Global Travel News

Tourism on Track for Full Recovery UNWTO New Data Shows

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Tourism on Track for Full Recovery UNWTO New Data Shows - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, May 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / International tourism is well on its way to returning to pre-pandemic levels, with twice as many people travelling during the first quarter of 2023 than in the same period of 2022.

New Data from UNWTO: What We’ve Learned

The second UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of the year shows that the sector’s swift recovery has continued into 2023. It shows that:

  • Overall, international arrivals reached 80% of pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2023
  • An estimated 235 million tourists travelled internationally in the first three months, more than double the same period of 2022.
  • Tourism has continued to show its resilience. Revised data for 2022 shows over 960 million tourists travelling internationally last year, meaning two-thirds (66%) of pre-pandemic numbers were recovered.

Recovery by Region in Q1 2023:

  • The Middle East saw the strongest performance as the only region exceeding 2019 arrivals (+15%) and the first to recover pre-pandemic numbers in a full quarter.
  • Europe reached 90% of pre-pandemic levels, driven by strong intra-regional demand.
  • Africa reached 88% and the Americas about 85% of 2019 levels
  • Asia and the Pacific accelerated its recovery with  54% of pre-pandemic levels, but this upward trend is set to accelerate now that most destinations, particularly China, have re-opened.

In many places, we are close to or even above pre-pandemic levels of arrivals

The UNWTO data also analyses recovery by sub-region and by destination: Southern Mediterranean Europe and North Africa have also recovered pre-pandemic levels in Q1 2023, while Western Europe, Northern Europe, Central America and the Caribbean all came close to reaching those levels.

What it Means:

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “The start of the year has shown again tourism’s unique ability to bounce back. In many places, we are close to or even above pre-pandemic levels of arrivals. However, we must remain alert to challenges ranging from geopolitical insecurity, staffing shortages, and the potential impact of the cost-of-living crisis on tourism, and we must ensure tourism’s return delivers on its responsibilities as a solution to the climate emergency and as a driver of inclusive development.”

International tourism receipts grew back to hit the USD1 trillion mark in 2022, growing 50% in real terms compared to 2021, driven by the important rebound in international travel. International visitor spending reached 64% of pre-pandemic levels (-36% compared to 2019, measured in real terms). By regions, Europe enjoyed the best results in 2022 with nearly USD 550 billion in tourism receipts (EUR 520 billion), or 87% of pre-pandemic levels. Africa recovered 75% of its pre-pandemic receipts, the Middle East 70% and the Americas 68%. Due to prolonged border shutdowns, Asian destinations earned about 28%.

Looking Ahead: What’s in Store?

The Q1 2023 results are in line with UNWTO’s forward-looking scenarios for the year which project international arrivals to recover 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels. UNWTO’s Panel of Experts expressed their confidence in a strong peak season (May-August) in the Northern Hemisphere, reflected in the latest UNWTO Confidence Index which indicates performance for the period is on track to be even better than 2022.

However, tourism’s recovery also faces some challenges.  According to the UNWTO Panel of Experts, the economic situation remains the main factor weighing on the effective recovery of international tourism in 2023, with high inflation and rising oil prices translating into higher transport and accommodations costs.  As a result, tourists are expected to increasingly seek value for money and travel closer to home. Uncertainty derived from the Russian aggression against Ukraine and other mounting geopolitical tensions, also continue to represent downside risks.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

hom at InterContinental Phuket Set to Disrupt Southeast Asia’s Fine Dining Scene

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hom at InterContinental Phuket Set to Disrupt Southeast Asia's Fine Dining Scene - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEYXPhuket, Thailand, May 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Harboring a deep commitment to flavour enhancement to showcase the best of each ingredient, hom opens today at InterContinental Phuket Resort. Helmed by Chef Ricardo Nunes, the restaurant is a celebration of ancient fermentation processes that have unified cultures for centuries. Innovative techniques, exceptional talent, and an ethereal setting: hom is set to disrupt Southeast Asia’s fine dining scene The restaurant opened recently at the InterContinental Phuket Resort.

Exceptional Talent
Chef Ricardo Nunes – who previously worked at several Michelin-starred establishments including Potong, Belcanto and Gaggan – is a purveyor of locavorism, seasonality and curiosity. Resident Zymologist, Mateo Polanco, works closely with Chef Ricardo to further develop the intricacies of the fermentation techniques utilised across all dishes and beverages at hom. Chef Ricardo and Mateo have a strong belief in the pursuit of perpetual improvement; this innate curiosity and passion for discovery enables the presentation of endlessly innovative menus.

“The techniques used in the hom kitchen centre around flavour elevation; we will excite curious diners by presenting ingredients in new and inspiring ways, whilst maintaining a respect for the true nature of each ingredient,” said Chef Ricardo Nunes of hom.
The hom team is guided by Restaurant Manager, Peter Lucas. Peter boasts over a decade of experience working in Michelin starred establishments; most recently he was the Restaurant Manager of Baan Tepa in Bangkok and has also worked at the likes of Restaurant Savelberg in Thailand and Ciel Blue in The Netherlands.

Innovative Techniques
Chef Ricardo develops the hom menus by first identifying viable ingredients that grow or live on the island of Phuket – proximity is key. The team then explores how ancient fermentation techniques can be used to maximise flavours, elevating the produce whilst still respecting the true nature of each ingredient. The resulting 10-course tasting menu is well-balanced, thanks to the painstaking detail taken by the hom team. Ultimately, their goal is to surprise curious diners and encourage exploration and discovery. The hom beverage programme will seamlessly complement the food offering.

Protectors and supporters of the local environment, the hom team collaborate closely with local producers. The symbiotic relationship enables knowledge to flow in both directions, ultimately ensuring the safeguarding of local resources and prevention of overproduction.

An Ethereal Setting
The experiential journey begins as soon as guests step foot into the magical InterContinental Phuket Resort. As they journey to the breathtaking Sawan Pavillion, where hom is located, guests are regaled with stories of the resorts’ rich Himmapan past. Inside the pavilion, white and silver tones add to the heavenly feel of the venue, whilst a Monta Flower-inspired chandelier hangs overhead. Prior to departure, a curated memories bag is gifted to each guest. Thoughtful mementos encourage guests to reminisce on their hom experience.

For reservations, please visit www.hom-restaurant.com | Enquiries can be directed to info@hom-restaurant.com | For updates, please follow @homrestaurant on Instagram

Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday; dinner starts at 6:30 pm

About hom
Disrupting Southeast Asia’s fine dining scene, hom is rooted in locavorism and curiosity. Helmed by Executive Chef, Ricardo Nunes, the exceptionally talented team work relentlessly to deliver an impeccable guest experience. Ancient fermentation techniques unlock incredible flavours, whilst maintaining the true essence of ingredients. Set in the heavenly Sawan Pavillion at InterContinental Phuket Resort, hom offers a storied dining journey.

About InterContinental Phuket Resort
Inspired by Phuket’s natural landscape, InterContinental® Phuket Resort is a luxury beachfront hideaway featuring 221 elegantly appointed rooms and villas overlooking the Andaman Sea. The resort’s five restaurant and bars offers contemporary Thai fine-dining at Jaras, international gourmet fare at Pinto, poolside favorites and craft cocktails at Pine beach bar, Japanese cuisine inspired by the ancient techniques and presentation of Osaka’s cooking masters at Tengoku, and organic coffee, tea and delicacies at Devas’ Lounge. Resort facilities include Club InterContinental® Lounge, Sati Spa & Wellness®, 6 swimming pools with breath-taking views, a well-equipped Fitness Centre, tennis court, and Planet Trekkers Kids Club for multi-generational recreation. Located on the secluded part of Kamala Beach, just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, the InterContinental Phuket Resort has already garnered international awards such as ‘2019 Readers Choices – The Best Overseas Hotel’ from Travel + Leisure China ‘2019 Best Overseas Hotel’ from Voyage, China, 2022 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award, and LEED Gold Certification since it’s official opening in November 2019. Visit us online for more about InterContinental Phuket Resort and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter About IHG Hotels & Resorts: IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in over 100 countries, and more than 1,800 in the development pipeline. • Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo • Premium: voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels • Essentials: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels • Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 325,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally. Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards. For our latest news, visit our Newsroom and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MontAzure Phuket Showcases MGallery Residences MontAzure

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MontAzure Phuket Showcases MGallery Residences MontAzure - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netPhuket, Thailand, May 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / MontAzure Phuket, a cutting-edge luxury residential resort development on the island’s upscale sunset coast, is reaching out to investors and home buyers at a special promotional event, Memorable Moment – Awaken to the Phuket Sunshine, at Bangkok’s EmQuartier from 8-14 May 2023. During the event, MontAzure will showcase its flagship MGallery Residences MontAzure.

Nestled in the lush, forested mountains that slope gently towards a stunning beachfront, M Gallery Residences MontAzure is a freehold lakeside condominium within MontAzure. This prime location grants easy access to an exclusive selection of MontAzure facilities. Managed by internationally renowned AccorHotels, the property presents a considerable opportunity for investment returns. The first MGallery Residences in Thailand offers Studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom unit types with a starting price of THB 8.9 million.

Conceptualised by the architects at SODA (Thailand) Ltd and featuring exquisite landscaping by Shma Company Limited, MGallery Residences MontAzure exudes a tranquil, back-to-nature ambience. In addition, the residences boast numerous amenities: leisure and lap pools, children’s pool and play area, pool bar, clubhouse and lobby lounge, fitness centre, yoga and spa facilities, all-day dining restaurant, green deck, starlight deck, relaxation pavilion, and a nature trail with a jogging track.

Special ‘Memorable Moment – Awaken to the Phuket Sunshine’ Offer

Home buyers and investors that reserve their units at the Bangkok event can avail of fantastic offers: a cash discount of up to one million baht, an investment package, a furniture package, a free trip to Phuket and ALL Diamond Membership of AccorHotels – all subject to terms & conditions.

MontAzure, a prime mixed-use residential development with Kamala Beach as its beachfront, is spread over 454 rai (178 acres or 72 hectares) of the mountainside to beachfront land. Within easy reach of both Phuket International Airport and Phuket Town, it includes a beachfront condominium, a resort condominium, InterContinental Phuket Resort, Cafe del Mar, a boutique lifestyle mall, a luxury retirement community and more.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand Travel Mart Plus Underscores Amazing New Chapters

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Thailand Travel Mart Plus Underscores Amazing New Chapters - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, May 5, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand’s leading B2B travel industry show, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2023, is scheduled to take place from 31 May to 2 June at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, with pre- and post-tour programmes showcasing meaningful travel experiences across all five regions of Thailand.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “This year, the TTM+ 2023 will continue to shine a spotlight on the Thai tourism industry’s ongoing efforts towards a meaningful travel direction through the promotion and development of high value and sustainable tourism. As the premier showcase of Thai tourism, this year’s TTM+ will present how we are elevating supply and sustainable standards while leveraging the kingdom’s 5F soft-power foundations of Food, Film, Festival, Fight and Fashion to maintain tourists’ confidence in Thailand as a preferred destination.”

The TTM+ 2023 has been conceptualised in line with the ‘Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters’ marketing campaign, to showcase travel products, services, and experiences that promote Thai cultural values for a meaningful travel experience. It also corresponds with TAT’s strategy to leverage technology and innovation to add value and transform Thai tourism to ‘Smart Tourism’ and accelerate Thailand’s tourism ecosystem to quality and sustainability.

This year’s TTM+ is expected to attract over 850 participants, including 350 buyers from 50 countries, 400 sellers from across all five regions of Thailand, as well as 100 local and international media. Buyers include those from key source markets – Europe, ASEAN, East Asia, America, and Australia – and emerging markets – Eastern Europe, Middle East, South America, and South Africa.

From 31 May-2 June 2023, the scheduled programmes for the TTM+ 2023 include opening ceremony, Thailand product update and TTM Talk for buyers and media, onsite appointment session, welcome reception, and the product update on the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). There are also buyer/seller appointments along with a networking lunch and a business networking happy hour.

There are three pre-tour programmes on 30 and 31 May and six post-tour programmes on 3-5 June. All tour programmes are also conceptualised in line with the TAT’s meaningful travel direction and placing emphasis on experience-based tourism activities, as well as showcasing Thai cultural values through the kingdom’s 5F soft-power foundations.

TAT is also hosting the Amazing Thailand Culinary City event, alongside the TTM+ 2023, during the same dates and at the same venue.

For more information about Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2023, please visit https://thaitravelmartplus.com/

About the TTM+
First held in 2001, the TTM+ has gained a well-earned reputation in visitor source markets the world over, and within Thailand’s tourism industry itself, as a ‘must-attend’ event. This year, the TTM+ 2023 is all set to continue the tradition of providing a valuable platform for sellers and buyers to meet with current and potential business partners and to reinforce relationships with global travel specialists and decision-makers.

First held in 2001, and took place mostly in Bangkok each year since its launch, the TTM+ was relocated to Chiang Mai in 2016 – 17, Pattaya in 2018 – 19, and then Phuket in 2022 as part of the TAT’s strategy to promote provincial destinations.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Trisara Strengthens Meaningful Ties with Special Rates on Residences

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Trisara Strengthens Meaningful Ties with Special Rates on Residences - TRAVELINDEX - VISITPHUKET - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comPhuket, Thailand, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Residential villas provide the perfect setting for gatherings with families and friends. Trisara, one of Thailand’s finest resorts, is offering families and groups of friends the opportunity to bond in style this summer courtesy of special rates on its signature residences.

Trisara is adding sparkle to deals on the show stopping units, all of which feature a private chef and butler.

A hideaway in Phuket’s unspoiled northwestern corner, Trisara (which translates from Sanskrit to ‘the garden in the third heaven’) is regarded as one of the most desirable addresses on the paradise Thai island. With each of its luxury suites and villas featuring a pool as well as widescreen ocean views, total privacy is both achievable and desirable.

Perched directly over the property’s private bay, Trisara’s collection of residences — which range in size from two-bed units to multi-bedroom configurations—rank among the most spectacular in Thailand.

Expansive suites, sea-facing verandahs, and extensive swimming pools are prominent in the residences’ blend of indoor and outdoor spaces that lend themselves to intimate gatherings.

Each residential villa is cared for by a dedicated maid and chef who prepare home-cooked Thai and Western dishes on demand and by request.

Its signature two-bedroom villas, for example, which offer exclusive access to an 18-metre infinity pool, are available for a nightly rate starting at $2900++. The price includes breakfast and a return airport transfer from Phuket International Airport.

The largest of the residences is Villa Sawan, an eight-bedroom “resort within a resort”. Home to ocean-facing views, lush gardens, and use of a cove with a private beach at the foot of the property, Villa Sawan is the ultimate exclusive escape. Take a dip in the Andaman Sea or unwind by swimming laps in the 25-metre swimming pool. Staff are available and on-call throughout the stay. The villa also features a home cinema, a well-equipped gym, and spa facilities. The villa also provides an abundance of space, which is perfect for private gatherings, particularly around the main private swimming pool and in the outside lounge and dining areas. It is available during the summer season for a nightly rate starting at $8000++.

With privacy guaranteed, the residences are perfect for celebrations with extended family or with groups of friends. Indeed, they offer prime opportunities for bringing people together in an era where the distance between loved ones has been both pointed and poignant.

“The pandemic has enhanced our appreciation of spending quality time with loved ones,” says Kittisak “Kitt” Pattamasaevi, the CEO of Montara Hospitality Group, the owners of Trisara. “There’s also been a heightened awareness of the wonder of nature and how important it is to our collective wellbeing.”

“Keeping those factors in mind, our residences allow larger groups to connect in unique residences with harmony with nature, allowing for a sense of reconnection, privacy, and the ultimate in luxury relaxation.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts New Culinary Team at Michelin-Starred Esterre

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Palace Hotel Tokyo Debuts New Culinary Team at Michelin-Starred Esterre - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comTokyo, Japan, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As international travelers flock to Japan following its re-opening, Michelin-starred Esterre continues to refine its culinary appeal in the star-studded Michelin capital of the world with the appointments of Kei Kojima as chef de cuisine and Normand Jubin as chef pâtissier.

Esterre, which was launched in partnership with DUCASSE Paris in late 2019, is rooted in the flavors of Japan’s terroir – taking a contemporary approach to French haute cuisine that aims to showcase the original flavors of the highest-quality local ingredients using French culinary techniques.

Having spent over two decades under the tutelage of Alain Ducasse’s right-hand, Frank Cerutti, Kei Kojima is the perfect fit as chef de cuisine at what is his fourth eatery by Ducasse. Prior to taking the helm at Esterre, Kojima spent five years honing his skills at the Michelin three-starred Le Louis XV at Monte Carlo’s famed Hôtel de Paris, including three as its sous chef. In 2006, he returned to Japan to teach at Le Centre de Formation d’Alain Ducasse in Tokyo, a culinary school for professionals, and had a stint at Benoit bistro before segueing to Beige, a restaurant born from a collaboration between DUCASSE Paris and Chanel’s flagship boutique in Tokyo’s glitzy Ginza district. He played an instrumental role in elevating Beige to its two-Michelin-star status during the more than a dozen years he spent there.

Based in Kamakura – the zen-imbued, beachside town on the outskirts of Tokyo where he continues to reside – Kojima visits the local market every morning to select the freshest ingredients for Esterre before commuting into the city. Having long embraced the concept of drawing from the natural flavors of land and sea by sourcing sustainable, organic ingredients and highlighting the purity and elegant simplicity of their natural flavors, he has been described by Ducasse as “the Japanese chef who understands and practices my culinary philosophy more than any other in the world.”

Just like the town he hails from, Kojima exudes a calmness and a reverence for nature that comes through in his cooking – a notion that is also woven into Esterre’s interior design. Design studio SIMPLICITY, founded by award-winning Japanese interior designer Shinichiro Ogata, originally conceived the space as a tribute to nature.

An earthy color palette and such tactile materials as washi (traditional Japanese paper), textile and wood were chosen to create an ambiance that evokes a sense of harmony between people and nature. Also key to the design concept was an elegant simplicity that would allow patrons to dine, converse and soak in the expansive views of the surrounding Imperial Palace gardens without distraction.

Esterre has consistently achieved a one-star standing ever since it drew the attention of Michelin Guide. Like Kojima, 26-year-old Chef Pâtissier Normand Jubin brings with him notable Michelin experience, having previously acted as chef de partie at the renowned, three-star Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville in Crissier, Switzerland and, most recently, as pastry chef at the one-star Pelagos at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens in Greece.

A Swiss native, Jubin is the third generation in a family of confectioners behind Jubin Confiseur, a boulangerie-patisserie-confiserie-in-one with a trio of locations throughout Switzerland. It was there, in his grandfather’s and father’s kitchen, where as a child, Jubin began cultivating his passion and know-how for baking, pastry-making and the art of confectionery.

New to Japan, Jubin is embracing the country’s distinct seasons with his dessert presentations and endeavoring to bring more depth and art to what is presented, whether it brings guests back to the familiar flavors and textures of their childhood or stirs up more recent memories of their time in Japan. His spring dessert of ‘crispy and iced buckwheat, torrefied vanilla and anise’, for example, takes inspiration from the three-swirl mitsudomoe symbol that has caught his eye while visiting shrines.

As Esterre’s menu changes with the seasons, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s award-winning Chef Sommelier Takamasa Sato meticulously studies the flavors of every dish before deciding on which pairings to recommend for each course – whether guests prefer alcoholic or non-alcoholic options. With a wine cellar that boasts some 4,800 bottles and encompasses over 500 vintages – of which French labels dominate – there’s no shortage of options to choose from, including a selection of organic, natural and bio-wines.

For Chef Kojima’s vibrant and flavorful ‘roasted sujiara with winter gourd, courgette and black olive marmalade’ that’s on the summer signature prix-fixe menu, Sato suggests a pairing with Château Jun’s Koshu, a domestically produced white wine made with koshu grapes, a varietal that has been grown in Japan for more than 1,000 years. And for the dish’s non-alcoholic pairing, a seasonal mocktail featuring a blend of white grape juice with the umami-rich flavors of premium Royal Blue Tea is suggested.

For Jubin’s refreshing summer dessert of ‘kiwi and tarragon delight with ginger and goat milk emulsion’, Sato recommends a pairing with the Alain Ducasse Sparkling Sake conceived by DUCASSE Paris Chef Sommelier Gerard Margeon and Ryogo Kitahara, master brewer at Maison Shichiken in Yamanashi prefecture. Alternatively, Belgium’s Duc de Montagne non-alcoholic sparkling wine presents an equally refreshing and sophisticated alternative.

As Japan experiences a travel renaissance, Esterre’s team plans to continue heightening the dining experience and playing their part in ensuring Tokyo keeps its crown as the Michelin capital of the world.

Esterre’s prix-fixe lunch options start from JPY 12,000 and prix-fixe dinners from JPY 22,000 per person. Wine pairings start at JPY 6,000 for two glasses.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fusion Appoints Three New General Managers in Vietnam

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Fusion Appoints Three New General Managers in VietnamHo Chi MInh City, Vietnam, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As Fusion continues to expand its reach throughout Vietnam, the hotel group has made a trio of management appointments in several of its key properties.

Marc Bittner becomes Fusion Hotel Group Director of Operations and General Manager of Fusion Original Saigon Centre

Fusion Hotel Group’s new Director of Operations and General Manager of Fusion Original Saigon Centre embodies the company’s spirit of vitality. The Canadian & French citizen has over a decade of experience working in some of Asia’s most luxurious hotels, including Fusion’s Maia Resort Quy Nhon, where he joined as the pre-opening General Manager in 2019.

With a career that has had him living around Asia and North America, Marc speaks multiple languages in addition to his native tongues, English and French. Prior to joining Fusion, he was General Manager of a luxury resort in Indonesia. He has a strong background in food & beverage, having started his hospitality career as a sommelier and holding positions as head sommelier, beverage manager, and director of food & beverage.

“With his prior Fusion experience, Marc brings with him a solid knowledge of our business, brand, and corporate office as he steps into the role of director of operations,” said Peter Meyer, CEO of Lodgis and Fusion Hotel Group. “In addition to his broad range of experience throughout Asia will be an asset as he helps set Fusion’s strategy and streamlines business operations.”

Fusion appoints Juliana Liew as General Manager of Fusion Suites Vung Tau

Juliana Liew steps into her third General Manager role as she makes the move from Fusion Suites Saigon to the coastal city of Vung Tau, where she will be managing the brand’s flagship Fusion Suites property. Originally from Malaysia, Juliana has held key management positions in her home and Mauritius before relocating to Vietnam in 2017. With a strong background in Sales and Marketing, she will be instrumental in successfully driving results and elevating property performance while playing a pivotal role in achieving operational excellence and delivering outstanding guest experiences.

“Juliana is an asset to the Fusion team having expertly navigated Fusion Suites Saigon through the pandemic,” said Peter Meyer, CEO of Lodgis and Fusion Hotel Group. “In this new role, she will have the opportunity to flex her skills in this popular oceanside destination.”

Fusion appoints Jakub Sippl as General Manager of Maia Resort Quy Nhon

A seasoned hospitality professional with a wealth of food & beverage and management experience has joined the Fusion team to lead the group’s inaugural culinary-focused property, Maia Resort Quy Nhon. Jakub Sippl, the Czech-native began his career in the restaurant industry nearly two decades ago on the island of Malta before pursuing a hospitality career that has brought him to the Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam where he has most recently based in Phu Quoc.

“Jakub brings to his new role a strong background in food & beverage management, as well experience in managing of large-scale events and luxury properties,” said Peter Meyer, CEO of Lodgis and Fusion Hotel Group. “As General Manager of Maia Resort Quy Nhon, Jakub’s expertise will play an important role in elevating Maia’s culinary-focused programs and services to new heights.”

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Wins in Top 30 Bars Cambodia Awards

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Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Wins in Top 30 Bars Cambodia Awards - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The iconic Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal won four honors at the “Top 30 Bars Cambodia” awards for 2023, earning recognition for its signature cocktails, impeccable service and distinctive special events.

The outlet was recognized as the “Top Bar of the Year” in the awards, which were announced on March 30. It was also named one of the “Top 30 Bars in Cambodia” and landed two honors for “Top Bar Team of the Year” in separate awards presented by Heineken and Chivas Regal.

“The Elephant Bar is a long-time institution in Phnom Penh,” General Manager Dennis de Groot said. “Over the past nine decades, we’ve welcomed the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Jacqueline Kennedy, who sipped our first Femme Fatale, which is now a signature cocktail.”

The awards were announced as the bar introduces many unique special events this year.

The World Gin Tour, launched in January, showcases highlights from one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and thoughtfully curated gin collections, with more than 150 labels. Each month introduces a new special cocktail menu featuring refreshing drinks made with a different country’s gin, in addition to a “gin masterclass” that includes cocktail flights for two hours highlighting the featured gin (priced at $28).

Additionally, Elephant Bar’s popular “bar takeover” series has welcomed top regional bartenders, such as Wong Wee Siong of the renowned Smoke & Mirrors rooftop cocktail bar in Singapore who mixed exclusive drinks for Elephant Bar patrons in April.

In March, Raffles Hotel Le Royal hosted the Confrérie du Sabre d’Or, the worldwide organization dedicated to the noble art of Champagne sabrage. The group is globally renowned among Champagne aficionados for the ritual, which involves severing the top of the bottle with a sword.

Elephant Bar exudes timeless charm and sophistication with its rich wood accents, colorful ceiling frescoes and historic photographs on the walls, while wicker chairs and leather sofas bask behind high French windows and arched colonnades in true colonial style.

Voted the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia by readers of the US-based travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards in October, Raffles Hotel Le Royal originally opened in 1929. The hotel features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019.

For more information or to make a booking, call 023 981 888

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Holiday Inn Siracha Laemchabang Unveils New Meeting and Wedding Packages

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Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang Unveils New Meeting and Wedding Packages - TRAVELINDEXSiracha, Laemchabang, Thailand, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang in Siracha, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, today launches new meeting and wedding packages featuring 7 fully equipped meeting rooms in Siracha for both social and professional occasions. Located in Siracha in Chonburi province, the hotel provides contemporary, comfortable guest rooms and meeting rooms that can accommodate small groups of 10 people to large groups of up to 350 guests with the meeting space covers over 591 sqm, providing a premier setting for events of all sizes.

The hotel’s “Meet with Confidence” package offers THB 1,500 per standard room with breakfast and wifi, a free room when booking 20 rooms or more, and a free upgrade to the next category when booking 20 rooms or more. The hotel’s meeting offers include a full-day meeting package for THB 1,250 per person, a half-day meeting package for THB 1,000 per person, and a coffee break package for THB 550 per person. These packages include the meeting room, a coffee break that guests can choose for 7 days, 7 themes (for at least 40 persons), a free Thai dessert booth LIVE station when paying in advance THB 100,000, full HD TV, sound, AV projector, and free drinking water, mints, coffee, and tea. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Additional activities, such as mangrove planting (subject to season and tide) and planting staghorn coral, are available for THB 360 net per person and THB 2,600 net per unit, respectively. The hotel’s “Simply The Best” wedding showcase takes place from May 22-28, 2023, at the hotel lobby and ballroom on the 6th floor, and guests can enjoy privileges with freebies. Guests can pre-register via

In addition, bookers can also earn with IHG Business Rewards, earning three points per $1 USD when booking accommodations, meetings, or events at nearly 6,000 participating IHG Hotels & Resorts worldwide.

The hotel is just a 1.5-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport and 20 minutes from the famous beach resort Pattaya. The property has an all-day dining restaurant serving authentic Thai and international cuisine, a lobby bar, a poolside bar and snack menu. Families can make the most of the Holiday Inn signature “Kids Eat & Stay Free” program, plus the hotel’s iconic 25-metre lap pool, sauna, and private onsen at its fitness club.

For more information and reservations, please call 033 251 699

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Krabi Floats New Luxury Longtail Boat to Guests

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Banyan Tree Krabi Floats New Luxury Longtail Boat to Guests - TRAVELINDEXKrabi, Thailand, May 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Visitors heading to Thailand in search of a desert island paradise may be one step closer to fulfilling that dream if they venture towards Krabi and the secluded Tubkaek Beach, where one resort, Banyan Tree Krabi, has unveiled a luxurious new longtail boat, manned and ready for those who seek serenity upon a sapphire sea.

The White Pearl was built by local craftsmen using materials sourced from around Krabi Province, and with specific modifications to enhance luxury and comfort on board. The boat will cater to day trips and island hopping, not only for guests at Banyan Tree Krabi but for private bookings. The White Pearl is ideal for a romantic getaway for two, but can take up to eight passengers.

Visitors can choose from either a half-day longtail boat trip to nearby Koh Hong or a full-day (eight-hour) “4 Islands Tour” among the tranquil islets of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park.

While few travellers will recognise the name of the national marine park, most will recognize the iconic picture postcard of the limestone cliffs that jut majestically from the Andaman Sea, popularised in the 1970s’ James Bond movie, The Man With the Golden Gun, and more recently in The Beach, starring Leonardo di Caprio.

However, while locations such as Maya Beach and Ko Phi Phi have become inundated with tourists in recent years, the 4 Islands have eluded the crowds. Uninhabited but for sea birds, monkeys and monitor lizards, it is in these bays that The White Pearl anchors, allowing guests the opportunity to swim and snorkel in serene undisturbed clear waters.

Perhaps the best known of the four islands is Koh Hong, which faces Tubkaek Beach, and is famed for its volcanic lagoon in the centre of the island, providing Instagrammers and influencers with some of the most idyllic and celebrated beach snaps of all time.

All day trips on The White Pearl include fresh coconut, fruit and soft drinks, snorkelling equipment, life vests, toilets, and an English-speaking Boat Host.

Each of the 72 suites and villas at Banyan Tree Krabi faces west to the sunset and the islands mentioned.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE
Banyan Tree Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-brand hospitality groups centred on stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences for the global travellers of today and tomorrow. The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences is centred around an ecosystem of 10 global brands, including the award-winning Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia, Dhawa and Laguna, as well as the highly anticipated new brands of Homm, Garrya, Folio and two new Banyan Tree brand extensions, Banyan Tree Escape and Banyan Tree Veya.

Founded in 1994 on the core concept of sustainability, Banyan Tree Group seeks to create long-term value for all stakeholders and destinations across its network of properties, products and brands, through a purpose-driven mission. With 8,000 associates across 23 countries, Banyan Tree Management Academy (BTMA) was established in 2008 to support the Group’s goals through advancing people development, management excellence, and learning with integrity and meaning.

 Banyan Tree Group has received 2,921 industry awards and accolades since inception over 25 years ago, most recently being named among the Top 25 Hotel Brands in the World by Travel + Leisure. It has also received recognition for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation (BTGF), which aligns the Group’s efforts to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Executing on its regionalised growth strategy, the Group’s global footprint continues to grow with 47 new hotels and resorts under design and construction in the pipeline, in addition to 58 operating hotels in 17 countries as of December 2021. As a global industry hospitality leader, Banyan Tree Group firmly embeds its mission to be a business that benefits all stakeholders, for the greater good.

Banyan Tree Group entered a strategic long-term partnership with Accor in 2016 to develop and manage Banyan Tree branded hotels around the world along with the access to Accor’s global reservations and sales network, as well as the loyalty programme ALL – Accor Live Limitless. It also formed a joint venture with China Vanke Co. Ltd. in 2017 – focusing on active ageing and wellness hospitality projects.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News