Global Travel News

Best Western Signs Two New Projects in Vietnam’s Beachfront Paradise

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Best Western Signs Two New Projects in Vietnam’s Beachfront Paradise - TRAVELINDEXHo Tram, Vietnam, January 8, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts breaks new ground in Vietnam with the signing of an exciting two new projects in Ho Tram, the vibrant beachfront resort area just 110km from Ho Chi Minh City, which is set to redefine the regions tourism and hospitality industry.

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Best Western Hotels & Resorts has joined with Thien Binh Minh Joint Stock Company, a subsidiary of the Charm Group, the highly respected real estate company, to introduce two new Best Western branded properties to this dynamic destination. Charm Resort Ho Tram, BW Premier Collection by Best Western and Charm Resort Ho Tram, BW Signature Collection by Best Western will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2024, comprising more than 1,000 rooms, suites and villas – across two properties – all in a prime seafront setting. Together, these world-class resorts will cater to all types of travelers, including couples, families, friends and groups.

This important agreement marks another key phase of Best Western Hotels & Resorts targeted expansion strategy in Vietnam, identified as one of the most attractive markets in Asia – and the world.

Charm Resort Ho Tram, BW Premier Collection by Best Western will offer 458 upscale rooms and suites plus 90 luxurious villas, amid a landscape of lush gardens just steps from the sandy shore. Lifestyle-conscious guests will enjoy upmarket amenities and impeccable service, all influenced by local style and sophistication, in line with the high standards of the BW Premier Collection® brand.

Charm Resort Ho Tram, BW Signature Collection by Best Western will feature 470 rooms and suites with unique design, wrapped in an enchanting ambiance of tropical gardens, swaying palms and sparkling pools. BW Signature Collection® is dedicated to creating truly unique experiences that reflect the personality of their destination. Guests can expect warm, welcoming service and modern amenities.

Together, these two properties will offer a wide range of accommodations for international and domestic guests seeking stylish stays on the serene coastline of southeast Vietnam. When they are not unwinding on the beach, travelers can take advantage of many fantastic attractions in and around Ho Tram, including traditional fishing villages, temples, hot springs, golf courses and more. Ho Chi Minh City and Tan Son Nhat International Airport are just a short drive away, making the destination easily accessible.

Cyrill Czerwonka, Best Western Hotels & Resorts Senior Regional Director of Development – Asia, said: “We are delighted to be part of this landmark project, which will enhance Charm Groups status in the global hospitality sector, elevate the Vietnamese tourism industry, and strengthen Best Westerns upscale and luxury portfolio in this important Asian market.” He added, “Our new BW Signature Collection resort will provide home-away-from-home comfort and value, while the BW Premier Collection branded property will showcase authentic boutique hospitality, with premium rooms and suites plus 90 private villas that will attract discerning guests and honeymooners. We look forward to working closely with Charm Group as we bring this spectacular development to life.”

Book your hotel in Ho Tram Vietnam and worldwide at HotelWorlds.com – Pay at the hotel and earn HolidayClick Points. Book now at HotelWorlds.com!

This signing marks the latest phase of Best Western Hotels & Resorts expansion strategy in Vietnam. With four high-end hotels and resorts now operating, 16 new properties signed and ongoing discussions for more, including several in partnership with some of Vietnams most highly regarded real estate companies, the group is targeting over 20 branded hotels and resorts to be operational by the end of 2024.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Qatar Executive Takes Delivery of Three Gulfstream G650ERs

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Qatar Executive Takes Delivery of Three Gulfstream G650ERs - EXEJET.com - TRAVELINDEXDoha, Qatar, January 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Qatar Executive is excited to announce it has taken delivery of a further three Gulfstream G650ER aircraft, reaffirming its position as the largest owner-operator of the ultramodern jet, with a total of 11 in its fleet. All three aircraft will operate on strategic ultra-long-haul routes to Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe. Latest delivery brings the total number of Gulfstream G650ER aircraft in the private jet charter division fleet to 11.

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Qatar Executive is also scheduled to take delivery of its twelfth Gulfstream G650ER before the end of 2021. The aircraft is one of the most coveted jets among the global travelling elite due to its remarkable range capabilities, industry-leading cabin technology, fuel efficiency and unparalleled passenger comfort. The state-of-the-art aircraft can fly at a faster speed for longer distances than any other jet of its kind, with its incredible 7,500 nautical mile range.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, we continue to invest in our fleet, operating the youngest, most fuel-efficient and technologically-advanced aircraft in the skies.

“We are excited to have taken delivery of three brand-new Gulfstream G650ERs and look forward to receiving our twelfth of the aircraft type in a couple of weeks, allowing us to meet growing demand, especially during the New Year period. This strategic investment in sustainable twin-engine jets has enabled us to continue flying during these challenging times. As global travel recovers, our customers can rely on us to fly greener and smarter.”

Qatar Executive’s G650ER aircraft can operate non-stop from Doha to New York in approximately 13 hours and from Doha to Seoul in just over eight hours. Flying faster and further than any business jet, the G650ER is ideally suited for those whose travel needs include flights halfway around the globe. Gulfstream’s innovative, clean-wing designs deliver a combination of record-breaking speed and range, exceptional comfort and better aerodynamic efficiency for a smaller carbon footprint.

Last month, Qatar Executive took an aircraft delivery flight, using drop-in certified Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), establishing another milestone for Qatar Airways Group and reaffirming its leadership to fly one of the most advanced fleets in the sky. As the global launch customer, Qatar Executive is excited for its planned deliveries of the brand-new Gulfstream G700 aircraft, which are capable of operating using 100 per cent SAF.

In August 2021, the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group showcased the world’s first Gulfstream G700 in Doha, Qatar. Equipped with the all-new Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and an advanced high-speed wing design, the G700 is able to fly at record-breaking speed and range with outstanding environmental efficiency, promoting sustainable business aviation. The G700 will be the latest addition to Qatar Executive’s state-of-the-art fleet of long-range and ultra-long-range aircraft. The executive charter service provider has ordered 10 of the world’s largest business jets and will take delivery of the very first aircraft off the Gulfstream assembly line in Georgia, U.S., in 2022.

In addition to the Gulfstream G650ERs, Qatar Executive’s fleet includes three Bombardier Global 5000s, one Bombardier Global XRS, one Airbus A319ACJ and another Airbus A319 Air Ambulance aircraft, making the current fleet 17 strong.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the average monthly block hours reserved in Qatar Executive grew by 76 per cent year-over-year and the booking enquiries increased by more than a 100 per cent. This sharp growth came as a result of the new strategies implemented by Qatar Executive, which includes offering tailored flight hour packages to suit customer requirements.

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Qatar Executive remained agile, innovative and resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on its fundamental mission of taking people home safely and swiftly. Despite COVID-19 having a negative impact on the aviation industry and the business witnessing a global decline of approximately 48 per cent in block hours and flights in the ultra-long-range market, Qatar Executive stepped up to the challenge and used the pandemic as an opportunity to introduce operational and commercial changes that would minimise the business impact, while maintaining the same levels of luxury to which its customers are accustomed.

About Qatar Executive
Qatar Executive is the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group. Luxury jet services are available for worldwide charter on board the operator’s wholly-owned business jet fleet. Qatar Executive is the launch customer for Gulfstream’s G700, the world’s first commercial service operator of the Gulfstream G500 and largest commercial operator of the G650ER worldwide. Qatar Executive’s service portfolio also includes aircraft management, maintenance and Fixed Based Operator services.

About Qatar Airways
A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was recently announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ at the 2021 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. It was also named ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering’ and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. The airline continues to stand alone at the top of the industry having won the main prize for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021).

Hamad International Airport (HIA), the airline’s home and hub, was recently announced as the ‘World’s Best Airport’ in the Skytrax 2021 World Airport Awards. HIA has been steadily rising in the ‘World’s Best Airports’ rankings since the start of its operations in 2014.

Qsuite, a patented Qatar Airways product, features the industry’s first-ever double bed in Business Class, as well as privacy panels that stow away, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room, a first of its kind in the industry.

Qatar Airways was the first Gulf carrier to join global airline alliance oneworld, enabling its passengers to benefit from more than 1,000 airports in more than 160 countries, with 14,250 daily departures.

Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ in-flight entertainment system offers passengers up to 4,000 entertainment options from the latest blockbuster movies, TV box sets, music, games and much more. Passengers flying on Qatar Airways flights served by its B787, B777, A350, A319 and select A320 and A330 aircraft can also stay in touch with their friends and family around the world by using the award-winning airline’s on-board Wi-Fi and GSM service.

Qatar Airways proudly supports a range of exciting international and local initiatives dedicated to enriching the global community that it serves. Qatar Airways, the official FIFA partner, is the official sponsor of many top-level sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, reflecting the values of sports as a means of bringing people together, something at the core of the airline’s own brand message – Going Places Together.

Qatar Airways Cargo, one of the world’s leading international air cargo carriers, serves more than 60 freighter destinations worldwide via its world-class Doha hub and also delivers freight in the belly-hold deck of passenger aircraft to an extensive network. The Qatar Airways Cargo fleet includes two Boeing 747-8 freighters, 26 Boeing 777 freighters and six B777-300ER mini freighters.

Qatar Executive is the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group. Luxury jet services are available for worldwide charter on board the operator’s wholly-owned business jet fleet. Qatar Executive is the launch customer for Gulfstream’s G700, the world’s first commercial service operator of the Gulfstream G500 and largest commercial operator of the G650ER worldwide. Qatar Executive’s service portfolio also includes aircraft management, maintenance and Fixed Based Operator services.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Signs Agreement to Bring JW Marriott Brand to São Paulo

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Marriott International, Inc. today announced that it has signed an agreement to debut JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo in Parque da Cidade, a Class A, LEED-certified mixed-use complex located in one of the city’s main and burgeoning business districts. JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo will be converted from an existing luxury property and is anticipated to serve as Marriott International’s first luxury hotel in São Paulo. The hotel is expected to open in Q2 2022.

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Strategically located along Avenida Nações Unidas within proximity to major business and exclusive entertainment areas in the city, JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo is expected to feature 258 spacious, well-appointed guestrooms, a full-service restaurant, a lounge/bar, a luxurious spa with five treatment rooms, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and other high-end amenities. In addition, the hotel will offer six meeting spaces totaling more than 1,000m², making it a prime destination for business meetings and conferences.

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The growing presence of global companies in the area has fueled corporate demand for hotels and continues to position Parque da Cidade and São Paulo as a major global and tourism hub, which will be further bolstered by iconic brands such as JW Marriott.

“We are thrilled to continue expanding our long-standing presence in Brazil in the luxury segment and with one of our flagship brands,” said Bojan Kumer, Regional Vice President, Marriott International. “Brazil is a key and strategic market in our portfolio and today’s signing further underscores our growth commitment to the country. We look forward to positioning JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo as the leading luxury hotel in the city and country.”

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. Rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo aims to be an oasis in this bustling city, designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. The property is set to redefine the concept of luxury in the powerful commercial and cultural center of South America, where world-class service meets local culture and lush green spaces.

Marriott International currently operates 11 properties in Brazil and over 300 across the Caribbean and Latin America region.

About Marriott International
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 JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott 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.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Barbados Newest Luxury All-Inclusive Retreat

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Barbados Newest Luxury All-Inclusive Retreat

Saint Lawrence Gap, Barbados, January 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The O2 Beach Club and Spa is a five-star, all-inclusive luxury boutique resort located on the island’s beautiful southern coast. Escape to a chic, tropical paradise set on a 1,000 feet of powder white beach fringing the glistening turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The O2 Beach Club and Spa offers unparalleled comfort and personalized service throughout your stay. Unwind in luxuriously appointed guest rooms, suites, and residences featuring contemporary design and upgraded amenities.

With a host of dining, wellness, and relaxation options, our island haven provides the perfect setting for an indulgent Barbados holiday. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like the newest VIP member of the coolest new beach club in Barbados.

Relax in any of the luxurious guest rooms, suites or residences all featuring contemporary décor and upgraded amenities. With almost every room offering a breathtaking view you’ll truly be spoilt for choice.

The resort features 130 luxurious rooms and suites, and guests can choose between three different service offerings, or “Collections”: Club, Luxury, and Concierge. Club Collection rooms are the resort’s standard offering with the option of king or twin beds. The adults only Luxury Collection includes ocean view and oceanfront suites, as well as swim-up rooms that access the resort’s adult-only river pool and swim-up bar.

Relax in any of our 130 guest rooms, suites or residences all featuring contemporary décor and upgraded amenities. With almost every room offering a breathtaking view you’ll truly be spoilt for choice.

All guests have access to the resort’s three scenic pools, including one of the only rooftop pools in Barbados. For the ultimate relaxation, guests can visit the Acqua spa with treatments that focus on healing through water. The spa also boasts the only Hammam room on the island.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aman Luxury Hotel New York to Open in 2022

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Aman Luxury Hotel New York to Open in 2022

New York City, New York, United States, January 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Aman New York is set to open on 57th Street in the Crown Building. It’s a new life for the landmark, built by the same architects as Grand Central Terminal and the Hemsley building which turned 100 in 2021.

Aman will unveils a new urban sanctuary with the rebirth of an architectural icon at the heart of Manhattan. Since 1921, the Crown Building has presided over the midpoint of Manhattan; the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, overlooking Central Park. Rising 26 storeys from the boutique-lined street, the building’s windows and terraces look out over the vast sweep of parkland and survey the world’s most recognisable skyline.

The rooms at the Aman are set to be stark yet spectacular: there’s a reason that the brand, with its Asian-Scandanavian minimalist sensibilities, is a haven for well-heeled—and often celebrity— travelers. But it will still have a dash of New York energy: there’s a jazz club, and each room will have a functioning fireplace.

Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, Aman New York celebrates Aman’s philosophy of creating sanctuaries beyond commonplace notions of luxury, whilst paying homage to the building’s striking architecture and significant history.

Aman New York will consist of 83 hotel rooms, as well as restaurants, a Garden Terrace & Bar with 7000 square feet of outdoor dining space, private members club, three-floor Aman Spa, Jazz Club and Wine Room.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC and UKinbound Praise Removal of Pre-Departure Test

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WTTC and UKinbound Praise Removal of Pre-Departure Test

London, United Kingdom, January 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and UKinbound have welcomed the government’s decision to remove pre-departure tests for travellers and replace damaging Day 2 PCR testing with antigen tests

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The removal of pre-departure tests and replacing Day 2 PCRs with more affordable antigen testing will significantly boost the UK Travel & Tourism sector and help both it and the whole UK economy recover much faster than expected.

“The testing measures being removed never actually stopped infections coming in and were a blunt policy which only damaged the travel and tourism sector.”

Joss Croft, CEO, UKinbound said “The industry will be very pleased to see the removal of onerous pre-departure testing, and the replacement of the day 2 PCR test with a lateral flow test.

“However, this is not job done. January to March is a key booking period for inbound travel and if we are to ensure the successful revival of the UK’s valuable inbound tourism industry, our 5th largest export sector, worth £28 billion to the UK economy in 2019, then the government needs to provide a clear roadmap for the removal of all travel restrictions and to signal that the UK will be fully open for business.”

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hello 2022! Special Offer, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit

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Hello 2022! Special Offer, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / See Bangkok from a new perspective. Welcome the new year with our special offer at only THB 2022 net per room per night.

Available to book now until 15 January and enjoy your stay within March 2022.

This outstanding room rate includes the following:
• 1-night stay in a Deluxe Room (room only)
• Daily buffet breakfast price of THB 490 net per person (usually THB 695 net)
• Special Extra bed price at THB 700 net per night (room only)
• Full flexibility on rescheduling or cancellation up to hours prior to arrival

For booking and further information, please call +66 2 090 7888

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Corona Island Eco-Friendly Luxury Resort to Open in 2022

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Corona Island Eco-Friendly Luxury Resort to Open in 2022 - TRAVELINDEXCaribbean, Mexico, January 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Corona Island is a paradise in the middle of the Caribbean, where architecture blends in with the natural landscape. Imagine a place where you can enjoy unique experiences that will connect you with nature. An island where you can be part of the Earth’s rhythm, learning about what comes from the sea and sun. Here, you’ll see the most impressive sunsets and celebrate them in Corona style.

Corona Island will only host a small number of guests at a time in order to preserve the island’s low ecological impact, and there won’t be a lot of ways for travelers to win access to this promising destination.

Corona Beer announced Corona Island, a unique destination for visitors to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the natural world. Slated to open in late Spring 2022 in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Corona Island will be a magical destination centered around sustainability and is striving to become “Blue Verified” by Oceanic Global as part of the international NGO’s rigorous Blue Standard program. The verification and assessment addresses measures including: single-use plastic elimination and implementation of responsible waste management infrastructure. The assessment is currently underway with Corona Island set to become the first fully Blue Verified Island by its launch in spring of next year.

Corona Island has partnered with non-profit Oceanic Global to ensure Corona Island operates with a minimal environmental footprint. Corona Island is working to achieve Oceanic Global’s Blue Standard to verify the Island’s efforts to eliminate single-use plastics and adopt responsible practices that work in harmony with the natural world.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SAii Phi Phi Island Village Inspires Next Generation of Marine Conservationists

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SAii Phi Phi Island Village Inspires Next Generation of Marine Conservationists - TRAVELINDEXPhi Phi Island, Thailand, January 4, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / SAii Phi Phi Island Village, the free-spirited five-star resort on the pristine Thai island of Koh Phi Phi, is celebrating the launch of another important environmental project by inviting eco-conscious families to experience immersive escapes that will inspire young minds and educate all ages about the critical issue of marine conservation.

• Discover amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – Amazing Chapters

In November 2021, the resident marine biologist at SAii Phi Phi Island Village launched “SOS” (Save Our Sharks), an exciting new conservation project that will see the resort work hand-in-hand with experts from the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC) to take care of bamboo sharks. From the incubation of eggs and larval rearing, to releasing the juveniles back into their natural habitat, this initiative will help to conserve this important species and boost the health of ocean ecosystems in the long-term.

This is the latest in a series of campaigns initiated by the Marine Discovery Centre, an innovative facility which serves as the nerve centre of SAii Phi Phi Island Village’s environmental efforts. This interactive hub houses indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, video rooms and aquariums, presenting a fascinating window into the underwater world and driving key projects such as coral propagation, mangrove planting, and breeding and release programmes for native species, including clownfish.

To celebrate the launch of SOS, SAii Phi Phi Island Village has created a new package that allows Thai and expat “inSAiiders” – including curious young explorers and budding marine biologists – to experience an engaging island adventure, with plenty of family-friendly activities and excursions into the mesmerising marine park.

Available for bookings made before 23rd December 2021, the “Marine Discoveries” package allows loved ones to stay together in style, with free accommodation and meals for up to two children aged 12 and under*. Guests will also be treated to a tour of the Marine Discovery Centre and an introduction to the SOS programme, plus a half-day longtail boat trip around the island and complimentary use of the fitness facilities, tennis court and non-motorised water sports, such as stand-up paddle-boarding and ocean kayaking. All guests will also enjoy daily breakfast, and a 25% discount on food, beverages and spa treatments throughout their stay.

Rates start from just THB 6,750 net per room per night, based on a Superior Garden Bungalow, and a minimum two-night stay is required. Other options include the Deluxe Sea View Bungalow (THB 8,000 net), Beachfront Junior Suite (THB 14,000 net), One-Bedroom Hillside Pool Villa (THB 18,000 net), Two-Bedroom Family Bungalow (THB 19,000 net) and the spectacular Two-Bedroom Hillside Pool Villa (THB 26,000 net). See package details here.

“Young people today care passionately about the environment and want to take positive action to help save the planet. At SAii Phi Phi Island Village, we can help them make a difference. Our Marine Discovery Centre provides a fascinating window into the underwater world; from keeping the beach clean to caring for baby sharks, we let our young inSAiiders play an active role in conservation, giving them a sense of achievement and perhaps even inspiring the next generation of conservationists and marine biologists,” said Nantiphat Saechao, Marine Biologist, SAii Phi Phi Island Village.

“We are also excited to unveil the SOS project, in partnership with the Phuket Marine Biological Center. Bamboo sharks are classed as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), so this breeding and release programme will play a crucial role in protecting such an important species. We look forward to welcoming families to our resort in the coming weeks,” he added.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village is the Thai flagship property in the SAii Resorts portfolio, featuring a collection of spacious bungalows, suites and villas, five-star facilities and fresh brand concepts such as Mr. Tomyam, a casual poolside Thai fusion restaurant, Lèn Be Well, a standalone hillside spa, and M.I.Y Aroma Lab, where guests can create their own natural bathroom products. With its personalised approach and eco-sensitive ethos, this outstanding resort is ready to create truly immersive journeys for experience-seeking guests from around the world.

SAii Resorts is the free-spirited five-star lifestyle brand from S Hotels and Resorts PCL, the global hospitality company from Singha Estate PCL.

* Children stay for free in existing bedding, when sharing a room with their parents, and dine for free from the kids’ menu, when accompanied by an adult ordering from the regular menu.

• Discover amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – Amazing Chapters

About SAii Phi Phi Island Village
SAii Phi Phi Island Village is a free-spirited five-star resort nestled in 70 acres of lush tropical gardens with an 800-metre stretch of powder-soft beach on the pristine Thai island of Koh Phi Phi Don. The flagship of the SAii Resorts portfolio, this exclusive hideaway features a collection of 201 contemporary bungalows, spacious suites and luxurious Hillside Pool Villas, with intuitive services empowered by the SAii App. Guests can unwind with full-service facilities including freeform pools, signature restaurants, a watersports & dive centre, kids’ club, Lèn Be Well spa, and the Marine Discovery Centre, an innovative and interactive conservation hub. Amid a paradise of swaying coconut palms and fragrant gardens overlooking the azure Andaman Sea, SAii Phi Phi Island Village blends intimacy and luxury with a spirit of discovery.

About S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited
S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited, the hospitality arm of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a fast-growing, Thai-inspired company with an extensive international portfolio and world-class standards. Specialising in the management and investment of high-quality hotels and resorts in desirable destinations across the globe, S Hotels & Resorts has created a collection of its own distinctive lifestyle brands, whilst also partnering with the hospitality industry’s leading names. The company aims to set new standards for leisure and lifestyle through diversified business platforms and to enhance value for all its stakeholders based upon a philosophy of sustainable development and delivering benefits to local communities.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HAPPY TRAILS: Ancient Bhutan Trail to re-open after 60 years

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The Kingdom of Bhutan is set to reopen the historic and sacred Trans Bhutan Trail for the first time in 60 years with Toronto-based G Adventures designated as an official launch partner. Such is the import of the occasion that the King of Bhutan will officially inaugurate the Trail, fulfilling a vision to restore the ancient route for tourism, adventure, and connection, and based on the Kingdom’s core principles of sustainability and sustainable tourism

Spanning 403 km across the country, which is perched in the Himalayas between India and China, the Trail was part of the ancient Silk Road, used by pilgrims, armies, and traders for thousands of years; and until the 1960s, it was the only way to travel across the country.

Official records can be traced to the 16th century when the Trail was the only route between the east and west of the country, connecting fortresses – or Dzongs – deep in the remote eastern Himalayas. It also served as the pilgrimage route for Buddhists in the east to travel to sacred sites in western Bhutan and Tibet, and legendary Garps – trail runners – would travel the trail at great speed by foot with mail and important messages, often making their journeys without food or water.

When construction of a national highway began across Bhutan in the 1960s, the trail’s ancient stairways and footpaths gradually fell into disrepair.

Extensive restoration work began two years ago in preparation for this spring’s opening and last March a team of surveyors began clearing jungles, fording rivers and reconstructing bridges to their former glory, at the same time re-connecting with local communities, which provided hospitality and assistance, even as Bhutan and the world were enveloped in the emerging COVID crisis.

The Bhutan Canada Foundation, the non-profit that led the restoration of the trail, named Toronto-based G Adventures as the first group adventure operator when the trail launches to the public. (Visitors to Bhutan may only do so through a sanctioned tour operator).

Sam Blyth, chair of Foundation and lead donor for the Trans Bhutan Trail, said G Adventures, which has been operating tours in the Himalayan nation for the past decade, was an obvious partner to help relaunch the trail given the company’s long history and success running small group tours and giving back to destinations through its commitment to community tourism.

“As well as providing income opportunities for local people, especially youth, in rural communities, the restoration of the trail is a community-based project designed to preserve an ancient cultural icon and provide a sustainable experience for travellers,” Blyth says.

“Economic benefit will flow directly into the local communities as a result of community tourism, whether via homestays, the purchase of supplies locally for multi-day trips, or the employment of local guides.

“Spanning the world’s only carbon negative country, the Trans Bhutan Trail also reflects the country’s philosophy of ‘Gross National Happiness’ and enables the children of Bhutan to continue to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors. It’s our vision that one day the Trans Bhutan Trail will be considered one of the great walks of the world.”

Punakha Dzong

Starting in May, G Adventures will offer two active trekking itineraries along the route: the 11-day “Camp the Trans Bhutan Trail” trip, which features camping and homestays, and a 12-day “Highlights of the Trans Bhutan Trail” itinerary with accommodation in homestays, locally owned guest houses, and hotels. Both packages include necessary Trail permits.

Company VP Yves Marceau says the tours will focus on trekking specially selected parts of the 403-km route and connecting with local people to learn about Bhutanese life and culture, thus combining active travel and cultural immersion with the benefits of community tourism.

Participants will hike for three to four hours a day through forests and meadows and travel through rural settlements around the Dzongs, and enjoy local meals each night, whether they are camping or staying in homestays, hotels or local guest houses.

“Trails have historically connected remote communities and helped distribute much-needed income to local people as travellers move across the landscape,” Marceau says. “In today’s world, the pandemic has encouraged people to spend more time in nature and now they are looking for similar experiences when they travel.”

It is expected that Bhutan’s borders will reopen to tourism ahead of the Trans Bhutan Trail’s official opening ceremony in March.

For more information on the Trans Bhutan Trail, click https://www.transbhutantrail.bt

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News