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Raffles Hotel Le Royal Hosts Michelin-Star Four-Hands Dinner

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The iconic Raffles Hotel Le Royal will host a series of exclusive dining experiences this month featuring the distinctive culinary creations of 2-Michelin-star Chef Thierry Drapeau and Vietnam Iron Chef winner Chef Sakal Phoeung.

The extraordinary “Four-Hands Michelin-Star” lunches and dinners served at Restaurant Le Royal on June 15, 16 and 17 will also include a special Louis XIII Experience or wine pairing.

The 5-course dinner begins with marinated salmon, foie gras, tuna sashimi, green apples and wasabi espuma prepared by Chef Sakal. Next, Chef Thierry serves cold and hot scallops, and edible garden vegetables with dashi beurre blanc sauce, followed by monkfish cooked with carotene, creamy carrot mash with marigold flower and miso espuma. Chef Sakal then presents road dry-aged duck breast with chutney duo white radish and dried fruits with prune sauce. And for dessert, Chef Thierry will serve delicious Granny Smith apples with wild herbs sorbet.

The 3-course lunch begins with a choice of Chef Thierry’s crispy crab, pepper-raspberry sorbet and verbena oil or Chef Sakal’s scallops ravioli, shellfish jelly and foie gras sauce. Next, diners can choose Chef Sakal’s slow-cooked codfish and brandade with salmon eggs and squid ink sauce or Chef Thierry’s Australian pan-fried beef filet with sunflower praline, salsify and beef jus. Chef Sakal’s delectable dessert includes a Habano cigar, chocolate mousse, Cognac and coffee ice cream.

To complement the exquisite meals, guests will also have the opportunity to discover the exclusive Louis XIII Cognac Experience, which will be served tableside from a decanter. A special Chapoutier wine pairing is also available for both lunches and dinners.

The 5-course dinner is priced at $95++, while the 3-course lunch is priced at $42++. The Chapoutier wine pairing is priced from $22++ and the Louis XIII Experience is priced at $65++.

At Chef Thierry Drapeau’s Signature Bangkok, he introduced an innovative “floral cuisine” approach that is an extension of his renowned “cuisine of the soil” philosophy, as he explores natural and cultural landscapes through gastronomy.

Complemented by the subtle flavors and beauty of edible flowers and herbs, Chef Thierry’s menus are a journey of discovery, where each ingredient tells a unique story of the land and sea, connecting diners to terroir, or a sense of place, and to shared memories of enjoying a meal together. The Michelin Guide praises Chef Thierry’s “classic French flavours.”

Chef Sakal is among the most beloved chefs working in Ho Chi Minh City, where he shares his unique blend of creative flair and culinary passion at the renowned Le Corto and P’ti Saigon restaurants. In addition to his winning appearance on Iron Chef, he has also cooked meals for heads of state including French President Francois Hollande.

Seating for the meals at Restaurant Le Royal is limited and advanced reservations are required. For inquiries and reservations, please contact Raffles Hotel Le Royal at Tel: 023 981 888

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wah Lok Elevates Introduces 32 Exquisite New Dishes

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Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant is thrilled to announce the launch of an enhanced menu featuring 32 exquisite new dishes. This exciting addition includes 28 dishes in the a la carte menu and 4 delightful additions to the Dim Sum repertoire, catering to the discerning palates of our esteemed guests.

The new menu is available for lunch and dinner, showcasing a wide range of delectable choices to satisfy any craving. While the a la carte menu will be available all day, Dim Sum will be exclusively served during lunch hours, ensuring an exceptional dining experience.

Wah Lok’s dedication to culinary excellence has been recognized in the esteemed 2023 Michelin Guide Thailand, solidifying its position as a premier Cantonese restaurant. With the launch of the enhanced menu, Wah Lok aims to further elevate the gastronomic journey for its patrons.

Highlighted items from the new a la carte menu include:

1. Fried Australian Lobster with Singapore Chili Sauce Served with Deep Fried Man Tou (THB 690++/100 g)
2. Sautéed US Scallops with Asparagus (THB 680++)
3. Braised Whole Dried South African Abalone with Homemade Bean Curd and Spinach in Superior Oyster Sauce (THB 7,000++)
4. Braised Spiked Sea Cucumber and Goose Webs with Superior Abalone Sauce (THB 1,300++)
5. Poached Spinach with Dried Scallops and Black Fungus (THB 360++)

The Dim Sum menu introduces exciting new highlights, including:
1. Steamed Prawn and Scallop Dumpling (THB 170++)
2. Steamed Cordyceps Flower Chicken and Crab Meat Dumpling (THB 150++)
3. Pan-Fried Chinese Cabbage Dumpling with Shrimp and Pork (THB 150++)
4. Deep-Fried Chive Dumpling with Shrimp and Squid (THB 150++)

Each dish is expertly crafted by our talented team of chefs, who skillfully showcase the rich heritage of traditional Cantonese flavors, ensuring an unparalleled dining experience.

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Level 2, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Outrigger Maafushivaru Appoints New Resident Marine Biologist

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The barefoot luxury resort amplifies its commitment to conservation this World Ocean Month and beyond with impressive environmental initiatives on land and sea.

Ocean conservation is a core pillar for OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels and the newly appointed resident marine biologist at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has ambitious plans for guest interaction and participation this World Ocean Month, which runs throughout June.

As part of OUTRIGGER Zone – the premier beach resort brand’s global conservation initiative on marine and environmental protection – guests can join in and learn about conservation activities that go beyond World Reef Day on 1 June, World Environment Day on 5 June and World Ocean Day on 8 June.

Danielle Stanley, a dual British-South African national, who grew up in Tanzania, took over her new post with OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort in March. Throughout June, she and her colleagues will implement a wide-ranging variety of conservation initiatives that guests can join.

Activities include coral planting, whale shark and manta excursions, showing marine-themed documentaries, holding arts and crafts sessions, conducting a school educational visit, and inviting guests to participate in marine wildlife database and research activities.

OUTRIGGER guests help Danielle compile encounter sheets when they join the resort’s excursions to see manta rays and assorted benign sharks in the surrounding waters. She describes the surrounding seas as “one of the top seven shark sanctuaries in the world”. Sightings of whale shark, black tip, white tip, grey reef, nurse and silver tip are quite common.

Danielle adds: “I want people to shift away from negative misconceptions about sharks. They are misunderstood animals. They are truly beautiful and critically important for the health of our oceans.”

Incorporating artistic creativity into her marine work is important. For example, Danielle paints murals and invites kids at the resort to draw aquatic creatures or make art from materials they discover on the beach.

Since taking up her post at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, Danielle has introduced Monday and Thursday evening guest presentations. These are on topics such as Maldives Megafauna, Life On Our Blue Planet, The Ocean: A Carbon Sink, Oceans and Climate Change. There are also specialist presentations on sea turtles, whale sharks, manta rays and coral reefs.

Friday nights are also marine documentary nights at the resort.

Danielle, who completed a postgraduate course in marine biology at Newcastle University in England last year, has been inspired by the work of marine conservationist and author Sylvia Earle. “She’s a legend in the world of marine activism,” says Danielle.

She is also inspired by ‘shark girl’ Madison Stewart whose Project Hiu aims to repurpose shark fishing boats in the Indonesian archipelago by turning them into marine excursion vessels run by former shark fin fishermen.

Danielle is also an acclaimed underwater photographer. Her image of a diver in the waters off Tanzania trying to remove a fishing line and hook from the mouth of a whale shark was shortlisted in the Environmental Photographer of the Year Awards 2022.

Regarding World Ocean Month, she says: “I am looking forward to raising awareness on the importance of healthy marine wildlife and ecosystems for our guests, hosts and local communities here in the Maldives. It is critical that we form a sustainable connection between people and our oceans.”

People can find out more about Danielle’s outlook on the marine world in an interview she gave to the Ocean Culture website.

For further information about experiencing the barefoot luxury 81-villa OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort and participating in its OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiatives, visit our website.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Asian Hotels Turn Over a New Leaf for World Environment Day

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To mark World Environment Day on June 5th, several hotels and resorts across Asia have launched initiatives to provide guests with a safer, cleaner and more sustainable stay.

Guests Invited to Roll Up Sleeves for Clean-Up, Tree Planting in Southern Thailand

Beachfront resorts Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi are inviting guests to join their respective teams in collecting waste around the hotels on Friday, June 2nd. The project is part of a greater “Stay For Good” campaign, launched by the hotel group worldwide earlier this year, which encourages visitors to participate in local community events and meet local people. At Banyan Tree Krabi, the day will also include a Native Tree Planting activity within the resort.

Children Learn About Sustainable Farming in Vietnam’s Cam Ranh

On World Environment Day, The Anam Cam Ranh will take children to its onsite 8500sqm farm – brimming with vegetables, fruits, herbs, and chicken and duck eggs for meals for guests and staff – as part of a supervised program to learn more about sustainable farming. The young and the young at heart learn about the sustainable, organic cultivation of vegetables such as malabar spinach and lettuce, fruits including custard apple and papaya, and herbs ranging from basil to coriander. In addition to ducks and chickens, the farm also features geese, rabbits, goats, guinea fowls, turkeys and peacocks.

Chiang Mai Hotel’s Menu Minimizes Food Waste and Greenhouse Emissions

Meliá Chiang Mai’s signature restaurant Mai Restaurant & Bar is serving a Thai set menu on World Environment Day with innovative dishes crafted by a thoughtful cooking process under the hotel’s ‘360° Cuisine’ program. The 21st floor restaurant’s four-course ‘360° Cuisine Thai Set Menu’, priced at THB 1400 net (USD 40.50) per person, features organic produce from the hotel’s nearby farm and uses every part of each ingredient possible before food waste returns to the farm as fertilizer. The hotel works with farmers and suppliers to help improve sustainability and ethical production.

Resort Guests and Staff to Plant Trees on Cam Ranh Peninsula

To mark World Environment Day on June 5, family resort Alma Resort Cam Ranh will encourage guests and staff to plant trees on its beachfront grounds. Guests and staff will choose from a variety of trees to plant, including mango, coconut, Tabebuia aurea, Bauhinia pururea and seagrape.  The 30-hectare resort is shaded by remarkable gardens and is home to its own onsite organic and sustainable farm made up of herb gardens, a nursery garden and a chicken farm, affording fresh produce and eggs served at Alma’s restaurants.

Tokyo Stay Package Highlights Local, Sustainable Offerings

From June 1st Palace Hotel Tokyo is offering ‘Sustainable Tokyo’, a stay package that highlights local, environmentally-considerate brands, sustainably-sourced cuisine and wellness-focused excursions, alongside omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) in harmony with Mother Nature. The two-night stay features several exclusive elements to be enjoyed on-property such as a prix-fixe dinner at Wadakura or a treatment at evian SPA TOKYO, as well as special eco-friendly amenities and minibar selection. Optional off-site pursuits include kayaking, a private jogging or cycling tour, an art and architecture tour with a green spin, and an introduction to kintsugi, The package is available for stays until May 31, 2024. Prices start from JPY 371,000 (based on double occupancy), with 5% of net proceeds from the package going to The Nature Conservation Society of Japan.

Little Ones Learn About Biodiversity At Farm School 
Fusion Resort Cam Ranh, on Vietnam’s south central coast, boasts one of the largest resort farms in Vietnam – with more than 350 animals, a mango orchard, and a herb & vegetable garden of more than 3,000 square meters. At the Fusion Farm School young guests can pick sweet mangoes, harvest vegetables and learn about sustainable growing practices and the importance of biodiversity and protecting the environment. They can even pick freshly laid free-range eggs for their morning breakfast. On World Environment Day the resort is running a hands-on farm experience for children. The program begins at 8:30am with animal feeding and discussion, followed by the Fusion Homegrown tour, where little ones will learn about the various herbs and vegetables grown on-site.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TOP25 Restaurants Announces the 2023 Best Restaurants in Bangkok

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TOP25 Restaurants Announces the 2023 Best Restaurants in Bangkok - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, June 14, 2023 / TOP25RESTAURANTS / The highly anticipated 2023 selection of the top 25 restaurants in Bangkok, was announced today, highlighting the best restaurants in the Thai capital, illustrating why the city is a favourite gastronomy destination for gourmets and gourmands.

This year’s awards recognise the achievements of Bangkok’s best 25 restaurants, chosen and ranked by the Restaurant Rating Index, an objective curation and measuring standard based on artificial intelligence and enhanced by professional discernment.

Sorn restaurant took the city’s top position for fine dining. Sorn is helmed by chef Supaksorn ‘Ice’ Jongsiri, preparing fine Southern Thai cuisine focusing on local seafood enhanced with local ingredients and spices.  The celebrated Thai eatery was closely followed by Chef’s Table and Mezzaluna, the two restaurants share the second position and both are located at lebua, the world’s first luxury vertical destination. In third and fourth position two internationally recognized restaurants for French fine dining, Savelberg and Côte by Mauro Colagreco.

Ten restaurants were newly awarded and included in the top 25, among them Juksunchae, the first Korean fine dining in Bangkok, Maison Dunand by 2-star Michelin chef Arnaud Dunand and Wang Hinghoi serving deconstructed Thai food while watching a firefly show (full list below).

Chefs from the top restaurants, assembled at the Italian restaurant La Scala, The Sukhothai Bangkok, waited anxiously the announcement all hoping their hard work and dedication will be recognized and rewarded. Cheers erupted and smiles illuminate faces, as a collective sense of accomplishment filled the room.

Each of TOP25 Restaurants Bangkok Award Winners received a prestigious trophy engraved with the restaurant name and it’s 2023 rank. The trophies were presented by Mr. Boonserm Khunkaew, Deputy Director-General, Department of Tourism in the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand.

“We are eager to share the 2023 Award Winners in Bangkok, said Bernard Metzger, Founder of the TOP25 Restaurants Guide series. Bangkok’s finest restaurants continue to impress patrons with the outstanding and delectable food being served in the Thai capital. We are excited to celebrate their accomplishments and to reveal some new, unique discoveries.”

He further added “I encourage all patrons, industry stakeholders and visitors to join us not only in celebrating the achievements of the winners and be inspired by their accomplishments, but also to support and celebrate culinary arts and efforts from all restaurants in Bangkok, in particular from all our nominees.”

THE 2023 TOP25 RESTAURANTS IN BANGKOK
Ranked by the Restaurant Rating Index

1. Sorn, Southern Thai Cuisine
2. Chef’s Table, French Fine Dining
2. Mezzaluna, Experiential European
3. Savelberg, French Fine Dining
4. Côte by Mauro Colagreco, Innovative French
5. Potong, Progressive Thai-Chinese
6. Le Du, Modern Thai
7. Gaa, Progressive Indian
8. R-Haan, Royal Thai
9. Baan Tepa, Modern Thai
10. Sühring, Modern German
11. IGNIV, Progressive European
12. Blue by A. Ducasse, Classic French
13. Aksorn by David Thompson, Traditional Thai
14. Le Normandie by Alain Roux, French Fine Dining
15. Sushi Masato, Omakase
16. Signature, Floral Cuisine
17. Yu Ting Yuan, Cantonese
18. Maison Dunand, French Contemporary
19. Elements, Modern French
20. Vilas, Classic Thai
21. La Scala, Italian Fine Dining
22. Juksunchae, Modern Korean
23. Resonance, Boundless Cuisine
24. Wang Hinghoi, Deconstructed Thai
25. Keller, Contemporary European

Since 2018, the annual list and awards are based on Travelindex owned and patented “Restaurant Rating Index”. Some of the key indicators used by the multi-assets index include, but not limited to, quality of the food, ambience and comfort, value for money, as well as social indicators as online presence, social markers, online footprint, media engagement and review content analysis by AI.

The Restaurant Rating Index is a recognised benchmark for rating quality restaurants and chefs strive to be listed in the TOP25 Restaurants because it increases the restaurant’s reputation and draws in more customers. All restaurants listed, winners and nominees, always provide an unforgettable dining experience.

The list of the awards winners and all nominated restaurants is available online at: https://bangkok.top25restaurants.com/

About TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex
Travelindex is a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting directly millions of travelers worldwide, providing inspiration and advice for discerning tourists. The TOP25 Restaurants guides leverage the world’s first independent rating system based on artificial intelligence combined with human expertise, to curate a premium selection of restaurants and dining choices, wherever you are. We bring together the best of all cuisines with every establishment chosen first and foremost for the quality of food and service. The annual TOP25 Awards showcase the most outstanding restaurants and the ultimate collection of dining venues.

In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex also publishes TOP25 Restaurants Guides in following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Delhi. www.top25restaurants.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BEVERLY HILLS ESCAPE: Mariah Carey curates one-time vacation rental package

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Booking.com and Mariah Carey are offering travellers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to vacation just like Mimi this summer, with a special overnight trip package at the singer’s favourite Beverly Hills vacation rental on Booking.com, where she’s been living it up for the past three months. And it will only cost $6.21.

With Carey now ready to hand over the keys to her ritzy summer reprieve, Booking.com has created a single trip package that includes a two-night stay ‘Mariah’s Beverly Hills Escape,’ complete with an itinerary curated by Carey herself that spotlights her favourite places to dine, sightsee, and shop in Los Angeles.

‘Mariah’s Beverly Hills Escape’ will be available to book exclusively on Booking.com on June 21 at noon E.T., for a single stay taking place June 24-26. Priced at only $6.21, in honour of the first day of summer, the unique one-time trip package will feature:
• A two-night stay at the luxurious Beverly Hills estate that Mariah rented this spring (photo)
• Reservations at Mariah’s favourite restaurants, such as The Terrace, Cara, Nobu Malibu, Dan Tana’s and Craig’s
• A private consultation with a fashion stylist to get Mariah-ready along with beauty and self-care tips from Mimi herself, and
• A guide to Mariah’s favourite local attractions, including Will Rogers State Beach, Runyon Canyon, The Getty, The Hammer and The Skirball
• Note: Air and local ground transport not included

“Sometimes a week or two isn’t enough to get away. That’s why I was thrilled to stay for a few months in a gorgeous Beverly Hills estate, which I found on Booking.com,” said the award-winning singer, songwriter, actress and record producer. “My family and I enjoyed all the luxuries this beautiful home has to offer and now, one of my Lambs has the opportunity to experience LA in true Mimi fashion by staying in the same home and visiting all my favorite places in the area!”

For more information on Booking.com and Mariah’s Beverly Hills Escape, visit: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/mariahs-beverly-hills-escape.html.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BACK IN THE SLING OF THINGS: Air Canada to return to Singapore

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Air Canada is returning to Singapore after more than three decades, launching new service from Vancouver, effective April 3, 2024. Operating four times a week, flights will be the only non-stops from Canada to the southeast Asian city-state, and will offer a further gateway to Southeast Asia, Southern India and Western Australia via Singapore’s Changi International.

The airline says seats can now be booked aboard Flights Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service, including Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy, and Economy Class.

“Air Canada continues to adapt its international network strategy in response to evolving global trends and is broadening its presence in the Indo-Pacific region to capitalize on growing business links and Canada’s changing demographics,” says said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning at Air Canada.

He adds that the airline is “committed to growing YVR as a premier trans-Pacific hub – and Singapore is a top global financial centre, a multicultural destination that offers an abundance of tourism and food experiences, as well as an important gateway to beyond destinations… Our newest flight will be equally appreciated by international business travellers, as well as those seeking an exciting holiday destination, or simply visiting friends and family.”

The airline says the schedule – departing YVR Monday-Wednesday-Friday- Saturday (returning Tues-Thur-Sat-Sun) has been built to conveniently connect to and from destinations across North America via Air Canada’s Vancouver hub and, in Singapore to and from destinations across Southeast Asia, South India & Western Australia with Star Alliance and codeshare partner Singapore Airlines.

Gardens by the Bay

Transport minister Omar Alghabra commented: “It’s no secret that the last few years have been hard on the air sector. This announcement of the first non-stop flight between Canada and Singapore by Air Canada is great news for the sector and for Canadians as the industry continues to recover. Improving access between Canada and Singapore will help keep the air sector here in Canada competitive, while helping communities stay connected with friends and loved ones between our two countries.

Known as “The Lion City” Singapore is known for its multiculturalism, unique architecture, and attractions (like the Avatar-like Gardens by the Bay), shopping, gastronomy, and the original Raffles Hotel – home of the Singapore Sling cocktail – and consistently top-rated airport, Changi, which includes a hotel, shopping outlets, entertainment venues, and the world’s largest indoor waterfall, The Vortex, which welcomed 50 million visitors in just its first six months after opening.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

A FIRST GLIMPSE OF CELEBRITY ASCENT

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Celebrity Cruises has unveiled for the first details about what travellers can experience on board the brand’s newest resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent, when it sets sail this December out of Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The fourth ship in the cruise line’s Edge Series, Ascent will transport guests to some of the Caribbean’s popular destinations like the Bahamas, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands, before departing to Europe for a summer of Mediterranean cruises to Greece, Italy, Turkey, Spain, and France.

On board Celebrity Ascent, guests will enjoy the signature experiences of the brand’s Edge Series ships, including its industry-first outward facing design that maximizes views and outdoor areas allowing guests to connect with the world around them, a robust food and beverage program with 30 plus choices from casual to fine dining to satisfy all palates, plus spacious and sleek staterooms in a breadth of accommodation options catering to all travellers from solo adventurers and couples, to multi-generational family groups.

Incorporating all the features that made her sister ships in the Edge Series a TIME magazine “World’s Greatest Places,” Celebrity Ascent will bring back favoured signature experiences, like:

• The Theatre takes entertainment at sea to a new level with state-of-the-art technology and experiential, imaginative performances.
• The Rooftop Garden – the ultimate outdoor haven where guests can enjoy live music, movies, infinity float pools, and even al fresco dining at the Rooftop Garden Grill.
• The Spa – Where holistic wellness takes center stage through 120 destination-inspired treatments, the SEA Thermal Suite featuring eight distinctive therapeutic experiences inspired by nature, plus specialty treatment beds, a full-service salon and barber.
• The sprawling Resort Deck – Featuring a main pool lined with cabanas, two-story martini-glass-shaped hot tubs, and The Solarium, an adults-only, tranquil spa-inspired retreat built for relaxation and complete with pool, hot tub, and loungers.
• The Sunset Bar designed by Nate Berkus – Where an international beach club ambiance meets fresh sea breezes and boundless views.
• The Magic Carpet – The world’s first cantilevered lounge and gathering space at sea sits on the edge of the ship, offering a new way to drink, dine and socialise while enjoying unobstructed panoramic views.
• Inventive culinary experiences like the three-story Eden Bar and Restaurant featuring floor-to-ceiling views, or the fully immersive and animated Le Petit Chef dinner.
• The Grand Plaza and Martini Bar stuns guests with an interactive chandelier and jaw-dropping Flair, Flash, Fusion bartender shows.
• Modernized accommodation options such as the Infinite Veranda, which transforms from window to terrace with the push of a button, and the AquaClass staterooms built for wellbeing-seekers that are packed with thoughtful design and exclusive amenities.

New F&B

Celebrity Ascent will treat guests to a culinary journey that includes new experiences like:

• Redesigned Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud restaurant – First featured on Celebrity Beyond, the brand will continue its partnership with Boulud and introduce his second restaurant at sea. The reimagined space will offer an intimate fine dining experience inspired by the chef’s travels.
• Plant-based tasting menu at Eden Restaurant – Bringing guests closer to the earth through a culinary journey rooted in untouched, fresh and seasonal ingredients.
• Never-before-seen Le Petit Chef dinner – The crowd favourite dinner will feature an all-new animation and menu to match.
• Bourbon offerings and tastings – expanding on existing whiskey tastings, Craft Social will now offer high-end bourbons and new tasting seminars.
• More martinis at the Martini Bar – Aligning with the trend of low-sugar cocktails and fresh, crisp ingredients, the Martini Bar will feature brand-new creations and an expanded menu including lychee and passion fruit martinis.
• Revitalized main dining experience – Once again featuring four complimentary main dining options, each with a signature menu and rotating nightly dishes, Ascent will feature a redesigned Cosmopolitan restaurant inspired by the culture of champagne.
• Outdoor terrace at Blu – The clean-cuisine restaurant exclusive to AquaClass guests will feature an outdoor terrace with 24-person seating that will be available for daytime dining, from al fresco brunches to lunches.

Entertainment, art, and retailOn board Ascent, travellers will enjoy enhanced entertainment, art and retail offerings like:

• Nightly entertainment – As the sun sets the Resort Deck becomes the centre stage for the ultimate nightlife experience treating guests to an open-air celebration with live performances, live music, and a DJ creating a pulsating dance floor.
• New production shows – Building on Celebrity’s award-winning entertainment, the brand is partnering with industry-leading creatives to introduce three spectacular new productions shows in The Theatre, new interactive digital experiences and shows in The Club, and new engaging immersive shows in the Eden Bar and Restaurant, all featuring world-class dances, vocalists, musicians, and specialty artists.
• Redesigned Casino floor and brand-new games – A first for Celebrity Cruises, Ascent will feature an all-new gaming floor complete with a new layout, new design featuring deep reds and golds, and all new slot machines with the latest technology.
• Redesigned Art Gallery – The new space is thoughtfully reimagined, allowing guests to better experience priceless art pieces, and enjoy exclusive auctions and art events.
• The Sunset Collection by Nate Berkus – A collection of chic travel and home accessories available exclusively onboard Celebrity Ascent.

Itineraries

With a vast array of dates and itinerary options catering to all kinds of travellers, Ascent is slated for an exciting winter Caribbean and summer Europe season. Options to sail include:

• Join a monumental celebration by taking part in the 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Maiden Voyage on Dec. 3, 2023.
• Caribbean sailings that take place from mid-December to early April 2024, including the 7-night Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman itinerary or the 7-night San Juan, Tortola and St. Kitts.
• Celebrate the holidays at sea during the 7-night Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman Holiday Cruise departing on Dec. 24, or ring in the New Year on the 7-night San Juan, Tortola, and St. Kitts cruise departing on Dec. 31.
• Kick off the summer with the ultimate Mediterranean getaway on the 9-Night Italian Riviera and France itinerary; or cross Rome, Naples, Mykonos, and Santorini off the bucket-list during the 12-night Best of Greece and Italy itinerary.

“I am so excited to introduce the world to Celebrity Ascent and continue the legacy of Celebrity’s Edge Series,” says Celebrity Cruises’ President, Laura Hodges Bethge. “First launched in 2018, the Edge Series transformed what cruising could be and its ships like Edge, Apex and Beyond quickly became consumer favourites. Continuously striving to offer travellers a better way to enjoy travel and reach the world around them, we are so proud of what we have built and look forward to welcoming both seasoned and new cruisers alike.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ST. REGIS CHICAGO HITS UNPRECEDENTED HEIGHTS

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Physically towering over the city of Chicago, and inspirationally across the globe, the long-awaited St. Regis Chicago has opened its doors to guests. The 101-storey tower is notably the tallest building in the world designed by a female architect, American Jeanne Gang.

Considered an architectural marvel, the hotel is the first in the US Midwest for Marriott’s St. Regis brand, and vows a new viewpoint on sophisticated dining, bespoke service, and avant-garde design in the heart of downtown Chicago.

Making its own mark on the city’s cultural landscape, the St. Regis Chicago features a unique and distinctive design composed of an interconnected series of stacked, frustum-shapes that move rhythmically in and out of plane and extend to various heights. The tower’s crystalline form was inspired by nature with its facets of a shimmering gem and its gradient of green-blue glass that reflects the colors of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

The hotel features 159 luxurious guestrooms and 33 suites across 11 floors. Rooms offer a palette of natural stone and wood finishes designed to create a connection to nature, juxtaposing its minimalistic beauty with a one-of-kind urban backdrop of skyline views.

All guests will also enjoy signature St. Regis Butler Service, a hallmark of the brand for more than a century, which presents personalized offerings like garment pressing and packing services.

St. Regis Chicago lobby

Interiors for multiple public-facing areas of the hotel, along with the Presidential Suite and The St. Regis Spa, drawing inspiration from Chicago’s rich architectural history. Throughout the hotel’s public areas, spa, and Presidential Suite, metallic materials and colours, such as copper and rust, are interwoven with geometric, angular lines, offering a nod to The Great Chicago Fire and the city’s geographic interconnectivity of waterways, buildings, and green spaces.

Located in the gentile Lakeshore East neighbourhood, the hotel present easy access to the Chicago River and is a short walk from cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the famed Magnificent Mile, as well as shopping and dining.

Amenities include two dining experiences: Miru, an all-day Japanese dining venue on the 11th floor, and a Tuscan steak (and pasta) house to open in the fall, as well as The Drawing Room and Library lounge areas where guests can experience three signature St. Regis brand rituals, including Afternoon Tea, evening Champagne Sabrage, and the hotel’s unique Chicago-inspired twist on the brand’s signature libation, the Bloody Mary.

Meanwhile, the St. Regis Spa commands 1,100 sq. m. of the expansive Wellness Floor, fitness centre, outdoor sundeck, yoga studio and a heated indoor pool offers stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan.

“The debut of The St. Regis Chicago signals a significant milestone for the St. Regis brand as we grow our footprint in the United States and celebrate our first property in the American Midwest,” says George Fleck, VP and Global Brand Leader, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “We are proud to open our doors in Chicago, an energetic and dynamic city that, like the St. Regis brand, is known for its rich history and pioneering design. Through The St. Regis Chicago we will debut a new icon within the city, sharing with our guests and local luminaries an architectural masterpiece that also represents the pinnacle of luxury hospitality today.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand’s Tawa Ravadee Resort Prachinburi Joins WorldHotels Distinctive

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Thailand's Tawa Ravadee Resort Prachinburi Joins WorldHotels Distinctive - TRAVELINDEXPrachinburi, Thailand, June 13, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Nestled amid the lush forests and rice fields east of Bangkok, this charming resort offers fantastic facilities, including a 1,000-guest Convention Hall. WorldHotels™ has expanded its portfolio in Thailand with the signing of Tawa Ravadee Resort, an exceptional upscale property that showcases the grace and charm of Thai heritage. This enchanting rural retreat has now joined WorldHotels™ Distinctive, a curated collection of individually established hotels that promise unique, welcoming and attainable stays for discerning travelers.

Overlooking a lake and surrounded by lush forests and rice fields in the Prachinburi province, close to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khao Yai National Park, and approximately 2.5 hours’ drive east of Bangkok, this elegant resort is ideal for leisure breaks, cultural escapes, and out-of-town events.

Guests can stay in contemporary Thai-inspired accommodation, which ranges from the spacious 38-square meter Superior Rooms to the expansive 72-square meter Lakeview Suites. Every room comes fully equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and a flatscreen TV with international cable channels, plus a marble bathroom and a private balcony or terrace.

The resort’s bright and inviting Thiwaratree Restaurant serves authentic Thai, pan-Asian and Western cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while the Lobby Lounge is a great place to relax with friends and enjoy refreshments. Guests can also cool off in an infinity-edged outdoor pool, work out in the fitness center and tee-off at the golf driving range.
Tawa Ravadee Resort is also an outstanding destination for events, with 10 meeting rooms and a dedicated Convention Hall that can host 1,000 guests. These diverse venues create outstanding options for life’s most memorable moments, including corporate retreats and one-of-a-kind weddings.

To learn more about Tawa Ravadee Resort Prachinburi, a member of WorldHotels Distinctive, please visit https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotels-in-prachinburi/tawa-ravadee-resort/propertyCode.99366.html

“We are delighted to welcome Tawa Ravadee Resort to WorldHotels. This is an exceptional property that has gained a strong reputation for its captivating blend of Thai culture, natural scenery and world-class facilities. Easily accessible from Bangkok and the city’s two gateway airports, this scenic resort is perfectly suited to domestic and international guests, including business and leisure travelers seeking a fresh and inspiring setting for their next Thai adventure,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President of BWH Hotels – Asia Pacific.

Mr. Jatupon Dumnernchanvanit, The Owner of Tawa Ravadee Resort states: “We’re thrilled to transition Tawa Ravadee Resort to WorldHotels, the brand within BWH Hotels. This exciting rebranding enhances our commitment to delivering top-notch service, blending Thai charm with global standards. We anticipate a bright future for our resort in Prachinburi, welcoming guests to experience our refined hospitality under the prestigious WorldHotels.”

In joining WorldHotels, Tawa Rawadee Resort Prachinburi is now part of the industry-leading loyalty program, WorldHotels Rewards℠. Guests staying at any of WorldHotels’ participating properties can enjoy the benefits of our loyalty program, where members receive exclusive access and privileges at our upscale, independent hotels worldwide. Learn more about WorldHotels Rewards here.

About WorldHotels™
WorldHotels™ is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH℠ Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts around the globe, expertly curated to inspire unique, life enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels is comprised of four unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveler. The collections include: WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotelsTM Elite, WorldHotelsTM Crafted and WorldHotelsTM Distinctive.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News