Global Travel News

GSTC Recognizes GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Destination Standard

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GSTC Recognizes GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Destination Standard - TRAVELINDEXKelowna, Canada, December 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is pleased to announce that the GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Destination Standard has achieved the ‘GSTC-Recognized Standard’ status.

GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Standards are used by GreenStep Solutions in their assessment and verification programs which provide tools, resources, and consultative support to destinations and businesses across the tourism industry. The Sustainable Tourism standards enable tourism businesses and destinations to measure their sustainability performance in several key categories; management, social, economic, natural, cultural, and environmental.

The GSTC-Recognized status refers to the standard itself and means that a sustainable tourism standard or system has been reviewed by GSTC technical experts and the GSTC Assurance Panel and deemed the standard or system equivalent to the GSTC Criteria for sustainable tourism. It shows that the set of standards is based on the 4 pillars of the GSTC Criteria: Environment, Social, Cultural, and Management principles. This does not relate to the process of certification, nor to accreditation.

“We are thrilled to have achieved GSTC-Recognized status for our tourism destination standard,” says Angela Nagy – President & CEO of GreenStep Solutions. “Now our industry and destination partners, customers, and those that are using our complimentary online Sustainability Score assessments can rest assured knowing they are measuring their sustainability performance based on globally accepted best practices and standards.”

“Congratulations to GreenStep for their continued development in providing tools and support for systematic approaches to sustainable tourism,” says Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.

Currently, 11 destination standards, 32 hotel standards, and 14 tour operator standards have achieved GSTC-Recognized status. The status offers the market proof that these standards adhere to international norms. GSTC Recognition does not ensure that a certification process is reliable, only that the set of standards used to certify are equivalent to the GSTC Criteria. GSTC-Recognized standard owners are encouraged to follow and complete the accreditation process, which assures that the certification process used to apply the standard meets international best practice, transparency, and rigor.

About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are two sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, and Industry Criteria for hotels and tour operators. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources, while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.

The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for Accreditation of Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services; but it accredits those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGO’s, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.

About GreenStep Solutions
GreenStep Solutions was founded in 2008 to help businesses and organizations measure and improve their sustainability performance. To date, GreenStep has worked with more than 3000 businesses and organizations within several sectors, including private, public, non-profit, and academic institutions; in a variety of industries such as tourism and hospitality, retail, professional services, and manufacturing; and with organizations of all sizes, from owner-operated businesses to publicly traded companies. Through their Sustainable Tourism Division, GreenStep provides assessments, training, strategy, and certifications to tourism businesses and destinations. GreenStep is a Certified B Corporation, is powered by 100% renewable energy with Bullfrog Power, and is Certified Carbon Neutral with Offsetters.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kamalaya Sanctuary Koh Samui Embraces Philanthropic Partner

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Kamalaya Sanctuary Koh Samui Embraces Philanthropic Partner - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, December 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / With an interest in preserving the original vision and integrity of Kamalaya, founders John and Karina Stewart have entered a strategic partnership with Thai-based businessman and technology investor Chakrit Sakunkrit who joins the world-renowned wellness retreat as a co-owner.

Kamalaya’s visionary founders John and Karina Stewart will continue in their respective roles as Chairman and Chief Wellness Officer of Kamalaya, both contributing to the operations and management of Kamalaya Koh Samui while spearheading the continued development of the brand and ensuring its legacy.

Kamalaya’s founders and the team of professionals and health practitioners will continue to operate Kamalaya Koh Samui in the way in which wellness travellers know, love and trust while exploring options to expand the reach and breadth of the Kamalaya experience.

Speaking of his investment, Mr. Chakrit Sakunkrit said: “Since its inception 16 years ago, Kamalaya has remained at the forefront of wellness, and now more than ever, the world needs Kamalaya. Thailand needs Kamalaya, wellness tourism needs Kamalaya, and most importantly our guests need Kamalaya. It is for the benefit of Thailand’s wellness tourism that I am pleased to have been invited to make this philanthropic investment into Kamalaya. It will enable the founders, John and Karina Stewart, to continue realising their vision and to help a great many people on their personal journey to lifelong wellness.”

Founder & Chairman John Stewart said: “We welcome Khun Chakrit with open arms, as our shared vision on health, wellness, and sustainable business, makes him the ideal partner for Kamalaya. Karina and I, along with our team look forward to working closely with Khun Chakrit and his network, combining our collective knowledge and passion in the fields of health, wellness, technology and philanthropy to continue to develop Kamalaya.”

Founder & Chief Wellness Officer Karina Stewart adds, “Kamalaya is a place where growth and transformation, a natural life process, will always be nurtured, guided and supported. We look forward to working with our new partner Khun Chakrit to enhance and add complementing capabilities and facilities to our existing service offering at our beautiful sanctuary.

This move ultimately supports the continuous evolution of Kamalaya, bettering its ability to remain a sacred place where our guests can re-connect with themselves and their natural surroundings. John and I are very excited about our new partnership and what it will do for the future of Kamalaya in the coming decades.”

Chakrit Sakunkrit’s addition to the Kamalaya family comes at a pivotal moment for international travel and global wellness tourism as Thailand’s borders re-open and the world-renowned wellness sanctuary prepares for a bright future.

Catering to the needs of individuals, Kamalaya launched in 2005 with a host of curated wellness programmes that addressed prevalent concerns of the time, including anxiety, loneliness, and discontent. Over the years, three additional programmes have been added. Now, after a long pause on international travel, the holistic wellness offerings at Kamalaya are more significant than ever before.

Throughout the global pandemic, Kamalaya Koh Samui remained open to guests. Now with the re-opening of Thailand, the team of hosts and health practitioners are ready to re-connect with guests and look forward to welcoming international travellers back to the wellness sanctuary for the remainder of 2021 and beyond.

About Kamalaya Koh Samui
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa is a multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary located on the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. Founded by John and Karina Stewart in 2005, Kamalaya offers a synergistic wellness experience that helps people reconnect to life’s potential and achieve optimal wellbeing, while integrating healing therapies from East and West, including customized programmes that approach Detoxification, Stress & Burnout, Enriched Gut, Sleep Enhancement, Yoga Synergy and Emotional Balance.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PACKING HEAT?: Check your weapons

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Data from the American Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reveals that more than 5700 firearms at airport security checkpoints have been confiscated in 2021 so far – the highest ever in a single year. That breaks down to about 16 weapons every single day – and here’s the really scary part – 85 percent of them were loaded.

The previous yearly record was 4,400 in 2019.

Airline passengers are permitted to transport an unloaded firearm – but only in checked baggage.

Passengers who are found with firearms at checkpoints face fines of up to US $13,910 – higher for repeat offenders. Local law enforcement can confiscate the weapons at checkpoints and can arrest those in possession of a firearm.

“It’s an all time high,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske told reporters this week. “The reason? I think there’s just more firearm carriage in the country. That’s the best answer I can give you.”

“It’s a pretty costly mistake to make,” he said and noted that the TSA will “always proceed with a civil penalty action that will cost thousands of dollars after we complete an investigation.”

It also refers the issue to law enforcement if local or state laws are broken.

“We see a strengthening in the airline travel industry toward pre-pandemic levels and our goal is to ensure you as the passenger have a safe and secure flight,” Pekoske said and he thanked TSA.officers across the country, “who, each and every day, meet the travel volume demand and help keep airport screening lanes moving to ensure millions of passengers arrive at their destinations safely.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Phuket Hotels Association Welcomes New Leadership Team

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Phuket Hotels Association Welcomes New Leadership Team - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25 HotelsPhuket, Thailand, December 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Bjorn Courage was named as the association’s President and Sumi Soorian promoted to the role of Executive Director, while long-term leader Anthony Lark will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor. The Phuket Hotels Association, a non-profit organisation with 72 member properties, has embarked on an exciting new era with the appointment of a new senior leadership team.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels at Top25Hotels.com

Bjorn Courage, General Manager of the InterContinental Phuket Resort, who has more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, has been named as the Association’s new President of the Phuket Hotels Association, succeeding founding President, Anthony Lark, ex General Manager of Amanpuri, Trisara, and now Executive Director at HMD, Shinta Mani and Bensley Collection hotels.

Sumi Soorian, who has been with the Phuket Hotels Association since its foundation in 2016 and most recently served as Development Director, has also been promoted to Executive Director. A marketing and communications professional who specialises in project management and business development, Sumi graduated in the USA and has worked in multiple countries, including Australia, China and Thailand.

Bjorn moves into the role of President at a time of optimism for Phuket’s tourism and hospitality industry. The island was one of the first Southeast Asian destinations to safely reopen to international visitors when it launched the innovative “Phuket Sandbox” programme in July 2021, and its hotels and resorts are now gearing up for a strong recovery in the winter high season and beyond.

There can be few more qualified people to lead this proactive organisation than Bjorn. During the course of a 25-year career, he has worked with many of the industry’s most iconic brands, including IHG, Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, Six Senses, and Mandarin Oriental. He also successfully completed Cornell University’s Executive Leadership programme.

“During these initial times of recovery from the Covid pandemic, I am proud to serve our member hotels, communities and destination to the best of my ability. I will strive to continue and further evolve the important work done by the association, working groups and member hotels to-date, especially in regard to our association’s three key pillars: Marketing, Environment and Education. Thank you to Anthony for his leadership since the inauguration of the Phuket Hotel Association and for continuing to serve the Association as Senior Advisor,” Bjorn commented.

Since it was founded in January 2016, the Phuket Hotels Association has grown to represent 72 of the island’s top internationally-branded and independent luxury and midscale hotels and resorts, comprising just over 12,000 rooms. Each of these members has made a commitment to the destination and, through the Phuket Hotels Association, are actively investing in a sustainable future through long-term environmental and educational initiatives.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels at Top25Hotels.com

Anthony Lark will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor to the Association, alongside Bill Barnett, a founder of the Phuket Hotels Association and Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks, David Keen, CEO of QUO, David Johnson, CEO of Delivering Asia Communications, Boon Yongsakul, Chairman of Boat Pattana, and Saharat Jivavisitnont, Executive Director at Jee Teng Hospitality Group.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Naladhu Private Island Maldives Opens with Contemporary Redesign

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Naladhu Private Island Maldives Opens with Contemporary Redesign - TRAVELINDEXSouth Malé Atoll, Maldives, December 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Naladhu Private Island is once again welcoming guests after a much anticipated transformation. During a six-month closure the intimate Maldives resort has had a complete redesign by New York based designer Yuji Yamazaki and now flaunts a sleek contemporary look.

Home to just 20 ‘Houses’, Naladhu offers the ultimate in privacy and seclusion and ensures an unrivalled level of service to meet the needs of the most discerning traveller. The guest experience at Naladhu is enhanced by the personal Kuwaanu.  Deriving from the Dhivehi word for storyteller in the Maldivian language, the Kuwaanu offers a refined and seamless butler service 24 hours a day.

The resort’s top suite, the 600 square metre Two Bedroom Beach Pool Residence, now boasts a 20-metre private beach. Dining is completely bespoke, with an all-day breakfast and a no-menu concept in the resort’s restaurant ‘The Living Room’. A luxurious couple’s spa room has also been added.

Located on the edge of a pristine lagoon in the South Malé Atoll, Naladhu Private Island is just 30 minutes by luxury speedboat from Velana International Airport in Malé.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sustainable Tourism Can Offer Mountain Communities Path to Prosperity

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Sustainable Tourism Can Offer Mountain Communities Path to Prosperity

Rome, Italy, December 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / FAO and UNWTO launch new publication at high-level event to celebrate International Mountain Day 2021. Sustainable tourism plays a key role in boosting livelihoods, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation in mountainous areas, according to a new report launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and UNWTO at an International Mountain Day 2021 celebration event.

Mountain tourism – Towards a more sustainable path, jointly developed by FAO, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), highlights the role of tourism in the sustainable development of mountain regions. The publication features examples of innovation, best practices and initiatives from all over the world, as well as practical guidelines and recommendations in the context of building back better for sustainable mountain tourism.

Sustainable tourism can serve as an important driver of socio-economic development in mountain areas

“For many mountain communities, tourism is their livelihood,” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu stressed at the event. “Promoting sustainable eco-tourism, agri-tourism and wellness tourism can help generate new jobs, diversify income, build robust micro-economies and revitalize products and services,” he added, encouraging everyone to work together to protect fragile mountain ecosystems and “rethink and reshape mountain tourism for the benefit of mountain communities, global wellbeing and the planet’s health.”

“Sustainable tourism can serve as an important driver of socio-economic development in mountain areas. Well managed, community-based tourism increases and diversifies household incomes, enhances job and livelihood opportunities, supports traditional systems, builds resilience and helps to conserve and promote natural and cultural heritage across landscapes,” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili.

The theme of International Mountain Day 2021

The United Nations has designated 11 December as International Mountain Day, with FAO as the lead agency for its coordination. Celebrated every year, it creates awareness about the importance of mountains to life, highlighting the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and building alliances that will bring positive change to mountain peoples and environments around the world.

With mountain destinations attracting around 15-20 percent of global tourism, International Mountain Day 2021’s theme of sustainable mountain tourism recognizes the sector’s role in valuing the natural and cultural heritage of mountains and mountain peoples, promoting sustainable food systems, and protecting mountain ecosystems and their biodiversity.

The Year’s theme also draws attention to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it can be an opportunity to rebuild mountain tourism in a greener and more sustainable and inclusive way. This means ensuring community empowerment, effective measurement of the impact of tourism in mountains, the effective management of resources and waste, and the definition of carrying capacity for destinations.

A joint effort

Today’s high-level International Mountain Day event was opened by the FAO Director-General QU Dongyu and UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. Other participants included Maria Ubach, Andorra’s Minister of Foreign Affairs , Christine Bulliard-Marbach Swiss Parliamentarian, Member of the National Council and President of the Swiss Association for Mountain Regions, Roberto Natali, Plenipotentiary Minister and Directorate General for Development Cooperation for the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones, Chief Operating Officer of the Philippines Tourism Promotions Board and mountaineer Reinhold Messner. FAO Deputy Director-General Maria Helena Semedo gave the concluding remarks. Stella Jean – an Italian-Haitian fashion designer was appointed Mountain Partnership Goodwill Ambassador in recognition of her work with mountain women artisans from Kyrgyzstan. Dilshodbegim Khusravova, a Tajik young activist, was named Youth Mountain Partnership Goodwill Ambassador for her work in early warning disaster prevention systems in the mountains of Tajikistan.

The event highlighted the need to promote dialogue and cooperation to tap mountain tourism’s full potential to contribute to sustainable development. It highlighted the work that many Mountain Partnership members and UNWTO member states are doing to ensure that mountain communities are not left behind in the spirit of the UN 2030 Agenda.
Sustainable best practices

According to the study, sustainable mountain tourism products and services should shift from high-impact tourism to low-impact, climate-sensitive ones, and create new opportunities, bringing tangible benefits to local communities, while helping to enhance the conservation of the unique mountain heritage. They should also be inclusive, providing a good quality of employment and decent work. The publication highlights projects from across the world that are doing just that, including in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, where the country’s Department of Tourism, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat and Slow Food are connecting tourism service providers to small-scale producers so visitors can discover high-quality mountain products, and ‘astrostays’ in the Himalayas, which are homestays provided by local communities that include stargazing activities.

FAO and UNWTO have a long history of working together, boosted by a recent Memorandum of Understanding between the two parties. This establishes further commitment to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship, drive sustainable development, and strengthen livelihoods through rural tourism, agritourism, nature tourism, outdoor activities and other forms of landscape-based tourism. It envisages, among others, collaborative activities within the framework of FAO’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), the Coalition of Fragile Ecosystems and the Green Cities Initiative.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Luxury Collection Announces New Global Explorer Caroline de Maigret

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Caroline de Maigret

The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, announces Caroline de Maigret as the brand’s newest Global Explorer. In her role as a brand ambassador, de Maigret has collaborated with The Luxury Collection to produce A Night in Seville and the Morning After — a guide to her favorite places to stay, dine and discover published by Assouline. The book will also be accompanied by a digital series of city guides spotlighting Paris, Venice and Athens – all curated with favorite discoveries from de Maigret’s travels. A Night in Seville and the Morning After and the city guide series will launch this December in celebration of the opening of Hotel Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid – the portfolio’s just-opened property in the heart of the city’s exclusive Chamberí area in December 2021.

The Luxury Collection’s Global Explorer program celebrates the vibrancy of the world’s most enchanting destinations through the eyes of leading cultural voices. Representing a broad selection of creative endeavors, these personalities are united by a deep understanding of world cultures, while identifying travel experiences in their own personal way. Born in France, Caroline de Maigret has traveled the globe gracing the world’s stage from Milan to London to New York as a model, producer and fashion icon.

“Travel for me goes hand in hand with exploration and discovery. When on the road, meeting new people, finding a cool bar on the corner, a small exhibition with local treasures or the perfect hotel makes me feel so happy and alive,” said Caroline de Maigret. “I am thrilled to be able to collaborate with The Luxury Collection – a brand that I look to as a home away from home always in harmony with its setting – to share some of my favorite places in Seville and around the world.”

A Night in Seville and the Morning After is the ultimate guide to the perfect day in Seville as told by Caroline de Maigret. Published by Assouline and featuring 65 pages of beautiful photography and playful illustrations, de Maigret takes you from checking in at Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville to sightseeing at Catedral de Sevilla, lunch at El Pintón, hat shopping at Maquedano into a night on the town starting at Alameda de Hércules. Featuring four sections, the book is divided between de Maigret’s favorite restaurants, drinks, shopping and sights. As an added layer to the collaboration, de Maigret has also created a series of digital guides – Paris, Venice, Athens – that will launch with the pocket-sized book this December.

“We are delighted to welcome Caroline de Maigret as our latest Global Explorer. Her passionate curiosity and zest for discovery perfectly captures the spirit of The Luxury Collection brand as we all look to engage our passions and embark on a quest for fulfillment through travel,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “We are excited to collaborate with her on a beautiful book and digital series to celebrate our captivating portfolio in some of Europe’s most compelling destinations.”

Celebrating the latest addition to the brand’s portfolio in Europe, the guide and digital series will debut around the opening of Hotel Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid. Located in the exclusive Chamberí neighborhood, the 49-room boutique property is made up of three buildings inspired by Parisian palaces of the 19th century and a magnificent garden, all which served as the former residence of the Duke of Santo Mauro.

Caroline de Maigret will join the celebrated group of Luxury Collection Global Ambassadors who bring the portfolio to life for international travelers. The brand recently debuted the launch of its third collaboration with Global Explorer Margherita Maccapani Missoni – a limited-edition scarf inspired by her travels with The Luxury Collection in India—and a homeware line from Mercedes Salazar inspired by a visit to North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles. The Luxury Collection is dedicated to helping travelers from all over the world to embark on extraordinary journeys and one-of-a-kind experiences.

A Night in Seville and the Morning After by Caroline de Maigret will launch in December 2021 and will be available for purchase on www.luxurycollectionstore.com for $40 USD. The digital city guide series will be available at www.theluxurycollection.com.

About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of roughly 7,900 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 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.

About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection®, part of Marriott International, Inc., is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of nearly 120 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy™, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Press Contact
Meg Connolly Communications
luxurycollection@mcc-pr.com
212-505-8200

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Moxy Manchester City Is Here to Play as Spinningfields’ Newest Hotel and Hangout Opens

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Lobby at Moxy Manchester
Christopher BaKer

Moxy Hotels, the experiential hotel brand part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, has officially made its debut in Manchester with the launch of Moxy Manchester City. Located in the heart of the city’s vibrant Spinningfields, the contemporary neighbourhood hotel, which is operated by KE Hotels, is the perfect destination to make the most of Manchester’s energetic spirit, surrounded by the hottest restaurants and bars.

For the young at heart, Moxy Manchester City is the place to be for a playful staycation, offering affordable fun and endless adventure. The stylish hotel is a rising nine-storey build that’s clad in weathered-effect metal panels to give an urban contrast to the original façade that has been retained from the former hat factory.

Step into Bar Moxy – the social heart of the hotel, which also serves as the hotel’s front desk, where a ‘Got Moxy’ cocktail is served at check-in, alongside the room key. Bar Moxy and the social atrium space has a modern and industrial feel, with local-inspired artwork, curated Manchester-style illustrations and illuminated signs across the lobby. A foosball table, card games, board games and communal lockers are also featured in the 24/7 space. From brightly coloured pouffe seating, hidden corners, and laid-back sofas to seats at the urban-style wrap-around bar, there’s something for all occasions.

Featuring a light bites menu and vibrant cocktail, Bar Moxy will also have DJs playing every night to draw hotel guests out of their rooms and locals out of their homes. An extensive drinks menu of beers, spirits, wine, and cocktails are available. Moxy specials include Got Moxy: Gin, with Moxy syrup blend; a non-alcoholic Fauxy Moxy: Moxy syrup blend and chilled tea; and the star of the show, Disco Diva: the ultimate sharing cocktail served in a disco ball with vodka, vanilla, limoncello, citrus elderflower, pomegranate, and prosecco. There’s also a dedicated barista counter for a coffee fix, and Grab ‘n Go snacks and beverages available 24/7.

The 146 stylish and smartly designed bedrooms can be as productive or as playful as needed, featuring plush platform beds to a fun-size workspace and comfy lounge chairs. Moxy Manchester City rooms feature walk-in showers, TVs with Netflix, open-wall closets, and motion activated LED guidelights. Plus, they’re pet friendly, so pooches can come too.

Moxy crew members love doing it all and always think outside the box, offering an authentic experience and a whole load of fun. Designed with social media-lovers in mind, Moxy Manchester City is the first Manchester hotel to have a digital ‘Guestbook’ wall. The Guestbook streams photos, and videos that Moxy guests have shared to the social sphere. Moxy moments are shared on the wall, which constantly changes as the social feed is updated.

Moxy participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy members will earn points for their stay at Moxy Manchester City, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

To book your stay at Moxy Manchester city visit www.MoxyManchesterCity.com | @MoxyMcr #PlayON #AtTHEMOXY

Notes to Editors:

Media Contacts

Georgie Noble, Director, Consumer PR, EMEA
Marriott International
Georgie.noble@marriott.com

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

About Moxy Hotels®
Moxy offers a playful hotel experience for the young at heart. With more than 100 properties open across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, Moxy boldly breaks the rules of a conventional hotel stay across the globe. The nontraditional experience starts with check-in at Bar Moxy and comes to life throughout its social public spaces, like the Lounge and Library, and the small but smart bedrooms. Moxy provides stylish, industrial design and sociable service at an attractive price point, so that guests can splurge on the experiences that matter most to them during their travels. Moxy celebrates nonconformity, open-mindedness, and originality above all – forever giving its guests permission to Play On #atthemoxy. For more information, visit www.moxyhotels.com and join the fun #atthemoxy on Instagram. Moxy 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 KE Hotels
An independent boutique hotelier. KE Hotels are a small, independent hotel owner and operator with three properties in the UK. Their focus is on high quality, mixed-use services and excellent levels of customer satisfaction. The hotels operate under the world’s leading names in travel; as part of Marriott’s Tribute portfolio in Bath, Marriott’s Moxy brand in Manchester, and Best Western in Oxford. www.ke-hotels.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International to Debut over 30 New Luxury Hotels in 2022

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Marriott International to Debut over 30 New Luxury Hotels in 2022

Cannes, France, December 14, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / At the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in Cannes, Marriott International has announced that it will debut over thirty luxury hotels in 2022. Marriott Continues to redefine the high-end hospitality landscape and grow luxury footprint from New York City to Cairo to Sydney.

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

Through the world-renowned hospitality hallmarks of The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, W, The Luxury Collection, EDITION, JW Marriott and Bulgari, Marriott International continues to elevate travel, creating highly contextualized, distinct brand experiences that signal the future of luxury. With an unrivaled network of more than 460 landmark luxury hotels and resorts in 68 countries and territories today, Marriott International is poised to expand its luxury footprint with nearly 190 properties in the development pipeline, including the 30 hotels expected to open in 2022, in iconic as well as emerging destinations from Mexico to Portugal and Australia to South Korea.

“Our guests are seeking deeper, more immersive experiences that allow them to indulge in global exploration while sparking personal regeneration,” said Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President, Luxury Brands, Marriott International.

Luxury is Entering a New Era of Regeneration
A global luxury trends study conducted in collaboration with creative agency Team One revealed that today’s affluent travelers are shifting from a ‘box checking’ mindset to a ‘traveling well’ mindset, taking a more thoughtful, intentional approach to trip planning. Gabaldon observed, “As people reexamine and reprioritize what matters to them most, a shift that has accelerated over the past two years, we’re seeing a real embracing of deeper travel. Our guests are focusing more on where they travel and why they make the journey, seeking to foster a more meaningful connection to the destination as well as the people they meet.” With a truly global footprint, Marriott International is poised to meet this evolving set of aspirations, inviting people to view travel as a canvas for regeneration that leads to lasting positive impact on locals and destinations. “From the world’s most desirable destinations to undiscovered gems, we strive to go beyond offering moments of transformation for our guests and hope to create experiences that will inspire a newfound sense of personal wellbeing and joy,” said Gabaldon.

The Ritz-Carlton Continues to Define the Future of Luxury Hospitality
With a focus on destination-driven design and unparalleled service, The Ritz-Carlton continues to drive innovation and set the standard for luxury hospitality. In 2021 the brand was introduced in some of the world’s most coveted locales, including the Maldives, Turks & Caicos, and Mexico City. In 2022, the brand expects to expand in Arizona with The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie, as well as in New York City, debuting in the vibrant NoMad neighborhood, where guest rooms feature sweeping city views. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne is slated to grow the renowned brand’s footprint in Australia. Ritz-Carlton Reserve anticipates expanding its highly curated portfolio, debuting its sixth rare estate in the historic Chinese valley of Jiuzhaigou. In keeping with the brand’s forward-looking design aesthetic, The Ritz-Carlton Moscow, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, are all expected to celebrate major renovations in the year ahead. Additionally, the brand expects to mark the inaugural voyage of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection in May 2022.

St. Regis Celebrates Timeless Glamour in Coveted Global Hot Spots
Through its celebrated rituals, rich heritage, and glamorous spirit, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is blazing a path from iconic hospitality brand to a global luxury icon and in the year ahead expects to debut its 50th property. In 2021, the storied brand grew its footprint in the Middle East by introducing two properties each in Cairo and Dubai and, in the year ahead, anticipates further expanding the brand in the region with the opening of The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl in Qatar. In 2022, St. Regis is slated to debut in Chicago, with a Jeanne Gang designed building that has already become an exquisite new icon on the Windy City’s skyline, and the brand also expects to bring its bespoke service and avant-garde style to Belgrade. St. Regis continues to grow in leisure destinations, expecting to nearly double its number of resort properties over the next five years. This year saw the debut of The St. Regis Bermuda Resort, Marriott International’s first luxury property on the island and, in the year ahead, the brand anticipates marking the opening of The St. Regis Kanai Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, which will feature ocean views from nearly every vantage point. The St. Regis San Francisco also expects to celebrate the completion of a comprehensive renovation, debuting a sophisticated new look and feel in 2022.

W Hotels Reimagines Luxury & Sparks Imagination
In 2021, W Hotels brought its unique lens on luxury to destinations including Nashville, Osaka, Philadelphia, Melbourne, Xiamen, and Rome, where a 162-room hotel comprised of two 19th century palazzos marked the brand’s much-anticipated debut in Italy. With nearly 60 hotels around the globe, W is defined by detail-driven design, inspiring energy, a buzzing cocktail and dining culture, as well as elevated programming localized by destination. With a continuous focus on redefining and elevating the W experience, the brand is slated to open in exciting destinations next year including the Algarve, Sydney, Dubai and Toronto.

EDITION Continues Growth in Iconic Destinations Around the Globe
An unexpected and refreshing collection of one-of-a-kind hotels that redefine the concept of luxury, EDITION Hotels brought its personal and intimate hospitality experience to Reykjavik and Dubai in 2021. The in-demand brand, recently named the hottest in the world by Forbes, offers sophisticated design, a curated taste of the destination, and modern service. EDITION Hotels announces its anticipated further international expansion in 2022 with the slated opening of six new properties, including sites in Madrid, Rome, Doha, Tampa, Riviera Maya in Kanai, and Ginza, the second property in Tokyo. With 14 hotels worldwide currently, all firmly established within the luxury space, the brand is expected to reach a footprint of 20 properties globally by the end of 2022.

The Luxury Collection Inspires Transformational Travel in New Destinations
With hotels that truly define their destination, The Luxury Collection is a growing ensemble of nearly 120 hotels in more than 40 countries and territories around the world. In 2021, the brand made its debut in Hungary with the opening of the transformed UNESCO world heritage site Matild Palace in Budapest, expanded its footprint in North America, brought elevated alpine interiors and Rocky Mountain vibrancy to Vail through The Hythe, and showcased distinct, heritage-inspired design in South Korea with the opening of Josun Palace. With each hotel offering unique experiences and serving as a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms, The Luxury Collection is slated to debut properties next year in captivating locations that span the globe, including Spain, India, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Tbilisi, Georgia.

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

JW Marriott Celebrates the Passions of its Guests through Well-Being Experiences
Inspired by its legendary namesake and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott celebrated recent openings in Charlotte, Monterrey, Shanghai and Tampa. With over 100 properties in more than 35 countries and territories, JW Marriott offers a legacy of exceptional service and is committed to delivering experiences and environments that encourage guests to be fully present and foster meaningful connections. In the coming year, JW Marriott anticipates continuing to cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who seek a balance in mind, body and spirit with new openings in destinations from Cairo to Istanbul, and Mexico to Jeju Island, South Korea.

About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of roughly 7,900 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 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.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui launches its Christmas Countdown

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Hyatt Regency Koh Samui launches its Christmas Countdown - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, December 13, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / There are multiple reasons to rejoice this festive period at Hyatt Regency Koh Samui as the acclaimed new property unveils a packed schedule of seasonal events.

Countdown to Chrtistmas gets underway on 11 December with a special tree lighting ceremony with sunset cocktails and canapes. And the subsequent weeks until the turn of the new year are filled with eye-catching parties, lavish dining events and plentiful diversion for adults and children alike.

The resort, which is located in North Chaweng — and is less than ten minutes from Koh Samui’s international airport—has been an instant hit with guests since opening in July. Thus far, the resort has largely been limited to clients based in Thailand. But with the Kingdom now open to international travellers, the property is witnessing an uptick in bookings for the months ahead.

All the more reason to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

“We are looking forward to the future with optimism and what better way to bring the year to an uplifting end than to mark it with a series of special festive activities,” said Hyatt Regency Koh Samui general manager Adrian Pulido.

To that purpose, the resort has planned a series of festive activities guaranteed to put guests in a party mood.

The property incorporates around 80 native Yang Na trees (Dipterocarpus alatus) that were once used by sailors and fishermen as navigational landmarks. One of these, the highest, will be the site for a tree lighting ceremony where a live saxophonist will provide the soundtrack for cocktails and canapes.

Enjoying great food and drink is one of the cornerstones of the festive season. And gastronomes will find plenty to savour on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

A Christmas Eve dinner at SESUN, the resort’s buzzing beachfront grill, features a sumptuous BBQ buffet as well as a live band and a fire show. The action shifts to the resort’s main restaurant, Yangna Cuisine, on Christmas Day, which will host a multi-cuisine banquet encompassing traditional festive favourites, Japanese cuisine, fresh seafood and risotto in a cheese wheel.

For New Year’s Eve, Yangna Cuisine hosts a barbecue gala dinner with a live band. The culmination of the festive program, meanwhile, takes place back at SESUN where DJs, live performers and a fireworks display will see out 2021 and usher in 2022 at a lavish countdown party.

The resort has also curated a range of supplementary events over the festive period. These include Christmas cupcake decoration for families, a cocktail-making class and omakase festive cocktails at Kube bar and an appearance by the man himself — Santa Claus — at the resort’s beach pool on Christmas Day.

To make a reservation or for more information contact T +66 77 448 777

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News