Global Travel News

Exploring the World of Dusit International: A Transformative Educational Visit

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Exploring the World of Dusit International: A Transformative Educational Visit - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comRecently, A group of fourth-year students of Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s leading higher education in hospitality businesses under Dusit International, enjoyed a unique opportunity to delve into the inner workings of Dusit International, gaining invaluable insights from the esteemed management team.

The visit commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, the Group Chief Executive Officer, whose inspirational speech provided a visionary outlook on the hospitality industry for budding hoteliers.

Following this, Mr. Siradej Donavanik, the Vice President of Hotel Business Development, generously shared his expertise on hotel management business development, offering a comprehensive understanding of Dusit International’s overall status and strategies. This exposure proved instrumental in acquainting the students with the fundamental principles of organizational operations within the service sector.

Mr. Gilles Cretallaz, the Chief Operating Officer, further enriched the students’ experience by providing a global perspective on Dusit Hotels, including insights into the hotel pipeline and the innovative concept of ASAI hotels. He expressed anticipation for the emergence of a new generation of Dusit Thani students within the global realm of Dusit properties.

A standout moment during the visit involved Ms. Seetala Allison Belle, the Director of Content Culture and Strategy at Dusit Digital Lab, the group’s latest department. Ms. Seetala shared Dusit International’s innovative approach to reaching customers anytime, anywhere, and through any format. This new strategy, focused on enhancing customer engagement, left a lasting impression on the students, providing them with insights into the cutting-edge strategies employed by Dusit International to connect with their target audience.

The visit concluded with an exploration of various departments and a comprehensive tour of the offices. This hands-on experience provided students with a profound understanding of the systems and operations at Dusit International, enriching their knowledge of the industry.

Special thanks were extended to Ms. Chitpapong Tipparat, Corporate Director of Learning & Development, and her dedicated team for the successful organization of this enlightening field trip. The knowledge and in-depth information acquired during this visit are anticipated to significantly benefit the students in their future careers in hotel management, enhancing their readiness for internships and providing a clearer vision for their professional paths ahead.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Experience the Magic of the Festive Season at Tuxedo Espresso Bar

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Experience the Magic of the Festive Season at Tuxedo Espresso Bar - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comTuxedo Espresso Bar at Carlton Bangkok Sukhumvit is delighted to invite you to indulge in the enchanting flavors of the holiday season with a mouthwatering array of Christmas treats.

Magical Festive Afternoon Tea
Join us for a delightful afternoon filled with holiday cheer and delectable treats. Our Festive Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to celebrate the season with your family and friends.

THB 1,380++ for two persons
THB 1,780++ for two persons, which includes two glasses of bubbles
Menu: qrco.de/bcVIca
Available from 1 November to 3 January, between 12:00 pm and 4:30 pm.

Joyful Festive Treats
Make this festive season enchanting with delectable delights from Tuxedo Espresso Bar.

• Christmas Log Cake (THB 250++)
• Gingerbread & Amaretto Chocolate Tart (THB 260++)
• Classic Stollen (THB 280++)
• Strawberry Shot Cake (THB 280++)
• Christmas Mixed Fruit Cake (THB 290++)
• Red Bûche de Noël with Berries (THB 290++)

Available from 13 November to 3 January

Cheese & Cold Cut Tower
Indulge in the flavors of our Cheese & Cold Cut Tower. Designed for sharing, each set features an assortment of cold cuts, cheeses, and condiments.

THB 760++
Available from 1 November to 3 January, between 11:30 am and 9:00 pm.

Festive Cocktails Delights
Cheers to the festive season celebration with specially crafted cocktails!
• Baileys Martini
• Ms. Posy
• Berry Smash
THB 430++ per glass
Available from 1 November to 3 January

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BACK IN BLACK II: Updated Black Friday travel offers

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Friday – Black Friday – is now considered the biggest shopping day of the year (ahead of Boxing Day), and it’s hard to find a travel supplier that isn’t eager to try to make the most of the extravaganza. Last week, we published of some of this year’s best travel deals – some having offered pre-access to travel advisors; here’s an updated list with more offers, all in displayed in a (no pun) one-stop shop.

Expedia TAAP (NEW)

Expedia Group has announced its biggest Expedia TAAP sales event of the year, having negotiated at least 30% off thousands of hotels worldwide. The Black Friday deals apply to bookings made by Nov. 29, and are valid for travel through Dec. 31, 2024.

Air Canada/ACV (NEW)

The airline’s two-in-one Black Friday offers savings on destinations worldwide, plus a share of 50 million Aeroplan bonus points. Through Nov. 26.

Meanwhile, Air Canada Vacations clients can save up to 40% on select vacation packages to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America; and select Flight & Hotel packages to Hawaii, Orlando, California, Las Vegas, and more. Travel window is Feb. 1 to April 30, 2024.

Westjet (NEW)

 When booking by Nov. 26 (for travel by June 20, 2024), WestJet passengers will find various flights on sale for less than $99 (while supplies last).

 Sunwing (NEW)

Sunwing Vacations’ Black Friday Sale offers clients up to $1,500 in savings per pair on hundreds of all-inclusive vacations across its southern destinations. Bookings must be made by Nov. 26 for travel between Dec. 14 and April 30, 2024. Some terms and conditions.

Transat

Transat and Air Transat’s Black Friday mega sale (started Nov. 14) features up to $1,000 off packages for two people and up to 100,000 roundtrip flights on sale. The sale applies to flights to Europe, the South, the US and elsewhere in Canada, as well as South and Europe packages. The offer is valid on individual bookings made by Nov. 26 for travel before June 30, 2024. Conditions apply. Sample rates include the Grand Muthu Cayo Santa Maria 4* (Santa Clara, Cuba) starting at $899 (from Ontario) and flights to Orlando starting at $297 from Montreal or $335 from Quebec City. Plus, travel advisors get 5X BONBON per booking, which means $5 per flight and $25 per package.

Contiki (NEW)

Contiki is celebrating the cyber holidays with savings of up to 25% off on 60-plus trips across six continents. On-sale trips include over CAD$500 off the brand-new South Korean Soul tour and the latest Africa addition, the Sea, Safari and South Africa trip, plus adventures such as the European Discovery and Italian Escape. The sale ends Nov. 30.

Insight Vacations (NEW)

From Morrocco to Central Europe, savings of up to 15% off on select 2024 itineraries are available when booked by Dec. 5. See the web site for qualifying itineraries.

Costsaver (NEW)

Costsaver is offering up to 15% off a selection of 2024 itineraries across the world when booked now through Dec. 5. More details are available on the Costsaver web site.

Trafalgar (NEW)

Check the tour operator’s web site for Black Friday travel deals available through Dec. 5.

Brendan Vacations (NEW)

Celtic travel specialists Brendan Vacations are offing clients a bonus of US$250 off p.p. for Private Chauffeur and Lux Self Drive trips or US$200 off p.p. on Self Drive and Locally Hosted Rail experiences, as well as 10% off of all guided itineraries. Through Dec. 5.

G Adventures

The tour operator’s month-long Cyber Sale continues until Nov. 30 with up to 30% off departures through the end of April, 2024.

 Collette (NEW)

Collette’s Black Friday sale, featuring 20% off, continues through Nov. 28 for travel in 2024 until April 20, 2025. Use offer code TRAVEL2023. A special focus has been places on Switzerland with travellers able to save up to 15% and receive a $150 gift card when booking departures for dates ranging from June 1 through 31 Aug. 31 2024, on either “Discover Switzerland, Austria, & Bavaria” or “Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks.”

Globus family of bands

The Globus family of brands unveiled ‘12 days of Black Friday’ deals with over a dozen ways to find “big savings” on vacations. Globus deals include up to $1,300/couple on tours while, Avalon Waterways also offers include $700 off, plus free air and gratuities on select cruises. Booking deadlines vary but are generally Nov. 28 for Globus and the end of the year for Avalon. Check the website.

Intrepid

Client can save up to 20% on trips to more than 100 destinations when booked between Nov. 20 and Dec. 4.

Rocky Mountaineer

A first-ever Black Friday sale from Rocky Mountaineer offers couples up to $2,000 off on US routes and $1,500 on Canadian ones, for travel dates of six or more nights in 2024. Visit rockymountaineer.com/promotions for details. The offer is in effect until Dec. 4.

HOTELS & RESORTS

Club Med

Club Med (NEW)

Up to 50% off upcoming winter, spring, or summer getaways at Club Med resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada are available when booked through Nov. 29. The deal includes 50% off Deluxe and Suite Rooms and additional perks include $500 Instant Credit and free stays for kids under 4.

Aqua-Aston Hospitality (NEW)

Clients can save 20% off at Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s 25-plus properties on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii Island, such as Aston Kaanapali Shores, Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, Aston at the Whaler on Kaanapali Beach and more. The sale is in effect through Nov. 28 for travel by Dec. 20. Use promo code CYBERSALE.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts

Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ Black Friday Sale offers savings of up to 70% and $1,000 in resort credits on stays at properties in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Belize. Available for booking through Dec. 7 for travel all the way through Jan. 2, 2026, brands and hotels include Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts (photo below), Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resorts, Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize, Azul Beach Resorts, and Karisma Villas. Karisma Insider members can also revel in additional discounts.

Viva Resorts by Wyndham

Viva Resorts by Wyndham’s Black Friday/Cyber Week features a ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ offer enabling a second guest stays for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult, based on double occupancy. The offer is valid at participating Viva Resorts by Wyndham for travel throughout the entire year of 2024. (Excludes Viva Dominicus Beach Wyndham and Viva Dominicus Palace Wyndham).

Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts rings in the holiday season Black Friday savings of up to 20% off at Royalton Luxury Resorts, Royalton CHIC Resorts, Hideaway at Royalton Resorts, Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts and Mystique by Royalton brands. Bookings must be made by Dec. 1 for travel through Dec. 23.

West Hollywood hotels (NEW)

Over a dozen hotels in West Hollywood, Ca., are offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. For a list a participating venues and offers, click HERE.

www.visitwesthollywood.com/offer/black-friday-cyber-monday-hotel-deals/ 

NoMo SoHo, NYC (NEW)

Located in the heart of New York City’s SoHo neighbourhood, NoMo SoHo’s is offering 30% off room rates for stays until Dec. 31, 2024, when booked by Dec. 1.  To book, sign up for NoMo SoHo’s newsletter at www.nomosoho.com/subscribe/ .

Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas (NEW)

Atlantis Paradise Island has a Cyber Week Sale offering guests a 5th Night Free (20% savings on 5-plus) plus a US$250 Resort Credit per stay when booked by Dec. 1 for stays from Jan. 2 through Nov. 30, 2024. Guests can save even more when adding on the Beverage or Marine Adventure Experience Credits to their reservations. For every $100 purchased, an additional $20 is added.

CRUISE

Cunard (NEW)

New voyage bookings on all of Cunard’s Queens – flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and their newest ship launching in May, Queen Anne – through Dec. 4 will qualify for 40% off, plus an onboard credit up to $1,000 per stateroom. Various itineraries include the brand’s signature Transatlantic Crossing, plus Alaska, the Norwegian Fjords, and more.

Virgin Voyages (NEW)

Through Nov. 30, VV’S Black Friday-Cyber Monday-Travel Tuesday offer gives travellers 30% off all voyages until the end of 2024 plus a bar tab of US$600 for sailings of 7-plus nights, $300 for sailings 4-6 nights or $125 for sailings 3 nights or less.

European Waterways (NEW)

The Black Friday Special gives 25% off on whole boat charters on two of EW’s popular hotel barge cruises in France. The specials are good for the April 7, 2024, departure of the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque in Burgundy and the March 31, 2024, departure of the eight-passenger Enchanté on the Canal du Midi. The Black Friday Special is valid only when booked between Nov. 24 and Dec. 1, 2023, and subject to availability.

NCL

Touted as its best deal of the year, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Black Friday Sale provides travellers 50% off all cruises on all ships, including the recently announced Norwegian Aqua, which makes its debut in 2025. In addition, the promotion can be combined with the Company’s ‘Free at Sea’ where travelers can choose up to six free perks including: unlimited open bar, roundtrip airfare for the second guest, specialty dining, shore excursion credits, Wi-Fi, and discounted rates for the 3rd and 4th guest

Quark Expeditions

Polar adventure specialist Quark Expeditions’ Black Friday Sale is in effect through Nov. 27 and offers up to 50% on select Antarctic 2023/24 voyages and 40% on Arctic 2024 voyages. An additional 10% savings on Arctic 24 and Antarctic 24/25 voyages is available for clients paying in full at time of booking. Other sales features include a free cabin upgrade on select Antarctic 24/25 departures, and up to 30% on all other seasons. Remaining births for the voyages are expected to sell out fast.

American Queen Voyages

AQV travellers can save up to US$2,500 per stateroom plus receive roundtrip air on select 2024 voyages when sailing on American Queen, American Countess and American Empress on the Lower Mississippi, Upper Mississippi, Ohio, Snake and Columbia rivers. Deals, available through Nov. 27 for select 2024 voyages, can be found on the special offers page at aqvoyages.com.

Le Boat

Le Boat, a leading provider of private, boating experiences, is offering Black Friday savings of up to 25% on France boat rental vacations and 20% on Canadian rentals (Rideau Canal, Trent-Severan Waterway). Applicable to new rentals of seven or more nights with travel dates in 2024, the offer must be booked by Nov. 28. Visit www.leboat.com/deals.

 Oceania Cruises

Dubbed its ‘Best-Ever Black Friday Sale,’ Oceania Cruises is offering savings of up to US$5,400 per stateroom on more than 100 global voyages in 2024.  The limited-time offer is valid on bookings made by Dec. 5. Itineraries range from seven to 34 days across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America.

Variety Cruises

Boutique cruise company Variety Cruises’ Black Friday sales offers discounts up to 60% or no SGL supplement, valid on select itineraries in the Seychelles, Tahiti, Cape Verde, West Africa, and Greece. Use the code “2023 BLACK FRIDAY” when emailing requests to reservations@varietycruises.com.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok’s First INNSiDE Hotel Partners with Art Story on Immersive Exhibit

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Bangkok’s First INNSiDE Hotel Partners with Art Story on Immersive Exhibit - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 23, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX /  INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the newest hotel to grace Bangkok’s skyline, is cementing its position as a cultural hub through a collaboration with Art Story by autistic Thai. The local social enterprise that highlights the work of autistic artists and the new hotel, with a mission to spark curiosity, launched “The Colors & Texture of INNSiDE: Through My Eyes” this week. The limited-time exhibition is the result of a hands-on grand opening celebration “Meet Bangkok from the INNSiDE” that involved guests completing the artwork.

The art exhibition is open to hotel guests and the general public in the 32nd floor lobby until December 31st 2023.

The vibrant paintings are inspired by local Thai culture, traditions and each artists’ reflection and interpretation of questions posed to them while practicing their craft with Art Story.

“Just as our hotel has integrated with the fabric of this thriving city, the art on display will be integrated into our hotel’s atmosphere,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. “We want our guests to feel the harmony between being the observer and the architectural identity of the hotel.”

Of the ten pieces on display, three were completed at the grand opening event where guests were invited to lend a hand (and a brush) to create the final version. The seven pieces, completed by individual artists, are each distinct with paintings ranging from Buddha statues to elements of nature, such as flowers displayed on an altar and lion imagery in traditional Thai-style.

Under the umbrella of the Autistic Foundation, Art Story uses art as a therapeutic and inspirational tool to promote self-development of each individual artist and promote uniqueness as a strength. The foundation also strives for more inclusivity in society for exceptional individuals. INNSiDE by Melia Bangkok Sukhumvit will help raise funds for the foundation through the use of QR codes next to each piece of art. Visitors who wish to own the paintings or items inspired by the paintings can purchase directly through the codes with the money going straight to the foundation.

Reaching 34 floors, the INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is Thailand’s first ‘INNSiDE by Meliá’ hotel and the fourth Meliá Hotels International property to debut in the kingdom. In addition to the vast 32nd floor co-working space and five playful meeting rooms, the lifestyle hotel has three diverse food and beverage outlets and an awe-inspiring infinity pool on the top floor with an expansive rooftop terrace that evokes an Ibiza mood. The Giant Swing Pool Bar features a compelling contemporary interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing making for a dramatic photo backdrop. The hotel offers a 24-hour Infit Gym and concierge service. Its range of sustainability efforts include a ban on single-use plastic, recycled glass bottles for drinking water and biodegradable takeaway boxes, in-room paper and plastic free collaterals and complimentary organic amenities.

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is the second INNSiDE property to open this year in Asia, joining INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras which opened in March. There are currently 38 INNSiDE hotels spread across the globe.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has a portfolio of more than 400 hotels (portfolio and pipeline), throughout more than 40 countries, and 10 brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Affiliated by Meliá. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company worldwide, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, and it is also a “Top Employer 2023” brand in Spain, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Italy and Germany. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market. 

About INNSiDE by Meliá
INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds and fluid lives. Always true to their destination, they give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community of like-minded travellers.

INNSiDE provides guests with all the everyday essentials and extra-special details to make their stay all the more unique. From in-room comforts to the inspiring Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, we allow guests to feel more-than-at-home.

Sustainability is also packed into all the little details: every room is equipped with paper and plastic-free collateral and complimentary organic cosmetics. INNSiDE celebrates the culture of each of its locations with an events calendar, handy city guides for guests, and by spotlighting a local artist’s work across the hotel walls and onto merchandise and staff uniforms.

There are currently 38 INNSiDE by Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the best lifestyle neighbourhood travel destinations. Some of them are Spain (Madrid, Mallorca, Ibiza, Fuerteventura, Zaragoza), United Kingdom (Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester), United States (New York, Lima), Germany (Berlin, Bremen, Frankfurt, Munich, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Leipzig, Hamburg) Czech Republic (Prague), France (Paris), Italy (Milano), China (Zhengzhou), Indonesia (Yogyakarta), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) and Netherlands (Amsterdam).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Spice Garden, Celebrated Vietnamese Restaurant, Relaunches at Metropole Hanoi

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Spice Garden, Celebrated Vietnamese Restaurant, Relaunches at Metropole Hanoi - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comSpice Garden, the renowned Vietnamese restaurant at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, has relaunched following an inspired refurbishment.

The restaurant, known for its traditional Vietnamese favorites and modern interpretations of fine Vietnamese cuisine, marked a soft reopening from early August with a new menu spotlighting à la minute preparation, meaning freshly made to order, in contrast to the buffet dining that was formerly on offer.

“In a country celebrated worldwide for its extraordinary cuisine, we are thrilled to offer diners our special take on Vietnamese culinary tradition redefined with French flair. With the relaunch of Spice Garden, foodies have a new ‘must-try’ dining experience in Vietnam’s capital,” said George Koumendakos, the General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Authentic dishes are served in individual portions or shared family-style and the menu represents all of Vietnam, with a focus that extends well beyond the northern regions. The use of the freshest, highest-quality seasonal ingredients sourced from top suppliers, along with sustainable and organic produce and subtle spices, ensure an upscale dining experience.

Highlights on the new menu include Deep-Fried Rice Paper Spring Rolls, made with prawn and flower crab, served with fish sauce and herbs; Crispy Stuffed Pigeon, featuring pigeon stuffed with young rice, minced pork belly and five spices; and Tiger Prawns with Salted Egg, with wok-fried prawns, salted egg sauce and crispy panko crumbs.

Recommended drinks on the new menu include Lotus Flower Tea with a light gold color, flowery flavor and a light finish, and the Herbs cocktail, made with Royal Sedang gin, Thai basil and purple shiso.

The interior of Spice Garden has been refreshed to create a more intimate space with plenty of natural light, as well as locally produced linens, handcrafted pottery, natural fabrics in earth tones and all-new cutlery, dishes, glasses and more. The service approach is elevated and bespoke, with plating techniques that tend toward modern presentations.

The restaurant artfully combines an ambiance of cozy luxury and comfort with authentic Vietnamese touches. It’s more than a dining experience; it’s a celebration of the artistry and warmth that define Vietnamese hospitality.

Other highlights at the new Spice Garden:

  • Two private dining rooms are available for more intimate dining experiences.
  • An enhanced selection of Vietnamese teas and Vietnamese spirits is on offer.

Formerly known as Spices Garden, the venue is now simply known as Spice Garden. The outlet closed for refurbishment during the pandemic and has long been a celebrated destination for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi.

For more information about the reopening of Spice Garden, or to make a reservation, please contact Tel: 024 3826 6919 ext. 8200

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

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

The hotel includes 364 rooms that are divided into two wings – the historical Metropole Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

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

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND

Sofitel Legend is an illustrious selection of heritage luxury hotels where the best of past and present converge. Set within beautiful and culturally rich destinations, each legendary retreat is both timeless and elegant, delivering lavish settings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts matched with impeccable service for the ultimate luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels entice worldly travelers who are all drawn to these beloved places of grandeur for their storied past, architectural beauty, sweeping vistas and enchanting ambience. Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of approximately 5,500 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries,

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wellness Excursions at Hotels Around Asia

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Wellness Excursions at Hotels Around Asia - TOP25SPAS.comFinding Stillness in Vietnam with Mindful Experiences in Sacred & Cultural Sites

A holistic resort in Da Nang is taking wellbeing out of its wellness center through a handful of curated experiences for mind, body, and soul at nearby points of spiritual and cultural significance. TIA Wellness Resort, situated along Da Nang’s picturesque coastline, has drawn on its four core wellness pillars to reimagine excursions to local sites, bringing in a wellness twist. These include: Breathe – a meditation practice at Linh Ung Pagoda and the towering Lady Buddha statue; Flow – a hike in the sacred Marble Mountains and Tai Chi by the tranquil caves up top; Nourish – An organic village excursion and healthy cooking class, and Create – A traditional and mindful Vietnamese calligraphy experience. Each TIA tour is from VND 1,500,000++ per person and they are offered daily, subject to availability.

Wash Away Negativity with a Water Purification Ceremony in Bali

Melukat, the water purification ceremony, is a core element of Balinese life. This ritual is for the Balinese what confession is for the Catholics. For visitors it’s a chance to explore the spiritual side of the Island of the Gods with a cleansing ritual believed to wash away bad spirits and purify the body and soul. Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, guides guests through the process, assisting them with the correct attire (a Balinese Kebaya and sarong) and then performing the ceremony within the sacred temple grounds within the resort. Guests are guided through the purification ritual by a local priest and accompanied by their butler. Prices start at IDR 650,000 ++ per person with a minimum booking of two persons.

Take in Tokyo by water, bike or foot with guided city jogging and kayaking tours

The five kilometer moatside run alongside the Imperial Palace gardens has garnered a reputation as the one must-do run in Japan’s capital and while active guests at Palace Hotel Tokyo don’t need to venture far to enjoy this picturesque route, it’s always nice to have some company. Through the hotel’s limited-time “Sustainable Tokyo” package that encourages guests to engage with the city in a more eco-conscious manner, visitors can book a privately guided, two-hour jogging tour or three-hour cycling tour around the iconic Imperial Palace running route, as well as several other areas of the city. Looking for a more novel way to take in Tokyo? Another option through the hotel is a private 90-minute kayaking excursion along the Sumida River, revealing Tokyo’s origins as a city borne of water.

Breathe in the Forest around Krabi, Thailand

With a bountiful and beautiful variety of flora and fauna in adjoining Khao Ngon Nak National Park, including a panoramic viewpoint offering stunning views of the surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea, Banyan Tree Krabi is the ideal jumping-off point for for a hike up Naga Mountain. Banyan Tree’s half-day Forest Bathing walking tour includes ample time for birdwatching, soothing your feet in a waterfall pool, and wallowing in the tranquility and splendor of a tropical forest. “Leave your phone in the villa for one morning and come with us into the forest,” said Sustainability Manager Thepsuda Loijiw.” It’s suitable for all ages, and you’ll never regret spending time with Mother Nature.” The national park is open from 5am to 2pm every day. For bookings, contact Thepsuda and her team at +66 75 811 888.

Take ‘A Day for Yourself’ on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula

Alma resort’s new excursion, “A Day for Yourself,” offers guests a daylong combined wellness and cultural immersion. The tour, provided by local partner Zazen Travel, includes a visit to a popular wellness destination in southern Vietnam that is renowned for its healing mud bath and revitalizing hot spring with Chinese herbs. The tour also includes a relaxing and invigorating massage. The day continues with a visit to the famous Truong Son Handicraft Village, where guests can see – and buy, if they see something that strikes their fancy – artworks by skilled local artisans. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. The day concludes at a healthy fresh fruit shop where guests can sample exotic tropical fruits including durian, mangoes and more.

Renowned Wellness Resort in Central Vietnam Offers Excursions into Nature

Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, known for its healthy dining and multi-day wellbeing retreats in central Vietnam, recently introduced a new “Healing Yourself Retreat,” with 4-day and 6-day options, encouraging guests to spend meaningful time in nature, nurturing their mind, body and soul. The retreat includes a soak in a natural hot spring and Japanese onsen baths, in addition to adventure activities such as a zipline and high-wire course. Excursions into the surrounding forest include hiking, bicycling and a rejuvenating session of forest bathing — taking in fresh air and the wonders of nature. The package also includes mindful yoga sessions, meditation (including water meditation, walking meditation, chakra healing meditation and rainbow shower meditation) and qigong, in addition to special spa treatments.

Journey to a Sustainable Organic Farm in Chiang Mai Promotes Healthy Eating

Meliá Chiang Mai ushers guests onto a nearby 250-acre gourmet organic farm, to meet local farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthy eating. Under the hotel’s ‘360° Cuisine’ program its kitchen works closely with SEED Sustainable Farm in San Sai District, sourcing ‘farm to plate’ organic produce that travels only a short distance before ‘plate to farm’ food waste returns to the farm as fertilizer. To learn more about the journey their food has made, as well as who has been a part of that journey, guests are encouraged to embark on a day trip to the scenic farm that includes a picnic lunch. Participants have the chance to feed the animals, walk through the farm with a guide to learn about the cultivation of Meliá Chiang Mai’s fruits, vegetables and herbs as well as SEED’s Pharm traditional herbal medicine garden, and rummage through a garden maze. The ‘Melia Farm 360 Degrees Journey’ is priced at THB 3,000 for two people inclusive of the farm experience, picnic lunch and round-trip transfer from Meliá Chiang Mai to the farm.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL: Amex’s top 10 travel destination for 2024

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With Amex’s 2023 Global Travel Trends reporting that 86% of Canadians want to travel to a place they’ve never been before and 73% wanting to explore lesser-known destinations, American Express Travel’s just-released 2024 trending report leans into the non-traditional, going beyond well-known vacation spots to uncover hidden gems and new experiences that travellers, particularly Millennials and Gen-Z, are looking for.

The Trending Destinations list features 10 vacation spots based on global American Express Cardmember travel bookings plus recommendations from Amex Travel’s team of 6,000 travel consultants.

“People are looking for new experiences and to immerse themselves in the local culture when they travel,” says American Express Travel President Audrey Hendley. “Whether you crave a new adventure or just want to beat the crowds, this list is a great place for every type of traveller to find their next vacation destination.

The Trending Destinations list offers a trip for all kinds of travellers. For example:

• Adelaide Hills, Australia for an Australian rural retreat (instead of popular destination: Blue Mountains, Australia)

• Bodrum, Turkey for bustling bazaars, fresh seafood, active nightlife, and beaches on the sparkling blue Aegean (instead of popular destination: Istanbul, Turkey)

• Porto Cervo, Italy for celebrity glamour and mouth-watering cuisine (instead of popular destination: Amalfi Coast, Italy)

• St. Kitts and Nevis for sparkling seas, friendly locals, and historic culture (instead of popular destinations: St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands)

• Niseko, Japan for an unforgettable winter sports experience (instead of popular destination: Sapporo, Japan)

• San Miguel de Allende, Mexico for beautiful scenery and vibrant food and culture (instead of popular destination: Riviera Maya, Mexico)

• Santa Fe, New Mexico for a blend of American Southwest culture, history, and natural beauty (instead of popular destination: Sedona, Arizona)

• Seychelles for paradise, along with expansive biodiversity and multicultural vibrancy (instead of popular destination: Maldives)

• Udaipur, India for an uber-romantic city of lakes and palaces (instead of popular destination: Agra, India)

• Zermatt, Switzerland for picturesque skiing with a charming feel (instead of popular destination: Dolomites, Italy)

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IT’S NOT US, IT’S YOU!: Agents feel the love from Cuba at Toronto gala

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The Cuba Tourist Board thanked its agent partners for helping make Canada the country’s No. 1 market at a gala event late last week at Toronto’s Palais Royale – a glittering venue that Canadian tourist board director Lessner Gomez likened to Havana’s famed Tropicana cabaret, even if the weather outside wasn’t quite the same as on the Caribbean island.

“It’s all about you,” declared Nieves Ricardo CTB’s Canadian office to the audience of approximately 250 agents, who were treated to dinner, entertainment – including dancers and lively salsa band (just like the Tropicana) – and mini trade show featuring a dozen suppliers, including major Canadian tour operators and island hotels. “We are very grateful for your partnership and all you do to support us,” she added.

And that includes helping put Cuba on pace to reach the magic million mark in Canadian visitors in 2023, with Gomez reporting that the nearly 750,000 of us had visited through the end of October – comprising 38% of total arrivals in the island (1,973,083) this year – and a 200% increase over last year.

“Canada is the No. 1,” he enthused, adding, “Canadians are drawn by Cuba’s layback charm, the friendliness of its people and its pristine beaches,” and adding that typical Canadian visitor to Cuba generally lacks pretense, is culturally immersive, and often has a higher income than generally given credit for.

Canada’s impressive arrivals numbers are being helped, Gomez said, by increased airline capacity (12%) from this country, comprising over 5,000 flights from 21 Canadian getaways to the most popular destinations in Cuba, including Manzanillo and Cienfuegos with new flights from Sunwing.

Karen Puebla, Nieves Ricardo, and Lessner Gomez of CTB Canada

He added that Cuba’s tourist infrastructure continues to advance with an expansive network of modern hotels, among them several new and renovated properties:

• Cayo Paredon: Gran Aston Cayo Paredon Hotel and Vila Gale, the latter managed by a Portuguese hotel chain new to Cuba.

• Cayo Cruz: Marina Plaza and Spa Hotel, not an all-inclusive hotel, but ideal for long stays.

• Cayo Santa Maria: The One Gallery hotel, focused on Cuban art and culture, along with an robust entertainment program and facilities. The hotel is located next to the main stage in Cayo Santa Maria where nightlife activities and several major festivals take place.

• Varadero: New to Varadero, the Gran Aston Varadero Hotel

• Holguin: Sol Turquesa Beach hotel saw major renovations and is under new management by Melia Hotels

• Havana: Affilated to Melia hotels, the Sevilla Hotel has been completely upgraded; Blue Diamond Resorts has added a new property to its portfolio in the Jibacoa area: the Starfish Jibacoa (the former Villa Tropico located next to Memories Jibacoa) has also seen a complete makeover.

• Trinidad: The most recent opening is the Melia Peninsula Trinidad hotel, an all-inclusive hotel located at Ancon Beach, 20 minutes from the city of Trinidad, a world heritage site and one of the most charming colonial towns in Cuba.

Gomez noted that while WiFi is available and free at all hotels in Cuba, the government’s current goal is to improve the quality of the connectivity by setting up a fiber optic service (which in certain areas is already installed) – a project expected to be completed by the end of 2024.

Dancers

He adds that all airports in Cuba have internet access, and the next step is to have WiFi service on catamaran tours and tourist buses so that tourists can share their experiences while on vacation.

The director acknowledged ongoing supply chain challenges in Cuba that sometimes result in shortages of certain products (such as ketchup in hotels), but he noted that the situation is improving thanks to increased cargo from Canada and boosting import deals directly with hotel chains.

When on-island, visitors to Cuba will find many events and festivals all year round, such as the Havana Jazz Festival, Santiago de Cuba Fire Festival, and the Havana Cigar Festival.

And no less important is the Cuba International Tourism trade fair (FITCUBA), said Gomez, which typically takes place in May and will be held next year in Cayo Coco.

And while members of the Canadian trade are invited to FITCUBA, the tourist board will also continue to support travel agents with more FAM trips to the island, says Gomez, who believes that seeing and exploring Cuba as the best way to promote learning amongst travel advisors that will help sell the destination; similarly, through the creation of the tourist board’s travel specialist program.

Cuba’s new ‘CUBA UNICA’ advertising campaign is being conducted across Canada and the message is clear, noted Gomez, concluding: “Cuba’s unique people, history and culture makes Cuba unique – and ‘unique’ is better than ‘best’.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Workshop Puts Focus on Dynamic Tourism Communications for Africa

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UNWTO Workshop Puts Focus on Dynamic Tourism Communications for Africa - TRAVELINDEX - TRAVELNEWSHUB.com - UNTOURISMVictoria Falls, Zimbabwe, November 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO brought together top tourism and travel practitioners of 20 countries from across Africa to explore ways to deliver more effective tourism communications and showcase the sector’s role as a pillar of development.

The first Communications, Media and Tourism Training Workshop in Africa (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, 13-15 November) recognized the heightened relevance of tourism and the current opportunity to gain greater visibility outside of the sector itself. Based on this premise, the three-day event focused on the opportunities for placing tourism in the mainstream conversation as well as the ongoing challenges facing communities, destinations and Africa as a region.

“Leaning by doing”

Reflecting UNWTO’s collaborative approach to communications, the workshop prioritised active learning among both participants and trainers. To gain a better understanding of why tourism matters and of how this needs to be communicated, the first day began with visits to three case studies in and around Victoria Falls:

  • Tourism for Wildlife Conservation: A visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust provided an opportunity to community-led conservation in action, offering a better understanding of where tourism is supporting wildlife protection and where it can do more.
  • Tourism for Development: Face-to-face meetings with the leaders and members of Umuzi Village made clear the challenges small destinations face in gaining access to the benefits tourism can offer, particularly with regards to outreach, communications and promotion.
  • Tourism for Nature: The rainforests inside Victoria Falls Nations Park served as an example of tourism’s ability to support the preservation of ecosystems, though again making clear how the sector’s full potential is not always realized.

The field trips provided the basis for the interactive learning sessions and workshops of the following two days. The 50 participants, drawn from 20 countries and from communications, destination management and tourism governance, were tasked with addressing three of the key challenges facing tourism communicators today: pitching to the media, building and curating media relations, and focusing the narrative on tourism for development.

The workshop was informed by presentations from experts from UNWTO as well as from across the media spectrum (Meta, Channels TV, TraveMedia Ireland) and from top content creators. The interactive presentations again focused on the most relevant issues, including ways to place tourism in the mainstream media, harnessing the power of social media for tourism for development, working with the media, and effective communications to showcase tourism’s importance for culture, heritage and communities.

Solutions and debates

With the focus of the Field Trips as the foundations, participants were tasked with presenting their solutions to the three main challenges outlined. With the focus again on interactive learning, the different backgrounds and viewpoints informed discussions around how best to pitch tourism to the wider media, how to work with media in an ever-changing landscape, and how to move beyond tourism as just a leisure activity. The discussions both highlighted the shared goals of diverse destinations while also making clear the gaps in knowledge that still need to be filled, with UNWTO standing ready to deliver further media training.

Alongside exploring the solutions to growing tourism as a media topic, the workshop also focused on crisis communications, again utilizing the diverse expertise of participants and the examples of the field trips to identify ways to be more proactive and build readiness.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA and WTCF Sign MOU to Promote Cooperation in BRI Cultural Tourism Industry

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PATA and WTCF Sign MOU to Promote Cooperation in BRI Cultural Tourism Industry - TRAVELINDEXBeijing, China, November 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce a new organisational partnership with the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), a global international tourism organisation with tourism cities as its focus. The agreement aims to establish a strategic partnership for constructive cooperation in areas of mutual interest based on the principles of organisational development and mutual benefit.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by PATA Chair Peter Semone and WTCF Secretary-General Yang Shuo on October 18, 2023, during the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (hereinafter referred to as the “Forum”) at the event’s Thematic Forum on Sub-national Cooperation in Beijing, China.

“As global travel continues to accelerate and recover from the pandemic, PATA has renewed its focus on the People’s Republic of China and its domestic, inbound and outbound tourism portfolios. Our partnership with the World Tourism Cities Federation comes at the right time. WTCF has a superlative network of cities across the globe and is a leading voice for tourism in China, and PATA is finding ways to support the next wave of China’s tourism growth. We look forward to working with WTCF in the coming years for mutual success.” said Mr Semone.

The MOU was included in the List of Practical Cooperation Deliverables of the Forum, a list incorporating a series of practical cooperation projects and bilateral cooperation agreements agreed upon by national governments, financial institutions, local governments, and enterprises. It emphasizes the important roles of the international tourism organisations in promoting the development of the tourism industry.

On signing of the MOU, Mr. Yang stated that “the agreement fully leverages the role of WTCF as a platform. As the initiating and headquarters’ city, Beijing actively promotes the construction of a win-win tourism and cultural industry under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It demonstrates its exemplary and leading role as a BRI hub city, narrates the story of Beijing’s high-level openness to the world, and has ushered into a new stage of high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road.”

Mr. Yang also pointed out that “in the future, WTCF will work closely with PATA, fully leverage their respective advantages, implement the practical content of the MOU, and jointly promote the prosperous development of the tourism and cultural industries of the Belt and Road, to ensure that the practical results will benefit more global tourism cities.”

As a global international tourism organization with tourism cities as its primary focus, WTCF adheres to the core concept of “Better City Life through Tourism”. It is dedicated to promoting exchanges and cooperation between cities and organisations and plays a significant role in driving the innovative development of the global tourism industry.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News