Global Travel News

S Hotels Embarks on Major Renovation for SAii Resorts in Southern Thailand

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S Hotels Embarks on Major Renovation for SAii Resorts in Southern Thailand - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comPhuket, Thailand, November 3, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / S Hotels and Resorts PCL, the global hospitality company from Singha Estate PCL, has announced a major USD 27 million renovation of its resorts in Thailand and Fiji, including an investment of more than THB 500m (approx. USD 14.2m) to reimagine the design, facilities and guest experiences at its three SAii Resorts in Thailand – SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Laguna Phuket, and SAii Koh Samui Choengmon – and FJD 28.5m (approx. USD 12.5m) to upgrade Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.

First introduced in 2019, SAii Resorts is S Hotels & Resorts’ homegrown upper-upscale resort brand which specialises in sustainable and free-spirited lifestyle hospitality. The name “SAii” derives from the Thai word for “sand,” and the trio of SAii Resorts in Thailand offer some of the kingdom’s finest beachfront stays. SAii Phi Phi Island Village and SAii Laguna Phuket have already achieved Green Globe™ Certification for their commitment to conservation, and SAii Koh Samui Choengmon promotes sustainability through a wide range of initiatives, including recycling, water conservation, energy reduction and plastic-free products.

Commencing this year and running until 2025, this new programme of extensive upgrades will encompass almost every touchpoint, including the guestrooms and suites, lobby areas, restaurants, spas, swimming pools and more. Every aspect of these upgrades will embrace SAii Resorts’ natural and responsible philosophy, and Southern Thai arts & crafts, including local pottery, will be incorporated in the design concept.

The renovation of the guest rooms will be undertaken during the low season, so it will not impact upon the resort experience. The newly renovated premium rooms at SAii Laguna Phuket and villas at SAii Phi Phi Island Village will be bookable now for stays from December 2023 onwards, enabling new and returning guests to enjoy the fresh, authentic SAii experience this coming high season.

At SAii Phi Phi Island Village, the Thai-inspired retreat nestled in 70 hectares of coconut groves on Koh Phi Phi Don, the interior décor will reflect the resort’s commitment to marine conservation with playful artworks that represent the underwater world. Intended to let every visitor “Recharge in Your Own Shell,” the refurbishment will enhance the contrast between the original rustic architecture and contemporary interiors, with natural earthy tones to calm the soul and local materials that evoke the spirit of Koh Phi Phi’s roots. The resort’s spacious Thai bungalows will be upgraded with a nautical design concept inspired by island life, with sustainable materials such as bamboo and grass used to craft the outdoor chairs and lamps, and headboard artwork created from the ropes used to tie up boats.

Also being refurbished are the arrival and departure areas, and outdoor infinity pools, with the aim of positioning Koh Phi Phi as a destination-of-choice for eco-conscious, experience-seeking travellers.

At SAii Laguna Phuket, which is nestled between the Andaman Sea and the lagoons on Phuket’s sunset coast, the design will be based on the concept of a traditional lagoon house, updated for the modern era. This will become more than just a place to stay; it will be a resort where experiences, activities and a sense of tranquility can coexist peacefully. Travellers will be transported on a multi-sensory journey through taste, texture and sight, interwoven with elements that tap into Phuket’s heritage. One key aspect of the project will be the launch of SAii Spa, the brand-new holistic lifestyle concept which artfully blends wellness, local Thai culture, anti-aging solutions and smart nutrition, to promote balanced living and celebrate the joy of exploration. A SAii Wellness Concierge will help guests to tailor their own path to happiness and wellbeing through personalized programs, creating a truly transformative experience.

SAii Resorts will redefine the culinary journey with three groundbreaking new food & beverage programs. The “SAiiSational Breakfast” will treat guests to honest, healthy and homemade dishes, with “eat like a local” favorites and nutrient-packed egg dishes from around the globe that support local farmers and communities, while also catering to special dietary requirements. The “Global Authentic Gastronomy” concept showcases original recipes from around the world, offering a blend of simplicity and exceptional taste to ensure that each dish conjures cherished memories and brings lots of smiles. Finally, “Savor Real Thai” will delight diners with the genuine taste of authentic Thai cuisine. Together, these innovative F&B programs will position SAii Resorts as the ultimate destination for foodies.

Following the completion of this extensive renovation project in 2025, S Hotels & Resorts expects to achieve a 15-20% increase in the average daily rate (ADR) at its SAii Resorts in Thailand.

The Beachfront Bures at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort are nestled amid palm trees, directly on the sandy shore Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, the five-star destination nestled on Fiji’s Coral Coast, is set to complete a comprehensive renovation of its public areas and guest rooms this November. Upon reopening, guests will be immersed in the ambience of a traditional Fijian village, with world-class facilities including a lagoon pool, tennis courts, golf training facility, wedding chapel, an award-winning spa and more. S Hotels & Resorts expects to achieve a 20% ADR increase following these upgrades.

Mr. Dirk De Cuyper, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to embark on this important strategic project, which is set to raise our standard of hospitality to new levels of international excellence. As a proud Thai hotel management and investment group, our SAii Resorts focus on the authentic elements that make Thailand such a compelling destination for discerning global travellers: its culture, nature and cuisine. The renovation of Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort meanwhile, will reaffirm this property’s position as a destination-of-choice for experience-seeking travellers. These refurbishment projects will enhance our brand proposition, helping us to attract today’s generation of guests and creating benefits not only for S Hotels & Resorts, but for the entire tourism industry.”

S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited, the hospitality arm of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a fast-growing, Thai-inspired company with an extensive international portfolio and world-class standards. Specialising in the management and investment of high-quality hotels and resorts in desirable destinations across the globe, S Hotels & Resorts has created a collection of its own distinctive lifestyle brands, whilst also partnering with the hospitality industry’s leading names. The company aims to set new standards for leisure and lifestyle through diversified business platforms and to enhance value for all its stakeholders based upon a philosophy of sustainable development and delivering benefits to local communities.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Oct. 30-Nov. 3, 2023

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Last week, WestJet said so long to Swoop while Air Canada hello to Dubai (from YVR); in other round-up news, Viking is seeking reimbursement for its COVID refunds, CATO continued to question TICO’s review in Ontario, and G Adventures launched its “biggest, boldest,” sale of the year.

NEWS

The Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) is continuing its campaign calling for the Ontario government to initiate a thorough review of the province’s Travel Industry Act, reiterating its belief that the ongoing TICO review is merely a “cosmetic change” that does not address that Act’s fundamental flaws, including providing adequate consumer protection.

India’s high commission in Canada has resumed processing some types of visa applications for Canadians applying from across the country as well as abroad. The decision came a month after New Delhi suspended the services in Canada and for Canadian citizens worldwide. The high commission said it is resuming business, medical and conference visas, as well as entry for people with family ties in India. Restrictions seem to remain in place when it comes to visas for tourists, students, journalists, and missionaries.

Viking filed a lawsuit against Arch Insurance Group alleging its failure to fulfill its financial obligations during the COVID-19 pandemic by refusing to refund Viking unearned travel protection premiums. The cruise line says it issued compensation for travel protection premiums in excess of US$3 million.

A survey from Ipsos for US Travel shows nearly two-thirds of recent air travellers (65%) are willing to share biometric information such as fingerprints and facial recognition if it reduced the airport security process by 20 minutes.

AIR

WestJet’s “ultra-not-expensive” airline Swoop said farewell last week, completing its last day of operations on Oct. 28 before joining WestJet’s mainline fleet as part of the company’s evolutionary exercise that now sees it moving on to integrating newly purchased Sunwing Airline as well. The airline was launched in 2018.

Porter Airlines launched daily, roundtrip service between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Tampa (TPA).

Inaugural service Air Canada from Vancouver to Dubai took flight on Oct. 28 linking Western Canada with the Middle East with four-times weekly service aboard Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This new service complements Air Canada’s existing daily service between DXB and Toronto. Outbound flights operate from YVR at 21:15 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, returning at 02:05 Mon.-Wed.-Thur.-Sat.

United Airlines has begun boarding passengers in economy class with window seats first, a move it says will speed up boarding times for flights. The plan, known as WILMA – for window, middle and aisle – was tested at four domestic locations and one hub and was deemed to shave up to two minutes of boarding time. The change will begin with passengers in Group 4. Those with window seats will board first, followed by those with middle seats and then those with aisle seats. United said that multiple customers on the same economy reservation, such as families, will be allowed to board their flight together.

BY THE NUMBERS

Air Canada reported surging profits in its latest quarter as consumers continued to spend on travel, despite higher inflation and interest rates weighing on their wallets. The country’s biggest airline saw net income for its third quarter jump to $1.25 billion from a half-billion-dollar loss in the same period a year earlier. Passenger revenues for the quarter ended Sept. 30 leaped 22% year-over-year. Adjusted earnings also surpassed those from 2019, the last year before the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the travel industry.

DEALS

Calling it it’s “biggest, boldest sale of the year,” G Adventures is offering travellers up to 30% off a large selection of trips worldwide throughout November for trips departing up to April 30. For those looking to travel later in the year, there will be a 10% discount on select trips departing between 01 May and 30 June 30 2024. For a full list of trips on sale, please visit: https://www.gadventures.com/travel-deals/cyber-sale/.

Palm Island Resort & Spa in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is offering a US$1,000 air credit for all-inclusive package bookings made by Nov. 15 for travel through March 31, 2024. For reservations and more information, call 800-858-4618 or visit palmislandgrenadines.com.

TOURS

Credit: Island Routes

Travellers who like being in the driver’s seat can explore Jamaica’s scenic roadways from behind the wheel during a guided MINI Cooper Tour with Island Routes. Tours begin with a safety lesson and orientation session before drivers take the wheel in a bright green MINI Cooper convertible to zip along the island’s stunning coastline. Half-day and full-day experiences include multiple pitstops to sample roadside jerk, check out waterfalls, or take a bamboo raft along the Martha Brae River. These fully guided tours are an ideal activity for travellers who enjoy driving in a new destination but want to avoid the added stress of renting a car and navigating unfamiliar roads.

Railbookers has unveiled its latest set of interactive online brochures, featuring itineraries inclusive of rail transportation, hotel accommodations, sightseeing and activities with options to customize and enhance each trip. Among them are “Worldwide Independent Rail Vacations,” “Cruise Extensions,” and updated brochures that explore in-depth two of its most popular destinations, the Italy and Switzerland by Rail guides, as well as a brochure dedicated to luxury rail journeys. Travel agents can view all the shareable brochures online, along with resources curated for agents, HERE.

HOTELS

As of Nov. 10, travellers visiting (or stopping over) in Fort Lauderdale will have a new hotel option by the airport. The 138-room Aloft Hotels by Marriott at Fort Lauderdale Airport is located at 501 SE 24th St. about five kilometres from the airport and 2.5 km the Port Everglades cruise terminals. Amenities include rooftop pool, fitness centre and yoga terrace.

Dubbed Dubai’s “vertical resort,” One&Only One Za’abeel is due to launch operations in December. The unique urban hotel reimagines the traditional horizontal resort concept with a groundbreaking vertical design. Anchoring the architectural marvel is The Link, the world’s longest cantilever, an avant-garde feat of engineering, housing dining concepts, leisure experiences, and a rooftop infinity pool offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Dubai skyline.

RESORTS

The iconic Sam Lord’s name has returned to Barbados with the opening of Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa, built on the former site of a notorious 19th-century pirate enclave. The secluded, ocean-front hotel marks Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ entrance into Barbados and has begun welcoming its first guests ahead of a formal Grand Opening in early 2024. Nestled on the Southeastern side of the island of Barbados, 15 minutes from the Grantley International Airport, the all-new construction, all-inclusive resort offers 422 guest rooms, including 37 suites with sophisticated architecture and sustainable designs, along with large ocean views and lanai-style private balconies.

RIU Hotels has re-opened the Riu Palace Macao in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic after a full renovation The all-Inclusive adults-only hotel was last remodelled in 2012. Guests can now enjoy fresh decor, new menus, and Elite Club by RIU, an exclusive service with perks and spaces designed for guests looking to take their experience at RIU Hotels to the next level. Built during the renovation and coinciding with the hotel’s reopening, the hotel chain is also inaugurating its largest wellness centre open to all guests of RIU Complex hotels in Punta Cana

CRUISE

Citing customer demand, Le Boat will offer cruises in 2024 on Ontario’s Trent Severn Waterway. Le Boat is Europe’s largest boat rental company and will boast a fleet of eight Luxury Horizon Cruisers from their base at Horseshoe Bay Marina in Peterborough. Boats range in size from two to four bedrooms and will offer several suggested self-sail cruise routes throughout the region, starting at $2,800 for a week. Shorter and longer itineraries are also available (no boat licenses or prior boating experience is required). Sales are open for sailing starting in May and agents earn 10% commission. A travel advisor site is coming soon filled with agent tools, images, and more.

MSC Cruises has become the first major line to be awarded the Green Marine Europe Certification, a voluntary environmental certification program for the maritime industry. Green Marine Europe is a partnership between North American environmental certification program Green Marine and the Surfrider Foundation, a leading European Union NGO in ocean and maritime protection.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

TravelBrands’ Encore Cruises has unveiled the latest addition to its portfolio with Seabourn. Travel agents booking Seabourn through TravelBrands until Nov. 12, will earn a bonus commission of $250.

For each booking made in November, Riviera River Cruises will enter travel advisors into a draw for complimentary cabin on a 2024 departure and US$1,000 p.p. airfare credit, up to $2,000 per cabin. And from Nov. 13 to 30, advisors will receive a $100 gift card for bookings. For additional information about Riviera and its European river cruises, call 888-838-8820 or visit https://www.rivierarivercruises.com/.

EVENTS

Toronto residents – including travel advisors – are invited to get an exclusive taste and feel of the Florida Keys & Key West with a limited-time Tiny Home Experience set for Monday, Nov. 6, through Wednesday, Nov. 8. The Florida Keys-themed Tiny Home will be positioned at Yonge-Dundas Square from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Keys representatives will play host within the Tiny Home, serving up free samples of key lime pie (while supplies last), offering select giveaways and prizes, and sharing the latest updates from the Florida destination.

Visit Orlando, along with theme park, hotel, transportation, and attraction partners, will host a series of training and marketplace events in Calgary, Toronto, and Halifax from Dec. 3 to 8. The “Orlando Canadian Sunshine Tour” marks the return of Visit Orlando to both Calgary and Halifax, which have new airlift to Orlando. Events are as follows: Calgary: Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. – The Westin Calgary Airport; Toronto: Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m. – Chateau Le Jardin; Halifax: Dec. 8., 9 a.m. – The Prince George Hotel. Food and drinks will be provided and those in attendance will be entered for a chance to win a trip on the 2024 Visit Orlando Ultimate Fam. To qualify, they must complete the Orlando Travel Academy before attending the event. Register by Friday, Nov. 10 at https://cvent.me/gg4BbN.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Olivier Rochefort is the new Vice President of Operations for Atlific Hotels. Rochefort held a similar post at Crescent Hotels and Resorts, overseeing hotel operations at the corporate level, while managing brand and owner relations for the company’s Canadian portfolio.

Greek Islands and the Eastern Mediterranean cruise line Celestyal continues to invest and expand in its key markets with the appointment of Brandon Townsley as Vice President & Managing Director – North America.

DESTINATIONS

Canadian residents can take advantage of a limited-time offer to explore the Bahamas Out Islands at a discount. Pre-booked hotel stays of four nights or longer at participating Out Island properties can earn up to two free airline or Bahamas Ferries tickets from Nassau. The booking window is through Nov. 13 for travel until April 30. For details click HERE.

Peru is already recognized as a destination with a culinary scene that’s among some of the finest in the world. This culinary reputation was further solidified with Lima’s Central restaurant crowned The World’s Best Restaurant 2023 – and with three more Lima restaurants making the list. Led by award-winning chefs and spouses Virgilio Martínez and Pía Léon, Central showcases the diverse flavours of Peru’s indigenous ingredients sourced from 15 different altitudes. The restaurant has made remarkable progress since its initial appearance at number 50 on the list in 2013 and made history by being the first Latin American restaurant to secure the top spot in 2023.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 2004, the last passenger flight took off from Mirabel International Airport just outside Montreal as it shut down after 30 years. Millions of passengers had been expected to pass through Mirabel’s modern terminal after it opened in 1975, but it didn’t live up to its promise. The airport authority was looking for developers to offer ideas for the facility.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

European Haute Cuisine Luminary Eyck Zimmer Makes Return to Maldives

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European Haute Cuisine Luminary Eyck Zimmer Makes Return to Maldives - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comExperience Exquisite Culinary Delights as Eyck Zimmer Takes Centre Stage
at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru in January 2024. Multiple award-winning international chef Eyck Zimmer will bring his culinary expertise to the luxury OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort 17-31 January 2024.

Zimmer will curate two extraordinary five-course dining experiences at the resort’s Art-i-san restaurant, as well as host two captivating cooking demonstrations.

Hailing from Germany, Eyck Zimmer stands as one of the foremost luminaries in the world of contemporary haute cuisine. His illustrious career has been adorned with accolades, including the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de Grande Bretagne in 2000, British Chef of the Year in 2006 and Portuguese Chef of the Year in 2008. His remarkable contributions to French culture and culinary excellence were acknowledged by the French Government, bestowing upon him the esteemed title of Chevalier du Mérite Agricole in 2014. Furthermore, he earned the distinguished title of Master of Culinary Arts from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts of Great Britain.

Zimmer’s culinary journey has been punctuated by stints in some of the United Kingdom’s most renowned kitchens, including Claridge’s, The Dorchester, The Ritz and The Savoy. His culinary prowess has also left an indelible mark on five-star establishments in Switzerland, Portugal, Serbia, and Germany.

Presently, Eyck Zimmer serves as the Director of Culinary at the illustrious Jockey Club in Hong Kong, where he continues to channel his passion for the culinary arts. His unwavering dedication to his craft is epitomised by his motto, “Born to cook. No plan B!”

Growing up in East Germany during the era of the Cold War, Zimmer’s affinity for food was cultivated at a young age. Inspired by the renowned French chef Paul Bocuse, he embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 16. Over the span of 36 years, Zimmer has enriched the culinary landscape in six different countries, earning him high acclaim.

It is worth noting that Eyck Zimmer shares a special history with OUTRIGGER Maldives, as he previously collaborated with the resort’s General Manager, John Allanson, during their time at Rocco Forte’s The Lowry Hotel in Manchester from 2005 to 2007.

Zimmer’s previous collaborations with OUTRIGGER in the Maldives, in 2017 and 2019, were marked by his exceptional commitment to both guests and hosts, leaving an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to experience his artistry.

Christopher Long, Executive Chef at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru, speaks highly of Eyck Zimmer, noting, “Eyck gave a tremendous amount of time to both guests and hosts on his previous visits. Despite his many achievements, Eyck remains extremely humble. I am particularly looking forward to his return to OUTRIGGER Maldives.”

This January, guests at the OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort will once again have the privilege of savouring the exquisite culinary creations of Eyck Zimmer, an icon of modern European haute cuisine.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and Pacific Asia Travel Association Focus on Sustainable Future for Tourism

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UNWTO and Pacific Asia Travel Association Focus on Sustainable Future for Tourism - TRAVELINDEXGuilin, China, November 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has once again partnered with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) to guide the development of tourism across the region.

For its 17th edition, the 2023 UNWTO-PATA Forum (Guilin, China, 26-27 October) put the focus on maximizing the sector’s ability to drive growth, build economic resilience and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals. The Forum is the consolidated leading platform for policymakers, business leaders and a range of tourism stakeholders in Asia and the Pacific.

People, Planet and Prosperity

With co-organizers the Guilin Municipal People’s Government and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region’s Department of Culture and Tourism, as well as with Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the Forum explored the best ways of introducing greater sustainability into every level of the tourism ecosystem. Among other areas, discussions centred on priorities including trends, innovation and technology, education and skills, and green investments.

The two-day event featured keynote interventions from UNWTO officials, alongside expert inputs from National Tourism Administrations, National Tourism Organizations and Destination Management Organizations, government officials, NGOs, industry practitioners. The trends, insights, research findings and practices, will be used to develop policies focused on greater sustainability while also raising awareness promote awareness and education about sustainable tourism among forum attendees and the broader general public, including through the more effective use of data.

The Forum also featured a high-level technical session organized by UNWTO around the theme of “Rethinking Tourism in post-pandemic times: understanding and adapting to new trends,” and a panel discussion focused on strengthening collaboration between public and private actors. Within the framework of the Forum, UNWTO officials met with key officials from the region, including the Secretary of CPC Committee and the Mayor of Guilin and with representatives of the Hongkong Polytechnic University.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Unlock a Culinary Adventure with Nazo Mystery Box at Akira Back

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Unlock a Culinary Adventure with Nazo Mystery Box at Akira Back - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, November 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Akira Back, the innovative and inspiring Asian restaurant on the 37 th floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, is inviting guests to embark on a culinary adventure and unlock the secrets of gastronomy with the Nazo Mystery Box.

“Nazo” is a Japanese word that translates as mystery, enigma or puzzle – something that is not easily explained and carries an element of intrigue. It is this very concept that has sparked the imagination of the talented chef at Akira Back.

The Nazo Mystery Box will transport diners on a journey of curiosity and gastronomy. The lid carries an artistic etching of Chef Akira Back himself, and a plume of smoke gently rises from within, offering the only clue to what lies inside.

When the lid is lifted, diners are presented with a series of multi-sensory delights – nine colorful, bite- sized culinary creations, handcrafted by our talented chef using only the finest ingredients imported from Japan. These include premium cuts of tuna such as otoro, chutoro and akami, alongside other exquisite seafood like botan ebi, known for its succulent sweetness, king crab leg, caviar, abalone, and hirame, a high-quality fish famed for its distinctive flavor and firm texture.

This creates the perfect blend of culinary theater and creative gastronomy – an experience that starts with the anticipation of not knowing what the box contains, followed by the courage to take the first bite, and completed by the exquisite flavors that dance on the taste buds.

The Nazo Mystery Box is available daily from 17.30 to 23.00 hrs, exclusively at Akira Back Bangkok, priced at just THB 3,200++ per box. Limited boxes are available, so don’t miss this highly original and intriguing epicurean experience with your loved one!

Advanced reservations are required, please call +66 (0) 2 059 5999 email restaurant- reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com

About Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queens Park Hotel
The largest hotel in Bangkok and the first Marriott Marquis hotel in Asia Pacific, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park is a new landmark in heart of the Thai capital. The hotel offers extensive facilities, including 1,388 rooms and suites, over 5,000m² of function space across more than 30 venues, two swimming pools, 24-hour fitness center, the Quan Spa and a collection of restaurants and bars. Centrally located on Sukhumvit Road, in Bangkok’s vibrant business and entertainment district, the hotel is the perfect choice for all travelers to this pulsating city.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels & Resorts Ushers in New Era of Luxury in Bali

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Cross Hotels & Resorts Ushers in New Era of Luxury in Bali - VISITBALI.orgBali, Indonesia, November 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Cross Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its latest triumph, an exciting hotel management agreement with PT. Grha Swahita (BIP Group) that will see Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak become part of an exclusive portfolio on 1st January 2024. Nestled at the heart of Seminyak, this gem of a property promises beachside bliss by day and an electrifying nightlife scene after sunset.

Brimming with modernity and a contemporary vibe, the 99-key hotel oozes unadulterated charm, creating an ambiance of serenity and relaxation. The low-rise property offers a variety of gorgeous 55-square-meter suites spanning three floors, while a further 10 suites with stunning views are located on the upper floors. For the ultimate vacation, the expansive 110-square-meter Penthouse Suite has ocean views and is perfect for families and small groups.

“This momentous signing is a pivotal milestone in our continued pursuit of excellence in Indonesia, especially Bali. Seminyak is a beacon of natural beauty, and I am confident this hotel will elevate the stylish beach town to new heights. This partnership embodies the shared vision between Cross Hotels & Resorts and PT. Grha Swahita, thus I anticipate remarkable success on the horizon,” declared Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

As Cross Hotels & Resorts continues to build its presence across the Asia-Pacific region, it is unwavering in its commitment to a new corporate vision, one that charts a path towards becoming ‘APAC’s Hotel Management Operator of Choice’, offering owners a revolutionary alternative to conventional chains. This signing becomes Cross Hotels & Resorts’ 8th jewel in Indonesia’s hospitality crown.

With its unwavering commitment to empower owners in key markets, Cross Hotels & Resorts remains leagues ahead of the competition with its unique management formula. In stark contrast to larger, unwieldy chains, Cross Hotels & Resorts grants owners the flexibility to harness a selection of cherished lifestyle brands that resonate with local patrons and international travelers.

Suzanna Tanojo, Principal of PT. Grha Swahita (BIP Group), extolled the partnership, affirming, “Our quest was to unearth a hotel management provider that shared our vision, and in Cross Hotels & Resorts, we’ve found the ideal ally. Cross boasts a formidable global reach, and we place our faith in their specialization. What truly sets them apart is their unwavering dedication to F&B development—a defining factor in our decision-making process.”

Cross Hotels & Resorts continues to attract hotel owners with innovative strategies that boost ancillary revenue and empower GMs to break from tradition to maximize property growth. With its unique approach, Asia-Pacific’s brand leader is reshaping hotel management by redefining the landscape. This reaffirms Cross Hotels & Resorts as a pioneer in the future of the Asia-Pacific’s hospitality sector.

The current portfolio of Cross Hotels & Resorts boasts 28 hotels across four countries, represented under six distinctive brands: Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection, and Kaura, and includes destinations in Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam.

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

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

L’Arôme Group Opens New Restaurant at Blue Tree, Phuket

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L’Arôme Group to Open New Restaurant at Blue Tree, Phuket - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comPhuket, Thailand, November 1, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Following the success of L’Arôme By The Sea in Phuket’s upscale dining scene, we, France L’Arôme Group, are thrilled to present a contemporary French restaurant and all-day dining experience in a 4-storey building, with stunning views of Blue Tree Lagoon. The restaurant, which will be helmed by Executive Chef Julien Burbaud, will open on 15th November 2023.

Chef Julien Burbaud, previously trained by masters of French cuisine including Joël Robuchon, Yannick Alleno and Alain Passard, is now ready to showcase his innovative and precise modern French cuisine at L’Arôme at Blue Tree. Julien was a contestant on the third season of Top Chef France and previously served as the Executive Chef of Fanfan Paris, another restaurant featured in Michelin Guide France, under the umbrella of France Larome Group. We invite you to visit L’Arôme at Blue Tree and enjoy the lively and dynamic culinary experience provided by Chef Julien.

Overlooking the Blue Tree Lagoon, the restaurant complex will house three different concepts under the same roof:

The Ground Floor – All Day Dining
Will operate daily from 10am – 10pm, while serving a relaxed yet refined cuisine. Highlights of the menu include the lobster taco with a chipotle bearnaise sauce and the tomahawk coming from Ranger’s Valley in Australia. In addition, guests can enjoy pizza directly from the wood-fired oven or select a sashimi of the freshest fish available.

The 1st Floor – Fine Dining
Will serve guests Chef Julien’s modern forward-thinking French cuisine. Guests can either opt for the A La Carte options, where a wide range of imported and local products are served with an innovative style, or they can go with our discovery menu. Signatures of the menu include the duck Rossini, where the duck from Rayong is stuffed with a French foie gras and served alongside spiced carrots or the Phuket lobster which is served inside of a ravioli and finished with a lobster bisque enhanced by the addition of lemongrass.

The Canopy – Private Club
Located on the second and third floor of L’Arôme at Blue Tree is an adult’s only space, designed to be a haven of peace and tranquillity, where guests can sip on cocktails while watching the sun set across the horizon.

For reservations call +6682-951-8455 or contact on social media @laromeatbluetree.

France L’Arôme Group
France L’Arôme Group was founded in 2014 in Paris, the epicenter of the French fine dining realm. Since the opening of its first restaurant in Nanjing, China, this young group has been focusing on operating restaurants at some of the most exotic and dynamic destinations around the globe. Currently, the group operates nine acclaimed restaurants across France, China and Thailand. The success of the group is attributable to its philosophy of nurturing young talent. This inspirational pool of international talent is very much at the centre of collaborating on the development, execution and delivery of quality, diversity and originality, led by a forward thinking management team.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Welcomes 2-Michelin-Star Chef

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal Welcomes 2-Michelin-Star Chef - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comPhnom Penh, Cambodia, November 1, 2023 / TOP25RESTAURANTS / The historic Raffles Hotel Le Royal is set to welcome celebrated French Chef Pascal Favre d’Anne, the recipient of two Michelin stars, for a series of exclusive meals in November.

Chef Pascal was awarded his first Michelin star in 2008 for Le Favre d’Anne restaurant in Angers in northwestern France and his second Michelin star in 2016 for another restaurant of the same name. His cuisine is inspired by his global travels, particularly in Asia, and highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with distinctive French cooking techniques.

At Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Chef Pascal will serve exclusive 5-course set dinners on Nov. 16, 17 and 18, priced at $88++, and special 3-course set lunches on Nov. 17 and 18, priced at $42++. All meals will be served at Restaurant Le Royal and include an optional wine pairing. Guests can also discover the Louis XIII Cognac Experience, which is served tableside from a decanter.

Some highlights from Chef Pascal’s sumptuous set menus at Raffles Hotel Le Royal include scallops with radish, herring roe, matcha tea and truffle oil; steamed Mekong River lobster with Cointreau orange liqueur and shell bisque; seared sea bass with carrot and lemon confit; and crusted veal filet with ceps and celery ravioli; among others.

“Chef Pascal’s two Michelin stars speak for themselves, underscoring his extraordinary culinary talents, and we are delighted to welcome him to Restaurant Le Royal as we continue to redefine high-end gastronomy in Cambodia,” Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dennis de Groot said.

More recently, Chef Pascal has been overseeing the opening of the new Halles Gourmandes d’Angers in northwestern France, where he has a Cuisine du Marche concept store. He is also the culinary ambassador for Cointreau, the world-famous orange liqueur produced in Angers, and he is involved in a highly respected culinary school, the Angers Campus Gastronomic.

Chef Pascal’s fine-dining experiences at Raffles Hotel Le Royal will mark the third culinary event at the hotel this year featuring Michelin-starred chefs. In March, the hotel welcomed French Chef Patrice Hardy of the two-Michelin-starred Le Palme d’Or at Hotel Martinez in Cannes and the one-Michelin-starred La Brettonnière in Boulogne-Billancourt. And in June, two-Michelin-star Chef Thierry Drapeau and Vietnam Iron Chef winner Chef Sakal Phoeung prepared a series of special “four-hands” dining experiences at Restaurant Le Royal.

Seating for Chef Pascal’s meals at Restaurant Le Royal is limited and advanced reservations are required. For inquiries and reservations, please contact Raffles Hotel Le Royal at Tel: 023 981 888

ABOUT RAFFLES
Founded in Singapore in 1887, Raffles Hotels, Resorts and Residences are places where ideas are born, history is made and stories and legends are created. At each landmark address, distinguished guests and residents will find a world of elegance and enchanted glamour, where Raffles’ renowned legacy of gracious service knows no bounds. As the authentic heart of a destination, Raffles champions fine art and design, and fosters culture in all its forms, guiding guests to make discoveries in their own time and way. Raffles’ commitment to local communities is expressed through diverse initiatives with a unified mission to actively support the arts and the environment. From one generation to the next, visitors arrive as guests, leave as friends, and return as family. Raffles can be found in key international locations including Singapore, Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Doha, Maldives, Udaipur, Phnom Penh and Bali; with flagship openings upcoming in London, Boston, Macau and Bahrain in 2023. Raffles is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Turning Website Views into Restaurant Visits

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Turning Website Views into Restaurant Visits - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comIf you’ve visited a new city lately, you may have searched online for places to eat. Maybe you read some reviews, then clicked through to the restaurants’ own sites. New research by the team of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University shows that in the hospitality sector, turning user clicks into dining visits depends on consistently positive messaging. By testing two competing theories of the effect of customer reviews, the study by Dr Seunghun Shin, Dr Hyejo Hailey Shin and Dr Jaehee Gim will help local restaurants optimise their marketing strategy through homepage testimonials.
In a crowded market like Hong Kong, restaurants have to be smart to stand out. Today, this means having an effective online presence to gain the trust of short-term visitors searching for nearby restaurants. While there are many third-party review platforms in the hospitality sector, such as TOP25 Restaurants, restaurants often add positive testimonials to their own homepages, hoping to “seal the deal” for those whose interest is piqued by reading such reviews. “About 70% of hospitality businesses display testimonial reviews on their websites”, say the researchers, “and about 80% of diners check a restaurant’s website before choosing to visit”.
Which write-ups should a restaurant select for its testimonials? Naturally they should be positive, but there are degrees of positivity. Overly glowing reviews might be seen as biased, perhaps written by people who have a close relationship with the business and are thus not objective. This is in line with attribution theory. “When reading a review”, the authors explain, “customers are less likely to adopt it in their decision-making if they perceive its evaluation is based on the reviewer’s personal reasons”. It might then seem more trustworthy for the restaurant to quote moderately positive reviews. Indeed, the authors mention a study showing that 5-star-rated products sell less well than 4.2–4.5-star products.
However, it could be argued that extremely positive testimonials have a better chance of providing the final push for prospective customers viewing the homepage. This fits with regulatory focus theory, which sees customers as focusing on their ideal goals, such as a satisfying experience. Indeed, there is evidence that some customers perceive unambiguously positive reviews as more credible than moderately positive reviews that also mention negative information. Where does this leave restaurants? “These two conflicting views make it difficult for hospitality businesses to determine how positive reviews need to be leveraged as testimonials”, the authors point out.
This uncertainty arises because most research has focused on the effects of reviews from third-party sites: online review communities, social networks, media-sharing platforms and search engines. The assumption is that the reviewers are independent of the firms they rate. However, testimonial reviews may not be perceived as fully independent, despite being written by customers, because firms choose to place them on their websites. This calls into question the generalisability of earlier studies. “It remains unclear how effective positive reviews are when communicated through a business official website as testimonials”, the authors say.
Another way to think about testimonials is in terms of how consumers classify them. The researchers note that “testimonial reviews have characteristics of both electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) and advertisements”. On the one hand, they are like unbiased opinions, because real customers write them without any thought of making a profit; on the other, they resemble a form of online advertising, because businesses propagate them independently of the original writers. Whether they are ultimately judged as eWOM or advertisements affects how they should be phrased: word-of-mouth relies on authenticity, implying that any negative aspects ought to be mentioned, whereas advertising is expected to focus solely on the positive.
This lack of understanding of how testimonial positivity affects customers’ decision-making was the motivation for Shin, Shin and Gim’s study. Contrasting attribution theory and regulatory focus theory, they realised that “these two conflicting views make it difficult for hospitality businesses to determine how positive reviews need to be leveraged as testimonials to get the expected outcomes”. They therefore set out to determine how review positivity affects customers’ reactions to online testimonial reviews of restaurants, and how this contrasts with the effect of reviews hosted on other types of online platform.
The team started their study by scraping write-ups of Hong Kong restaurants from TripAdvisor. By analysing the answers to the optional question “was this review helpful?”, they found that 4-star reviews were perceived as more helpful than 5-star reviews. This set the stage for a detailed investigation of how ratings actually affect users’ visit intention. Three hundred participants were asked to search for a nearby Italian restaurant using their smartphones and confirm their choice after checking the restaurant’s website. Half of them saw fully positive 5-star testimonials on the homepages, while the others saw 4-star reviews that were mostly positive but noted caveats such as “a bit crowded”.
Considering that real-life restaurant websites might contain a mix of extremely and moderately positive testimonials, the researchers then studied the effects of such a mixture. Another 200 participants were recruited and tasked with settling on a local Italian eatery. This time, however, when they landed on a restaurant’s homepage, they saw either three 5-star reviews and one 4-star review, or vice versa. As in the above-mentioned experiment, the participants were subsequently asked about their intention to visit the restaurants that they had investigated using their phones, and their overall feelings about them.
Extremely positive testimonials were found to improve both the participants’ view of the restaurants and their actual visit intention. When the restaurants’ homepages carried unambiguously positive reviews, with nothing but praise for the food, prices and service, potential diners were more likely to rate their attitude towards the establishments as favourable and state that they would be likely to visit them. “A hospitality business should make potential customers who visit its website feel confident about their pre-decision by displaying glowing testimonial reviews”, the researchers infer.
When the participants saw mixed positive reviews (some including minor criticisms and others not), the results were consistent with the first experiment. Those who saw mostly the extremely positive reviews had more favourable attitudes and higher visit intention than those who read mostly the tempered positive write-ups. Evidently, according to the researchers, “it is more strategic for a hospitality business to display extremely positive reviews on their websites as testimonials”.
The strategic advantage of extremely positive reviews also indicates that the readers of testimonials tend to think of them as advertisements rather than eWOM. Consumers expect eWOM to be mixed, and there is evidence that they are more strongly influenced by moderately positive than extremely positive reviews on sites like TripAdvisor. However, they react less well when businesses mention criticisms on their own websites. Rather, when reading homepage testimonials, “customers want to be certain about their pre-choice when following up on the product of interest”, the authors conclude.
The next time you search for a restaurant online, your reaction to positive reviews may depend on whether you read review communities or the establishments’ own sites. If the restaurants have their strategy right, they will carefully choose their homepage testimonials and include only the most positive reviews to give interested diners the final push. The study’s authors suggest that restaurants could boost their visit rates by prioritising advert-like content over general information on the pages that users see when clicking through from a search app. In summary, this research fills an important gap in our understanding of testimonial review strategy and should aid hospitality businesses going forward.
Shin, Seunghun, Shin, Hyejo Hailey, and Gim, Jaehee (2023). How Positive Do Testimonials on a Restaurant Website Need to Be? Impact of Positivity of Testimonial Reviews on Customers’ Decision-making. International Journal of Hospitality Management, Vol. 108, 103382.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Pattern Insurance Revolutionizing Cancellation Flexibility for Non-Refundable Bookings

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Pattern Insurance Revolutionizing Cancellation Flexibility for Non-Refundable Bookings - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comPattern, a leading InsurTech innovator specializing in customized embedded insurance and non-insurance products, is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking service, FlexIt.

Designed to provide unmatched cancellation flexibility for non-refundable bookings, FlexIt empowers travel, booking, and registration retailers to offer their customers an immediate, no-questions-asked cancellation option. According to Expedia’s most recent Path to Purchase report, 28% of travelers look for travel brands that offer flexible cancellation policies or refundable rates. Pattern’s platform is meeting that need with FlexIt.

FlexIt seamlessly integrates into the booking pathway of Online Travel Agencies, event booking companies, and any business dealing with non-refundable reservations, effectively transforming them into refundable bookings. This new service redefines customer experience by eliminating the need for complex claim forms or restrictive reasons for cancellations.

Joyce Segall, Global Head of Insurance Innovation and Strategy at Pattern, states, “Today’s consumers are looking for maximum flexibility around refundability with the ability to cancel without the hassle of filling out claim forms or deciphering a list of covered reasons. FlexIt allows consumers to book with confidence knowing they can cancel their booking for any reason, no questions asked.”

FlexIt’s coverage extends across all regions where Pattern operates, ensuring a global reach. Existing Pattern customers can seamlessly access FlexIt through Pattern’s embedded protections platform. Additionally, the service is available as a standalone offer for prospective online retailers seeking cancellation flexibility or as part of a more comprehensive protection offering.

Ido Hertz, Head of Product Management, explains, “Trip cancellation products like CFAR have always come with their fair share of limitations and are not widely available with every purchase, which has been confusing and frustrating to many of our customers. This is not your standard CFAR insurance. We’ve reimagined this product based on market needs. It is easily configured and embedded in every business, booking and customer journey in minutes, and using machine learning, it addresses every flexibility need, with a personalized cancellation service.”

Pattern Insurance invites businesses to explore FlexIt and revolutionize their booking processes by providing customers with unprecedented cancellation flexibility.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News