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W Hotels Infuses a New Wave of Energy Into Canada’s Biggest City With the Opening of W Toronto

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W Toronto - Living Room
W Toronto Living Room

Sound on. W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of W Toronto. Rising 11 stories in the vibrant, creatively charged neighborhood of Yorkville, the hotel is a celebration of Toronto’s storied art scene, diversity of culture, and legacy of non-conformity. Destined to bring a new energy and sophistication to the city’s luxury lifestyle hospitality scene, W Toronto gives locals a new playground and travelers an authentic, socially charged retreat.

“From its street art scene and ongoing musical legacy, Toronto is a natural fit for W Hotels,” says Benoit Racle, Vice President, Brand Management, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our unassuming, playful interpretation of luxury is poised to make W Toronto a regular stop for those living and working in Toronto as well as the perfect place for an out-of-town guest to revel in the city like a local.”

A Culture Clash of Design
Designed by global creative agency Sid Lee, W Toronto is a juxtaposition of the city’s biophilia, man-made city grid and brutalist architecture. The contrast begins with the exterior, where the brutalist façade has been transformed through warm, LED lighting that illuminates the night sky, including a glowing, opaque orange lift to take guests to the rooftop bar and restaurant. The journey begins on the 6th Floor, where the Welcome Desk and Living Room (the W brand’s signature lobby/lounge) drips in jewel tones of ruby, amethyst, and topaz – with curved lines and velvet furniture reminiscent of Toronto’s late 60s and early 70s counterculture movement. Other highlights of the 5,000 square foot space include a communal “fire” pit, a circular destination bar featuring cascading amber lighting, and access to The Yard, an outdoor terrace surrounded by a three-story atrium of guest room windows – creating a voyeuristic tension between public and private.

W Toronto features 254 guest rooms – including 30 suites – two of which are Extreme Wow (Presidential) Suites. Drawing inspiration from Toronto’s illustrious theater district, guest room beds are flanked by stage-inspired pendant lights and situated in front of a sapphire velvet curtain that can be automatically drawn open or shut. Design touches include curved banquettes, dressing-room style vanity mirrors, “record-like” tables in honor of Toronto’s musical legacy and nods to nature, like the abstract floral wallpaper and mushroom-shaped accent lights. As a playful wink to personal artistic interpretation, Double Queen Rooms are adorned with wall art that reads “Not everything has to mean something. Some things just are.” by Canadian writer and musician Charles de Lint.

Art + Soul: The Art Collection and Sound Suite of W Toronto
Music and creative artistry take centerstage at W Toronto, boasting Canada’s first W Sound Suite, the brand’s signature recording studio experience. Situated off the Living Room, behind a nondescript, one-way, tinted window, W Toronto’s W Sound Suite is outfitted with professional equipment where accomplished and novice musicians, podcasters, and other creatives can draw inspiration from the city and hotel scene.

From the psychedelic rock of the 60s and the hip hop of today, to the street art of Graffiti Alley, Toronto is known for its multidisciplinary artistic legacy. W Toronto honors and adds to this cannon with a collection of original work beginning with the W Monument on Bloor Street. Created by Sid Lee, it reflects biophilia and hippie culture through the use of natural crystal rock patterns and the bold palette of psychedelia. The journey continues with three murals by Dutch-born artist Mikael B. At the driveway is “Below The Surface,” a mesmerizing interpretation of undersea volcanic eruptions; “Hidden Gem” – located at Lift Level G – inspired by Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollock and Peter Saul with an array of colors and geometric shapes; and “Clear Vision,” an abstract experimentation of color in the meeting and event space.

Coffee. Cocktail. Cuisine Scene.
Leading the creative culinary charge at W Toronto is Executive Chef Keith Pears, who is well-known to culinary enthusiasts. His enviable resume – B.C. Chef of the Year, Gold Metal Plates, Bocuse d’Or National Selection, and appearing on Chopped Canada – brings star quality to W Toronto’s three distinct beverage and food venues, taking guests on a progressive journey from morning to late night. It begins with PUBLIC SCHOOL, the rebellious, ground floor coffee house, kitchen and bar driven by barista culture by day and new school tonics, elixirs and low or no alcohol beverages by night. The playful, unpretentious, plant-forward menu is served across two sweeping levels, accentuated by inviting, late 60s/early 70s seating in a palette of soothing earth tones as well as “Toronto Gush,” an original mural by Costa Rican-born artist Alan Ganev, inspired by Toronto’s Graffiti Alley.

Ideal for a solo coffee, casual working lunch, after-work cocktail or late-night revelry, the Living Room pays homage to Toronto’s standing as the most multicultural city in the world. Featuring “Toronto Tapas” – light, shareable bites representing the city’s diverse neighborhoods – the menu includes: Barbacoa Tacos (Kensington Market); Jerk Chicken Skewers (Little Jamaica); and Fogo Island Cod Cheeks (Little India). “Sparkling” is the theme of the Living Room beverage program, with Champagne, rare bottles and a Perlini corking system allowing for unique flight experiences, bubbly by the glass as well as sparkling cocktails, such as the Celery Sour and the Green Goddess Bloody Mary.

As the sun sets, SKYLIGHT, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, casts a spell on the city’s late-night scene with alluring curated cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The indoor-outdoor boho oasis overlooks Toronto’s iconic Bloor Street, celebrating the provocative and artistic spirit of the 60s Yorkville hippie revolution. In addition to the bazaar-inspired main room – with its nightly DJ booth and performance stage – SKYLIGHT features The Loft (for semi-private events); The Den (an intimate seating, people-watching nook); and The Terrace (with birdcage-style seating). The menu includes familial-style mezze, salatas, and freshly made maneesh served with tagines as well as an over-the-top Seafood Tower with oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail, escabeche, tuna and scallop crudos, king crab legs, lobster, and caviar. SKYLIGHT’s cocktail program is Vermouth and Amaro-centric with a selection of upscale curated cocktails, seasonal spritzes, and adult slushes.

Business is a Pleasure
With five event spaces encompassing 4,679 square feet, W Toronto is the ideal location for conducting business or celebrating a milestone. Industry, at 1,980 square feet, features botanical-inspired wallpaper decorated with elliptical lighting, reminiscent of floral seedlings, and can be divided into three intimate spaces. Studios 1 and 2, off the Living Room, as well as Strategy 1 and 2, offer more casual working session settings. Prior to that big presentation or wedding day, W Toronto’s 3,300 square foot FIT gym is the perfect place for guests to focus and recharge.

“W Toronto is a microcosm of the people, culture, and history of this incredible city,” says Craig Reaume, General Manager, W Toronto. “From the intentional design of each guest room and the authentically diverse menus to the music and vibe of each public space, W Toronto offers a long overdue alternative to the luxury hotel scene. We cannot wait to welcome guests time and again.”

About W Hotels Worldwide
Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has redefined hospitality for over two decades, breaking the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With nearly 60 hotels around the globe, the detail-driven design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing, signature Living Rooms create an experience that is often imitated but never matched. Dynamic and invigorating, the brand celebrates each traveler’s desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly W. For more information on W Hotels, visit www.whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments™ and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences, including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, visit www.mobile-app.marriott.com. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media Contact
Derek Kokinda
Manager, Global Communications, Luxury Brands
Marriott International
Derek.Kokinda@marriottluxurybrands.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

VERBAL ABUSE AND PHYSICAL THREATS: Airline workers face increased passenger frustration

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From verbal abuse to physical threats to police calls, front-line workers in the airline industry are finding themselves on the receiving end of frustrated passengers encountering flight delays and lost baggage.

“I’ve had customers poke me in the chest and say, ‘You’re not going to get me off of this flight,”’ said Cheryl Robinson, an Air Canada customer service agent at the Halifax airport.

“I’ve seen my colleagues in tears, walking away because they just can’t deal with another person yelling at them today.”

“It shakes you,” said Robinson, who’s worked at the airport for more than 24 years. “This is probably the worst I’ve ever seen.”

The frayed nerves and exploding tempers are the outcome of an ongoing struggle by airports and carriers to cope with the massive travel rebound.

Fuelled by last month’s lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, the resurgence uncorked two years of pent-up demand on a sector sagging under staffing shortages and bottlenecked airports across the globe.

Toronto’s Pearson International Airport and Air Canada have topped global lists for share of flights delayed over the past month, frequently surpassing 50 percent and fanning travellers’ ire.

“We can all understand why they’re angry and frustrated. Your flight gets cancelled and they tell you to call and you wait on hold for six hours – and I’m not exaggerating,” said Leslie Dias, director of airlines at Unifor, which represents 16,000 air transport workers, including 5,600 customer service and sales agents at Air Canada.

“To some extent, our people are broken,” she said from Calgary, where she is in negotiations with WestJet over a deal for more than 700 baggage and customer service agents.

“They’re upset, they’re often close to tears, they’re exhausted. At all airlines they’re being asked to work as many hours as they can possibly manage to work. And they feel helpless.”

Dias added that police officers are being called to airport gates daily because workers are being yelled at.

The fallout from the “sinkhole of a mess” deters new recruits and drags down retention rates, she said.

The workers in Calgary and Vancouver bargaining for their first collective agreement with WestJet start at $15.55 an hour, topping out at $23.87 an hour after seven years, she said.

On Wednesday, those workers voted 98 percent in support of a strike if they cannot reach an agreement with the airline, and could walk off the job as early as July 27, Unifor said. (See following story).

At Air Canada, the payroll is at 93 per cent of 2019 levels, while its summer flight schedule is below 80 percent of pre-pandemic volumes.

“We continue to recruit for certain jobs and have and continue to refine elements of our compensation packages to remain competitive in the current environment,” the company said in an email.

“Employees are professionals and they make every effort to manage challenging situations effectively in their respective environments. The overwhelming majority of passengers are respectful. That said, Air Canada has a zero-tolerance approach toward any kind of aggression in our business, especially towards our employees.”

Flight attendants and customs officers face their own passenger challenges as well.

“It’s like a nine-to-five job that’s now turned into a seven-day-a-week job with no fixed hours,” said Wesley Lesosky, who heads the Canadian Union for Public Employees’ airline division, which represents about 15,500 workers.

“If you have kids, if you have a family, a partner, a dog, cats … everything’s kind of up in the air.”

Frustration from long security queues, missed connecting flights, misplaced luggage and hours on tarmacs has pushed emotions to a “boiling point … resulting in increased reports of harassment and abuse – physical and verbal,” said Crystal Hill, president of CUPE 4070, which represents some 4,000 WestJet flight attendants.

“This is very scary when you’re 40,000 feet above ground.”

Border security agents also face exasperation from passengers, at least 30 percent of whom show up at land and air checkpoints without having completed their ArriveCan app, said Mark Weber, president of the Customs and Immigration Union.

“We’re seeing an uptick in verbal abuse. In many cases they’re waiting in line two, three hours to get to us. We completely get why they’re frustrated,” he said.

The increase in automated kiosks to process international arrivals at some airports has not made up for staff cuts that helped reduce customs agents at Pearson airport to the current 300 from 600 in 2017, he added.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MILLENNIALS ON THE MAP: Where they’re going and how they spend

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A new study by PayPal Canada on millennial travel says the roughly 26 to 40-year-old cohort in this country are likely to splurge on their next vacation, though inflation is definitely affecting their plans.

According to the “Millennials on the Map’ survey, 82% of those surveyed say inflation will impact their dream getaway this year with 16% ranking budget management as their top travel finance concern – even more than changing plans due to COVID-19 (13%).

And despite travel restrictions lifting around the world, Canadian millennials are staying close to home as they map out their travel plans this year. A majority of respondents (97%) plan to travel within North America this year and 25% prefer to explore locally in Canada.

Yet, 43% are checking off destinations on their personal bucket lists crafted by their own research to experience “the greatest trip of all times,” or a G.O.A.T trip.

Unpacking Canadian millennials’ travel trends:

Exploring their own backyard: There’s no place like home, which rings true in the millennial travel guide. In Canada, the top provinces they’re planning to explore are Ontario (35%), British Columbia (27%) and Alberta (25%). Other top destinations include Australia (12%), Bahamas (11%), England (11%) and France (11%).

Doubling down on discounts: 85% of these eager nomads say sales and discount codes are important when it comes to booking experiences or buying essentials for a getaway.

Mapping out the journey: Part-time travel agent, full-time millennial – this generation is focusing on designing the ultimate tour for themselves with nearly six in 10 (58%) preferring unique or bespoke trips and experiences.

Sustainable sight-seeing: Over half (52%) of Canadian millennials who responded consider greener options when booking travel, shopping while on vacation, or in the experiences they book for their upcoming adventures.

Group travel gone digital: Four in 10 millennials (42%) prefer to use digital money transfer apps to split bills when travelling.

Banking priceless souvenirs: How are Canadians spending their time once they’ve reached their final destination? The answer to that has a range as big as the Rockies.

– 40% of Canadian millennials surveyed say they’ve made a life-long friend or met a significant other while travelling
– 27% witnessed a one-of-a-kind experience in nature (i.e. Aurora Borealis, bird migration)
– 26% participated in a local, annual cultural celebration (i.e. Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo, Oktoberfest)
– 20% ran into someone they lost touch with and reconnected
– 18% injured themselves having too much fun (i.e. broke a bone, got stitches)
– 16% fell in love with the destination and moved there permanently

Another important tip notes Malini Mitra of PayPal Canada is that “Between checking flight prices and scrolling through accommodations, booking travel can take hours, which is why it’s no surprise that 34% of millennials surveyed are more likely to buy experiences when their payment information is filled automatically.”

The “Millennials on the Map’ survey was commissioned by PayPal and conducted online by Pollfish. It interviewed 1,500 nationally representative Canadian millennial respondents in May.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: G Adventures unveils new custom catamaran

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Citing increased demand for upgraded vessel options, G Adventures has added its first custom-built catamaran to its fleet of vessels in the Galapagos this summer. The new Reina Silvia Voyager is designed to provide enhanced accommodation options with 10 spacious cabins split over two decks, including two dedicated solo cabins, making her one of the most comfortable vessels in her class sailing the archipelago.

Yves Marceau, global VP of product at G Adventures, says the addition of the Reina Silvia Voyager to the fleet enables G Adventures to cater to the rise in travellers seeking both bigger adventures and more activity during their holiday time.

“The pandemic has made travellers rethink how we holiday and we’re seeing high demand for once-in-a-lifetime adventures as travellers commit to booking trips they’ve long dreamt about. The Galapagos has ranked consistently among our top destinations as people continue to be drawn to the diverse wildlife, biodiversity, and remote landscapes of the Islands.”

He adds, “We’re also seeing a rise in travellers seeking solo cabin options, driven by there being more people travelling on their own, as well as those wanting their own personal space following the pandemic. The Reina Silvia Voyager is our first vessel to feature dedicated solo cabins, offering a much more affordable option for those wanting to room solo.”

Cabin

Running across the central, east, and west islands, the 31-m. Reina Silvia Voyager offers four itineraries, ranging from eight to 10 days, including Quito, and will accommodate up to 16 passengers. Eight cabins accommodate twin or double stays, with two solo cabins catering to individual travellers. Eight rooms offer private balconies, while all rooms have panoramic windows for optimal ocean viewing, private bathrooms, bright, contemporary furnishings, artwork by local naturalist photographers and energy-saving LED lighting.

Common areas on board include an expansive third deck with lounge chairs for sunbathing, a covered cocktail bar, grill station and outdoor jacuzzi for relaxing under the sun or stars. An indoor, air-conditioned salon with a large video screen enables visual presentations from the trained naturalists who will guide each group’s tour, and help guests learn about the iconic wildlife and culture of the Galápagos Islands’ inhabitants.

Landings and exploration of the region’s remote ports and wild, rocky coasts will also be accessible to guests, thanks to the Reina Silvia Voyager’s eight on-board kayaks and two zodiacs for guests’ guided use. A crew of 10, including a dedicated chef and G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO), will serve guests daily.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism Sector in China to Create 30 million Jobs over Next Decade

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Tourism Sector in China to Create 30 million Jobs over Next Decade - TRAVELINDEXBeijing, China, July 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Travel and Tourism sector in China is expected to create more than 30 million jobs over the next decade, representing a quarter of all new jobs globally. The forecast from WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR) shows the sector will reach more than 107 million employed within the sector by 2032.

According to the global Tourism body’s latest data, Travel & Tourism’s GDP is expected to grow at an average of 9.7% over the next 10 years, more than twice the 4.4% growth rate of the national overall economy, making it one of the fastest growing countries.

This growth will boost the sector to reach more than ¥25.2 trillion (13.7% of the total economy) by 2032.

The report shows the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to China’s economy could also surpass pre-pandemic levels next year, when it is projected to rise almost 10% above 2019 levels.

By the end of 2023, the sector’s contribution to the national economy could reach more than ¥ 13 trillion, with a year-on-year growth of more than 32%.

Employment within the sector could also exceed pre-pandemic levels, creating more than 766,000 additional jobs, to reach more than 83 million by the end of 2023.

WTTC warns that this will only be achieved if China continues to facilitate both international and domestic travel.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Over the next decade, the outlook is incredibly positive.

“But in the short term, while much of the rest of the world and indeed the region is now open to travellers, travel to China remains off limits for many international travellers.

“Domestic travel has provided and will continue to provide some relief to China’s economy, but at the moment, international travel spending is very low and is critical for the Chinese overall economy.

“Although cutting the quarantine time for international travellers is a step in the right direction, it’s not enough to have any real positive impact.”

In 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak, international visitor spending in China reached nearly ¥951 billion (14% of total internal spending). However last year, as China kept its borders closed, the total spend was less than ¥91 billion (3%), missing out on nearly ¥862 billion every year.

Before the pandemic, China’s Travel & Tourism total contribution to GDP was 11.6% (more than ¥11.9 trillion) in 2019, falling just to 4.3% (nearly ¥4.5 trillion) in 2020, representing a staggering 62.5% loss.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kamalaya Samui Announces Bespoke Retreats to Feel Life’s Potential

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Kamalaya Samui Announces Bespoke Retreats to Feel Life's Potential - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, July 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa is set to host a series of retreats scheduled to take place this autumn. Each retreat will be guided by distinct wellness professionals and has been developed collaboratively with retreat leaders who hold a deep appreciation for Kamalaya’s philosophy of holistic wellness, combining life-enriching insights with bespoke therapies.

While the focus at the legendary wellness retreat is on personalised wellness, Kamalaya retreats are intimate, limited to a maximum of 12 participants, and led by internationally renowned practitioners. Each retreat offers the perfect setting in nature where guests can explore particular topics in greater depth and benefit from the support network of a group of like-minded individuals.

The two group retreats are ideal for guests seeking personalised support and expert guidance within a nurturing setting. Dates have been announced for two group retreats in September and October:

• Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom 1 – 7 September 2022 (6 nights/7 days)
• Yin & Yang Yoga Immersion 6 – 10 October 2022 (4 nights/5 days)

‘There is a special energy that arises out of doing something with others and this dynamic life force will be harnessed through our series of retreats, each customised to enhance our guest’s wellbeing experience,’ said Karina Stewart, founder and Chief Wellness Officer of Kamalaya Koh Samui.

Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom, Group retreat with Kamalaya’s Life Enhancement Mentors
1-7 September 2022 (6 nights/7 days)

Kamalaya’s insightful Life Enhancement Mentors lead participants on an inward journey to let go of emotions and perceptions that are restrictive, unhelpful and damaging and instead towards cultivating expansive thinking and embracing positive habits that enrich the mind and body, with a particular focus on increasing emotional and perceptual flexibility

This Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom Retreat includes a combination of intimate group morning and afternoon sessions, group talks and meditation practices, as well as an individual 90-minute personal mentoring session to address specific goals and individual needs of each participant. Five holistic treatments are included to complement the retreat experience including Vital Essence Oil Massage, Traditional Asian Hand Massage, Traditional Asian Foot Massage, Indian Head Massage and Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage.

Kamalaya’s dedicated Life Enhancement Mentors Sujay Seshadri, Krishna Raj and Srinivas Bhat have all studied ancient Asian philosophies while immersed in monastic lifestyles in India for more than a decade each. Their distinctive teaching and mentoring styles have helped many people all over the world to accept and manage their emotions. Together Kamalaya’s Life Enhancement Mentors present this seven-day retreat as they guide participants along their path towards inner balance and freedom, facilitating personal insights and providing assistance in responding to change and facing life’s daily challenges.

Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom is a six-night/seven-day retreat with prices starting from 258,270 THB for double occupancy in a Hillside View room. This rate includes three meals a day, daily retreat sessions and treatments including Vital Essence Oil Massage, Traditional Asian Hand Massage, Traditional Asian Foot Massage, Indian Head Massage and Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage.

Yin & Yang Yoga Immersion, Group retreat with Simon Low
6-10 October 2022 (4 nights/5 days)

World leading Yin and Yang Yoga expert, consultant and teacher, Simon Low hosts this immersive retreat, imparting the principles of Yin and Yang yoga through theory and practice. Suitable for all levels, participants are supported in their yoga journey and inspired to cultivate a deeper connection to the self.

The retreat includes three morning and afternoon sessions that each span 2.5 hours, allowing for individual attention and personal modifications in alignment and postures to further enhance your yoga experience. Three holistic Asian massage therapies are also included to nurture, restore and invigorate: Royal Ayurvedic Massage, Vital Essence Oil Massage and Traditional Thai Massage.

A principal of the Yoga Academy and co-founder of London’s Triyoga, Simon Low’s unique yoga style integrates his studies in Qi Gong, psychology, pranayama and Taoism. His teaching style is based on the core principles of yoga, breath work and alignment.

Kamalaya’s Yin & Yang Yoga Immersion from 6 – 10 October 2022 is a four-night, five-day retreat with prices starting from 181,915 THB based on double occupancy in a Hillside View room and includes all meals, daily yoga sessions, one Royal Ayurvedic Massage, one Vital Essence Oil Massage and one Traditional Thai Massage, in addition to.

Participants experiencing a Kamalaya retreat are welcome to enjoy Kamalaya’s full program of complimentary daily holistic fitness activities and use of Kamalaya’s leisure facilities, including swimming pools, steam rooms and fitness centre. They also receive a 20 percent discount on additional wellness treatments.

With expansive outdoor space, open-air dining, lush tropical vegetation, cascading streams, 250 meters of private beach and a cave once used by Buddhist monks as a place of meditative retreat, Kamalaya’s setting is an integral part of each guest’s experience. Since opening as a health sanctuary in 2005, Kamalaya has offered enriching wellness programmes that combine healing therapies from East and West making it one of the world’s top destinations for everyone seeking to improve health and wellbeing.

For further information about Kamalaya and these retreats, please visit: kamalaya.com

• Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom group retreat is from 1 – 7 September 2022 (6 nights/7 days) with prices starting from THB 142,635 for single occupancy and THB 258,270 for double occupancy in a Hillside View room.
• Yin & Yang Yoga Immersion group retreat is from 6 – 10 October 2022 (4 nights/5 days) with prices starting from THB 99,958 for single occupancy or THB 181,915 for double occupancy in a Hillside View room.
• Prices include three meals per person, beverages, and outlined treatments.
• For direct bookings, please call +66 (0) 77 429 800

About Kamalaya
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa is a multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary located on the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. Founded by John and Karina Stewart in 2005, Kamalaya offers a synergistic wellness experience that helps people reconnect to life’s potential and achieve optimal wellbeing, while integrating healing therapies from East and West, including customized programmes that approach Detoxification, Relax and Renew, Enriched Gut, Sleep Enhancement, Yoga Synergy, Embracing Change, and Resilience & Immunity.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Hosts THE EXCHANGE Customer Conference in New York City

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Anthony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International, and Stephanie Mehta, CEO and Chief Content Officer, Mansueto Ventures
Anthony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International, and Stephanie Mehta, CEO and Chief Content Officer, Mansueto Ventures

Marriott International’s annual association and corporate customer conference, THE EXCHANGE, marked an optimistic milestone for the return of in-person meetings and events, one of the hardest hit segments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Held from July 13 -16, 2022, in the heart of New York City’s Times Square at the recently renovated New York Marriott Marquis, THE EXCHANGE brought together (approximately) 1,072 customers, hoteliers and industry leaders to engage and rally around new approaches to doing business; discuss topics of importance to today’s customers such as sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, technology innovation, and the state of the industry; and reinforce the importance and value of in-person connections and coming together again.

THE EXCHANGE offered ample opportunity for customers to rejuvenate connections with hotel leaders and sales professionals, showcasing property openings, renovations and updates that have happened over the last two years across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands in the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean. Customers also participated in New York City hotel immersion experiences designed to highlight the unique moments that pay tribute to various brands within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. These included holistic well-being sessions at the Lily Kwong-designed JW Garden at JW Marriott Essex House New York, complete with an immersion into the installation and a lesson on the mindfulness benefits of handwritten notes of gratitude that Marriott founder J. Willard Marriott knew so well; “Au Soleil Rose cocktail hour” on the hotel rooftop overlooking Central Park at Le Meridien New York, Central Park, inclusive of classic games, rosé and petit plates; and the opportunity to take part in a rich celebration of St. Regis history with a Champagne sabering and afternoon tea at The St. Regis New York.

Anthony Capuano, Marriott International’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “We consistently hear from our association and corporate clients how important face-to-face connections are to doing business – and how difficult those connections are to replicate virtually. The collaboration, innovation, and energy our customers and hoteliers experienced at this year’s EXCHANGE, while addressing some of today’s most important issues for meeting planners, was as inspiring as it was productive. Working together, we are continuing to refine and shape what tomorrow’s meetings and events will look like.”

The three-day event showcased Marriott’s innovative approaches to food and beverage, event design, and how to quickly implement various levels of well-being protocols into face-to-face environments. This year’s event also introduced short, 18-minute EXCHANGE TALKS designed to educate, inform, and inspire. Marriott speakers included Anthony Capuano, Chief Executive Officer; Liam Brown, Group President, U.S. & Canada; Erika Alexander, Chief Global Officer, Global Operations; Drew Pinto, Global Officer, Global Sales, Distribution and Revenue Management; Julius Robinson, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, U.S. & Canada; Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales Organization; Denise Naguib, Vice President, Sustainability and Supplier Diversity; and Brian Gilligan, Senior Vice President Sales & Distribution, U.S. & Canada.

Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales Organization, said, “We are passionate about providing resources, creative solutions and innovative practices to help meeting professionals navigate a successful return to in-person meetings and events. The meetings and events industry is resilient, and this was a large-scale demonstration of the inventive solutions and experiences that can come from being together. With well-being remaining front and center, THE EXCHANGE marked a pivotal moment for the industry – and we’re optimistic for what’s ahead.”

“Marriott works with me to understand my needs when it comes to planning an event, with direct access to senior leaders and property management to help determine how to pivot if needed,” said Pamela Prince-Easton, President & CEO of Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. “It’s my job to ensure the decisions we make will benefit our attendees and, over the last few years, Marriott has been by our side every step of the way to revise and adjust where necessary. For us, It’s imperative that we partner with a company that listens to the challenges we face and provide detail-oriented solutions.”

Marriott customers can continue to leverage best practices and resources through Marriott Bonvoy® Events, which provides solutions aimed at educating and empowering meetings professionals to host successful meetings in today’s environment.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 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 www.marriott.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact
Kimberly Mannino
Kimberly.A.Mannino@marriott.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fusion Launches New Wellness Retreats in Vietnam

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Fusion Launches New Wellness Retreats in Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXHue, Vietnam, July 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion has long attracted wellness-seekers. With healing hot springs coursing through the forested property, the land itself is a wonder all its own. Now Fusion is enhancing the wonder with an array of new retreat options, from Reiki to Acroyoga.

In partnership with Vietnam Detox, Alba is offering several five-day Hot Springs Detox Retreats from now to the end of 2022. The immersive experience balances movement, from nature walks to yoga; and rest and relaxation, such as massage, Tibetan Sound Bowl sessions, onsen and forest bathing; with detox methods to cleanse and revitalize body and mind.

From August 3rd – 6th the resort will offer its first Reiki and Acupuncture retreat with the founder of Siam Reiki. Alba and Siam Reiki’s founder are joining forces to start a Reiki school in Vietnam, offering certification in the energy healing modality that first originated in Japan. Both practices will help participants remove physical, mental, emotional and spiritual energy blockages in order to feel more balanced, relaxed and centered.

An Acroyoga retreat, a modern variation of the ancient Indian practice that brings together traditional yoga poses with acrobatics and Thai massage, is also on the agenda; as well as comprehensive half day detox programs that are available to both in-house and outside guests. The morning sessions include detox juices, yoga, a water purification ceremony and hot spring meditation.

“Fusion has always prioritized the wellness of our guests, with some of the biggest hotel spas throughout Vietnam,” said Kevin Beauvais, CEO of Fusion. “As we’ve grown as a company we continue to expand what we offer to guests, as people look for more ways to unwind and reset, especially as we come out of the pandemic.”

While most Fusion properties offer yoga, each property takes it a step further by making the most of their picturesque destinations when offering sessions. At Maia Resort Quy Nhon, guests can join a complimentary yoga and meditation class at sunrise or sunset on the powder-white sands of Starfish beach or in the lush tropical gardens of the resort’s expansive Vẽla Spa. Aqua Aerobics is also on offer in the spa’s pool.

Fusion Resort Cam Ranh has launched new Saturday yoga sessions, with four different-themed classes including a yoga and qigong session to start the day and a rest and restore yoga session that blends yoga and mindfulness practices to end it. Fusion Resort Phu Quoc, also fills its days with wellness with yoga and meditation classes for adults and sports activities for kids including tennis, biking, jogging, and volleyball. The oceanfront and riverside resort also offers kayaking. Properties like Fusion Suites Vung Tau, located in a popular weekend getaway destination, are encouraging guests to explore this summer with bike discovery tours, to take in the city, and stand up paddleboarding sessions, to take in the vast ocean (whilst getting some exercise).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hotel M’s in Kyoto to Drive Inbound Tourism with Sabre

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Hotel M's in Kyoto to Drive Inbound Tourism with Sabre - TRAVELINDEXKyoto, Japan, July 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation announced a new agreement with Hotel M’s Co. Ltd in Kyoto, Japan, to help the chain to grow geographic reach and attract international travellers as Japan eases border restrictions.

Japan has been steadily relaxing travel restrictions since March ahead of a wider-scale re-opening to foreign visitors. To prepare for, and capture, the expected influx of tourism, Hotel M’s Co. Ltd has inked a new technology agreement with Sabre. The deal will enable the chain to put its inventory in front of hundreds of thousands of travel agents globally across all major Global Distribution Systems (GDSs) through Sabre Hospitality’s innovative SynXis platform.

“We want more people to know about Kyoto and to love the city as much as we do, and we want all of our guests to come back again and again,” said Kohei Otsuki, President for Hotel M’s Co. Ltd. “Our philosophy when it comes to true hospitality is to look outside of services that are traditionally thought of as within the bounds of the hotel. We think about the entire city as a hotel. So, it’s vital to us to have a technology partner who will enable us to expand our geographic reach while sharing a forward-thinking vision of hospitality retailing that goes beyond the hotel room.”

Just as Sabre has advanced its technological transformation during the pandemic, Hotel M’s has taken time to rethink its own growth strategy. Established in 2014, the chain has 16 hotels across Kyoto city, opening one close to Kyoto Station during the pandemic in anticipation of future inbound tourists. With 1,274 hotel rooms currently, the chain has selected Sabre technology to help advance its expansion strategy and revenue growth.

“Our Sabre recovery data clearly shows that as soon as borders re-open and markets open up, there’s an influx of inbound and outbound tourism, so we expect that as soon as it is possible to travel to Japan, there will be a huge demand to do so,” said Frank Trampert, Senior Vice President and Global Managing Director of Community Sales for Sabre Hospitality. “It’s essential hoteliers have the right technological tools to put their offers in front of global markets, and we’re very excited to be working with Hotel M’s to enable them to capture and create future travel demand at this key moment for Japanese tourism.”

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

About Hotel M’s
Hotel M’s was established in Kyoto in 2014, making use of the design and design capabilities cultivated as the parent design office. We operate 16 hotels and 1274 rooms in Kyoto city, which are particular about the design of details.

A hotel full of luxury and playfulness with the theme of “fusion of design and comfort” in a convenient location within walking distance from the station. We provide high-quality Kyoto-like hospitality to customers all over the world.

As a hotel born and raised in Kyoto, we value regional connections and are working to revitalize the entire city of Kyoto.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Legendary Expeditions Helicopter is Back for Private Adventures

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Legendary Expeditions Helicopter is Back for Private Adventures - TRAVELINDEXArusha, Tanzania, July 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / We’re thrilled to announce that the Legendary helicopter is back, once again providing guests with the opportunity to indulge in exhilarating aerial adventures. Now operating out of Arusha, our home base allows the freedom to offer an even wider range of flight options: from scenic transfers and breath-taking excursions to full-blown journeys. The sky is the limit.

A private helicopter trip is truly a legendary experience and promises to be a highlight of any itinerary. Our expert pilots, high performance H125 helicopter and incredible landscapes provide more than enough reason to explore the endless horizon. Choose from any of our unforgettable adventures to leave guests truly inspired.

SCENIC TRANSFERS
Upgrade your standard fixed wing transfer from a Legendary Expeditions or Chem Chem Safaris property to a thrilling, private helicopter flight to your next destination.

SCENIC EXCURSIONS
Include a scenic helicopter excursion as an additional safari experience, exploring the unspoiled wilderness from above and discovering otherwise unreachable destinations.

FULL JOURNEYS
For the ultimate all-encompassing expedition, our helicopter is available to be exclusively reserved for the entirety of your East African safari circuit.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News