Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: How many bottles of beer on the wall?

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Athens might be better known for tavernas and pretty patios, but the Greek capital is not without its worthy pubs and bars, which make excellent spots to sample the country’s burgeoning micro-brewery scene. And one of the best is Barley Cargo, which boasts a selection of beers “as far as the eye can see.”

Among them are over 140 local varieties – many from Athens proper – that in part comprise an official roster of over 350 brews, though some say it’s closer to 500. (That leaves at the least over 200 international brands for those with more established tastes). And more than a few patrons have observed a lengthy list of IPAs in a country where lagers are more common.

Also noteworthy is a unique industrial-style draft beer tap believed to be the longest in the city (if not country).

Located near the National History Museum in the city centre, the pub is ideally suited to lunch or for a respite from sightseeing and, in Greek fashion, provides out-front seating astride the beating street and in a city best experienced under its typically sunny, blue skies.

Interior

Inside, the rustically minimalist interior design features benches and bars rather than booths.

A favourite of Greeks and tourists alike, the establishment is noted for its friendly staff, good food (from beef to chicken and sausages), reasonable prices, and fun atmosphere, which includes live music, ranging from jazz to rock and world music.

But it’s the beers – draft and craft – which are available in tasting flights as well, that rate most highly amongst visitors.

As one Tripadvisor poster exclaimed, “If you are a beer nerd, like myself, you must come here!”

Barley Cargo is located at Kolokotroni 6, Athens, in a neighbourhood notably quieter than the Plaka, and is open every day from 11 a.m. till 3 a.m.

Exterior

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, check us out at:

Related articles: Pubs, Patios and Bars

 

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blue by Alain Ducasse at ICONSIAM Wins Prestigious Global Award

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Blue by Alain Ducasse at ICONSIAM Wins Prestigious Global Award - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEX

Bangkok, February 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Siam Piwat, the world’s leading retail property developer, owner and operator of world-class projects, and one of the joint owners of ICONSIAM, marked another milestone in Thailand’s retail history with Blue by Alain Ducasse, the Michelin-starred restaurant at ICONSIAM, winning the prestigious Le French Design 100 award. The awards that honor French designers for their work outside of France is another accolade on the list of international awards for Thailand, further bolstering its reputation on the global level.

• Discover gastronomy destination ICONSIAM and Bangkok’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants at Top25Restaurants.com

– The award marks a spectacular success for ICONSIAM and Blue by Alain Ducasse, which has previously won one Michelin star for two consecutive years.
– Le French Design 100 honors 100 international creations by French designers that earn France’s design industry global recognition.
– Siam Piwat has moved beyond local competition and won a world-class award on a global stage, reinforcing its leadership as the Visionary Icon and continuing to deliver experiences beyond expectation.

The award ceremony at France’s Presidential Palace was attended by the French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron, Minister of Culture Roselyne Bachelot-Narquin, Hervé Lemoine, the head of the jury, and guest of honor Philippe Starck. At the ceremony, Jouin Manku, a leading French design agency, was honored with the Le French Design 100 award for its design for Blue By Alain Ducasse at ICONSIAM in Bangkok.

Ms. Chadatip Chutrakul, Chief Executive Officer of Siam Piwat Group and Director of ICONSIAM, said, “ICONSIAM is reinforcing its position as a destination where the best of Thailand and the best of the world converge, setting a new benchmark for the retail industry. We have made history and bolstered Thailand’s reputation by winning as many as 13 global awards across different categories. All of this is thanks to Siam Piwat’s vision and determination to inject creativity into every project and creating a perfect symphony of art, culture, and innovation through never-before-seen concepts and stories. In this endeavor, Siam Piwat has collaborated with world-renowned designers as well as Thailand’s leading designers and artists to set itself apart and consistently introduce new and extraordinary experiences to the industry.”

“We are beyond proud to have successfully earned Thailand global recognition for its real estate development capabilities. All of our projects, namely Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, and ICONSIAM, have won numerous global awards over the years. Blue by Alain Ducasse is another business born out of our key philosophy to deliver ‘experiences beyond expectation’. Our intention was to invite one of the world’s best-known chefs to open a restaurant here in Thailand to deliver a first-ever experience and bolster Thailand’s position as one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations. That is why Blue by Alain Ducasse is exclusive to Thailand. We worked closely with Alain Ducasse and Jouin Manku, the French design agency that meticulously oversaw every detail of the interior design to bring the ultimate dining experience and a unique aesthetic to life.”

A vital element of ICONSIAM, Blue by Alain Ducasse is Thailand’s first-ever world-class contemporary French restaurant by legendary Alain Ducasse recognized with an astounding 21 Michelin stars. Prominently positioned on the coveted Chao Phraya riverfront with unparalleled panoramic views, the restaurant has since its opening in 2019 become a prime destination for epicures and gastronomes. Ever since, it has delivered world-class French cuisine using the finest ingredients and has been awarded one Michelin star for two consecutive years. Blue By Alain Ducasse also won the ‘Best of the Year Award’ in the fine dining category from Interior Design magazine, the most influential authority in the design industry worldwide.

The Le French Design 100 award for Blue by Alain Ducasse recognizes the spectacularly meticulous interior design of the restaurant. A design that perfectly complements the majestic vistas of the Chao Phraya River, and reflects a design philosophy that understands the importance of design and ambience for a complete dining experience. The team at Jouin Manku have designed several of Alain Ducasse’s Michelin-starred restaurants in various countries, each time with great success. In Bangkok, Jouin Manku conjured a uniquely captivating space that melds Thai and French influences into a unique space. Walnut wood and brass lamps, which draw inspiration from the intimate gardens – the bosquets – of the Palace of Versailles lend a warmth to the front lounge next to the entrance foyer. An awe-inspiring handmade pleated chandelier dominates the main dining area. With luxurious royal blue walls echoing the restaurant’s name and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the river and city, Jouin Manku has created a magnificent stage for the contemporary French dishes and the superb wine list.

Le French Design 100 is the only design award in France that honors the international creations of French designers, and each year 100 objects and spatial design projects are selected for bringing global recognition to the French design industry. Launched in 2019, Le French Design 100 is supported by the French Ministry of Culture and sponsored by the illustrious designer Philippe Starck. The second edition was held in January 2022 under the patronage of the French President Emmanuel Macron.

• Discover gastronomy destination ICONSIAM and Bangkok’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants at Top25Restaurants.com

The Le French Design 100 award that Jouin Manku has won for Blue by Alain Ducasse marks the first global accolade in 2022 for Siam Piwat and ICONSIAM and highlights their continued success in creating experiences beyond expectation. Over the years, ICONSIAM has garnered 13 global awards at various world-class competitions, including the Best Design of the Year at the World Retail Awards 2019 hosted by the World Retail Congress, the first prize in the Best Shopping Center category at the MAPIC Awards 2019 in Cannes, France, the 2020 VIVA Best-of-the-Best Design and Development Award, and being ranked in the top four in the Best Shopping Center Category at the MIPIM Awards 2021.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

U.S. Tourism Recovery to Exceed Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2022

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U.S. Tourism Recovery to Exceed Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2022 - TRAVELINDEX

Washington DC, United States, February 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global Travel & Tourism sector, today announced its latest economic modeling projecting that U.S. Travel & Tourism could rebound strongly this year, reaching almost $2 trillion in U.S. GDP contribution and exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 6.2%. WTTC research projects sector’s GDP contributions could reach almost $2 trillion, a 6.2% increase from 2019, with Easter and summer travel bookings helping bolster economic recovery.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

News of the strong recovery follows steady gains in the sector during 2021 and signals the welcome comeback of one of the world’s most important economic drivers after almost two years of upheaval.

“Our latest forecast shows the recovery significantly picking up this year as infection rates subside and travelers continue benefitting from the protection offered by the vaccine and boosters,” said Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC. “As travel restrictions ease and consumer confidence returns, we expect a welcome release of pent-up Travel & Tourism demand. That, together with what we hope will be a strong consumer-led economic recovery, creates a positive outlook for the sector.”

Strong Recovery Outlook Anticipated By WTTC And Oxford Economics

Projections by WTTC and Oxford Economics show that if the vaccine and booster rollout will continue at pace, and restrictions to international travel continue to be eased around the world throughout the year, the sector’s contribution of nearly $2 trillion to the U.S. economy could outperform 2019 levels ($1.87 trillion) by more than six percent. Other findings include:

U.S. domestic Travel & Tourism spending is forecast to reach more than $1.1 trillion for the year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 11.3%
International traveler spending in the U.S. could see growth of $113 billion, compared to 2020, reaching nearly $155 billion, slightly below (14%) 2019 levels
Employment in the sector could also surpass pre-pandemic levels, reaching nearly 16.8 million jobs, above pre-pandemic levels by almost 200,000 jobs

“The good news is our outlook delivers a clear message: If the right conditions exist, the Travel & Tourism sector can rebound to deliver economic and employment benefits we have not seen since before the pandemic,” said Simpson. “We encourage global leaders to consider the economic and employment benefits of boosting consumer confidence by allowing fully vaccinated travelers to move freely.”

Related Study Projects Strong Sector Recovery in 2022

New research by ForwardKeys, the leading travel data and analytics company and WTTC’s knowledge partner, has revealed inbound bookings to the U.S. over the Easter period have increased by 212% compared to the same period last year. Similarly, the latest data shows international inbound bookings to U.S. destinations during the busy Easter period have surged 130%, compared to 2021 levels.

Robust U.S. travel bookings could continue through the summer, with a 58% year on year increase in U.S. travel bookings already this year. Summer inbound international bookings will be similarly strong, increasing 87% year on year.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

In 2019 Travel & Tourism generated 10.4% of global GDP and more than 334 million jobs worldwide. To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC urges governments around the world to continue focusing on the vaccine and booster rollout – and allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely without the need for testing.

The global tourism body also urges governments to replace the patchwork of restrictions for international travel with digital solutions that allow travellers to prove their status in a fast, simple and secure way.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

First Fairmont City Hotel to Debut in Vietnam in 2024

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First Fairmont City Hotel to Debut in Vietnam in 2024 - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEX

Ha Noi, Vietnam, February 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor, a leading international hotel operator in Vietnam, is readying to welcome the iconic Fairmont brand to the capital city, with the signing of a 241-room luxury hotel. The Fairmont Hanoi is slated to open in 2024 and will be situated in the city centre, adjacent to Ly Thai To and Tran Nguyen Han streets.

• Discover Vietnam and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s most celebrated luxury hotel brands, founded in San Francisco in 1907. Since then, Fairmont has become synonymous with landmark locations worldwide with renowned addresses including The Plaza in New York, The Savoy in London, Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City and most recently the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi.

For more than a century, Fairmont hotels have served as the extraordinary settings for globally significant moments in history. The UN Charter was drafted and signed by 50 countries in the Garden Room of Fairmont San Francisco. John Lennon and Yoko Ono made history with their Bed-in for Peace at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth in Montreal in 1969, when the former Beatle penned the lyrics and recorded “Give Peace a Chance.” Wherever Fairmont resides, its hotels are at the cultural and social epicentre of the community; steeped in local experience and deeply rooted in the places they call home.

Designed by the renowned Perkins Eastman and Aston Design, the architecture and interior design of Fairmont Hanoi is the result of extensive research into the culture and history of Thang Long. The hotel takes inspiration from the art of lacquer with the traditional colours of Vietnam, the Indochinese style from the French colonial period, and draws motifs from Vietnam’s dynasties.

Located in the heart of Hanoi, only a 10 minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, Fairmont Hanoi offers close proximity to some of the most important governmental and business districts of the city. The hotel will feature extensive leisure and event facilities and is certain to become a favourite destination for both business and leisure travellers visiting the capital of Vietnam.

Fairmont Hanoi will allow guests to discover an urban resort with a wide range of offerings such as six dining and bar venues including a rooftop restaurant, along with two indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an extensive gym, wellness spa and bathhouse. The hotel will also feature an expansive 1,000 square metre grand ballroom as well as nine meeting rooms, making it an outstanding destination for meetings, conferencing and events.

“The signing of the first Fairmont city hotel in Vietnam is a significant step forward in Accor’s development within the country. Our ambition is to debut a greater collection of premium and luxury offerings to meet the rapidly growing demand for high-end hospitality in the market. A stay in any Fairmont hotel is truly unforgettable – our guests love to visit this collection of grand, awe-inspiring properties and appreciate the thoughtful service they receive each and every stay. Fairmont Hanoi will offer an experience that is steeped in local culture and is sure to become intrinsic to the local neighbourhood. The signing of this iconic address demonstrates our appreciation for Vietnam’s development of tourism and its ability to provide leading hotel standards,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.

• Discover Vietnam and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts was founded in 1907 and today offers more than 80 magnificent hotels, rich with character and deeply connected to the history, culture and community of their destinations. Through its Fairmont Sustainability Partnership, the band also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices.

About Accor
Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,200 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor’s unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality – one of the fastest growing categories in the industry – is led by Ennismore, a creative hospitality company with a global portfolio of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and approximately 260,000 team members worldwide. 68 million members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program – ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi Will Soon Open First Floating Zuma Restaurant

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Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi Will Soon Open First Floating Zuma Restaurant - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comIthaafushi Island, South Malé Atoll, Maldives, February 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi unveils the latest addition to its collection of 10 distinctive culinary experiences at the iconic resort paradise with the debut of the world-renowned Contemporary Japanese concept Zuma at the resort in the archipelago.

With breath-taking views of the crystal-clear Indian Ocean combined with Zuma’s unique style and elegance, the new restaurant, opening early this year, is set to deliver a truly unforgettable experience to its international clientele.

Founded in London in 2002 by creator and co-founder Rainer Becker, and now present across 17 locations worldwide, the globally acclaimed Zuma is inspired by the traditional Japanese izakaya. Zuma Maldives is inspired by the beauty of its stunning location, complementing its surroundings with the use of natural materials and local design techniques.

The restaurant features a dramatic entrance combining elements of timber, light and granite creating an immersive optical illusion leading guests into the vibrant restaurant space. The majestic island bar, robata and sushi counter take center stage in the middle of the venue and forms the focal point for diners.

“We are thrilled to be bringing Zuma’s international cuisine to the Maldives on the shores of such a breath-taking and iconic destination,” said Zuma creator and co- founder Rainer Becker. “We share Waldorf Astoria’s focus on exceptional attention to detail and look forward to delivering unmatched culinary experiences to guests with Zuma’s award-winning Japanese cuisine.” “With its legacy of global culinary excellence, Zuma is the perfect addition to Waldorf Astoria Maldives’s fine selection of specialty dining venues. This pristine setting surrounded by crystal blue waters combined with Zuma’s legendary elevated izakaya concept, will provide a dream to the senses for luxury leisure seekers around the world,” said Etienne Dalancon, general manager, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

Zuma Maldives will serve its specialty dishes made famous in its international outposts, including thinly sliced seabass with yuzu, truffle oil and salmon roe, roasted lobster, shiso ponzu butter and spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili and sweet soy, among others. The restaurant will also feature a dedicated lounge area where Zuma’s signature beverages can be enjoyed as the sun sets over the island and the stunning turquoise waters that surround it.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

A New Vision of Modern Luxury Premieres in Dubai With the Arrival of The Dubai EDITION

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Lobby - The Dubai EDITION (Image by Natelee Cocks).JPG
The Dubai EDITION Lobby
Natelee Cocks/Natelee Cocks

EDITION Hotels premieres in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district, a stone’s throw from the city’s world-class retail flagships, commercial district and its flourishing art, design and culture hubs. The Dubai EDITION is the brand’s latest addition in the Middle East following the success of its launch in Abu Dhabi.

Welcoming guests since November 2021, The Dubai EDITION, with its own unique and original identity, embodies its sense of place at the centre of a thriving international gateway city that is steered by pioneering spirit and innovation while anchored in its rich culture. It is no wonder that EDITION has debuted in one of the most exciting cities in the world.

The Dubai EDITION heralds a new generation of modern luxury and pays homage to Dubai’s passion to create something entirely new. The result is an elegant, vibrant, urban hub that undeniably encapsulates the essence of this inspired city and sets the bar for luxury of the future. The Dubai EDITION brings a new bespoke, boutique experience with the acute attention to detail and finesse that the EDITION brand is known for.

From the outside, The Dubai EDITION stands tall within the Downtown district surrounded by world-famous attractions and landmarks. The green-filled entrance to the hotel is populated with bold terracotta pots transporting guests from the hustle and bustle to an oasis of calm. The clever landscaping continues throughout the hotel into the lobby, outdoor spaces and terraces, shaping intimate venues complete with lights beautifully woven through the gardens to create a playful dance at night.

As with all EDITION hotels, the lobby is a dynamic, social space that subtly reveals a sense of place and sense of time. In this soaring public space, the 50-foot-high domed ceiling is reminiscent of Italian architectural structures. You are immediately drawn to the centre piece, a seamless triple spiral staircase, a truly unique design statement that connects the lobby to other public spaces. Dark woods, neutral tones, soft textures and warm lighting glide through the lobby lounge, with furniture placed in intimate seating groups. This considered and intentional space is tranquil, comfortable, and effortless. A grand three-tiered crystal chandelier adds drama and decadence to this modern gathering place to see and be seen.

The cohesive design language flows seamlessly throughout the hotel and continues into the 275 guestrooms, including 41 suites and vast Penthouse. This simplicity in design immediately brings attention to minute details such as the matching of veins in the natural stone and wood. The palette is minimal yet warm, with a journey of slightly different hues and colours. The light oak wood and stone accents flow from one room to the other and evoke a feeling of tranquil luxury. The monochromatic colour scheme and contemporary minimalism make each room feel fresh and light and is complemented by the elegant lines of the furniture, textured upholstery and wooden-lined walls. Meanwhile the spacious bathrooms, with natural toned marble, are fitted with oval shaped baths and custom Le Labo toiletries of EDITION’s exclusive scent. Floor to ceiling windows provide abundant light and lead onto large glass balconies with spectacular views over the iconic Burj Khalifa. Artwork by Carole Benitah adorns the walls depicting a young girl dancing in the Dubai fountains.

Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is home to Duomo, the theatrical Italian restaurant serving modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine. Natural light fills the space through floor to ceiling windows highlighting the pop of yellow in the velvet furnishings, a clear design departure from the natural toned lobby. Abstract digital art is projected onto the dome ceiling above creating an interactive and encompassing dining experience from the surroundings to the plate. The outdoor terrace is adorned with large potted olive trees and lit by lanterns at night with views of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, in the near distance.

Tucked away in the lobby, Leon is a cosy speakeasy-style bar serving original custom cocktails and flavours from around the world. It is an exciting juxtaposition to the rest of the hotel with its punchy accents in orange and red against a dark, rich background. Clever lighting further enhances the vibrant colour-blocking throughout the space. It exudes energy and will be a place for visitors and those living in the city to enjoy live DJs, network and socialise. Leon perfectly channels EDITION’s ethos to surprise guests with the unexpected.

On the first floor, Jolie is a lively venue serving exquisite French cuisine inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavours. Here, wall to wall portraits inspired by Parisian high fashion sets the scene for an energetic, glamourous space to transition from morning to evening dining. The restaurant is filled with natural, earthy hues from the bronze finishes, tan hide leather chairs and the raised olive and gold bar chairs that line the ‘U’ shaped bar. Rattan and teak chairs are interspersed with olive-green banquettes, while parlour palms and tropical plants give a sense of privacy. Seamless Terrazzo flooring is the statement design element throughout the restaurant. On the semi-enclosed balcony-inspired terrace overlooking Old Town, artwork adorns the walls depicting urban living.

By day, guests at Thia Sky Lounge can relax soaking up the sun and jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa. Large chaise lounges and private cabanas frame the beautifully landscaped pool that sits flush atop a deck with teak wood furniture and terracotta potted plants. In the evening, Thia Sky Lounge is a cosmopolitan attraction and an idyllic spot for sundowners and fresh light bites.

The Dubai EDITION offers modern event and meeting facilities including three flexible meeting rooms, an event space poised to host the city’s latest happenings, and a ballroom with pre-function space. The hotel’s large 24-hour gym is light and airy, and fully equipped with Technogym equipment. The hotel will also feature an intimate spa with three treatment rooms.

Nestled in the epicentre of Downtown, the hotel is located near Dubai’s best neighbourhoods and attractions. It is just minutes to Downtown’s bustling boulevard, The Dubai Mall and Dubai Water Canal, and close to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, the soon-to-open Museum of the Future and the financial district. The hotel is a serene escape from busy city life and a vibrant, social destination by both day and night. The hotel is housed in a 23-story building, with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Dubai skyline and unobstructed views of the landmark Burj Khalifa and the Old Town.

For reservations and enquiries please call +9714 602 3333 or visit editionhotels.com/Dubai.

ABOUT EDITION HOTELS
EDITION Hotels is an unexpected and refreshing collection of individualized, customized, one-of-a-kind hotels which redefine the codes of traditional luxury. Displaying the best of dining and entertainment, services and amenities “all under one roof,” each EDITION property is completely unique, reflecting the best of the cultural and social milieu of its location and of the time.

For affluent, culturally savvy and service-savvy guests, the EDITION experience and lifestyle explores the unprecedented intersection and the perfect balance between taste-making design and innovation and consistent, excellent service on a global scale. EDITION is one of Marriott International’s Luxury Brands.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Plans Further Asia Pacific Expansion with 1000th Property Anticipated to Open in 2022

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Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou
W Sydney

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) today announced its plans to further expand its portfolio across Asia Pacific, targeting to open its 1000th property in the region in late 2022. The company expects to open nearly 100 properties in the region this year. With a vision to deliver exceptional and distinctive travel experiences, Marriott is committed to bringing the benefits of good travel to its guests, owners and communities in Asia Pacific.

Craig S. Smith, Group President, International for Marriott International, said, “I am very pleased with our 2021 development results in Asia Pacific. We have worked closely with our owners throughout the last two years to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic, adapt quickly, and grow. Last year in Asia Pacific, we signed two new development deals a week on average, with deals signed in 13 different markets across the region. This year, we expect to continue to drive demand and growth which is a testament to our talented teams committed to operational excellence, and the relationships we have with the customers we’re privileged to serve and the developers, owners, franchisees and partners we’re honored to do business with.”

In line with the company’s recent update around key trends shaping hospitality development, Asia Pacific sees similar trends poising Marriott to further grow in the region.

Luxury Demand Continues to Boom in Greater China
According to research by ILTM Asia Pacific, Greater China’s affluent population contributes to half of Asia Pacific’s total spending on airfare and lodging. Affluent travelers in Greater China continue to look for luxury travel in new and emerging destinations. Greater China remains an engine for the company’s growth, as it accounts for more than half of the company’s anticipated luxury openings in Asia Pacific in 2022. Ritz-Carlton Reserve anticipates expanding its highly curated portfolio in Greater China, debuting its first rare estate in the historic Jiuzhaigou valley later this year. Additional expected luxury openings in 2022 include JW Marriott Hotel Changsha and W Macau – Studio City.

Leisure Demand Paving the Way for Travel Recovery
Research by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) suggests that leisure travel demand has been booming at an accelerating rate. In 2022, as leisure demand continues to outpace business travel, Marriott is poised to strengthen its presence across several leisure destinations. In South Korea, the company expects to bring its JW Marriott brand to Jeju with the opening of JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa in May 2022. The expected opening of W Sydney in late 2022 will mark the third W hotel in Australia.

With wellness and well-being remaining a continued priority for many travelers, the company’s leading wellness brand, Westin Hotels & Resorts, is expected to celebrate two new debuts in Yokohama and Cam Ranh in 2022.

Select Service Brands Cement Their Position in Asia Pacific
Marriott’s select service portfolio is driving momentum for growth, providing a wide-range of amenities and offerings across well-established brands such as Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, AC Hotels and Moxy Hotels. In Greater China, the openings of select service hotels will further expand consumers’ travel choices, bringing guests a diverse range of experiences in emerging Chinese destinations. Four Points by Sheraton expects to continue its growth with five planned openings throughout the year, while Moxy Hotels anticipates continuing to share its playful spirit in destinations such as Suzhou and Xi’an.

Outside of Greater China, the company expects to debut its AC Hotels brand in Korea with AC Hotel Seoul Gangnam and in Australia with AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank. In Japan, Fairfield by Marriott expects to continue to strengthen its presence with six new properties planned to open across Nara, Hokkaido and Hyogo along ‘Michi-no-Eki’ roadside stations aimed at revitalizing the country’s local sightseeing spots and well-hidden rural destinations.

Marriott Bonvoy Builds Meaningful Connections with Members
Marriott is committed to inspiring travel and strengthening its relationship with its more than 55 million Marriott Bonvoy members in the region. In 2021, Marriott Bonvoy introduced several innovative initiatives:

  • “Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy” kicked off the company’s aspiration to provide meaningful travel experiences. The program is set to expand in 2022 with a range of curated, purpose-driven experiences available across hotels and resorts in the region.
  • Marriott Bonvoy launched two co-branded credit cards in South Korea, Marriott Bonvoy® The Best Shinhan Card and Marriott Bonvoy® The Classic Shinhan Card, providing travelers new ways to earn their points through daily spend.
  • The company entered into a strategic collaboration with Rakuten connecting Rakuten members to Marriott Bonvoy’s unparalleled experiences.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to unit growth; our growth pipeline; expected hotel openings; development trends and expectations; consumer demand trends and expectations; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including those we identify below and other risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Annual Report on Form 10-K. Risks that could affect forward-looking statements in this press release include the duration and scope of COVID-19, including the availability and distribution of effective vaccines or treatments; the pandemic’s short and longer-term impact on the demand for travel, transient and group business, and levels of consumer confidence; actions governments, businesses and individuals have taken or may take in response to the pandemic, including limiting, banning, or cautioning against travel and/or in-person gatherings or imposing occupancy or other restrictions on lodging or other facilities; the impact of the pandemic and actions taken in response to the pandemic on global and regional economies, travel, and economic activity, including the duration and magnitude of the pandemic’s impact on unemployment rates and consumer discretionary spending; the ability of our owners and franchisees to successfully navigate the impacts of COVID-19; the pace of recovery when the pandemic subsides and any dislocations in recovery as a result of resurgences of the pandemic; general economic uncertainty in key global markets and a worsening of global economic conditions or low levels of economic growth; the effects of steps we and our property owners and franchisees have taken and may continue to take to reduce operating costs and/or enhance certain health and cleanliness protocols at our hotels; the impacts of our employee furloughs and reduced work week schedules, our voluntary transition program and our other restructuring activities; competitive conditions in the lodging industry and in the labor market; relationships with customers and property owners; and the availability of capital to finance hotel growth and refurbishment. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Vivacious Venues for Valentine’s Day around Southeast Asia

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Vivacious Venues for Valentine's Day around Southeast Asia - TRAVELINDEXBanyan Tree Samui – The spectacular venue of Saffron Restaurant at Banyan Tree Samui proves an idyllic panoramic vista of the sea and all the ingredients for romance this Valentine’s with a signature 3-Course Degustation Set Menu (THB 1,800 nett per person). Alternatively, a 6-Course Valentine’s Day Dinner on the Beach is also available (THB 5,500 nett per person, including one 200ml bottle of Moet & Chandon Rose) or an afternoon Valentine’s High Tea Set (THB 1,699 nett for 2 persons). Couples may also want to indulge in a special Art of Romance spa package at any time throughout the month of February – the choice of a 30-min body scrub, a 60-min body massage or a 30-minute Romance Bath plus one complimentary Wellbeing Sanctuary activity (12,000 THB per couple).

Raffles Le Royal
Opened in 1929, this vintage-era hotel is the perfect spot for an exquisitely classical Valentine’s Day dinner for those in the Cambodian capital. Couples staying at Le Royal between the 12th and 15th of February will enjoy a promotional rate of US$415 per night, which includes a Romantic Champagne Dinner for two at the recently launched Le Phnom 1929 restaurant, one bottle of Deutz Champagne, and a daily complimentary Champagne Breakfast for two. As an extra touch, Valentine’s guests will be welcomed upon arrival with the hotel bar’s signature Femme Fatale cocktail, famously created for US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy when she visited in the 1960s. Walk-in guests can also book a Valentine’s Day set dinner ($140 per couple)

For reservations: Tel +855 23 981 888 | +855 16 700 468 (Telegram or Whatsapp)
Valentine’s Dinner only: Tel: +855 23 981 888

Alma Resort Cam Ranh
Overlooking Long Beach, Alma offers Valentine’s Day experiences ranging from a private boat tour on a lagoon to a candle-lit seafood barbeque with roses. Breakfast in a floating heart-shaped tray at a private pavilion pool features the likes of fruit, sweets, bubbles and a rose. Couples will learn about the life of the local fishermen, watch the sunset and savor snacks, drinks and a Vietnamese BBQ dinner on a private boat on nearby Thuy Trieu Lagoon. Another dinner option involves a private chef and waiter setting up a table with candles and roses and serving the private seafood barbecue with red wine on the resort’s hill with spectacular beach views. Romantic movies will also air at Alma Cinema accompanied with snacks and sweets. Call +84 258 399 1666.

Meliá Koh Samui
The first Meliá resort to debut in Thailand will serve a gourmet five-course dinner in a private sala this Valentine’s Day on the sands of peaceful Choeng Mon Beach overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Served from 7pm and priced at THB 4800 (USD 144.40) per couple, or THB 7980 (USD 240) with wine pairing, Meliá Koh Samui’s indulgent experience begins with ‘63˚C Egg’ served with pata negra, potato, black truffle and chives, and then fresh raw Fin de Claire Oysters with raspberry, salmon roe and caviar, followed by trout with green apple, cucumber and fennel. The star attractions are the Canadian lobster bisque served with Jerusalem artichoke and tarragon and Black Angus sour vide with carrots, beets and duck fat potato. The intimate dinner ends with Valrhona served with forest berries, hazelnut and salted caramel. For further information or to make a reservation, call +66 (0) 77 938 899

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao
Situated on Phuket’s secluded Mai Khao Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao will celebrate its first Valentine’s Day with a private beach barbeque dinner.  The resort, which opened on December 1, 2021, will serve a Western four-course “surf and turf” themed dinner for two with the likes of lobster, wagyu beef, truffle and oysters. Staged at the resort’s lawn adjacent to the sand, the dinner comes with a complimentary nitro cocktail and optional wine and champagne. The intimate affair starts at 6pm to make the most of Mai Khao beach’s spectacular sunset and is priced at THB 5,900++ (USD 178++) per couple for dinner only, THB 6,900++ (USD 208++) per couple for an additional welcome cocktail and bottle of wine, and THB 9,900++ (USD 299++) for an additional welcome cocktail and bottle of champagne.  For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 76 563 550

Banyan Tree Krabi
An intimate candlelit dinner will be on the Valentine’s Day menu at this splendid new resort on tranquil Tubkaek Beach in Krabi. Situated on the hotel’s beach lawn with a spectacular vista of the towering karst cliffs that jut from the sea in Than Bok Khorani national marine park, a special three-course set meal will be served as diners are serenaded by a trio. The price of 7,999 THB per couple includes dining, a bottle of Bottega Gold Prosecco, and one long-stemmed rose. For more information or reservations, call (075) 811 888

Azerai La Residence, Hue
In Vietnam’s former imperial capital, sweethearts can enjoy a romantic dinner for two overlooking the fabled Perfume River at Azerai La Residence, Hue. The multi-course Valentine’s Day menu starts with a local specialty, Lang Co oyster and saffron soup, followed by seared sea scallop with honey-lime dressing and crispy vegetables. The main course offers a choice of pan-fried sea bass with arugula salad, purple potato mashed and black olive salsa or a grilled Australian striploin marinated with lemongrass, sauteed baby bok-choy, roasted Da Lat potato and mushroom sauce. Dessert is coffee ice cream. The Valentine’s Day menu is priced at VND 590,000 per person. For more information or to make a booking, call +84 (0) 234 3837 475.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Celebrate the holiday of love on Feb. 14 with two special dining options at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. At angelina, the hotel’s cocktail bar, whisky lounge and rustic New World cuisine restaurant, the exclusive 5-course  “From angelina with Love” dinner (VND 2.7 million per person) includes fine de claire oysters, pumpkin velouté, pan-roasted halibut, wagyu beef sirloin and a special dessert featuring American cherry mousse, Valhrona chocolate and passion fruit sorbet. High-end French restaurant Le Beaulieu’s 5-course “Essence of Romance” menu (VND 3.2 million per person) includes a baked fine de claire oyster with avocado and caviar, coconut lobster bisque, pan-seared foie gras, wagyu beef tenderloin, and sweet surprises to share for dessert. For more information or to make a reservation call +84 24 3826 6919

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UK Economy Suffered £7billion Losses as Tourism Hit by Omicron Restrictions

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WTTC - UK Economy Suffered £7billion Losses as Tourism Hit by Omicron Restrictions - TRAVELINDEX

London, United Kingdom, February 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Ineffective travel restrictions imposed by the UK Government to combat Omicron caused an estimated £7bn loss to the UK economy last year, due to a massive drop in contributions from the country’s embattled Travel & Tourism sector, according to WTTC.

The attack on Travel & Tourism at the end of last year until January 2022 proved ineffective at halting Omicron and devastating for the sector.

The new figures come from research carried out by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, and has been at the forefront in leading the private sector in the efforts to safely restart international travel.

It also revealed that the global Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the global economy lost an estimated £25.7bn – due to the impact of worldwide travel restrictions introduced to combat the spread of the new variant.

The £7bn loss in contributions from the sector to the UK economy comes as the country finally begins to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Imposing unnecessary travel restrictions to ‘deal’ with Omicron was not backed by science and cost the UK economy £7bn in lost revenues.

“Travel is opening up worldwide. If the UK is going to start to repair its economy, it needs to keep borders open.”

The Travel & Tourism sector is a vital component of the country’s economic well-being, responsible for creating much-need jobs and a significant contributor to the treasury.

The impact of nearly two years of worldwide travel restrictions on both the sector in particular and the economy generally has continued to linger.

According to WTTC’s 2021 Economic Impact Report, the number of those employed in the UK Travel & Tourism sector fell from 4.27 million in 2019, to 3.96 million in 2020 – a fall of 7.2%.

In 2019, before the pandemic stopped travel in its tracks, the Travel & Tourism sector generated nearly $9.2 trillion to the global economy.

The following year, the pandemic brought the sector to an almost complete standstill, causing a massive 49.1% drop, representing a severe loss of nearly $4.5 trillion.

However, the rebound of the sector means losses have narrowed, with WTTC research showing the global Travel & Tourism sector could grow to $8.6 trillion this year, just 6.4% behind pre-pandemic levels.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Dawn for Uganda’s Tourism as New Destination Brand is Launched

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New Dawn for Uganda’s Tourism as New Destination Brand is Launched - TRAVELINDEX

Kampala, Uganda, February 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As the world starts to recover from the effects of the pandemic and opening up borders and skies to global tourism, Uganda, has refreshed its tourism destination brand promise, with the unveiling of a new brand identity that promises both domestic, regional and global tourists, an adventure of a lifetime.

The new brand Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, draws upon Uganda’s global reputation as one of the most endowed destinations, famous for its thousands of plant and wildlife attractions, as well as vast and beautiful landscapes, temperate climate, warm people, and cultural diversity.

• For a relax stay in Kampala, within easy reach of the Central Business District, stay at Glenville Suites. Book direct at the best available…

The brand identity—Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, was unveiled on Friday, 21st January 2022, by the country’s president, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. The president was assisted by Col. Rtd Tom Butime, Hon Martin Bahinduka Mugarra and Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the Cabinet, State Minister and Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, respectively. The Brand was developed by Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda’s tourism marketing and regulatory agency.

The Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lilly Ajarova and her Deputy, Mr. Bradford Ochieng; and the Board Chairman, Hon. Daudi Migereko together with board members, hosted the unveiling, held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.

Explaining the new brand promise, Ajarova, said that the new brand promise seeks to re-emphasize Uganda’s rare and precious range of tourism attractions to the world, thereby earning destination Uganda competitive market share.

“Uganda is no doubt beautiful. Beautiful beyond measure. Yes, everyone knew that Uganda is and has always been the Pearl of Africa, – but there was a lack of clarity and consistency on, if Uganda is the Pearl of Africa- what pearls does it have to offer for each of the various travel segments and preferences,” she said, adding: “To win the marketplace; to achieve our Number One objective of “Sustainably Promoting Uganda as a Competitive Tourism Destination for Inclusive Development” it was therefore important that all stakeholders are aligned on what makes us the Pearl of Africa and how do we unpack that to the various travel markets/segments around the world.”

“Explore, Uganda the Pearl of Africa is an invitation to our tourists- both domestic, regional and international to rediscover the magnificence of the Pearl. We are promising and inviting them to Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, for ADVENTURE OF THEIR LIFETIME,” she said.

Before the new brand, there were a number of campaigns by various stakeholders, most of which were built around “Visit Uganda” as a call to action, something that Ajarova says did not appropriately capture the uniqueness of Uganda’s attractions.

“If you think about it, when you invite someone to visit you, you are simply asking them to check on you, maybe for a few days. But an invitation to EXPLORE is really about inviting someone to indulge themselves. To spoil themselves; to delve into; to deep-dive; to discover and rediscover- the depth, range and variety of attractions in the pearl,” Ms Ajarova further explained.

Speaking at the launch, President Museveni urged beckoned the world to Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa saying that, the uniqueness of her attractions guaranteed a better experience and higher return on investment. He particularly extolled Uganda’s unique terrain, that made the country a “roof of Africa” where Lake Victoria sits, giving birth to the Mighty River Nile that flows through various Ugandan lakes on its way to Alexandria in Egypt.

He also highlighted Uganda’s abundant vegetation, temperate climate, variety of wildlife, strategic location on the Equator, cultural diversity, community tourism, peace and security, among others.

He also said, Uganda’s unique place in anthropogeny as the birthplace of humankind should be studied, documented and sold as a tourist attraction. Mr. Museveni welcomed the new brand promise and recognized Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) for the imaginative repackaging of Uganda’s tourism value proposition.

“Uganda is a very nice place, but it needed a group to talk about it; to inform the world,” he said adding: “I am very happy with the new group headed by our daughter Ajarova…. I salute that group. You can see they are putting a lot of imagination into what they are doing.”

“I congratulate the board by led by Hon. Daudi Migereko (Chairman) and others. I also congratulate the Ministry, under Col. Rtd. Tom Butime,” he said.

Rebuilding, Restarting Tourism And Positioning Uganda As The Most Competitive Destination In Africa

The rebranding is an essential component of UTB’s Strategic Plan (FY 2020/21 – 2024/25) that seeks to “Sustainably Promote Uganda as a Competitive Tourism Destination for Inclusive Development” with a strategic goal to “sustainably increase the volume and value of tourism in Uganda.”

Under this plan, UTB is pursuing 5 major objectives, namely:

i) To Increase Tourist Arrivals
ii) To Increase Investment and Job Creation in The Tourism Sector

iii) Increase The Competitiveness of the Tourism Destination
iv) To Improve Collection and Access to Tourism Information
v) To Improve Internal Efficiency and Effectiveness

From the above objectives, UTB, expects, by 2024/25 to work with all stakeholders to restart, rebuild and deliver to market tourism experiences that will help Uganda to:

vi) Recover from the impact of the pandemic that saw us lose up to USD1 billion in revenue in 2020, reach the pre-pandemic levels of USD 1.45 billion and grow that further to USD 1.862 billion
vii) Recover the contribution of tourism to total employment at 667,600 people (6.3% of total employment)
viii) Increase inbound tourism revenues per visitor from USD1,036 to USD1,500
ix) Recover the average number of International Tourist arrivals from the U.S, Europe, Middle East, China and Japan at 225,300 tourists
x) Increase the proportion of leisure to total tourists from 20.1% to 30%
xi) Increase the number of direct flight routes to Europe and Asia from 6 to 30

Col Rtd. Tom Butime said that before the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism in Uganda was on a strong and positive trajectory, reading in Foreign Exchange earnings and accounting for 7.7% of GDP and about 6.3% of all formal employment in the country.
“The launch of the Brand is part of a response to the recovery after this dreadful pandemic. We are getting back into the market with a unified message and a clear promise and call to action. The launch of the Destination Brand is both vital to the restarting and rebuilding of the tourism sector as it provides a positive, recognizable and firm assurance of the beauty we radiate as a people and landscape of Uganda,” he said.

“The Destination Brand and the marketing activities that shall follow it are not in isolation. They complement other existing initiatives by the government to improve our product offering, improve the consumer experience and therefore widen opportunities for the private sector as well as quicken the pace of recovery. These measures, most of which are part of the Tourism Development Programme of the National Development Programme (NDP) III, include increased marketing efforts, the development of tourism infrastructure, addressing human-wildlife conflict and diversifying our product offer. There are also several initiatives being undertaken at the regional integration level, aimed at enhancing our competitiveness as a Destination,” added Butime.

He also underscored the need to help the Private Sector manage the financial burden through affordable financing options, expanding the marketing support campaign and developing competitive products on the world market.

Concerted stakeholder engagement

Hon. Migereko, the board chairman, thanked the national steering committee that was central to the development of the brand, led by Dr. Patrick Bitature, and reaffirmed UTB’s commitment to work with all stakeholders, to realise the full benefits of the renewed brand and the associated tourism marketing efforts.
“The launch of this destination brand is bound to benefit the entire country, provided after this launch all key stakeholders can consistently work hard to render our tourism products competitive and attractive; to enhance the image of destination Uganda; to scale up the quality of services and positive messages to give the brand its worth as well as improve the ease of doing business,” he said.

“It is going to be our duty at Uganda Tourism Board to ensure that we come up with requisite strategies and to reach out to all stakeholders both in and out of the Tourism value chain so that they can fully participate in this business but are also supported to register reasonable returns on whatever they invest,” he added.

• For a relax stay in Kampala, within easy reach of the Central Business District, stay at Glenville Suites. Book direct at the best available…

About Uganda Tourism Board
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is a statutory organisation established in 1994 mandated to promote and market Uganda domestically, across the region and internationally, promote quality assurance in tourist facilities through training, grading and classification, promote tourism investment, support and act as liaison for the private sector in tourism development. The broader goals of the Board are to increase the contribution of tourism earnings and GDP; improve Uganda’s competitiveness as an international tourism destination; and increase Uganda’s share of Africa’s and World tourism market. UTB aims to create inclusive opportunities for the tourism sector through market transformation.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News