Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Krabi Unveils Valentine’s Day Special

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Banyan Tree Krabi Unveils Valentine’s Day SpecialLocated on tranquil Tubkaek Beach, and tiered into a lush hillside facing westward towards the Andaman Sea and the sunset, Banyan Tree Krabi has become one of Thailand’s best-loved venues for Valentine’s Day and romance since it opened its doors to guests in 2020.

Beginning around sunset on February 14th, eight lucky couples are invited to gather on the resort’s beachfront lawn where an intimate candlelit dinner will be served inside a private bamboo gazebo to the accompaniment of live music. The set menu features amorous delicacies such as Crispy Beer Battered Oyster in Rose Jam, Smoked Salmon Gravlax, and Black Caviar, which will be followed by entrées of Roasted Wagyu Beef Tenderloin or Pan-Roasted Black Kingfish with Grilled Krabi Lobster, and rounded off with some sumptuous chocolate-inspired desserts.

Bookings for Valentine’s evening are expected to be at an all-time high this year, not only at Banyan Tree Krabi, but across the lush tropical province which was recently voted “Best Romantic Destination in the World” by readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine India and South Asia.

With its iconic limestone cliffs jutting from a sapphire sea, white-sand beaches and exquisite seafood, Krabi claimed the “Best Romantic” title in a tie with The Maldives and the oasis city of AlUla in Saudi Arabia at this year’s Travel + Leisure awards, beating traditionally dreamy locations such as Lucerne in Switzerland, the Greek island of Santorini, and the Bahamas.

Nowhere along the palm-fringed Krabi coastline is that sense of sensuality more pronounced than at Banyan Tree Krabi, which faces a marine national park, peppered with uninhabited islets, including Koh Hong, famous for its hidden lagoon.

Each of the resort’s 72 suites and villas has its own private pool including a hot jet pool. The rooms are modern and bright; decor is contemporary chic with gentle tones of wood, stone and sand that are easy on the eye.

A freshwater stream winds downhill from the surrounding hillside into the property where Banyan Tree’s innovative design team has sculpted a beautiful tropical canal to ferry the springwater to the sea. The rush of water is a recurrent sight and sound at the floral 10-acre resort, where guests are constantly treated to the trickle of streams or the cascading of waterfalls, from the spectacular water feature gracing the lobby to a small waterpark for kids.

Weddings are, of course, popular at this five-star resort with its spectacular backdrop. Options include a traditional Siamese ceremony or a Western-style white wedding.

Facilities at the hotel include two restaurants and a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and — in keeping with Banyan Tree’s wellness branding — a rainforest-themed spa, which includes special Couples’ Packages.

Saffron, the hotel’s signature Thai restaurant with its picture-postcard Bird’s Nest tables perched vertiginously among the trees, can be reached by electric funicular.

Bookings in advance are frequently required for Bird’s Nest tables due to their popularity. And only eight reservations will be taken for the gazebos on the beachfront for the Valentine’s Day dinner, as Chef Tum and his team seek to create an ambience of privacy and intimacy.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE

Banyan Tree offers a Sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. An all-villa concept often with private pools, Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience.

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

WASN’T THAT A PARTY: Italian town celebrates 500 years of Carnival tradition

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“What in God’s name are you wearing?” my neighbour asks. “Me! Look at you! You look a right idiot.” So, there we stand in our respective costumes, surveying our splendour in my hallway mirror. Serena is costumed up as Po, the red Teletubby (UK kids TV show) and I’m Kermit the Frog. “We could become a thing,” I said. “It might catch on.”

February is Carnival month in Italy – when every city becomes a colourful sea of masks, confetti, and lights. It’s a celebration of ancient origins that has become a country-wide cultural event, combining tradition and fun, and creating unique shows.

Offida (province of Ascoli Piceno) is one of Italy’s top 20 most beautiful destination villages, and once a year becomes a cult destination for Carnival lovers. The reason for this is because of the inclusive atmosphere, the myths and ancient rituals, but above all, it’s the adrenaline-charged desire to have fun. It’s impossible to feel like a tourist.

2024 marks Offida’s 500th Carnival Anniversary. Historically speaking, these guys know how to throw a party.

One of the highlights of the Offida Carnival tradition is the symbolic bullfight (Lu Bov Fint, meaning fake bull) on Feb. 9. It dates to religious feasts of the ancient past, celebrating the New Year and the beginning of spring.

The fake bull is an oblong wood and iron frame covered with white and red cloth, adorned with an angry looking bovine head complete with a massive set of horns. The bull is carried on the shoulders of young men who run through the streets of Offida’s historic town centre, with chasing crowds coming up the rear, and other spectators hanging out of their windows cheering on the masses.

From under the frame, two very fit men blindly run the bull, while another two guide it from the outside. This is a much-lauded role and has men apply for the honorary position years in advance. Leading up to the day, the runners train hard for the task ahead. In fact, it’s so taxing on the mind, body, and senses, there are several back-up teams to take over and give the lead runners some respite.

From the top of the hill, and through Offida’s cobbled streets and narrow alleys, you can hear the echoing chants of the crowd. Thousands of people participate in this event (wearing the guazzarò or the typical bullfighter costume) chasing after the panicked bull, taunting it, poking at it, and shoving it along in the direction of Piazza del Popolo. The chaos caused by the bull’s sudden changes in direction, and the screams of the crowd generate moments of panic, which are generally resolved with hilarity and red wine, which is consumed in copious amounts.

Once on the Piazza, the crowd disperse, creating a clearing for the lengthy and dramatic bullfight. This is also the location of the bull’s demise, and before its symbolic slaughter, its horns are made to touch a column of the Town Hall. The final act of this celebration is a procession carrying the dead bull through the streets of Offida as the crowd sings what has now become the Carnival anthem. “Addio Ninetta Addio.”

Let’s burn them reeds

Meanwhile, on Shrove Tuesday (Feb. 13) it’s the turn of the ‘Vlurd’ procession. A dusk parade of ‘farmers’ clad in white robes, who slowly parade, in single file, through the streets of Offida, bearing massive burning spindles of tall reeds. As night descends the long procession of burning reeds take on the look of a flaming red serpent. Later, much later, several hundred farmers deposit their blazing bundles into the centre of Piazza del Popolo, which creates an enormous bonfire, symbolizing the start of Lent and the end of the Carnival. Screams and songs fuse with swirls of grey smoke and plumes of brilliant gold sparks as the pagan fire lights up the square.

For everyone, the traditional costume is the guazzarò – a white cloth garment edged in red (the colours of Carnival). It’s a close relation of the tunic that men and women once wore whilst working in the fields. It was also originally adopted during the traditional procession of li vlurd, so as not to get dirty while carrying the burning and partly charred bundles on their arms. Over time this garment has been reworked and has become the traditional uniform of carnival celebrations. But on this final day of the Carnival anything goes as everyone in Offida tries to out-dress and out-crazy the next with masks, wigs, painted faces, and bizarre costumes – most worn simultaneously.

Then there’s the great masquerade ‘Veglionissimi’ after-party at the Serpente Aureo Theatre.

But around these events, whose origins are connected to 16th century peasants, there is much more. Costumed balls in the red velvet setting of the Serpente Aureo theatre, masked parades, food, and wine banquets and, most of all, the long preparation period that begins on Jan. 13, and following exacting events that demands perfect timing which all relies on the extraordinary organizational machine of the covens – historical masked groups, linked by kinship, and formed to embolden and bond traditions.

Each coven has its own organization, a uniform, a banner, and a distinctive form of participation in the Carnival. They are the true leaders of the carnival festivities, the creative people who tirelessly produce music, dancing, and other types of entertainment in the squares and at traditional gatherings. The real celebration begins when, on Shrove Tuesday the mayor of the Marche village hands them the key to the city.

The Offida Carnival is not a party to be attended, but a collective and somewhat frenzied ritual in which everyone, Offidans and visitors alike, must partake. It is an authentic interpretation of the free and inclusive spirit of the Carnival which, for just a few days, forgets formalities and divisions.

However, it may take some time for the good folk of Offida to forget about the antics of Kermit the Frog and his sidekick, Po, the red Teletubby.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: ‘Illicit whisky’ and dream drams at London’s Síbín

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“Hidden in plain sight behind a secret door,” and situated in one of London’s most historic and cherished buildings, the Síbín whisky bar has launched a global “Whisky Passport” designed to take patrons on a flavour journey beyond the British capital with some of the world’s best vintages.

Síbín is a term coined in Ireland meaning “illicit whisky” and was used to refer to an illicit club where excisable alcoholic drinks were sold without a licence.

Located in the five-start Great Scotland Yard Hotel (off Whitehall near Trafalgar Square), the namesake (now perfectly legal) bar offers high-quality whiskies with wood and smoke flavour profiles alongside classic and creative cocktails, food pairings and snacks. Featuring artwork from the likes of Alastair Mackie, Belinda Frikh and Cornelia Parker RA, each piece adorning the walls has been chosen to reflect the bar’s glamorous and sultry atmosphere.

The elegantly designed and printed Whisky Passport features 10 whiskies from around the world and a dream dram of a very rare and limited SKU.

Carefully and specially curated, the passport features cocktails using whiskies from the following regions:

• England – Masthouse: Column Malt
• Scotland – Elements of Islay: Sherry Cask
• Ireland – Waterford: ArgotFinland – Kyrö Whisk
• US – Michters: American Whisky
• Canada– Signal Hill
• Australia – Starward: Leftfield
• Taiwan – Kavalan: Single Malt
• Japan – Nikka: Yoichi
• Dream Dram – Japan: Mars: Komagatake Shinshu 2021

The latter Komagatake malt is made at the Shinshu distillery, Japan’s highest, sitting at 800 m. above sea level, surrounded by pure spring water, and impacted by a particularly harsh climate. A superb single malt, the Mars Komagatake 2021 edition boasts a core of bourbon cask matured single malt, supported by portions matured in sherry and Port casks and displays plenty of sweet stone fruit, oaken vanilla, and honeyed nuts alongside the rich, oily malt at its core.

The first whisky cocktail and stamp are included with the purchase of the passport at £50. The subsequent nine cocktails (redeemable in any order) are offered at a 50% discount (£18 reduced to £9). Upon completion, customers will receive the complimentary dream dram. Passports can be purchased from Síbín, the hotel’s front desk, or online HERE.

Síbín touts the passport as ideal for both whisky connoisseurs and those curious about the world of whisky, with each offering featuring the brand history and unique cocktail, ultimately revealing “a new destination for your palate.”

Great Scotland Yard Hotel

Situated in an 1820’s Grade II listed building, the five-star Great Scotland Yard Hotel is a member of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection and offers 151 rooms and suites combining both tradition and modern luxury. Home to ‘old Nordic’ restaurant Ekstedt at the Yard – headed up by Michelin starred chef Niklas Eksted – the five-star hotel also features The 40 Elephants; Síbín (open Tues.-Sat. 7 p.m.-1 p.m.); an afternoon tea lounge, and more.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click HERE:

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Andorra Opens Debate on Sustainability & Wellness in Mountain Destinations

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Encamp, Andorra, January 18, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Sustainability and wellness will be two of the key elements of the debates at the 12th edition of the World Congress of Snow and Mountain Tourism, which this year includes, for the first time, the term wellness in its name, becoming the World Congress Snow, Mountain and Wellness Tourism and thus reflecting new trends.

The event, which will take place on March 20, 21 and 22, 2024 in Andorra, will feature more than twenty international speakers who will explore new trends in the sector, focusing on the offer of sustainable and wellness experiences.

● For the first time, the World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism includes the term wellness in the name of the event, thus becoming the World Congress of Snow, Mountain and Wellness Tourism.

● The parish of Encamp will host this 12th edition of the Congress.

This edition expects the participation of more than 350 professionals from the tourism sector. Top-level professionals and multiple institutional representatives will debate, for two days, on issues such as sustainability as the development axis of the tourism sector, tourism diversification through the appearance of tourism products that respond to the new demands of future travelers, and technological transformation with a focus on AI applied to the tourism sector.

Organized by the Government of Andorra and the Comú (city council) of Encamp, together with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Congress also has the support of the other municipalities of Andorra and of two main sponsors: Andorra Telecom as technological sponsor and Creand as financial sponsor.

Laura Mas Barrionuevo, senior consul of Encamp, the host parish of this edition, highlights the importance of hosting the Congress again at a time when the Comú is working intensely to diversify the economy, promoting investments and actions that help boost the tourism sector. “Encamp wants to be a leader in the modernization of the parish and in generating synergies between the public and private sectors to help achieve sustainable economic development.”

Jordi Torres Falcó, Minister of Tourism and Commerce of Andorra, recalls that mountain destinations must have a new perspective and innovative strategies to diversify and improve the quality and competitiveness of the tourist offer. For this reason, the Congress will propose strategies to find joint solutions that improve tourism quality. Other topics will be discussed, such as the effects and challenges generated by climate change, the global competition and the seasonality in mountain areas.

The Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Zurab Pololikashvili, highlights the importance of focusing on sustainability in mountain destinations because of their vulnerability to the impact of climate change, and the need to support the development of an annual tourism that protects natural resources and empowers local communities.

The speakers and program for this edition will be published soon on the Congress website: www.mountainlikers.com

The value of sustainiblity and wellness in the touristic offer of mountain destinations

Changes in the market have demonstrated the importance given by today’s tourists to wellness experiences when choosing a destination. For this reason, the Congress will dedicate one of the four sessions to wellness tourism. The promotion and differentiation of mountain tourism, emerging tourism products and the education and training of professionals in the sector will be the themes discussed in the three other sessions proposed by the Congress.

World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism
The Congress is an initiative of the seven Communes and the Government of Andorra, together with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), with the aim of creating a forum for permanent debate on the development and sustainability of tourism in mountain areas. It is organized every two years: the first edition was held in 1998 in Escaldes-Engordany and since then, each edition is organized in a different parish.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TINY GRENADA PACKS A BIG TOURISM PUNCH

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On a day when most of Canada, coast to coast, was gripped in polar temperatures and snow, Grenada tourism officials brought their sunny ways to a Toronto airport hotel, leaving a couple of dozen travel advisors more actively dreaming of an escape to the Caribbean Spice Island than usual, both personally and for clients.

One lucky attendee did win a trip for two to the island – with air – from the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) and luncheon co-sponsors, Blue Diamond Hotels, which opened the Royalton Grenada in March 2020 (pandemic notwithstanding).

Other attendees were made aware of a host of other agent incentives they could take advantage of, including tours when on island – including “dropping in for lunch” and a tour at The Royalton – particularly if visiting for a day from a cruise ship.

More extensive perks are available in Travel Agent Month in May and for specialists who complete the course at expert.puregrenada.com, including an annual trip for top sellers.

Blue Diamond’s Toronto-based Sr. Director of Trade Sales and Development Todd Kirlik, added, “We know who has the business, and it’s the travel trade! It all starts with you.”

“We really appreciate everything (agents) do,” echoed GTA chairman Randall Dolland, vowing, “And we will do our part to ensure your clients have an exceptional experience (in Grenada).”

Indeed, service underpins everything the GTA does, said Dolland, who enthused that the island now benefits from year-round service from Canada (four times weekly Air Canada flights in season through March 31, then once a week during the spring and summer, plus another Sunwing winter flight), and they would like to keep it that way.

“Canada is such a wonderful market for us, and we plan to spend time here and put more resources into the market,” he said. “We now have year-round air service and we are committed to growing that.

“The whole idea is that (happy) clients become ambassadors for Grenada,” he added.

St. George’s Harbour

And that shouldn’t be hard in a tropical paradise covered in rainforest and waterfalls – the “quintessence of pure nature.”

“Here you can just step back; there’s a simplicity in life that is refreshing. It’s like you breath deeply, and you imperceptibly slow down,” GTA CEO Petra Roach once remarked to Travel Industry Today in an interview.

Indeed, the greatest draw for tiny Grenada – only 33 km long – is the “closeness” visitors feel to nature, says Roach.

And while small, the island (plus neighbouring Carriacou and Petite Martinique) abounds with soft adventure activities on-island, and off, ranging from hiking and four-wheel drive excursions to paddle boarding and snorkelling/diving, the latter amongst the world’s best, featuring wrecks, real and artificial reefs, and an underwater sculpture park. And sailing and yachting are ubiquitous (with rental and charters available).

Visitors can also visit rum distilleries, chocolate factories, a spice market, and historical attractions, while festivals, like Spicemas in August, dot the calendar year-round.

The island was also named a “Culinary Capital” by The World Food Travel Association.

And the beaches! – both black and white sand varieties – and notably acclaimed Grand Anse, plus Paradise Beach, recently voted the top beach in the Caribbean by USA Today.

And put it all together, and you also have a destination big on romance, and ideal for weddings and honeymoons.

“We may be small, but we pack a big punch,” said GTA’s director of sales for Canada, Sekou Stroude.

Grenada, concluded Kirlik, “is an excellent, excellent place for our mutual clients!”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TAT Launches Thais Always Care Communication Campaign

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Bangkok, Thailand, KJanuary 17, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Sending out invitation to the world that Thailand and its people are always ready to welcome tourists with CARE, reflecting the kingdom’s renowned hospitality and warmth to visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the Tourist Police Bureau, Grab Taxi (Thailand), and Central Pattana (CPN), officially rolled out the latest “Thais Always Care” online communication campaign to ensure that tourists from around the world enjoy seamless travel experiences and feel safe and welcome in Thailand.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “The ‘Thais Always Care’ campaign is an open communication with Thais and foreign tourists, especially those from China, which has been a key source market for Thailand. We want to share with the world Thailand’s ongoing efforts to raise safety standards in the travel and tourism industry, as well as the kingdom’s endless charms as a desirable destination for tourists to come and enjoy memorable, meaningful travel experiences.”

Under the ‘Land of CARE’ concept, the ‘Thais Always Care’ campaign reflects Thailand’s renowned hospitality and warmth to visitors and strengthens the image of Thais as a good host for tourists.

CARE stands for: Compassion – reflecting the generosity of the Thai people; Assistant – referring to Thais as being a good host and are ready to help tourists when in need; Relief – indicating Thailand as a perfect holiday destination where tourists can relax and explore a wealth of enjoyable travel experiences; and Elevate – highlighting Thailand’s ongoing efforts to raise tourism and safety standards.

TAT initially unveiled the campaign in December 2023 during the high-profile press conference, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, that highlighted the commitment from 12 public agencies to work together to facilitate the anticipated millions of travellers on the move in the festive season.

BureauColonel Somchai Theerapatrpaisan, Deputy Commander of General Staff Division, Tourist Police Bureau, said “The Tourist Police is set to step up the safety and security measures in a full effort by implementing technology to assist foreign tourists. This includes using a Tourist Police mobile truck to communicate with tourists and live broadcast the situation to the bureau of the Thai Tourist Police. Also, the ‘POLICE I LERT U’ application which offers several languages such as English, Chinese, Russian, Japanese, Korean, French, German, and Arab helps connect foreign tourists with the 24-hour emergency centre 1155. This also serves as a coordinating centre for international organisations and embassies to provide immediate assistance to international tourists.”

Mr. Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, Executive Vice President, Marketing at CPN, said “CPN is poised to become a comprehensive Tourist Hub. Therefore, we have strengthened the safety measures covering the entire department store by installing CCTV cameras and implementing a strict inspection of visitors and vehicles as well as bag checking at the entrance. Also, security guards have consistently been trained to tackle the emergency and unprecedented incidents.”

Mr. Worachat Luxkanalode, Country Head of Grab Thailand, said “Safety is our top priority to us. Grab has continuously developed technology to enhance confidence as well as all steps of passengers’ experiences such as implementing a strict partner driver selection system, using an AI-Powered Facial Authentication, arranging online training for driving safely, employing real-time trip monitoring featuring GPS to track vehicle, and providing a safety centre feature to share a real-time location and provide assistance in case of emergency. We hope that these features will strengthen the traveller’s confidence and shape the impressive experience of travelling in Thailand.”

The ‘Thais Always Care’ campaign will involve bringing the leading international KOLs to enhance the positive image of Thailand’s tourism assets and soft powers as well as reinforce Thailand’s image as a safe destination. The targeted audiences are local and foreign tourists including Chinese travellers. This campaign is expected to garner 100 million impressions.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – 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