Global Travel News

A NEW PATH IN BATH: From Frankenstein to Bridgerton, roam beyond the Roman ruins

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Call it “Another Side of Britain,” or “icons with a twist,” but VisitBritain is urging visitors, and those who send them there, to look at the destination with fresh eyes, and beyond the tried and true.

A prime example would be the city of Bath – a popular mainstay on the traditional tourist trail, not least a third of the popular Windsor-Stonehenge-Bath day-trip route from London.

A whimsical mix of cobblestone streets, historical sites, and romantic architectural styles, Bath is famed for its history and natural hot springs – the latter two coming together with the founding of a spa by the Romans in 70 AD that is still attracting visitors over 2,000 years later – and is the centre of the city’s sightseeing experience.

Not unrelated, Bath is the only destination in the UK where the entire city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

However, there are other sides to Bath that don’t revolve around the Roman spa ruins/museum.

Notable among them is literary and cinematic Bath, where names like Jane Austen and Mary Shelley – and most recently “Bridgerton” – share the spotlight.

The latter Netflix smash currently leads the way, having snatched attention from “Downton Abbey” among Anglophiles, and increasingly prompting fans to visit Bath, where the city stands in for Regency-era London (1813) for filmmakers, in part due its stunning Georgian architecture.

Billie-Jo Rainbird of Bath Adventures says the company’s guided 90-minute Bridgerton-themed walking tour is becoming more and more popular as Season 3 looms later this year, especially with North Americans, as fans look to keep up with Penelope and Colin, and see the real-life backdrops to their cinematic romance.

The tour through Bath’s cobbled streets is a leisurely one with plenty of time for photo opportunities and taking in the views, as well as stopping to hear about some behind-the-scenes gossip of the series and the filming process.

Points of interest on the tour include the Featherington’s house, Madame Delacroix’s shop, and Lady Danbury’s house, all while headphones serenade with the music and sounds of the hit series, as well as other tunes from an eclectic list of artists curated by Rainbird, based on having performed in Bath over the years.

As for the soundtrack, which includes the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and Coldplay, and commentary on the city that extends beyond the TV show, Rainbird laughs, “It is a ‘Bath and Bridgerton’ tour, so we get a lot of partners (who aren’t necessarily fans of the show) dragged along.”

Rainbird notes that Bath Adventures (riveradventures.co.uk.) will work with travel agents.

 

Bath Adventures’ “Bath & Bridgerton tour

Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein

More gruesome than genteel, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein invites visitors to immerse themselves in author Mary Shelley’s complex and often tragic past and uncover the true story behind the “monster” she brought to life in 1818, having written much of the gothic classic in Bath.

Extending over four engaging floors, including a “dank foreboding basement,”
the award-winning, multi-sensory visitor attraction – which goes beyond a Ripley’s Believe It or Not-style venue – is nevertheless bursting with unusual artefacts, ominous soundtracks, bespoke smells, and special effects, including a 2.5-m. animatronic breathing creature, authentically reproduced exactly as described in the novel by Shelley (banner photo) – which is to say minus the bolts and green skin attributed to Herman Munster-style depictions.

But it also tells the tragic story of Shelley’s life, including a troubled teenage marriage, non-conformity (she was vegetarian, for example), and struggles as a female author in a male-dominated society.

The House also features two rooms illustrating the legacy of her novel in popular culture (enter the neck bolts and green skin), plus an intimate screening room showing the first ever Frankenstein film from 1910, a Frankenstein-themed Escape Room, The Body In A Suitcase challenge, and, for braver visitors, an edgy walkthrough experience in the basement.

Groups can arrange also cocktails at the aptly-named “Bloody Mary Bar.”

Jane Austen Centre

Meanwhile, nearly next door to Mary Shelley’s place, the considerably less horrifying Jane Austen Centre pays homage to the another of Britain’s greatest and most enduring writers – who authored “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility,” among other literary classics, during time spent in Bath.

Visitors can enjoy the talks, displays and activities centred on the celebrated novels of the rector’s daughter, which commented and critiqued the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century, also commonly and uniquely (for the time) offering early feminist themes. Not quite as extensive or, by nature, as colourful as Frankenstein House, a visit to the Austen Centres is best topped off with a cup of tea at the Regency Tea Room, including being served by staff in period costume, to complete the experience.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Feb. 6-10, 2023

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More protests rocked France on the weekend; Crystal cruise line is back and set to sail again this summer; there was more news about NEXUS; a new tourism day gained UN approval; and Sunwing said ‘I do’ again to its popular annual destination weddings guide.

NEWS

Police were out in force across France on Saturday as nearly a million people turned out for a fourth round of nationwide demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to reform the country’s pension system. This time, though, rail worker strikes did not accompany the demonstrations, allowing trains and the Paris Metro to run Saturday, however, an unexpected strike by air traffic controllers meant that up to half of flights to and from Paris’ second largest airport, Orly, were cancelled Saturday afternoon. A further strike is planned for Thursday (Feb. 16).

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution to have Feb. 17 officially declared Global Tourism Resilience Day, which will be celebrated for the first time next week. Pioneered by Jamaica, the initiative was supported by over 90 countries. The special day will be held each year.

In his State of the Union address last week, US president Joe Biden took aim at the travel industry, reiterating that he would stop airlines from charging fees “junk fees,” including up to $50 in order to sit families together, saying that children were being treated like luggage. He also wants to ban hidden resort fees that can cost up to $90 a night at hotels. “Americans are tired of being played for suckers,” he said.

Starting this spring, US border agents will interview NEXUS applicants at select Canadian airports before boarding a US-bound flight. That will happen only after applicants take part in a separate, appointment-only interview with Canadian agents at a NEXUS airport enrolment centre. The Canada Border Services Agency and US Customs and Border Protection are urging travellers to allow extra time for the US interview, which will not require an appointment. Eligible airports – where passengers can pre-clear US customs – are in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, and Winnipeg.

RETAIL

To meet considerably increased demand in cruise inquiry and bookings, Flight Centre says it has created a dedicated cruise specialist team, and at the same time has launched a major marketing campaign time to coincide with Wave Season. “The demand for cruise travel is clear and definitive,” says Brian McLaren, EVP Flight Centre Canada, who notes that more than 60% of cruises are booked through travel agents.

BY THE NUMBERS

Dubai received 14.36 million international overnight visitors in 2022, nearly doubling year over year from the 7.28 million tourist arrivals in 2021, according to the latest data published by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Average occupancy for the hotel sector in 2022 stood at 73%, one of the highest in the world, rising from 67% in 2021. The figure is just short of the 75% occupancy in the pre-pandemic period of 2019.

AIR

Air France is continuing to increase capacity to Canada – the carrier’s second largest long-haul market – including new service between Paris and Ottawa (starting June 27); the resumption of seasonal service to Quebec City (May 2), introduced last summer; and increased frequencies to other gateways. In summer 2023, Air France will operate up to 50 weekly flights to five destinations: Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver (destinations served year-round by Air France), along with new and resumed services to Ottawa and Quebec.

Porter Airlines conducted its first flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Vancouver YVR Feb. 8, marking the launch of service to Western Canada for the first time in the company’s 16-year history.

Lynx launched its inaugural flight to Phoenix Feb. 7 from Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) today. The airline will operate three flights per week between the cities.

DEALS

Special pricing and discount offers are available to Canadians heading to Myrtle Beach during the South Carolina destination’s upcoming CAN-AM Days, which will run March 11-19. The 62nd annual event allows visitors from Canada to take advantage of an array of exclusive offers, many of which extend beyond the dates of the festival. For additional info and a full listing of deals, visit HERE.

TOURS

Uluru

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia is set to launch a breathtaking, fully immersive light and sound show at Ayers Rock Resort in May. Combining ancient Anangu storytelling with state-of-the-art laser light technology, the experience features more than 1,000 luminous drones taking flight each night to lift the ancient images to the sky. Two Wintjiri Wiru sound and light shows will run every night from March until December. The signature experience will be the three-hour Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner (A$385), followed by a gourmet dinner hamper celebrating native ingredients and paired with premium Australian wines, and includes resort transfers. A second one hour-long experience including light refreshments costs A$190 p.p.

Through Feb. 28, Goway is offering savings of $470 p.p. on its “Australia & New Zealand Combo” tour. Ideal for first-timers to the destinations, the 11-day tour includes Sydney and Auckland, first-class accommodation throughout, and Air Zealand flights from Vancouver.

HOTELS

The newly reimagined and revitalized 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. has unveiled The Spa at Q, a 1,100-sq.-m. environment with extensive amenities and treatment options, including a wellness hydrotherapy circuit unique to the Niagara region. The “star attraction” of the facility allows guests to follow a self-guided circuit with stops at a hot plunge pool, sensory shower, cedar-lined sauna, warm pool, eucalyptus steam room and concluding in a “snow room” (a first in Canada). For bookings made by Feb. 18 for stays through April 6, guests receive a $124 resort credit that can be used at the spa, or on food and beverage.

Now open is Hilton Santa Marta, the brand’s second hotel in Colombia’s oldest Hispanic city. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the contemporary 261-room property is within walking distance from the beach and conveniently located near the mountains of Sierra Nevada and the ancient ruins of Tayrona National Natural Park. It is 13 km form the Old Town and 6 km from the airport. The newly constructed hotel features five unique dining experiences, meeting and event space and an array of amenities.

RESORTS

The 10th anniversary edition of Wedding Vacations by Sunwing, an artistic compilation of tips, tricks and destination insights for couples planning their upcoming weddings in the tropics, has been released. The guide reveals “breathtaking” destinations to say “I do,” along with in-depth interviews with industry pros, including Sunwing Weddings’ expert consultants; wedding-week swimwear picks and other style advice; destination wedding trends, including lighting and décor; wedding favours; eco-friendly ideas for a green destination wedding; VIP bachelor and bachelorette party ideas; and much more. Check it out HERE.

Now open is the new 330-all-suite Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort, situated between top-rated Eagle Beach and the scenic lagoon of the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. The opening marks the first Embassy Suites by Hilton property in Aruba and second Hilton hotel on the island. Located 10 km. from the Queen Beatrix International Airport, the resort is also a short ride from the nightlife of Palm Beach.

CRUISE

Crystal Cruises has officially relaunched under new ownership with the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony vessels set to sail again beginning this summer. The high-end cruise line ceased operations in early 2022, but now Crystal is back with a new vision – dubbed ‘Exceptional at Sea’ – and itineraries for 2023 and 2024, under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent (the A&K Travel Group), which acquired the Serenity and Symphony in 2022. The first sailings (bookings open this month) will be a Mediterranean cruise on Crystal Serenity on July 31 from Marseille, while Crystal Symphony is scheduled to depart Sept. 1 from Athens.

The second annual “Rivers of the World” cruise for 2024 from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will depart Oct. 3, 2024, from Lima, Peru. The 55-day journey will take 68 guests to 10 countries across three continents aboard four different Super Ships. The trip begins in the Peruvian Amazon, continues through the rivers of Europe, and concludes in Southeast on the Mekong River. Prices start at US$49,399 p.p.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

‘Journey of Water,’ inspired by Moana, will open in late-2023 within World Nature, the EPCOT neighbourhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty, awe, and balance of the natural world. The all-ages attraction at Walt Disney World in Orlando will allow guests to explore and engage with water as it travels from the skies to the oceans and back again.

By March 31, all LEGOLAND Resorts in North America will receive Certified Autism Centre (CAC) distinction. As part of this certification, all employees will be highly trained to ensure any visitors on the autism spectrum or with other sensory disorders can enjoy the best possible visit. Specially designed on-site offerings include quiet rooms, sensory guides, and low sensory areas.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

To celebrate the release of its new planner, Air Canada Vacations’ ‘Europe Toolkit – Travel Agent Contest’ gives agents booking a Flight & Hotel package, tour, or Epackage to Europe by April 20 a chance to win one of two prizes for two: A 9-day ‘Italy Express Europe Tour’ package departing on Oct. 15, 2023 from Toronto, and Oct. 19, from Montreal. Winners will be announced on May 15, 2023. More bookings (made between Feb. 1 and April 30 for travel through Dec. 31) mean more chances to win. Register bookings HERE.

EVENTS

VISIT FLORIDA has announced that Florida Huddle and Encounter 2024 will take place July 29-31, 2024, at the Miami Beach Convention Centre, hosted in partnership with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

VisitBritain has promoted Gavin Landry to International Director, leading the strategic direction of global teams working alongside a group of C-suite executives based in London. He will remain based in New York City. Paul Gauger now steps into the role of Executive VP, The Americas, Australia and New Zealand, also based in New York.

DESTINATIONS

The Rouen Armada sailing ships and the Rouen Cathedral

Some 50 tall ships from all over the world will be moored along the 7 km of the Seine quay in Rouen, France, for 10 days from June 8 to 18 for a tourist festival that takes place only every four years. The Rouen Armada is a unique international maritime event that attracts 6 million visitors, more than 30 nationalities, and nearly 7,000 sailors. Attendees can visit the tall ships free of charge and there are numerous events, including the sailors’ parade in the city centre, the sailors’ race, the “boat” race, street performances, concerts, fireworks, the grand parade and much more. Rouen is a port city in northwestern France located about 125 km from Paris.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Miami Health & Wellness Months are underway. Through March 31, the program features discounts on wellness and self-care activities, treatments, and experiences. More than 60 offers are listed at MiamiTemptations.com.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1908, the first around-the-world automobile race began in New York. Six cars – three French, one American, one Italian and one German – were entered in the race that ended in Paris on July 26. The American car won.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fusion Sparks Romance in Vietnam this Valentine’s Day

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Fusion Sparks Romance in Vietnam this Valentine's Day - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam, February 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Wellness-inspired hotel brand Fusion is making sure all is more than well with couples this Valentine’s Day through a range of romantic offerings at their properties in Vietnam. From completing a Love Challenge at the group’s natural hot spring resort in Hue to soaking in an insta-worthy floating tub, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate that special someone come mid-February.

Complete a Love Challenge in Hue
Exercise, mindful practices, and thrill-seeking activities make up the 24-hour Love Challenge at Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion. The team at the natural hot springs resort has selected several of their most popular activities to create a Valentine’s Day stay that feeds mind, body, and soul. The challenges include a 560m zip line, a high-wire course, a yoga class, a couples’ massage, a romantic destination dinner in the lush surrounding jungle or by the water, a soak in a natural hot spring under the stars, and a leisurely in-room breakfast. Couples are given 24 hours to complete all these activities and they must do them all together. If they do, they’ll be rewarded with a certificate. For one-night, with late checkout, the Love Challenge package starts at VND 6,330,000 per one bedroom bungalow, or VND 4,790,000 per deluxe or premium deluxe room.

Ignite Amour in Quy Nhon
If one way to the heart routes through the stomach, guests of Fusion Hotel Group’s gastronomy-focused property Maia Resort Quy Nhon are getting a head start when it comes to love. Maiamour, the resort’s recently unveiled package, is designed for couples and blends wellness and cuisine over the course of a three-night stay. The stay is inclusive of an array of personalized offerings including Once Upon a Table, a four-course chef’s table-style experience served in the resort’s intimate specialty restaurant, ad hoc, or Destination Dining which can be enjoyed on the powdery sands of Phuong Mai Bay or in-villa. Daily pre-dinner sunset cocktails are also included as is a one-time artisanal afternoon tea set. Maia’s seaside spa, Vẽla, invites couples to enjoy a signature 90-minute wellness journey inclusive of an infrared sauna therapy session, body rejuvenation rituals inclusive of massages, healing therapies or anti-ageing facial care treatments. Carefully appointed in-villa décor, including a customized floral arrangement and romantic bath ritual, are also part of the Maiamour offering. Rates start at VND 23,7000,000 for a three-night stay.

For more details regarding inclusions or rates, please contact the Reservations Department.

Soak in Some Romance in Saigon
Stevie Wonder’s “My Cherie Amour,” may be the perfect tune to play on repeat while enjoying Fusion’s signature hammock tub at Fusion Suites Saigon. Two nights in the Corner Suite Room, with 180-degree floor-to-ceiling windows and an insta-worthy bath, is the core element of the hotel’s “Ma Cherie” romance package. The limited-time stay includes flower decoration (on the bed or in the tub), a bouquet of roses, a bottle of wine and one daily spa treatment per guest. Rates start at USD 342 for two-nights, inclusive of breakfast. Ma Cherie is available for stays until the end of February.

Float Away in a Fantasy in Cam Ranh
From sunrise to sunset (and beyond) the oceanfront property, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh, is making sure there are plenty of opportunities for romance. Couples who book a pool villa can begin the day with a floating breakfast enjoyed in their own private plunge pool. During the day, relaxing spa treatments and wellness activities, such as yoga and meditation, are available to guests at no additional fee given Fusion’s all-spa-inclusive concept. As night falls a romantic dinner on the sandy shores in front of the resort is on offer to mark the special day. Room rates start from VND 8,499,000, inclusive of a spa treatment per person per night.  Floating Breakfasts are available for VND 500,000 net per tray and the Romantic Beach Dinner is VND 2,700,000 net per person.

Get Daring in Ho Chi Minh City
Fusion’s newest property, Fusion Original Saigon Centre, will mark its first Valentine’s Day with all of the special day’s romantic trimmings. At Miss Thu, the bold and playful restaurant at the new property, guests can book a 5-course menu ‘The Daring Love’ while taking in views of Saigon’s glittering skyline and listening to a live acoustic band. The menu features such aphrodisiacs as fresh oysters and velvety chocolate, along with indulgent dishes such as wagyu beef. To continue the dare, couples can book, ‘My Daring Love’ to enjoy a night in a Premium Deluxe room, inclusive of breakfast with a view, romantic welcome amenities of artisanal chocolate and sparkling wine, a complimentary mini-bar and reload pantry (where they can help themselves to fresh fruit, delicacies, detox water, energy bars, artisanal tea and coffee). ‘Dare to Upgrade’ includes all the benefits of ‘My Daring Love’ with the addition of 24-hour room usage, access to their relaxation space The Nest Lounge, and an Imperial Facial Treatment for two. My Daring Love starts at VND 6.890.000 ++/room/night, Dare to Upgrade begins at VND 3,600,000++/room/night, and the special Valentine’s course menu at Miss Thu is VND 1,800,000++/person.

Sky high love in Vung Tau
Situated on the 19th floor of Fusion Suites Vung Tau, Fresh Restaurant offers some of the best views in the city. However this Valentine’s Day guests will be just as taken by the views within. The restaurant will be aglow with candlelight and each table will be decorated with rose petals as the talented chefs serve up a multi-course menu. To top off the experience each guest will receive a gift box and be serenaded by a violin performance. The special menu is VND 999,000 net/pax. Couples who wish to stay the night get a 20% discount on rooms if dinner is booked.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels Receive 2023 Traveller Review Awards

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Meliá Hotels Receive 2023 Traveller Review Awards - TOP25Hotels.com - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25AWARDS.comPalma de Mallorca, Spain, February 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Hotels International has had another successful year in the Traveller Review Awards. More than 200 of the company’s hotels have been awarded this year for their exceptional performance and for having achieved a satisfaction rating above 8 in the reviews made by thousands of real customers.

The award winners include hotels from all over the world and from all of the different company brands, and the results reflect the efforts made by Meliá Hotels International to offer the best possible experience to its guests, focusing on constant improvement and the evolution of its brands and their attributes to adapt to the changing needs of modern travellers.

The Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand achieved high scores with both its city and resort hotels in Asia. In the Asia Pacific region 36 properties were awarded, with 12 achieving a rating of nine and above. These include several Melia Vinpearl properties in Vietnam: Meliá Vinpearl Hue, Meliá Vinpearl Quang Binh, Meliá Vinpearl Ha Tinh, Meliá Vinpearl Phu Ly and Meliá Vinpearl Nha Trang Empire. Also in Vietnam was The Level Villas at Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort. All of Meliá’s Thailand properties: Meliá Chiang Mai, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, and Meliá Koh Samui, achieved high marks, as did Gran Meliá Chengdu, Gran Meliá Xi’an, and INNSIDE by Meliá Zhengzhou in China.

Other hotels worldwide that have achieved outstanding scores are: INNSIDE Liverpool (UK) and INNSIDE Lima Miraflores (Peru), Paradisus Los Cabos and Paradisus Playa del Carmen (Mexico), Sol Beach House Ibiza (Spain) and Sol Oasis Marrakech (Morocco).

Among the more than 200 hotels, some of the company’s most luxurious properties achieved the highest scores, along with some of the most outstanding of the recently opened hotels: ME Barcelona, a new icon for luxury hotels in one of the most popular cities in Spain, and Villa Le Blanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel, which has revolutionised the luxury resort segment in Menorca by becoming the first carbon-neutral hotel in the destination. Other luxury hotels operated by the company performed well, including the Meliá Serengeti Lodge, Member of Meliá Collection (Tanzania), located in one of the most stunning natural environments in the world and with an approach to sustainability which has helped it earn the highest score among all the company’s hotels.

According to Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, Vice President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, “Our service vocation is at the heart of our company, which is why we do everything we can to ensure that every detail makes a big difference to the experience our hotels offer. The constant improvement of our service and facilities has always been a priority objective in more than 60 years of operating hotels, and we are very proud to have received such a positive score from our customers and to have them place their trust in us to make their trip memorable”.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Christian Zunk Appointed as Group General Manager of MUU Hotels

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Christian O. H. Zunk Appointed as Group General Manager of MUU Hotels - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comBangkok, Thailand, February 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / MUU Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce that Christian O. H. Zunk, a seasoned hospitality professional, has taken over as the Group General Manager of MUU Hotels, a hospitality company committed to providing a truly special and personalised experience for guests.

● Christian brings over 29 years of experience in the luxury hotel industry to MUU

● His career has included stints with the Four Seasons Hotel Group, Sofitel, Kempinski Hotels, Rocco Forte Hotels, Shangri-La Hotel Group, Anantara Hotels and Resorts, and Akaryn Hotel Group

● Christian is dedicated to putting the romance back into travel and creating a welcoming environment for guests at MUU

With a demonstrated history of working in the luxury hotel industry around the globe, Christian brings a wealth of experience to MUU. From a hotel family background, Christian has worked in the five-star luxury hotel industry for over 29 years across Asia, Germany and the United States, including six years with the Four Seasons Group in New York, Berlin and Hawaii, four years with Rocco Forte Hotels as part of the executive “pre-opening” teams in Frankfurt and Munich and seven years in leadership roles with Anantara Hotels and Resorts in Asia and the Middle East.

A hotel management school graduate, Christian has a unique view of the industry having grown up in hotels until he was 18 years old; his father was general manager at several legendary European and International hotels. Having seen the industry up close and personal he is passionate about it and is dedicated to putting the romance back into travel and creating a personalised and welcoming environment where guests can feel at home and be themselves.

At MUU, the team is focused on providing guests with a memorable experience by going above and beyond to accommodate their needs and preferences. Whether it’s offering all-day breakfast or accommodating the guest’s desire to dine on their private terrace, the MUU ethos is about making every stay a life-enriching and enjoyable experience. The company also places a strong emphasis on creating a happy and comfortable work environment for its team members, ensuring that they are able to bring their best selves to work every day.

Christian and the MUU team are excited to share their unique approach to hospitality with guests and look forward to welcoming them to the MUU family.

Based in Bangkok with his wife and two young children, Christian explains his take on hospitality in the Q & A below.

What inspires you?
What inspires me daily is the opportunity of being able to provide excellent services and unique experiences to our guests and trying to exceed their expectations whenever possible. At MUU, our goal is to always focus on our guests first, ensuring they have a memorable and enjoyable stay with us.

In what ways do your personal experiences assist you in your role?
My father was a general manager of a number of legendary luxury hotels and I spent most of my childhood staying in them. I have always been passionate about the hospitality industry and want to bring back the personalised, enjoyable experience for guests and associates alike. While we must keep up with technology and offer convenient options like automatic check-in, we should not lose sight of the importance of making each guest’s stay personalised, special and memorable.

How is MUU making this special experience happen?
MUU is dedicated to creating a comfortable, welcoming environment for both our guests and our team members. We encourage every team member to be themselves and to enjoy their time at the hotel. A happy and strongly motivated team is essential for providing a special, memorable experience for our guests. I am passionate about my work and strive to foster that same enthusiasm in my team. At MUU, we believe that every person is special and deserving of respect, regardless of their status as a VIP or not. Our goal is to create a comfortable space for our team so that they can share their happiness and passion with our customers.

Describe the MUU experience?
MUU is a place where everyone can feel relaxed and comfortable, whether they are guests enjoying their vacation or team members working hard to create a welcoming environment. We strive to create a home-away-from-home experience where our guests can be truly themselves with their every need taken care of.

How does MUU differentiate itself?
At MUU, we have four pillars that guide our approach to hospitality. Firstly, we strive to surprise and delight our customers by constantly renewing ourselves and offering new experiences every time they visit us. Secondly, we aim to introduce our guests to the local neighbourhood and provide truly authentic, local experiences. Our third goal is to ensure our guests are satisfied. Lastly, at MUU, we believe in a natural and organic form of luxury, with a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability.

What has been the greatest influence on you?
Growing up in the hotel industry as the son of a hotel general manager, I was always fascinated by the world of hospitality. From a young age, I had the opportunity to experience what it was like to work in a hotel, riding in housekeepers’ trolleys and dressing up to eat in fancy restaurants.

Instead of starting right away in a management position I decided to start from the ground up. I completed my apprenticeship at the renowned Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, where I worked in every department and learned what it takes to run a successful hotel. Now, as a general manager myself, I understand that the most challenging jobs in a hotel are often those held by the line staff like housekeepers and bellmen. It is because of my appreciation for these roles and the people who perform them that I am able to be an effective leader today.

How is MUU positioning Bangkok as a destination? How does MUU make the experience of Bangkok different?
Bangkok is a dynamic destination and our home district of Thong Lo is really vibrant. At MUU, we aim to position Bangkok as a welcoming and homely destination for our guests.

We want to show them our Bangkok, our Thong Lo. We strive to create a relaxed and free atmosphere, where guests can feel authentic and individual, rather than feeling like they are part of a mass experience. We believe that our personal touch and warm welcome make the experience of visiting Bangkok unique and memorable. The experiences that we create for them are unique to MUU.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

G20 Tourism Side Event Focuses on Rural Tourism with UNWTO

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G20 Tourism Side Event Focuses on Rural Tourism with UNWTO - TRAVELINDEXKhonoma Village, Nagaland, India, February 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The first meeting of the G20 Tourism Working Group to be held under the Indian Presidency placed the focus on the sector’s role in in advancing the 2030 Agenda.

UNWTO is working as the knowledge partner to the Presidency to deliver the Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the SDGs. This week’s meeting, held in the Rann of Kutch (7-9 February), featured as well a side event dedicated to rural tourism for community development and poverty alleviation. Here, UNWTO shared its recently launched Tourism for Rural Development Programme, including the Best Tourism Villages Initiative.

The side event was an opportunity to highlight opportunities for rural tourism, including new consumer behaviors and growing interest in new destinations. The meeting also explored the main challenges facing the sector, particularly with regards to digital and non-digital infrastructure, the empowerment of local communities and skills development. The findings presented were the result of an analysis of more than 200 candidacies by villages from around the world to the Best Tourism Villages Initiative as well as UNWTO Member States priorities and policies.

Representatives from Indonesia, Spain, Italy and Japan joined UNWTO, the UN Environmental Program, the International Labor Organization and the South Asia Women’s Network (SWAN) in discussing how can tourism policy can support tourism’s contribution to rural development. Participants stressed that the sustainability of tourism in rural areas is dependent on a comprehensive planning strategy is adopted and implemented based on a multi-action and multi-stakeholder participatory approach. Furthermore, it was noted that rural tourism requires the support of regional and local governments, the private sector, industry associations, civil society, communities and tourists.

In 2021, recognizing the immense potential of rural tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism of India formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Development of Rural Tourism. Reflecting this, the event included also rural tourism cases from India, including examples from Astro-tourism, homestays and women empowerment as well as the Indian village selected by UNWTO to join the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme – the Khonoma Village in Nagaland.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marco Polato is the La Scala Restaurant Manager

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Marco Polato is the La Scala Restaurant Manager - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, February 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Marco Polato as the new La Scala Restaurant Manager.

Marco, a Diploma graduate of the prestigious Giuseppe Maffioli Hospitality School in Treviso, launched his exhilarating career in his native Italy, at Club del Doge Restaurant in Venice. From there, he had the urge to work abroad, so he ventured to several exciting assignments between Italy, Japan, Australia, Vietnam and Thailand such as The Westin Sydney’s Mosaic Restaurant, The Westin Florence’s Excelsior Restaurant, the extravagant Reverie Saigon, Anantara Siam’s award-winning Biscotti Restaurant in Bangkok and the luxurious Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco in Siena, Italy.

Prior to joining us here at The Sukhothai Bangkok, Marco was the appointed Maitre D’Hotel & Sommelier at Venice’s Grand Dame of The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

With over 14 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Marco is thrilled to take on the lead of Bangkok’s most iconic Italian restaurant.

Please join us in welcoming Khun Marco to The Sukhothai Bangkok.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Yucatán Joins UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories

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Yucatán Joins UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories - MEXICOTOURISM.net - TRAVELINDEXMérida, Yucatan, Mexico, February 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has welcomed Yucatán’s Tourism Observatory into its International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

The Yucatán Tourism Observatory was established in 2018 to generate and manage information around tourism development. This work has identified key challenges and opportunities and so led to the design of relevant policies aimed at supporting the destination’s overall sustainable development, thereby increasing its competitiveness. Joining the INSTO Network will help Yucatán manage tourism development in a responsible and sustainable manner, taking a holistic view in developing adequate and innovative strategies for “rethinking” tourism.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “In this time of rethinking tourism, measurement is increasingly important as it provides a better understanding of where a destination stands and where it wants to go. The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member.”

Green and sustainable future plans for Yucatán´s tourism

The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member

Yucatán is home to the Maya, has an extensive coastline, is mostly covered by forests, jungles and has numerous cenotes, sinkholes created by collapsed limestone rocks that expose groundwater. This and other tourism resources attracted 2.1 million overnight tourists in 2019, two-thirds of them domestic tourists. Tourism GDP accounts for 11,1% of Yucatán’s overall GDP. According to the vision of the Secretariat of Tourism of the State of Yucatán (SEFOTUR) “In 2030 tourism is widely recognized as a key sector that benefits Yucatán society, and to conduct tourism development in consensus with industry actors and with a full insertion of society in the benefits of tourism”. Among the environmental priorities climate action, ecosystem restoration and conservation, water quality preservation, and sustainable energy supply are cited, as well as the need to create a culture of sustainability within Yucatán society.

Yucatan’s Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman Hirsch, noted: “We are very pleased to have been enrolled in the UNWTO’s INSTO network, as we become the second Observatory in Mexico to be part of this network, which will allow us to better evaluate the impact of tourism in Yucatan and contribute with better data to global sustainable tourism”.

Yucatán’s Tourism Observatory will monitor the 11 mandatory INSTO key areas for tourism sustainability: tourism seasonality, employment, economic benefits of the destination, energy management, water management, wastewater management, solid waste management, climate action, accessibility, local satisfaction and governance.

About INSTO

The UNWTO International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) was created in 2004 with the main objectives to support the continuous improvement of sustainability and resilience in the tourism sector through systematic, timely and regular monitoring of tourism performance and to connect dedicated destinations, helping them to exchange and improve knowledge and understanding about destination-wide resource use and the responsible management of tourism.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand Welcomes First Tour Group from China

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Thailand Welcomes First Tour Group from China - VISITTHAILAND.net - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, February 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that the first group tours from China since the pandemic arrived in Thailand, at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport. A welcoming ceremony was held and attended by high-level TAT executives, Chinese officials, and representatives of the Thai public and private sectors.

The arrival of the group tours comes as China allows the resumption of outbound group travel to 20 countries including Thailand, starting 6 February, 2023.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “Thailand is honoured to be among the 20 countries chosen to once again welcome tour groups from China. We are extremely pleased to receive these first groups today, and look forward to the many more to come. Our thanks goes to China, the Chinese tour operators and the Chinese tourists themselves for their continued confidence in Thailand as a preferred holiday destination.”

Mr. Yuthasak was among the Thai and Chinese public and private officials and figures on hand at Don Mueang International Airport to welcome Spring Airlines Flight 9C7419 from Guangzhou, with 180 passengers onboard, among them are the two group tours of 20 tourists each.

Present along with the TAT Governor and other TAT executives were H.E. Mr. Yang Xin, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand; and Ms. Chang Yumeng, Counsellor for Cultural Affairs of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, as well as other senior officials and key figures from the Thai and Chinese public and private sectors.

The group tour passengers arriving on the Spring Airlines flight from Guangzhou have a 6-day tour programme planned that will see them enjoy some of the world-famous sights and sounds of Bangkok and Pattaya. Among the attractions they will visit include Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Yaowarat (Chinatown), and Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen (known for its large seated Buddha image) in Bangkok; and Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Pattaya.

They will also visit Ko Samet, a long-popular island off the coast of Rayong known for its beautiful beaches, quaint resorts and relaxing tropical atmosphere.

The Spring Airline flight arriving in Don Mueang is among the 14 flights arriving in Thailand, carrying the first set of group tours from China to Thailand. Apart from Guangzhou, these flights operated by various airlines are scheduled to depart from several cities in China namely Xiamen, Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Nanning, landing in Bangkok and Phuket airports.

In 2022, the number of Chinese tourists that visited Thailand is recorded at 286,511. From 1 January – 2 February 2023, Thailand welcomed a total of 99,429 Chinese travellers. For 2023, it is projected to see 300,000 Chinese tourists in Thailand for the first quarter and over 5 million arrivals for the entire year.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Albricias Restaurant Launches Seasonal Menu by Chef Dessi De Vries

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Albricias Restaurant Launches Seasonal Menu by Chef Dessi De Vries - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, February 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / There’s a new chef in town, and he’s making waves. Dessi De Vries, the recently appointed executive chef at Chatrium Residence Sathon, has rolled out an imaginative new seasonal menu at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Albricias.

The menu celebrates Albricias’ culinary heritage rooted in the Mediterranean region. It highlights seasonal ingredients from Europe, Asia, and local produce from Thailand in eclectic dishes that take diners on a true journey of the senses.

Dutch native Chef Dessi is no stranger to Asia, having worked in restaurants, hotels and resorts in the Maldives, India, Thailand and Vietnam. Renowned for his impeccable technique and creative approach to cooking, his dishes present exciting flavors with a contemporary and surprising twist.

Foodies seeking bold new flavors and the familiar dishes Albricias is renowned for will discover a new level of excitement with the revamped menu featuring four new appetisers, four mains and three desserts.

The innovative starter of King Crab & Pomegranate, with its tantalizing contrast of textures, is highly recommended. Lime butter poached king crab leg and -salad is served with a light spicy guacamole espuma, pomegranate structures, Granny Smith apple and curry mayonnaise.

The luxuriant Langoustine & Risotto offers the crustacean poached and grilled, served on a bed of risotto cooked in a light spicy Mediterranean tomato-herb sauce. It is accompanied by Jerusalem artichoke structures, crunchy squid sponge and green asparagus.

For dessert, Chef Dessi drew inspiration from his childhood in Europe. During autumn, he would go with his grandmother to pick chestnuts in the forest, where the fallen leaves would blow around, and fog would rise from the ground. Fall in the Forest is a chestnut-vanilla panna cotta paired with caramelized hazelnut, tonka bean ice cream, bourbon tuille, crunchy white chocolate sponge, dark chocolate soil, and vanilla gel for a multi-textured, many-layered sweet finish to your meal.

Speaking about the new additions, Chef Dessi said, “Our aim is to evolve the menu by striking a delicate balance between continuing to serve our loyal guests and attracting new ones. We keep the food fresh and interesting, allowing diners to try something different and/or innovative, but knowing that they can still find their old favorites here.”

“The menu will change along with the seasons because we want to offer diners varying seasonal dishes throughout the year. And, of course, it is best to eat produce when it is in season,” Chef Dessi added.

For further information and reservations, please Tel +66 (0) 2672 0200

About Albricias Restaurant
An upscale, modern restaurant, Albricias brings the bright, fresh flavours of the Mediterranean region to Sathon with a unique contemporary twist. Executive Chef Dessi De Vries highlights imported and local ingredients in a creative menu that changes with the seasons. Paired with friendly and attentive service and a specially curated drink list, the exceptional journey of the senses set the tone for an unrivalled dining experience at Albricias. In 2022, the restaurant received the prestigious “Restaurantes de España Award 2022” from the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade. Albricias is located on Level Four of Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok and is open for lunch from 11.30 am to 4 pm and from 5 pm onwards for dinner.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News