Global Travel News

The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Jordan Bringing Modern Design and Unparalleled Experiences to Amman

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The Ritz-Carlton, Amman Room
The Ritz-Carlton, Amman Room

The Ritz-Carlton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman, ushering in a new standard of refined hospitality in the heart of Jordan’s vibrant capital. Rising elegantly above the West Amman skyline, and centrally situated on the prestigious Fifth Circle, The Ritz-Carlton, Amman welcomes guests to enjoy thoughtfully tailored experiences that capture the spirit of Jordan’s beauty and hospitality.

“We are thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Amman, embodying our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and creating meaningful memories in the world’s most exciting markets,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. “From exquisite culinary craftmanship to treasured family moments, The Ritz-Carlton, Amman will embrace guests with its legendary service, and offer a unique lens on this charming capital city.”

Soaring 20-stories high, The Ritz-Carlton, Amman features 228 guest rooms – the most spacious of any hotel accommodations in Jordan – including 34 opulent suites, spread across seven different categories. All guestrooms and suites have been intricately designed and elegantly furnished, with a sophisticated ambiance felt throughout the property.

Led by Wimberly Interiors London, the hotel’s design is inspired by the culture and history of Jordan, which is reflected in the hotel’s bold interior architecture, tailored lighting, Art Deco touches and contemporary artistry. Artistic elements within the hotel draw inspiration from the landscape of the Kingdom, from natural rifts of the sea and saturated colors of the earth to the deep crevices of caves and mountains. The breathtaking structures of Petra are reflected in a series of vignettes, while Roman and Nabatean architectural features are given modern reinterpretations throughout the hotel. The floor finishes in the guest corridors pay homage to Jordan’s desert landscape, and the guestrooms take inspiration from the destination’s natural elements, sand and sea.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amman offers an expansive array of distinctive dining options. Rising over the Amman skyline on the hotel’s 20th floor is the property’s signature restaurant, Roberto’s. Already a much-loved fixture on Dubai’s culinary scene, the arrival of Roberto’s will redefine the concept of authentic Italian fine dining in Jordan, with the venue set to become one of the capital’s most exciting new lifestyle hotspots for residents and visitors alike.

Along with the lively, elevated atmosphere at Roberto’s, guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman can indulge at Ambros, the property’s relaxed dining option in the lobby serving unique seasonal produce and reimagined classics. Located in the hotel lobby, Iris is a stylish tea lounge and pâtisserie featuring a selection of signature eclairs, and high tea experiences. At Sarab Garden, visitors can enjoy a sophisticated shisha lounge featuring upscale regional cuisine. For cigar connoisseurs, The Founders Room is a timeless cigar and whiskey lounge delivering a highly exclusive atmosphere and an elevated menu offering sophisticated bites. Opening this summer, Soleil will appeal to guests looking for healthy dining with its focus on vegetarian dishes and a distinctive coffee roastery. Legends, a distinctive sports lounge with American-style culinary fare, is set to open later this year.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amman is home to a wide array of facilities for corporate and leisure guests, including a 1,050 square-meter Grand Ballroom, five meeting rooms, one boardroom, and a luxurious Club Lounge, all delivered with unparalleled service and genuine care. The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a full-service spa and wellness center offering ESPA products, indoor and outdoor temperature-controlled pools, six treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge and the largest jacuzzi in Amman.

“The opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman marks an incredible milestone for the entire Kingdom,” said Tareq Derbas, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Amman. “The property delivers an exceptional standard of luxury and refinement – one that redefines elegance and hospitality in Jordan and the wider region. We are thrilled to unveil this stunning property and look forward to welcoming guests with a level of care and passion that will be sure to delight and exceed expectations.”

For more information, or to book your stay, please visit the hotel’s website here.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. currently operates more than 110 hotels in 34 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

Press Contact:

Georgie Noble
Director, Consumer PR, EMEA
Georgie.Noble@Marriott.com

Shahd Bargouthy
Senior Manager, Consumer PR, MEA
shahd.bargouthy@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Ultra-Luxury Rosewood Red Sea Set to Open in Saudi Arabia

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Ultra-Luxury Rosewood Red Sea Set to Open in Saudi Arabia - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com -TRAVELINDEXShura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, June 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Rosewood Red Sea has been appointed by The Red Sea Development Company to manage Rosewood Red Sea, opening as part of phase one of the multi-complex The Red Sea development. Located along Saudi Arabia’s west coast on Shura Island, the new Rosewood® hotel will be part of The Red Sea destination, which is comprised of a stunning marina offering a yacht club, commercial retail and dining options, as well as an 18-hole championship golf course. This new development is poised to be one of Saudi Arabia’s top cultural and lifestyle destinations, appealing to international visitors and local citizens through a mix of leisure elements.

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

“It is our great pleasure to announce our expansion in the Middle East, adding Rosewood Red Sea to Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning cultural movement,” said Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “Rosewood’s presence in The Red Sea destination will mark a transformational time for the brand as the project looks to set new standards in  and support Saudi Arabia emerge as a top global tourism destination.”

“We are delighted to partner with Rosewood to establish its ultra-luxury brand on our hub island, Shura, at The Red Sea destination,” said John Pagano, CEO at The Red Sea Development Company. “Rosewood’s philosophy to reflect the local culture and spirit of a destination in its offering will tempt visitors to explore the rich heritage and unsurpassed natural beauty of this undiscovered, unique region. Rosewood Red Sea is set to meet the increasing demand for exclusive, personalized experiences that dovetail with the natural environment, and we look forward to welcoming guests to the resort.”

Rosewood Red Sea will boast 149 guest rooms and suites. Elevated food and beverage offerings will include three restaurants, two lounges, a signature Manor Club and a central hub featuring authentic eateries. Additional recreational spaces will include event pavilions and Asaya™, Rosewood’s integrative well-being concept consisting of seven treatment rooms, a gym, two movement studios and a yoga pavilion.

Encompassing 22 islands and five inland sites by the time it completes in 2030, The Red Sea destination will be home to a luxury and upper-upscale segment composed of mono-island resorts, beach resorts, centralized island-hubs, and inland resorts in the desert and mountains. The destination is located 550 km north of Jeddah. For travellers near and far, the new Red Sea International Airport will provide access and airlift to the destination. It is set to welcome its first flight by the end of 2022.

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages a global collection of 29 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 17 countries. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand’s A Sense of Place™ philosophy to reflect the individual location’s history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world’s most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong and Rosewood São Paulo. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offerings provide a distinct opportunity for the ownership or rental of properties co-located with a Rosewood hotel or resort and of standalone for-sale residences. Rosewood Residences are defined by the brand’s commitment to Enriched Living through thoughtful details and experiences that enhance the quality of life while evoking a sense of discovery and inspiration.

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

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 800 contracts signed to date, worth in excess of SAR 20 bn ($5.33bn).  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 15,000 workers currently on-site and 80km 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.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

South Africa to Host Concours Mondial du Sauvignon

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South Africa to Host Concours Mondial du Sauvignon - TOP25Vineyards.com - TRAVELINDEXFranschhoek, Cape Winelands, South Africa, June 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / For the first time in the 14-year history of the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon, South Africa will be the host country of this prestigious competition dedicated to world-class Sauvignon Blanc, making it the first country outside of Europe to host this competition.

• Discover South Africa’s and the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com.

The 2023 Concours Mondial du Sauvignon will take place from Monday 13 March to Friday 17 March in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands. The competition is hosted by the cultivar association Sauvignon Blanc South Africa in partnership with local, as well as international partners.

Over the past decade the competition has taken place in winegrowing regions all over Europe including Bordeaux, Touraine, Styria, Rueda, Friuli Venezia Giulia, and Torres Vedras. Sauvignon Blanc has in recent years become an extremely popular varietal in the international marketplace.

“Sauvignon Blanc is South Africa’s top selling cultivar and our most exported varietal,” says Sauvignon Blanc SA Chairman, RJ Botha. “South African Sauvignon Blanc is a unique asset which help build and maintain a strong brand reputation for the country. It makes perfect sense to host this competition, the largest and most significant international competition entirely dedicated to Sauvignon Blanc, in the Cape Winelands. To be the first host ever outside of Europe is an amazing accomplishment for our country and our wine industry.”

“We are excited to work closely with our platinum partners: WESGRO, Concours Mondial du Bruxelles and Vinventions, as well as our bronze partners: Boutes South Africa, Tonnellerie Sylvain and Enartis to bring together hand-picked specialists from around the world to taste and evaluate some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc wines.”

“The Concours Mondial du Sauvignon is more than just a competition between producers and appellations. It is aimed at fostering dialogue and creating a meeting point for industry specialists. In 2022, a total of 1 120 entries from 23 producer countries were evaluated by over 70 judges representing 20 nationalities, guaranteeing the outstanding diversity that sets the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon apart from other wine competitions.”

• Discover South Africa’s and the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com.

“We look forward to hosting these international members of the wine industry, journalists, and wine writers on local soil. We are excited to introduce them to our country, our people, and our unique South African hospitality,” Botha concluded.

About the competition

The competition was launched in 2010 to promote white wines and showcase one of the world’s most popular white grape varieties. Since then, the event has become an international competition, with the number of producer countries taking part increasing year-on-year. Technical management of the tastings is handled by the organisers of the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles who boast over 20 years’ experience in organising world-class wine competitions. The Concours Mondial du Sauvignon is open to all wines made from a majority percentage (51% min.) of Sauvignon blanc and/or Sauvignon gris, irrespective of their producer, origin or category. Since 2017, a new category has allowed Sauvignon-based sparkling wines to take part.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

India’s Tourism Could Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels by End of 2022

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India's Tourism Could Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels by End of 2022 - TRAVELINDEXNew Delhi, India, June 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Travel and Tourism’s GDP expected to outpace India’s economy over the next 10 years. More than 2.4 million jobs could be created every year. Research conducted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the Indian economy could surpass pre-pandemic levels this year, with a year-on-year growth of 20.7%.

The forecast from the WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR), shows the sector’s contribution to the nation’s economy could reach almost ₹15.9 trillion (U.S. $215 billion) in 2022, 1% above 2019 levels.

Employment levels are set to grow to almost 35 million Travel & Tourism jobs, with an 8.3% growth this year.

Over the next decade, India’s Travel & Tourism’s GDP is expected to grow at an average of 7.8% annually, compared to 6.7% of the India’s overall economy, to reach almost ₹33.8 trillion (U.S. $457 billion) – representing 7.2% of the total economy.

The forecast also reveals the sector is expected to create over 24 million jobs over the next decade, averaging more than 2.4 million new jobs every year.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “After the pain suffered by India’s Travel & Tourism sector, the future looks bright with Travel & Tourism to and from India set to exceed 2019 levels.

“The outlook for the next decade is looking very positive with India accounting for one in five of all new Travel & Tourism jobs globally.”

Before the pandemic, India’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP was 7% (₹15.7 trillion, U.S. $212 billion) in 2019, falling to just 4.3% (₹9.2 trillion, U.S. $124 billion) in 2020, which represented a shocking 41.7% loss.

The sector also supported more than 40 million jobs in 2019, falling to just over 29 million in 2020, when the pandemic devastated the sector.

Following the significant decline in 2020, the global tourism body’s latest EIR report reveals that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for the country’s Travel & Tourism sector.

Last year, its contribution to GDP climbed 43.6% year on year, to reach ₹13.2 trillion (U.S $178 billion).

While the sector also saw a recovery of just under three million Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a positive rise of 10.2% to more than 32 million, this is still eight million fewer jobs than in 2019.

The sector’s contribution to the economy and employment could have been higher if it were not for the impact of the Omicron variant, which led to the recovery faltering around the world, with many countries reinstating severe travel restrictions.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Unlocks a World of Limitless Experiences with New Credit Cards

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Accor Unlocks a World of Limitless Experiences with New Credit Cards - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMDUBAI.orgDubai, United Arab Emirates, June 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / ALL- ADCB Infinite and Signature credit card holders can step into a realm of boundless privilege at more than 30 Accor hotels and resorts across the UAE, and over 4,600 properties globally

A realm of luxury is now within reach with the launch of the ALL – ADCB Credit Card in the UAE. The debut collaboration between global hospitality group, Accor, and premier commercial bank, ADCB, marks a milestone for the two entities.

The co-branded Visa credit cards are set to offer members exclusive privileges at Accor properties locally and internationally, granting them experiences with grand benefits. Abundant perks await cardholders including: room upgrades, swimming pool and beach access, dining offers, discounted room rates, golf access, airport lounge access and much more.

Accor’s global partnership with Visa brings enhanced payment experiences to users through the ALL – ADCB Credit Card. The exclusive Infinite and Signature credit cards are the gateway to an endless world of privileges and benefits, specially designed for members in the UAE to elevate their lifestyle. With an unrivalled portfolio of hotels, it allows guests to maximize the pleasure of every stay. Integrating a powerful network of properties, the ALL – ADCB Credit Cards invites guests to experience luxury with unsurpassed benefits at over 30 Accor properties in the UAE, including Raffles the Palm, Fairmont Fujairah, SLS Dubai, Rixos Dubai The Palm, and many more. The luxury portfolio of Accor in the country also includes Sofitel hotels, while premium properties include Pullman, Swissotel, Movenpick, Grand Mercure and more. Unique deluxe leisure and travel privileges with Accor partners globally also await the cardholders.

ALL- ADCB Infinite Credit Card
The ALL – ADCB Infinite Credit Card automatically entitles members to a platinum status, which allows them an instant fast track after the first eligible one night stay with Accor. A welcome bonus of up to 50,000 reward points, equal to a value of EUR € 1,000, welcomes the cardholders and grants up to three reward points for every USD 1 spent.

In-Hotel Benefits
Endless privileges can be enjoyed at participating Accor properties. Cardholders are entitled to unlimited beach, pool, and gym access, along with 25% off on dining and spa treatments at participating Accor luxury, lifestyle, and premium hotels. In addition, to celebrate the cardholders’ anniversary, one free night in any UAE luxury hotel including Fairmont, Sofitel, Rixos, and many more can be availed. For international travelers,
€50 or $ 50 equivalent to dining credit per stay, VIP guests status, room upgrade, late check-out, and complimentary WiFi, along with complimentary breakfast (at luxury hotels) are applicable worldwide at premium and luxury Accor properties.

Leisure and Travel Benefits
Jetsetters can take advantage of unlimited access to over 1,000 airport lounges across the globe with one additional guest. Cardholders are also automatically entitled to travel insurance worth USD 500,000. Local satisfaction also guarantees four complimentary airport transfers every year through Careem, unlimited buy 1, get 1 free on coffee at Caribou Coffee, and exclusive complimentary golf access at Yas Links, Arabian Ranches, and Meydan.

ALL- ADCB Signature Credit Card
The ALL – ADCB Signature Credit Card automatically entitles members to a gold status, which allows them an instant fast track after the first eligible 1 night stay with Accor. A bonus of 25,000 reward points, at a value of EUR € 500, welcomes the cardholders and grants up to two reward points for every USD 1 spent.

In-Hotel Benefits
Unlimited privileges can be enjoyed at participating Accor properties. Cardholders are entitled to 50% off on beach, pool, and gym access, and spa treatments at participating Accor luxury, lifestyle, and premium hotels. They can also dive into delectable meals at participating dining outlets at select Accor properties such as Le Jardin, Matagi, and Blüthner Hall at Raffles the Palm, Ernst Biergarten at 25Hours Hotel Dubai, Taiko Dubai and The Nine at Sofitel The Obelisk, and countless other outlets with a 25% off privilege. In addition, to celebrate the cardholders’ anniversary, one free night in any UAE premium hotel, including Pullman, Swissotel, Movenpick, and more, can be availed. For international travellers, € 50 or $ 50 equivalent to dining credit per stay, VIP guests status, room upgrade, late check-out, and complimentary WiFi are applicable worldwide at premium and luxury Accor Hotels.

The ALL – ADCB credit card is the key to unlocking a luxurious experience for members allowing them exclusive and personalized in-hotel access to over 30 hotels in the UAE from luxury, premium, and mid-scale properties with plenty of travel and leisure benefits to delight in.

With over 68 million members globally, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, Accor’s loyalty programme, is one of the most popular reward schemes in the region.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

W Hotels Makes Waves with the Opening of W Algarve

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W Algarve - W Lounge.jpg
W Algarve – W Lounge

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the highly anticipated opening of W Algarve. Perched atop Southern Portugal’s iconic cliffs, the latest hotel to join the brand’s family of W Escapes brings a vibrant, unexpected new energy to the coastal town, offering a juxtaposed blend of seaside relaxation, with exuberant, social energy.

“W Algarve marks the first W Hotel to open in Portugal, bringing a unique, modern luxury experience that is focused on socialising, to the Algarve’s hospitality scene,” said Candice D’ Cruz, Vice President – Luxury Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “From the hotel’s design that is rooted in Portuguese history and culture, to the W brand’ signature music programming to exciting new dining experiences, W Algarve is a destination where international jet setters and local tastemakers can discover an unexpected side of the destination.”

DESTINATION BY DESIGN

W Algarve welcomes visitors with 134 west-facing guest rooms and suites, alongside 83 W-branded Residences, which incorporate natural hues and tactile finishes. Guests can discover large, private balconies with stunning ocean views and duplex-style layouts, and unearth the local culture through curated artwork, custom-made furnishings, and Portuguese-influenced such as bedside lanterns, dramatic headboards, and authentic Algarve tiles. Premium rooms include 10 aptly named WOW Suites, all featuring a private rooftop terrace, and the ultimate seaside retreat, the E WOW Suite.

Spanning 2,100 square-feet, W redefines the classic presidential suite with its signature E WOW Suite. The sanctuary offers two floors of breezy, oceanside living space with a vibrant, clever design reflective of the surrounding villages and scenic landscape. The spacious room features an ultramodern Bang & Olufsen® sound system and a panoramic rooftop terrace where lush gardens accent head-turning coastal views, a zero-edge lap pool, DJ mixing booth, and dining space.

W Residences Algarve deliver the same best-in-class amenities via one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom units that highlight the same clean design, mirroring the shapes, colors and textures of the beachside town.

“W Algarve redefines the luxury lifestyle hospitality landscape on the Algarve coast setting a new social scene for locals and visitors alike, with high energy programming and relaxing moments to suit all moods,” says General Manager Cajetan Araujo. “It feels like the perfect moment to be opening our doors with summer 2022 set to be huge for travel to Portugal, and we can’t wait for guests to discover a new W Escape in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.”

A NEW DESTINATION FOR TASTEMAKERS

From sun-kissed cocktails to southern Portuguese cuisine with a twist, W Algarve invites guests to discover six tantalizing dining destinations, each offering one-of-a-kind masterpieces and surprising spirits. Overseeing dining throughout the hotel is legendary Portuguese chef Nuno Goncalves, who just made his return to Algarve after 13 years spent at some of London’s most iconic restaurants including Quaglino’s, Aqua Shard, Galvin La Chapelle and The Wolseley.

Market Kitchen presents local cuisine reimagined to create modern interpretations of globally inspired classics, fresh from the land and sea. Cabanas await at WET Deck with a double-level infinity pool perfect for soaking up sun, sounds and summer cocktails, while SIP @ WET serves nutritious dishes and cooling quick bites.

Sitting atop the hotel with a spectacular terrace, Paper Moon offers panoramic views of the grounds, Atlantic Ocean, and beyond. The Mediterranean sister to the original Milanese restaurant – Paper Moon Giardino – serves award-winning, authentic Italian cuisine. Next door, Sea Sky is the perfect place to sip and mingle with a pre- or post-dinner cocktail, taking in the golden bay of Armação de Pera below, where rugged cliffs meet the ocean’s horizon. Meanwhile, W Lounge is the perfect place to start or end the night, with fresh petiscos and an eclectic drink menu ranging from single-origin Portuguese coffee to libations artfully crafted using wines from Portugal’s leading female winemakers.

RELAXATION WITH A W-STYLE TWIST

Designed to be the ideal combination of soothing and revitalizing, AWAY® Spa features six treatment rooms including one couple’s room, a hair salon, mani-pedi bar, where travellers can find balance in facial LED mask treatments and pre-dinner touch-ups at the Express Booths. The spa also incorporates a wet area with sauna, steam room, whirlpool and a tented outdoor relaxation lounge overlooking the pristine property gardens. Retreat to the socially charged Beauty Bar with a cocktail in hand before test-driving bespoke jet-set treatments featuring Comfort Zone skincare.

High-intensity workouts and boot camps offered at FIT embody the W brand’s social and energetic take on wellness. Located on the ​​2nd floor, FIT boasts 1,440 square-feet of indoor space and more than 3,445 square-feet of outdoor space, fully equipped with the latest TechnoGym® equipment and an Olympic Power Rack for every type of fitness-forward traveller. Sunrise yoga or a dip at the WET Deck means that there is every opportunity to refuel and leave W Algarve balanced and glowing.

For more information or to reserve, please visit https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/faowh-w-algarve/.

For high-resolution images, please click here.

Credit: Marriott International, Inc.

Media contacts:
Georgie Noble, Director, Consumer PR, EMEA
Marriott International
georgie.noble@marriott.com

Lara Busch, Manager, Consumer PR, EMEA
Marriott International
lara.busch@marriott.com

W Communications
walgarve@wcommunications.co.uk

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 traveller’s desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly W. For more information on W Hotels, visit 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 free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com.

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. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

COLOMBIA RECONNECTS WITH CANADA

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In many ways Colombia is the poster child for post-pandemic travel, says the country’s trade commissioner in Canada, citing a country that is among the most biodiverse in the world, committed to sustainability, and not one that is generally subject to mass tourism.

Certainly, the South American country was on the rise before the pandemic, particularly amongst Canadians, who were leading the way in market growth (and decreased the least during the COVID years), when 4.2 million overall visitors called.

And now with direct flights service returning (Air Canada, Avianca, and Transat) as well as connections through Panama (Copa) and the US, hopes are high that the pre-pandemic trend will continue, which prompted ProColombia to host a recent tourism workshop for the trade in Toronto, which included face-to-face meeting between Canadian buyers and Colombian suppliers.

Attendees were also treated to a lesson in the culture of Colombian coffee-making as an acknowledgement of one of the country’s main exports – and selling points for visitors.

Concha acknowledges that many people “are still learning that Colombia is a different place” than it had during the country’s civil war, which officially ended in 2016.

And as for Colombians, he told Travel Industry Today, “We’re telling the story ourselves. Colombia is way safer (than it has been) and that’s why tourism is happening the way it is.”

Colourful Cartagena

Concha cites the diversity in a country that includes Caribbean and Pacific coastlines (intersected by Panama) and Amazon rainforest, and where nature is never far away, including from cities like the capital Bogota, culturally innovative Medellin, and the historical gem, colonial Cartagena.

About 70% of Canadians arrive into Bogota, says the trade commissioner, and cruise ships are slowly returning, but he maintains that visitors should take a regional approach to travel in Colombia to truly understand the country.

“We don’t sell ourselves as a sun and beach destination; there’s no resort structure like Cancun,” he adds. “We sell ourselves as an adventure, nature, and cultural destination.”

Indeed, Colombia is a naturalist’s paradise. With 31 distinct ecosystems, terrain ranges from mountain to marine reserves, and desert to jungle. There are 42 national parks in the country, which is No. 1 in the world for bird species and is home to 20% of the globe’s butterflies, and boasts a similar diversity of insects, reptiles and mammals.

Birding is a top draw in Colombia

As such bird and butterfly watching are major tourism draws, as are activities such as hiking (including multi-day treks), cycling and canoeing/kayaking.

More involved is a trip into the Colombian Amazon, which is not as well known as the rainforest’s regions in Brazil and Peru, but less developed and touristed.

Coffee farms are another staple, with multiple varieties grown regionally. (A tip: the ideal temperature for brewing coffee is 93 degrees C, and it should be left to steep for four minutes).

Culturally, Colombia is the capital of salsa, and music and dance festivals are common throughout the country.

But wherever one goes in Colombia, sustainability is top of mind, says Concha.

“It’s a serious thing. The environment is a jewel that can easily be broken – it’s so fragile. So, you see cities and towns putting a stop to anything that would harm the environment,” he says.

“Colombia’s sustainable policy aims to protect the environment – and ensure that those who come protect it too!”

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

C’EST TOUT, AMIS: France wraps Canada roadshow

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Destination France recently wrapped its annual (pandemic notwithstanding) roadshow in Vancouver, culminating a four-city tour that saw nearly 300 tourism professionals also turn-out for the in-person events in Montreal, Quebec, and Toronto.

Exhibitors and participants were eager to be back together for the series of events dubbed “The Great Journey,” prompting Atout France officials declare a “promising sign of recovery” after two years of COVID.

“I think you can see from the smiles on our faces how happy we are to finally be on tour again. A few months ago, our daily lives were filled with hesitation and fear… but with spring came the desire to travel and the need to reconnect,” said Mélanie Paul-Hus, Director of Atout France Canada.

Paul-Hus took the opportunity to mention the major events that France is preparing to host, including the Rugby World Cup 2023 and the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris.

Mélanie Paul-Hus, Director of Atout France Canada; Ana Vazquez, Head of Sales for BC at Air Canada Vacations, Edna Ray, Sr. Account Manager, ACV ; and Nicolas Baudouin, Consul General of France in Vancouver

Exhibiting companies, including Air Canada, CroisiEurope, and Destination Occitanie, highlighted new travel trends, such as extended vacation periods or travel during shoulder seasons, and itineraries punctuated by more responsible choices that allow customers to find themselves and take time for themselves without forgetting the possibility of combining professional life and leisure.

The Consul General of France in Vancouver, Nicolas Baudouin, spoke after the workshop, and highlighted the sustainable shift that tourism in France is taking.

“As part of the revival of the sector, the government has initiated a profound transformation of the sector,” he said. “This plan, ‘Destination France,’ has a notable objective to promote sustainable tourism in the country.”

He cited cycling tourism as an example, stating, “In the same way the classification criteria for tourist accommodations now consider environmental objectives, this paradigm shift is supported by a government Tourism Fund aimed at assisting establishments in their ecological transition process.”

Beyond business, the events included an after-show cocktail party, entertainment, and prize draws.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Remains of 80-Million-Year-Old Marine Reptiles Discovered in Saudi Arabia

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Remains of 80-Million-Year-Old Marine Reptiles Discovered in Saudi Arabia - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project, and the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS), the main authority in geological exploration and mapping of the kingdom, have partnered for one of the largest surveys of the Red Sea area. Findings from an initial 10-day dig, carried out by SGS paleontologists, revealed several significant findings and areas of interest – including the bones of an enormous marine lizard over 80 million years old.

The survey was the first step on a journey to uncover the rich history of the region and to provide geological research, data and expertise to assist with the design and construction process. The parties intend to continue their work together to identify unique geological attractions for tourism, establishing the Red Sea as a destination where visitors can discover Arabia’s rich natural history.

“The spirit of adventure has always been tied to the essence of discovery. Our destination is already home to the site of Saudi Arabia’s first underwater excavation, but above the water, we are now finding geological and paleontological evidence of millions of years of activity in the region,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

“This partnership continues our commitment as a responsible developer to identifying, preserving, and displaying these natural treasures found right beneath our feet. Paleontology is a growing area of study within the Kingdom, and we are hoping to help support interest in discovering the ancient heritage buried along our coastline.”

The excursion along the Red Sea coast, unearthed various samples spanning from the late Cretaceous to the Eocene period – roughly 80 to 45 million years ago. Approximately half of the sites surveyed produced rare fossils, with researchers expecting to discover many more on future digs. The findings represent the first record of marine mammals from the Paleogene period to be found in the Red Sea coastal area.

Scientists exploring the AMAALA site uncovered numerous fossilized remains of sea-cows, crocodiles and turtles, as well as bones of mosasaurs, a family of giant marine lizards commonly referred to as ‘The T-Rex of the Sea’ that existed between 80 and 66 million years ago and reached up to 18 meters in length and 14 tons in weight.

Several marine vertebrates found by the team were recorded for the very first time in the area – including remains of one of the largest turtles to have ever inhabited the region. These findings come in addition to a prior discovery of a partial plesiosaur skull recovered from the site.

Additional discoveries from younger sedimentary beds emerged during this phase of geological exploration in the area include vertebrate and invertebrate faunal assemblages of marine crocodiles and turtle bones, and massive colonies of coral reef barriers. This new information shows us that 20-16 million years ago the Red Sea depth was 200m above today’s actual sea level, and the seawater encroached and flooded deep inland by approximately 100km over time.

In addition to paleontological findings, researchers identified signs of prehistoric human activity among the rocks of the crystalline basement at The Red Sea Project. These signs were in the form of prehistoric rock art thought to be petroglyphs produced by an ancient civilization yet to be identified.

The CEO of SGS, Engineer Abdullah Shamrani said: “The rare finds from the central coastal areas of the Red Sea tell fascinating stories about the evolution of life in the region over the past tens of millions of years. Our partnership with TRSDC is helping us uncover the mysteries of these important and unexplored geological areas, highlighting the true extent of the historic value of the destination. I’m sure we’ll discover important landmarks for geology that tourists from around the world will want to see and learn about for themselves.”

“This partnership between SGS and TRSDC intends to unveil important geological discoveries along the Red Sea region, and we are committed with our significant partner to protect and develop the priceless geological and historical heritage in the Kingdom to produce sustainable touristic destinations in accordance with the kingdom’s 2030 Vision,” he added.

The partnership’s early successes testify to the historical significance of the Red Sea’s coastal waters. Over 1,600 historical and geological sites have already been identified within TRSDC’s development area, and future guests will have the opportunity to discover and explore current and emerging finds.

The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the beginning of next year, when the first hotels will open. Phase one, which includes 16 hotels in total, will complete by the end of 2023.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include an international airport, luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, and leisure facilities.

AMAALA is set across 4,155 sq. km. and due to welcome first guests in 2024. The destination is designed to create a one-of-a-kind global wellness hub and is underpinned by a commitment to sustainable development. The whole development is targeting a minimum LEED Gold standard for environmental sustainability.

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 800 contracts signed to date, worth in excess SAR 20 bn ($5.33bn).

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.

About AMAALA
Set in the Prince Mohammad bin Salman Natural Reserve along Saudi Arabia’s north western 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 complete in 2024. It will consist of eight resorts offering upwards of 1,300 hotel keys and 200 residential units. Over 250 contracts have been awarded to date worth in excess of 5 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

Golf, Wine and Dine with the Opening of the New Perelada Winery

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Golf, Wine and Dine with the Opening of the New Perelada Winery - TOP25Vineyards.com - TRAVELINDEXPerelada, Girona, Spain, June 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A year away from its 100th anniversary, the historic brand is celebrating the culmination of the winemaking, scenic and cultural legacy of a family with deep roots in the region. Perelada unveils its new winery, a commitment to winemaking excellence in Empordà.

• Discover the World’s Best Vineyards and Wineries at TOP25Vineyards.com.

Wine has been made at the Castillo Perelada since the Middle Ages, as shown in several documents and parchments from the period to be found in the library. When Miguel Mateu bought this ensemble of monuments in 1923, one of his primary objectives was to revitalize the wine producing tradition, a tradition that is more alive than ever these days and which has incorporated the most modern technology to create wines that make full use of the nuances of the soils and vines of the Empordà.

The singular multidimensionality of the new Perelada winery in terms of winemaking, design, sustainability and wine tourism meets the region’s winemaking tradition and roots, putting Empordà on the international wine map.

Building the winery fulfils the dream of three generations of the owners of Perelada, the Suqué Mateu family, who are committed to producing outstanding wines and showcasing the vineyards of the property’s various estates along with the tremendous wine-growing potential of the Empordà DO.

Designed by RCR Arquitectes (winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize 2017), it reflects a concept of minimal environmental impact that pays tribute to the terroir and landscape, putting emotion and experimentation at the heart of the winery.

The project is the first of its kind in Europe in terms of energy eco-efficiency and environmental design, recognised as one of the most exciting projects on the European wine scene over the past decade. The new Perelada winery is the first in Europe to earn LEED® Gold certification, the world’s highest rating for sustainable building.

• Discover the World’s Best Vineyards and Wineries at TOP25Vineyards.com.

The facilities, which involved an investment of more than €40 million, have already produced the 2020-2021 vintage and are set to open their doors to wine tourism this summer.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News