Global Travel News

F1 in Schools Thailand Stages Announce the Upcoming National Finals

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F1 in Schools Thailand Stages Announce the Upcoming National Finals - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 22, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / F1 in Schools Thailand, led by Dr. Chakraphad ‘John’ Pitakthararuay, CEO & President of 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. and Kaew Chakraphad Foundation, the official In-Country Delivery Partner of F1 in Schools, recently staged a press conference to announce the upcoming National Finals to be organised for the first time in Bangkok and in the 8-year history of F1 in Schools Thailand at True Digital Park from 27th – 29th September 2024.

This country-level competition, open to students aged 9 to 19, will field top local teams for the F1 in Schools World Finals 2025. Opening ceremony and a certificate presentation ceremony for approximately 150 F1 in Schools Thailand graduating students have been scheduled for 28th September promptly followed by rounds of competitions until 29th September.

“I’m truly excited about hosting the National Finals right here in Bangkok and I expect our Thai teams to continue earning accolades from the global finals,” said Dr. John. “F1 in Schools Thailand is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of discovery, learning, and growth for our students and especially for members of the teams participating in the F1 in Schools Global Finals.”

“We are committed to nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers, empowering them to realise their potential and make a meaningful impact on the world,” added Dr. John.

“About 20 teams or more, with the new teams of students from Chearavanont Uthit 2 School under Trueplookpanya, will be vying at the forthcoming 2024 Bangkok challenge,” said Mr. Robert “Bobby” Ortiz, In-Country Coordinator of F1 in Schools Thailand. “Our students are currently going through intensive training and coaching and designing their miniature compressed air powered cars made from F1 model block, supported by our hands-on and immersive approach, covering everything from practical activities to 3D design and manufacturing, ensuring a transformative experience like no other.”

As regards, the Aramco F1 in Schools World Finals 2024 which will be hosted for the first time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in November 2024, up to four teams from Thailand have confirmed to participate: Phayu Racing; Intanin Racing; Team Vega; and Agilas Team. Up to now, 22 countries from around the world host Formula One races. Aramco, headquartered in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, has been a longstanding supporter of F1 in Schools following the signing of the sponsorship agreement in 2020.

A total of 16 teams from Thailand has, since 2017, participated in the F1 in Schools World Finals and have been recipients of eight major awards including clinching “First Place in Knockout Seeding” by Kinnaree Racing Team in 2023.

In 2023 a total of 367 students from 33 nations competed in the Aramco F1 in Schools World Finals in Singapore, the biggest event of its kind ever held, and this record-breaking number reflect the ever-increasing global reach of the competition.

There are many success stories of F1 in Schools alumni who have gone on to achieve significant outcomes in their lives including positions in Formula 1 teams like Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, Mercedes AMG HPP and McLaren Formula 1 Team.

Mr Ortiz added that the F1 in Schools Thailand serves as a bridge between academia and industry, fostering collaboration between educational institutions, corporate partners, and government agencies. Through strategic partnerships such as with Cambridge-based Summatic, for the first time, any learner of any age will be able to access the F1 in Schools Thailand competition and academic programme, anywhere, at any time on any device. Learners will receive quality, personalised learning support through Summatic, and will complete the programme ready to compete on the track and in the exam room.

F1 in Schools as the Official Education Initiative of Formula 1 is a globally recognised STEM learning that inspires young minds, aged as little as five, to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology.

With its roots deeply embedded in Formula 1, the world’s most prestigious motor racing series, the F1 in Schools Thailand offers students a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of high-speed racing while honing their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) skills.

They learn the trade through workshops, mentorship programmes, and networking events to gain insights into the world of motor sport as well as forging connections that may shape their careers. Students can enrol for such workshops and training either face-to-face or online via F1 in Schools Thailand centres of excellence in Bangkok. A popular centre is at Knowledge Exchange Tower on Sathorn.
“Learners not only develop technical skills such as modelling (using CAD/CAM software), aerodynamics, and manufacturing but also cultivate essential soft skills like teamwork, communication, and leadership, “ explained Mr. Bobby.

F1 in Schools is a not-for-profit organisation established with committed partners to provide an educational experience through the magnetic appeal of Formula 1.

Founded in England 24 years ago, F1 in Schools has a presence in 60 nations around the world, spanning from Australia to China, Singapore, Kuwait, South Africa, the US, and Mexico.

The F1 in Schools is not merely an after-school education, but incorporating global multi-disciplinary challenge in which teams of students aged 9 to 19 deploy CAD/CAM software to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and then race miniature compressed air powered cars made from F1 model block.

“The competition also serves as an integral part of the education process and a platform that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork among students,” noted Mr Bobby.

“In order to accommodate the expanding number of students enrolling in our classes, compounded by the growing interest in F1 in Schools and its huge potential social impact in Thailand, we are adding more F1 in Schools Thailand centres of excellence within 2024,” added Mr. Bobby.

In conclusion, F1 in Schools Thailand plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of motorsport in the country and beyond, by epitomising the convergence of education, innovation, and motorsport excellence.

About 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. & Kaew Chakraphad Foundation
1 Action Education Co., Ltd., located in Bangkok, Thailand, is a premier education company dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence in education. As the Official Program Delivery Partner of F1 in Schools, the company is committed to providing students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on STEM-based learning experiences that ignite passion and drive future success.
Founded with a mission to transform education through dynamic and interactive programs, 1 Action Education Co., Ltd. leverages cutting-edge educational methodologies and resources to empower students across Thailand. Its role as the exclusive partner of F1 in Schools underscores its dedication to promoting STEM education and preparing students for the challenge of the future.
1 Action Education offers a comprehensive suite of educational programs and services designed to enhance learning and inspire creativity. By integrating real-world applications and collaborative projects, it helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that are essential for success in the 21st century.

About F1 in Schools
F1 in Schools is a not-for-profit social enterprise aiming to promote the learning of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects. The global competition allows students aged 9-19 to participate in a multidisciplinary challenge where they must use professional CAD (Computer Aided Design) software to design, analyse, manufacture, test, and race miniature air powered F1 cars. Many students have gone on to have fruitful careers with F1 teams, founded on their success in F1 in Schools.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SONIC BOOM. The Autobiography of the World’s Most Travelled Man

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Southeast Asia’s Biggest Sustainable Tourism Event Reveals Top-Level Speakers

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hong Kong Tourism Board and Intrepid DMC Nepal Named PATA Gold Award Winners

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels and Resorts Lands Major Hotel Deal on Batam Island

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Cross Hotels and Resorts Lands Major Hotel Deal on Batam Island - TRAVELINDEXBatam, Indonesia, July 19, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Expanding upon its renowned commitment to offer guests an extensive selection of diverse destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a major hotel management agreement with PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group) for Cross Batam Antapura, a 340-key tropical island paradise. Developed under the ‘Luxury by Design’ concept and set amid stunning natural beauty, the resort is scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2027.

Forging a new partnership with Puri Group, one of the bigger property developers on Batam Island, Indonesia, this is Cross Hotels & Resorts’ inaugural property on the booming island. Cross Batam Antapura is a hybrid resort, offering guests a choice of 250 contemporary hotel rooms and 90 luxury pool villas, all centered around a low-rise Water Courtyard. Seamlessly blending traditional Indonesian designs with modern refinement, the striking resort provides a serene setting that invokes personal wellbeing.

Located only 13 minutes from Hang Nadim International Airport, a short drive from the international ferry terminal and close to three international golf courses, Cross Batam Antapura is sure to appeal to holidaymakers, day-trippers and event planners alike. The integrated resort offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and excitement, from secluded retreats to exceptional dining experiences. Adults can relax with rejuvenating spa services while juniors are presented with a vibrant recreational and entertainment scene.

“It has been an honour working with Puri Group and to present our aspirational goal of being APAC’s hotel management operator of choice for owners seeking an innovative alternative to those offered by larger chains. While Cross Batam Antapura is our first resort on Batam Island, it becomes our eighth property in Indonesia. Batam Island is a gateway to the rest of the Indonesian archipelago and I am truly excited about our expansion across this beautiful land. Not only does Cross Batam Antapura encapsulate our Luxury by Design concept, but it also strengthens our sustainable architecture initiatives,” said Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

Cross Batam Antapura offers a range of gorgeous one- to three-bedroom pool villas, perfect for romantic escapes, family gatherings, and corporate events. World-class amenities include gourmet eateries, a swimming pool with a sunken bar, a spa complex, fitness centre, ballroom, wedding chapel, and ample parking. Cross Batam Antapura also boasts several sustainable architecture initiatives that transform its surroundings into a verdant oasis of eco-conscious living spaces.

Mr. Wagiman, President Director of PT Yetosa Pratama Sukses (Puri Group), said, “We were seeking a partner with an innovative alternative and a proven track record in the hospitality business. Cross Hotels & Resorts portfolio in Indonesia is growing so fast that we saw an opportunity to develop this luxury project together. Backed by one of the biggest travel companies in the world – Flight Centre Travel Group, we recognize the power of their global distribution. We believe that what we are creating with this partnership will be hugely successful.”

Batam Island presents travelers with picturesque landscapes, cultural vibrancy, and bustling urban vitality, all conveniently situated in a single locale. Whether you seek tranquil temple visits or breathtaking sunset vistas at Barelang Bridge, thrilling water sports, or leisurely beach days, this destination caters to every preference, promising an enriching experience for all who visit.

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes 28 hotels under six distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection and Kaura – across four countries, namely Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Named One of Asia’s 20 Best Hotels

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Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Named One of Asia's 20 Best Hotels - TRAVELNEWSHUBSofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the 123-year-old luxury hotel in Vietnam’s capital, was named one of Asia’s 20 best city hotels in Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual “World’s Best Awards”.

The prestigious recognition – one of the most coveted in the global hospitality industry – puts Metropole Hanoi in rarefied company, as one of only two hotels in Vietnam to make the list. More than 186,000 T+L readers cast votes in the 2024 survey for their favorite hotels, resorts, cities, cruise lines and more.

“This award from Travel + Leisure is particularly meaningful this year as we continue to celebrate the opening of a new chapter in our hotel’s storied history with the successful relaunch of our Heritage Wing following an extensive and inspired refurbishment,” Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi General Manager George Koumendakos said.

Earlier this year, the influential U.S.-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure also named Metropole Hanoi one of the “World’s 500 Best Hotels” and Forbes Travel Guide awarded the hotel a Five-Star rating, its top level of recognition, for a fifth consecutive year. TOP25Hotels.com also named Metropole Hanoi one of Vietnam’s top city hotels in 2024.

The Metropole Heritage Wing, with 103 guest rooms and suites, was meticulously restored and renovated under a 21-month construction project before reopening to guests in December. The new interiors maintain their traditional aesthetic and feel, and incorporate select original fixtures, while also introducing a considerable measure of bespoke comfort, advanced technology and vibrant color.

The comprehensive reconstruction work was centered on the original wing of the hotel, which was established in 1901 and has played host over the decades to numerous heads of state and royalty, along with world-renowned actors, writers, musicians and others.

The iconic luxury hotel also launched a new dining series earlier this year that brings together Metropole’s award-winning culinary team with some of the best chefs from around the world. The quarterly ‘Rendez-vous’ series, hosted in the hotel’s modern French fine-dining restaurant Le Beaulieu, spotlights Michelin-star guest chefs working in tandem with Le Beaulieu’s Chef de Cuisine Charles Degrendele to produce one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI
A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Hotel Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers such as playwrights, ambassadors and heads of state. The recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service, this legendary landmark has contributed to the richness of local heritage.

The hotel includes 358 rooms that are divided into two wings – the historical Heritage Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

The Metropole restaurants and bars are all famous dining venues, each offering a different exotic experience: Le Beaulieu has the best French fare in this corner of the world; Spice Garden offers elevated Vietnamese cuisine with a contemporary twist; angelina is Hanoi’s bespoke bar-lounge-restaurant; La Terrasse brings Parisian-style to the sidewalks of Hanoi; Le Club Bar treats guests to its famous afternoon high tea and cool jazz performances; and, finally, Bamboo Bar brings poolside lounging to the next level.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND
A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury, with a French zest. Alongside its 120 elegant and unique properties, the brand inaugurated in 2009 a collection of emblematic hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner: unrivalled luxury addresses with a legendary heritage and highly personalised service. Each stay is timeless, offering sumptuous surroundings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts for an inspiring luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels captivate with their architectural beauty, breathtaking views and mesmerizing ambience.

Sofitel Legend now comprises 6 hotels, each more magnificent than the last, set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations around the world: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Collaboration: Ferrandi-Paris Students Champion Sustainability with the SDG Game

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Global Collaboration: Ferrandi-Paris Students Champion Sustainability with the SDG Game - TRAVELNEWSHUBIn an inspiring demonstration of global partnership and innovation, Dusit Thani College , Ferrandi-Paris, and Assumption University Thailand came together to deliver a groundbreaking sustainability workshop. Embracing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals, this collaborative event empowered graduate students from Ferrandi-Paris to lead the charge in sustainable tourism while on a study trip in Thailand.

The workshop kicked off with The 2030 SDGs Game, a two hour experiential learning experience, where students work together to design the world they envision by investing time and resources in various projects. The game emphasizes the crucial balance between People, Planet, and Profit.

Through this interactive exercise, students experienced firsthand the potential of collective action to achieve both personal and global sustainability goals. Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Scott Smith remarked, “The 2030 SDGs Game yields different results every time. During this game, I witnessed how a group of like-minded individuals can collaboratively make a real difference and create the world they want to see in a short time. Their commitment to sustainability and creative solutions is truly inspiring.”

Following the game, the students delved into a case study authored by Dr. Smith and published in the prestigious Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Case Studies. The case study, titled Asian Oasis—Mythical Journeys in the Hill Tribe Villages of Northern Thailand, provided valuable insights into sustainable tourism practices in the region.

Throughout the workshop, students engaged in various activities, including lectures, group discussions, and hands-on projects. A notable highlight was their attendance at the 2024 Sustainability for Business Forum (SBF), organized by the Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce along with other chambers of commerce. This forum featured a series of inspirational presentations and discussions designed to empower businesses with innovative strategies for economic, environmental, and social performance.

Student Presentations Showcase Practical Sustainability Initiatives

The week-long workshop culminated in student presentations where participants showcased their learning and innovative ideas. Mr. Tchaï Gohier-Malavasi and Mr. Auguste de Seyssel presented an analysis of the economic, environmental, and socio-cultural impacts of the electric scooter ride-share system for the Dusit Thani College community. Miss Lilou Juliat and Miss Agathe Dubus proposed a rooftop garden for their Paris campus, aimed at supplying fresh produce to Mr. Vincent Detelder and Mr. Antoine Matteodo’s sustainable project, The Ferran’Green, a plant-based restaurant on campus.

About Ferrandi-Paris
Founded in 1920 by the Paris Chamber of Commerce, Ferrandi Paris is renowned for its excellence in culinary and hospitality management education. The institution offers a diverse range of programs from vocational training to Master’s degrees, focusing on hands-on practice and professional immersion.

About Dusit Thani College
Established in 1993, Dusit Thani College is Thailand’s premier institution for hospitality and culinary arts education. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in hospitality management and culinary arts in collaboration with prestigious institutions such as Le Cordon Bleu and Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne.

About Assumption University
Assumption University of Thailand is a private Catholic university known for its academic excellence and commitment to nurturing ethical leaders. Offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the university emphasizes holistic education and global perspectives, preparing students to excel in their chosen fields. The AU Central Library embraces the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals, and is dedicated to fostering global collaborations for a sustainable future.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Palace Hotel Tokyo Garners Coveted Three Keys in MICHELIN Guide

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Palace Hotel Tokyo Garners Coveted Three Keys in MICHELIN Guide - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comAs one of only six hotels in Japan to receive such distinguished recognition, the iconic hotel further solidifies its standing as one of the country’s most esteemed properties. Palace Hotel Tokyo, the luxury property that’s become one of Japan’s most loved hotels since its unveiling in 2012, has been awarded Three Keys by MICHELIN Guide in recognition of its achievements in meeting, and exceeding, the guide’s benchmarks for delivering the world’s most ‘extraordinary stay’ experiences.

As one of only three properties in Tokyo to receive MICHELIN Guide’s highest distinction, Palace Hotel Tokyo continues to elevate its enviable status as the only Japanese-brand hotel to receive such elite standing in addition to the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating which it has held for nine consecutive years as well as the Five-Star rating achieved earlier this year by its evian SPA TOKYO (as one of only four in Japan).

“For decades, MICHELIN Star ratings have stood for exceptionalism, offering highly respected expertise and guidance to gourmands the world over on the most revered dining experiences to be had,” remarked Senior Managing Director and General Manager Masaru Watanabe. “To now receive recognition not only for our dining offerings, but also our hotel from one of the world’s most distinguished arbiters of excellence in hospitality is an incredible honor.”

Described by MICHELIN as “places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler,” each key-rated property has been meticulously – and anonymously – vetted and judged based on categories such as architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, personality and character, and contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Reflecting the “crème de la crème,” MICHELIN’s key-rated hotels are deemed to be of “remarkable quality,” with the Three-Key-worthy recognized for offering “one of the most outstanding experiences in the world.”

“As an independent hotel that’s worked tirelessly to establish its place in the ever-competitive global luxury hotel industry, it’s especially meaningful to us – as a brand and as a team – to achieve such a prestigious distinction,” said Watanabe. “Our Michelin Three Keys will further strengthen our resolve to continuously elevate the level of hospitality that Palace Hotel Tokyo offers as we welcome travelers in search of the best of the best.”

Described as being, “as close as you can get to actually staying on the verdant grounds of the Imperial Palace,” from MICHELIN Guide’s Point of View, “a stay at the Palace Hotel is likely to set a standard that you’ll find other luxury hotels unable to match.”

About Palace Hotel Tokyo
As the anchor to a billion-dollar, mixed-use development which debuted in 2012 following a re-build entirely from the ground up, Palace Hotel Tokyo commands some of the city’s most exclusive real estate as well as incomparable views of the verdant Imperial Palace gardens and the surrounding skyline.

Located in the capital’s prestigious Marunouchi district, the property features 284 rooms & suites, an evian SPA, and 10 distinctive restaurants and bars – including an exquisite range of Japanese cuisines, fine dining Shanghainese & Cantonese at MICHELIN One-Star Amber Palace and contemporary French haute cuisine at MICHELIN One-Star Esterre in partnership with DUCASSE Paris.

As heir to a legacy going back more than half a century as one of Tokyo’s most iconic properties, the hotel remains firmly rooted in its commitment to offering Japanese hospitality at its finest. In addition to receiving a prestigious Three Keys from MICHELIN Guide, the multi-award-winning hotel has held Forbes Travel Guide’s coveted Five-Star status for nine consecutive years and achieved a Five-Star rating for its spa in 2024.

Drawing deeply from the country’s history, culture and art, Palace Hotel Tokyo continues to redefine luxury in Japan with sophistication and authenticity.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Enjoy Major Savings in Dream Destinations Across Asia

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 15, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels Mid-Season Savvy Sale is back with generous discounts at stylish city hotels and stunning beach resorts in dream destinations across Asia.

With our 7-day sale, you can enjoy up to 30% off when you book a stay with BWH Hotels from Wednesday, July 17th to Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024. This enticing offer is available to Best Western Rewards® members who complete their stay before October 30th, 2024.

So, don’t miss out – book your next escape with BWH Hotels’ Mid-Season Savvy Sale! From Bangkok to Cebu, Phu Quoc to Phuket, and Nagoya to The Philippines, we can create your ultimate Asian adventure!

Terms & conditions:
• Receive up to 15% off the hotel’s Best Rate, and BWR members enjoy an additional 15% discount, for a total discount of up to 30%.
• Bookings must be made between July 17th and July 23rd, 2024 (GMT +07:00 hrs.).
• Stays must be taken between July 17th and October 30th, 2024.
• Limited room allocations and blackout dates may apply.
• This promotion cannot be combined with any other offers, packages, or discounts.
• Other terms & conditions may apply, per the property or BWR program.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Zentis Osaka Presents Immersive Experience with Zentis Art-in-Residence

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Zentis Osaka Presents Immersive Experience with Zentis Art-in-Residence - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comParis-based Japanese artist itu’, who has garnered international recognition for his eccentric style, has brought his vision to Zentis Osaka with a captivating installation that has the design-forward hotel featuring works specially created by the artist for this pop-up not only throughout its public spaces, but also as part of a bold transformation of one of its Corner Studios.

Dubbing it ‘crossover’, itu’ took inspiration for the exhibition from his own experiences at the upscale, lifestyle hotel. “Zentis is a place where diverse people gather – regardless of nationality, generation or culture – and where each person’s values ​​transcend borders and naturally intermingle,” observed the artist.

“Similarly, with this installation, I’m endeavoring to eliminate the boundary between art and people by blurring the lines between the traditional perception of art – which is merely for viewing and appreciating from a distance – and everyday items,” said itu’. “While the work being viewed and the viewer are separate entities, naturally, the relationship between them changes depending on how they interact and the factors surrounding an interaction.”

Embodying that ‘crossover’ sentiment, itu’s creations for Zentis Osaka’s debut ‘Art-in-Residence’ program not only encompass over a dozen canvases on display throughout the hotel, but his free-spirited artistry has also been applied to non-traditional mediums such as glassware as well as the furnishings, curtains, bedding and other everyday items found in the singular Corner Studio room that’s been temporarily re-imagined into ‘itu’s Art Studio’.

Those who book a stay in ‘itu’s Art Studio’ will not only have the opportunity to enjoy the immersive art experience throughout the hotel and in their one-of-a-kind accommodation, but will also be able to take their in-room slippers – specially painted by the artist, with no two pairs alike – home as keepsakes.

In the public spaces, the boundaries between art and the hotel are stretched further with two staff sporting custom-painted uniforms by itu’, including stylish footwear – echoing the artistic sneakers and array of impressive collaborations that first drew attention to him.

At UPSTAIRZ Bar, award-winning head bartender Norihiko Furuse has concocted an original cocktail that’s as layered in flavors and aromas as itu’s distinctive style. The vodka-based drink opens with a subtle scent of cedar and notes of sweet white peach before an earthy aroma of sandalwood rounds out the sophisticated cocktail experience.

Born in Japan’s Aichi prefecture, itu’ taught himself to paint and, in 2014, opened his own atelier in the Marais district of Paris – his playful style and vivid palette unbound by conventional canvases from the start. Over the past decade, he’s held shows in France and Singapore, hosted pop-up exhibitions, produced murals and collaborated with well-known brands.

“Since we first arrived on Osaka’s hotel scene four years ago, we set out to be a cultural hub for art, music and craftsmanship,” explained Kiyotaka Saito, Zentis Osaka’s new general manager. “Through collaborations with artists like itu’ and other cultural pursuits – such as our ‘Salon de Zentis’ series, which is a collaboration with acclaimed music producer Naoki Tachikawa celebrating legendary musicians – we’re offering our guests new encounters that, hopefully, broaden their ideas and experiences of Japan.”

Appointed general manager ahead of the property’s fourth anniversary, Saito brings a breadth of experience, including nearly three decades with Palace Hotel Group – the company behind the Zentis brand – spent working across various hotel departments. The early part of his career included a year spent in London immersed in the inner workings of world-renowned properties such as The Savoy, Claridge’s, The Connaught and The Berkeley as part of Palace Hotel Group’s cross-training program. New to Osaka, the Tokyoite looks forward to getting acquainted with his new home city as it prepares to welcome travelers from all over the world for Expo 2025.

‘Zentis Art-in-Residence: itu’s Crossover’ is on now through September 30, 2024. Bookable through October 31, 2024 (subject to availability), a stay in ‘itu’s Art Studio’ starts from JPY45,000 per night, inclusive of taxes and service charge.

ABOUT ZENTIS OSAKA
Zentis Osaka is the debut property of Palace Hotel Group’s Zentis label, a brand with designs on raising the bar on select-service hospitality. Sixteen stories tall, the contemporary build features interiors by internationally renowned UK design firm Tara Bernerd & Partners and a pedigree that stems from the award-winning Palace Hotel Tokyo – the independent, homegrown brand that has redefined luxury Japanese hospitality.

Subtly edgy, wonderfully Japanese and naturally resplendent, the 212-room hotel pays homage to a city known for its industrious charm with an industrial chic look and laid-back feel. Osaka’s first addition to the bespoke collection of Design Hotels features local design touches, including shigaraki-yaki bedside tables crafted in the kilns of Shiga, shodo-inspired wallpaper installations and contemporary works by a local artist.

The dining concept at UPSTAIRZ – the hotel’s lounge, bar and restaurant – was conceived by a team with a Michelin-star track record and features a menu with Japanese and French influences.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News