Global Travel News

GLOW Mira Karon Beach in Phuket is Now Open

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Phuket, Thailand, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The GLOW hotel brand is shining a fresh light on the popular tourist destination of Phuket with the grand opening of GLOW Mira Karon Beach this month.

Located a few minute’s walk from the white powder sands of one of Phuket’s longest beaches, the hotel holds a prime position with easy access to the ocean and the area’s lively dining and nightlife scene. The property features two main dining outlets, the all-day restaurant, Chen’s, and the chill Lobby Bar, as well as a Pool Bar, for light bites and drinks.

Chen’s offers guests the choice of indoor or outdoor seating with a private terrace surrounded by tropical foliage. The menu ranges from traditional Thai favorites, such as curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, to western-style comfort food like burgers, pasta, and pizza.

The 154-room hotel has a selection of room types ranging from the 20m2 Standard (King) through to Family Suites, at 42m2, with bunk beds for the children and a plush king-sized bed for adults. All rooms also feature a 49” flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a rain shower and handheld shower in private bathrooms, along with private balconies to drink in the sea view. The contemporary playful design, with pops of bold colors, is inspired by the island’s heritage and the colorful Sino-Portuguese style of Old Phuket town. This vibrant aesthetic can be found throughout the hotel, including in the spacious lobby area.

“With our newest GLOW hotel in Phuket, we wanted to create a fun, contemporary place that also incorporated elements of the island’s rich history,” said Markus Gloor, Director of Operations.
GLOW Mira Karon Beach also features a 24-hour fitness center with a full selection of cardio equipment and weights.

The property is the seventh GLOW hotel to open in Thailand and the latest addition to the Fusion Hotel Group’s growing portfolio. In July the company opened Fusion Original Saigon Centre in Vietnam and the group has plans to open a new GLOW property in Bangkok in December 2022.

Room rates start at THB 999++ per night. 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Celebrates Anniversary with Live Well, Travel Well Campaign

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Singapore, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, kicks off this year’s anniversary celebrations with its biggest campaign of the year, and exclusive offerings across its diversified multi-branded portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, and gallery outlets across 23 countries.

From 14 September to 4 October 2022, the inaugural “Live Well, Travel Well” campaign invites travellers to reconnect with the world with 33% savings on stays and spa journeys, as well as indulge in retail therapy with handcrafted gifts and signature spa skincare products.

Known for landscapes of pristine nature and rich history, as well as opening in exciting new bustling metropolises, Banyan Tree Group’s 60 properties offer deep connections to destinations, complemented by contemporary sensibilities and signature standards. The spirit of “living well” is ingrained in each of its distinct brands – from the sanctuary of Banyan Tree, to the sense of adventure at Angsana, the spirit of fun at Cassia, the minimalism of Garrya, the comfort of Homm, and wild luxury at one of our newest brands, Banyan Tree Escape.

Highlights of the 2022 “Live Well, Travel Well” campaign will allow guests at Banyan Tree Samui to:

  1. Rediscover the healing power of travel at our Sanctuary for the Senses with savings of 33% on our Best Available Rate.
  2. A signature therapy that celebrates the human touch and use of only natural and native ingredients, the Royal Banyan treatment uses traditional ceramic burners to warm Banyan Herbal Pouches filled with lemongrass, cloves and coriander to apply warm sesame oil to the body. Enjoy 33% savings when you purchase a 150-minute Royal Banyan at an exclusive price of THB 7,035.
  3. Committed to inspire a lifestyle interwoven with wellness, our bath & body collection is specially created to extend that experience of comfort and stillness into your daily life. Enjoy 33% savings on all Bath & Body items available at Banyan Tree Gallery Samui.

The campaign runs between 14 September and 4 October 2022 for stays between 14 September 2022 and 30 September 2023.

Interpreting the spirit of living well and traveling well in each of its brand offerings, this inaugural multi-brand campaign marks the beginning of the Group’s emphasis into driving wellbeing through all its offerings, to both associates and customers, as well as embedding sustainability through its StayforGood program.

About Banyan Tree Group
Banyan Tree Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups centred on the purpose-driven mission of stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences.

The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences features an ecosystem of 10 global brands, including the award-winning Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia, Dhawa and Laguna, and the highly anticipated new brands of Homm, Garrya, Folio, and two new Banyan Tree brand extensions – Escape and Veya.

Established in 2008, with the goal of advancing people development and management excellence, Banyan Tree Management Academy has nurtured over 8,000 associates across 23 countries. The Group is recognised for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation. Operating 59 hotels in 17 countries, it has 47 new properties in the pipeline.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

AMAALA Saudi Arabia’s Ultra-Luxury Tourism Destination Outlines Impressive Progress of Development

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AMAALA Saudi Arabia's Ultra-Luxury Tourism Destination Outlines Impressive Progress of Development - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Red Sea Development Company, the developer behind ultra-luxury tourism destination AMAALA, has announced tangible progress across the development, with over 300 contracts signed to date, worth in excess of SAR 6.62 billion ($1.7bn).

• Discover Saudi Arabia with the comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

More than 98 percent of the total contract value has been awarded to Saudi firms, highlighting the organizations commitment to strengthening the local economy. These include agreements for the design and build of state-of-the-art accommodation and facilities at the destination for future employees. An additional 6.1 billion riyals of contracts is currently out to tender, across 54 proposals.

“Surpassing 300 contract awards underscores the scale of this project and the significant progress being made as we press ahead with activity on the ground to bring our destination to life. At AMAALA, we are working to create a sustainable, purpose- and meaning-driven destination for the discerning traveler, and remain closely aligned with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, as we develop one of the top global tourism destinations of the future. I am delighted to be able to showcase the results achieved by our brilliant team and partners,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of TRSDC.

Spanning over 4,155 square kilometers of pristine terrain and set within the Prince Mohammad bin Salman Natural Reserve, the first phase of AMAALA is focused on the Triple Bay masterplan. Eight hotels and upwards of 1,200 hotel keys are set for completion in 2024.

Work is well underway on-site to progress the enabling infrastructure and groundwork required to develop the destination, with more than 2,400 staff already on site and 9.9 million manhours logged to date. This includes the successful completion of 11 km of roads ahead of schedule to better connect the site. The entrance for Triple Bay is under construction and expected to be completed by October 2022.

The first section of the Construction Village, a home to 5,000 construction workers, is now operational. An additional two sections are in progress to provide accommodation for a further 10,000 workers. Secondary infrastructure works are also in progress for the development of the first phase of AMAALA’s world-class accommodation at the Employee Village in Triple Bay, set to accommodate nearly 20,000 employees who will eventually operate the destination.

Construction on the destination’s transport links has also commenced, with the airside infrastructure works for the destination’s new airport progressing on schedule. The fast-track contract for the works was awarded to Rawabi BUTEC in 2020 and includes the development of the airport’s 3,150m runway, taxiways and aprons, alongside additional infrastructure.

Rawabi BUTEC Chairman, Abdulaziz AlTurki, said: “This project is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, and it is an honor for Rawabi BUTEC to contribute to such a unique destination. We look forward to applying our sustainable design and construction know-how to ensure the safe and timely achievement of delivering the new airport, while preserving the exceptional surrounding environment.”

In addition to key infrastructure construction, AMAALA is breaking ground across its tourism offering. Bulk earthwork is in progress, with nearly 50 percent of the total fill quantity completed to date in key super plots. This includes the AMAALA Yacht Club, the Red Sea Marine Life Institute, The Marina and the Wellness Core, as well as three of the first hotels.

In line with TRSDC’s broader commitment to responsible development across its expanding portfolio, AMAALA aims to operate with a zero-carbon footprint. Like The Red Sea, the destination will be powered by renewable energy with no connection to the national grid and send zero waste to landfill.

“From the rich natural capital that surrounds our site to the local communities, AMAALA’s masterplans are deeply grounded in maximizing positive environmental, economic, and cultural impacts. As we transform our regenerative commitments into concrete actions, the destination will undoubtedly be an important steppingstone to redefining tourism in the region and beyond,” Mr. Pagano added.

AMAALA is a core component of the Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the economy by enabling rapid growth in the tourism sector. Once complete in 2027, it will offer approximately 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels as well as high-end retail establishments, fine dining, wellness, and recreational facilities.

The project is expected to create upwards of 50,000 new direct, indirect, and induced jobs for Saudis, as well as contribute upwards of 11 billion riyals to the country’s GDP once fully operational.

“Our progress across infrastructure, groundworks, and key assets is testament to our unwavering ambition to champion tourism as a powerful force for good, remaining closely aligned with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and Saudi Green Initiative. We are trailblazing regeneration at an unprecedented scale to create better conditions of life across the destination ethos, while catering to global demand for inclusive, non-extractive, and equitable experiences,” concluded Mr. Pagano.

About The Red Sea Development Company
The Red Sea Development Company is a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. TRSDC was established to drive the development of The Red Sea Project, a luxury, regenerative tourism destination that will set new standards in sustainable development and position Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map.

The project is being developed over 28,000 km2 of pristine lands and waters along Saudi Arabia’s west coast and includes a vast archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands. The destination also features sweeping desert dunes, mountain canyons, dormant volcanoes, and ancient cultural and heritage sites. It is designed to include hotels, residential properties, leisure, commercial and entertainment amenities, as well as supporting infrastructure that emphasizes renewable energy and water conservation and re-use, as well as a circular waste management system to achieve zero waste to landfill.

Activity for the first phase of development is well underway and is on track to be completed by the end of 2023. The project has surpassed significant milestones, with over 1000 contracts signed to date, worth in excess SAR 25 bn
($6.6bn).

The 100-hectare Landscape Nursery, which will provide more than 25 million plants for The Red Sea Project and AMAALA, is now fully operational. There are more than 20,000 workers currently on-site and 90km of new roads are now complete. The Construction Village and the Waste Management Centre are both fully operational and development is progressing well at the Coastal Village, which will be home to around 14,000 people who will eventually work at the destination.

• Discover Saudi Arabia with the comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

About AMAALA
Set in the Prince Mohammad bin Salman Natural Reserve along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast and spanning 4,155 sq. km, the year-round destination features a pristine landscape and diverse natural ecosystems, coupled with a unique and intriguing heritage and local culture.

Designed to evolve and elevate the very best in travel, AMAALA is an ultra-luxury destination and the first global integrated family wellness destination, set to curate transformative personal journeys inspired by arts, wellness, and the purity of the Red Sea. State-of-the-art facilities and an attractive year-long events calendar will ensure AMAALA is a distinctive wellness destination worldwide.

Phase One of Triple Bay is well underway and set to be complete in 2024. It will consist of eight resorts offering upwards of 1,300 hotel keys. Over 300 contracts have been awarded to date worth in excess of 6.6 billion riyals.

Once complete, AMAALA will be home to more than 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels, and approximately 900 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes, alongside high-end retail establishments, fine dining, wellness, and recreational facilities.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of AMAALA, which will be powered by 100% renewable energy for which the resulting saving in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere is equivalent to nearly half a million tons each year. The destination will operate with a zero-carbon footprint once fully operational. A Public Investment Fund company and a key contributor to Vision 2030, AMAALA will establish new standards in luxury and wellness.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tom Aikens to Launch Restaurant in the Edition Hotel Toranomon Tokyo

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Tom Aikens to Launch Restaurant in the Edition Hotel Toranomon Tokyo - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXTokyo, Japan, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / On the 1st October, Tom Aikens will open The Jade Room + Garden Terrace at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon. This new offering for The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon is a testament to the innovative, world-renowned dining experiences the EDITION brand is known for.

Set on the 31st floor adjacent to the lobby, The Jade Room + Garden Terrace is the hotel’s signature restaurant, offering fresh and innovative food to be appreciated by locals and travelers alike. Celebrating the versatility and expressiveness ingrained in Japanese culture and cuisine, Tom Aikens’ menu pushes these boundaries further to deliver a fusion of contemporary Japanese and Western influenced dishes prepared using diverse yet refined cooking techniques, all enjoyed against an astonishing backdrop of the Tokyo Tower and city skyline.

“I am thrilled to be opening my first venture in Japan this October, a country whose cuisine and traditions I greatly admire. I have designed two different menus for the indoor Jade Room and outdoor Garden Terrace that center on seasonality, inspired by mother nature. The result is an experimental fusion of Japanese and Western dishes that I can’t wait to share with the city.” – Chef Tom Aikens

Jade Room
Seated within the serene surroundings of the restaurant, guests can enjoy dishes created by Tom Aikens – both a la carte and as part of a 4 or 6-course tasting menu – with seasonally changing plates including:

Squid consommé, yuzu, chicken, confit lemon
Fire roasted charred celeriac carpaccio, truffle
Mackerel, dashi, sesame, daikon, furikake
Piglet belly, squid, pineapple, and vanilla

The restaurant offers an exciting menu of cocktails and wines that champions new tastes and unexpected flavors. The seasonal cocktail menu focuses on collaborations with local botanical distilleries, to create bottled cocktails unique to The Jade Room + Garden Terrace.

Upon entering The Jade Room + Garden Terrace, guests will be welcomed through an entrance graced with photography by Masao Yamamoto and met with a lively and atmospheric space. The venue features flooring and walls of rich walnut paneling, circular banquettes, elegant counter seating with jewel green stools and custom commissioned paintings by artist John Jackson. The space is finished with six distinguished bamboo oak trees and 200 potted plants, transporting diners into an enchanted garden within the metropolis of the Toranomon district.

The Jade Room also features two private dining rooms, seating 8 and 14 respectively, where guests can enjoy tailored and carefully curated menus for their taste and predilection. Each room enveloped in hand crafted Japanese Washi paper, the rooms give a foremost panoramic view of the city center through layers of shimmering sheer drapery and the lush greenery of the exterior terrace.

Garden Terrace
Just a step out of The Jade Room, is Garden Terrace, sitting 460ft above ground overlooking the city. Open throughout the summer season, Garden Terrace has seasonally changing greenery, creating a serene and inviting space where guests are sheltered from the busy pace of city life. Garden Terrace offers a menu of cocktails, alongside sharing small plates that include:

Lobster roll, sudachi spiced mayo, nori, fried cabbage
House made ricotta, pickled beets, schezwan cucumber
Scallops marinated with passionfruit and vanilla
Hand-chopped beef tartare, maple egg yolk, onion crumble

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Agritourism Sector Reconvened for New Beginning

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Global Agritourism Sector Reconvened for New Beginning - TRAVELINDEXBurlington, Vermont, United States, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Workshop on Agritourism wrapped up with the objectives well attained. Participants surpassed expectations garnishing invaluable knowledge, ideas, and friendships, while a global agritourism community solidified, and the new directions for many delegates identified.

Following the first World Agritourism Congress in Bolzano, Italy in 2018, this second edition was held in partnership between Eurac Research* and the University of Vermont Extension in Burlington, Vermont, the U.S. It was a milestone for the agritourism sector, in the context of the historic timing – when outdoor activities have gained popularity amid the pandemic; when the global tourism industry is fighting to recover; and when the United Nations SDGs are calling for urgent action. At a crucial time, agritourism, a relatively quiet sector, is now unleashing its mammoth potential to join forces in combating the aggregated challenges.

Agriculture is the world’s largest business. Evolved from agriculture, agritourism in turn braces the agricultural sector. Together, agriculture and agritourism directly impact six of the 17 United Nations SDG goals: Decent Work and Economy Growth (Goal 8), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), Responsible Consumption and Production (12), Life below Water (14), Life on Land (15) and Partnership to Achieve the Goal (17).

The hybrid Burlington conference attracted more than 500 participants from 57 countries, and over 350 from 35 countries attended in person. 26 international sponsors supported the mission. It represented agritourism players well, including farmers, tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, educators/researchers, NGOs, government agencies, etc. A large young researcher contingent with different nationalities presented their impressive research findings, indicating the promising future for this agritourism element.

The conference showcased over 150 speakers, interactive workshops, and poster presentations. Topics covered included agritourism entrepreneurship, marketing insights, research discoveries, sustainability/diversity/inclusivity issues, and many more. The conference offered various farm-based study tours. The conference meals featured Vermont fare with maple pork sausage, Vermont cheddar cheese, apple cider, etc., all presented by proud Vermont farmers and farm-to-table restaurants. The local tourism promotional organization, Hello Burlington, provided enthusiastic support to the event and needed delegates.

Equally fruitful was the networking in and off the sessions. Foodies, strategic thinkers, those super-jazzed for farm-stay, tour operators scouting for country-bound products, and people of all interests actively mingled on the conference App or in other forms.

Vermont’s agricultural landscape served as a beautiful backdrop for the conference. State officials joined to extend their support. “The delegates from more than 50 countries set the stage for more growth both in our region and other parts of the world. From Vermont we are committed to the growth of agritourism with the support of the government agencies,” said Anson Tebbetts, Secretary of Agriculture, Food & Markets of Vermont, while addressing the audience. Heather Pelham, Commissioner, Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing also spoke. “Agritourism experiences can offer a chance for regeneration on many levels for our guests as well as for our communities and the land around us. We have an economic interest in working together,” said Pelham. Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy shared an encouraging message, and Senator Bernie Sanders wrote an appreciation letter, both delivered by their spokesmen.

The closing event organically evolved into a heartfelt sharing session. Attendees signed a pledge to strengthen the sector’s collaboration. Maple syrup, chocolates, cheese, and more Vermont gifts were happily shared. Some 20 delegates shared their thoughts on stage, in tears or with a song, along with sleepless virtual attendees globally. Their spoken words and passion amplified who they were – and who they are: They are visionaries, action-takers, change makers, and survivors. Agritourism will continue with momentum to drive concrete results, because of these leaders and doers.

“I went into the conference with high expectations — and it was even better than I could have possibly imagined,” elated conference chair Lisa Chase, Professor and Director of the Vermont Tourism Research Center at the University of Vermont Extension. “We spent three days together sharing and learning about agritourism and immersed in farm experiences in Vermont. A delegate from Africa said this was life-changing and would have a profound impact on his community back home. I know he represents many of the participants who traveled to Burlington, Vermont, from far and near,” says Chase.

Post-conference work has already begun. Based on a conference survey, the international network will develop supporting programming accordingly. The process will repeat in six months, to enable the network to stay the course and maintain focus/relevance. The next agritourism congress will be held in Bolzano in 2024. Watch it – the powerful action word: Agritourism.

* Eurac Research of Italy is a private entity of 30 years with 600 staff members and 48 million euros in budget.

Haybina Hao reporting for Travelindex on travel, agritourism, adventure travel, destinations, travel industry issues, etc.

Haybina is an international travel industry journalist and reports in both Chinese and English. Linkedin

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

From Kobe to Bangkok at La Scala David Tamburini and Eugenio Cannoni

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From Kobe to Bangkok at La Scala David Tamburini and Eugenio Cannoni - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, September 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / La Scala Restaurant at The Sukhothai Bangkok, a triumph of innovative interior design paired with inspired Italian cuisine, led by Eugenio Cannoni an Italian Chef extended an invitation to a former Italian chef David Tamburini for an exclusive four hands collaboration event.

Michelin-starred and former Chef de Cuisine of La Scala, David Tamburini will be in Bangkok from Kobe, Japan, for a highly anticipated four-hands collaboration with La Scala’s Chef de Cuisine Eugenio Cannoni with a carefully crafted limited-time-only menu from Friday 30 September 2022 to Sunday 2 October 2022.

Friday 30 September 2022 (Dinner only)
Saturday 1 October 2022 (Lunch and Dinner)
Sunday 2 October 2022 (Lunch and Dinner)

Set Lunch (4 Courses)
Food Only, THB 3,100++ Per Person
Wine Pairing, THB 1,900++ Per Person
Set Dinner (6 Courses)
Food Only, THB 4,300++ Per Person
Wine Pairing, THB 2,200++ Per Person

For reservations, please call 02 344 8888 or email to promotions@sukhothai.com

About La Scala
La Scala, an award-winning Italian restaurant is highly coveted for classic and progressive Italian cuisine combined with fine Italian and European wines. Its beautiful poolside setting is a bold statement in contemporary décor subtly infused with The Sukhothai’s cultural heritage, and showcases an open kitchen, private room and a bar with a wine cellar.

• Discover La Scala at the Bangkok’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants at Top25Restaurants.com

About Eugenio
Eugenio Cannoni is from the northern Italian region of Piedmont. His career began in the family restaurant, but with a strong desire to enhance his knowledge he enrolled at one of Italy’s best cooking schools, Alma di Gualtiero Marchesi. From there begun a path of research and enrichment by touring different kitchens in Europe and around the world, also dedicating himself to collaborations and as a consultant on various TV shows in Italy and abroad. His latest appointment was Chef De Cuisine at Castello di Casalborgone in Turin.

• Learn more about Chef Eugenio Cannoni at Chef’s Talk by TOP25Restaurants.com

About David Tamburini
David Tamburini is a twice-awarded Michelin star chef, who is currently the Chef de Cuisine at ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe Hotel’s Italian restaurant Level 36. Chef David spent a few years in Hong Kong as the Executive Chef at Giando Italian Restaurant & Bar, before moving to Bangkok as Chef de Cuisine at The Sukhothai Bangkok’s award-winning Italian restaurant. Originally from Tuscany but trained in Sicily, David studied the different components and traditional recipes of southern Italy and expressed his desire to give them a more contemporary flavour, whilst developing a personal cooking style based upon the respective ingredients, techniques and his own renowned creations.

• Learn more about Chef David Tamburini at Chef’s Talk by TOP25Restaurants.com

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Noku Hotels Open Fourth Property in Phuket

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Noku Hotels Open Fourth Property in Phuket - VISITPHUKET.org - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, September 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Noku Hotels announced the opening of Noku Phuket. It is the fourth Noku hotel after Noku Kyoto, Noku Osaka and Noku Maldives. A 45 minutes journey from Phuket International Airport takes you to the newly built resort that is a hidden gem nestled on the hilltop away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by natural flora, the resort features amazing views of the Chalong Bay.

• Discover Phuket and Amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – 2023 at VisitThailand.net

Designed around a reflective swimming pool, our Wellness centre features individual spa pavilions with curated massages, an Infra-red room and steam saunas. Other wellness facilities include a fully equipped gym and a yoga room. There are a total of 91 spacious Villas and Lofts furnished in soft earthy tones that marries Thai modern architecture with the hotel’s hillside lush greenery.

Each roomy Loft features a large bathroom and balcony that overlook the surrounding forested hills. The spacious Hill Villas provide wonderful sea views over Chalong Bay, and each stand-alone Tree Villa is a private sanctuary nestled amidst quiet green landscape. Unwind in your private pool in both the Hill and Tree Villas or have a relaxing soak in the sunken bath.

For dining, EMBRACE Restaurant offers guests the opportunity to enjoy mouth-watering Thai dishes using locally sourced ingredients. After a long day of exploring the sights and sounds of Phuket at near-by attractions, guests can wind down and sip cocktails at The Terrace bar while enjoying the panoramic view of Chalong Bay.

Noku Phuket has been lauded with the Green Mark Gold award recently from the Building Authority of Singapore for its green design and sustainable efforts.

The hotel provides complimentary shuttle services to nearby beaches, the Phuket Old Town and shopping malls.

Guests can enjoy Thai dishes sourced from local ingredients at EMBRACE Restaurant. They can also relax with a cocktail at The Terrace bar while enjoying the panoramic view of Chalong Bay.

• Discover Phuket and Amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – 2023 at VisitThailand.net

While their Wellness Centre, designed around a reflective swimming pool, features individual spa pavilions offering curated massages, an Infra-red room, and steam saunas. Other wellness facilities include a fully equipped gym and a yoga room.

The hotel provides free shuttle services to nearby beaches, the Phuket Old Town and shopping malls.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aurora Anguilla Offers Private Charter Service

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Aurora Anguilla Offers Private Charter Service - EXEJET.com - TRAVELINDEXRendez-Vous Bay, Anguilla / SEPTEMBER 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Aurora Anguilla Resort introduced the Aurora Anguilla Private Charter Service, an exclusive way to pursue paradise with ease and enhance the travel experience for the guests. Open year round, the Aurora Anguilla Private Charter Service will operate from three origin cities: HPN – White Planes – Westchester, NY, IAD – Dulles International – Washington, DC, FLL – Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport – Fort Lauderdale, FL

The Fly Direct package includes the charter flight and luxurious Aurora Anguilla accommodations. Guests receive a confirmation email with room package and the Fly Direct concierge.

To make the service happen, the hotel has acquired a fleet of private jets. The aircraft are Embraer 170s, mid-size jets that can carry up to 70 passengers, customized with the hotel’s logo displayed prominently on the side. Each flight will be serviced with a full meal and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options provided by flight attendants.

The new service is a part of the property’s multi-million dollar renovation unveiled in July. The recent revamp includes a slew of new amenities and upgrades to the property, including the revival of the resort’s former Japanese restaurant Tokyo Bay and the arrival of a new 27,000-square-foot onsite Sorona spa facility.

Aurora Anguilla is a Vibrant Oceanfront Resort on the Iconic Island of Anguilla. Set on a sandy beach overlooking the Anguilla channel with views of nearby St. Martin, Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is a Caribbean paradise composed of crystal-clear waters, bright and airy accommodations, and welcoming island hospitality.

At Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club, a Caribbean playground awaits with every amenity and activity that goes along with one of the best resorts in the Lesser Antilles. Enjoy delicious local food, outstanding water sports, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere so memorable that check-out will seem but a distant dream.

As the only golf courses on the entire island, Aurora International Golf Club provides an intimate, extraordinary escape from sunrise to sunset. The Greg Norman newly re- imagined 18-Hole Championship Course offers breathtaking views and challenging, dramatic holes. Players are greeted by a spectacular view of St. Maarten and the Caribbean Sea at the tee box of the 384-yard starting hole.

The appeal continues with holes 2 and 10 sharing a 16,000-square-foot green that rests along Rendezvous Bay and the Anguilla Channel. Our 17th hole provides a wonderful view through our salt pond valley overlooking the peninsula green, then up the 12th and 18th holes to our signature clubhouse. As one of the most challenging finishing holes in the Caribbean, the 18th hole starts with a demanding tee shot over the salt pond, then continues to ascend forty feet up to a narrow green guarded by three large bunkers.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor to Open its First Dual-Branded Hotel in Japan

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Accor to Open its First Dual-Branded Hotel in Japan - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXOsaka, Japan, September 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The locally-inspired property offers guests a new touch of comfort in the heart of Osaka. Accor, the region’s largest international hospitality company, is introducing its first dual branded hotel to Japan’s vibrant city of Osaka. The 288-key Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba will open its doors on 1st December 2022 in the city’s entertainment and shopping district.

Accor has teamed up with Japanese real estate company Tokyu Resorts & Stays Co., Ltd. to offer a unique property that plays to the strengths of both groups; Accor with its global reach and international loyalty program ALL – Accor Live Limitless, and Tokyu Stays’ domestic brand recognition and network, as well as its exceptional facilities for long-stay guests.

The hotel is ideally positioned within a 4-minute walk from Namba station which offers a direct train line to Kansai International Airport, a gateway for international travellers, as well as easy access to local landmarks such as Shinsaibashi shopping district. “America Town” is also located nearby, a destination for visitors looking to discover Osaka’s youth culture and trends.

Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea said, “We are thrilled to introduce Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba, a unique and significant addition to our midscale brand portfolio in Japan. This property offers the perfect setting for local and international visitors to explore the local scene whether they are in town for business or leisure, and enjoy the warm hospitality that is unique to this region.”

The hotel’s design focuses on the distinctive culture, history and values that the city of Osaka has been built on such as chic dark interiors reminiscent of firewood. The Nishi Shinsaibashi area housed many warehouses for firewood wholesalers during the Edo period which were later turned into galleries, boutiques and a gathering spot for the local artists and creatives. The 288 contemporary rooms of Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba are ideal for short-stay and long-stay guests, with a portion of guestrooms offering washer-dryers and kitchenettes, one of the signature features of Tokyu Stay properties. The Duplex Suite and Premium Twin Rooms offer panoramic views of the cityscape of Osaka and Namba, and all guestrooms are equipped with 50-inch TVs, rain showers and high speed Wifi.

Authentic Italian cuisine at CENTRE M, an all-day dining restaurant specializing in fresh pastas, provides guests with a place where they can escape from the hustle and bustle of the Minami area to fully immerse themselves in a pleasant moment of dining. The breakfast buffet changes daily and features over 40 different items made with local products including a vibrant and healthy power salad and freshly baked pastries crafted in the open kitchen. The afternoon tea menu will highlight seasonal fruits as well as freshly baked financiers that can also be purchased as souvenirs.

“Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba is Tokyu Stay’s first dual-brand hotel that combines the comfort expected for medium to long-term stays with the sophisticated design of the Mercure brand. Osaka Namba and Shinsaibashi area where this hotel is located, are easily accessible by bus from Kansai International Airport, and are popular areas for dining and shopping for overseas guests, especially those from Asian countries. It will continue to attract attention as a sightseeing base for Kansai in the future. With the theme of ‘a hotel that travels through everyday life’, Tokyu Stay, provides an extension of everyday life within reach and walking range. We anticipate that guests will discover a new charm of Osaka Namba at this sophisticated dual-branded hotel,” said Toshihiro Awatsuji, President & CEO of Tokyu Resorts & Stays, Co., Ltd.

Guests can benefit from Accor’s loyalty program ALL – Accor Live Limitless, a daily lifestyle companion. ALL harnesses and enhances the brands, services and partnerships offered within Accor’s ecosystem, delivering meaningful experiences and rewards to its most engaged customers while enabling them to work live, and play, far beyond their stay, at home and around the world.

About Mercure
Mercure is a rare midscale brand that combines the strength of an international network with genuine and local hospitality experiences. The brand’s unwavering commitment to quality ensures a consistent and reliable standard of service at every Mercure around the world, while the design of each hotel reflects the distinct character and culture of its location. Going beyond the ordinary for business and leisure travelers, Mercure team members are known for their passion, enthusiasm and warmth, sharing their knowledge of the local scene, providing insider tips and entertaining guests with tales of history and local folklore. Mercure hotels are conveniently located in city centers, by the sea or in the mountains, with more than 810 hotels in 60+ countries. Mercure is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

About Tokyu Resorts & Stays Co., Ltd
Tokyu Resorts & Stays is a comprehensive management company that operates more than 100 facilities in Japan and provides management support such as operation consignment, management contract, consulting contract, etc. Tokyu Stays’ concept is “A hotel where you can stay like yourself.” From business to sightseeing as well as a temporary residence, Tokyu Stays welcomes domestic and international travelers with rooms equipped with laundry facilities, microwave ovens and kitchenettes to provide a comfortable space for short and long-stay guests.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FOUR SEASONS EYES EGYPT EXPANSION

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Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced plans for an extensive portfolio expansion in Egypt with the addition of new hotels, residential offerings, and significant property enhancements.

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Cairo Capital at Madinaty and Four Seasons Hotel Luxor will be introduced in Egypt through the company’s upcoming phase of strategic growth, further building upon the latest multi-million-dollar property enhancements at Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Sharm El Sheikh, which has doubled the offerings of the existing property with new accommodations, dining outlets, leisure activities, and more.

“Egypt is an important destination in Four Seasons history, as it marked our brand’s entry into the Middle East 22 years ago. Our continued expansion illustrates our ongoing commitment to the region, and all that it has to offer for luxury travellers and homeowners,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management.

Luxor

Hotel Luxor

Perched on the Nile River in the south of Egypt, in one of the country’s most storied destinations Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is set to open in 2025 and will include 200 guest rooms and suites, each with views of the Nile River, the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. The Hotel will be located just south of the highly acclaimed Luxor Temple, which dates back to 1400 BC.

Amenities will include several restaurant and bar outlets, a tranquil spa, fitness facility, multiple pools, luxury retail, a Kids For All Seasons program and a young adults centre. For those visiting for business or to host a special event, the property will feature expansive meeting and event spaces totalling 1,300 sq. m.

New Cairo Capital at Madinaty

Located in the heart of the capital’s new evolution, New Cairo Capital is a global destination that stands entirely on its own. Anticipated to open in 2025 and set within the extraordinary Madinaty development on 185 hectares of verdant parkland, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Cairo Capital at Madinaty will be a ideal destination for those who wish to visit the ancient metropolis of Cairo and effortlessly explore the modern extension of the iconic capital city.

Each with world-class amenities and surrounded by lush gardens, the hotel will feature 346 rooms and suites, while the Private Residences will be comprised of 107 villas and 80 luxury residences.

The villas will range from 721 to 1,847 sq. m. with six configurations featuring a contemporary design, floor-to-ceiling windows, rooftop gardens, limestone finishings and private pools, all reminiscent of majestic Egyptian palaces, while luxury residences will range from 221 to 670 sq. m. with five configurations.

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Cairo Capital at Madinaty will also offer an enhanced culinary experience for guests and residents alike. Gourmet restaurant and bar options will include a waterfront restaurant at the centre of the property with several private dining, al fresco, international and Egyptian-inspired outlets sprinkled throughout the expansive property.

The Hotel and Private Residences will also feature a standalone spa and fitness facility. Across several private treatment rooms, an extensive array of tennis and multi-sport courts, guided group classes, and state-of-the-art fitness equipment, visitors will be treated to an intentional space that has been designed for the art of wellbeing.

Off property, the destination will offer guests, residents and their families easy access to additional gourmet restaurants, world-class golf courses, top retail outlets, and a full suite of attractions.

The property is being designed by the Pierre Yves-Rochon, who has also worked on Four Seasons properties in Paris, Megève, Bahrain Bay, Doha, Florence, and more.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh

Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Sharm El Sheikh has now doubled in size following an extensive enhancement project, with new accommodations, restaurants, recreational facilities and meeting spaces for travellers who seek a unique blend of mountains, desert and sea.

The expansion project includes the addition of 69 Private Residences to the existing collection of 77 plus expanded amenities that now includes 12 culinary concepts, tennis courts, golf course, fitness facilities, access to one of the world’s most renowned dive sites, and more.

Egypt

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Cairo Capital at Madinaty and Four Seasons Hotel Luxor will join the brand’s portfolio in Egypt, which includes Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano, and Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News