Global Travel News

Building Back Sustainably Through Cultural Heritage and Community-based Tourism

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Building Back Sustainably Through Cultural Heritage and Community-based Tourism - VISITTHAILAND.net - TRAVELINDEXSongkhla, Thailand, May 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2022 at the International Convention Center (ICC) in Songkhla, Thailand from August 2-4.

The event, under the theme “Building Back Sustainably through Cultural Heritage and Community-based Tourism”, is generously hosted by the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Songkhla Convention and Exhibition Bureau (SCEB) and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) with the support of Songkhla City.

“At this year’s PATA Destination Marketing Forum, we are ready to celebrate the start of a robust Asia-Pacific tourism recovery. Our experiential conference programme highlights best practices in destination marketing and destination management in the post-pandemic recovery world. We’re here to support a sustainable recovery for the region” said PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera. “All of us at PATA are excited to host our next in-destination event and show that Thailand is open for international MICE events such as ours. We all look forward to welcoming you to Songkhla, Thailand.”

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, TCEB, said, “TCEB is proud and delighted to promote and co-organize the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2022, Songkhla in Thailand. The event, which will serve as a driving force for international MICE events in Thailand, contributes to implementing the government’s policy of stimulating and developing the regional economy. Songkhla is one of Thailand’s leading MICE cities, with strong potential and readiness to host international conventions to world-class standards. The city has already built a strong track record in hosting numerous high-profile MICE events.”

“The event will contribute greatly to raising visibility and awareness of Songkhla and other regional MICE cities as international MICE destinations. At TCEB we are committed to supporting responsible, low-impact, sustainable growth in the MICE business, to harness MICE events to benefit local communities, and to drive inclusive economic growth across the country,” he added.

Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, Africa, Middle East and Americas), TAT, said, ”A historic town with rich cultural heritage, Songkhla is also blessed with beautiful beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and a tranquil lake. In addition, Songkhla exudes a vibrant character of a dynamic commercial and knowledge hub with unique local architecture and exemplary cuisine. We look forward to welcoming all PATA delegates to Songkhla to immerse themselves in this remarkable destination.”

Mr. Ampon Pongsuwan, Vice Governor of Songkhla, said, “Welcome to Songkhla, one of the most beautiful cities in Southern Thailand. Since the city is surrounded by water, you will find some of the freshest seafood cuisine, making this town perfect for seafood lovers. All PDMF 2022 delegates are invited to join our unique cultural activities, well-preserved heritage building sight-seeings, and a boat trip out to see exotic tropical plants and creatures in the largest natural lake in Thailand. Furthermore, Songkhla is also home to the biggest convention centre in Southern Thailand, as well as a range of quality hotels. If you have never visited an ethnically diverse town before, then Songkhla is the destination that is worth a visit. Sawasdee krub!”

The event offers a unique opportunity for networking, learning, and discovery, consisting of a one-day conference and a one-day destination experience through a technical tour, as well as various hosted social functions.

Delegates attending the event will have the opportunity to choose from three unique destinations experiences, planned and craft by DASTA, including:

– Nod Na Lae Lifestyle @ Tha Hin Community: Encounter Tha Hin Community local tribe’s traditional way of lifestyle and learn how they are promoting Ecotourism.
– Nature meets Culture @ Koh Yo Community: Explore the culture of Southern ethnic people and enjoy the authentic village unaltered since the old times.
– Heritage Singora @ Hua Khoa Community: Savour the view of Songkhla Lake Estuar and venture around the Old Town that boasts a collection of UNESCO heritage site candidates.

Gp. Capt. Athikun Kongmee, Director-General, DASTA, said, “With our utmost excitement and readiness to welcome all delegates to Songkhla, DASTA has come up with three routes of technical tour wherein the excellence of community-based tourism, leading to sustainable tourism development, is to be unveiled.”

Located in the southern part of Thailand, Songkhla is a fishing town, known as a major harbour and seaport, and the “City with Two Seas”. Most recently, Songkhla has been proposed by the Thai government as a World Heritage Site and UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Travellers will be amazed with the destination’s many beautiful attractions including the city’s Old Town, as well as its great local cuisine.

Songkhla is easily accessible by air from Bangkok, and many international airlines operate flights to/from Bangkok. Furthermore, direct access from Singapore and Malaysia to Songkhla, which had been suspended during the pandemic, will resume soon.

Registration for the event is complimentary, however, due to limited seating, PATA International members will be given priority on a first come, first serve basis.

As PATA acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region, the Association is proud to note that the PATA Destination Marketing Forum is a net zero carbon event and PATA is working with a local green project to help support organisations to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration sources in Thailand.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Launches Mercure in the Heart of Langkawi Malaysia

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Accor Launches Mercure in the Heart of Langkawi - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXLangkawi, Malaysia, May 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hidden away just off the bustling street of Pantai Cenang, the newly opened Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang, an Accor brand, features 164 rooms and suites with “Cast Away” feel. A tranquil haven from the bustling Cenang Beach, the resort offers safe retreats for family and friends with relaxing and comfortable accommodation, equipped with smart TV, high speed WiFi, and user-friendly amenities. All rooms and suites are adorned with locally inspired and nautical-themed art.

Langkawi is a district and an archipelago of 99 islands in the Malacca Strait. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah. Situated just 10 minutes from Langkawi International Airport, which serves as a venue for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), an international aerospace event for aviation industry and aero performances. The hotel is located just a 3-minute walk away from Dataran Pantai Cenang, and a 10-minute walk to the popular Underwater World Langkawi. Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang boasts breathtaking ocean views and lush hillside greenery, and is surrounded with other key tourist attractions such as Cenang Mall, Laman Padi Langkawi, duty-free Outlets and souvenir shops nearby and within walking distance.

Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea said, “We are proud to present the first Accor property in Langkawi, strategically located at the heart of Pantai Cenang, for guests and travellers looking for authenticity and leisure activities. With an extensive range of accommodation, dining & entertainment, as well as meeting and conference facilities, Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang provides an ideal setting for all market segments and events.”

Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang welcomes guests to indulge at the all-day dining restaurant for breakfast, before heading out to explore Langkawi and return for lunch or dinner to feast on the culinary delights including local delicacies at the Rice Garden Restaurant. A live station kitchen is also available for greater interaction between guests and the culinary team. The 99 Islands Lounge & Bar is perfect for small gatherings and intimate get-together, offering a selection of beverages and delectable light bites. Located at the main lobby, it is the ideal meeting point for family and friends to enjoy live entertainment.

The ballroom and meeting rooms boast state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities featuring natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows that can cater up to 300 guests, a perfect destination for meetings, events, private parties and weddings.

“Our team members are looking forward to welcoming guests with a personalised service that is warm, attentive and friendly. Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang will be positioned as the one stop address for business and leisure guests to experience the overall hotel facilities infused with local design and inspiration and which delivers high quality accommodation and services,” said Jasmine Keh, General Manager of Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang.

At Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang, guests can also take advantage of ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

To celebrate the opening of the hotel, guests can enjoy special opening rates from RM448 nett per night including breakfast for two until 30 June 2022.

Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang joins the Mercure brand international network of more than 810 hotels in over 60 countries.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

‘CAMP’ Is in Session: All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy Hits the Beach With Leading Family Experience Company, CAMP, Bringing a Week of Activities to the Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

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CAMP Collectable Activity Booklets
Jarvis Roque
CAMP Counselors
Jarvis Roque
Aerial Shot of The Westin Reserva Conchal

All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy has partnered with innovative family experience company, CAMP, to create an exclusive journey for kids at The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa in Costa Rica. From July 6th through 10th, the bookable family-friendly package brings a week of physical, cultural, and creative activities such as yoga, DIY arts and crafts, water play, karaoke, and more to the Kids Club on property. The package – inspired by Westin’s Six Pillars of Well-Being – marks CAMP’s first international activation, incorporating the brand’s FUN and PLAY expertise to the all-inclusive model, forging a hospitality first.

“We are excited to collaborate with CAMP on this truly unique experience for families,” said Jason Nuell, Senior Vice President, Premium Brands, Marriott International. “CAMP regulars from Boston to Brooklyn and Dallas to Los Angeles know how extraordinary the experience is stepping inside a CAMP location. Now we are bringing that experience to life against the backdrop of the breathtaking Westin Reserva Conchal. Parents will have peace of mind knowing their kids are having a blast, while they enjoy all that this incredible resort has to offer. It’s a win-win for families.”

The eco-friendly Westin Reserva Conchal is set between the exotic forests and unspoiled beaches of Costa Rica’s North Pacific Riviera, offering the ideal balance of soothing escape, local culture, and family fun. Families who book the CAMP Westin Reserva Conchal package will enjoy:

  • Five-night all-inclusive stay from July 6-10 including meals, activities, and more
  • Flexible five-day kids club itinerary (with the ability to drop off or pick up) with activities guided by Westin’s Six Pillars of Well-being:
    • Sleep Well – Westin’s signature programming that supports a restful night’s sleep to recharge after a day of adventure at CAMP
    • Eat Well – incorporating nutritious and delicious dining options from Westin’s Eat Well Menu for Kids
    • Move Well – staying active with field day activities, water games, and CAMP Olympics
    • Play Well – inviting kids to let loose with CAMP’s slime bootCAMP, bubble bash, sing-a-longs, ultimate dance parties, water play, and more
    • Feel Well – stimulating the senses with themed morning yoga classes and educational sessions allowing for kids to connect with nature and learn more about Costa Rica
    • Work Well – creating an inviting atmosphere for kids to learn together and keep in touch with DIY crafts, experiments, and pen pal postcards
  • Date night after-hour services provided by CAMP counselors, engaging kids for a fun night of activities at the kid’s club
  • Voucher for the online CAMP kid’s store filled with a curated selection of toys, books, clothing, and more
  • Collectible travel guide showcasing popular destinations, native animals, and local cuisine from Costa Rica used during hands-on educational sessions
  • Activities like swimming, tennis, golf, table games, beach cricket or volleyball are also included
  • CAMP at Westin Reserva Conchal is ideal for children aged 4 to 12

“CAMP’s mission is to help families answer the question, ‘What should we do today?’ through a combination of play, product, and programming,” said Amanda Raposo, Chief Experience Officer at CAMP. “In our stores, our communities, and online, we create joyful and interactive experiences for kids and their families. Our partnership with Marriott gives us an incredible opportunity to bring the magic of CAMP and its counselors to families beyond our own walls. We are excited to bring play into the family vacation.”

In addition to the exclusive programming at the Westin Reserva Conchal, CAMP will also create collectible travel guide activity booklets for kid’s clubs at other select All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy properties. These destination-specific booklets will feature engaging educational activities including learning pages to discover local animals, cultural touchpoints, culinary wonders, natural marvels, and more.

“All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy is on a mission to transform the way guests perceive the segment by delivering experiences that allow guests and kids to engage, learn something new, and come away from a vacation feeling completely refreshed and inspired,” said Nuell.

CAMP is a totally unique shop/play hybrid experience both in physical locations across the country and online. Inside CAMP stores are rotating themed experiences where every surface is a seamless blend of play and product. With expertly curated product collections, gift guides, top toys, tips on forward-looking play trends, and a wealth of engaging activities for both children and adults to enjoy, CAMP stores and CAMP.com have everything a family needs to have fun.

Marriott Bonvoy is the award-winning travel program and marketplace from Marriott International. It brings together the company’s portfolio of extraordinary brands, which includes more than 8,000 properties across 139 countries and territories as well as its premium home rental offering Homes & Villas by Marriott International, destination tours and activities, and All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy. Members enjoy complimentary and enhanced Wi-Fi, exclusive member rates, and access to Marriott Bonvoy Moments exclusive experiences, all the features of the Marriott Bonvoy app including contactless check-in, among many more program benefits.

To reserve the package, visit hotel-deals.marriott.com/lirwi-camp-family-package/ and to learn and explore more about All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy, visit all-inclusive.marriott.com. For more information about Marriott Bonvoy and to join for free, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy
Encompassing eight leading brands, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy is Marriott International’s all-inclusive platform, offering unparalleled amenities, diverse culinary options, and endless experiences for all ages, and tailored for each brand. The growing portfolio of more than 20 immersive getaways in spectacular destinations include The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa in Costa Rica and Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino. All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy 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 CAMP
CAMP is a Family Experience Company that helps answer the question, “What should we do today?” through a unique combination of retail and media. Launched in December of 2018, CAMP operates nine retail locations in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Texas, California, and Connecticut and serves families everywhere via its digital platforms. To learn more about CAMP, please visit CAMP.com

Media Contacts
Shannon Bodo
Marriott International
Shannon.Bodo@marriott.com

Sydney Shapiro
PR Manager, CAMP
Sydney@CAMP.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Palace Hotel Tokyo Unveils New Premier Suites

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Palace Hotel Tokyo Unveils New Premier Suites - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXTokyo, Japan, May 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / In celebration of Palace Hotel Tokyo’s tenth anniversary this May, the highly acclaimed property is cutting the ribbon on a new category of suites. Six Premier Suites were officially unveiled this month, adding a mid-range category to the hotel’s now-seven categories of suites, which range in size from 75 square meters to 250 square meters (810 – 2,690 square feet).

The hotel turned to the award-winning, luxury hospitality design firm that originally fashioned its interiors, G.A Group, to envision the new suites. Drawing on the elegant-simplicity aesthetic the hotel is known for and taking into account the growing demand for luxury accommodations that cater to longer-stay guests, the property conceived the 90-square-meter (970-square-foot) Premier Suites to better suit business and leisure travelers who desire more space for work and play.

“The luxury market has proven to be very resilient, as there’s always a demand for hotel suites tantamount to pied-à-terres among those accustomed to traveling the world and expecting their accommodations to exude the same level of luxury and sophistication as their own homes,” said Daisuke Yoshihara, president of Palace Hotel Co., Ltd. about the decision to expand the hotel’s offerings. “The addition of these new suites exemplifies our company’s commitment to continuously raising the bar on the products and services that we offer.”

Each Premier Suite’s living space features two distinct areas – a spacious lounge with ample seating and a separate, multi-purpose space in which to dine or work. In the bedroom, which comes outfitted with a dressing table, a walk-through closet leads to an ensuite bathroom with double vanity and separate soaking tub and rain shower. Guests can choose between a king-size bed or two oversized twin beds.

Spread over floors 10 – 15 of the hotel, each of the new suites features two separate balconies on which to dine alfresco while taking in views of Wadakura Fountain Park, the Imperial Palace gardens and the city skyline beyond. In keeping with the original design directive, the verdant landscape surrounding the property served as inspiration for the interiors, with textural elements and an earthy color palette of mossy green, soft browns and light taupe being drawn from the natural environment.

A number of design features add a sense of warmth and richness to the space, including polished timber floors, plush fabric wall coverings and bespoke rugs patterned to echo the wabi sabi beauty of moss as it emerges from untended spaces. Decorative elements range from contemporary Japanese ink wash paintings to sculptural porcelain and ceramic pieces.

The furnishings and artwork are all original and exclusive to Palace Hotel Tokyo, most having been commissioned specifically for the new suites. Curated by Art Front Gallery, the art pieces were all done by contemporary Japanese artists and chosen to reflect the hotel’s connection to nature and the beauty of its surroundings. Japanese sumi (ink wash) paintings reflecting award-winning artist Naoto Sunohara’s abstract, aerial perspectives on the vast Imperial Palace gardens and the green-roofed palace buildings situated within hang prominently in each suite.

In addition to the artwork, the destination is further reflected in uniquely Japanese touches such as the bath linens made in Imabari – a city renowned for over a century for the quality of its towel production – the nambu-tekki cast iron teapots, tea cups handmade in the traditional Mashiko-yaki style of pottery, and Echizen lacquerware tea cup saucers.

For optimum flexibility, each Premier Suite can be expanded into a two-bedroom unit when the adjoining Club Deluxe King or Twin with Balcony room is also booked. Suite guests also enjoy Club Lounge access and privileges, which include private check-in, check-out and concierge service as well as daily breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and canapés. A private meeting room that seats up to six as well as an outdoor terrace offering captivating vistas of Tokyo round out the 172-square-meter (1,851-square-foot) space’s facilities.

“There’s been a noticeable increase in the amount of time our guests spend on-property – particularly among domestic travelers, but also overseas business professionals traveling on tight schedules who prefer to host their meetings and entertainment at the hotel,” said Masaru Watanabe, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s senior managing director and general manager. “So, it’s important that we continue to adapt and expand our offerings to suit the ever-evolving lifestyles of our diverse clientele. With the debut of these new suites, we have every expectation that our guests will want to linger even longer.”

Premier Suites start from JPY 288,000++ per night.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

First Female General Manager in St. Regis New York’s History

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First Female General Manager in St. Regis New York's History - TRAVELINDEX - HOTELWORLDS.comNew York City, New York, United States, May 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The St. Regis New York is pleased to announce Octavia Marginean-Tahiroglu as General Manager of the celebrated and historic flagship property. A respected leader in the luxury hospitality arena, Octavia has been a part of The St. Regis New York family for over seven years and brings to her new role a wealth of experience and expertise garnered from her time at the landmark hotel. As the milestone first female general manager in the hotel’s history, Octavia’s designation marks a momentous and exciting new chapter in the hotel’s illustrious history.

“I am thrilled and honored to be at the helm of one of the most glamourous and storied hotels in the world and look forward to leading The St. Regis New York as General Manager,” said Octavia Marginean-Tahiroglu. “The hotel has long served as the benchmark for luxury travel, and I look forward to guiding our dedicated team to carry on the hotel’s legacy as the best address in Manhattan.”

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Octavia brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role at The St. Regis New York. Octavia is a longstanding member of The St. Regis New York family, having served as the Hotel Manager since 2015. As Hotel Manager, she worked to maximize profitability while exceeding guest expectations through the highest quality service, amenities, and attention to detail. In 2021, Octavia successfully led the hotel’s reopening, welcoming travelers from around the world back to the beloved property. Prior to joining the St. Regis New York, Octavia served as the General Manager of The Tribeca Grand Hotel and the Deputy General Manager of The Soho Grand Hotel. Octavia began her work with Marriott International in 2004 with The Westin New York at Times Square and first joined The St. Regis New York in 2006 as the Front Office Manager.

Octavia attended Hunter College in New York where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She is currently enrolled at Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College in the MBA Program.

The St. Regis New York, originally founded by John Jacob Astor over a century ago, is revered as one of the finest hotels in the world. The majestic Beaux-Arts exterior, elegant public spaces, exquisitely designed guest rooms, suites, and unparalleled, bespoke service have preserved its legendary status for more than 100 years. The hotel is also home to the famed King Cole Bar, the birthplace of the original Bloody Mary. Ideally located in the heart of Manhattan at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, The St. Regis New York is steps from the city’s finest shopping, restaurants, and museums.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

World’s First Fully Sustainable and Solar-Powered Yacht & Residence Club

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World's First Fully Sustainable and Solar-Powered Yacht & Residence Club - TRAVELINDEX - SUSTAINABLEFIRSTElizabeth Island, Bahamas, May 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Ushering in a new era for Caribbean vacation home communities, Silent Resorts and EcoIsland Development announce Club Ki’ama Bahamas, the world’s first equity club to offer ultra-sustainable solar residences and carbon neutral solar yachts. Club Ki’ama is located within the new Ki’ama Bahamas enclave on Elizabeth Island, minutes from Great Exuma. It represents a one-of-a-kind co-ownership opportunity that combines luxurious solar-powered, oceanfront homes with a fleet of solar-powered and crewed yachts, as well as electric day boats, a beach club, spa and restaurant. Construction begins in May 2022 and, upon completion, Club Ki’ama will have the lowest environmental impact of any development in the Caribbean.

“Club Ki’ama represents the future for sustainable residential and resort development,” says Steve Dering, EcoIsland Development partner and global pioneer of the residence club co-ownership model. “It’s incumbent on us to protect Elizabeth Island’s ecologically sensitive environment while thoughtfully creating comfortable spaces where our owners and their guests can enjoy the best of the Bahamas. Our equity club provides abundant owner use while consuming less land with fewer homes and adds an incredible yacht experience. We’re hopeful that our first-of-its-kind club and community will set the standard for eco-conscious development around the world.”

The Ki’ama Bahamas community, Club residences, and facilities were designed by Silent Resorts CEO and founder Victor Barrett. The single-story Club residences will be constructed using linear designs that complement the natural topography of the island. They feature 10- to 12-foot ceilings for enhanced ventilation and light, “living roof” landscape systems, solar panels, and structural timber frames designed to withstand a Category 4 hurricane. The pre-engineered building system allows for the bulk of construction to take place off-island, minimizing disruption to the natural landscape and reducing construction delays and costs.

“We are thrilled to announce our first community for Silent Resorts,” said Barrett. “Sustainable development has long been a passion of mine and Club Ki’ama will bring this to life with state-of-the-art solar technology and sustainable building practices unlike any in the resort and residential markets. We’re excited for our Club owners and their guests to experience a smart, responsible way to own and a new way to travel.”

Club Ki’ama will feature 16 four-bedroom residences and eight yachts. The introductory ownership price is $525,000. Owners will enjoy a minimum of five weeks of vacation annually, including 10 yacht days, and have additional use subject to reservation policies and availability. Club Ki’ama ownership also grants immediate access to the prestigious Elite Alliance exchange program with more than 120 coveted international destinations.

Combining one-of-a-kind land and sea adventures, Club Ki’ama will make a fleet of eight crewed, fully catered, solar-powered Silent Yachts available to owners. These remarkable 60- to 80-foot luxury catamarans eliminate the major drawbacks of traditional yachts – the environmental impact and noise of fossil fuel engines, high operating costs, and expensive maintenance – without diminishing the pleasures that make yachting one of the ultimate vacation experiences.

The Ki’ama Bahamas community will serve as a worldwide example for sustainable development. Much of the resort will be constructed on piers to avoid land excavation or fill using “carbon negative” pre-engineered building structures with near-zero construction waste. All residences, yachts, buildings and amenities will be fully and independently solar powered. The resort also utilizes highly efficient, advanced water purification and wastewater treatment systems. In addition to its environmentally friendly energy, water and building systems, only 18 percent of the total land area will be developed, leaving most of the Ki’ama property undisturbed and left in its natural habitat.

The eco-conscious island sanctuary will feature the oceanfront Club Ki’ama Beach Club, Spa & Restaurant. As the centerpiece of the community, the Beach Club will be uniquely constructed in “tent & timber,” utilizing the highest quality natural fabrics, bamboo and timber with very little impact to the environment.

The removed-but-not-remote location of Club Ki’ama is 36 acres on Elizabeth Island, a private island in Elizabeth Harbour, with a two-acre protected marina and six private beaches. Upon flying into Exuma International Airport, owners take an electric water taxi from George Town Dock to the island, a 10-minute ride. Within 130 nautical miles of the island are more than 365 cays and other islands to be explored on the Club yachts and electric day boats. Ki’ama Bahamas also offers eight spectacularly sited five- and six-bedroom estate homes.

About Ecoisland Development
EcoIsland Development is the nexus of three cutting edge real estate companies: Equity Residences, Elite Alliance, and Silent Resorts. The team has in excess of 150 years of collective, institutional experience designing, developing, financing, and operating real estate projects in North America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. Collectively, the EcoIsland Development team has facilitated the development and financing of more than 35 real estate projects, raised and deployed in excess of $800 million into real estate offerings and generated in excess of $1 billion in real estate sales. The individual companies making up EcoIsland Development are global leaders in their respective real estate silos. The founders of these companies were purposefully assembled to provide unsurpassed expertise in sustainable development, construction, hospitality, marketing, sales, operations, luxury vacation home exchange, and capital stack optimization.

About Silent Resorts
Club Ki’ama Bahamas is the first Silent Resorts destination. Silent Resorts creates communities that are 100 percent powered by the sun and free from invasive infrastructure or diesel generators. Its proprietary relationship with Silent Yachts and its integration of the world’s first fully solar yachts with pre-engineered, carbon-negative, low-impact, land-based infrastructure allows owners and guests to enjoy the planet’s most pristine and undiscovered destinations without harming the environment. Through its global non-profit organization, Silent Catch, Silent Resorts’ destinations support the electrification of the local artisanal fishing fleets, preserve mangrove habitats, fund reef restoration and engage with local island communities. One percent of all Club Ki’ama residence sales will be donated to Silent Catch.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Brings Tourism for Transformation to UN General Assembly

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UNWTO Brings Tourism for Transformation to UN General Assembly - TRAVELINDEXNew York City, New York, United States, May 6,2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The United Nations General Assembly has met for a first ever dedicated session on tourism and its key role in inclusive recovery and growth.

The High-Level Thematic Debate was convened by the President of the General Assembly, His Excellency Abdulla Shahid, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). In the General Assembly Hall, government representatives joined public and private stakeholders in recognizing tourism’s unique ability to drive positive change.

Now is the time to build resilient and peaceful societies and tourism can help make this happen!

Tourism for hope and opportunity

As the first ever UNWTO Secretary-General to address the UN General Assembly, Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “now is the time to build resilient and peaceful societies and tourism can help make this happen! Tourism is a leading provider of opportunities because it is based on people, builds bridges and helps create a better tomorrow for people everywhere.”

Joining Secretary-General Pololikashvili in opening the session were the President of the General Assembly and UN Deputy Secretary-General and UNSDG Chair Amina J. Mohammed, who noted “Every part of the United Nations system, including the World Tourism Organization as its specialized agency for the sector, can leverage tourism to help us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, from inclusive growth to gender empowerment and biodiversity protection.”

UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid also stressed the importance of tourism, particularly for small islands and developing states. He said: “We face a critical opportunity to not only reboot tourism, upon which so many are dependent for their jobs and livelihoods, but to transform it to make it more resilient, more sustainable and more responsible.”

Debating people, planet and prosperity

A Fireside Chat, chaired by CNN International anchor Richard Quest, reflected the challenges faced through tourism’s recovery, addressing how best to reconcile potential trade-offs between the need for economic growth and creating jobs with advancing efforts for overall sustainability.

The high-level debate also featured a special roundtable discussion focused on tourism for people, with an emphasis on inclusivity. This was followed by a roundtable discussion on accelerating the climate-friendly transformation of tourism. The concluding third roundtable discussion focused on re-invigorating investments in tourism.

Placing tourism in the General Assembly

On the eve of the debate, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili had met with UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid for discussions on tourism’s role in the wider work of the United Nations. President Shahid commended UNWTO’s work in guiding tourism first through the biggest crisis in its history and now through the sector’s restart and recovery. The high-level meeting also laid the foundations for the potential inclusion of tourism as a topic of annual debates or thematic sessions within the UN General Assembly.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: May 2-6, 2022

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In the news last week: CATSA apologized for chaos at Canadian airports; the CDC is urging travellers in the US to mask up, again; Carnival Cruise Line marked a pandemic milestone; TPI has a new name; and the trade celebrated Travel Agent Appreciation day with a host of incentives, many extending all month.

NEWS

With chaotic scenes at Toronto and Vancouver airports making news all week, the head of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority apologized to air travellers for the inconvenience caused by recent increases in wait times at some major airports and insisted that CATSA is aggressively working to address the situation.

The United Nations General Assembly met last week for a first-ever dedicated session on tourism and its key role in inclusive recovery and growth. The May 4 meeting came at a critical juncture in history as the industry navigates its recent pandemic past while transitioning sustainably to the future – a future the assembly’s president warned is on a trajectory that “we cannot allow… to continue.”

United States health officials restated their recommendation that travellers in the US wear masks on planes, trains, and buses, despite a court ruling last month that struck down a national mask mandate on public transportation.

BORDERS

Greece’s civil aviation authority announced that it was lifting all COVID-19 rules for international and domestic flights except for the wearing of face masks during flights and at airports. Previously, air travellers were required to show proof of vaccination, a negative test, or a recent recovery from the disease. And visitors to Italy no longer have to fill out the EU passenger locator form, a complicated online ordeal required at airport check-in.

New Zealand welcomed tourists from Canada, the US, Britain, Japan and more than 50 other countries for the first time in more than two years last week after dropping most of its remaining pandemic border restrictions. “Today (May 2) is a day to celebrate and is a big moment in our reconnection with the world,” said Tourism Minister Stuart Nash.

AGENCIES

TPI is now TTG. Travel Professionals International (TPI) announced that it is changing its corporate brand name to Trevello Travel Group, featuring a new logo and identity, but retaining the same mandate of “helping our advisors succeed,” according to CEO Zeina Gedeon, who adds, “We’ve got big plans and we knew that to achieve these plans, we needed to make ourselves uncomfortable and ensure we were ideally situated to expand our position…” The name is meant to signify “natural leaders, independent, individualistic, extremely ambitious, original, courageous, explorers and innovators, which truly defines today’s travel advisor.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

With the departure of Carnival Splendor from the Port of Seattle last week, Carnival Cruise Line became the first major cruise line in the US to return its entire fleet of ships to operations. Carnival Splendor was the 23rd and final Carnival ship to welcome guests back on board after Carnival’s resumption of cruising from the US last July.

AIR

Flair Airlines and Super Channel have partnered to offer Flair passengers an extensive collection of Super Channel programming inflight, with over 200 hours of content available now on select routes.

Swoop launched its inaugural flight to Charlottetown Airport (YYG) from Hamilton International Airport on May 2.

Aeroplan members are now able to directly convert Aeroplan points to Starbucks Stars to redeem for Starbucks coffee, food items and more.

DEALS
The ‘Seize Your Sunshine by AMR Collection’ promotion offers up to 40% off in savings, as well as $200 in resort coupons for guests who book by July 12 for travel through Dec. 22 The promotion is applicable at all AMR Collection branded resorts, including Secrets Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, and Sunscape Resorts & Spas by AMR Collection.

The ‘Summer Vibes’ seat sale from Transat features flights to Europe from Toronto starting at $159, valid on new individual bookings made by May 23 for through Oct. 31. Some exceptions apply.

TOURS

The Lighthouse Project, the Globus family of brands’ initiative to help travellers come together to give generously for the globe’s greater good, has partnered with the Pathways Project, a coalition of leading travel organizations dedicated to broadening access to career paths in travel that lack diversity, from tour guides to entrepreneurship. Through this partnership, Globus will help the Pathways Project illuminate diverse, equitable and inclusive opportunities for people of colour to get trained and land tour director jobs across North America. Says Stéphanie Bishop, managing director for the GFOB in Canada, “We’re dedicated to being more thoughtful, inclusive, and whole as a travel community and can’t wait to train and hire new tour directors who provide a more complete representation of the world and the destinations we visit.”

HOTELS

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has launched a bespoke accommodations program to showcase 400-plus smaller accommodation properties in Saint Lucia. Collection de Pépites (“nuggets of gold”) features a broad range of one-of-a-kind island jewels, including local B&Bs, boutiques, inns, and luxury villas, all of which have 35 rooms or less and not be as well-known as the island’s larger hotels and resorts. The collection has a dedicated page on the Saint Lucia website, stlucia.org/collectiondepepites, where travellers can find detailed information on the types of accommodation and search by their specific criteria such as location, family-friendly or price.

Following the brand’s initial debut in Nashville several years ago, Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels, has made an encore appearance with the grand opening of its second location: the Cambria Hotel Nashville Airport. The brand’s newest addition underscores Cambria’s continued quest to bring design-forward, approachable upscale accommodations with all the amenities travellers need.

BY THE NUMBERS

With Michelin’s latest guides unveiled recently, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts reports that it earned the most Michelin stars by a single luxury hospitality brand, with 28 stars across 21 restaurants in 16 hotels around the world.

Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek, Martinique

RESORTS

Club Med has a unique job opening, open to any applicant with a “passion for sustainability.” Calling the position “the ultimate green job” the successful candidate for the role of Club Med’s first-ever Sustainability Coordinator for North America and the Caribbean includes 12 months fully hosted at Club Med Punta Cana; travel across eight Club Med resorts in Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean to support Club Med’s ongoing CSR efforts and make a positive impact on local communities through initiatives like the implementation of food waste management systems, overseeing environmental partnerships to protect native species; and developing guest activities like beach cleanups and turtle releases. Additional perks include a tropical office, unlimited opportunity for travel and adventure; and more. Apply HERE.

CRUISE

In honour of devoted educators across North America, Norwegian Cruise Line has relaunched of its “Norwegian’s Giving Joy” program, which invites the public to nominate 100 favourite educators for a chance to win free cruises, including on the inaugural departure of Norwegian Prima from Galveston, Texas, in October, and up to $25,000 for their schools. For information and to nominate/vote for someone, click HERE.

Starting in September, Celebrity Solstice will set sail on a series of new five-, seven-, and eight-night itineraries from its homeport in Los Angeles, making its way down the coast to visit some of the region’s most popular cities including Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada, and Mazatlán with select itineraries offering overnight stops in Cabo San Lucas. The Celebrity Cruises’ ship will also offer five Pacific Coastal itineraries that take guests up and down the West Coast from Ensenada, Mexico, to Vancouver including stops California cities like San Francisco, Catalina Island, and Monterey.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

WestJet is celebrating travel agents with its Travel Agent Appreciation Month Giveaway. Having kicked off on May 2, the incentive features exclusive discount rates for travel agents and weekly prize packages to destinations in Europe, Mexico, the US, and Canada. With a total of eight prize packages up for grabs, Weekly prize packages vary, with opportunities to win round-trip flights, hotel accommodations and as an added bonus, Silver status with WestJet Rewards. Silver status includes first and second checked bags free, advanced seat selection, airport lounge access and more. To enter, go to westjettravelagents.com/thank-you.

Through June 1, Canadian travel advisors are invited to participate every week in fun challenges on the dedicated Facebook group Club Med Samantha, Amazing you! The activities will be posted every Wednesday and agents will have until the following Tuesday to complete a mission that offers a chance to win weekly gift cards, Club Med goodies or free stays for two people. At the same time, a monthly challenge, a month-long challenge will provide the opportunity to win a four-night stay for two Exclusive Collection Space of the newest Québec Charlevoix resort with VIP experiences.

Expedia Group’s ‘Fuel Up with TAAP’ booking promotion is designed to help Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) members offset the rising gas prices. A total of CDN$4,500 of ESSO gift cards up for grabs (first prize $2,000). Eligible bookings include standalone hotel bookings made between May 1 and June 30 and used before Dec 31, 2022. The more agents book, the more chances they have to win. Five winners will be drawn. To enter, click HERE.

Virgin Voyages, one of the newest ocean cruise lines to hit the high seas, is celebrating its “First Mate” travel advisors in a month-long show of appreciation. Extended from one week in 2021 to an entire month for 2022, Virgin Voyages is offering weekly giveaways on SeaCiety, an exclusive online Facebook community for First Mates. Every week, agents will have the opportunity to enter to win VV swag with the winners announced each Thursday. To sign up to be a First Mate, which includes other perks, click HERE.

Atout France Canada’s annual travel show Destination France is set to take place in person next week with four in-person events for travel counsellors across the country. Registration is now open for the May 16-19 trade show, which will feature over 30 French destinations and suppliers. Dates are as follows: Montréal – May 16; Quebec City – May 17; Toronto – May 18; and Vancouver – May 19.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

AMR Collection will host a webinar on May 26. Broadcasting live from Dreams Karibana Cartagena Golf & Spa Resort, the session will feature a site inspection of the first AMR Collection resort in Colombia and opportunities to win three-night stays for two. For details, sign in at AMRAgents.com.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Transat A.T. Inc. has announced the appointment of Karine Gagnon, currently Commercial Director, Transat, as General Manager of Transat Distribution Canada (TDC), effective July 1. This appointment follows the decision by Louise Fecteau, who has been at the helm of TDC for three years, to retire on June 30.

Julie Golding has joined Club Med team as Business Development Manager for Quebec, in cooperation with Ariane Brouillette (BDM for Quebec and Ottawa). Industry veteran Golding is an experienced BDM who has worked at Dorval airport, in Punta Cana, as a travel agent, and with hotels and tour operators in Quebec. She can be reached at Julie.golding@clubmed.com .

DESTINATIONS

Starting this week, Canadians and other out-of-state visitors will need reservations to visit one of Hawaii’s most recognizable natural sites. State land officials announced the new policy for Diamond Head State Monument will take effect on May 12. The iconic ancient volcanic crater stands at the end of Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. Diamond Head is the third state park to have such a rule. Non-residents must also make reservations for Haena State Park on Kauai and Waianapanapa State Park on Maui. Reservations are required at certain times to visit Haleakala National Park on Maui.

Niagara Falls Tourism reports that the Ontario city’s fireworks program will return this summer. Canada’s longest running fireworks series will take place every night from May 20 to Oct. 10 (144 consecutive nights). The spectacular fireworks series set over the Falls offers a stunning show against the backdrop of both the American Falls and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The Falls are also illuminated every night of the year, making the destination among the world’s best places to see fireworks displays.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

STARK WARNING: UN chiefs says tourism must be ‘more responsible’

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By:

The United Nations General Assembly met this week for a first-ever dedicated session on tourism and its key role in inclusive recovery and growth. The meeting on Wednesday came at a critical juncture in history as the industry navigates its recent pandemic past while transitioning sustainably to the future – a future the assembly’s president warned is on a trajectory that “we cannot allow… to continue.”

The High-Level Thematic Debate was convened by the President of the General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and included both government representatives and public and private stakeholders in recognizing tourism’s unique ability to drive positive change.

Abdulla Shahid, UN General Assembly President

As the first-ever UNWTO Secretary-General to address the UN General Assembly, Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “now is the time to build resilient and peaceful societies – and tourism can help make this happen. Tourism is a leading provider of opportunities because it is based on people, builds bridges, and helps create a better tomorrow for people everywhere.”

 

UN Deputy Secretary-General Chair Amina J. Mohammed, added, “Every part of the United Nations system, including the World Tourism Organization as its specialized agency for the sector, can leverage tourism to help us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, from inclusive growth to gender empowerment and biodiversity protection.”

Shahid stressed the importance of tourism, particularly for small islands and developing states, but warned of its impact – from pollution (like plastics) to emissions and pressure on ecosystems and wildlife.

“We face a critical opportunity to not only reboot tourism, upon which so many are dependent for their jobs and livelihoods, but to transform it to make it more resilient, more sustainable and more responsible.”

With the UN’s “Green Economy Report” predicting triple-digit global increases in waste disposal, greenhouse gases and energy consumption by 2050, Shadid added, “We cannot allow this to continue. We must not reboot global tourism in a business-as-usual manner. We must be more ambitious than that, more responsible than that.”

People, planet and prosperity

A Fireside Chat, chaired by CNN International anchor Richard Quest, reflected the challenges faced through tourism’s recovery, addressing how best to reconcile potential trade-offs between the need for economic growth and creating jobs with advancing efforts for overall sustainability.

The high-level debate also featured a special roundtable discussion focused on tourism for people, with an emphasis on inclusivity. This was followed by a roundtable discussion on accelerating the climate-friendly transformation of tourism. The concluding third roundtable discussion focused on re-invigorating investments in tourism.

Placing tourism in the General Assembly

On the eve of the debate, Pololikashvili and Shahid met for discussions on tourism’s role in the wider work of the United Nations in which the latter commended UNWTO’s work in guiding tourism first through the biggest crisis in its history and now through the sector’s restart and recovery.

The high-level meeting also laid the foundations for the potential inclusion of tourism as a topic of annual debates or thematic sessions within the UN General Assembly.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

VIVA PUERTO VALLARTA!:My Insider’s Guide to One of the Happiest Places I Know

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I have made Puerto Vallarta, my winter “home away from home” for the past 18 years, even during Covid. Why here? Let me count the ways. The weather is ideal. In all my years here, it has rained twice for a few hours. The average daily temperature is about 80F with a breeze. Nights are cool and balmy. The restaurants and markets provide fabulous food options—from Mexican to Italian to Thai. The service is terrific.

The Banderas Bay region appeals to all types: it is senior friendly, gay friendly, single women friendly, couples friendly, family friendly… even dog friendly. It’s a happy place. You don’t need a car because public transportation (buses, taxis and Ubers) is efficient and cheap. Free WIFI is available all over town.
Here’s my 2022 update of where to save, splurge and make the most of your visit to the Bay of Banderas. You won’t likely find most of these off-the beaten-path discoveries in your average guidebook. Rest assured, this one of the safest, friendliest towns you’ll ever visit. (All prices approximated in Canadian dollars.)

THE “CHEAP THRILLS” SAVE LIST

Taco Crawl
When I read about Vallarta Food Tours, “An Evening Taco Adventure,” I signed up. Who would know better then the Vallarta food experts about where to enjoy good street food? Our progressive dinner included five kinds of tacos, pozole (a stew of hominy and shredded pork) a shot of Mexcal and a last stop of churros (Mexican doughnuts). Tacos are arguably the best bargain in town and stopping at the various stands is a great opportunity to munch and mingle with locals.
www.vallartafoodtours.com

Java Jolts
My newest discovery in central Vallarta is Puerto Cafe, a funky little place that takes its beans very seriously. Dee’s Coffee Company, another favourite for a good java jolt and daily fresh home baking, is on Calle Francisca Rodríguez with views of Puerto Vallarta’s stunning pier. Her sticky buns are outrageously good; one is plenty for two. Just up the street from Dee’s, there’s a sweet senior gentleman who operates a juice stand and squeezes fresh oranges and grapefruits while you wait. Should you find yourself in the Versailles area near Costco, Elforoteo (Los Tules 168) won’t disappoint.

Asian Tapas off the Gringo Path
Located in the Colonia Fluvial (near Costco), Bonito Kitchen is a hidden gem. Owner Francie, who was born in Vietnam and lived the U.S. before settling in PV, offers a wondrous list of small plates. Everything on the menu is flavourful. On Saturdays she includes pho (Vietnamese soup) on the menu. Her cucumber salad with toasted sesame seeds is not to be missed. Other favourites include grilled zucchini with pesto, pork/shrimp pot stickers and slow-braised pork belly. You’ll want to pair these tapa-style dishes with creative cocktails garnished with edible flowers and herbs. Francie recently opened a larger version of Bonito in the Romantic Zone (V. Carranza 512) with an expanded menu and beautifully landscaped patio. Try the martini with smoked blue cheese stuffed olives and lobster dumplings.
www.bonitokitchen.com

Saturday is Market Day
The Old Town Farmers’ Market takes place in the Lazaro Cardenas Square in the Romantic Zone on Saturday mornings. It’s full of vendors selling everything from fresh bread and baked goods to organic vegetables to crafts. Plan to have breakfast as you graze from stall to stall.

Meet me on the Malecon
You must stroll along Puerto Vallarta’s lovely seaside promenade, the Malecon. When the sun goes down, watch a folkloric spectacle in the Los Arcos, the open-air amphitheatre. On Sunday nights a live band often plays in the zocalo. Join the locals, young and senior, in a sexy salsa number. On Tuesday mornings at 9:30, meet a guide at the Millennium statue near the Rosita Hotel for a free Malecon sculpture tour (tips accepted to help fund the Los Mangos Library).

Bountiful Botanical Gardens
Hop on the bus that says El Tuito at the corner of Carranza and Aguacate. The scenic ride takes you south along the coast to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Wear walking shoes so you can explore the various trails and collections of palms, roses, ferns, agaves, orchids, wildflowers, coffee and vanilla trees. A fascinating variety of birds and butterflies call these gardens home too, so bring your camera and binoculars. Take a refreshing dip in the Rio Los Horcones (don’t forget to bring a towel), then head up to the Hacienda de Oro restaurant for an alfresco lunch. The gift shop is full of unique items, including vanilla beans grown on the property. We visit these gardens every year and each time we discover something new. This year the formerly white chapel has been painted pink on the outside and the interior walls and ceilings are festooned with vivid murals featuring tropical birds and flowers.
www.vbgardens.org

Wednesday Night Art Walk
From the end of October to the end of May you can participate in Art Walk every Wednesday evening. About 20 galleries and studios in the historic centre open from 6 to 10 p.m. Most serve snacks and drinks; often they’ll have an artist or two on the premises. Café des Artistes, one of Vallarta’s top restaurants, offers early-bird dinner specials (three courses for about $40) in a lush garden setting.
www.vallartaartwalk.com

Joe Jack’s Fish Shack
The atmosphere is funky and casual, but the cooking is superb. Joe Jack’s, located in the Romantic Zone on Basilio Badillo, is a fun spot for lunch or dinner. Shrimp and avocado tostados slide down extremely well with a gazpacho Bloody Mary or Ginger Mojito. On Fridays, they serve all-you-can-eat beer battered fish and chips. My husband and I always share the whole red snapper cooked with lime, chiles and garlic.
www.joejackspv.com

A Palapa in Yelapa
Accessible primarily by water taxi, Yelapa provides a taste of rustic Mexico with not an all-inclusive or high rise in sight. You’ll find plenty of aging hippies, artists and laid-back locals. Take a hike or ride a horse to the waterfall, then sprawl out on the golden beach. Buy a slice of pie from one of the lady vendors who balance the homemade goodies in plastic containers on their heads. Boats leave daily from Marina Vallarta, Boca de Tomatlan, and Los Muertos Pier.

THE “YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE” SPLURGE LIST

Designer Baubles
PV is full of stores carrying silver jewelry, but for something unique, head to Cassandra Shaw on Basilio Bandillo. Shaw’s mission is to display exquisite silver jewelry made in Mexico, featuring a variety of stones, fossils and materials. Many of the designs are one of a kind, designed by Cassandra herself. The store’s mascot chihuahuas also flaunt unique necklaces.
www.cassandrashaw.com

Tre Piatti
Everything from the rosemary breadsticks to the profiteroles is homemade by chef Chanan who really knows how to pack flavour into his Italian dishes. A huge mango tree makes an interesting centrepiece for the intimate candlelit dining room. This is a favourite with gourmands, so reservations are advised.
www.trepiatti.com

Spa Indulgence
Just a few steps off Olas Altas, in the heart of the Romantic Zone, Angie and her team of certified therapists offer fabulous massages for about $50 per hour at the Metamorfosis Day Spa. There are good reasons why her spa is rated number one in PV year after year.
www.metamorfosisdayspa.com

Say Si to Sergio
Perhaps the loveliest jewelry/art shop in Puerto Vallarta is that of Sergio Bustamente. The famous Mexican artist whose sculpture “Searching for Reason” graces the Malecon, also creates miniature sculptures in the forms of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Bring back a trinket with one of his stylized suns for fond memories when in colder climes.
www.coleccionsergiobustamante.com.mx

Freshly Shucked
A welcome new addition to eateries on the Malecon, La Docena Oyster Grill, offers a variety of freshly shucked bivalves served on the half shell or “Rockefeller” style. The menu also includes lots of other fish and seafood options and a deliciously rich oyster chowder. Try to snag a table overlooking the Bay of Banderas.

Star Struck at the New Casa Kimberly
Before John Huston’s 1964 film, The Night of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta was a sleepy fishing village. All that changed when Liz Taylor arrived to keep an eye on her lover, Richard Burton, while he was filming with the voluptuous Ava Gardner. The publicity buzz about Burton and Liz’s torrid affair, plus the success of the movie, put Vallarta on the tourist map.

During their romantic romp in PV, Richard Burton presented Casa Kimberly (named after the builder’s daughter) as a gift to Elizabeth for her 32nd birthday. The totally renovated and expanded Casa Kimberly opened in 2015 as a luxury boutique hotel.
Several evenings a week, a mariachi group serenades guests with everything from traditional Mexican favourites to classical tunes in The Iguana Restaurant & Tequila Bar.
www.casakimberly.com

D’Cortés, a Hidden Gem
You won’t likely find this tiny gem in the Colonia El Caloso during your wanders. But chef’s creative cuisine is well worth the cab ride. Start with the lobster bisque, continue with lamb osso bucco, braised for hours in a rich red wine sauce and finish with a sublime chocolate volcano cake.
www.dcortes.com

Olé
In 1987 chef William Carballo travelled to Spain to study the language as well as the local cuisine. He was immediately enthralled by the tapas. In 2000 he opened Barcelona Tapas with outstanding views of the Bay of Banderas. Wash down a fantastic array of hot and cold tapas with a pitcher of Sangria and enjoy a spectacular sunset.
www.barcelonatapas.net

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News