Global Travel News

Experience Culinary Excellence with Wah Lok Dish of the Month

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Experience Culinary Excellence with Wah Lok Dish of the Month - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comWah Lok Cantonese Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit warmly invites you to savor our new Dish of the Month – Steamed French Snow Fish with Black Bean Sauce, available from now until February.

Crafted by our Executive Chinese Chef, Lam Kok Weng, this dish showcases a generous portion of French Snow Fish prepared with our special Black Bean Sauce, offering a dining experience like no other. The snow fish is not only rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins but also expertly crafted to delight your taste buds.

Don’t miss the chance to elevate your dining experience – come and try the Dish of the Month at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant.

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant

Level 2, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit

Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm

Dinner: 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alma Resort Appoints Executive Sous Chef

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Alma Resort Appoints Executive Sous Chef - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comA seasoned chef with more than two decades of hospitality experience in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Australia has been named beachfront family resort Alma’s executive sous chef.

Swiss-born Tiziano Botta has joined 30-hectare Alma on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula to help oversee its rich culinary landscape comprising 14 dining venues. Beachfront restaurant Atlantis, which specialises in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, Italian trattoria La Casa, and Alma Food Court with its array of local and international cuisine, are among the venues under Botta’s stewardship.

Before joining, he was the executive sous chef during the pre-opening of The Heart of Europe in Dubai, overseeing all of the major development’s food outlets.

Previously Botta was executive sous chef at Kuwait’s Waldorf Astoria during its pre-opening. He has also worked as executive chef at the Royal Sands Koh Rong in Cambodia, and executive sous chef at London’s 45 Park Lane, Dorchester Collection and Suvretta House in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

After studying an apprenticeship at Hotel des Balance in Luzern, Switzerland, he began his hospitality career as a commis chef at Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad. He steadily climbed the career ladder, working as chef de partie at two Michelin-starred restaurant Gaggan in Thailand, with the Caminada restaurant brand in Switzerland, and at renowned chef Peter Gilmore’s Quay Restaurant in Sydney.

He holds two postgraduate degrees in the culinary arts and hotel management, has travelled to more than 90 countries and speaks five languages.

Alma’s executive assistant manager Ingo Stöneberg said Botta was “a highly organised professional” with an excellent track record, who would “maintain high quality, consistency of food and train staff to reach their potential”.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three-bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach, a waterpark, 13-treatment room spa, 75-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, water sports centre, sustainable organic farm and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Group Announces a Shift of its Name to Banyan Group

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Banyan Tree Group Announces a Shift of its Name to Banyan Group - TOP25HOTELS.comSingapore, January 18, 2024 / TOP25HOTELS / Celebrating three decades of creating exceptional experiences across hotels, spas, residences, food and retail, Banyan Tree Group is evolving its corporate umbrella brand from “Banyan Tree Group” to “Banyan Group”. This brand shift reflects the Group’s evolution into a dynamic, multi-brand hospitality powerhouse.

Since 2019, the Group has doubled its brand portfolio, bringing its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences, and purpose driven mission to new destinations, including Banyan Tree AlUla in Saudi Arabia, Garrya in Kyoto, and Folio in Osaka, Japan, Dhawa in Ho Tram, Vietnam, Homm in Huzhou, China and Banyan Tree Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. 2023 also marks a year of strong and steady business performance that has surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

Multi-brand Growth Continues in 2024 With 19 New Openings

“As we celebrate the Group’s 30th anniversary and its evolution into Banyan Group, this milestone is not only testament to the Group’s enduring success in the hospitality industry but also sets the stage for an exciting future,” said Eddy See, President and CEO of Banyan Group. “This brand evolution reflects our portfolio transformation from a single luxury brand to the diverse offering we have today. Almost half of all countries we operate in carry a multi-branded presence, most of them high-growth travel destinations. With a keen eye on expansion, we are seizing new opportunities with our distinct brands, designed to meet evolving traveller preferences and needs in these dynamic markets.”

Banyan Group currently manages 12 global brands, 75 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries and 14 branded residences across 22 countries. As part of a robust pipeline of properties, the Group’s expansion in 2024 will include 19 new properties and residences in Cambodia, China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Mexico. Here are the highlights:

  • The Group’s first property in Cambodia will debut with Angsana Siem Reap
  • The first Banyan Tree property in Japan, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
  • Further enhancing Banyan Group’s multi-brand presence, additional brands are set to debut in Vietnam – Angsana Quan Lan in Halong Bay and Garrya Mu Chang Chai, as well as in South Korea with Cassia and Homm Sokcho.
  • Suzhou, approximately 2 hours away from Shanghai by train or car, will feature two complexes – The first, in Shishan, will include Banyan Tree and Angsana, while the second, by Yangcheng Lake, will include Banyan Tree and Garrya
  • Angsana Tengchong marks the Group’s fifth property in the Yunnan province of China
  • In North America, Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe marks the debut of the first full-fledged Banyan Tree Veya in Mexico

Record-Breaking Business Performance in 2023

The robust growth slated for 2024 has been driven by a resilient recovery post-Covid, surpassing pre-pandemic metrics across various regional markets. Key 2023 metrics include:

  • Hotels achieved higher RevPAR, up by 44%, in 9M2023 compared to 9M2022, and also surpassed the pre-pandemic performance by 27% as opposed to 9M2019, on a same store-store basis.
  • Residence sales for 9M2023 reached 90% of the full-year sales in 2022, which was the best year on record.
  • China has proven to be a strategic driver, with a remarkable +49% increase in RevPAR 9M2023 compared to the same period last year, and +18% increase in RevPAR compared to pre-Covid level in 2019 on a same-store basis. The operating footprint has expanded from 16 in 2019 to 25 properties in 2023, with 14 more in the three-year pipeline. Continued growth is anticipated, driven by a healthy opening pipeline and the strength of the domestic and outbound Chinese market in both residences and hospitality
  • The recent buyback deal with China Vanke further strengthens the Group’s position as a key player in the hospitality industry by streamlining strategic decision-making in response to market dynamics and enhancing day-to-day operational efficiency.

New Sustainability Commitments and Deepened Differentiation

Simultaneously, the company has maintained its pioneering spirit and commitment to both design-led experiences and a purpose-driven mission of stewardship and responsible tourism, making it a trailblazer for inclusive growth and sustainability.

“As Banyan Group celebrates our collective success over the last 30 years, we also recognize that the progress can’t stop here,” said Ren Yung Ho, Senior Vice President, Brand & Commercial at Banyan Group. “The core beliefs and values that have guided Banyan Group to this milestone will continue to underpin our growth strategy as we remain dedicated to being a force for positive change for both people and the planet.”

In 2024, Banyan Group will align with United Nations Climate Science-based Targets to develop a comprehensive 2030 Sustainability Roadmap that addresses both environmental and human capital development in line with its founding ethos of Embracing the Environment, Empowering People. It will also pioneer a circularity pilot project, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to advance the hospitality industry’s transition to regenerative practices.

The Group will also launch Laguna Lakelands in Phuket, its most ambitious nature-integrated development. Spanning 110 hectares, Laguna Lakelands will encompass a Rainforest park, over 10km of treetop skywalks, and six distinct zones—orchard, lakeside, lagoon, valley, and forest—ushering in a new era of immersive living.

New Programming and Initiatives

During its 30th anniversary in 2024, Banyan Group will launch Beyond, a new digital companion that offers a holistic experience across its codified wellbeing framework, and with Banyan, an experiential members programme that rewards engagement, interactions and actions. The celebration extends globally with 11 trade pop-ups, engaging global consumer campaigns, the launch of 8 signature scents inspired by the Group’s eight pillars of wellbeing and limited edition artisanal anniversary gifts, all crafted in collaboration with the communities where the Group operates.

ABOUT BANYAN GROUP
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans over 70 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HAVE GUN WIILL TRAVEL: US intercepts record number of firearms at airports in 2023

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US Security officials intercepted a record number of firearms – nearly all of them (93%) loaded – at US airports in 2023, says the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The total of 6,737 firearms at airport security checkpoints, surpassed the previous record of 6,542 firearms in 2022, and the highest one-year total in TSA’s history. The worst offender was Atlanta, followed by Dallas and Houston.

TSA notes that its efforts prevented the guns getting into the secure areas of the airport and onboard aircraft.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, which ended Dec. 31, Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) stopped 1,665 firearms at checkpoints. The total represents an average of 18 firearms per day at TSA checkpoints.

A small consolation is that TSA screened more than 858 million individuals, which indicates the agency intercepted 7.8 firearms per million passengers, a drop from 8.6 per million passengers in 2022.

Nevertheless, TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, “We are still seeing far too many firearms at TSA checkpoints, and what’s particularly concerning is the amount of them loaded, presenting an unnecessary risk to everyone at the TSA checkpoint.”

In the US, firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited in carry-on baggage. Passengers are only allowed to travel with an unloaded firearm, and only if they pack it properly in a locked, hard-sided case in their checked baggage and first declare it to the airline at the check-in counter.

When a firearm is detected at a security checkpoint, TSOs immediately contact local law enforcement, who remove the passenger and the firearm from the checkpoint area. Depending on local laws, the law enforcement officer may arrest or cite the passenger. TSA does not confiscate firearms.

In addition to any action taken by law enforcement, TSA fines passengers who bring a firearm to a TSA checkpoint with a civil penalty up to approximately $15,000, revokes TSA PreCheck eligibility for at least five years and may conduct enhanced screening to ensure there are no other threats present.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WELCOME TO WREXHAM: Unlikely soccer story puts Welsh city on the map

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Three years into the unlikely ownership of Wrexham AFC soccer/football club by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the appeal of their accompanying (and explanatory) documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham” continues to skyrocket. The series, and overall exposure, generated by the celebrity owners and the fairytale story that has ensued, has gifted the city with an unexpected moment in the global spotlight and, subsequently, a not-surprising surge of visitors to sleepy North Wales.

Indeed, it’s hard to imagine that the British Division Two team’s game against similarly lowly Shrewsbury would otherwise have been broadcast on Sportsnet across Canada last Sunday if not for the popularity of the TV series, which garnered five Creative Arts Emmys this week.

Not unlike the flock of “Ted Lasso” fans to Richmond outside London to see the setting for that hugely popular Apple TV show, Wrexham is welcoming both football and film fans eager to see what all the fuss about in a place of which Reynolds (the Canadian star of the Deadpool movies) tweeted: “The love for this club and town: Indescribable.”

“The hype about the place is fantastic,” says 36-year-old star player Steven Fletcher, who has played in the Premier League and internationally with Scotland. “When you come in, even for just training days, there’s loads of people around the stadium. I’ve played for Premier League teams, and you don’t see that.”

Recently, a season-high attendance of 12,233 fans attended a game against Barrow at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground – reputedly the world’s oldest international football stadium – which is a remarkable figure given the team is still only playing in English soccer’s fourth tier.

The buzz around Wrexham and its owners reached new levels during a FA Cup run around this time last year when the ‘Red Dragons’ beat one second-tier Championship team in Coventry and then took another, Premier League-bound Sheffield United, to a replay.

That followed the historic team’s – it was founded in 1864 – promotion out of non-league football last year (where it had resided since 2008), which came with a dramatic conclusion to the team’s season, but also the TV series.

Parades and enthusiasm ensued in Wrexham (and the TV series was renewed).

Continuing to follow its unlikely Hollywood-style script, the team to date this year is in second place in the table, poised to move up again to just two divisional rungs away from playing the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United.

Fueled by the financial backing and promotional presence of Reynolds, and McElhenney (creator of TV show “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”), the club is unrecognizable (except to its legion of new international fans) compared to the one on its knees a few years ago amid ownership issues and financial concerns.

These days, there are sell-out crowds at the atmospheric Racecourse, which has a very North American feel to the place with Betty Buzz, United Airlines and Aviation American Gin on the electronic advertising hoardings and the sight of fans wearing hats of NFL teams like the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears.

“I don’t think any of us could have seen the whole furor at the club,” says Paul Mullin, another team star, about the explosion around Wrexham. “It’s been a phenomenal journey but one that’s not stopping here. We’re on the train for quite a while.”

Welcome to Wrexham

So, planning a visit perhaps?

Where is Wrexham?

 The bustling and historic market town of Wrexham is located on the English border in North Wales, about an hour’s drive south of Liverpool and 30 minutes from the famed black-and-white tourist town of Chester.

Beyond Wrexham AFC and the Racecourse, what is there to see?

 

  • The Wrexham Museum and Wrexham Heritage Trail.
  • Chirk Castle: A magnificent medieval fortress of the Welsh Marches, the 13th-century Marcher castle from 1595 became the home of the Myddelton family for over 400 years.
  • Saint Giles church: The historic Parish Church of Wrexham – a working church, not a museum – has been dubbed one of the “Seven Wonders of Wales” and represents a very visible sign of the faith of town’s people over many centuries.
  • Erridg Hall: A late 17th-century country house saved from dereliction in the 1970s, the much-loved home, garden and estate is filled with the stories of a family and their servants
  • Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: UNESCO has described this world heritage site as “a masterpiece of creative genius.” The first 18 km. of the Llangollen Canal is an outstanding piece of industrial and engineering heritage comprising embankments, tunnels, viaducts, and aqueducts, including the stunning Pontcysyllte Aqueduct itself and 31 other listed structures.

Beyond Wrexham

 In addition to aforementioned Liverpool (a rejuvenated city with unparalleled maritime heritage museums, Liverpool FC, and, of course, The Beatles), and Chester, Wrexham is an ideal base for exploring North Wales, including Snowdonia National Park – a two-hour drive; fabulous Conwy Castle (90 minutes); and the start of the Wales Coastal Path (30 minutes, at Chester).

(With files from Associated Press)

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GUCCI’S WORLD AT LONDON’S SAVVY SAVOY

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Observing luxurious luggage and elegant clothes of the hotel’s high-heeled guests as he escorted them from floor to floor, the future fashion icon was inspired and set on his path to starting his own leather goods It’s not the oldest of London’s top-tier luxury hotels but The Savoy is arguably the most famous. Many would also argue it’s also the best, living up to every inch of it’s outsized reputation. Founded in 1889, the iconic property has hosted a bevy of rich and famous patrons (Monet painted from it’s windows) over its nearly 135 years, and even some who weren’t famous yet – like Guccio Gucci, who once worked there as a luggage and lift-boy early.company, shortly after his return to Italy from London.

Indeed, ever since the company’s founding, Gucci has frequently featured or mentioned the theme of travel, referencing the iconography of luxury hotels and the jetsetters who populated them in the early decades of the 1900s.

And with the fashion company having celebrated its centenary in 2021, The Savoy and Gucci continue to leverage their shared history in a host of creative ways, from design features to exceptional experiences for guests and clients.

Gucci at the Savoy, early 20th century

The modern relationship between the two was first under the spotlight upon the reveal of Gucci’s Aria Collection in April 2021, privately screened locally at The Savoy. The Collection and its presentation included numerous nods to the hotel and its role in shaping Gucci’s mythology.

The partnership’s latest iteration has been the transformation of The Savoy’s Royal Suite – the hotel’s flagship suite, which runs the length of the 5th floor riverside featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame spectacular views of the river Thames and London landmarks.

Both opulent and comfortable, the interior of the Royal Suite was redesigned to reflect the Gucci world, with furniture, furnishings and decorative items from the Gucci Décor Collection, and art and antiquities specially curated by auctioneers Christie’s to harmonize with the Gucci aesthetic and the design and heritage of The Savoy.

In addition, art and antiquities from auctioneers Christie’s were carefully chosen to complement the blend of Edwardian architecture and art deco style of the hotel, prompting Adrien Meyer, Global Head of Private Sales at Christie’s to proclaim at the time, “Together with Gucci, the Royal Suite at The Savoy will become the most exclusive place to stay in London.”

Uniquely, all of the items in the Royal Suite added by Gucci and Christie’s are available for purchase, making the Royal Suite an exceptionally exclusive showroom.

Royal Suite

The Royal Suite also offers a dedicated butler, use of The Savoy’s Rolls Royce within a five-kilometre radius, return transfers, plus bespoke in-room amenities and welcome gifts; plus Gucci experiences, such as evening cocktails, and a VIP personalized Gucci shopping experience, either within The Royal Suite by Gucci, or in one of Gucci’s flagship London stores, with private Rolls Royce transfer.

Guests are also supported by an “army of fabulous professionals” within the hotel from chefs to bartenders, florists to therapists, all of whom can create unique bespoke experiences. The network of butler and concierge can also be relied on to secure access to dining and entertainment opportunities across the city and equally can support any business needs guests may have.

And the price, in case you’re wondering? Just CDN$27,000 per night (breakfast included).

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HOTEL WEEK: Kempinski adds two landmark hotels in Dubai

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Kempinski Hotels has doubled its footprint in Dubai after signing a partnership with Abu Dhabi National Hotels to rebrand two iconic properties. On Jan. 1, the Kempinski flag was hoisted above Kempinski The Boulevard Dubai and Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai, formerly Address Boulevard and Address Dubai Mall respectively. The addition of these two landmark properties to the Kempinski portfolio significantly expands the brand’s presence in Dubai, which was one of the best-performing destinations worldwide for the luxury hotel group in 2023.

“This important milestone marks an enormous step forward for Kempinski and cements our role as one of the dominant luxury hotel brands in the Middle East (and) one of the first luxury hotel companies to secure a foothold in the United Arab Emirates in the late 1990s…” says René Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kempinski S.A. “Following a record year of performance, we will continue to grow our portfolio across the region in 2024 and beyond.”

Rising 72 storeys high, Kempinski The Boulevard Dubai is a beacon of luxury in the heart of Downtown Dubai, steps from attractions including Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera and the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. The urban resort is home to 198 well-appointed rooms and suites and a collection of elegant residences, with neutral tones contemporary décor, details have been designed to create a sophisticated and homely environment, with fine furnishings, original artworks and technological innovations that complement spectacular views.

Elevating the hotel restaurant concept to new heights, guests will be welcomed into a collection of beautiful dining rooms, where modern brasserie-style cuisine is served in The Living Room, The Kitchen, The Collection Room, and The Dining Room, as well as several private dining areas for intimate gatherings and an open-air terrace.

A 760-sq-m spa offers rejuvenating treatments, including clay wraps, hammams and signature experiences in the salt and steam rooms. Outside, three swimming pools dotted with palm trees offer an oasis of greenery, while the kids’ club has an immersive program of games and learning experiences to keep junior jetsetters busy.

Kempinski Hotel Central Avenue Dubai

Steps away, Kempinski Hotel Central Avenue Dubai with its 245 luxurious rooms and suites is conveniently connected to The Dubai Mall, where luxury brands from around the world are gathered alongside smart dining concepts, an impressive aquarium, indoor ice-rink, and a glittering gold souk.

Rooms, suites, and residences embody a sense of understated elegance, with pared-back design and muted tones accented with artworks, ambient lighting, and touchpad technology controls. Each one boasts its own private balcony affording stellar views of Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa or the city skyline.

Innovative dining venues offer a selection of culinary styles, from modern Middle Eastern cuisine, afternoon tea to home-style international dining, and an award-winning spa offers a selection of signature rituals and treatments designed to enhance wellbeing.

“These two landmark hotels embody a sense of modern Arabian luxury and timeless European elegance,” says René Nijhof. “Kempinski has been present in the Middle East for more than 26 years and it remains one of the most dynamic and exciting parts of the world for us. With these new additions to the constellation and a strong pipeline in the region, we reassert our reputation as a trusted partner in the Middle East and around the globe.”

In addition to the two new properties, Dubai is home to Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates and Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah. When it opens in 2025, Kempinski Residences The Creek Dubai will become the first standalone Kempinski private residences in the region.

Ed. note: Still to come during Hotel Week: The Savoy, London. Previous: Hard Rock, Accor, Jumeirah.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ARE YOUR CLIENTS SICK OF WINTER? Here’s where to send them

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Have you been tirelessly fielding requests from clients who are done with winter’s chilly antics? They’ve simply had enough of having frozen fingertips, shoveling driveways, and experiencing a wardrobe crisis every time they leave the house. It’s not just the winter blues; the never-ending small talk about the weather just about morphed them into the grumpiest version of themselves.

Sounds like it’s high time to drench some much-needed sunshine onto their icy attitudes and whisk them away to a tropical paradise. Whether your clients choose to come back relaxed, come back adventurous, or come back full… They’ll unquestionably come back changed.

Limited-time savings

Save up to 40% off on South packages and up to 20% off South flights during our Come Back Changed promo. And get 3X BONBON, too!

If they only pretended to hold the doors open

At the Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana Resort & Spa, your clients won’t have to lift a finger. Except for sipping a cocktail, of course! Paint a picture for them: Basking in the lap of indulgence, surrounded by pristine beaches, while enjoying gourmet dining and lavish accommodations that will make them forget all about winter. From pampering spa treatments to lounging by the pool while the kids are busy in the water park, this resort has mastered the art of Unlimited Luxury® pampering.

If they’re wearing sunglasses to avoid eye contact

Here, they’ll want to keep those shades on even after dark! And why is that? Because your sun-starved clients won’t want to miss a moment of the dazzling show the sun puts on every evening as it sets over the Pacific. They’ll be soaking up the vibrant hues from the beach, from their private balcony, or while sipping cocktails by the saltwater pool. This intimate resort is known for its character and colonial charm, its gourmet dining, and its sunsets that are simply second to none. In fact, CC Beach Front Papagayo offers memorable moments – and a stylish excuse to wear sunglasses around the clock!

If someone’s breathing sets them off

Let’s put it this way: Hiking in Peru is like having the gym to yourself, but with way better views!

Your clients will be grateful to say goodbye to sweaty strangers on the treadmill and hello to a solo trek on some of the most breathtaking (literally) trails in Latin America. From the craggy beauty of the Andes to the quiet solitude of the Amazon jungle, the only sounds they’ll encounter are the twittering of birds and the whispering of the wind. So why not encourage them to try something a little different this year? Surely their hiking boots are still in perfect condition, awaiting their next exciting adventure.

If social media is as social as they get

Cozumel Island is where travellers can achieve their lifelong dream of being alone on an island, minus the castaway misadventures!

Whether your clients prefer to snorkel in solitude or sunbathe on the beach at Santa Pilar with only the iguanas for company, this is where peace and tranquility reign supreme. This quiet Mexican paradise is indeed their ticket to escape the crowds and revel in the blissful art of silence. All this is possible at the all-inclusive Melia Cozumel, especially with an upgrade to The Level. Not only will your clients receive personalized service, but they’ll also have access to exclusive areas. They’ll enjoy private check-in, breakfast in a members-only lounge, and private Bali beds on the beach. Complete and utter serenity guaranteed!

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Hotel Sustainability Basics for a Sustainable 2024

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London, United Kingdom, January 8, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics is set to end if first year on a high with more than 1,300 hotels verified, across more than 30 countries from around the world.

The Hotel Sustainability Basics is an independent global sustainability verification programme, overseen by internationally recognised verifiers, Green Key and SGS.

The aim is for hotels around the world, regardless of their size, to follow a 12 step programme to reduce carbon emissions, protect and promote nature, and ensure local communities benefit from the hotel.

It is achievable for all hotels to implement as a bare minimum, and crucially, they serve as a stepping-stone to more complex sustainability schemes.

In its first year, Hotel Sustainability Basics has been endorsed by destinations around the world such as the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador.

The ‘Basics’ has also been adopted by a number of major hotel brands around the world such as Jin Jiang, the world’s second biggest hotel group with more than 10,000 hotels, European hotel giant Louvre Hotel Group, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Other major brands which have signed up Hotel Sustainability Basics include adventure travel specialist Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds, Biosphere, and Abercrombie & Kent.

Together, this underscores a global commitment to sustainable Travel & Tourism from across the hospitality industry, and the global tourism body expects thousands more hotels from all four corners of the globe will adopt Hotel Sustainability Basics next year.

Significantly, the recently announced partnership between WTTC, the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (SHA) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has cemented a clear pathway in the hospitality sustainability journey.

This collaboration will establish a structured framework from the Basics towards advanced global standards for hotel sustainability.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Basics is a global programme to support hotels to cut emissions, support local communities and protect nature. Launched last year, it is the only independent scheme that gives hotels a helping hand to look at their environmental impact. The take up of Basics is going from strength to strength with whole countries committed to make real, lasting change.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on strengthening these efforts, ensuring that every step we take brings us closer to a unified vision of sustainability in hospitality. Hotel Sustainability Basics has gone from strength to strength in its first year and we’re expecting thousands more properties to adopt the initiative throughout 2024.”

Satu Rouhiainen, Sustainability Manager, British Airways Holidays said: “Working closely together with our industry and value chain partners is paramount to British Airways Holidays. We are delighted to be supporting the Hotel Sustainability Basics, offering our hotel partners a fair and industry recognised criteria to start their sustainability journey.

“Not only does it give us visibility of the hotels’ progress, but it also provides our customers a way to search for hotels that are committed to progressing in sustainability.”

WTTC is committed to leading the charge in sustainable Travel & Tourism. Continuously fostering collaborations and setting new sustainability, the global tourism body global is committed to ensuring a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for the Travel & Tourism sector.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wynn Invites Impressive Line-Up of Guest Chefs to Macau

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Wynn Invites Impressive Line-Up of Guest Chefs to Macau - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comMacau, Macao SAR, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Wynn is starting the New Year by inviting an incredible line-up of five culinary artists for the “Celebrity Chef Pop-Up Kitchen at Wynn Macau” and Four-hand Collaboration dinners in January. 2020 MasterChef UK Finalist Sandy Tang will be the first to proudly present her own culinary heritage of Macau with British flair; Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén will showcase his native Nordic dishes with a Thai twist; and Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng of Guan Yan Liu Jin in Hangzhou will craft delicacies from his hometown of Chaoshan. Two resident chefs at Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau will also partner with two guest chefs to host Four-hand Collaboration dinners. Executive Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral of the Forbes Five- Star SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace will partner with Chef-owner Eric Räty of the 2-MICHELIN- star Arbor, while Executive Chef Hironori Maeda of the 2-MICHELIN-star Mizumi at Wynn Macau will work with Executive Chef Mitsuru Konishi of the MICHELIN-starred ZEST by Konishi. These high quality, monthly dining events at Wynn aim to bring exceptional culinary talent to Macau, continue raising the bar in gastronomy and promote Macau as a “Creative City of Gastronomy”.

At the age of 24, Chef Sandy Tang entered the 2020 MasterChef UK competition just to see how far she could go, and she made it all the way to the finals! Originally from Macau, she moved to the UK when she was just 13 and grew up surrounded by a unique fusion of cultures. Having spent half her life in Asia and half in the UK, she embraces the ideas and techniques of both East and West when working in the kitchen, producing innovative fusion concepts that are still grounded in tradition. From January 4 to 6, Chef Tang will create a variety of special delicacies at Wynn Macau including: Salted Cod and Scallop served with Tomato Consommé Granita and Grouper Broth, a Lotus Pastry filled with Hawthorn Berries Paste served with 24 Herbs Ice Cream and Crumble, and much more.

Originally from Sweden, Executive Head Chef Nilas Corneliussen of Villa Frantzén in Bangkok has always been fascinated by Thailand. He initially pursued Thai boxing before discovering his true

calling in culinary. He worked his way up from all sections of Stockholm’s trattoria to the MICHELIN- starred Esperanto, while simultaneously winning silver for the Swedish team in the Bocuse d’Or finals, not just once, but twice! Geeky about Thai cooking and fluent in Thai, Chef Nilas seamlessly blends the Frantzén Nordics, pan-Asian influences and Siam flavors, and elevates them to an entirely new level. From January 12 to 14, he will showcase his creative culinary talents at Wynn Macau through these innovative dishes: Oyster 63.4C with gooseberries and Kavring bread; Scallop and caviar; Cured Norwegian salmon and beer poached king crab and more.

Portuguese native Chef Helder Sequeira Amaral has worked for many renowned restaurants in his home of Portugal and many other countries before moving to Macau more than a decade ago. Chef Helder has successfully attained the Forbes Five-Star award for SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace, where he will join Chef-owner Eric Räty from the 2-MICHELIN-star Arbor, in a four-hand dinner collaboration from January 18 to 20. Chef Eric honed his skills in culinary while in Europe working for the 2-MICHELIN-star Chez Dominique and the 3-MICHELIN-star Restaurant Aqua at The Ritz- Carlton, Wolfsburg. Craving for new challenges, he headed to Hong Kong. Now, as chef-owner at Arbor, Chef Eric uses his extraordinary talent to create refined Nordic-Japanese cuisine. During their time together in Macau, Chef Helder and Chef Eric will combine their culinary skills to prepare American classic steaks and Nordic-Japanese dishes such as: Bresse Chicken Ravioli, Japanese Wagyu Cross Breed B3, and more at SW Steakhouse.

Originally from Chaoshan, Head Chef Wang Xiaofeng is now at the helm of Guan Yan Liu Jin. Throughout his culinary career, he has worked alongside and trained under many famous chefs, gaining a deep understanding and true appreciation for the authentic flavors of Chaozhou cuisine. At Guan Yan Liu Jin, he selects just the right Chaozhou ingredients and prepares them with the traditional and extremely meticulous cooking techniques of Chaoshan. He prepares each one of his dishes with such perfection, his refined delicacies at Guan Yan Liu Jin have garnered a mention in the inaugural edition of The MICHELIN Guide Hangzhou in 2023. During his time at Wynn Macau from January 19 to 21, he will introduce the gastronomy of his hometown, by capturing the original flavors, colors, and aromas of Chaoshan cuisine.

For dining reservations and enquiries at Wynn Macau, please call: (853) 8986 3663.

About Wynn Macau
Wynn Macau is a luxury hotel and casino resort in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with two iconic towers featuring a total of 1,010 spacious rooms and suites, approximately 294,000 square feet of casino space, over 64,300 square feet of retail space, 14 food and beverage outlets, two spas, a salon and a pool. The resort proudly boasts three distinct entertainment experiences, including Macau’s only choreographed Performance Lake, blending lofty plumes of water, gracefully choreographed music from Broadway tunes to renowned Chinese songs, powerful LED lights and fire effects.

Wynn Macau is operated by international resort developer Wynn Resort s , recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Macau continues to hold the distinct honor of being the only resort in the world with 8 Forbes Five-Star Awards for seven consecutive years. Wynn Macau opened on September 6, 2006 and its second tower – Encore opened on April 21, 2010.

About Wynn Palace
Wynn Palace is the second luxury integrated resort from international resort developer Wynn Resorts in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, following the launch of Wynn Macau. Located in the Cotai area, it features a 28-storey hotel with 1,706 exquisitely furnished rooms, suites and villas, versatile meeting facilities, approximately 107,000 square feet of renowned luxury retail, 14 food and beverage outlets, Macau’s largest spa, a salon, a pool and approximately 468,000 square feet of casino space. The resort also features a variety of entertainment experiences, including the dazzling 8-acre Performance Lake that mesmerizes guests with a choreographed display of water, music and light, the unique SkyCab, spectacular, large-scale floral displays and an extensive collection of art works by some of the world’s leading artists.

Wynn Resorts is the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Wynn Palace is the first and only resort in the world with more than one thousand rooms to receive Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards. Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News