Global Travel News

UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Forum in Japan to Focus People and Planet

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UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Forum in Japan to Focus People and Planet - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXNara, Japan, November 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The growing importance of gastronomy tourism as a driver of inclusive development will be celebrated in the Japanese city of Nara next month.

Held under the theme ‘Gastronomy Tourism for People and Planet: Innovate, Empower and Preserve’, the 7th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will take place on 12-15 December. Organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Basque Culinary Center (BCC) and hosted by the Nara Prefecture Government, with the support of the Japan Tourism Agency, the event will put the spotlight on the role of gastronomy tourism as a platform for development, women’s and youth empowerment and innovative ways on how to attract and retain talent.

• Discover the World’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants and Ultimate Gastronomy Destinations at Top25Restaurants.com

It will also see the launch of UNWTO’s Global Roadmap on Food Waste Reduction in Tourism. The Roadmap provides a consistent framework for tourism stakeholders to embrace the sustainable management of food so that it never becomes waste.

Innovation and social inclusion

Forum represents a unique opportunity for experts to share their best practices and enhance the role of Gastronomy Tourism in sustainability, innovation, and social inclusion, and highlight its importance for regional and rural development

UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili says: “This year’s edition of the Forum represents a unique opportunity for experts to share their best practices and enhance the role of Gastronomy Tourism in sustainability, innovation, and social inclusion, and highlight its importance for regional and rural development.”

Joxe Mari Aizega, Director of the Basque Culinary Center, added: “The gastronomy sector has a meaningful influence on a region’s image and international projection. And for that, forums like this one are needed to nurture and boost young talents, create value, and, most important, address the challenges that the gastronomy tourism sector is facing.”

The Governor of Nara Mr. Shogo Arai said: “Gastronomy tourism has been at the heart of Nara’s initiatives to promote the linkages between food and tourism. Such linkages not only contribute to the promotion of traditional culture and diversity, but also to the development of cultural communication, the regional economy, sustainable tourism, and gastronomic exchanges.”

Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency, Mr. Koichi Wada, added: “In this country of great tradition and culture, where tourism and food and beverage professionals are engaged in friendly competition, there are many new initiatives in gastronomy tourism. We look forward to welcoming you back to Japan.”

• Discover the World’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants and Ultimate Gastronomy Destinations at Top25Restaurants.com

Global gastronomy leaders

The Forum will once again welcome many of the leading figures of global gastronomy and tourism. Among those set to take part in Nara are UNWTO Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism and Asia’s Best Female Chef of 2016, Maria Margarita A. Fores of the Philippines, Chef Catia Uliassi, ranked number 12 in the ‘50 Best’ from Italy, and  Masayuki Miura, owner of Kiyosuminosato AWA Michelin Guide Nara 2022, Green-Star Restaurant (Japan). The full line-up is available on the Forum Programme.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JW Marriott Khao Lak Unveils New Grand Ballroom Creating New Mice Destination

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JW Marriott Khao Lak Unveils New Grand Ballroom Creating New Mice Destination - TRAVELINDEX - MICEdirectory.comKhao Lak, Thailand, November 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, the pioneering retreat on Thailand’s stunning sunset coast, has unveiled its new world-class event space, The JW Grand Ballroom, as the hotel opens up another exciting new frontier in Thailand’s meeting and conference sector. The launch of this 810-guest, 758-square meter event space, which marks the culmination of the resort’s 18-month transformation, sets the stage for gala dinners, major conferences, destination weddings and more. The new JW Grand Ballroom is bright, stylish and naturally-lit, with 758 square meters of floorspace.

The brand-new ballroom was officially launched in October 2022 as part of a major expansion and complete renovation of this five-star beachfront resort. Chic, stylish and naturally-lit, this 758-square meter venue can host up to 810 attendees for life’s most meaningful and memorable moments, such as gala dinners, award ceremonies, corporate conventions, one-of-a-kind weddings and more. It is fully equipped with the latest audio-visual technology, can be flexibly divided into three separate spaces for more intimate events, and the inviting pre-function area can also host exhibitions.

With one of the largest luxury MICE venues in southern Thailand, creative catering services and unique guest experiences, from nourishing culinary workshops and tasting sessions in the JW Garden to coffee breaks themed like a Thai floating market, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa is helping to reposition Khao Lak – and the entire Andaman coast – as a dynamic new MICE destination.

“We are delighted to unveil the new JW Grand Ballroom. With its long, palm-fringed sandy beaches and crystal-clear seas, Khao Lak has established a strong reputation as a destination for leisure vacations and beachfront weddings. Now, with the opening of this exceptional new event space, we will be able to offer fresh and innovative experiences for large-scale corporate groups, opening up a new frontier for Thailand’s thriving MICE sector,” said Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa.

“Following the successful conclusion of our 18-month renovation, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa now offers an expanded inventory of 420 rooms, suites and villas, 11 restaurants and bars, world-class leisure facilities including Southeast Asia’s longest swimming pool, signature experiences and world-class meeting venues, all set along the golden shores of the Andaman Sea. This makes it a compelling option for every type of escape, from families’ and couples’ vacations to destination weddings, business incentives, team-building escapes, corporate conferences and more,” he added.

In total, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa now features over 9,300 square meters of indoor and outdoor event meeting space, including seven function rooms, ranging from the compact 12-guest Griffin Boardroom to the expansive 810-delegate JW Grand Ballroom. These indoor venues are only the start, however; creative set-ups and personalised activities can also be arranged in the resort’s elegant outdoor spaces, including the lush Infinity Lawn and the soft, sandy beach. As the sun sets over the Andaman Sea, these natural amphitheaters create idyllic options for outdoor events, from cocktail receptions to beachfront dinners, while also providing a beautiful backdrop for filming and photo shoots.

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa is located one hour’s drive north of Phuket International Airport, an emerging aviation hub in the region with direct flights from business centres such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, the Middle East and Australia.

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every momfunent to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott 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.

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. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. 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.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

At G20 UNWTO Advances Role of People and MSMES

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At G20 UNWTO Advances Role of People and MSMES - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, November 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Small enterprises and local communities must be given the support they need to become true ‘agents of change’. As leaders of the G20 economies meet in Bali this week, UNWTO has stressed the importance of empowering grassroots actors as well as MSMES in order to drive sustainable and inclusive transformation and build greater resilience.

As the global community faces up to a range of challenges, including geopolitical tensions, rising energy prices and a climate emergency, UNWTO has placed tourism firmly on the G20 agenda. Under the Indonesian Presidency of the G20, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili urged leaders to seize the opportunity to rethink and transform tourism in order to deliver on its massive potential for sustainability and opportunity.

Speed up and scale up transformation

We are behind in progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In fact, progress has actually been reversed in areas like gender equality

Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “We are behind in progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In fact, progress has actually been reversed in areas like gender equality. Tourism can help us get back on track. But we need to speed up. And we need to scale up. There is no time to lose.”

Over the course of 2022, UNWTO has worked with the G20 Tourism Working Group under the leadership of the Indonesian Presidency and the Minister of Tourism and Creative Industries, Sandiaga Uno, on Guidelines to make MSMEs and Communities agents of transformation. Released in September, on the occasion of the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, the Guidelines are built on five pillars,: 1. Human Capital; 2. Innovation, digitalization and the creative economy; 3. Women and youth empowerment; 4. Climate action, biodiversity conservation, and circularity; and 5. Policy, governance and investment.

Together, the Guidelines put people at the centre of tourism’s recovery and future development. According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourist numbers worldwide are on track to reach around 70% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year. UNWTO recognizes the sector’s responsibility to make sure this recovery is translated into more decent jobs, increased investment in infrastructure, skills and talent for the digital and green transformations and women empowerment.

In a post-pandemic world, renewed governance, multilateralism and international cooperation are the only path to address a world in a poly interconnected crisis stressed the UNWTO Secretary-General. Since the G20 economies represent 80% of global GDP, 60% of the world population and 76% of the tourism GDP worldwide, they are in a position to lead by example, he added.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ARCH NEMESIS: Storm Nicole topples another PEI landmark

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A storm has toppled a sandstone arch in Prince Edward Island that had been weakened during Fiona, the second celebrated landmark lost in the province in the last two months. The often-photographed arch at MacKenzies Brook in the PEI National Park near Cavendish fell as the island dealt with rain and wind from the remnants of hurricane Nicole.

Michelle Boyce, the captain of Atlantic Sailing PEI in North Rustico, has been taking people by boat to see the coastal arch up close for more than a decade. She said she was devastated to learn it had collapsed.

“We keep telling people the arch won’t be there forever due to erosion,” Boyce said, but she never thought its demise would come so soon.

Parks Canada warned people in early November to stay clear of the arch because it was at risk of collapsing due to damage from post-tropical storm Fiona, which hit the Island on Sept. 24.

Parks Canada said in a statement that “as the climate changes, we can expect the frequency and severity of extreme storms to intensify” and that increased coastal erosion is likely.

A Parks Canada official said in an email that the park “will continue to monitor increasing rates of erosion over time.”

While the arch caved in, one sandstone stack remains in the water that Boyce hopes will be a new landmark for people to enjoy. She said perhaps it will become the MacKenzies Brook teacup, a reference to another lost landmark about 30 kilometres to the west.

Teacup Rock. Then and Now.

When Fiona hit, surging seas toppled a sea-stack rock formation known as the Teacup Rock at PEI’s Thunder Cove Beach. The storm also took out sand dunes and washed out some roads within PEI National Park.

“The harbour as a whole has dramatically changed,” Boyce said. “Docks are in the water, buildings are gone and damaged. It’s been a really rough spell.”

Islanders mourning the loss of the arch took to social media, sharing photos of the arch still intact and sharing memories of visits to see it.

Boyce said the coastal damage and lost landmarks highlight the impact of erosion, which is sped up by climate change, something she discusses on her sailing tours.

“Educating people about the damage climate change is causing is a huge part of what we do,” she said.

As the coastline erodes, the harbour where Boyce sails is becoming shallower, which affects both sea life and boats. “We run a sailboat, so we need deeper water, and we’re now touching bottom all the time,” Boyce said.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: Someone call The Police

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Few pop debuts are as memorable as Sting’s plaintive call, “Rox-anne! You don’t have to put on the red light!” – a plea from a man who fell in love with a prostitute. The song remains perhaps the most popular in The Police’s canon, even if a host of other songs charted significantly higher for the British band.

Nevertheless, Roxanne, which appeared on the band’s first album ‘Outlandos d’Amour’ in 1978, was the tip of the iceberg for the energetic trio, who burst on the New Wave scene with a fresh mix of rock, punk, and reggae.

That first album also produced the singles “Can’t Stand Losing You” and my favourite Police song, “So Lonely” (video below) – a tough call amidst other classics like the aforementioned “Roxanne,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Walking on the Moon.”

By the time the band was de-do-do-do-de-da-da-da-ing and releasing its fifth and last album in 1983, featuring their only No. 1 hit, “Every Breath You Take,” Rolling Stone was calling The Police the biggest band in the world – status that would ultimately see them called to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

The band had a brief reunion in 2007 for a tour that started in Vancouver, and Sting hit new heights as a solo act, but it’s for the energy and vitality of The Police’s too- short early career that we yet yearn.

Lyrics

Well, someone told me yesterday
That when you throw your love away
You act as if you just don’t care
You look as if you’re going somewhere

But I just can’t convince myself
I couldn’t live with no one else
And I can only play that part
And sit and nurse my broken heart

So lonely, so lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely

Now, no one’s knocked upon my door
For a thousand years or more
All made up and nowhere to go
Welcome to this one-man show

Just take a seat, they’re always free
No surprise, no mystery
In this theatre that I call my soul
I always play the starring role

So lonely, so lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely, so lonely
So lonely, so lonely, so lonely

I feel lonely, oh so lonely
I feel so alone
I feel low
I feel so, feel so low
I feel low, low

I feel low, low, low…
Low, I feel low
I feel low
I feel low
I feel so lonely
I feel so lonely
I feel so lonely, lonely, lonely, lone
Lonely, lone
I feel so alone, yeah

So lonely, so lonely, so lonely

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Signs Agreement With GURNER to Debut the St. Regis Brand in Australia

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St. Regis Gold Coast
St. Regis Gold Coast

Marriott International, Inc., today announced it has signed a management agreement with visionary property development company GURNER™ to bring the St. Regis brand to Australia’s Gold Coast. The landmark signing of The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort will bring the brand’s timeless glamour, rich heritage, bespoke Butler Service, and signature rituals to one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities upon its expected opening in 2027.

“This signing of The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort in Australia is momentous for Marriott International, and a wonderful advancement for the destination. The St. Regis brand promises a vanguard spirit steeped in history and tradition and is synonymous with global luxury. We appreciate GURNER Group’s confidence in selecting St. Regis as the centerpiece of its world-class mixed-use development. Their well-earned reputation for excellence and vision for the Gold Coast aligns exceptionally well with the very high standards we set for every St. Regis hotel around the world and we look forward to bringing to life an iteration of the brand that is modern, aspirational, and befits the lifestyle and energy of the Gold Coast,” said Richard Crawford, Vice President Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific for Marriott International.

The hotel is set to be part of the first tower in the $1.7 billion La Pelago project – a premier lifestyle resort and destination within the prestigious Budds Beach precinct. La Pelago will feature 12,000 square meters of exceptional lifestyle amenities including luxury residential residences, The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort, and over 5,500 square meters of international hospitality and retail, encompassed in a lush and private landscaped setting.

The new-build resort anticipates to feature approximately 185 guest rooms and suites that offer sweeping ocean and hinterland views. The hotel’s design is expected to celebrate the timeless glamour and storied legacy of the St. Regis brand in a modern and sophisticated way. An expansive porte cochere is slated to provide guests and locals alike with a glamorous sense of arrival, leading them to enjoy a state of exquisite ease in the resort’s signature spaces, with plans calling for a specialty restaurant, a world-class sky bar, pool bar, and exquisite lounge, and spa, along with a luxurious penthouse collection and signature St. Regis Bar.

The city’s most famed attractions and landmarks, including international designer shopping, a range of high-quality dining options, late-night entertainment, rooftop bars and cafes, and vast stretches of pristine white sandy surf beaches are all within easy reach from the hotel.

“We are truly delighted to work with GURNER to bring our globally recognized St. Regis brand to Australia,” said Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Marriott International, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific. “This signing is a testament to Marriott International’s continued commitment to growing our luxury portfolio in Australia and our confidence in the appeal of Australia as a leading tourism destination into the future.”

The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort expects to mark the fourth Marriott International property on the Gold Coast when it opens, adding to the company’s existing Queensland portfolio – JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast, W Brisbane, Brisbane Marriott Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane, The Westin Brisbane, Courtyard by Marriott South Bank Brisbane, and The Ritz-Carlton, Gold Coast which is expected to open in 2026. Marriott International currently operates 39 hotels across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, with 26 hotels in Australia.

“We are honored to be able to announce this deal with the team at Marriott International – St. Regis has always been my favorite hotel brand, and it is very exciting to be able to offer its world-class service, amenity, and luxury to our La Pelago residents, and to the Australian market for the first time,” said GURNER Group CEO Tim Gurner.

“We think the addition of such an illustrious and exclusive hotel brand will put the Gold Coast right back on the top of luxury travelers’ lists, and make it one of the hottest tourism markets in the world. The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort anticipates to perfectly complement the ultra-luxury amenity-rich residences at La Pelago, and we are looking forward to working with such an incredible brand.”

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
Combining timeless glamour with a vanguard spirit, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is committed to delivering exquisite experiences at more than 50 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Beginning with the debut of The St. Regis hotel in New York by John Jacob Astor IV at the dawn of the twentieth century, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. For more information and new openings, visit www.StRegis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. St. Regis 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 complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc., (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,200 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewsCenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

About GURNER Group
GURNER™ Group is an institutional-grade, private development, design, and lifestyle business that focuses on transforming landscapes and environments where people can live their best lives, across five business divisions spanning wellness, hospitality, property management, build-to-sell and build to rent property development.

The development arm, GURNER has a vision to create developments that stand alongside some of the world’s most iconic buildings. The company collaborates only with the finest caliber of architects, designers, and consultants from across the globe to set new benchmarks for luxury living in Australia. There is a commitment to innovation and attention to detail across all aspects, from design to construction.

Since its inception GURNER has continued to innovate, and, having recently acquired over 20 new sites across various asset classes from wellness, hospitality, luxury residential, and build-to-rent, the company has transformed into a truly multifaceted property, funds management, and luxury lifestyle brand under the GURNER Group portfolio.

Following the announcement of a successful $1.25bn fundraise for development and delivery of a new build-to-rent pipeline, GURNER now has active and future projects across Melbourne, wider Victoria, Sydney, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Brisbane and Port Douglas – making it the only private developer to have a truly national presence.

More information can be found at www.Gurner.com.au/ , or at its LinkedIn or Instagram pages.

Media Contact
Hermina Liscevic
The Mint Partners
HerminaTheMintPartners.com.au

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Ritz-Carlton Announces New Partnership with Diptyque

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The Ritz-Carlton and Diptyque

The Ritz-Carlton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, is excited to announce Diptyque as its new bath amenity partner. Known for its sophisticated scents and contemporary designs, Diptyque, the luxury French perfumerie, will bring its luxurious bath products to The Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts worldwide, in addition to launching an exclusive gift set in celebration of the collaboration.

The Ritz-Carlton, in collaboration with Diptyque, selected Philosykos as the signature scent. Showcasing notes of a sundrenched fig tree and inspired by the memory of a Greek summer at Mount Pelion, Philosykos perfectly captures the contemporary, sophisticated, and welcoming essence of The Ritz-Carlton brand, while illustrating both brands’ emphasis on the art of living through the senses.

“The collaboration with Diptyque exemplifies our commitment to excellence and to aligning with like-minded partners to continue to deliver world-class experiences for our guests,” commented Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. “We are thrilled to bring Diptyque’s exceptional bath products to Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts around the world in addition to giving loyal fans of both brands a unique way to celebrate with us this festive season.”

“Travel is an elegance we cultivate. Diptyque is therefore delighted to partner with The Ritz-Carlton as their exclusive bath amenity partner. To concoct our precious perfumes, we seek out the noblest ingredients from around the globe. With this partnership, we aim to provide an enchanting experience to all Ritz-Carlton guests,” said Julien Gommichon, President, Americas, Diptyque. “We are thrilled to be celebrating our partnership with the launch of our holiday pop-up and we look forward to greeting all guests with our exciting holiday offerings this season.”

This festive season The Ritz-Carlton brand will launch the exclusive Diptyque for The Ritz-Carlton gift set in celebration of the partnership. Featuring the Philosykos scent and candle wrapped in a bespoke pattern created by Diptyque for The Ritz-Carlton, gift sets will retail for $155 USD. The gift set will be available for purchase at The Ritz-Carlton Boutique as well as Diptyque holiday pop-up shops in select cities. Through the holiday pop-up, The Ritz-Carlton and Diptyque will bring to life the wonder of a starry December night that is inspired by Diptyque’s poetic map of stars, with shades of gold and silver illuminating the nightscape and spelling out the constellations. Guests are invited to experience the holiday pop-up in the following cities:

  • The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad: November 9 – December 24, 2022
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo: December 1 – 25, 2022
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin: November 18, 2022 – January 5, 2023
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong: November 25, 2022 – January 5, 2023
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto: December 1 – 25, 2022

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC, currently operates more than 100 hotels in 35 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.RitzCarlton.com, and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc., (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton 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 complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as 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. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. Download the Marriott app. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About Diptyque
It all began on the left bank of Paris, in 1961, when three aesthetic adventurers with eclectic passions and a marked sense of style opened a boutique at 34 boulevard Saint-Germain. It was perhaps the world’s first concept store, resembling a chic bazaar offering the founders’ creations – fabrics, wallpaper, cushions, and pot-pourri – as well as interesting things they found on their trips all over the world. Since this time, Diptyque has conquered the heart of Paris as a whole, before also traveling to the four corners of the Earth to share its unique art of living. Everywhere, those in the know recognize the signs – the typeface, the dancing letters, the black and white, the iconic ovals on the bottles (whose original design hangs upon the wall) – which all serve as promises of sensory experiences and daily pleasures.

Media Contact
Erica Flint
Director, Global Communications
Marriott International Luxury Brands
Erica.Flint@MarriottLuxuryBrands.com

Meg Connolly Communications
RitzCarlton@mcc-pr.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

W Hotels X Mambo Creatives to Unveil New Commissioned Works by Pilar Zeta and Miranda Makaroff at W South Beach During Art Basel Miami Beach

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“Future Transmutation” A Large-Scale Installation by Pilar Zeta
“Future Transmutation” A Large-Scale Installation by Pilar Zeta

Transition and transformation. Freedom and fluidity. Rising artists Pilar Zeta and Miranda Makaroff will explore these themes and more in two new installations at Art Basel Miami Beach 2022. In collaboration with W Hotels and Mambo Creatives, Zeta and Makaroff will stage their work at the recently renovated W South Beach from Tuesday, November 29, 2022 – Saturday, December 3, 2022.

For their Art Basel debut, W has found kindred spirits in Zeta and Makaroff, daring visionaries with vibrant, fresh perspectives who share values core to the iconic hotel brand such as inclusivity, curiosity, and originality. Both installations will be unveiled Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at Hands on Sand, the iconic party series hosted by music producer and DJ, Pascal Moscheni. From Ibiza to Paris, Hands on Sand invites guests to dance through an ocean of genres and experience an epiphany of what a real party should be.

“We could not think of two more dynamic or relevant artists to collaborate with than Pilar Zeta and Miranda Makaroff,” said Carly Van Sickle, Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, W Hotels Worldwide. “Their bold, yet playful aesthetic as well as the passion they infuse in their work is undeniable. We’re ready to kick off Art Basel Miami Beach with an unforgettable staging of their work at W South Beach and have the energy of our guests add to their visions.”

“Future Transmutation” A Large-Scale Installation by Pilar Zeta
When: Open to the Public: 9 a.m. ET -10 p.m. ET, Wednesday, November 30, 2022 – Sunday, December 4, 2022 (excluding private events Tuesday, November 29, 2022, from 7 p.m. ET – 12 a.m. ET, and Wednesday, November 30, 2022, from 12 – 3 p.m. ET)
Where: Lawn, W South Beach, 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Fla., 33139

On the heels of “Hall of Visions” – one of the most talked about works of Art Basel Miami Beach 2021 – Argentinian-born artist, Pilar Zeta returns with “Future Transmutation,” a new site-specific, large-scale interactive sculptural garden and pathway that engages mathematics, astronomy, and occult philosophies as creative devices. “Future Transmutation” is a reminder that, as living entities, we must come to terms with the fact that reality is a transforming one. In order to keep up with transmutation and metamorphosis we need imagination, which Zeta triggers with the help of symbolic meaning. Completely glazed in a violet hue, a color known to elevate our consciousness to a higher state, the piece presents us with a series of elements loosely based on traditional Masonic altarpieces.

In the center, 44 tiles (44 being the number of achievement) float above the lawn floor in a checkerboard arrangement, an allegory of the dualities of the self. As visitors step up onto this platform, they become immersed in glowing, iridescent light as well as interacting shapes, while the tiles become dynamic with movement and touch. Guarded by two candles with violet flames, Zeta urges visitors to look once more at the representation of a portal. Portals are places that harbor a limit. A space where two things meet, one starts and the other ends. Maybe it’s a privileged place for mysterious, magical things to happen. A space opening a new dimension. For imagining a transformation.

Several free-standing sculptures encircle the installation arranged in triangular shapes. Tension is present in two geometric bodies derived from Pithagoras’ mathematical theorem: a sphere, representing the fluid, flowing entities that adapt to the environment, and a pyramid, signifying fire, the energetic, forceful, moving things in the world. Finally, there is a sundial, a device connected to the sun’s movement and position. While everything is inviting us to move towards a future transmutation, looking at the sundial reminds us of the present moment we are living, and that our future self is happening in the transmutation now. It invites us to imagine a future with all our senses and explore what it will look like.

“Life presents many portals – many opportunities to transform who you are, where you are,” said Zeta. “Travel can be a portal, where one can disconnect and be in the moment. That’s what I want those to interact with ‘Future Transmutation’ to be: present while aligning with a future self.”

“An Amphibious Love Affair” A Creative Intervention by Miranda Makaroff
When: Open Exclusively to Guests of W South Beach
Where: WET Deck, W South Beach, 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Fla., 33139

A vibrant, psychedelic exploration of freedom and self-discovery, Ibiza-based artist Miranda Makaroff will debut “An Amphibious Love Affair” during Art Basel 2022. Staged in and around the WET Deck pool of W South Beach, Makaroff has created a colorful marine universe for guests to dare to explore. Like the siren at the center of the piece who goes into the depths of the water to fall in love with an amphibious, fluid creature – instead of doing what’s expected and going to the outer world to find her Prince – the artist invites guests to venture to the depths of their soul on a journey of self-discovery. A journey that includes a touch of joy, humor, and respect for everyone.

Makaroff’s “intervention” of the space includes cabanas adorned with neon as well as abstract, oceanic “creatures” buoyantly floating in the pool. Her underwater world will also come to life in exclusive pool towels, literally enveloping hotel guests in her vision.

“When concepting the piece, I wanted to inspire everyone to make their own path and set their own rules, no matter what society tries to impose,” said Makaroff. “W is a brand that stands for inclusivity, acceptance, and diversity so I wanted my piece to celebrate how welcome everyone will be when interacting with my art.”

About W Hotels Worldwide
Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has redefined hospitality for over two decades, breaking the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With nearly 60 hotels around the globe, the detail-driven design, iconic whatever/whenever service, and buzzing, signature Living Rooms create an experience that is often imitated but never matched. Dynamic and invigorating, the brand celebrates each traveler’s desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly W. For more information on W Hotels, visit www.WHotels.com/TheAngle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. W Hotels Worldwide 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 complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.Marriott.com.

About W South Beach
An oceanfront landmark, W South Beach reopened in November 2020 after a $30 million renovation of its guest suites, new spa, Away Spa, and leisure spaces, designed by Urban Robot Associates. The renovation embodies the culture and sophistication of the ever-evolving Miami without abandoning its signature edge factor. Fully integrated with the W Brand lifestyle experience, each guest at W South Beach receives a dedicated W Insider, available 24/7, who will take care of whatever/whenever from dinner reservations, grocery delivery, drivers, yacht charters, and more. W South Beach is home to the opulent Mr. Chow, which is known for its authentic Beijing cuisine; RWSB (Restaurant W South Beach) an American eatery led by Executive Chef Vincenzo Scarmiglia; Living Room Bar, a mixology Mecca; Irma’s, an outdoor oasis and craft cocktail outpost; WET, featuring two alluring swimming pools and newly renovated stylish cabanas; 10,000-square-feet of ultra-modern meeting and event space; FIT, its state-of-the-art fitness center and SWISH & SWING, a rooftop basketball court and tennis court. To find the latest in fashion, guests are able to shop at The Jennifer Miller x W the Store in the lobby. For more information, visit W South Beach, Facebook, Twitter @wsobe , and Instagram @wsouthbeach.

About Mambo Creatives
Mambo Creatives is a management and creative agency founded in December 2020 by Jaime Durán and currently based in Paris and Madrid. Mambo represents a wide range of creatives from different fields (fashion, arts, and music) including Pilar Zeta, Miranda Makaroff, and Pascal Moscheni. The philosophy behind their work is to bring together Brands, Artists, and their Communities to create cutting-edge experiences, generate relevant stories and reach the community that will give it voice. All whilst developing a new way of doing fashion and art: more inclusive, more vital, and more optimistic. Past projects include large-scale art installations in Miami and Ibiza, shows in LA or Cairo, events in Paris or Madrid, or projects for brands like Loewe, Gucci, Farfetch, Jean Paul Gaultier, or JW Anderson.

About Pilar Zeta
Argentinian-born artist Pilar Zeta (b. 1986) currently resides in the United States, working as a Multimedia Artist & Director. Her creations granted her international recognition, including a 2021 Grammy nomination for her role as Art Director for Coldplay’s “Everyday Life.” In 2021, Zeta was commissioned to do the main installation during Art Basel Miami Beach. Under the name “Hall of Visions,” this site-specific monumental installation was open to the public and lived forever in the form of NFTs in partnership with Aorist. Zeta’s art is heavily influenced by her upbringing (her mother was an art history teacher in Argentina) and a nascent interest in Ancient Egypt, cosmology, and metaphysics. Having been introduced to esoteric philosophies from a young age, Zeta’s understanding of Neo-Metaphysical concepts is ubiquitous throughout her various artistic creations. Zeta’s artistic style is defined by her minimalist, surrealist landscapes, her bold use of color, and of deconstructed shapes. She has described her artistic style as ‘mystical futurism’ and her allusions to ancient traditions concerning practical magic and innovative digital skills allow her to create liminal spaces in which both the past and the future are acknowledged and engaged. Some of Zeta’s most well-known collaborations are for influential musical artists such as Coldplay, Lil Nas X, and Camila Cabello, from album artwork to video direction and live performances.

About Miranda Makaroff
Miranda Makaroff (b. 1983) is a multidisciplinary artist: she paints, designs, acts, and sculpts. But overall, she celebrates women and brings their pleasures and desires to life in full color. Born in a family whose veins are filled with art – her mother is designer Lydia Delgado, and her father Singer Sergio Makaroff – her education was a continuous journey of finding inspiration. Makaroff runs away from traditional conventions and establishment and explores a visual universe with no restrictions, repressions, or censorship. A universe that travels as much as she does and has been showcased during Art Basel Miami Beach, and in galleries in Madrid and Ibiza.

About Pascal Moscheni
Pascal Moscheni is a DJ who’s mastered the art of reading a crowd. With over a decade in the game, formerly under the guise of Yanik Park, his deep digging sets see him blending Italian dream house, percussive, acid, and trance, always with skill and a provocative flair. As a producer, his time has been split between his own projects, which include music for close affiliates Ears On Earth and Polifonic Festival, and his work on shows and campaigns with high-end fashion brands including Loewe, Bottega Veneta, or Copernic. Now he’s focusing his attention on his party, Hands On Sand. Launched in the summer of 2021 in his Ibizan home, he’s already taken the event to different locations across the world, including Paris, Miami, Bogota, and New York. More recently, he’s extended the brand to include a monthly radio show on OpenLab, which will be an avenue to share his latest Discogs finds, spanning new electronic discoveries to forgotten dance floor classics.

Media Contact
Derek Kokinda
Manager, Global Communications, Luxury Brands
Marriott International
Derek.Kokinda@MarriottLuxuryBrands.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

OYO Vacation Homes and Joyned Announce Global Partnership

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OYO Vacation Homes and Joyned Announce Global Partnership - TRAVELINDEXJerusalem, Israel, November 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Israeli start-up Joyned has today announced a commercial partnership with one of Europe’s leading vacation homes rental companies, OYO Vacation Homes. The partnership will see OYO test Joyned’s group booking software across its vacation homes brands in Europe.

A global platform that provides full-stack technology to homeowners to help them secure customers from around the world, OYO’s current proposition will be further enhanced by Joyned’s Friends & Family (F&F) booking functionality.

Joyned Booking enables online users to invite friends to an online travel agency or hotelier website, and collaborate in a private, on-site platform to discuss and book their group trip. By keeping Friends & Family (F&F) travellers on their site and making it easy for them to book a trip, hotel and travel sites using Joyned typically enjoy a higher conversion rate and a 10% increase in overall website revenue.

Jonathan Abraham, CEO of Joyned, commented on the partnership; “We are thrilled to be partnering with OYO Vacation Homes to bring seamless group booking to thousands of travellers across the globe. With OYO’s mission so closely aligned with our own, this partnership felt like a natural evolution for both parties. Together we’ll continue to strive to make it easier for homes and travel sites to increase revenue, provide a superior user experience and build customer trust and loyalty.”

In addition to giving OYO’s customers a superior group booking experience, Joyned will also provide valuable data and insight into this key demographic for OYO Vacation Homes. These insights will include F&F travel price perception, sentiment analysis, and mapping of the group booking customer buying journey.

Vivek Khetan, VP Growth and Marketing at OYO Vacation Homes, said “In OYO Vacation Homes, we have built a solid value proposition by ensuring that our guests enjoy easy booking and reliable, hassle-free holidays. We achieve this by applying innovative tech to our homes across the globe. We strongly believe that partnerships like this with Joyned can help us to better understand the needs and expectations of our guests and to continue offering the best service to our homeowners.” 

The partnership has already gone live in Germany, The Netherlands, and Denmark, with plans for rollout across the rest of Europe by early 2023.

About Joyned
Joyned enables customers who go on holiday together to book together, making the travel booking experience collaborative. It provides a cross-website, live experience for online shoppers, empowering travel sites of all sizes to own their shoppers’ natural social engagements directly on-site.

To date, travel sector sites using Joyned Booking have seen a conversion rate of four times their baseline, with a 25% higher average order value. Joyned Booking also provides a 90% invite-to-website click-through-rate due to its cross-website, live booking experience, which offers a real-time connection for users.

About Jonathan Abraham, CEO, Joyned
Jonathan Abraham is the CEO and founder of Joyned – the travel booking innovator. A committed entrepreneur and experienced speaker, he built his first profitable business at the age of thirteen and has continued doing the same in other ventures since then. Jonathan established Joyned to disrupt the travel market and innovate it into a social experience. Joyned is the voice of authority in the travel booking space: fashioning a better – more social – booking experience, that will yield better business results.

About OYO Vacation Homes
OYO Vacation Homes (OVH), is one of the leading vacation rental companies in Europe and part of OYO Hotels & Homes, a leading chain of hotels, homes, and spaces operating on a worldwide basis. The organization is active with full-service provider brands like Belvilla by OYO, DanCenter and Danland, taking care of the entire rental process for homeowners, as well as the online marketplace Traum-Ferienwohnungen. OYO Vacation Homes’ ambition is to become the preferred choice vacation home brand in the world that delivers a full-stack experience for both homeowners and guests.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Heats Up the Sand in Cam Ranh Vietnam

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Meliá Heats Up the Sand in Cam Ranh Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City,  Vietnam, November 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Along the beachfront in one of Vietnam’s most alluring coastal destinations, Sol by Meliá Cam Ranh Bay is readying for a debut on the south-central coast in Q4, 2023.

The new ocean-inspired property by Meliá Hotels International is part of a wave of new hotel openings in Asia for the Spanish hotel group, which is the second largest international hotel group in Vietnam.

“For decades, our company has led the leisure and bleisure hospitality in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, so we look forward to contributing to the development of the key holiday destinations in Asia-Pacific, bringing the most innovative hotel experiences to meet the expectations of modern travellers” said Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International.

The Sol by Melia complex will boast 816 keys and include four dining outlets, multiple swimming pools with separate adult and family areas, a spacious spa situated on its own island, a kids club, extensive MICE facilities, and a fitness center and sports club with tennis courts.

The main hotel at the heart of the complex will offer 167 rooms and suites on 15 floors. Another 111 keys will fan out in 40 villas and 29 bungalows from the main building towards the white sands of Cam Ranh Bay, and two condotel towers (with a combined 538 keys) will flank each side of the spiral-shaped main building.

A nautical theme anchors both the interiors and exteriors with rich ocean colors from turquoise blue to golden sand and pops of bold coral. The sculptural decor and lighting in the lobby, dining spaces, and rooftop sky lounge, is inspired by creatures of the sea. The facades of the condotels are reminiscent of dynamic yacht lines, while the hotel building curls like a Nautilus shell.

Tropical landscaping with towering palm trees and lakes connect the spaces. The 12-treatment room spa sits prominently as a wellness oasis at the center of one of the largest ponds with massage bungalows spanning out above the water from the Sol Spa’s center. The wellness space also features several jacuzzies and saunas, along with relaxation areas with private gardens.

With the Sol by Melia brand’s focus on family, the property has extensive facilities for children including a kids’ club with sensory spaces, reading area, ball pit and nap room. One of the main pools will also count with a miniature water park with slides for children.

“While we have lots for kids, when we think of family we also move beyond the traditional definition,” added Ignacio Martin, Meliá’s Managing Director for Southeast Asia. “We believe in the idea of a tribe and realize that a tribe looks different to everyone. With that in mind we have plenty for adults at all our Sol by Melia properties.”

There are currently 58 Sol by Meliá properties in beautiful beachfront destinations around the world including Spain, Cape Verde, and the Caribbean. Sol by Meliá Cam Ranh Bay will be the fourth Sol property in Southeast Asia and the 27th Melia Hotels International’s property in Vietnam.

The new hotel will be owned by HONG NGOC VIET TRAVEL & INVESTMENT JSC, a Khanh Hoa based investment company.

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 Sol by Meliá
Originally launched in 1956, Sol by Meliá is one of the oldest and most popular brands of the company. Relaunched in summer 2015 following a full rebrand, Sol by Meliá has created four signature concepts, which cater to the evolving expectations of today’s modern leisure travellers looking for a sun and beach holiday, from family hotels to adults-oriented experiences. The four concepts include Sol House, Sol Beach House, Sol by Meliá and Sol Katmandu Park & Resort.

Sol House is aimed toward young millennials, with focuses on music, design, energy and affordable lifestyle experiences.

Sol Beach House caters for adults looking for a relaxing holiday with a hippie-chic style that combines modernity with a vintage touch. The properties have a focus on relaxation and wellbeing, for young travelers looking for a high-end experience with a lower price point.

Sol Katmandu Park & Resort offers a fun and innovative ‘play and stay’ all-inclusive experience for families and groups of friends with the resort fully integrated in the theme park.

Sol by Meliá are beachside properties located across the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, South East Asia and the Caribbean.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News