Global Travel News

PolyU Establishes Tan Siu Lin Innovation Hub to Advance Hospitality and Tourism Education

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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, October 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is privileged to announce the establishment of the Tan Siu Lin Innovation Hub with the generous support of the Tan Siu Lin Foundation.

Committed to providing students with an inspirational and flexible learning environment conducive to creativity and innovation, the Tan Siu Lin Innovation Hub is one of the major facilities of the SHTM. It is officially opened today by Dr Tan Siu Lin, Founder, Tan Siu Lin Foundation; Mrs Jennifer Su Tan, Executive Director, Tan Siu Lin Foundation; Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President, PolyU; and Professor Kaye Chon, SHTM Dean, Chair Professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management.

At today’s opening ceremony, Mrs Su Tan said, “PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management is one of the best hospitality programmes in the world, and our Foundation is excited with the opening of Tan Siu Lin Innovation Hub. This will give students opportunity to stay up-to-date with technological advances which are very important to the future of the industry.”

Thanked the Tan Siu Lin Foundation for contributing to a successful educational partnership. “I believe the Foundation’s support will empower young people with opportunities to excel and to benefit the community and the world they belong,” she said. “It will also give a fresh impetus to the SHTM’s ongoing efforts in the advancement of hospitality and tourism education and research.” The new facility ensures that SHTM students have experience using the latest technology available in the industry, nurturing them to become global-minded leaders in the digital age.

Located on the third floor with a net floor area of 132.8 m2, the Tan Siu Lin Innovation Hub is equipped with state-of-the-art digital equipment and specialised software for the industry, ensuring an environment in which students are empowered to reach their full potentials. With classes regularly held in the Innovation Hub, and Executive Development Programmes making use of the facility, a broad range of learners, researchers and scholars will benefit from the facility. The Hub highlights the SHTM’s determination to stay at the forefront in the digital age, exemplifying the School’s motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

“This benefaction does not only play an important role in the advancement of hospitality and tourism education, but also demonstrates the industry’s deep commitment in nurturing future leaders,” Dean Kaye Chon said. With Tan Siu Lin Foundation’s unwavering support, the School expects more success and greater contributions in the years ahead. “The SHTM is a recognised leader in hospitality and tourism education and research,” he continued, “We are committed to nurturing the industry’s finest, empowering them to lead the industry into its sustainable future.”

About PolyU’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management
For over 40 years, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2022 for the sixth consecutive year, placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2021/2022 for five years in a row, rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017, and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 for the sixth consecutive year, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from diverse cultural backgrounds, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Anam Group Announces Three Senior Recruitments

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Cam Ranh, Vietnam, October 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anam Group has called on Laurent Myter, a hospitality veteran with almost three decades’ experience managing luxury hotels and resorts, to spearhead its expansion and oversee its growing number of properties.

The group has also named Martin Koerner, who has a substantial background in sales and marketing, as group commercial director. Ye Chang Sheng (Peter), who has worked for the group’s first resort Anam Cam Ranh since its 2017 debut, has been promoted to resort manager of the group’s second property, Anam Mui Ne, due to celebrate its grand opening in January

Myter comes to the group after working at YTL Hotels for 26 years, of which 23 years were based in Malaysia where he became YTL’s ‘executive vice president operations resorts’ responsible for 12 hotels and resorts in Southeast Asia and France. He has been an executive director and the president of Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s International Advisory Board of Hoteliers for three years and two years respectively.

German national Koerner, an impassioned volunteer, returns to the Anam Group after previously working for almost four years as the group’s director of sales, marketing and distribution and the Anam Cam Ranh’s director of sales and marketing from late 2016 until mid 2020. Before his return to the group Koerner helped establish Optimum Hospitality, a specialist hotel and resort asset management and hospitality consultancy company for owners and investors, and was also Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s commercial director for almost two years.

Prior to his new role, Ye worked as the Anam Group’s executive assistant manager at Anam Cam Ranh. He joined the resort in 2017 as its executive chef and played an instrumental role in establishing its four restaurants and three bars. Ye has worked as a chef at InterContinental and Hilton hotels in South Africa, and took charge of the kitchen at Mia Resort Nha Trang as executive chef for two years before joining the Anam.

“Laurent, Martin and Peter all have excellent track records in hospitality leadership and innovation; their rich and diversified experience will propel our group’s aspirations to significantly expand in Vietnam,” said the group’s founder Pham Van Hien.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Chiang Mai Celebrates Loy Krathong Festival

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Chiang Mai, Thailand, October 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Chiang Mai’s sky-high restaurant will offer an exquisite four-course dinner menu to mark Thailand’s traditional water festival Loy Krathong.

Also known as Yi Peng and unique to northern Thailand, the festival will be held 8 November to coincide with the full moon on the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar. The festival gives thanks to the River Goddess and symbolises letting go of negative energy and starting life afresh in the coming year.

To be staged at the hotel’s signature restaurant on the 21st floor, Mai Restaurant & Bar, that specialises in northern Thai cuisine with Mediterranean influences, the four-course menu will be accompanied by spectacular views of Chiang Mai city by night.

Crafted by Meliá Chiang Mai’s executive chef Suksant Chutinthratip (Billy) and Mai Restaurant & Bar’s Sous Chef Karn Phojun, the menu starts with a trio of Thai appetisers:

  • A crispy shrimp basket
  • Egg net-wrapped peppery shrimp
  • A golden parcel stuffed with chicken curry

Tom Yum soup seasoned with a paste of wild chili, prawns and winter mushrooms is the second course.

The main course is a choice between baked salmon trout with green chili relish, wok-fried locally grown edible ferns and safflower rice or slow-cooked tender pork ribs in Khao Soi curry sauce served with home pickled vegetables, garbanzo beans and potato. The menu is topped off with a ‘Loy Kratong treasure basket’ featuring a collection of Thai desserts.

Available on 8 – 9 November 2022 for dinner between 6pm – 10pm, the four-course dinner menu is THB 2,999 nett per couple including a glass of red or white wine and selection of fine teas or Spanish coffee.

For further information or to make a booking, call 052 090 603

Price is inclusive of 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

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.

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.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Wins Placement on Prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Awards

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia, October 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic 90-year-old luxury hotel in the Cambodian capital, was named one of the Top 10 hotels in Southeast Asia by readers of the US-based travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler.

The 175-room landmark heritage property was also ranked the No. 1 hotel in Cambodia in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards, which, now in their 35th year, are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

“Our remarkable history, world-class service and timeless elegance are truly extraordinary, and this recognition—being voted the top hotel in Cambodia by some of the world’s most discerning travelers—offers further testament to that sentiment,” said Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s General Manager Dennis de Groot.

Designed in the 1920s by French architect Ernest Hébrard, the hotel is an imposing statement of Khmer, Art Deco and French Colonial styles and includes four suites dedicated to previous guests Jacqueline Kennedy, Charles de Gaulle, Andre Malraux and Somerset Maugham.

Hotel Le Royal originally opened its doors with just 55 rooms in 1929. It was taken over by Raffles in the 1990s at the invitation of Cambodia’s King Sihanouk, and relaunched as Raffles Hotel Le Royal in 1997 after a sensitive extension and refurbishment. To protect this treasure of Cambodian heritage, local artisans were commissioned to recreate painted ceilings, decorative beaten copper crests and outdoor sculptures.

Each of the rooms and suites at Raffles Hotel Le Royal underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. Returning guests found lighter and brighter interiors, accentuated by spotlights, in addition to Segafredo coffee machines and Simmons pillow-top mattresses among the new features that add modern appeal. Traditionalists appreciate that the heart and soul of the vintage luxury hotel has been thoughtfully maintained, with polished hardwood floors, whirring ceiling fans, and old brass rotary telephones.

A witness to much of Cambodia’s modern history, Raffles Hotel Le Royal celebrated its 90th anniversary in November 2019.

For more information or to make a booking, call +855 23 981 888.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Speakers Announced for WTTC Global Summit in Saudi Arabia

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WTTC - Speakers Announced for WTTC Global Summit in Saudi Arabia - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.comRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveils its first round of confirmed speakers for its upcoming Global Summit to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, which includes leaders from some of the world’s largest Travel & Tourism businesses, Saudi officials, and tourism ministers from around the world.

Taking place at the magnificent King Abdul Aziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh from 28 November to 1 December, the global tourism body’s highly anticipated 22nd Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event in the calendar.

Under the theme “Travel for a Better Future” the event will focus on the value of the sector, not only to the global economy, but to the planet and communities around the world.

During the Global Summit, industry leaders and international government officials from across the globe will gather in Riyadh to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery and address the challenges the future poses to ensure a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Travel & Tourism sector.

Business leaders set to take to the stage include Arnold Donald, Vice Chair of the Board of Carnival Corporation and WTTC Chair; Anthony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International; Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai International Airports; Christopher Nassetta, President and CEO, Hilton; Matthew Upchurch, President & CEO, Virtuoso, and Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority, among others.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to have such influential speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Riyadh.

“The government of Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in the recovery of the Global Travel & Tourism sector following two years of crisis, and we are delighted to be taking our Global Summit to the Kingdom this year.

“Set to become a major tourist destination, our latest research shows that Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector will surpass pre-pandemic levels next year and will see the fastest growth across the Middle East over the next decade.”

His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism, said: “WTTC will arrive in Riyadh as tourism enters a new era of recovery. Bringing together global leaders from both the public and private sector, the Summit will be fundamental in building the better, brighter future the sector deserves.

“There is no doubt our ambitious investment, sustainability and travel experience goals can be realized through global collaboration and WTTC’s Global Summit in Riyadh will provide a platform for these important conversations, while ensuring visitors enjoy the hospitality and opportunities of one of the world’s fastest growing tourism destinations.”

The event will also welcome government speakers such as Secretary Rita Marques, Secretary of State for Tourism Portugal; the Hon. Isaac Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Bahamas; Sen. the Hon. Lisa Cummins, Minister of Tourism and International Transport Barbados; Mrs. Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism Bahrain; the Hon Susanne Kraus-Winkler, State Secretary for Tourism Austria; the Hon Mitsuaki Hoshino, Vice Commissioner Japan Tourism Agency, and H.E. Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Minister of Culture and Tourism Turkey, among others.

Government officials from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will also address delegates at the Global Summit. They include His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Minister of Energy; His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, and Her Highness Princess Haifa Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Partners with Ojimah for Branding and Innovation in African Tourism

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UNWTO Partners with Ojimah for Branding and Innovation in African Tourism - TOURISMAFRICA.org - TRAVELINDEXArusha, Tanzania, October 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO is to work with Ojimah to make positive storytelling and digitalization key drivers of tourism recovery across Africa.

Building on UNWTO Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth, the new agreement will see the two parties work together around shared goals and priorities. As a multichannel platform with reach across the continent, Ojimah will advocate for ‘Brand Africa’, enhancing the image of the region on the global stage through positive stories from across the tourism sector.

Ojimah will advocate for ‘Brand Africa’, enhancing the image of the region on the global stage through positive stories from across the tourism sector

• For the African branding portal , Connecting Africa to the World, go to TourismAfrica.org

The agreement will also see UNWTO and Ojimah collaborate in supporting the digital transformation of African tourism, with the aim of both enhancing the tourist experience and helping destinations become more competitive and resilient as they recover from the impacts of the pandemic. Additionally, recognizing the sector’s potential to advance sustainable development and growth, the partnership will focus on supporting local communities, including through the creation of jobs.

Looking beyond the short-term recovery of African tourism, the Memorandum of Understanding signed by UNWTO and Ojimah also sets out plans to work with African governments to enhance connectivity across the continent. Priorities include embracing innovation to improve visa facilitation policies, above all through the expansion of e-visas, allowing for smooth and seamless travel between destinations.  To advance all of these goals, the partnership will also focus on capacity building, with key stakeholders from both public and private sectors, to be supported in their shift to digital and branding initiatives.

• For the African branding portal , Connecting Africa to the World, go to TourismAfrica.org

The MoU between UNWTO and Ojimah was signed within the framework of the 65th UNWTO Regional Commission for Africa, Arusha and will remain in force until the end of 2024.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

NO TRICKS JUST TREATS: Halloween fun on Broadway

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A trip to New York would be incomplete without taking in a Broadway play. And whatever better way to celebrate Halloween in the city, that with a spooky show suited to the season?

To that end, the Broadway Collection ia highlighting a variety of shows that offer everything from the god of death in the underworld to high-flying, gravity defying witches.

Here are three delightfully wicked theatrical productions guaranteed to get the juices flowing at or around Oct. 31:

Hadestown

Starting deep in the underworld, Hadestown intertwines the two mythic tales of Hades and Persephone, and Orpheus and Eurydice. The smash hit directed by Rachel Chavkin offers travellers a ticket on the road to hell. As they board the train down to Hadestown, they go on a journey full of beguiling, haunting melodies and a story that doubles as a celebration of togetherness and music as it pits industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love.

Beetlejuice

Back at sea level, it’s showtime. Beetlejuice makes his Broadway return in the edgy musical comedy based on the dearly beloved Tim Burton film about the dearly departed. Following the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and the ghost-with-the-most, who Lydia calls upon to scare away anyone with a pulse. A (Nether)world of pandemonium, guests will have an unforgettable time – as long as they don’t say his name three times.

Wicked

Soaring high above 50th street on a bubble and a broomstick, the witches in the Broadway sensation, Wicked, tell a heartwarming story of unlikely friendship. Long before Dorothy arrived in the Land of Oz, the Wicked Witches of the East and West have their own sides of the story to tell. Since 2003, the show has been thrilling audience members with its heart and wit, telling the story of an emerald-green, misunderstood witch and her bubbly blond, exceptionally popular counterpart, and their journey from nemeses to friends.

To ensure they are able to see one of the shows at the top of their list this Halloween, travellers are advised to book their tickets in advance with their preferred travel agent or through the Broadway Collection website.

The Broadway Collection is offered by Broadway Inbound, a global travel industry ticket source for live theatrical events in New York City and beyond, providing tour and travel professionals with direct access to event info and ticket inventory.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Best Western Signs its World’s Largest Residential Project in Ho Chi Minh City

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Best Western Signs its World's Largest Residential Project in Ho Chi Minh City - BESTWESTERN HOTELS ASIA - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam, October 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts has signed two agreements for a major new Best Western Premier residential project in Ho Chi Minh City, marking an important milestone in the company’s Vietnamese expansion strategy.

At a recent signing ceremony in Vietnam, Best Western came together with Matterhorn Hotels & Resorts, which manages and operates premium real estate for the Sunshine Group, to seal two highly significant contracts related to the stunning Sunshine Diamond River development. Best Western will now provide consultancy services for the project, and a franchise agreement will lead to this prestigious riverside development being branded as the Best Western Premier Sunshine Diamond River.

Upon opening, Best Western Premier Sunshine Diamond River will become Best Western’s first property in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city. Set on the banks of the Saigon River, this spectacular urban resort-style complex will feature the largest number of Best Western Premier branded apartments worldwide, with 3,125 keys. A mix of smart residences, penthouses and sky villas will each feature its own hanging garden, contemporary furnishings and modern technology, enhanced by the five-star standards and services of the Best Western Premier brand.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior delegations from both companies, including Mrs. Hoang Thi My Binh, Deputy General Director of Sunshine Group and Chairman of Matterhorn Hotels & Resorts; Mr. Ron Pohl, President of International Operations, BWH Hotel Group®; and Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Managing Director of International Operations – Asia, BWH Hotel Group.

“We are delighted to sign these agreements for our largest branded residence in the world and our company’s inaugural property in Ho Chi Minh City. We have been very impressed with the quality of the Sunshine Diamond River project and the professionalism of our partners. Branded residences are a growing global trend, so this development represents a major step forward in the expansion and evolution of our portfolio. We look forward to working with Matterhorn and Sunshine Group as we bring this outstanding property to life,” said Mr. Ron Pohl, President of International Operations, BWH Hotel Group.

Best Western has identified Vietnam as one of its most important strategic markets. The company currently provides three properties in the country – Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc and Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long – with at least 26 new hotels and resorts scheduled to open by the end of 2023, in key cities, beach resorts and emerging destinations nationwide. These new openings will introduce more of Best Western’s diverse portfolio of 18 brands to Vietnam, including Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, BW Premier Collection®, BW Signature Collection® and Executive Residency by Best Western®, as well as additional Best Western Premier hotels.

For more information about Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia, please visit www.bestwesternasia.com

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts
Best Western Hotels and Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, BW Premier Collection®, and BW Signature Collection®. Through the acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive, and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio are SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection®, and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mövenpick to Open Newest Resort in Phan Thiet Vietnam

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Mövenpick to Open Newest Resort in Phan Thiet Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXPhan Thiet, Vietnam, October 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is excited to unveil its latest address in Phan Thiet, a port city in Southeast Vietnam. The new hotel brings Swiss-inspired hospitality to the expansive entertainment complex by NovaWorld, which consists of a golf course and a collection of theme parks.

The unique concept of Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet is inspired by Port Royal Castle, the former capital of the infamous Caribbean pirates and features Dutch colonial architectural elements. The resort is located in the capital of the Binh Thuan Province, on the southeast coast of Vietnam, a 4-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.

Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet features 248 guestrooms and suites, with premium facilities orientated towards families, couples and adventurers. In addition, the resort boasts two swimming pools, a spa and fitness centre, and five restaurants and bars.

Thoughtfully designed for families and adventurers looking to make meaningful connections and lasting memories, the resort offers spacious rooms and family suites complete with bunk beds. The Classic and Deluxe room categories offer at least 25 square metres of space, with tropical-inspired interiors and a balcony to enjoy views of the colourful townhouse or the signature Queen Anne Revenge ship. Guests staying in the Executive room categories can enjoy beautiful ocean views and access to the Admiral Executive lounge. The 70 square metre Executive Family suites feature bunk beds and panoramic ocean views from the large balcony making this room an ideal choice for a family vacation. The 69 square metre Admiral Suite offers ocean views, with a large balcony and separate living room areas and access to the Admiral Executive Lounge.

Complemented by five restaurants and bars with menus inspired by Swiss culinary traditions, Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet is a destination where indulgence is done right. The spacious Bounty restaurant and bar offers the signature Mövenpick breakfast buffet in the morning and sumptuous seafood menus for dinner. For those who prefer a cosy yet intimate dining experience, Black Pearl serves a special globetrotter pirate menu that blends Caribbean specialties.

The Captain Lounge is located in the lobby and offers the brand’s signature daily Mövenpick Chocolate Hour with pirate-inspired pastries paired with Mövenpick coffee. Guests who prefer to enjoy the sea breeze can choose to visit Treasure Island pool bar to enjoy smoothies, cocktails and comfort foods from the bar’s sunbeds. Located on the 9th floor, the Admiral Executive Lounge serves a breakfast buffet and a la carte menus for guests staying in Executive Rooms and Suites, complemented by happy hours, pre-dinner canapés and a selection of international wine and cigars.

“We are delighted to bring Mövenpick to the market while also expanding Accor’s footprint into emerging destinations across Vietnam. Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet will continue the brand’s mission to create dreams, memories and unforgettable experiences for our valued guests. Designed with a unique theme and an array of family-orientated facilities, the resort is an exciting addition to our portfolio of four properties across Vietnam,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor Southeast Asia, South Korea and Japan.

Developed as the first Mövenpick property in the highly sought after beach destination of Phan Thiet, the resort is built to help bring people together, enable connections and create magical culinary moments. Notable property features include a Treasure Island lagoon pool and a custom pirate ship positioned in the middle of the pool, ready for young guests to explore and enjoy.

The resort’s Oasis Wellness & Spa offers a selection of Vietnamese and Thai massages paired with modern holistic treatments and the latest international skincare enhancements by certified therapists. The spa caters to both couples and solo travellers with treatment packages such as the Legend of Love, Awakening Himalayan Singing Bowls or Sanctuary Pampering all of which leave guests feeling rejuvenated.

An emerging holiday destination with a tropical climate, Phan Thiet boasts a number of unique attractions such as the Mui Ne fishing village where visitors can select fresh seafood under the shade of palm trees, the breath-taking Red Sand dunes – one of the most photographed locations in Vietnam, or the White Sand Dunes where Adventure lovers can ride across the landscapes in a jeep.

“We’re delighted to be introducing the premium hospitality offerings of Mövenpick to Phan Thiet. Bordered by the beautiful ocean, fishing villages and theme parks, this is a hotel to indulge in and will certainly serve as a destination in itself, complemented by Mövenpick’s rich culinary legacy and heartfelt approach to hospitality. Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet is sure to become a remarkable holiday choice for guests seeking joy and an array of premium lifestyle experiences”, said Mr. Michael Vorderleitner, General Manager of Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet.

To celebrate the hotel’s opening, Mövenpick Resort Phan Thiet guests can enjoy a special opening offer of USD324 ++ for two nights, including accommodation in a classic room, breakfast for two adults and two children under 12 years old, one set lunch or dinner for two, complimentary Circus Land tickets for two adults and two children and a 10% discounts on treatments at Oasis Wellness and Spa.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cardamom Tented Camp Sustainable Hotel Award for Climate Action

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Cardamom Tented Camp Sustainable Hotel Award for Climate Action - TRAVELINDEX - VISITCAMBODIAChamkarmorn, Cambodia, October 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Cardamom Tented Camp in Cambodia has won the 2022 Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) Sustainable Hotel Award for Climate Action.

Apart from climate action, there were awards for building preservation/adaptive reuse, positive community impact, and sustainable design. Seven judges, mostly from institutional sustainability backgrounds, assessed the submissions. The BHN Group, which runs the HICAP event, announced the winners on 12 October.

The judges based the climate action decision on Cardamom Tented Camp’s ability to work with partners to preserve 180 sq km of lowland rainforest in the Botum Sakor national park in southwest Cambodia. On climate action, it is estimated that the forest that the camp helps protect sequesters about 108,652 tons of carbon per year, according to Wildlife Works.

Since opening in 2017, the tented camp’s motto has been, “Your Stay Keeps the Forest Standing.” It makes the claim because monthly salaries of 10 Wildlife Alliance forest rangers are supplemented by profits from the camp. The rangers protect the habitat from illegal poachers, loggers, riverbank sand dredgers and land encroachers.

Populations of elephant, leopard, python, sun bear, otter, pangolin and other wildlife are increasing due to camp-funded ranger patrols. The rangers have forced poachers to the perimeters, or out of the park altogether.

“Despite setbacks during the two Covid years when tourism income greatly disappeared, Cardamom Tented Camp persevered in its environmental mission,” said Willem Niemeijer, CEO of camp operator YAANA Ventures. “We are grateful to HICAP for recognising our staying power and ability to work with partners to keep the forest standing, with all the benefits that brings,” he said.

HICAP judges also took into consideration the camp’s strong contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals such as life on land, clean and affordable energy, decent work, economic growth, climate action, and partnerships. Cardamom Tented Camp is a partnership with Minor Hotel Group’s sustainability arm, the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Wildlife Alliance, and YAANA Ventures.

Beyond sequestering an estimated 108,652 tons of CO2 annually, the judges also recognised Cardamom Tented Camp’s additional environmental efforts. BHN noted: “The camp is powered by 100% onsite solar power for its electricity, has low impact heating and cooking, and natural wastewater filtration processes. The property recycles as much as possible and uses 100% organic personal care products. Future plans include powering its boat with an electric battery, increasing local and onsite food sourcing, and undertaking community activities for conservation.”

As well as Cardamom Tented Camp’s environmental efforts, it also scores well on hospitality and all-round guest experience metrics. The camp’s guest satisfaction levels are rated 5.0 – excellent – by TripAdvisor, and have been so for three years

After Covid impacts, YAANA Ventures estimates Cardamom Tented Camp will close 2022 with about 80% of 2019’s occupancy and will return to profitable levels in 2023. YAANA Ventures says it will then increase contributions to the forest rangers.

In the 2022 HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards, Soneva Fushi in the Maldives won for positive community impact. Lyf one-north in Singapore won for sustainable design.

About Cardamom Tented Camp
Cardamom Tented Camp is an ecolodge located in the foothills of the Cardamom Mountains in Cambodia. The nine-unit tented camp, with restaurant pavilion, staff dormitory, ecotourism equipment and boat pier, uses solar power to run lodge amenities. The camp has its own waste water filtration process. There is no road access. The camp is accessible only by river boat – or forest hike.

The lodge aims to minimize the human footprint on the natural world and serve as a role model in promoting sustainable ecotourism practices within both the national park and Cambodia as a whole. Located on an 18,000-hectare (180 sq km) concession, the lodge and its surroundings are home to pristine lowland and coastal habitats linking wildlife corridors to the Cardamom Mountains. Eco-friendly trekking and kayaking packages are available for adventure enthusiasts who are keen to be a part of real conservation work.

Cardamom Tented Camp is a three-way initiative between Minor Group, YAANA Ventures and Wildlife Alliance to ensure the land and its biodiversity does not fall into the hands of loggers, poachers and sand dredging operations.

About YAANA Ventures
YAANA Ventures is an owner, partner and operator of entrepreneurial travel and hospitality ventures in Asia. YAANA Ventures distinguishes itself by sharing real experiences that are grounded in the cultural richness of Asia. The company is the champion of the triple bottom-line. It empowers its ventures with the values to nurture the people with whom it works.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News