Global Travel News

Luxury Hotels in Vietnam Offer Exclusive Day Passes

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Azerai La Residence, Hue – In Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Azerai La Residence, Hue is offering all-inclusive day passes featuring complimentary use of a Superior Standard Room from 8am until 9pm, along with access to the hotel’s world-class facilities and beautiful gardens. The saltwater swimming pool overlooks the fabled Perfume River and beyond to some of Hue’s most popular historic sites, including the citadel and the iconic Hue flagpole. Day passes also include access to the hotel’s luxury sauna and steam bath, and the modern fitness center featuring the latest in cardiovascular and strength-training equipment. Other benefits include an exclusive six-course set lunch menu at Le Parfum restaurant, a luxury high tea service, and a 25 percent discount on all spa, food, and beverage services. Day passes for two people are priced at VND 1,950,000 Net. The additional cost for an overnight stay is VND 1,000,000. Azerai operates in accordance with the most current guidelines from local government and health authorities.

Alma
Alma Resort is offering day passes affording locals and expats access to its infinity swimming pools, 6000 square meter water park and stretch of Long Beach as well as food and beverage vouchers. Priced at 650,000 VND (USD 28.40) and 750,000 (USD 32.80), the 30-hectare resort’s family day passes for two adults and two children aged under 12 years feature a food and beverage voucher of 350,000 VND (USD 15.30) and 550,000 VND (USD 24) respectively for use at all of the resort’s dining outlets including Alma Food Court with an array of eateries. The family pass also includes complimentary access to Splash Water Park, home to water slides, a lazy river, wave pool and kid’s pool, as well as to the resort’s cascade of 12 beachfront swimming pools, kid’s club, and the beach. Breakfast day passes priced at 280,000 VND (USD 12.25) per adult and 140,000 (USD 6.12) per child include buffet breakfast at Alma Garden and access to Alma’s infinity pools and kid’s club. Meanwhile, access to Splash Water Park costs 160,000 VND per adult (USD 7) and 100,000 VND (USD 4.38) per child. Alma has a host of stringent health and safety measures in place to combat COVID-19. For further information, call (+84) 258 399 1666.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi offers day passes allowing guests in Hanoi access to a Premium room for the day, along with Wifi connectivity and access to the hotel’s swimming pool in the garden courtyard and luxury SoFIT by Sofitel gym. The fitness center offers a range of Life Fitness bikes, Lifestride advanced cardiovascular equipment, elliptical bikes, step machines and more. (Please note that some services may be temporarily suspended due to occasional social distancing restrictions imposed by the government.) Premium rooms are located in the contemporary Opera Wing and feature neo-classical interior décor, flatscreen televisions, premium bathroom amenities and a choice of queen or twin-size bedding. Day passes are priced at USD $80++/room/day (Accor Plus members receive 10% off) and include room usage for up to six hours. Day passes can be used between 8am and 8pm. The offer includes a credit of $65 net per booking to spend at hotel restaurants and bars or room service. Higher room categories are also available with normal supplemental charges. For more information call +84 24 3826 6919.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Annual Report on China’s Outbound Tourism Development 2021 Released

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Annual Report on China’s Outbound Tourism Development 2021 Released

Beijing, China, November 25, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / On Nov. 22, China Tourism Academy released the “Annual Report on China’s Outbound Tourism Development 2021.” The Report was namely released by Dr. Jingsong Yang, Director of the Institute of International Studies (the Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Research Institute.) Here are some key points:

In 2020, China’s outbound tourist trips totaled 20.334 million, a decrease of 86.9% compared to 2019. In February 2020, outbound travel number dropped dramatically to less than 600,000 from over 10 million in January. The outbound group tours came to a complete stop. Outbound tourist trips for 2021 are projected to reach 25.62 million, an increase of 27% from 2020. Compared to the large scale of over 100 million outbound travelers prior to the pandemic, China’s outbound tourism basically remains at a standstill.

Asia continued to be the top destination with 95.45% visitations by Chinese travelers, followed by Europe, the Americas, Oceania, and Africa. Overall, trips to those continents decreased by 70% to 95%, with Asia taking the smallest decrease and Oceania the biggest decrease. Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and Chinese Taipei remained as the most visited destinations, accounting for more than 80% of visits.

The top 15 destinations were Macau SAR, Hong Kong SAR, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, the U.S., Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, the U.K., Australia, Canada and Indonesia, with a decrease ranging from 66% to 98%. Travel to Macau SAR showed an obvious recovery.

The survey shows that safety, short-distance, and companionship are the focal points for outbound travel. 82.8% of respondents would travel to a destination where there are no longer COVID infections. Respondents are more inclined to avoid crowded destinations. 81.6% indicate that for a while, they would opt for domestic travel rather than outbound travel. 71.7% are reluctant to travel abroad by air due to the COVID infection uncertainties.

For outbound travel, the majority of the respondents would rely on social media and travel websites, only 25.08% would use tour operators, which shows a decrease of 37.79% compared to 2019. Most respondents choose “travel with entire family” and “travel with partial family,” and fewer choose “travel alone” and “travel with strangers.” As to travel duration, less than 10% choose more than 15 days and more than 60% plan for 1 to 7 days, of which nearly 50% choose 4 to 7 days.

Outbound tourism continues to be affected by the global pandemic, and both international and Chinese domestic situations are still unstable. In the future, public health control measures will likely become normalized, and Chinese outbound tourists will desire better safety and health protection. The outbound tourism industry is adapting to a new normal through technological innovations and improvements, including vaccinations, rapid PCR testing, digital health codes, etc. Additionally, 5G, Big Data, A.I., etc., are being integrated into the tourism industry practices, which would positively aid outbound tourism in the future.

The Report states that the Chinese citizens still have a desire for outbound travel, supported by the large population base, urbanization, and better economic conditions. The Report also contains a section outlining the industry’s efforts/innovation in transitioning from outbound tourism to domestic tourism to meet the market demand. The final section of the Report includes an analysis of the 2022 outlook.

(Note: This is an unofficial summary in English and serves as a reference only. Please refer to the official Chinese document for precise wording and meaning.)

About Haybina Hao
Haybina is former Regional Director – Greater China for World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC, headquartered in London). Previously she also served as V.P. International Development for National Tour Association based in the U.S. She is an expert on China outbound tourism and has worked extensively with the Greater China travel trade, tourism organizations and governmental agencies. She is currently an international travel industry reporter and has been reporting in both Chinese and English. Linkedin

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Honda LPGA Thailand 2022 Leading Golf Event in Thailand to Tee-Off in March

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Honda LPGA Thailand 2022 Leading Golf Event in Thailand to Tee-Off in March

Pattaya, Thailand, November 25, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Honda in partnership with IMG, announced today that the leading women’s golf tournament and sports event in Thailand, the Honda LPGA Thailand 2022, will return in celebration of its 15th anniversary. The tournament is set to come home to Siam Country Club Old Course, Pattaya Chonburi Province from March 10th -13th, 2022. The top-ranking female golfers from around the world are geared up toconquer the course as they compete for a purse of $1.6 million USD (an approximate 53 million Baht). In celebration of a memorable 15 years and to commemorate this milestone, the Honda LPGA Thailand 2022 has also unveiled an exclusive 15th anniversary logo that represents the journey of the tournament over the years that has always aimed for greatness.

Mr. Noriyuki Takakura, President and CEO of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd. said, “In conjunction with the Honda LPGA Thailand’s 15 year anniversary, we are extremely committed to our role of continuously raising the standards of golf in Thailand while empowering young golfers everywhere to pursue their ambitions. As such, we are pleased to introduce our new theme for the tournament titled “Beyond Greatness” that is aligned with our goals of encouraging people across the nation to overcome boundaries and strive for excellence. In the last 15 years of world-class golf at the Honda LPGA Thailand, we have seen our Thai golfers repeatedly accomplish great successes from upcoming and promising golf talents like Atthaya Thitikul, Patty Tavatanakit to Ariya Jutanugarn’s momentous win at the Honda LPGA Thailand 2021 proving that with the right determination, anyone and everyone can go “Beyond Greatness”.

“Despite having to reexamine the procedures and strategies behind the Honda LPGA Thailand due to the current circumstances, we believe that this tournament is still a significant platform that not only acts as an opportunity for top professional golfers but also as a launching pad for young Thai golfers to prove themselves on a world stage. We look forward to once again playing our part in promoting the country as the ideal golf tourism destination.” added Mr.Noriyuki.

Since its debut in 2006, the Honda LPGA Thailand has become one of the most popular women’s tournaments in Asia and on the LPGA Tour calendar, boasting stellar fields annually and an honours list that includes some of the greats of the game including Suzann Pettersen (2007), who has had over 22 professional career wins. Golfing sensations that have had exhilarating wins at the tournament include Lorena Ochoa (2009), a former long-reigning world number one; Yani Tseng (2011 & 2012), five-time Major Championship winner and Inbee Park (2013), former Grand Slam champion and Olympic gold-medalist.

While Honda LPGA Thailand 2021 was held behind closed doors, the tournament still proved to be successful and one of the most iconic sporting events in Thai history. From the word go, the tournament was a celebration of Thai golf talent with Patty Tavatanakit and teenage phenomenon, Atthaya Thitikul slugging it through the opening rounds. In the end, it was another local favourite, Ariya Jutanugarn who rallied in the final round to finally get her hands on the elusive Honda LPGA Thailand crown.

“Winning the Honda LPGA Thailand 2021 was one of my greatest achievements because it was in my home country. I have consistently worked hard and persevered for this very moment, making it the most memorable accomplishment of my career. I am grateful to the Honda LPGA Thailand for continuously serving as a platform for local and international golfers to compete in a tournament that aims to spark greatness at all levels. I am so proud to see just how much Thai golf talent has increased in the last 15 years with many young enthusiasts joining the playing field. I look forward to once again giving my best at the Honda LPGA Thailand 2022 and inspiring upcoming golfers as much as they inspire me,” expressed Ariya Jutanugarn, Honda LPGA Thailand 2021 Champion.

Following the adversities brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government has recently shared their new focus to restore confidence amongst locals with several domestic and international projects throughout the country. This comes following the decision from Thai authorities coinciding with the reopening of the country with eased regulations for fully vaccinated travelers from 63 low-risk countries. This is to support the mission to reboot Thailand’s tourism industry as it is on the road to positive recovery after 18 months of COVID-19 restrictions.

In this regard, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports in partnership with the Sports Authority of Thailand and related agencies have teamed up to support international sporting events, including the Honda LPGA Thailand 2022, to resume in Thailand. This decision comes with the motivation that these respective events will effectively promote a positive image of Thailand’s internationally acclaimed golf tourism sector. As a trailblazer for sporting events in Thailand, the Honda LPGA Thailand can further spotlight the country’s preparedness in organising sporting events amidst the COVID-19 pandemic while still maintaining strict public health safety requirements and adhering to local government standard operating procedures for all parties involved.

The tournament promoter, IMG Thailand’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Ms. Winnie Heng, said, “As long-time promoters of the Honda LPGA Thailand tournament, we’re excited to be working alongside Honda in propelling women to greater heights on and off the course. Apart from the great and collaborative working relationship IMG has with Honda, it’s an honour to be able to be part of a progressive and passionate team that strives to push boundaries and elevate the sports tourism landscape in Thailand.”

“The 15th instalment of the Honda LPGA Thailand tournament will see efficient hygiene and protocol adherence to ensure best practices are in place at every point for all present and involved. We are extremely grateful for the support of our partners and sponsors that have motivated us to lead the way for the comeback of events as the industry continues to pivot with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic”, Ms. Heng added.

As part of efforts to further connect with the audience through initiatives on and off the course, the Honda LPGA Thailand has partnered up with Thai illustrator Jirayu Koo to exclusively curate tournament merchandise in conjunction with the 15 year anniversary celebration.The collaboration with Jirayu aims to showcase golf as more than just a sport and as a lifestyle that creates bonds and good times. The new design sheds a refreshing light on golf as amusing and fun as an attempt to break the notion of golf as a traditional sport. The overlapping colours between each shape construes how each game of golf also brings different experiences.

The 2-day Honda LPGA Thailand 2022 National Qualifiers will be held in January, as a prelude into the main tournament event. The qualifier rounds offer a unique opportunity for young Thai individuals to go Beyond Greatnesswith the chance to compete among the top female golfers in the world at the prestigious Honda LPGA Thailand 2022.

Thai golf fans will be able to watch the Honda LPGA Thailand tournament live on Official Broadcast Host PPTV HD 36 and their digital platforms across the four tournament days. Fans across the globe can also enjoy high-quality golfing content from the comfort of their homes via global broadcast channels that will be announced at a later date. Updates on the event format and ticketing details for spectators will be announced by the tournament promoter at a later date.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC and ETC call EU Members to Align Responses to Epidemiological Situation

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WTTC and ETC call EU Members to Align Responses to Epidemiological Situation

London, United Kingdom, November 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Almost 900,000 Travel & Tourism jobs across the EU at risk if restrictions return. Reinstating severe restrictions would cause serious damage to the sector. A staggering €35 billion could be wiped off the region’s economy this year. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the European Travel Commission (ETC), supported by a number of key travel stakeholders, have urged EU Member States to align their responses to the deteriorating COVID-19 situation and avoid imposing any limits to the freedom of movement across Europe.

The organisations say the sector cannot afford inconsistent and ever-changing national responses, and a joint EU approach is the only solution to saving the struggling Travel & Tourism sector in Europe.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is now acknowledging that EU travel restrictions have not had a significant impact on reducing virus transmission, hospitalisations, or deaths.

WTTC and ETC stress that measures aiming at restricting border crossing would not have any health benefits but could result in a huge economic impact to the region.

According to latest WTTC research, up to 900,000 jobs are at risk across the EU’s Travel & Tourism sector this year if travel restrictions are reimposed this winter.

Furthermore, governments across the EU could see up to €35 billion wiped from the sector’s contribution to the economy before the end of 2021 if severe travel restrictions come back into force.

WTTC and ETC say EU Member States have the power to influence and drive forward the coordinated recovery effort needed to preserve the sector and only a coordinated approach will save the millions of livelihoods that depend on the sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We urgently need to restore the confidence to travel and not create more uncertainty. It is vital we have a properly coordinated response across the EU which both businesses and travellers can understand.

“The vaccination rollout across the EU is among the best in the world with 65% of the population now fully vaccinated. We cannot afford to let all the hard-earned progress made this year to be reversed. This will have catastrophic consequences for jobs and livelihoods.

“While we fully recognise that protecting public health is paramount, we urge all EU Member states to continue using the EU’s Digital COVID Certificate, which has successfully allowed fully-vaccinated people to travel safely and freely.”

Luís Araújo, ETC’s President, added: “As the colder months approach and some European countries face a worsening epidemiological situation, we call on the EU governments to work together to ensure the freedom of movement across Europe”.

“We must avoid any further uncertainty or fragmentation. With the high vaccination rates, EU COVID Certificate and strict safety protocols in place, safe travel is absolutely possible. In the lead up to the highly anticipated holiday season, EU citizens need clear and coherent rules”.

Last year, WTTC research revealed more than two million Travel & Tourism jobs were lost across the EU, and its latest research reveals that if wide scale restrictions were enforced in 2022, a further three million would be at stake next year.

Following 18 months in which economies around the world have been already ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, WTTC research also shows that that if punishing restrictions were to remain locked in place for much of next year, it could result in more than €143 billion being wiped from the EU economy.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

First Regional Conference in Kuala Lumpur on Women’s Empowerment

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First Regional Conference in Kuala Lumpur on Women’s Empowerment

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, November 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO’s Members from across Asia and the Pacific came together to advance the tourism sector’s contribution to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

The UNWTO Regional Conference on the Empowerment of Women in Tourism in Asia and the Pacific – the first event on the topic organized by UNWTO jointly with Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture – brought together more than 500 key virtual participants in addition to around 100 local in-person stakeholders. Alongside UNWTO experts, government policymakers, UN Women representatives, high-level representatives of women’s associations and NGOs, joined leading academics to address some of the key challenges and opportunities for women in tourism in the region.

In Asia and the Pacific, women make up 53% of the tourism workforce. However, they remain concentrated in lower paid-positions and tens to have poorer working conditions. As in other regions of the world, high-level and leadership positions seem to be the sole prerogative of men. The aim of this conference was to contribute to international efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG5) on gender equality and the empowerment of women, particularly in light of how the pandemic has worsened the socio-economic situation of the female tourism workforce in the region.

In her welcome and opening remarks, H.E. Dato’ Sri Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia reinforced this main objective of the conference and said  “As part of efforts to advance a more inclusive recovery for the tourism sector which is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and particularly SDG 5 on gender equality, I believe this conference will provide us with deep insights on strategies and the future prospects for women in tourism in the Asia-Pacific region.”

The discussions of the conference focused on the six thematic pillars of UNWTO’s Action Plan on Women in Tourism. These include women’s employment and leadership; entrepreneurship; education and training for the realities of post-COVID19 tourism; and data and statistics for an inclusive recovery. Based on these thematic areas, the conference explored how tourism’s immense potential for advancing women’s economic empowerment can be further enhanced through the implementation of the right recovery policies and strategies.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels to Open New Luxury Resort on Lombok

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Meliá Hotels to Open New Luxury Resort on Lombok - TRAVELINDEX - VISITBALI.orgLombok, Indonesia, November 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Hotels International, a world leader in premium resort hotels, looks to bring a touch of Spanish luxury to Indonesia with the opening of Gran Meliá Lombok in 2024. Already one of the hotel group’s most sought-after destinations, the new opening will mark the first Gran Meliá property on the paradise island of Lombok and its second in Indonesia.

Gran Meliá Lombok will be situated at the beautiful Torok Bay in the south of the island, surrounded by green hills and a beach with crystal-clear waters. The perfect destination to disconnect and enjoy a relaxed approach to life.

The hotel will boast 22 luxury beachside villas and another 105 villas on the mountainside, all with private infinity pools and stunning ocean views. Careful attention will be paid to the architectural design, utilising natural elements that represent the essence of the destination. The hotel will blend seamlessly with its natural environment, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in paradise.  An abundance of large windows will allow in plentiful natural light and help the property merge with its surroundings, while the elegant furniture and warm tones convey a sense of pure luxury.

Lombok is an island to the east of Bali with a pristine natural environment and has become increasingly popular as a travel destination throughout the past decade. Its immense rice fields, rugged landscape and the famous Mount Rinjani volcano form part of the natural attractions of the island, which is surrounded by endless beaches and turquoise waters ideal for surfers.

The entire hotel has been designed as an authentic sanctuary for wellbeing. From the beachside YHI Spa offering relaxing rituals and treatments to the well-equipped fitness centre, Gran Meliá Lombok provides guests with everything they need to maintain their wellness routine. The hotel will also offer a kids club to keep children entertained and an extensive programme of activities designed for the whole family.

In keeping with the Gran Meliá brand, the hotel will feature world-class dining options that combine the best local ingredients and techniques to offer guests authentic Indonesian dining experiences. The spacious lounge with scenic panoramic ocean views will provide the perfect setting for couples planning an exotic destination wedding.

Gran Meliá Lombok will become the second Gran Meliá brand hotel in Indonesia after Gran Meliá Jakarta, a flagship urban oasis nestled in the Golden Triangle of the central business district of Kuningan, in Jakarta. The hotel boasts an iconic architecture inspired by Spanish heritage with renovated modern decoration, offering the finest dining experience, such as the awarded gastronomic offerings of Chef Tomoaki at Yoshi Izakaya Japanese restaurant.

Gran Meliá is a luxury hotel brand operated by Meliá Hotels International consisting of an exceptional collection of premium-quality hotels in the world’s most desirable destinations, defined by their extraordinary architecture, refined elegance, friendly and attentive service, signature cuisine, and exceptional experiences to help guests discover and enjoy the destination.

“Our commitment to Indonesia, where we opened our first international hotel more than 35 years ago, is stronger than ever and we are extremely happy to sign this new agreement, an outstanding property that will become a destination resort in itself in Lombok and will further increase the prosperity of the entire community” said Gabriel Escarrer, Vice Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International.

Gran Meliá Lombok is owned by Invest Islands, an award-winning property development company based in Lombok, and will become Meliá Hotels International’s 12th hotel in Indonesia, eight of them currently in operation and another four (including Gran Meliá Lombok) pending opening. Before the pandemic, the country received more than 16 million international tourists in 2019, with Lombok airport being the ninth-ranked airport in terms of visitor arrivals.

While Invest Islands is a real estate investment company at heart, it shares Meliá Hotels International’s commitment to sustainability. Based in Lombok and with offices in Bali and Hong Kong, it explores ecological solutions, whether that is through the use of native materials and local craftsmen or through its organic farm or plastic recycling centre. Its eponymous Invest Islands Foundation works tirelessly to improve education and healthcare, protect the environment, and empower local women.

“Gran Meliá Lombok is a huge milestone for Invest Islands,” said Jack Brown, who co-founded the company with business partner Kevin Deisser in 2015. “We are extremely proud to be working with a world leader in hotel operations and one of the key parallels we have with the Meliá brand is a focus on low carbon developments. Gran Melia Lombok has a very low density of building and a lot of natural green space.

“Hopefully this is the start of a great relationship that can continue for many years to come and we look forward to bringing Spanish luxury to Lombok, while respecting the natural environment. We’d also like to thank our investment clients from around the world that have trusted us to add value to the land we are developing.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Michelin Guide Presents New Hotel Selection on Website and Apps

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The Michelin Guide Presents New Hotel Selection on Website and Apps - TRAVELINDEXParis, France, November 23, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Michelin Guide’s hotel selection, created by Tablet Hotels experts and its community of travellers – puts the quest for excellence, the enhancement of uniqueness, the promotion of local know-how and the art of living at the same pace as its selection of restaurants. The continuously updated selection, now available in digital format, can be viewed, booked and shared on the Michelin Guide website and apps.

For more than a century, the Michelin Guide has accompanied gourmands and travellers by sharing its best restaurant recommendations as well as convenient places to stay around the world.

In the Michelin Guide’s restaurant selections, the establishments promoted are not just invitations to enjoy a meal, they are also true destinations. Today, the Michelin Guide sets a new standard for a selection of hotels.

The hotels recommended on the Michelin Guide’s digital platforms are selected with the same high standards as the restaurants, to fulfil the same promise: to strive for excellence, promote uniqueness, and highlight local know-how and the art of living. If Michelin Guide hotels and restaurants selections are bounded by the same exact values, the way they are made is different.

Where restaurants are selected by the renowned anonymous Michelin Guide inspectors, the hotel selection is carried out by the passionate team at Tablet Hotels – the Michelin Guide’s hotel experts since 2018 – and by its community of travellers. By listing hotels that inspire discovery or adventure, the Michelin Guide’s historical commitment to offer only memorable experiences is upheld.

“By making our hotel selection even more rigorous and focusing only on the strongest, most unique and most memorable experiences, the Michelin Guide aims to bring the know-how and expertise of its teams to travellers and gourmets around the world. In doing so, and by offering new digital services to our users, we are pursuing a clear ambition: to become the benchmark for high-level hotel and restaurant recommendations,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of Michelin Guides.

A hotel selection made with travellers that presents new features

The Michelin Guide’s collaborative hotel selection invites all verified guests who booked a stay through Tablet to assist with validation of the selection by sharing their feedback. Any hotel with a less than satisfactory rating will be evaluated for removal, ensuring that the Michelin Guide’s recommendations are always worthy of its users’ trust.

The Michelin Guide’s digital hotel selection allows travellers to benefit from the best online booking platform developed by Tablet. The trusted selection of extraordinary hotels — places that stand out for their style, service, and personality — is the first step in planning for a memorable experience, regardless of price. From checking availability to booking a room and getting away from it all, thanks to a seamless, sophisticated booking experience and industry-leading service and support, discerning adventurers are offered a new approach to the art of travel that is so dear to the Michelin Guide.

« For over 20 years, Tablet has been the go-to resource for finding and booking the world’s most extraordinary hotels online. Today, as the hotel experts at the Michelin Guide, we are committed to the same ambition as the Guide’s restaurant selection: showing travellers only places that are worth their time — place that will contribute something meaningful to their journey. And, like we do for restaurateurs, we are pleased that our selection will shine a light on the talent, expertise and personality of passionate hoteliers who help make the world’s great destinations so eternally attractive”, adds Lucy Lieberman, CEO of Tablet Hotels

The Michelin Guide is fully aware of the impact of the health crisis on the travel, gastronomy, and lifestyle sectors. Through its selection of hotels and restaurants, the Guide is committed to actively promoting the industry and meeting the expectations of travellers and gourmets who are more eager than ever to enjoy authentic culinary experiences and unforgettable getaways.

The Michelin Guide and Tablet Hotels are following in the footsteps of the TOP25Hotels.com and TOP25Restaurants.com by Travelindex, presenting a curated list of the world’s best luxury boutique hotels.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Resort Villa Selects local Thai Artist for In-house Signature Tableware

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The Resort Villa Selects local Thai Artist for In-house Signature Tableware - TRAVELINDEXRayong, Thailand, November 23, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Resort Villa, one of the most exclusive and luxury retreats in Asia with 8 private villas that can house up to 20 guests at the same time, is a well-known destination among the European royal families and Hollywood stars. Known for its tailor-made hospitality and environmental awareness, the Resort Villa is also one of the top supporters of local artisans from all parts of Thailand and believes in giving constant exposure of their works to its international clientele.

Recently, The Resort Villa commissioned Jirawong Wongtrangan (spelling to be checked), one of the top designers of ceramic art from Northern Thailand, to create an exclusive collection of tableware for the resort. Reflecting the different shades of blue of the waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the 1,000 square metres of infinity pool that connects all of the resort’s 8 private villas, this exclusive collection of ceramics is made up of clay from diverse sources that come together through the artist’s unique design and glazing techniques.

It is The Resort Villa’s hope to showcase works of local Thai artists to the rest of the world. For more information on handmade ceramics by Jirawong Wongtrangan, please contact: inclaystudioppottery@gmail.com

About The Resort Villa
The Resort Villa is one of Asia’s most luxurious private retreats situated amidst the quiet fishing villages and tropical rain forests and pristine beaches of Rayong province.

The story of this haven on earth began with a Swedish businessman, who fell in love with Rayong’s natural beauty and transformed the 14,000 square metres of land with both a resort and private retreat in mind. To ensure utter exclusivity and privacy, the resort’s 8 individual villas are only available to a single group of up to 18 guests. Guests of the resort, frequently Hollywood stars, Swedish royalties, and international business figures, are in the hands of 60full-time staff members whose mission is to make sure every aspect of the guests’ wishes is individually catered to.

The Resort Villa continually strives to be environmentally aware and is known for its social services such as the beach clean ups and a dog-neutering campaign to help control the dog population in the area and for its contributions and encouragement to the local community in preserving the nature of its surroundings.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Revinate Acquires Go Moment

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Revinate Acquires Go Moment - TRAVELINDEXSan Francisco, California, United States, November 23, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Revinate, a leader in omni-channel direct booking platforms for the hospitality industry, announced today it has acquired Go Moment, an AI driven, commerce-enabled messaging solutions provider for the hospitality industry.

The combined company will be called Revinate. Together, the companies’ focus continues to be enabling hoteliers to synthesize and activate their guest data intelligence to convert direct bookings and commerce at any point during the guest journey.

Revinate’s mission is to deliver hoteliers scalable direct revenue and profits from data-driven solutions that cultivate deeper relationships with guests. Customers love Revinate as they can engage with their guests throughout the guest lifecycle with automated and personalized campaigns across various channels, including email, voice, SMS and the most popular messaging platforms. Thousands of hotels currently use Revinate’s direct booking platform to generate 20x or greater ROI.

50 million guests have met Go Moment’s AI powered digital concierge, Ivy. Hoteliers love how Ivy automates nearly 60% of guest requests with her AI-driven, real time responses, streamlining both staffing and service delivery. Hoteliers have also seen fantastic ROI results from messaging commerce, from bookings to upgrades to amenities.

By integrating Revinate’s unique direct booking platform with Go Moment’s AI driven messaging and commerce capability (Ivy), Revinate will further enhance its omni-channel capabilities to engage with guests and create commerce opportunities between guests and the hotel. This combination enables the platform to maximize the lifetime value of each guest through targeted campaigns and seamless guest experience.

“This is a real game changer for our industry. The very best synthesized guest data intelligently powering the very best omni-channel guest lifecycle communications means Revinate has become the ultimate direct booking platform for hoteliers,” said Marc Heyneker, the CEO of Revinate.

Go Moment’s CEO Raj Singh will be joining the Revinate leadership team as a Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). “I am delighted to join Revinate in accelerating our hospitality industry’s bright future by building the ultimate omni-channel direct booking platform. I look forward to working with Marc Heyneker and his excellent team to serve the global hotel market,” said Raj.

“Ivy users gave us about 10 points higher satisfaction scores. To get that another way, I’d probably have to double my staff or do something else extraordinary.” – Michael Marino, former Chief Experience Officer at Caesars Entertainment

“Revinate empowers our small marketing team by saving us time so we can do so much more than we could otherwise. I think our $100M+ in revenue with Revinate speaks for itself.” – Serena Bethle, Database Marketing Manager at Brittain Resorts and Hotels.

About Revinate:
Revinate is one of the global leaders in CDP-driven direct booking platforms, cultivating intelligent and deeper guest experience and driving revenue and profitability for hoteliers. Founded in 2009, Revinate counts tens of thousands of the world’s leading hotels as customers and has won numerous awards for its software as a service (SaaS) solution, including 2018, 2019 and 2020 Top Rated Email Marketing and CRM Product by Hotel Tech Report.

About Go Moment:
Go Moment® connects the hospitality industry with their guests – delivering unforgettable experiences to both. Through their guest communications solutions, they are on a mission to make a billion people smile. Ivy, their AI powered digital concierge, routinely delivers high ROI to hotels while delighting guests.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GRAND GATEWAY: Much ado about makeover for Toronto airport hotel

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Just in time for the return of travel (and the holidays), the Sheraton Gateway, Toronto-Pearson airport’s only directly-connected hotel, has unveiled a $30-million makeover – it’s first since 2003.

Constructed in 1991 as a Swissotel, the Sheraton Gateway consistently ranks among the most visited hotels in Canada due to its coveted location adjacent to Terminal 3 at YYZ , but after 30 years, and hosting hundreds of thousands of guests, it was time for a major refresh, acknowledge hotel officials.

The makeover of the 484-room property, which will be fully complete in February (two floors are still in the final stages of overhaul) follows the purchase of the property in November 2019 by Toronto-based Knightstone Capital Management, which immediately embraced Sheraton’s sophisticated new brand vision and ensured that the Gateway is one of the first properties in the world to bring the vibe to life “top to bottom.”

“Except for the bricks, this truly is a new hotel,” director of operations Greg Macneil said during a recent press preview attended by Travel Industry Today.

“The transformation is nothing short of a metamorphosis,” added director of sales an marketing Jennifer Kazlauskis. “Our loyal guests who’ve recently returned are blown away. You can see it on their faces as they walk in. They can’t believe they’ve stepped across the terminal and into the same hotel. The difference is night and day.”

PUBLIC SQUARE

At the heart of the new experience is the lobby. It has been re-imagined as the “European-style public square” of the hotel – a holistic, wide-open space that invites people to join together, or be alone amongst others, creating a sense of energy and belonging. With a flow that is natural, intuitive, and uncomplicated, guests have what they need within arm’s reach, all set against an inviting backdrop that feels completely refined.

The well-lit lobby is graced with soaring ceilings and ample room for effortless social distancing. The sprawling space also features a restaurant, coffee bar, co-working spaces, and glass-walled soundproof booths for personal calls. Toronto’s Moncur Design Associates were tasked to implement Sheraton’s new brand updates and inject a distinctly Canadian sensibility into this “global hub” by creating a welcoming space that effectively invites guests to linger.

Moreover, “there’s connectivity everywhere,” noted hotel marketing manager Andrea Jaikaran during a site inspection as she pointed to charging outlets embedded into the lobby’s sofas.

ROOMS

King suite

Stepping into the generously sized, light-filled guest rooms that span nearly 37 sq. m., guests are greeted by a warm, residential appeal, composed of soft finishes and natural wood tones. Platform beds (in 1 King and 2 Queen configurations) are topped with luxurious Sheraton Sleep Experience mattresses and wrapped in crisp white linens. A 55-inch television is mounted to noise cancelling, woven fabric panels that make for an equally functional and stylish statement wall. A height adjustable table enables a quick transition to a standing desk. And a bench running beneath the TV provides additional seating and quick storage.

Bathrooms feature a modern walk-in shower or bath with amenities by Gilchrist & Soames. The space is surrounded with neutral porcelain walls, while a light wood vanity, backlit mirror, polished chrome fixtures, and black accents complement the guest room design.

The only thing that hasn’t changed here are the views. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering dramatic city or runway views, a thrill for any aviation fan.

CLUB LOUNGE

The Sheraton Club Lounge – moved to the lobby level – is open 24/7. The exclusive space for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Sheraton Club level guests and offers updated food and beverage option, access to complimentary amenities, and enhanced connectivity in an upgraded private environment.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Gateway Gin & Tonics

Executive Chef Pravin Kumar Bagali has conceived a diverse menu designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Part cocktail bar, part coffee bar serving favourite Starbucks drinks, part grab-and-go market, the &More concept is more than a restaurant – it’s a central pillar of the new Sheraton vision with food and beverage options available day and night that are locally-sourced, easy to consume while working, and accommodating of varied tastes and time schedules.

A highlight is the hotel’s signature Gateway Gin & Tonic, or GG&T, which enables guests to design their own cocktails, with six gin choices and various flavours and garnishes. The drink even turns colours as it is concocted by the mixologist.

AMENITIES

The hotel also boasts nearly 1,700 sq. m. of flexible, updated meeting spaces, a fully equipped fitness centre, indoor heated swimming pool, and whirlpool. Additionally, a dedicated Peloton studio in the works that will house a pair of bikes available to guests 24/7.

NEW REALITIES

Sheraton Hotels are following Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean protocols, created in partnership with leading experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations. Protocols include mandated mask wearing for all associates within the hotel, and the use of disinfectants to sanitize all surfaces.

IN OTHER NEWS

Having completed phase one of its own renovations, the Sheraton Centre Toronto is welcoming guests again following the first closure in its nearly 50-year history. A signature hotel in the city, located directly across from Toronto City (and beside the Eaton Centre), the property’s full re-fit will be completed in the first half of 2022.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News