel in Milan, Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel in Tanzania, ME Malta, ME Lisbon, ME Guadalajara in Mexico, Paradisus Gran Canaria, Paradisus Salinas in Lanzarote, and Gran Meliá Nha Trang in Vietnam.

Already the 19th largest hotel group worldwide with a presence across six continents and 42 countries, Meliá’s growth echoes the brand’s key pillars of its Mediterranean legacy, a global and expanding footprint, sustainability, and creating travel experiences to truly discover the destinations.

“In today’s market, luxury and exclusivity can no longer be defined from one perspective, therefore our luxury brands seek to address the world of luxury in different ways. Our mission is to provide conscious travel for an enriching lifestyle”, says Mr Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “We have an impressive pipeline and our prime luxury hotels will spearhead our continued upwards trajectory, not just in destinations of Meliá’s roots of the Mediterranean, but further afield to Africa and Asia too,” he adds.

Palazzo Cordusio, a Gran Meliá Hotel in Milan, will be housed in Palazzo Venezia, one of the most iconic Renaissance buildings in the city. Opening in Q3, 2023, the emblematic Palazzo Cordusio sets a major milestone in being Gran Meliá’s first Milanese property and reaffirms Meliá’s strengthening footprint in Italy. The hotel will preserve the building’s cultural prestige with the hotel’s historic façade whilst renovating the 84 guestrooms, restaurants and rooftop bar. In-house architect Álvaro Sans will create elegant spaces and sophisticated interiors to entice gourmand-lovers and cultured travellers.

The most recent brand addition to the hotel group, The Meliá Collection, is also opening a new property next year. Further afield to the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, Meliá will launch its fourth luxury hotel in the African country and its first within the Crater itself – Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel. Opening in June 2023, this five-star lodge will complete the brand’s safari circuit, boast the largest – yet still modest – hotel room offering in the Crater, and heighten Meliá’s commitment to sustainability and respectful exploration of the destination with Ngorongoro Conservation Area being a protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a rare site where wildlife coexists with semi-nomadic Maasai pastoralists.

The newly renovated 56-key hotel will display local artwork and feature neutral tones and traditional designs, coupled with remarkable views across the surrounding untouched landscape and the Crater, and subtle nods to Meliá’s Spanish heritage via guest experiences and culinary concepts. With considered environmental initiatives such as producing the hotel’s own electricity, solar energy and drinking water, employing local Maasai tribe members and collaborating with the Moshi-based NGO Born to Learn, Ngorongoro Lodge will introduce a cultural and eco-conscious hotel for discerning travellers.

Across the Mediterranean, ME Malta will launch on the island’s eastern coast in St Julians in the second half of 2023, presenting a new social and cultural epicentre for cosmopolitan travellers to discover the latest art, culture, music and fashion in the vibrant city. Designed by world-famous architect Zaha Hadid, it will become a new and profound destination to elevate Malta’s urban landscape – and the second ME by Meliá hotel created solely by the late Dame Hadid, following ME Dubai. The hotel’s 140 rooms and suites, spa and meeting spaces will boast bold yet elegant interiors, accompanied by innovative culinary offerings and ME by Meliá’s signature Radio Rooftop Bar where expert mixologists, professional DJs and exciting events will attract local and international guests. With culture at the core of ME by Meliá thanks to its programme ‘The Culture Collective’, and Malta being the official host of EuroPride 2023, this synergy will bring a momentous drive for the destination.

Another ME by Meliá hotel will launch as the brand’s first in the country, with ME Lisbon opening in Q2 2024. Perched up near Parque Eduardo VII, the hotel arrives as the city’s first luxury lifestyle hotel joining the high-end hospitality scene and marks a further milestone for Meliá’s European expansion.

Further afield, ME Guadalajara will open in Q4 2023 as the second ME by Meliá hotel in Mexico as well as the brand’s first urban hotel in Mexico. The brand will bring its unique style, personality and luxury lifestyle approach to one of the most cosmopolitan and cultural cities in the country. ME Guadalajara will comprise 152 rooms and suites, as well as a sky pool and signature rooftop area. In line with other global ME hotels, it will also offer a wide range of outstanding dining experiences.

Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels International’s fourth luxury brand, and currently solely located in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, marks significant news in 2023 with its inaugural European openings: Paradisus Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, in January and Paradisus Salinas, Lanzarote, in March. These resorts will be a blend of the brand’s signature family-friendly luxury approach with Paradisus’ new concept, ‘Destination Inclusive’. A concept that elevates the ‘all-inclusive’ notion to a new level, ensuring that the destination is now an essential part of the holiday experience. Each guest will be able to have a fully unique, immersive and authentic taste of the locality and embrace natural experiences through each resort’s sustainable design and philosophy. Paradisus Salinas will be housed in a building designed by Spanish architect Fernando Higueras, which is part of Lanzarote’s artistic and cultural heritage. The luxury resort will enable guests to discover the island’s culture, explore its natural beauty and delve into a holistic experience.

Exclusive destination experiences include Yoga Masterclass by a cenote – a natural crystal waters lagoon in Mexico – or guided tours through Lanzarote’s most iconic spots designed by artist and nature activist Cesar Manrique will be included for guests who choose to upgrade to the brand’s ‘Reserve’ or Niktè’ top rooms and suites. Paradisus’ The Reserve offers an alternative to the main hotel and instead, is a separate adult-only oasis offering a unique and superior experience, with the most exclusive suites, lounges, private areas and selected restaurants with signature and local cuisine. There is also another equally extraordinary category, the Nikté Superior Upgrades, ideal for families looking for experiences regardless of age, with fully customisable activities for each member of the family.

Heightening the hotel brand’s presence in Asia has been of equal calibre this year, and Meliá is already set to become one of the largest international hotel brands in Vietnam. The forthcoming opening of Gran Meliá Nha Trang in Vega City, Vietnam, in Q2 2023, will reaffirm Meliá’s position in the region and luxury market. Designed to become a symbol of modern architecture, the ultra-luxury hotel’s 99 exclusive beachfront private villas offer elevated space and privacy, with guest experiences pivoting around gastronomy and wellbeing. Meliá’s signature Mediterranean roots are seen through the culinary offering blending Spanish cuisine with local ingredients, accompanied by swimming pools, a Beach Club, a spa and fitness centre for undisturbed escapism.

Across the existing and upcoming portfolio, sustainability is a key component and Mr Escarrer has always encouraged corporate responsibility and sustainability across Meliá’s social, economic and environmental pillars. Having led the S&P’s Global sustainability ranking in 2019 and 2020, Meliá was named the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe for the third consecutive year in 2021, and Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá set new standards for the group’s ongoing eco-commitment. Since its launch this summer, the hotel has received several awards such as the Rethink Award for the best hotel sustainability and rehabilitation project from the Habitat Futura Group, and has been acknowledged as the Best Sustainability initiative in the Balearic Islands, setting a benchmark for hotel-efficiency and decarbonisation in the Biosphere Reserve destination.

Mr André P. Gerondeau, COO of Meliá Hotels International, says “Following the success of Villa Le Blanc, we are delighted to have this level of growth and positioning in the luxury market. We are proudly and deservedly becoming one of the main players in the HNW and UHNW space, and simultaneously reaching all corners of the planet.”

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. 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 in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Endsleigh Partners with Pattern to Protect Students on the Slopes

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Students can now take out personalised Winter Sports protection thanks to a collaboration between education sector specialist Endsleigh Insurance and its partner Pattern.

This innovative approach to Winter Sports insurance is the latest development in the partnership between Endsleigh and Pattern and uses global insurtech MGA Pattern’s insurance platform, to offer students tailored winter sports cover.

Whether snowboarding, skiing, or simply enjoying the apres-ski, this unique cover will protect students against damage to their equipment and provide a refund for unused ski passes in the event of illness and injury.

Alison Meckiffe, chief executive of Endsleigh, said: “If you’re a student who has paid a lot of money for a ski holiday this winter, the last thing you want is anything ruining that trip and throwing that money away, whether it’s a last-minute cancellation due to an injury or damage to your equipment when you arrive. We’re constantly looking for ways to innovate and offer our customers bespoke protections tailored to their specific needs, and our partnership with Pattern helps us easily achieve this.”

With recent OnePoll stats claiming that 57% of adults would rather book activity-filled breaks than beach holidays, the launch of Endsleigh’s new Winter Sports Protection is extremely timely.

The ability to shape insurance to meet students’ individual requirements can now extend beyond skiing in the Winter. With Pattern’s platform, Endsleigh can easily design and roll out any number of protections to address students’ different needs for holidays and breaks throughout the year.

Meitav Harpaz, CEO and co-founder of Pattern Insurance, said: “The new Winter Sports protection we’ve developed with Endsleigh is a great example of how we work with partners who have a unique audience to develop tailored products. This is the second product we are rolling out with Endsleigh, and with the ease of using our platform, we anticipate this new product from Endsleigh will be very popular with students looking for a winter getaway this year.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Means Business Following ASEAN Role

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Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Means Business Following ASEAN Role - TRAVELINDEXPHNOM PENH, Cambodia, December 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has proven it means business through its key supporting role during Cambodia’s term as ASEAN chair.

Now the property, the newest international branded luxury hotel in Phnom Penh, aims to cement its status as the nation’s top destination for corporate travelers.

In its role as ASEAN chair, Cambodia has steered the course of intergovernmental cooperation between the ten member states in the region through several events and meetings held during 2022.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has stepped up to the plate during this period to help ensure the smooth running of proceedings. Proving its credentials as a property that can thrive on the big stage, the hotel hosted some side events and accommodated ministers, delegates, and other political and administrative personnel.

“Our hotel has risen to the occasion in support of ASEAN activities throughout the year is a source of immense pride,” says Juan Mercadante, general manager at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh.

“Hosting such an important event and dignitaries is an inspiring business for a hotel. Everything has to run like clockwork and everyone needs to be at the top of their game. Supporting Cambodia in its role as chair of ASEAN was both an honor and a test. We’d like to think that we passed with flying colors.”

In supporting ASEAN activities, the hotel has reaffirmed its reputation as Cambodia’s most dynamic hotel for business travelers.

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s cultural and business district of Doun Penh, the latest addition from Hyatt is a 30-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance of the Royal Palace, National Museum, and the Tonle Sap riverside. Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh provides business travelers with modern comfort and convenience alongside warm Cambodian hospitality in one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh features 1,400 square meters of meeting and event space for hosting business conferences and social gatherings. The pillarless Regency Ballroom can accommodate up to 490 guests and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the only built-in, full-color LED screen in the city.

Meanwhile, nine meeting suites and social spaces provide flexible arrangements – from a boardroom for 14 people to a reception space for 200 guests.

Additionally, The Poolhouse features an outdoor barbecue area and an open terrace, accommodating up to 70 guests. Most venues offer natural sunlight and come with the latest audiovisual facilities such as smart LED televisions, high-definition video conferencing suites, and Wi-Fi.

“Phnom Penh is set to be a key destination for foreign investors, offering political and economic stability and attractive government investment incentives,” added Mercadante. “With our fantastic facilities, central location, and corporate-savvy staff, Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is well positioned to support this shift.”

About Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh
Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh opened on January 6, 2021, marking the first Hyatt hotel in the Cambodian capital and the debut of the Hyatt Regency brand in the Kingdom of Wonder. With 247 guestrooms including 43 residential-style suites, the new Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is set to become the largest internationally branded hotel in the city. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s cultural and business district of Doun Penh, the latest addition from Hyatt is a 30-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance of the Royal Palace, National Museum, and the Tonle Sap riverside. Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh provides business travelers with modern comfort and convenience alongside warm Cambodian hospitality in one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

About Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt Regency brand prides itself on making travel free from stress and filled with success. More than 195 conveniently located Hyatt Regency urban and resort locations in more than 30 countries around the world serve as the go-to gathering space for every occasion, from efficient personalized, high-touch business meetings to energizing family vacations. The brand offers stress-free environments for seamless gatherings and empathetic service that anticipates guests’ needs. Designed for productivity and peace of mind, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts offer a full range of services and amenities, including the space to work, engage or relax; notable culinary experiences; technology-enabled ways to collaborate; and expert meeting and event planners who can take care of every detail.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fickle Winds Limit the 34th Phuket King’s Cup on Day Four

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Fickle Winds Limit the 34th Phuket King's Cup on Day Four - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, December 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Heavy waves on Kata Beach hampered crews’ ability to reach their boats today, so the Phuket King’s Cup race committee delayed the start of racing for just over an hour. But the wind gods didn’t want to come out to play today. After completing the first race, and shortening it due to lack of wind, the race officer, after consulting wind forecasts decided to call it a day and send the sailors home early.

In the IRC Zero class, the two TP52s (THA 72 and Team Hollywood) continued to battle it out with Kevin and Tom Whitcraft’s THA 72 triumphant beating Ray Roberts’ Team Hollywood by .08 seconds on corrected time. All eyes will be on this class tomorrow, the final race day, as Team Hollywood leads THA 72 by two points. Sarab Singh and Nick Burns’ Windsikher, the winner of 29th King’s Cup, will have to settle for third overall in this class.

Kazuki Kihara’s Japanese crew on Char Chan continued to do well in the IRC One class winning today’s race with Matti Sepp’s Judy placing second and Craig Douglas’ Ramrod coming third. At the top mark Ramrod had a half-leg lead in this class but when they turned the mark and the wind died, Char Chan passed and beat them.

Garry Holt’s Let’s Get It On was fourth followed by Morten Jakobsen’s Hanuman XXXIX. Craig Nichols Alright has been dogged with problems since the regatta started and didn’t start for the second consecutive race day. Heading into the last day, Char Chan has a three-point lead over Ramrod and a five-point margin Let’s Get It On. Char Chan used to be called Karasu, and it was one of the most successful boats in King’s Cup history.

In the Premier Cruising class, the Thai-owned X-Yacht Pine Pacific continued to sail well claiming another victory with Peter Cremers Shatoosh coming in second and Simon Piff’s Firstlight finishing third again. This is another class that will be closely watched on the final day as Pine Pacific holds a two-point lead over Shatoosh after today’s racing.

Jakob Handte’s Fei Jian won the Charter Cruising Class today followed by Masami Yamashita’s Inlova. Torben Kristensen’s Kinnon was unable to be repaired in time after its collided with Hermann Schwarz’ 2Fast4you on the course in race day three. Going into the final day, Fei Jian has won this class but Inlova and Kinnon stand tied in points for second spot going into the final day of racing.

Jakob Handte, Markus Schweizes and Peter Jung form the core crew of Fei Jian, which they have been chartering for the past decade. Back home, they regularly sail on Lake Constance, Western Europe’s largest lake. Though accomplished sailors, this is the first time that they will their class in three decades of sailing the King’s Cup. Handte and Jung first joined the regatta back in 1993 after making a boat delivery from Singapore. Schweizes joined the team a short time later and they have been making a pilgrimage to Phuket ever since. They even came last year where there wasn’t a regatta. Aside from the sailing, they love the people and food in Phuket and take in the opportunity to go golfing when they are not sailing. Handte also gave credit to Phuketians for their urban planning and environmental clean-up initiatives. And he thanked the race committee as well for shortening the course on day three as the wind let up and not keeping the sailors on the water for too long today when it became evident that it was going to be very difficult to get in another race.

The Multihull OMR class saw Hermann Schwarz’ 2Fast4you bounce back from its collision with Kinnon on Wednesday defeating Hang Chen’s ZOE for the fourth time in five races giving it a commanding lead in this class going into the final day.

The Royal Awards Ceremony will be on 10th December 2022 at Beyond Resort Kata, Kata Beach, Phuket.

About the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta – Asia’s legendary yacht race under Royal Patronage
Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the event has been held during the first week of December. Under Royal Patronage, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is organized by the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Action-Packed Winter Break at Phuket Marriott Resort

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Action-Packed Winter Break at Phuket Marriott Resort - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, December 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach is gearing up for an action-packed winter break with a full calendar of fun-filled guest experiences, exciting culinary events and sparkling parties this December.

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The holiday season is a fantastic time for families and the celebrations start with an activity for all ages: “Gingerbread House Heaven”. From 21st – 25th December 2022 (1pm – 4pm), young guests can feel the holiday spirit with a gingerbread house making class at The Andaman Kitchen. Parents and kids can decorate their sweet creation with icing, candies or chocolate, and then have it boxed up and delivered to their room. The Gingerbread House Heaven is priced at Bt800++ per set.

On 24th December (6.30pm – 11pm), families and couples can elevate their Christmas Eve with a “Blissful Beachfront Christmas Eve” at Big Fish Restaurant. Indulge in a sumptuous buffet dinner including an eggnog upon arrival, an array of festive favourites, plus a BBQ station, kids’ corner and more. Carol singing, a fire show and live band will set the mood for the evening. This event is priced at Bt1,899++ per adult and 50% discount for children aged 7 – 12 years old.

For guests seeking a more personal and private celebration, the resort’s “Christmas Delivered to Your Door” service offers a full festive feast served in the comfort of their room, suite or villa. Available on 24th & 25th December, this exquisite in-room dining experience includes a succulent half of US Butterball turkey, sumptuous side dishes, delicious desserts and beautiful Christmas decorations for just Bt6,500++ per set (perfect for four people).

On Boxing Day (noon – 4pm at Big Fish Restaurant and 6pm – 10pm for in-room service), friends and families can come together for a “Luxurious Lunchtime Turkey Feast”. Choose from a selection of enticing à la carte dishes, including turkey stack with feta spread, Californian turkey club wrap, turkey pizza, and turkey cobb salad, accompanied by an ice cream station. Prices per dish start from Bt280++.

As the sun sets over the Andaman Sea for the final time in 2022, celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at Big Fish Restaurant with the “White Party New Year’s Eve Celebrations” (6.30pm – 1am), revellers can get dressed up in their most stylish white outfits and savour a lavish buffet featuring the finest and freshest ingredients from land and sea, including unlimited Canadian lobsters, hand-cut sushi, an oyster bar and more, plus plenty of sweet treats.

• Discover Phuket’s and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

This amazing evening will be accompanied by a live band, fire show, DJ and fireworks at midnight and is priced at Bt5,599++ per person for adult and 50% discount for children aged 7 – 12 years old, with an optional Bt3,000++ supplement for free-flow wines, house spirits, beers and cocktails.

For more information and reservations, call +66 (0) 7662 – 5555 or email: hktnb.restaurant@marriott.com

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SANDALS PREVIEWS NEW NEGRIL, ST. LUCIA EXPANSION

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With reservations for now open for rooms in newly expanded areas of Beaches Negril and Sandals Halcyon Beach, Sandals Resorts International has offered a preview of what guests can expect to see at the two resorts when the new sections open next April.

Located in Negril, Jamaica, and Castries, St. Lucia, respectively, the resort expansions mark the start of a slew of projects for the popular all-inclusive resort chain, including the opening of the highly anticipated Sandals Dunn’s River, in May 2023, as well as additional projects and new openings across Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, Curaçao, St. Vincent & The Grenadines and more.

“Our guest experience drives everything we do and these new suites are emblematic of our unrelenting move across the brands as we challenge ourselves to reimagine every facet of the business,” Sandals executive chairman Adam Stewart says of the April openings. “We wanted to go beyond traditional luxury and these new suites are stunners; it’s about design and amenities that make connecting with each other more comfortable and more fulfilling.”

Beaches Negril

Beaches Negril will add a total of 12 new and expansive butler suites, bringing its room count to 197 luxury accommodations. The new additions consist of six all-new Firesky Reserve Villas, nestled on the beach on the northern end of the resort and inspired by the destination’s captivating sunsets, with each offering an four bedrooms spanning three stories and an expansive 345 sq. m.

Well-appointed living areas, stylish kitchens, private oceanfront plunge pools and rooftop decks with dining terraces offer views of the Caribbean Sea, with Firesky Reserve Villas accommodating up to 10 guests – ideal for large families.

On the opposite end of the resort’s coastline and comprising six suites, the Eventide Penthouse Collection will give nod to the calm waters and the minimal change in tides along the beach – ranging from three to four bedrooms each and accommodating up to 18 with access to a rooftop terrace. Spacious kitchens and living areas indoors give way to large balconies and walkout terraces.

Further complementing Beaches Negril’s existing 10 gourmet restaurants, Pirates Island Waterpark, and other amenities, an entirely new building will house the resort’s Camp Sesame – designed around the brand’s unique partnership with Sesame Workshop and also debuting ahead peak summer season.

Firesky Reserve Villa

Halcyon Beach

Privy to some of St. Lucia’s calmest and brightest blue seas, Sandals Halcyon capitalizes on its magical setting with the addition of

Meanwhile, in St. Lucia, 25 new butler accommodations will include 20 Joli Beachfront Suites built right on the edge of the shore, offering a combination of suites with walkout beach access and private pools, as well as second-storey accommodations with balconies featuring Tranquility Soaking Tubs. Offering an open-air layout, suite interiors are outfitted in natural woods, hues of blues, and soft island floral touches, with king-sized beds positioned to take in direct sea views from sunrise to sunset.

Celebrating the fruit’s abundance on the island and with a nod to the thatched roof, five new Koko Rondoval Villas will be intertwined among the resort’s lush landscaping, just steps from the sea. The Rondovals, a first for Sandals Halcyon but with its rounded walls and thatched roof considered one of the brand’s most forward-thinking designs, will focus on bringing the outside in with windows that span nearly the entire wall, giving the illusion that the villa extends onto the posh private patio complete with a plunge pool.

The expansion will bring the total number of rooms and suites to 194 modern-meets-quintessentially Caribbean accommodations, complementing the resort’s lush pathways, six gourmet restaurants, a bevy of watersports, access to golf, as well as an additional 21 eateries at the two nearby Sandals resorts in St. Lucia.

Koko Rondoval Villa, Halcyon Beach

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News