Global Travel News

Amadeus and Pattern Expand Partnership

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As travel continues on its road to recovery, some uncertainly remains, and therefore it’s important travelers protect their upcoming trips against any unplanned disruptions. To provide more peace of mind to travel agents and their customers in the UK, global travel technology leader Amadeus, and global InsurTech MGA Pattern Insurance, have partnered once again to provide seamless insurance options.

This latest innovation allows travel agents to introduce insurance proposals from Pattern through the Amadeus Selling Platform. When a traveler confirms they are interested in obtaining insurance during the booking process, the agent can then trigger a process that provides relevant opt-in coverage for the trip directly to the traveler. The customer can then decide the products they wish to purchase, all on their preferred device.

The fully integrated process is intuitive, straight forward to use, and allows the travel agent to provide a seamless and enhanced level of customer service to support revenue growth.

Peter Altmann, Vice President of Mobility and Travel Protection, Hospitality, Amadeus, said, “Building on our partnership with Pattern since 2020, I am very pleased to offer this unique solution for travel agents in the UK. Putting choice in the hands of travelers to purchase the Pattern insurance services they want most is an important step in offering better end-to-end service.”

Noam Shapira, President and Co-Founder of Pattern, added, “For a long time selling insurance as a brick and mortar or a phone-based travel agency was very hard. Now, thanks to the Amadeus platform, travel agents can more easily introduce insurance to their customers. This is done in alignment with the very strong regulatory demands in the UK. The products that are provided to customers are hassle free and some of the best in the market.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

How an Island Nation is a Blueprint for Food Waste Reduction

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How an Island Nation is a Blueprint for Food Waste Reduction - TRAVELINDEXYou may know the small island of Mauritius, located off the eastern coast of Africa, for its vibrant and growing tourist destinations. What you may not know is that Mauritius is also the case study for the Fight against Food Waste in the Indian Ocean.

In 2021, through a program titled “Zero Food Waste Mauritius” engineered by the UN-awarded LightBlue Consulting, it was discovered that by combining capacity building, food waste tracking through FIT (Food Intel Tech technology), data analysis and the implementation of a certification process, a positive impact could be created on food waste, on adopters’ own financial performance, and in encouraging circular systems.

These actions led to:

  • 43% average reduction in food waste/cover
  • 62,566 Kg of food not being wasted, therefore 125,132 meals saved
  • $209,717 saved
  • 156.4 Tons of CO2 Emissions prevented

All in 9 months.

“We’re onto something,” Jeremy de Fombelle stated. As General Manager at the LUX Le Morne, he and his team oversaw 16,000 Kg of Food Saved and 40,000 Kg of CO2e reduced, which paved the path for LUX Le Morne to achieve The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste All-Star-100% certification.

De Fombelle is not alone on this crisis and the hospitality industry is seeing the winds change in the public consciousness. Krishna Sanmuthiya, Resident Manager from the Preskil Island Resort, has advocated for the holistic approach all the participating hotels have adopted. That also includes training personnel, hosting regular Food Lovers Committees, and sharing posters to make food waste awareness an important part of their kitchen day to day operations.

“We are convinced that our highlighted actions will enable us to reduce food waste at Preskil Hotel,” Mr. Sanmuthiya said, with Preskil Island Resort Mauritius saving 6,400 Kg of Food, reduce 16,000 Kg of CO2e, and thus earning The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste Certified-Silver-89%.

The Mauritius Project isn’t alone in this movement against food waste. Most recently, LightBlue undertook the Hyatt Project, involving eight different hotels under the Hyatt Hotels Corporation in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), which led to:

  • 36% average reduction in food waste/cover
  • 49,020 Kg of food not being wasted, therefore 98,041 meals saved
  • $241,170 saved
  • 122.5 Tons of CO2 Emissions prevented

This project took place within a shorter time frame of four months.

From these two ambitious projects alone, we can see that seismic impacts can be made when actionable plans, guidance, technical training, and practical tools are implemented. Whether on a small island nation, across APAC, or beyond, the mounting food waste crisis doesn’t have to be accepted as the status quo.

And it all traces back to Mauritius. Mickaël Apaya, Head of Sustainability & Inclusive Growth at the Business Mauritius held a forward-looking perspective for Mauritius and beyond. “Our goal is to become a case study for other countries and destinations to follow suit.”

In late September 2022, the BDO (Mauritius) announced a partnership with LightBlue Consulting. “We clearly see the need for a structured approach to food waste prevention that helps restaurants and hotels cut significantly on costs,” said Pamela Leste, Senior Manager- Economic, Market Analysis & Sustainability and an accredited consultant for The PLEDGETM on Food Waste, “[It’s] also a fantastic tool to recognize the personnel’s efforts and show customers that adopters really care about the future of our island.”

With such clear results and actions taken, it is undeniable that Food Waste is a Choice.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Light Up Your New Year’s Eve with the “Neon Tokyo Countdown Party”

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Light Up Your New Year’s Eve with the "Neon Tokyo Countdown Party" - TRAVELINDEX - MARRIOTT MARQUIS BANGKOKBangkok, Thailand, December 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / ABar Rooftop, the dramatic top-floor bar at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, is inviting guests to celebrate the end of 2022 in style with a sparkling alfresco New Year’s Eve party on the 38th floor, overlooking the city streets.

The “Neon Tokyo Countdown Party” will immerse guests in a bright and vibrant atmosphere that transports the senses to the streets of Japan’s captivating capital city. Starting at 21.00 hrs. Revelers will be invited to gather at our stylish rooftop bar and enjoy amazing entertainment, and premium beverages pass around throughout the event.

Get funky with a live “DJ Mizuyo”, a Japanese DJ from Yokohama City who will spin upbeat tunes as guests dance the night away, celebrate the end of 2022, and ring in the New Year, full of promise and possibilities.

The “Neon Tokyo Countdown Party” will be hosted on 31st December 2022, starting from 21.00 – 01.00 hrs. The entrance fee is starting from THB 5,000 net per person, including free-flow soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits.

  • THB 5,000 net per person (standing)
  • THB 14,000 net per table (up to 2 people, standing), including 1 bottle of sparkling wine
  • THB 16,000 net per table (up to 2 people, seated), including 1 bottle of Champagne
  • THB 30,000 net per table (up to 4 people, seated), including 2 bottles of Champagne
  • THB 60,000 net per VIP sofa table (up to 6 people, seated), including 4 bottles of Champagne
  • THB 80,000 net per VVIP sofa table (up to 10 people, seated – front section), including 1 Jeroboam (3-liter bottle) of Champagne

Early bird tickets will be available from 15th November 2022 onwards via the Megatix: Megatix – Neon Tokyo Countdown Party at ABar Rooftop

For more information about our New Year’s Eve countdown party and to book your enchanting evening at ABar Rooftop, please call +66 (0) 2 059 5999

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Meliá Chiang Mai Appoints Pornphan Chumjai as Spa Manager

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Chiang Mai, Thailand, December 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A professional with almost 15 years of hospitality wellness experience and a passion for leading teams of spa therapists has been named Meliá Chiang Mai’s spa manager.

Thai national Pornphan Chumjai joins the urban hotel that opened in April this year on Charoen Prathet Road in the heart of Chiang Mai, after working at Cross Chiang Mai Riverside where she was the spa manager for two years and established the hotel’s spa.

She launched her career as a spa receptionist at Anantara Chiang Mai and steadily rose through the ranks to become a spa supervisor and then the spa manager during her nine years at the resort.

She was also the spa manager at Centara Duangtawan Chiang Mai and Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa for one year and two years respectively.

In addition to developing an extensive spa menu featuring massages, scrubs, wraps, facials and hydrotherapy based on organic Thai wellness brand HARNN’s products, she oversees the daily operations of Meliá Chiang Mai’s YHI Spa.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s YHI Spa features seven private treatment rooms, designed in an underwater theme, as well as a Thai herbal steam and sauna and a separate room for pedicures.

To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, call +66 52 090 699

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited is a holding company under TCC Group operating leading integrated lifestyle property development in Thailand. The company has two main businesses consisting of the Hospitality business managed by top hotel executives of world-renowned hotel brands such as Marriott, The Luxury Collection, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, and Sheraton and Retail, Wholesale and Commercial properties whose projects include 1) Retail and Wholesale including lifestyle travel destinations, community shopping malls, community markets, and wholesale business real estate. Popular real estate projects consist of ASIATIQUE the Riverfront Destination, Gateway at Bangsue, AEC Trade Center – Pantip Wholesale Destination, and Tawanna Bangkapi and 2) Commercial buildings including the famous Empire Tower and Athenee Tower located in Bangkok’s central business district.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aloft Bangkok Unveils White Christmas and The Great Gatsby

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Aloft Bangkok Unveils White Christmas and The Great Gatsby - TRAVELINDEXAloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11, Marriott Bonvoy’s bright and bold hotel in the beating heart of Bangkok, is announcing its 2022 festive offers allowing guests to celebrate in style while staying in one of Bangkok’s most happening district, Sukhumvit area.

White Christmas | Christmas Eve buffet dinner | 24 December 2022

Celebrate Christmas in a White Sensation theme at Crave restaurant’s Christmas Eve dinner buffet on December 24, 2022. Guests will enjoy an unlimited seafood buffet dinner featuring Christmas ham and lamb for THB 1,590 net with a glass of sparkling wine per guest. Book by December 15, 2022 and receive a 20% early bird discount.

The Great Gatsby | New Year’s Eve buffet dinner | 31 December 2022

Crave restaurant will host a New Year’s Eve dinner buffet in the style of the Great Gatsby on December 31, 2022. THB 2,023 net per person, including a glass of sparkling wine. Guests will enjoy all-you-can-eat seafood buffet dinner with a special lobster dish and lamb with entertainment and more. Book by December 22, 2022 and receive a 20% early bird discount.

Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11 is a distinctive select, modern, fresh and fun hotel. With savvy design and free-flowing energy, guests can celebrate in style in the unique openness of a no-walls, no-limits space. Experience a whole new vibe with loft-inspired design, totally tech-savvy rooms with free Wi-Fi and a great social scene. An easy breezy adventure awaits all guests in Thailand’s hippest hotspot, Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11 is just steps from the best shopping, nightlife, and dining destinations, and a quick 5-minute stroll to Nana BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway stations for easy access to Bangkok’s biggest attractions.

To book, please visit call 02 207 7080

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN NYC

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New York comes alive during the holiday season and this year the city expects to welcome 6.5 million visitors by the time the iconic New Year’s ball at Times Square drops. And to entertain such a volume of visitors, as well as locals, the city has host to festive experiences and events and events across dining, shopping, culture and entertainment throughout all five boroughs.

The fourth quarter is historically the strongest of the year, accounting for approximately 30% of visitation to the city. A total 56.7 million people are forecasted to visit NYC before the end of 2022 – roughly 85% record 2019 tourism levels.

“A trip to New York City during the holiday season is magical whether it’s your first visit or an annual tradition,” says NYC & Company President and CEO, Fred Dixon. “The five boroughs witness a transformation that includes iconic experiences along Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center as well as new holiday markets, pop-events and performances that create memories of a lifetime.”

Following are festive events, performances, and activities across the five boroughs to celebrate the holiday season in New York City:

ANNUAL EVENTS

• Lighting of the Largest Menorah in Brooklyn (Dec. 18-25, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn): Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza will light the largest menorah on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, with live music, hot latkes, and gifts for children.

• New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop (Dec. 31, Times Square, Manhattan): The Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball will sparkle in Times Square all season, but watching its descent in person on New Year’s Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year. Millions view the broadcast event in NYC and around the globe along with spectators in Times Square on Dec. 31.

PERFOMANCES

• Big Apple Circus (through Jan. 1, Lincoln Centre): The Big Apple Circus is back for its 45th anniversary season and invites visitors to experience the excitement of its dazzling newest extravaganza: DREAM BIG! For eight weeks only, Big Top at Lincoln Center will be home to astonishing wonders and daring acrobatics, setting imaginations soaring to the most astounding, awe-inspiring heights.

• Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes (through Jan. 2): The beloved holiday tradition once again returns to Radio City Music Hall for its annual musical stage show, which has dazzled audiences of all ages for nearly a century. With incredible costumes, festive songs, synchronized high kicks, new acts and several shows daily, now is the time to return and enjoy this festive custom.

• A Christmas Carol (through Jan. 1): In this astonishing Broadway adaptation, Tony Award–winning actor Jefferson Mays tackles more than 50 roles in this season’s limited run of ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the Nederlander Theatre.

• George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker Presented by New York City Ballet (through Dec. 31): George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center returns for its annual performance featuring exquisite costumes, magnificent sets and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score that transports audiences to a land of twirling snowflakes, leaping candy canes, waltzing flowers and more.

• The Magic Flute Holiday Presentation at The Met Opera (Dec. 16-Jan. 6): The Met Opera’s abridged, English-language version of Mozart’s magical fairy tale is a classic holiday treat for audiences of all ages, bringing the charming story and enchanting music to life.

• The New York String Orchestra at Carnegie Hall (Dec. 24): A favourite of Carnegie Hall audiences for more than 50 years, the New York String Orchestra returns for its annual Christmas Eve concert conducted by Jaime Laredo and will feature some of the nation’s most celebrated young musicians performing alongside guest artists, including Venezuelan violinist Rubén Rengel, who joins the orchestra for J. S. Bach’s virtuosic Concerto in A Minor.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

• The Rink at Rockefeller Center: Skating under the iconic Christmas tree at the renowned skating rink is quintessential NYC experience. In collaboration with Coach, Rockefeller Center will unveil this year’s activations, including a bespoke holiday gift shop, and visits from Santa on the ice in December.

• The Rink at Bryant Park: NYC’s free outdoor ice-skating rink at Bryant Park’s Winter Village also features holiday shops, free shows, events, activities, and eats and drinks at The Lodge.

• Wollman Rink in Central Park: Skate in Central Park with the picturesque Manhattan skyline in the background.

• Classic Harbor Line: Enjoy four-course holiday brunch cruises, a ‘Cocoa and Carols’ cruise and more holiday themes, while sailing across the East and Hudson Rivers with views of the NYC skyline and Lady Liberty.

• City Cruises Holiday: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or New Year’s dining cruise, among others, feature festive decor, meals and stunning views of the City while sailing across the East and Hudson Rivers from the glass-enclosed deck.

• NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park (Dec. 31): Visitors are invited to start the new year off on the right – and left – foot at the NYRR Midnight Run. The countdown to 2023 begins at 11:59 p.m., and at the stroke of midnight, a fireworks display will light up the night sky and kick off the start of the 8-km. race.

• Coney Island Polar Plunge (Jan. 1, Coney Island): Each year on Jan. 1, members of the Polar Bear Club and anyone else brave enough to participate venture into the frigid waters at Coney Island. Watch hundreds of daring souls plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, where the temperature of the water hovers right above 40 degrees F. and the air temperature can be well below freezing. The event is free.

WINTER EXHIBITIONS AND CULTURAL EVENTS

• The Seaport’s NYC Celebrations: The historic cobblestone streets of The Seaport and Pier 17 turn into the ultimate destination for holiday celebrations. Festivities include the Hanukkah Menorah Lighting on Dec. 18 and decorations throughout the streets.

• Spectacular Factory: The Holiday Multiverse at ARTECHOUSE (through Jan. 8, Chelsea): ARTECHOUSE, a pioneer in innovation digital and experiential art, is hosting an immersive and family-friendly holiday art experience, perfect for the whole family that enables guests to immerse themselves into a multiverse of holiday villages. Visitors will float among giant swinging jingle bells, crash the party of a thousand nutcrackers, join a thrilling train ride through wreaths, take a spin in the candy cane carousel and more.

• Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden (through Jan. 16, The Bronx): This favourite holiday tradition has been around for over 30 years. Visitors will see model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 190 replicas of New York City landmarks, each re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, lotus pods and cinnamon sticks.

• Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche at The Met Fifth Avenue (through Jan. 8): A NYC tradition, The Met’s Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche exhibition – an adorned tree with a nativity scene around its base – comes from a collection of 18th-century Neapolitan figures donated by American artist and collector Loretta Hines Howard in 1964.

• Fifth Avenue Presents: The Fifth Season and Brand-New Open Streets (Dec. 4, through holidays): The Fifth Avenue Association welcomes guests from around the world to enjoy the iconic holiday windows and decorations. New for this season, Fifth Avenue will launch Open Streets, a new program that will not only close Fifth Avenue to all vehicular traffic, but also open the sidewalks to a variety of food vendors and musical performers from local choirs and instrumental ensembles.

• Apollo Winter Wonderland (Dec. 10, Harlem): The Apollo Theater invites audiences to bring the family for holiday-themed activities including picture taking with Santa Claus and amazing performances.

• The Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History: The 13-foot Origami Holiday Tree, celebrates its 50th anniversary, with a Gems of the Museum theme, featuring 50 specially created gold-coloured models for the golden anniversary.

LIGHTINGS

• Shine Bright Only at Hudson Yards: Featuring over 2 million twinkling lights, Shine Bright Only at Hudson Yards, sees the neighbourhood adorned with 240 km. of string lights, 725 evergreen trees dressed, and 5-m. tall illuminated set pieces in the shape of hot air balloons arranged through the Public Square and Gardens with a 10 m. hot air balloon centrepiece suspended in The Great Room of The Shops and Restaurants.

• NYC Winter Lantern Festival: Journey to the East (through Jan. 8, St. George, Staten Island): The NYC Winter Lantern Festival is back for its fourth year to transform a new venue, SIUH Community Park in Staten Island, into an immersive world of light. Visitors will enjoy over 3.3 hectares of luminescence in addition to a live DJ, projection mapping, food vendors and more.

• Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (through Jan. 8, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn): Explore the garden after dark at the illuminated Lightscape, which will celebrate the beauty of nature with a one-mile trail through BBG’s 21 hectares landscape. Sold out in its first season, this year’s after-dark, illuminated spectacular features new works of art alongside returning favourites.

• Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights (through Jan. 8, Bronx Park, The Bronx): With more than 360 lanterns representing nearly 90 animal and plant species, Bronx Zoo’s family-centric holiday lights festival will connect visitors with real wildlife and wild places. During the evenings, the park comes to life with holiday cheer as immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns (with some life-size, some larger-than-life-size) and animated light shows sparkle across the zoo. The celebration is complete with seasonal treats, classic holiday music and other festive entertainment.

• NYBG GLOW (through Jan. 14, Bedford Park, The Bronx): NYBG GLOW illuminates the garden’s landmark landscape and historic buildings after dark with a newly expanded 2.4 km colourful experience. Building upon sold-out evenings the past two years, the event will expand across even more of the garden’s magnificent collections.

• Amaze Light Festival at Citi Field (Select dates through Jan. 8, Flushing, Queens): Amaze Light Festival welcomes visitors of every age to feel the spirit of the holidays in a universe of sparkle, music, food, dance, celebration and wonder. Guests will be greeted by the lovable characters Zing and Sparky from the Amaze storybook, who bring the stage dancers, singers and light show to life with their magic powers.

FESTIVE HOTEL OFFERINGS

• Loews Regency New York (through Dec. 30): The hotel invites all guests to get in the holiday spirit with a special themed welcome amenity, two drinks at The Regency Bar & Grill while taking in the festive décor by Patrick J. Clayton Productions, in addition to other unique and memorable programming.

• The Plaza (through Jan. 1): Enjoy afternoon tea at The Palm Court at The Plaza, an iconic destination for holiday festivities, as well as Santa Claus visits, the “Home Alone 2” experience, and one-of-a-kind gifts at the Eloise Pop-Up.

• Lotte New York Palace (through Dec. 23): The hotel will hold its annual Letters to Santa program, where customized postcards are provided to all guests upon check-in, allowing visitors to write their very own letter to Santa and “mail” them in the property’s Santa mailbox. Each evening, a North Pole Postman will pick up the cards, which are read by the hotel’s “Guest Experience Elves” and Santa Claus himself. Each guest will find a personalized response from the desk of Santa Claus, placed in their room.

• The Knickerbocker (Dec. 31): The Knickerbocker Hotel continues with tradition, ringing in 2023 with its annual New Year’s Eve party. The one-of-a-kind celebration will host guests with a night of surprise and excitement just 150 feet below the Times Square Ball—the closest live view of the event in the world.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

• Union Square Holiday Market (through Dec. 24, Manhattan): Urbanspace’s longest running holiday market will return this year with over 160 vendors featuring unique gifts created by local craftsmen, artists, and entrepreneurs.

• Grand Central Terminal (through Dec. 24): Grand Central Terminal welcomes back its famous indoor Holiday Fair to the splendor of Vanderbilt Hall after a two-year hiatus. This year’s event will feature 36 vendors, including Ekologic, Garden of Silver and Rebel Designs.

• Grand Holiday Bazaar (Sundays through Dec. 18, Upper West Side, Manhattan): Find one-of-a-kind handmade holiday decoration and giftable items: candles, skincare, fashion, handbags, vintage accessories and collectibles, handmade jewellery and furniture, rare antique silver and glassware, and artisanal treats and foods.

For additional holiday celebrations and itineraries, visit nycgo.com/holidays

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: No mystery about Sarah McLachlan

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There’s no mystery about it, Sarah McLachlan is a national treasure and there’s little need to recount her history here. Just the music – and what music it is: the classic “Building a Mystery,” rendered at the magnificent Red Rocks amphitheatre near Denver, and with the Colorado Symphony backing to boot.

McLachlan reveals in the clip that it is her first orchestral performance, and the results are spine tingling.

‘Mystery,’ from the Halifax-native’s fourth album Surfacing, was released in 1997 and was the top song in Canada that year. It also earned her a Grammy the following year for best female pop vocal performance.

This performance took place in 2011, and they don’t come any better.

Lyrics

You come out at night
That’s when the energy comes
And the dark side’s light
And the vampires roam
You strut your Rasta wear
And your suicide poem
And a cross from a faith
That died before Jesus came
You’re building a mystery

You live in a church
Where you sleep with voodoo dolls
And you won’t give up the search
For the ghosts in the halls
You wear sandals in the snow
And a smile that won’t wash away
Can you look out the window
Without your shadow getting in the way?
Oh you’re so beautiful
With an edge and a charm
But so careful
When I’m in your arms

‘Cause you’re working
Building a mystery
Holding on and holding it in
Yeah you’re working
Building a mystery
And choosing so carefully

You woke up screaming aloud
A prayer from your secret god
You feed off our fears
And hold back your tears
Oh, give us a tantrum
And a know it all grin
Just when we need one
When the evening’s thin

You’re so beautiful
A beautiful fucked up man
You’re setting up your
Razor-wire shrine

‘Cause you’re working
Building a mystery
Holding on and holding it in
Yeah you’re working
Building a mystery
And choosing so carefully
Ooh, you’re working
Building a mystery
Holding on and holding it in
Yeah you’re working
Building a mystery
And choosing so carefully

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlán Beach Resort Debuts as the First Courtyard Resort in Mexico

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Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlan Beach Resort
Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlan Beach Resort

Courtyard by Marriott, the brand with the largest global footprint in Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 brands, announced today the opening of the new Courtyard By Marriott Mazatlan Beach Resort, making it the first Courtyard resort to open its doors in Mexico. The hotel is located in one of the most visited coasts in the north of the country, renowned for its gastronomy, beaches, and cultural heritage.

“We are thrilled to have the first Courtyard resort in Mexico and what better location for it than Mazatlán, one of the most fascinating and fastest-growing destinations in Mexico,” said Brian King, President of Marriott International for the Caribbean and Latin America. “The Courtyard brand was born with the purpose of offering our guests everything they need while traveling for business or leisure. Our resorts seek to offer services that exceed our guests’ expectations, from design-driven social spaces and pools with a view, to a variety of delicious cuisines and special programs for families with children. Our offering ensures a dream vacation and the ultimate experience for all guests,” he said.

The new resort has a privileged location in the Golden Zone, one of Mazatlán’s prime areas, where travelers can find the best beaches, nightlife, gastronomy, a golf course, the city’s tourist attractions, and only 16.5 miles away from the airport. It also has 195 guestrooms divided into luxury suites and rooms with balconies and terraces – all with ocean views, giving travelers a well-deserved respite with an unparalleled view.

“We are proud to welcome national and international travelers to our new resort, with an enriching experience inspired by the exhilarating city of Mazatlán,” said Juan Pablo Colmenero, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlán Beach Resort. “The comfort and satisfaction of our guests is wrapped in Mazatlán’s beautiful culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. We offer a prime location for business or leisure travel or a blend of both, and we look forward to providing excellence at all times with services and amenities that exceed travelers’ expectations.”

Guests will be able to enjoy the region’s unparalleled culinary specialties, thanks to the property’s variety of restaurants and bars, including Don Joaquin Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlan Beach Resort Spa
Spa

After a day full of activities, guests can relax at the spa with expert therapists, who offer a variety of facial and body treatments to enjoy a quiet space, while the refreshing outdoor pool is ideal for sipping a cocktail from a cabana and taking in the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. In addition, the hotel has a 24/7 fitness center, to ensure guests’ exercise routines go uninterrupted.

The hotel is the perfect combination of comfort, fun, and business, as it has event spaces ideal for social gatherings, business meetings, conventions, and weddings for up to 300 people, all with a beautiful ocean view.

Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlan Beach Resort kids club
Kids Club

Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlán Beach Resort has thought of everything for its guests to enjoy their vacation without interruptions; while the adults enjoy exclusive cocktails and delicious snacks at the Lobby Bar, the little ones can have fun at Courtyard Kids Club with multiple daily games and activities, under supervision, for parents’ peace of mind.

Near the resort, guests can enjoy several tourist attractions like the historic center of Mazatlán with its colonial architecture, the lighthouse, a tour to the islands, the observatory, enjoy a walk along the beautiful boardwalk, surfing, or fishing, among other attractions.

Courtyard by Marriott Mazatlán Beach Resort’s modern facilities and exceptional service will make it a favorite place for visitors to the country’s northern coast. For more information or to make reservations, please visit the hotel website.

About Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott® is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With more than 1,265 locations in 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travelers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests can work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit www.Courtyard.Marriott.com, become a fan on Facebook or follow @CourtyardHotels on Twitter.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s® extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com.

Media Contact
Claudia Sánchez Cornish
Public Relations Area Director Mexico
Marriott International
Claudia.Sanchez4@Marriott.com

Jorge Páez
Public Relations Manager
Marriott International
Jorge.Paez@Marriott.com

JeffreyGroup
Paulina Sierra
PSierra@JeffreyGroup.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

It’s Playtime for Everyone

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In Greater Fort Lauderdale, kilometers of golden beaches and scenic waterways are just the beginning. Here are some ways to play for everyone under the sun.

Roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) spreading wings

Nature Lovers

From airboat rides in the world-famous Everglades to exploring Flamingo Gardens and Butterfly World, breathtaking nature encounters await in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Pristine beaches and dozens of parks and preserves provide stunning natural settings perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, biking, kayaking and more.
Find something fabulous at Sawgrass Mills, the nation’s largest luxury outlet mall, or one of the many other exceptional shopping centers with dining and nightlife offerings. From the excitement of Las Olas Boulevard and Gulfstream Park to the impressive retailers at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale and Dania Pointe, Greater Fort Lauderdale is a shopper’s paradise. And you can shop ‘till you drop – onto a relaxing beach.

 

Captains and First Mates

With the shimmering Atlantic coastline and 480 kilometers of scenic waterways, it’s no wonder Greater Fort Lauderdale is recognized as the world’s yachting capital. Whether you charter a boat or embark on one of the area’s many boat tours, there’s no better place to enjoy boating. You can reel in the big fish, dock and dine at numerous waterside eateries and bars, or hop aboard the ever-popular Water Taxi to see the sights and enjoy the sunshine.

Culture Connoisseurs

Greater Fort Lauderdale’s diverse arts and culture scene is ready to inspire you with fascinating museums, world-class performing arts, and charming attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project. Further inspiration awaits in family-friendly festivals and other special events.

Thrill-Seekers

Ready for a night out on the town? In Greater Fort Lauderdale, you’ll discover a cosmopolitan nightlife scene, from the strip of popular bars in Wilton Manors such as Hunters Nightclub and  DrYnk Bar & Lounge to rooftop bars at @1WLO, Sparrow and The Easton. Reserve your private party at the 901 Speakeasy (it only seats six guests at a time), featuring pop-up bartenders and themes, complete with a secret entrance. Experience the thrill of top tournament play at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. Enjoy rock star seating for a world-class concert or Florida Panthers game at FLA Live Arena. There’s plenty of excitement before the sun goes down, too, from scuba diving into a fascinating underwater world to mastering the exhilarating art of flyboarding with Aqua Flight.

Chill Seekers

There’s nothing quite as revitalizing as a beautiful stretch of beach and Greater Fort Lauderdale has 38 kilometers of sparkling water and golden sand in eight different beach communities. Revel in the warm sun and fresh sea breeze or enjoy swimming, snorkeling and water sports. The area also offers many world-class spas so you can treat yourself with some much-deserved pampering.

Plan Your Visit Now and Save with LauderDeals

From amazing spa and dining deals in August and September to hotel and attraction deals all year long, you can enjoy the good life for less with LauderDeals. Check out all of the wonderful ways you can save here!

 

 

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

An Epicurean’s Long Weekend In Greater Fort Lauderdale

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Discerning diners know that Florida’s best-kept culinary secret is Greater Fort Lauderdale. From Caribbean cooking to succulent seafood and dockside dining, here’s where to feast, nibble and imbibe in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

DAY 1: Arrive in Fort Lauderdale and enjoy oceanfront dining

After a day of travel, it’s time to relax on the beach and enjoy oceanfront dining at a luxury hotel. Check into Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach  and sample Japanese and Korean sharable small plates and sushi at Takato,   paired with colorful tropical cocktails and sake. W Fort Lauderdale has a couple of great outdoor dining options right on the beach, too. El Vez offers Baja-style Mexican cuisine on a spacious patio, and if you’re more in the mood for steak, Steak954 serves world-class American, Australian and Japanese wagyu steaks alongside fresh-caught seafood for a mix-and-match, surf-and-turf feast.

For an even more intimate and personalized outdoor dining experience, you can charter a catamaran for a champagne sunset cruise or book a Little Gatherings pop-up picnic at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park.

DAY 2: Explore downtown Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene

Today it’s time to discover the various culinary delights in downtown Fort Lauderdale. You’ll get your 10,000 steps in on a walking tour with Craft Food Tours, meeting chefs and small business owners along the way. Take a short break from eating to explore the Shops of Las Olas for distinctive finds, from surf gear at Quiet Storm Surf Shop and premium cigars at Havana Republic Cigar Depot to floral bouquets and gifts at Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar.

When it’s time for another meal, choose between Louie Bossi’s Italian Ristorante or a seat on the Riverwalk at Rivertail by James Beard Award-nominated chef Jose Mendin. The yellowtail ceviche taquitos and crab donuts here are great for sharing—although you may find yourself negotiating with dining companions for the last piece.

DAY 3: Discover Greater Fort Lauderdale’s markets, craft beer and specialty shops

Now that you have a general taste for the restaurants along Fort Lauderdale beach and downtown, it’s time to venture a little farther. Start your day browsing artisan food and crafts at Yellow Green Farmer’s Market in Hollywood, the most vibrant farmers market in Greater Fort Lauderdale, before hitting the Fort Lauderdale Ale Trail for a tour of the region’s best craft beer. Caviar connoisseurs should seek out rare pure beluga caviar at Marky’s Caviar Lounge at The Shoppes at the Guitar Hotel and if you’re craving a taste of the Caribbean, head to Aruba Beach Café at Lauderdale-By-The-Sea for jerk wings and Bimini bread.

Hardcore shoppers can sip a smoothie from family-owned MiaFruta while browsing swimwear at aguabendita and Alma by Angel de la Guarda at Sawgrass Mills. After working up an appetite, savor a leisurely final night on the water with Riverfront Gondola Tours. There’s a dinner cruise option with a pan-Asian Latin fusion menu by Casa Sensei.

Plan Your Visit Now and Save with LauderDeals

From amazing spa and dining deals in August and September to hotel and attraction deals all year long, you can enjoy the good life for less with LauderDeals. Check out all of the wonderful ways you can save here!

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News