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Anantara

Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel Opens on Amalfi Coast

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Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel Opens on Amalfi Coast - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comAmalfi Coast, Italy, May 25, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Anantara Hotels announces further strides into Italy with the opening of Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, the second Anantara in Italy.

Nestled high above the town of Amalfi on Italy’s alluring Amalfi Coast, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, is set in a restored 13th-century cliffside Capuchin convent. The 800 year old building underwent a thoughtful renovation to carefully preserve historic features including ornate cloisters and an on-site Baroque church complete with a marble altar and Majolica floor.

With each of the 52 guest rooms and suites elegantly renovated to preserve original elements, the creation of elevated dining concepts and a world class Anantara Spa, all with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, Anantara Amalfi is a jewel on the iconic coast line. The interior design takes its cues from the convent and the simple, artisanal lives of its original inhabitants with materials sourced from nature, blended with the luxurious details for which Anantara is known.

Dining is a celebration of the region with offerings carefully curated by renowned Italian masters. Executive Chef Claudio Lanuto introduces a convento kitchen concept in which fresh seasonal ingredients grown in the convent garden star in a-la-carte, monk-inspired dishes and sensory tasting menus. An internationally renowned pizza master and ambassador of traditional Neapolitan pizza, Gino Sorbillo, invites diners to savour the flavours of Campania region at a new al fresco gourmet pizzeria.

Emphasising its dedication to destination, Anantara offers unique experiences spanning culture, nature, gastronomy and beyond, guided by local gurus including one of the only remaining Franciscan Friars in the region.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Niyama Announces Surf Residency with Brad Gerlach

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Niyama Announces Surf Residency with Brad Gerlach - TRAVELINDEX - VISITMALDIVES.orgOlhuveli, Kudahuvadhoo Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives, March 20,2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Niyama Private Islands, the only luxury resort in the Maldives with its own wave breaking onto the shore, has two exciting upcoming surf initiatives. 1991 World # 2 pro surfer & Wave-Ki founder, Brad Gerlach, will be in residence at the resort from March 16th to April 19th to offer coaching sessions of his original and proprietary teaching methodology – Wave-Ki. During Brad’s residency, the in-house surf guides will become accredited Wave-Ki instructors, as taught by Brad, and will then continue the service at Niyama.

Niyama is home to two islands – Play and Chill, which are connected by a bridge. Vodi wave is just off the shore of Play Island and is a powerful and sometimes hollow left hander. Off to the west and five minutes away by speedboat, Kasabu is a rippable and hollow right hander. Up to four other waves in the local vicinity are also available, with nine other spots available with trans-atoll adventures in the resort’s 2×350 HP speedboat – Sea Breeze. Surfing can be enjoyed year-round at Niyama with bigger surf from March to November and no crowds.

For those aspiring to surf, learning to surf at Niyama is available all year, with in-house surf guides offering lessons to guests. Begin in the flat-water lagoon to learn surf mechanics & safety procedures, before hitting the channel wave with the guide to catch your very own ride. Guides will instruct in the footfalls of the best, with Brad Gerlach offering expert guidance, which can continue at home with a 25% discount on an annual membership to Wave-Ki available exclusively for Niyama guests.

Brad Gerlach is a professional surfer who finished #2 in the world in 1991 after dominating the leader board for the majority of the year. Brad developed Wave-Ki, his proprietary surf instruction programme, which is unique in that its approach is entirely land based, with a martial art-like focus on slow, precise movements, creating kinaesthetic motor memory for improved surfing once one hits the waves. The programme course is online and offers recorded guided videos, live session videos, regular open forum Q&A sessions, plus the option for 1-1 sessions with Brad via online facetime. Brad uses Wave-Ki to coach current pro-surfers, such as Parker Coffin, and works with many other aspiring pros, as well as every day bros looking to improve.

Whilst at Niyama, Brad will offer private land-based Wave-Ki sessions, as well as public group sessions at PUMP studio, overlooking the lagoon. Also, Brad will offer both private and family in-water surf coaching to compliment Wave-Ki performed on land. Many packages will include an annual membership. Land based group classes begin at USD 96 net, with private Wave-Ki land-based classes beginning at USD 319 net per person/per 45 minutes, and private in-water surf coaching beginning at USD 447 net per person/per hour.

After a day’s surfing, guests can hang out with Brad and other surfers at the Surf Shack with its bright red food truck, bean bags to relax on, and a reggae music soundtrack. The perfect spot for sundowners, the Surf Shack serves rum cocktails and gourmet snack food, such as poached prawns, chorizo hotdogs, tacos, burritos and truffle fries with churros to wrap up.

If guests need any surf clothing items, they can purchase at two new locations at Niyama – the new Rip Curl Boutique overlooking the wave at Vodi, or the Rip Curl Tech shop alongside the dive centre. For holiday memories, Niyama offers Chill and Play branded retail items such as boardshorts, rash guards, caps, bucket hats, face zinc, and a Niyama Surf Coffee table book.

Niyama Private Islands offers a collection of 134 villas, suites and pavilions, many with their own private pool, dotting along the beaches of both islands and extending out over the lagoon. The laid-back resort offers an abundance of space and privacy and a multitude of experiences tailored to adventurous honeymooners, active couples and style-savvy families.

Niyama Private Islands is 40-minute shared seaplane flight from Male or a 30-minute domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport. Nightly rates start from USD 730 based on two sharing a Beach Villa with breakfast and dinner including taxes and fees. Surf photo packages with Junior Garcia, the resident Surf Photographer, start from around USD 249 per private hour, or USD 489 for a seven-day package; and trips on Sea Breeze with a guide start from USD 385 per person for a six-hour trip.

About Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers more than a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going beyond conventional concepts of lavish accommodation, sumptuous cuisines, and personalised service, Niyama Private Islands Maldives presents every visitor with myriad opportunities to create their own exceptional island experience. With twin islands Play and Chill, Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers guests the true luxury of choice. The Chill island is true to its name, offering new depths of relaxation at the Drift Spa, entertainment under the stars at the outdoor cinema, fine dining experience offshore at Edge and so much more. While the Play Island provides delightful diversions for those looking for more active pursuits.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrating International Women’s Day at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

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Celebrating International Women’s Day at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort - TOP25HOTELS - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, March 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / On Wednesday 8 March 2023, the world celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is proud to join in, marking the occasion with a day of self-care and reward for guests and day visitors alike.

Spa & Wellness

The award-winning Anantara Spa is an oasis of tranquillity where guests are invited to take a moment for themselves, to rest and revive. On International Women’s Day, women enjoy a complimentary 30-minute massage or facial with any treatment booked.

There will also be complimentary classes throughout the day: at 10.30 am, the Ched Haek workshop teaches the ancient Lanna massage technique to stimulate energy flow; at 1.00 pm, a core and lower body workout provides a rush of afternoon energy; and at 4.00 pm, guests can take flight with aerial yoga, moving through a sequence of asanas with freedom of movement.

Dining

All ladies dining at either Bodhi Terrace or The Service 1921 will enjoy a complimentary sparkling cocktail. This could be afternoon tea in the gardens, or lunch or dinner at either restaurant.

The popular ladies’ night at the rooftop bar Bubbles begins with a celebratory welcome cocktail, then happy hour prices through the night beginning at THB 199++. There will also be a tarot reader at the bar, predicting what lies ahead in the coming year, whether fortune or fame.

Celebrating Women in the Workplace

Throughout the day, guests may notice female staff shedding their uniforms for their personal clothes. It is a mark of celebrating the uniqueness of each individual, regardless of gender, race, age, sexuality and more.

Gender equality is a foundation of operations at the resort, with 60% of management in fact women. “At Anantara, we select team members based solely on vision, ability and drive”, says General Manager Pitak Norathepkitti. “The fact that the majority of our leadership is female speaks for itself. While we empower our team members to be themselves and to succeed, credit must go to the women for their achievements”.

For more information about International Women’s Day at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, or career opportunities, call +66 53 253 333

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Anantara Heralds French Debut with Opening of Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel

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Anantara Heralds French Debut with Opening of Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXNice, France, January 31, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The arrival of Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel in a rejuvenated 19th century architectural jewel on Nice’s boardwalk, marks a triumphant return of one of the most storied hotels on Côte d’Azur and a continuation of Anantara’s European expansion. The heritage property overlooking the Promenade des Anglais is now open following an extensive two-year renovation to its Belle Époque era glory.

Centrally located at the entrance to Nice’s Golden Square, Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel overlooks Albert 1er gardens and the glittering Promenade des Anglais – the most famous stretch of seafront in Nice. Reopening with 151 rooms including 38 suites, many with sea-facing terraces and balconies, the remarkable 175-year-old building features a new Anantara Spa, a seminar space with six meeting rooms and a ballroom, as well as a stylish rooftop restaurant and bar with a 360-degree panoramic view of the Baie des Anges and Old Nice.

A consortium of interior designers and architects including award-winning David Collins Studio, local architect Jean-Paul Gomis and TBC Studio delivered elegant interiors that blend old-world elegance with contemporary luxuries. The design honours the neo-classical style of the original hotel, first opened in 1848, as Nice’s very first luxury hotel, bringing the heritage building on Nice’s Avenue de Verdun up to date with modern tastes.

Inspired by the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the golden era of Côte d’Azur, Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel’s guest rooms and suites combine comfortable sophistication with exclusive Anantara touches. Offering views of the sea or manicured gardens, the marble-clad interiors feature pastel tones and rich Mediterranean textures to create a tranquil atmosphere, with subtle accents of wood and gold to stimulate the senses.

To experience Nice in the ultimate French Riviera style, guests can book the 54-square-metre Baie des Anges Signature Suite which comes with a spacious living area, a kitchenette and a panoramic terrace overlooking the world famous Baie. Even grander is the 75-square-metre Presidential Suite located on the 5th floor, an elegant space with breathtaking views of Baie des Anges from an inviting terrace designed for sunbathing and private celebrations.

Situated on the iconic rooftop, SEEN by Olivier, the hotel’s signature restaurant, offers a taste of glamorous city life and contemporary Mediterranean fare from Portuguese chef-entrepreneur Olivier da Costa. Like his trendy eateries in Lisbon, Sao Paulo and Bangkok, the new SEEN in Nice blends striking views, imaginative mixology and gastronomic discoveries ranging from Niçoise specialties subtly scented with black truffles from the nearby village of Le Rouret to briny sea urchins and plump oysters from local waters. The breezy setting is seductive, offering 360° views of the city and Baie des Anges from indoor and outdoor tables.

At Les Colonnades, a glamorous Caviar and Champagne lounge with indigenous flavours and interiors inspired by the visual synergy of Nice’s tropical gardens and the sea will serve fresh seafood alongside light bites, local fare and wine by the glass. In the afternoon, a signature Afternoon Tea à la Niçoise, will transport guests to a glamorous bygone era.

Being a year-round destination, Nice and the nearby French Riviera resorts of St Tropez, Monaco, Cannes and Alpes-Maritimes have no shortage of exciting activities. Making the most of its central location, Anantara Plaza Nice offers a rich programme of private guest experiences inviting travellers to explore hilltop villages, vineyards dating back to Roman times and little-known architectural gems.

With a full-day ‘In the Footsteps of Coco Chanel’ tour, guests will not only get insights into the creative life of the iconic French designer but will also have a chance to tour one of France’s oldest wineries at Château de Cremat. Enjoy a wine tasting experience of Anantara’s private cuvées, lunch in the hills high above Nice and a visit to Coco Chanel’s official residence in Nice.

Meanwhile, to discover the fascinating art of glass blowing in the French countryside, guests will be picked up at the hotel in a classic Citroën 2 CV and whisked to the picturesque medieval village of Biot to learn the basics of the craft and create their own small glass object – a figurine, pendant, or a small vessel – to bring home. The experience concludes with a delicious meal in a typical village restaurant for a taste of the elusive French way of life.

With five treatment rooms, a hammam and a sauna, Anantara Spa at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel offers a serene retreat for the senses. Top-range marine skincare products, natural essential oils from the Grasse region and Asian therapies combine with transformative pedicures from celebrity pedicurist Bastien Gonzalez known for his playful approach to foot care. Turning to nature’s restorative powers yet again, the spa carries a bespoke collection of exclusive massage oils, made with essential oils from the perfume capital of Grasse. The collection features Anantara Nice’s signature “Coucher de Soleil” oil formulated with locally sourced mimosa, ginger and other aromatic botanicals. Guests can also work out at the 24-hour fitness centre, enjoy running sessions along the seafront Promenade, or reach new goals under the guidance of personal trainers.

The city of Nice itself has recently been classified by UNESCO as a winter resort town of the French Riviera. Off-property, Anantara Plaza Nice will offer a selection of bespoke local adventures and off-the-beaten track experiences to immerse guests in its myriad charms. Nice offers a vibrant nightlife on the Promenade des Anglais, a local farmers market at Cours Saleya, spectacular museums honouring the city’s rich artistic history, and annual cultural events such as the legendary Nice Jazz Festival.

Offering seamless event experiences, Anantara Plaza Nice is conveniently connected to the airport and Acropolis Congress Centre by tram or a 20-minute drive. With a total of five brand-new multifunctional venues ranging from 25 to 309 square metres – most of them with natural light – the hotel can accommodate up to 300 people for large corporate or social gatherings. Small creative sessions, bespoke private dinners and rooftop weddings and celebrations all benefit from direct access to the exterior and spectacular views of the bay.

Rates at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel start from €350.00 for a Deluxe City View room including breakfast for two people.

About Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences. From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Anantara Angkor Resort Launches Private Temple Dining Experience

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Anantara Angkor Resort Launches Private Temple Dining Experience - TRAVELINDEX - VISITCAMBODIA.netSiem Reap, Cambodia, November 25, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Anantara Angkor Resort, a part of Minor Hotels and a peaceful sanctuary at the crossroads of Cambodia’s past and present, offers travellers a rare and captivating Temple Dining experience that marries exquisite dining and historic discovery for a bucket list experience like no other. By inviting guests to dine, in full privacy, on site of a heritage temple set within landscapes rich in thousands of years of history, Anantara Angkor Resort places travellers at the heart of an ancient civilisation while parting the curtain on the lesser known sites of Angkor.

Taking Anantara’s signature Dining by Design concept to new heights, the exclusive dinner takes place at the central sanctuary of a heritage Angkor Wat temple hidden among a lush jungle, with nothing but stars and carefully restored ancient statuary for company. Dramatically illuminated with candles and ambient spotlights and draped in fresh flowers specially for the occasion, the ancient structure takes on an especially romantic air, making the package a perfect proposal or anniversary celebration experience.

With two striking venues to choose from – Prasat Kravan, a 10th-century temple dedicated to Vishnu, and elegant Thommanon temple that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – travellers have additional freedom when designing their private temple dining experience with Anantara Angkor Resort.

While guests dine on delectable Khmer or Western fare at the temple grounds, stories of the ancient Angkor civilisation are brought to life by either graceful Apsara dancers or an intricately-costumed, high-energy theatrical performance. In addition to customising their five-course menu, guests can pick their preferred background music and chic table décor, with everything from luxury transportation to five-star catering taken care of by a dedicated team comprising a private butler, private chef and a full housekeeping team.

Anantara Angkor Resort’s Temple Dining package is priced at USD 7,450++ for two persons and includes:

• Five-course set menu, choice of Khmer or Western cuisine with soft drinks and juices
• Private butler, chef and catering services
• 30-minute pre-dinner cocktail with free-flow soft drinks, chilled juices and canapés
• Traditional welcome from a drum-dance troupe and guard with a monkey on arrival
• Live performances by Cambodian dancers or a theatre troupe throughout dinner
• Candle- and torch-lit pathway, fresh flowers and ambient lighting
• Theme decoration for the table
• Professional sound system and choice of background music
• Portable toilet and housekeeping attendance
• Transportation
• Temple entry fees.

Travellers don’t need to be staying at Anantara Angkor Resort to enjoy the new Temple Dining experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.anantara.com/en/angkor-siem-reap, Call +855 63 966 788 or email angkor@anantara.com

About Anantara Hotels
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Unveiling the New Face of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

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Chiang Mai, Thailand, October 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Anantara Chiang Mai Resort welcomes back travellers from around the world with renovated accommodations and exciting new dining experiences in a prime riverfront setting.

With COVID-19 waning, travel to Thailand now back to normal, and Chiang Mai ready to celebrate life once again, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort recently hosted a glamorous evening reception for Lanna royalty, foreign diplomats, and the city’s leading government officials and business executives on the lawn of its 100-year-old heritage house. Approximately 200 guests were treated to an evening of live music and performances over canapes and drinks.

Formerly the British consulate, and renovated by Asia-based architect Kerry Hill, famous for icons such as The Sukhothai in Bangkok and Aman hotels throughout the region, the heritage house is the heart of the wining and dining experience at the award-winning Anantara Chiang Mai.

The new guest experience begins at the ground-floor Brit Bar, reimagined as the private members’ club of Her Majesty’s secret service. Here, guests are invited to share pre-dinner drinks and conversation in intimate spaces including the classic oak bar, salons decorated with old maps and collectibles, and a secret room hidden away behind a bookshelf and accessible only by those in the know. Gurus are on hand to recommend selections from the wine cellar, whisky and cigar collection, and whimsical cocktail list.

Dinner is then served in the upstairs restaurant, The Service 1921, which today launches a brand-new menu by Executive Chef David Eldridge that showcases the finest seafood and meats, including in-house dry-aged beef, and free-range chicken and pork from Thai artisan farmers. Highlight dishes include beef tartare with bone marrow emulsion, sous-vide egg yolk, Parmesan and Sriracha; a thick-cut 400 g Sloane’s pork chop with smoky mustard and apple glaze; and the classic British dessert, Eton Mess, made with local strawberries, whipped cream, meringue and sorbet.

Also launching today is Chiang Mai’s first champagne rooftop bar, Bubbles, which fronts the Ping River. The drinks menu is entirely original, with the world’s best champagnes by the glass and bottle, as well as innovative bubbly cocktail creations. The bar’s most exclusive table, set at river’s edge and reached by a glass walkway, is ideal for private celebrations such as proposals or anniversaries.

Coming on 1 November is the picturesque Bodhi Terrace, which lies in the shade of the resort’s 200-year-old bodhi trees. The menu will highlight the best of Thai cuisine from north to south, and with its riverfront location, will play host to the city’s most spectacular Loy Krathong celebrations.

Other developments around the resort include work on the private pier, with river cruises soon to be launched, a Thai medical clinic and IV drip bar at Anantara Spa, and renovations of the 84 rooms and suites. Spacious starting at 50 sqm, and with tranquil garden and river views, the accommodations maintain their classic Modern Tropical design, with Zen teak finishing and an emphasis on the breeze and coolness, but with the additions of the latest in luxury amenities.

“At Anantara, we constantly strive to elevate the guest stay, immersing travellers in modern-day local culture with unique and authentic experiences”, says General Manager Khun Pitak Norathepkitti. “I thank all our illustrious guests for joining us in celebrating our latest offerings tonight, and look forward to welcoming back guests from around the world in the near future”.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort was recently voted one of Thailand’s top resorts at the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2022. The travel industry’s longest running and most prestigious awards drew on the experiences of nearly a quarter of a million voters from around the world.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Best Things to See and Do in Zambia

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The Best Things to See and Do in Zambia - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMAFRICA.orgLivingstone, Zambia, August 26, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / While visiting popular landmarks and destinations provides a sense of belonging, it’s often those off the beaten paths that provide authentic and memorable experiences of discovery. Such a journey awaits in Zambia, a country of diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and incredible natural wonders. From waking up to the sight of zebras to raising a glass at sunset to a picturesque waterfall backdrop, here are the best things to do and see in Zambia.

Witness the Grandeur of The Fall

Described by the Kololo tribe as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or the smoke that thunders, Victoria Falls is Zambia’s most popular attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This majestic waterfall forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe where columns of spray can be seen from miles away. Experience the finest views of the fall across the Knife-edge Bridge, a vantage point that overlooks the Eastern Cataract, the Main Falls, and the Boiling Pot where the river turns and heads down the Batoka Gorge.

Take It Slow and Just Breathe

Zambia’s five massive lakes and plentiful rivers boast the largest water resources in Africa. Put your mind on mute and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the mighty Zambezi River which offers excellent tiger fishing and fly fishing.

Feel the Adrenaline Rush

For those who prefer a rush of excitement, Livingstone has emerged as an extreme sports capital with some of the best things to do in Zambia, rivaling Swakopmund in Namibia and Jinja in Uganda. Experience white water rafting in one of the top destinations in the world with deep channels and high-water volumes. The rapids at Batoka Gorge are the perfect setting for jet boarding and bungee jumping.

Soar Above the Beauty Below

Being completely open air means microlights provide unparalleled experience of flying naturally. With space for one passenger and a pilot, you’re guaranteed an exhilarating and unique experience complimented by breathtaking views of Victoria Falls and the fascinating gorge that the Zambezi River has carved into the surrounding landscape.

Ground Yourself in Tranquil Nature

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced horse rider, a horseback ride takes you along the trails within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Journey through the scenic African Bushveld with excellent bird watching and the possibility of spotting wildlife.

Let Zambia Envelop You

One of the most unique experiences in Zambia is basking in graceful safari-style only steps away from Victoria Falls and waking up to the sight of zebras roaming freely. Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara sets the stage for such coveted experiences. Located in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the hotel provides free, unlimited access to Victoria Falls for all resort guests. Even better, guests of the hotel can relish the ultimate private dining experience in irresistible flavours against the backdrop of Victoria Falls. Savour every moment, from sunset cocktails to starry African skies.

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara
Bask in graceful safari style only steps from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Sweeping Zambezi River and savannah views stretch from every veranda as you relax in elegance. Wake up to the sight of zebras wandering the Livingstone hotel grounds. Raise a glass at sunset to the marvellous waterfall thundering to its depths as you recline in style. Surrender to relaxation with spa therapies under the shade of monkey trees on the banks of the river. The Royal Livingstone is located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with free unlimited access to Victoria Falls for all resort guests.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banana Island & Discover Qatar Launch Whale Shark Excursions

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Banana Island & Discover Qatar Launch Whale Shark Excursions - QATARTOURISM.org - TRAVELINDEXDoha, Qatar, June 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara has partnered with Discover Qatar to provide once-in-a-lifetime excursions to view whale sharks – the gentle giants of the ocean. The newly launched experience takes travellers in Qatar to view one of the largest congregations of whale sharks that can be found on the planet.

Discover Qatar and the latest updates on the FIFA World Cup 2022 at QatarTourism.org

From April to September, the cooler waters off the country’s north-east coast provide the perfect location to see large numbers of whale sharks that gather to feed. The unique excursion takes guests on a high-speed catamaran to view these majestic creatures. A whale shark expert is on board to help educate guests, along with a professional photographer to capture guests’ experiences.

In addition, Banana Island announces the reopening of its surf pool. After a full renovation, the surf pool once again adds to the wide selection of watersport activities available at the resort. Guests can now enjoy two wide surfing lanes simulating ocean waves, with private surfing lessons available and the lanes bookable exclusively for friends and family.

Discover Qatar and the latest updates on the FIFA World Cup 2022 at QatarTourism.org

Located just off the coast of downtown Doha, Banana Island is the perfect luxurious escape from the city offering a wide range of accommodation options and vast facilities for guests to enjoy.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Floating Chef’s Table Series Launched at Anantara Riverside

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Floating Chef's Table Series Launched at Anantara Riverside - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The luxury Bangkok riverside resort announces the first installment of a monthly gastronomic experience aboard its antique rice barge. On Sunday, 19 June 2022, Anantara’s award-winning Executive Chef Phong Hinracha will team up with Chef Piyachart “Boy” Buddhivongse of Michelin-starred Saneh Jaan Restaurant to present a six-course four hands dinner for a Manohra Cruise to remember.

Discover the Thailand’s and Asia’s Best Restaurants at Top25Restaurants.com

Recognised at the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards in Malaysia and Thailand’s Ultimate Chef Challenge, Chef Phong draws on his Thai heritage and wide global travels to create innovative new and perfect classic dishes. Chef Boy of Saneh Jaan is known for precise details and stunning aesthetics combined with authentic flavours for which his restaurant won a Michelin star in 2018.

Aboard the Manohra, diners will start with an amuse-bouche, followed by three courses from each chef, including traditional Thai appetizers elevated by Chef Boy and longan charcoal-grilled ‘Benja’ baby chicken by Chef Phong, each dish paired perfectly with a glass of fine wine. The evening will be made more memorable with live entertainment.

This event, on Sunday 19 June kicks off a monthly programme of floating chef’s table events starring well-known celebrity chefs. Packages start from THB 3,500 net per person and reservations can be made by contacting no. +66 (0) 2431 9487

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ASMALLWORLD AG to Acquire Stake in Global Hotel Alliance

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ASMALLWORLD AG to Acquire Stake in Global Hotel Alliance

Zurich, Switzerland, December 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / ASMALLWORLD AG will acquire a 10% stake in the parent company of Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands with over 800 hotels, and will join the company’s Board of Directors. This strategic investment opens up new revenue streams and is expected to significantly expand ASMALLWORLD’s earning potential over the next few years. ASMALLWORLD will support GHA in the delivery of its recently re-launched loyalty programme GHA DISCOVERY, which will expand to more than 20 million members in 2022. The loyalty programme’s highest spending elite members will receive complimentary access to the ASMALLWORLD social network which should double the size of the social network by the end of 2022. In addition, ASMALLWORLD will receive the right to recruit independent hotels to join the GHA hotel portfolio under a newly created ASMALLWORLD soft brand.

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

ASMALLWORLD and GHA are expanding their long-standing collaboration in the form of a strategic partnership. ASMALLWORLD will support GHA with the delivery of its relaunched hotel loyalty programme GHA DISCOVERY. As part of the partnership, GHA DISCOVERY will offer its elite tier members (those customers who have earned the highest membership levels), access to the ASMALLWORLD social network free of charge. This will allow GHA DISCOVERY elite members to enjoy all the benefits of the ASMALLWORLD travel and lifestyle network, which is expected to increase customer engagement, ultimately leading to more hotel bookings for the alliance’s hotels. Under the terms of the partnership, both parties are incentivised to grow each other’s revenue base. ASMALLWORLD expects that the new customers from this partnership will double the member base in 2022.

GHA DISCOVERY – a hotel loyalty programme with 20 million customers

When NH Hotel Group is integrated into the alliance in 2022, GHA will be a network of 40 independent hotel chains with over 800 hotels in 100 countries, sharing a common loyalty platform. GHA DISCOVERY’s hotels include internationally renowned luxury brands such as Kempinski, Anantara, Corinthia, Pan Pacific, Capella and Nikki Beach. GHA DISCOVERY is the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel brands. When NH Hotels Group merges its NH Rewards loyalty programme into GHA DISCOVERY in mid-2022, then GHA DISCOVERY will have more than 20 million members.

The GHA DISCOVERY programme allows members to collect and spend rewards across the entire GHA hotel network. Based on the number of stays, nights or spend per year, members may also obtain one of multiple status levels, which offer additional hotel benefits such as room upgrades and faster earning of rewards.

Initially, ASMALLWORLD will provide access to its services for GHA DISCOVERY’s elite tier members and support GHA with the delivery of the programme. The companies will also offer additional ASMALLWORLD products and services to the entire GHA DISCOVERY customer base.

ASMALLWORLD to be added as a hotel brand to the GHA DISCOVERY brand portfolio

In addition to the core partnership, the companies will also work together to expand GHA’s hotel portfolio. As part of the agreement, ASMALLWORLD has received the mandate to recruit independent hotels for GHA, and the brand “ASMALLWORLD” will be added to GHA DISCOVERY’s hotel brand portfolio as a soft brand. Going forward, newly-recruited independent hotels can then join GHA’s hotel network under the ASMALLWORLD brand.

Until now, GHA mostly did not offer independent individual hotels a path to join its network as it primarily served hotel chains. The cooperation with ASMALLWORLD closes this gap, and provides an opportunity for independent individual hotels to join the network.

ASMALLWORLD acquires a 10% stake in GHA Holdings

To highlight the strategic aspect of this long-term cooperation, the two companies have entered an agreement under which ASMALLWORLD has committed to acquire a 10% stake in GHA Holdings Limited (“GHA Holdings”), the group holding company of GHA. The purchase price for the stake is USD 3.5 million in cash plus a 3% share of ASMALLWORLD AG. The ASMALLWORLD shares used for payment will be either existing or newly created shares. As the purchase price is being paid partly in shares, GHA will also become a shareholder of ASMALLWORLD AG. The closing of the transaction is scheduled for March 2022.

Transaction opens up significant new revenue streams for ASMALLWORLD

The enhanced partnership and strategic investment open up multiple new revenue streams for ASMALLWORLD. Most importantly, the company will be rewarded on spend generated by members signing up through the partnership. In addition, ASMALLWORLD will have the opportunity to sell additional products and services to this valuable customer group, once they become part of the ASMALLWORLD social network. GHA and ASMALLWORLD also plan to offer various ASMALLLWORLD products to the more than 20 million non-elite GHA DISCOVERY members which will create additional sales from GHA’s large member base. Together with these new revenue streams, and its stake in the future growth of GHA, this investment is expected to significantly expand ASMALLWORLD’s earning potential over the next few years and further accelerate its profitable growth.

ASMALLWORLD will have a seat on GHA’s Board of Directors

It is anticipated that both companies will be represented on each other’s Boards of Directors. ASMALLWORLD CEO Jan Luescher will become a member of GHA Holdings’ Board of Directors, while GHA CEO Chris Hartley is expected to join ASMALLWORLD’s Board of Directors. This will allow both companies to influence each other’s strategic directions and will help build further operational synergies between the companies. The appointment of Chris Hartley as a member of the Board of Directors is subject to the approval of the shareholders of ASMALLWORLD.

“This strategic alliance between ASMALLWORLD and GHA opens up new opportunities for both companies. GHA can now offer its most valued customers direct access to the ASMALLWORLD network and ASMALLWORLD will be able to offer its core products to members of the GHA DISCOVERY programme, and in particular their highest-spending elite tier members. We will also help GHA to drive incremental sales through these customers. GHA will also offer ASMALLWORLD’s services to the entire GHA DISCOVERY’s 20-million-strong membership base, which will greatly increase our reach and sales potential,” comments Jan Luescher, CEO of ASMALLWORLD.

GHA’s CEO, Chris Hartley, added “our long-standing partnership with ASMALLWORLD has been very successful and has highlighted the close synergies between our customer bases and the attractiveness of the complementary products and services, which bring value to each other’s membership propositions. ASMALLWORLD members who have previously joined GHA DISCOVERY have gone on to become some of our highest-spending customers across our hotels. It feels like a natural next step in this partnership to become shareholders in each other’s businesses; and we will benefit from ASMALLWORLD’s insights and experience in areas such as social networking and events, which are a logical extension to our GHA DISCOVERY programme.”

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About Global Hotel Alliance (GHA)
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) brings together a unique collection of independent hospitality brands with GHA DISCOVERY, a multi-brand loyalty programme leveraging a shared technology platform. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue, and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning. GHA represents a collection of 35 brands with over 500 hotels in 85 countries serving 11 million members. The award-winning GHA DISCOVERY programme generates approximately $2 billion in revenue and more than eight million room nights annually. GHA’s brands currently include Anantara, Araiya, Avani, Campbell Gray, Capella, Corinthia, Discovery Destinations, Divani, Doyle, Elewana, Fauchon, GLO, JA Resorts, Kempinski, Leela, Lungarno, Marco Polo, Mysk, Niccolo, Nikki Beach, NUO, Oaks, Outrigger, Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, PARKROYAL, Patina, The Residence by Cenizaro, Shaza, Sukhothai, Sun International, Tivoli, Ultratravel Collection and Viceroy.

About GHA DISCOVERY
Launched in 2010, GHA DISCOVERY is the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel brands, featuring more than 500 hotels, resorts and palaces across 35 brands. Members enjoy VIP recognition, thoughtful benefits and generous rewards at home or away. Recently the programme has evolved to include an additional tier and flexible paths to upgrade through nights/stays, eligible purchases or number of brands stayed, making it easier and faster for members to reach elite status. Unlike more traditional programmes, GHA DISCOVERY does not ask members to count points towards their next upgrade. Instead, members earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), an exclusive rewards currency. They also enjoy members-only Experiences curated by each hotel and have access to properties close to home, without a stay, through member-only Local Offers.

The ASMALLWORLD Group
ASMALLWORLD is the world’s leading travel & lifestyle community, focusing on experiences: the modern-day definition of luxury. Centred around the ASMALLWORLD social network, the company operates a digital travel & lifestyle ecosystem which enables and inspires members to travel better, experience more and make new connections.

Members of the ASMALLWORLD social network connect through its app and website, where they can meet other members, engage in online discussions, receive travel and lifestyle inspiration, and enjoy a wealth of travel privileges. Members also meet in person at over 1’000 global ASMALLWORLD events every year, ranging from casual get-togethers in major cities around the world, access to exclusive launches, shows, galas, soirees, exhibitions, major global sporting events, and larger flagship weekend experiences hosted in iconic destinations such as Saint-Tropez and Gstaad.

Other businesses of the ASMALLWORLD travel & lifestyle ecosystem include:

ASMALLWORLD Collection, a high-end online hotel booking engine focused on the world’s most admired hotels, offering the unique “ASMALLWORLD Preferred Rate” which allows customer to enjoy exclusive travel benefits at no extra cost

ASMALLWORLD Private, a high-end travel agency offering personalised travel curation service

ASW Hospitality, a hotel management company that operates and manages the iconic North Is-land resort in the Seychelles

First Class & More, a subscription-based smart luxury travel service that allows members to enjoy luxury travel at insider prices

The World’s Finest Clubs, the world’s leading nightlife concierge offers its members VIP access to the most exclusive nightlife venues around the world

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

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