Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: Guinness set to open site in London Covent Garden

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

Guinness will soon have a new home in the heart of London. Work is underway at ‘Guinness at Old Brewer’s Yard,’ which is located near Neal Street in Covent Garden. The 4,600-sq.-metre microbrewery will build on the success of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and the opening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh in 2021.

Old Brewer’s Yard first brewed beer back in 1722. Plans for the revived venue include a central covered courtyard, open-fire kitchen, restaurant, and 360 degrees glass rooftop space, and store. Tours will be available to the public, and, of course, the chance to have a pint of the famed Irish stout.

The site will also be the Southern UK hub Guinness’s Learning for Life Bartending and Hospitality Program, with an ambition for over 100 London-based students to graduate from program.

Some features of the site will include:

• Limited edition beers and guests tours with Guinness beer specialists to taste/enjoy and learn about the iconic stout, its storied history, and ambitions for the future.

• Event spaces and central covered courtyard hosting events across food, drink, the arts, and special cultural occasions, which will be open for use by the local community.

• Guinness store selling rare items via collaborations and partnerships bespoke to the London experience.

• Chance to try new brews, some only available at ‘Guinness at Old Brewer’s Yard.’

• Rotating cuisine and events at a stunning open-fire kitchen, restaurant and 360 degrees glass rooftop space within the development.

While the venue was scheduled to open this fall, an opening date has not been announced.

Guinness Old Brewer’s Yard, interior

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:

PREVIOUS ARTICLES: https://travelindustrytoday.com/pub-patio/

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BWH Hotels Brings BW Signature Collection to Indonesia

 700 417 wttc2
By:

BWH Hotels Brings BW Signature Collection to Indonesia - HOTELWORLDS - TRAVELINDEXKampung Naga, Indonesia, November 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels has expanded its portfolio in Indonesia with the launch of Alhambra Hotel & Convention, BW Signature Collection, which puts guests in the heart of West Java’s Mount Galunggung tourist area – famed for its spectacular natural scenery, hot springs and Sundanese cultural heritage.

Nestled between the city of Tasikmalaya and the authentic village of Kampung Naga, this contemporary hotel is surrounded by rolling green landscapes and dramatic volcanic peaks. Within this stunning setting, visitors can unwind and enjoy immersive leisure breaks or stage outstanding out-of-town events, including weddings. Just three hours’ drive from Bandung, this enchanting destination is also accessible by air via Wiriadinata Airport.

A selection of 116 modern rooms and suites feature stylish interiors, comfortable king or twin beds and the latest technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. With panoramic views from every room, travelers are able to experience complete tranquility.

The hotel’s culinary concept focuses on Middle Eastern cuisine, along with traditional Sundanese, pan-Asian and international dishes, all expertly crafted by talented chefs. An extensive in-room dining menu is available 24 hours a day, so guests can enjoy a memorable meal in the comfort and privacy of their room. The Sky Rooftop Pool Bar is a great place to take a dip, sip cool drinks and grab light bites, overlooking Mount Galunggung.

Alhambra Hotel & Convention is also the perfect option for unforgettable events. With its extensive function space, including a 1,000-delegate convention hall equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, this scenic hotel sets the stage for every occasion, from large-scale conferences and business meetings to lavish weddings and social gatherings.

“Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations, with an amazing array of natural and cultural attractions for domestic and overseas visitors. Increasingly, guests are looking to explore new parts of the country and the Mount Galunggung tourist area has the potential to attract leisure travelers and meeting planners alike. Alhambra Hotel & Convention, BW Signature Collection blends authentic Indonesian charm and hospitality with the international standards of a Best Western branded hotel,” said Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

BWH Hotels is one of the leading hotel groups in Indonesia, with an extensive nationwide portfolio that now comprises 17 hotels and resorts in urban and resort areas including Jakarta, Bali, Bandung, Surabaya, Batam, Manado and more. Alhambra Hotel & Convention marks the debut of the BW Signature Collection in Indonesia.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit www.bestwesternasia.com.

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 19 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.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Ministers Summit in London – Transforming Tourism Through Education

 700 431 wttc2
By:

 

UNWTO Ministers Summit in London - Transforming Tourism Through Education - TRAVELINDEX - NATALIA BAYONALondon, United Kingdom, November 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO celebrated the biggest Ministers Summit on record as it brought tourism leaders together on the opening day of the World Travel Market in London to focus on education and skills development.

Welcoming a record 40 Ministers of Tourism, representing every global region and destinations of all sizes, UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona underscored the vital importance of investing in education.

The Summit, hosted at WTM for the 17th time, also featured inputs from key private sector players and from co-organizer the World Travel and Tourism  Council (WTTC).

Education for a better tourism

According to UNWTO with 1.2 billion people worldwide aged between 15 to 24, tourism can establish itself as a top employer of youth and driver of youth empowerment. However., according to the Office for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) around 10% of that demographic are unemployed and 14% hold only basic qualifications.

Outlining how UNWTO is leading the way in promoting tourism education, Executive Director Bayona emphasised the need to support education and skills development at every stage.

  • UNWTO launched its Education Toolkit in October 2023. The landmark resource will enable countries everywhere to introduce tourism as a high school subject.
  • The Bachelors Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management offered by UNWTO and the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts will welcome its first students in 2024.
  • Currently, 30 universities worldwide contribute content to the UNWTO Online Academy. And on the ground, the Riyadh School of Hospitality and Tourism in Saudi Arabia and the Tourism Academy in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, train thousands of tourism professionals.

Ministers share education policies

The United Kingdom’s Minister for Tourism, Sir John Whittingdale, stressed the importance of platforms like the Ministers Summit to provide a dialogue on how different countries are tackling common challenges, including advancing tourism education. With more than double the number of Ministerial-level participants than 2022 highlighting the strong interest in the topic, participants shared their insights on the place of education in the future of tourism.

  • The Ministers of South Africa, Egypt, the Philippines and Jordan all made clear the importance of supporting education at every stage. For example, South Africa has launched a tourism equity fund to bridge the gap between student skills and employer needs, and in the Philippines , tourism education extends from high school to vocational degrees. At the same time, Jordan is working to boost the abilities of tourism workers, including in language skills.
  • The Ministers from Mauritius, Malta and Indonesia stressed the vital need to upskill new and existing tourism workers. Mauritius noted that all Least Developed Countries were hit hard by the pandemic and face a challenge to boost literacy and numeracy rates, potentially with bilateral and multilateral support. For Malta, a new Skills Card will aim to elevate professional standards in the sector for better career prospects for workers and service for tourists, while Indonesia will prioritise innovation and adaptation as it creates 5 million tourism jobs in the next decade.
  • Highlighting the vital importance of education for tourism sustainability, the Minister for Colombia outlined how the sector is bringing peace, jobs and youth opportunity to areas afflicted by insecurity, while Ethiopia shared its work investing in young people as well as in tourism infrastructure.

Alongside the Ministerial voices, the private sector was represented by leaders from Riyadh Air and JTB (Japan Tourism Bureau) Corp. They echoed the Ministers’ focus on  the importance of public-private partnerships, stressing that governments need to work with businesses to ensure training meets the needs of employers.

Ministers takeaways from Summit

On the back of the expert inputs from tourism leaders from every global region, Ministers were able to take away key lessons from the London Summit. Chief among them was the shared nature of the challenges facing destinations everywhere, with a common need for more and better-skilled workers.
Concluding, UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona noted the urgent need to make tourism an aspirational sector for young people everywhere, with public-private partnerships essentially for bringing the current skills gap in the sector.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Sukhothai Bangkok Appoints New Executive Pastry Chef

 700 431 wttc2
By:

The Sukhothai Bangkok Appoints New Executive Pastry Chef - TOP25RESTAURANTS - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Frederic Legras as the Executive Pastry Chef. Chef Frederic brings over two decades of rich experience in the pastry industry, having worked with prestigious international hotel chains such as The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, Payard Patisserie & Bistro New York, Conrad Hotel Bangkok, and Le Cordon Bleu Bangkok.

Before joining The Sukhothai Bangkok, Chef Frederic held the position of co-owner at Canelé by 10, where he honed his remarkable skills and expertise in creating new recipes and organizing customized celebratory events. His vast experience and exceptional talent in pastry and event design make him a valuable addition to The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Pastry Kitchen team.

Chef Frederic Legras’ arrival at The Sukhothai Bangkok couldn’t be more timely, as he is already hard at work, revamping the Chocolate Buffet and enhancing the entire pastries selection, including an array of festive celebratory offerings that are set to surprise and delight our guests. His creative touch and innovative pastry designs promise to elevate the dining experience for both residents and visitors alike.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Frederic to The Sukhothai family,” said Alexander Schilling, General Manager of The Sukhothai Bangkok. “His expertise and dedication to delivering unique and memorable experiences align perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional service and cuisine to our esteemed guests. With his creative vision, we are excited to offer a new level of indulgence and celebration at The Sukhothai Bangkok.”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Chef Frederic Legras, and stay tuned for the exciting and delectable surprises he has in store for all our guests during this upcoming festive season and in 2024.

About The Sukhothai Bangkok
The Sukhothai Bangkok is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, renowned for its timeless elegance and commitment to providing guests with an authentic Thai experience. With a rich heritage of culinary excellence and an unwavering dedication to service, The Sukhothai Bangkok continues to be a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the vibrant capital city. Chef Frederic Legras’ appointment as Executive Pastry Chef further enhances the hotel’s reputation for excellence in cuisine and special celebrations.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Catalonia Officially Nominated World Region of Gastronomy 2025

 700 416 wttc2
By:

Catalonia Officially Nominated World Region of Gastronomy 2025 - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBarcelona, Spain, November 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Catalonia was officially awarded the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2025 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) for their commitment to work across sectors to ensure a healthy, safe and resilient food future through sustainable actions.

The award ceremony took place on 8 November 2023 in the framework of the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona, and saw the participation of Councillor for Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia, Roger Torrent i Ramió; Councillor for Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, David Mascort i Subiranas; and local stakeholders involved in the World Region of Gastronomy candidacy and programme, including President of the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition, Carles Villarubí, and Director General of Alícia Foundation, Toni Massanés.

President of IGCAT, Diane Dodd PhD officially presented the award to the regional stakeholders and applauded “the many, many people in Catalonia that have been working for decades to ensure that Catalan cuisine, culture and culinary heritage is available and relevant in the minds, hearts and stomachs of Catalan citizens. This is undoubtedly why Catalonia is such an interesting destination for foodie travellers. Well-deserved and congratulations!”

Councillor Torrent explained that with this award “we are opening up a new scenario for Catalonia and we are positioning ourselves around the world as a reference food and wine destination, generating new economic opportunities in the territory while involving different sectors, from the primary to the restaurants, through the food industry. The World Gastronomy Region title reinforces the transformation towards a more sustainable, balanced and diversified tourism model, which we are promoting through our National Commitment for Responsible Tourism.”

Councillor Mascort emphasised that “from now on we will start working to show the world that gastronomy and agriculture are two sides of the same coin,” and highlighted that “behind the kitchens that dazzle the world, there is a farming community committed to environmental, economic and social sustainability.

“We will be ambitious and we will work to set up a programme and a legacy for Catalonia. We have a unique proposal not only because of our culinary uniqueness, but also because it reflects every corner of our territory and its people,” he concluded.

Moderated by gastronomic journalist, Carme Gasull, the event was closed by a conversation with chef of Disfrutar restaurant, Oriol Castro and livestock farmer Mònica Soler, from Masiets Perich who offered their perspectives as regional stakeholders of

Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy 2025 manifesto

During the event, the Government of Catalonia launched a manifesto to which regional stakeholders and citizens can sign up in order to join and support the World Region of Gastronomy 2025 programme. The document includes a series of commitments such as (to name a few). promoting the heritage linked to gastronomy and the agri-food landscapes; promoting Catalan cuisine; opting for a change of model towards regenerative and quality food and wine tourism; promote the professionalization of the food sector; and encouraging the circular economy. The manifesto is accessible on the dedicated website together with a link for stakeholders to sign up.

New initiatives to position Catalonia as a benchmark for food and wine tourism

The event marked the starting point for the preparation of new initiatives that, throughout the coming year, will be organised across the region with the aim of highlighting food production, Catalan cuisine and Catalonia as a quality tourist destination. These include for example:

The International Week of the World Gastronomy Region, to take place in the main cities and countries hosting delegations of the Government of Catalonia, and which will include various activities such as promotions in shops or restaurants, wine tastings, cultural evenings, debates, food and wine experiences, chef exchanges, and many more.

Àpat Catalunya, a people’s dinner to be celebrated in an emblematic street or public space in Barcelona, featuring the most iconic dishes and recipes of Catalan gastronomy.

The Som Gastronomia Tour 2025, a series of presentations to be held in the main outbound markets of food and wine tourism in Catalonia, aimed at operators, the press and influencers, with a technological and innovative component.

Moreover, 130 unique Catalan landscapes and their gastronomic offer will be highlighted; activities will be organised to connect art, sport, culture and Catalan cuisine; the National Food Awards will be promoted; and an intense international agenda will be offered so that Catalonia’s farming, food companies and gastronomy can be presented across the globe.

Gastronomic Forum Barcelona: the perfect setting for Catalonia’s renewed commitment to sustainability

A point of reference for professionals in the hospitality and gastronomy sector, the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona 2023 focused on transformative cuisine and its role in preserving biodiversity and boosting social transformation.

Celebrated on 6-8 November at the Montjuïc venue of Fira Barcelona, the event included around 120 activities that involved over 200 chefs, pastry chefs, sommeliers and other experts in gastronomy. Many of them presented their initiatives supporting the use of local products, the revival of traditional techniques, and the reduction of food waste, among other urgent challenges.

Catalonia’s path to the title

In 2016, Catalonia was among the first two regions to be awarded European Region of Gastronomy by IGCAT. During that year, over 500 stakeholders in the region committed to promote Catalan gastronomy and celebrated over 500 activities related to local products, local cuisine and the territory. Eager to deepen the work started in 2016, Catalonia presented their bid for the World Region of Gastronomy 2025 title.

After evaluating the bid book Catalunya, the European Mosaic of Gastronomy, presented on 7 February 2023, a jury of international IGCAT experts visited the region (8-12 May 2023) to meet local stakeholders and assess Catalonia’s readiness to hold the World Region of Gastronomy title.

The jury was very impressed by how the legacy from Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 has reinforced the benefits of inter-sectoral working to ensure that gastronomy, culture, food production and biodiversity have a strong focus in the region. They also appreciated the detailed action plan presented by the region including projects, events and development proposals for the title year and beyond, to ensure a legacy of the Award.

On this basis, they recommended the region for the title to the IGCAT Board, that officially approved Catalonia to be awarded World Region of Gastronomy 2025.

Thanks to this title, the Catalan Government will invest 9 million euros to support a series of new initiatives and projects with the aim to position Catalonia as worldwide food and wine reference.

The Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy 2025 candidacy and programme have been created by a cross-sectoral consortium including stakeholders from the public, private, third and knowledge sectors. Founding stakeholders include: Directorate-General for Tourism (Ministry of Business and Labour, Government of Catalonia); Catalan Tourist Board; Directorate-General for Food Industries, Food Quality and Gastronomy (Ministry of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, Government of Catalonia); PRODECA; Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition; Alícia Foundation; elBUlliFoundation.

About the World and European Regions of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.

About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.

IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TRAVELLING PONO: And 3 ways to malama Hawaii

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

As Maui recovers from devastating wildfires, travelling to Hawaii for many has become more purposeful. While surf, sand and sun are definitely still on the itinerary, there are many experiences waiting for visitors that reflect the importance and meaning of life that can’t be found in all the guidebooks just yet.

In the islands – Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i, and the island of Hawaii – its called travelling “pono” (correctly), and encompasses an infinite list of enriching and meaningful travel possibilities that prescribe to another Hawaiian concept – “mālama,” or to take care of our earth, each other, and ourselves.

Here are several ways to redefine a visit to the Hawaiian Islands that equally benefit visitors, the destination, and its residents:

Give back

Native Hawaiians understand the relationship between humans and the natural world as a reciprocal one – the notion being that if people mālama the land, the land will, in turn, provide them an abundance of life and care.

With that crucial relationship firmly in mind, volunteer organizations and travel partners statewide now offer a range of opportunities for visitors to engage in mindful travel through the Mālama Hawaii initiative. Volunteer experiences range from reforestation projects and restoration of early Hawaiian structures to coastline cleanups, clearing invasive flora and more. Engaging with the land and culture during a visit leaves a positive impact and provides visitors with a more personal and deeper connection to the Islands.

Embrace culture

Many Hawaiian experiences and activities can comfort or rejuvenate one’s mind, body, and soul. For example, E ala ē, led by Hawaiian cultural practitioners at several resorts across the Islands, is a Hawaiian oli (chant) welcoming the sun’s rise from the ocean each morning and offering all who speak its words energy and a release from life’s stresses to face the day ahead.

E ala ē and other authentic cultural experiences – such as lei making workshops, hula lessons, nature walks, language lessons and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge – are led by native Hawaiian cultural ambassadors for resort guests and help reshape Hawaii’s visitor industry for the better in multiple ways.

Photo – Extreme Exposure

A large part of embracing a culture is learning about and understanding it, which can be begun at a host of museums and historic sites, including refuge and spiritual sanctuary Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and the massive stone temple of seaside Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, both on the island of Hawaii.

Don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Visit the breathtaking Olowalu Valley on Maui to help plant native plants, remove invasive species, and restore the lo‘i kalo (taro patch) at Kīpuka Olowalu. On O‘ahu visitors can learn about ecological issues affecting Maunalua Bay with community group, Mālama Maunalua, including helping members remove invasive algae threatening marine sanctuaries in the bay’s nearshore waters.

And for those interested in learning ka ‘ōlelo Hawaii (the Hawaiian language) or topics and history of the Hawaiian culture, the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association offers training programs exploring Hawaiian language, history, and cultural stories.

Get local

Another way to travel differently in Hawaii is to immerse oneself in the local food culture, diversity of small towns and interesting districts, and community festivals and events. Take time to break away from your resort area to explore and support local towns, retailers, restaurants, and more throughout the Islands.

On Kaua‘i’s south shore, Po‘ipu is a great small town packed with a variety of local restaurants and boutique shops, while in Maui, stroll through the quaint, colourful town of Pā‘ia perusing its intriguingly arty retailers, surf shops, galleries, and boutiques.

Or check out downtown Honolulu’s Chinatown district for a modern and traditional mix of restaurants and bars, small boutique shops, multiethnic foods and goods, lei makers, coffee cafés, temples, apothecary shops and more.

Hilo, Hawaii, offers one of the best spots to chat with island farmers and producers – and try their produce and food goods – at the Hilo Farmers Market. You may even discover a few things to eat you’d likely never find anywhere else in the Islands (fresh-picked jaboticaba, anyone?).

And don’t miss an even deeper dive into the communities at popular annual events and celebrations. Many of these keep elements of Hawaii’s multitude of cultures alive, such as the Paniolo Heritage Rodeo, showcasing paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) traditions; Lei Day Celebration, honouring the craft of lei (garland or necklace, often made of flowers); E Kanikapila Kākou, honouring authentic Hawaiian-style music.

Food festivals focused on Hawaii’s bounty of local produce include the annual Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, held on the islands of Maui, Hawaii, and O‘ahu; the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival; and Big Island Chocolate Festival, spotlighting Hawaii Island’s cacao and coffee industries.

To find out more about travelling pono, check out the gohawaii.com website.

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HOW TO SKIP THE CROWDS AND FIND THE REAL PORTUGAL

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

Time away is precious and no one wants to wait in line, be lost in a crowd, or stuck at a touristy eatery. In the last 10 years Portugal has burst onto the world stage as a major travel destination, but as a new destination, folks typically go to what they know: Lisbon, Lagos, and Porto.

All are worthy destinations, but just a small part of what makes Portugal so special. So, while Lisbon or Porto provide perfect starts for a trip, savvy travellers know to wander further afield to explore a country that is authentic and charming, and filled with unforgettable places with fewer lines and crowds.

And the good news is, they’re not far, and equally amazing. Here are some tips for finding the real Portugal:

Walled and wonderful

Obidos is a great escape, with its strong walls, cobbled streets, and sweet shops. But with it’s popularity comes a rush of visitors, so here’s an alternative suggestion: Castelo de Vide – called by some Portugal’s best preserved medieval town and “the Sintra of Alentejo.” The castle, surrounded by elegant houses, dominates the landscape of the foothills (banner photo). The best way to appreciate the town’s historic charm is to stroll the narrow, winding streets. The Capela do Salvador do Mundo is the oldest chapel in the region with panels of blue and white azulejos, just one of the town’s 24 churches.

Portugal also boasts many other walled towns, from Marvão to Monsaraz.

Royal options

Sintra is sensational, but there are other royal palaces too. Portugal was a monarchy from 1143 to 1910 and the kings and queens had plenty of palaces that they loved to escape to, including two not far from Lisbon in Queluz and Mafra. Meanwhile, the University of Coimbra, north of the capital, is built into a former royal palace, and the nearby castle of Leiria was built for royals.

In Alentejo region of south-central Portugal, there is a royal tour that highlights the good, the magnificent, and the struggles of being a monarch. Start in Estremoz, a royal city with impressive walls and 13th-century castle with an ancient keep that sails above the plains. Built of white and decorative marble it is free to explore (except Mondays) and part of the former palace is now a pousada (historic hotel).

The Paço Ducal de Vila Viçosa (photo below) is a huge royal palace in the royal town of Vila Viçosa. Set on a grand square, the palace is encircled by convents, churches, and a pousada. Inside, there are many public rooms built for a king, as well as a sizable armoury and a magnificent kitchen with huge ovens, wine cellars, and more copper than you have ever seen.

Paço Ducal de Vila Viçosa; Photo – Foundation of the House of Bragança

In the distance, on a high mountaintop stands the fortified town of Évora Monte, walled around a massive castle that soars above the horizon. The town is a great escape with its ancient churches, cobble stone streets, sweeping views, and many local arts and craft shops.

Young chefs, fresh ideas

Ancient but trendy, Estremoz is full of up-and-coming places to eat, run by young chefs. This marble city of some 8,000 people has become the go-to dining spot, after Évora, for a hot and emerging food scene.

Finding religion

On any given day there are lines to see some of the most popular monasteries and churches in Europe, but not far from Lisbon, significant religious sites are awaiting with no lines, and amazing stories to tell:

Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção – Designed by Francisco de Arruda in 1517 and set in Praça da República, in Elvas, the cathedral features Manueline side doors, and Baroque chancel and gilded altars finished in marble.

The Convento dos Congregados – This convent in Estremoz has a rich history starting in the 16th century when it was used as a palace. Its facade is crafted in beautiful pink marble and its tiles depict the life and miracles of Saint Philip.

Museum of Sacred Art – Opened in 2004 in Moura, the museum is located in the Church of São Pedro, a building that has magnificent 17th century tiles. Exhibitions highlight hundreds of pieces that demonstrate the religious traditions of the region.

Cathedral of Évora – Standing out for its tall silhouette in the walled city, the Basilica Sé de Nossa Senhora da Assunção is the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal. Completed by 1250, the structure is entirely in local granite, marked by the transition from the Romanesque to the Gothic style. The church has a unique crucifix called the “Father of the Christs,” which is above the painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, allegorical statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, and a spectacular organ from the Renaissance period.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel: Set in the landscapes of the Serra de São Gens, the Ermida de Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe is 1.6 km. from Serpa in central Portugal and boasts simple architecture of the Mudejar style of the Iberian Peninsula. The small refuge houses the image of the patron saint who is honoured in a great celebration for the arrival of spring, which begins at Easter and lasts for five days. The event includes processions, parades, and masses.

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Ba Na Hills Golf Club Recognized by World Luxury Travel Awards

 900 600 wttc2
By:

Ba Na Hills Golf Club Recognized by World Luxury Travel Awards - TOP25GOLFCOURSES.comDanang, Vietnam, November 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Ba Na Hills Golf Club has continued its recent hot streak by earning commendation as Global Winner in the golf category at the World Luxury Travel Awards, held in Athens last week.

With its challenging layout designed by triumphant Team Europe Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, the club is widely regarded as one of the top layouts in Vietnam and Asia.

And that reputation was reaffirmed in Greece’s capital when it was recognized as one of the continent’s most exciting golf clubs by World Luxury Travel Awards judges.

As well as being singled out at the awards ceremony, Ba Na Hills Golf Club earned prominence in October’s edition of Travel Temptations, a bespoke publication attached to the World Luxury Travel Awards.

Gary Dixon, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club, commented: “It’s always uplifting to be given recognition by a wider audience. Therefore, it’s an honour and a pleasure to be singled out by the World Luxury Travel Awards as one of the best courses in the world.”

It’s been a fantastic year for the club, a driving force in the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC), a freshly rebooted destination marketing organization that links Central Vietnam’s best signature golf layouts.

It was named among the top 11 best golf resorts in Asia in a list compiled by Golf .com, one of the world’s leading golf titles.

The latest recognition reaffirms Ba Na Hills Golf Club’s standing as Vietnam’s most decorated golf destination. This accolade also serves as a testament to the club’s exceptional quality and its ability to deliver a world-class golf experience. Managed by IMG, the club boasts an impressive, fully illuminated 18-hole championship course designed by Donald.

Ba Na Hills has garnered numerous awards over the years, and the reasons are evident. Situated at the base of a towering mountain range, just a brief 30-minute drive from the rapidly growing city of Danang in Vietnam, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a picturesque parkland-style course. The layout is intricately woven over rolling hills, offering continuous views of a lush landscape accentuated by serene streams and tranquil lakes.

“Our primary objective is to continually enhance the experience here,” added Dixon. “By consistently achieving this goal, we anticipate a continuous stream of accolades. These awards are a direct reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment and relentless effort to ensure the satisfaction and lasting delight of our guests, encouraging them to return time and time again.”

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Halong Bay Cruises to Welcome 200,000th Passenger

 900 600 wttc2
By:

Halong Bay Cruises to Welcome 200,000th Passenger - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comHalong Bay, Vietnam, November 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The five-star line behind Halong Bay’s most remarkable cruise experiences, Ambassador Cruise, is poised to usher its 200,000th passenger aboard its ‘Ambassador Cruise II’ vessel by the end of 2023.

Since its debut in February this year Ambassador Cruise II, which offers both a luxurious eight-hour day cruise followed by an exquisite four-hour dinner cruise, has welcomed up to almost 1000 guests per day during peak times.

The vessel has helped propel a tourism bonanza for Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province, attracting more than 156,000 passengers, making for 13% of the estimated 1.2 million visitors to Halong International Cruise Port from January 1 through to October 31 this year. Combined with Ambassador Cruise’s overnight cruises ‘Ambassador Cruise I’ and ‘Ambassador Signature Cruise’, it’s estimated Ambassador’s fleet will contribute to 18% of the total number of passengers to the cruise port by the end of the year.

Elegantly designed, Ambassador Cruise II features spacious sundecks across two floors that total 324sqm and 250sqm, affording 360-degree vistas of Halong Bay and its myriad limestone karsts. Two restaurants, two bars, an entertainment area for live music, and the large open-air jacuzzi are among the 45-cabin vessel’s top-notch facilities. The five-metre glass bridge jutting from the vessel’s bow inspires compelling photographs.

The 500-ton five-floor steel craft with a basement measures 90 meters long, 16 meters wide and 19 meters high, making it the largest and most luxurious ship to ever ply Halong Bay’s waters with a total of 10,000sqm of lettable space. Ambassador Cruise is the only Halong Bay cruise line to include an elevator system for the elderly and people with disabilities.

The Ambassador Cruise II’s daytime voyage, known as ‘Ambassador Day Cruise’, takes passengers on a sublime journey through the UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its plethora of limestone karsts dotting its emerald waters.

The itinerary includes exploration of Sung Sot Cave and swimming off Titov Island, whose scalable heights offer panoramic views of the bay. Passengers take in Luon Cave by either kayak or in a bamboo boat rowed by a local followed by a cooking class and Filipino DJ onboard.

Designed for travellers who cannot squeeze an overnight trip to Halong Bay into their schedules, the itinerary covers the same ground as an overnight cruise within a shorter time frame.

By night, Ambassador Cruise II transforms into the ‘Ambassador Dinner Cruise’. A first for the bay, the cruise is underpinned by premium dining and live entertainment. To a backdrop of Halong Bay’s awe-inspiring sunset, guests indulge a delectable meal of Asian and European delicacies accompanied by a cabaret show, performances by Vietnamese singers and a live band.

“Welcoming our 200,000th passenger aboard Ambassador Cruise II in such a short time is a major milestone and testament to how we have redefined cruising Halong Bay; by pioneering a luxurious day cruise and dinner cruise, we have played a notable part in expanding Quang Ninh’s tourism industry post-COVID,” said Nguyen Cao Son, chairman of Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation, which owns Ambassador Cruise. “Attracting more than 69,000 passengers from January 1 until October 31 this year, our dinner cruise alone contributed to 70% of the total number of passengers to the Halong International Cruise Port in the evening amid a total of four cruise operators.”

To celebrate the 200,000th passenger, Ambassador Cruise II will hold a small party aboard with all of the cruise’s guests, and distribute dinner vouchers as a lucky draw present during a mini game. The 200,000th passenger will be presented with a gift voucher of two tickets to attend a liveshow on Ambassador Dinner Cruise.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Wins Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand Award at TTG Travel Awards 2023

 1080 720 wttc2
By:

Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Wins Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand Award at TTG Travel Awards 2023 - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comCourtyard by Marriott Bangkok proudly announces its victory after the 32nd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2023, held in Bangkok. The hotel has been honored with the prestigious title of “Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand” by TTG Asia, TTG China, TTG India, TTGmice, TTG-BTmice China, TTG associations, and TTG Asia Luxury.

The award was presented to Mr. Joshua Lee, the hotel’s General Manager, during a splendid awards ceremony held in Bangkok. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok is thrilled to receive this accolade, reaffirming its commitment to providing exceptional mid-range hospitality experiences. The hotel prides itself on its dedication to service excellence, comfort, and memorable guest experiences.

The TTG Travel Awards, established in 1989, has been an esteemed platform for recognizing excellence within the Asia-Pacific travel industry. This annual event distinguishes outstanding organizations and individuals across three categories: Travel Supplier, Travel Agency, and Outstanding Achievement. The event is proudly organized by TTG Asia, with strong support from TTG China, TTG India, TTGmice, TTG-BTmice China, TTG associations, and TTG Asia Luxury.

About Courtyard by Marriott® Bangkok

Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok is the inaugural Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Thailand. Nestled in the tranquil heart of Bangkok’s CBD, this multi-award-winning hotel establishment offers an exceptional location just steps away from Ratchadamri and Chit Lom BTS Skytrain stations, providing unmatched access to the city’s premier shopping, corporate districts, entertainment, and culinary treasures. This 4-star hotel, tailored for all travelers, boasts 314 guestrooms and 2 suites, all designed for spacious and stylish comfort. From the culinary delights of MoMo Café and MoMo Bar to poolside relaxation, spa pampering, and a fully-equipped fitness center, catering to every desire. Whether meetings or events will be held in state-of-the-art venues complete with advanced AV technology, a commitment to sustainability, and gracious hospitality to ensure that every stay is an unforgettable experience.

About Courtyard by Marriott®
Courtyard by Marriott is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With over 1,285 locations in 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travelers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests are able to work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News