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Aloft Bangkok Launches Re:fuel On Wheels Food Truck

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Aloft Bangkok Launches Re:fuel On Wheels Food Truck - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, December 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11, Marriott Bonvoy’s bright and bold hotel in the beating heart of Bangkok, is bringing a currywurst food truck to Sukhumvit Soi 11, selling the famous German street food a currywurst in a variety of flavors ranging from original to Thai twist.

In the heart of Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Soi 11, guests can enjoy their favorite pork or veal sausage with a variety of delectable sauces and side orders at a cost starts from THB 170 net per set;

Set 1: Berlin | Original currywurst + French fries
Set 2: Bangkok | Currywurst + Spicy sauce + French fries
Set 3: Cheese it up | Currywurst + Cheese fries
Set 4: Bavaria | Currywurst + Homemade Bavarian potato salad
Set 5: Bunny | Currywurst + Homemade butter bun

Classic French fries, Cheese fries, Bavarian potato salad, and cheesy bacon fries are among the side dishes on the menu. ‘Re:fuel On Wheels’ is aiming to serve an array of currywursts, side dishes daily from 6 PM until late, in a food truck style just in front of the hotel, Guests may see the menu via

Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11 is a distinctive select, modern, fresh and fun hotel. With savvy design and free-flowing energy, guests can celebrate in style in the unique openness of a no-walls, no-limits space. Experience a whole new vibe with loft-inspired design, totally tech-savvy rooms with free Wi-Fi and a great social scene. An easy breezy adventure awaits all guests in Thailand’s hippest hotspot, Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11 is just steps from the best shopping, nightlife, and dining destinations, and a quick 5-minute stroll to Nana BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway stations for easy access to Bangkok’s biggest attractions.

For more information, please call 02 207 7000

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Chiang Mai’s Tallest Rooftop Bar Debuts at Meliá Chiang Mai

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Chiang Mai's Tallest Rooftop Bar Debuts at Meliá Chiang Mai - TRAVELINDEXChiang Mai, Thailand, December 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The first five-star hotel to open in Chiang Mai since the global pandemic’s onset has launched a 360-degree rooftop bar affording awe-inspiring views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west.

The highest bar in Chiang Mai, aptly named Mai The Sky Bar, is perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor.

The city’s most happening venue serves an array of authentic Spanish tapas and pinchos including Galician-style octopus with smoked paprika, fried creamy house-made ham croquettes, smoked salmon on crusty baguette slices, and skewers with pickled pepper, anchovies and green olives. Fluffy fried fish cake with cucumber and mint salsa, grilled prawns with smokey green chili relish and grilled pineapple, and desserts such as a seasonal fruit platter with Thai-style spicy-salty sugar, wild honey and lime are among menu items.

The bar offers a vast selection of beverages, including imaginative cocktails that reference Chiang Mai’s forests and mountains such as ‘Bosque de Chiang Mai’ comprising whisky, cinnamon, cranberry juice, lime, honey and pasteurized white egg, and ‘Misty Hill’ with Irish whisky, Triple Sec, pineapple juice, basil leaves, lime juice and sugar.

Thai and international DJs spin Spanish and Latin music from 8pm Thursday to Sunday. Destined to be “the place to be” in Chiang Mai, the bar will host monthly themed parties throughout 2023 featuring guest artist line-ups.

In a nod to Chiang Mai’s rich culture, bamboo throughout the venue pays homage to the region’s hill tribes.

As the hotel’s main attraction, a significant amount of the rooftop bar’s business so far has been local, making it a prime place where the Meliá brand interacts with the local community.

Open daily from 4pm to 12am, Mai The Sky Bar is a prime vantage point from which to take in Chiang Mai’s sunsets. Dishes are priced from THB 120 (USD 3.30) and drinks from THB 70 (USD 1.92). Daily and monthly food and beverage promotions will be on offer.

In-house guests receive complimentary access to the bar, situated above the hotel’s executive lounge and signature restaurant. Tickets for outside guests are THB 250 (USD 7.15) per person, which can be used as a credit to enjoy food and drinks during their visit.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 52 090 600

Opened on April 10 this year, Meliá Chiang Mai draws on Meliá’s Spanish origins and celebrates Spain’s famed gastronomy. The hotel’s dining landscape encompasses Mai The Sky Bar and Tien Pool Bar, Mai Restaurant & Bar and Laan Na Kitchen, and Ruen Kaew and The Level Lounge.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited is a holding company under TCC Group operating leading integrated lifestyle property development in Thailand. The company has two main businesses consisting of the Hospitality business managed by top hotel executives of world-renowned hotel brands such as Marriott, The Luxury Collection, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, and Sheraton and Retail, Wholesale and Commercial properties whose projects include 1) Retail and Wholesale including lifestyle travel destinations, community shopping malls, community markets, and wholesale business real estate. Popular real estate projects consist of ASIATIQUE the Riverfront Destination, Gateway at Bangsue, AEC Trade Center – Pantip Wholesale Destination, and Tawanna Bangkapi and 2) Commercial buildings including the famous Empire Tower and Athenee Tower located in Bangkok’s central business district.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles Celebrates Holiday Season with Exclusive Fine Dining

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Raffles Celebrates Holiday Season with Exclusive Fine Dining - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, December 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Two of Cambodia’s most iconic luxury hotels — Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap — are set to celebrate the holiday season with a host of exclusive meals and other festivities.

The storied hotels, both in their ninth decade, combine timeless opulence with modern contemporary flair. In early December, each held a special Christmas tree-lighting ceremony spotlighting Nordmann fir trees imported from Denmark. The hotels are now strewn with glittering lights, wreaths and other festive decor ahead of the holiday season.

Highlights from this year’s Christmas and New Year culinary program include the following:

Christmas Eve

Raffles Hotel Le Royal will offer an exclusive 5-course “Jewels of the Sea” menu on Dec. 24 featuring caviar, scallops, oysters and more at the recently relaunched Restaurant Le Royal. At Le Phnom 1929, diners can enjoy a “Parisian Brasserie Christmas Buffet” including both local and international dishes, in addition to a seafood bar and carvery station.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, diners are invited to join a special “Christmas Eve Dinner” at 1932, with the hotel’s sommelier presenting a trip around the world highlighting unexpected grapes and wines.

Christmas Day

The “Le Royal Christmas Day Brunch” at Restaurant Le Royal on Dec. 25 will include classic favorites such as honey-glazed ham, traditional roast turkey, yule logs and other sumptuous desserts. Meanwhile, the “Christmas Set Dinner” at Le Phnom 1929 will feature a 4-course menu with popular dishes including a seafood tower, duck consommé and roasted turkey.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the “Swinging Gypsy Christmas Brunch” will feature live jazz and be served both indoors and poolside, with optional free-flow house wine, free-flow champagne or free-flow rose champagne.

New Year’s Eve

Ring in 2023 at one of four special events at Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The “New Year’s Eve Buffet” on Dec. 31 at Le Phnom 1929 will feature a decadent culinary spread prepared by Executive Chef Martin Becquart. The “New Year’s Eve Sturia Caviar Dinner” promises an evening of pure indulgence at Restaurant Le Royal. The “Saint-Tropez White Party & Countdown” at The Elephant Bar will include Provençal flavors and champagne, with music from a guest DJ. The “Oyster and Champagne Night,” also at The Elephant Bar, will feature premium oysters from Australia and Henriot Brut Souverain Champagne.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the “Gatsby End of the Year” party at the Poolside Terrace and Raffles Marquee will feature a 1920s theme, with live performances, guest DJs and the most-anticipated fireworks display of the year. Free-flow wine and champagne will be served.

New Year’s Day

Kick off the new year with a special “New Year’s Day Extended Breakfast” at Le Phnom 1929 at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, featuring a host of favorites such as seafood on ice, mimosas, bloody marys, imported cheeses and more. The “New Year’s Day Set Dinner” at Le Phnom 1929 will offer a decadent feast with French oysters, premium beef and more.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the “New Year’s Day Brunch” at Cafe d’Angkor will feature a lavish spread of festive delicacies, including a special bloody mary bar.

More Festive Events at Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Raffles Hotel Le Royal has launched a special “Festive High Tea & Carols” at the Conservatory featuring Christmas-themed pastries and music from a live choir. Presented on Dec. 4, 11, 18 and 25.

Young gourmands are invited to join a fun-filled gingerbread-making class at Le Phnom 1929 on Dec. 3, 10 and 17.

The Raffles Spa is offering a “Festive Spa” package throughout December that includes a cinnamon salt foot scrub (10 min.), chocolate body scrub (30 min.), aromatherapy full body massage (90 min.), festive Afternoon Tea at The Writer’s Bar, and “Festive Glühwein” with a Raffles chocolate present.

Festive gourmet hampers at Raffles Hotel Le Royal include mouth-watering chocolates, pampering spa essentials and more, available in the Raffles Arcade off the lobby in Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s heritage building.

A special holiday stay package starts at $360++ for double/night.

More Festive Events at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Throughout December, a special “Afternoon Tea & Champagne” will be served in the Conservatory, featuring freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and more.

At The Elephant Bar in December, guests can savor “Kampuchea Mulled Wine & Mignardise,” featuring the warm indulgence of traditional French mulled wine with special Angkor spices, paired with bite-sized Christmas-themed desserts.

At the Raffles Spa, “The Raffles Festive Spa Package” helps guests rejuvenate with a special 30-minute honey and tamarind scrub followed by a 60-minute warm coconut oil massage.

Other special festivities include a gingerbread house-making class (Dec. 11); an outdoor cinema screening of the holiday classic Home Alone (Dec. 18); “Bubbles from the Land and Sea” featuring champagne, handcrafted cocktails, caviars and pastries with live music (Dec. 19 and 31); and a “Bistro Christmas Eve” 4-course dinner at Cafe d’Angkor (Dec. 19 and 31).

A special holiday stay package starts at $360++ per night.

For reservations or inquiries about Raffles Hotel Le Royal, please contact +855 23 981 888

For Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, please contact +855 63 963 888

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.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SPAIN PREPARES FOR PICASSO MILESTONE

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With 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of the death of one of its most famous artists – Pablo Picasso – Spain has launched a campaign to appeal to fans of the creative genius with a full slate of events in five cities throughout the year.

While Picasso was born in Malaga in 1881 (and died on April 8, 1973), the artist lived most of his adult life in France. But with the campaign “Spain Inspired Picasso, Come Find Your Inspiration,” launched in Canada last week by Turespana, the Spanish tourist office is hoping to “keep the artist’s memory alive,” and inspire visitors to have a fresh look at the country through the artist’s eyes.

“It’s a very good time to visit…” Malaga Tourism Board CEO Jonathan Gomez Punzon, told the trade audience in Toronto, with the Embassy’s of Spain’s consul for tourism affairs in Canada Barbara Couto noting that Canadians have ample airlift and gateways to the Iberian country.

The event, also attended by Malaga deputy mayor Jacobo Florido, featured Spanish food (paella) and lively entertainment (singing and dancing), reminding that there is much more to Spain that will inspire visitors than simply the memory of the great artist.

Jonathan Gomez Punzon, Barbara Couto, and Jacobo Florido

The Picasso milestone is in fact a large-scale transnational event between Spain and France, which will also be marked by 42 exhibitions in Europe and the US, with hopes that Canadian events will also take shape.

In Spain, Couto said the five cities – Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Bilbao, and A Coruna – all of which were a particular a source of inspiration to Picasso, leaving a mark on his personality and his art, will be prominent in the celebrations, which will feature museum, gallery, and art school exhibits, symposiums and online opportunities, but also gastronomy and touring itineraries created by the tourist board.

Perhaps most admired for his role in the origins of cubism, Picasso also earned notoriety as a passionate anti-fascist, as symbolized in his famous masterpiece “Guernica.”

His life as one of the 20th century’s most influential, unorthodox, and celebrated artists, including his tumultuous relationships and shifting political alliances, was chronicled in the National Geographic Channel’s 10-part fictional series Emmy-awarding docudrama “Genius” in 2018, with Antonio Banderas starring as the artist.

For more information on Picasso in Spain, click HERE.

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: The strangest Christmas song yet

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I don’t want to be a Grinch, but after too many years on this planet to mention I must concede that the usual Christmas songs that begin to permeate many aspects of life, starting far too early in November I might add, tend to wear on me. So, imagine my surprise at actually hearing something new (well, 2017).

I had occasion recently to find myself in an amazing bar slash music venue in Lexington, Kentucky, called The Burl, watching a band called the Steep Canyon Rangers (SCR) – an impressive, infectious bluegrass outfit that I soon learned had garnered some fame as a backing band for comedian Steve Martin, who moonlights as a banjo player of some renown beyond (and sometimes in conjunction) with his day job as a wild and crazy guy.

So, now the surprise: as I tootled through YouTube in search of suitable SCR bluegrass bonanza to share, I found this instead – and just in time for my favourite musical time of year.

It’s a true Christmas gift indeed! Enjoy (and yes that’s my boys SCR is the background).

Lyrics

Every year the wife and I lay out the welcome mat
For all the in-laws far and wide and our third cousin, Jack
We trim the tree and hang the wreath and every time forget
That what comes through our door each year
Is the strangest Christmas yet
Two full days fore Christmas Eve, grandma comes by car
With a pumpkin pie that she had baked that tastes like her cigar
She pulls up in a pickup truck with crazy Uncle Don
He parks it where he does each year, right on our front lawn

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, so strange
Strangest Christmas yet, Wooo
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

Oh lookie here the children dear have built a roaring fire
Too bad it’s in our driveway and with a stolen tire
Then came time for photographs the camera’s set to strobe
And I said to Uncle Bob, “You wanna close your robe?”
Cousin Billy likes his guns, and naturally he came armed
He’s on the lookout for invaders from the planet Zarn
Uncle Teddy put on weight, he’d gotten rather large
We couldn’t take him through the door, he stayed in the garage

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, how strange
Strangest Christmas yet, really strange
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

We blessed the food in different faiths that seemed to number seven
And say a prayer that with just some help just might get to heaven
Then from the garage we hear a sound that makes us ache
Uncle Teddy with a voice so pure that your heart would break
“Joy to the world” he knows no other line
“Joy to the world” he sings it one more time
“Joy to the world” we here it once again

We all take hands and quiet down and let it all sink in
I take him out a plate of food and thank him for the song
He says so sorry that I might’ve got the words a little wrong
We tip our glasses, give a hug, and toast to Christmas cheer
And count the months until we get to see them all next year

It’s the strangest Christmas yet, we love it
Strangest Christmas yet, can’t wait till next year
It’ll take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet
Hey put down that spatula!
Take some time to forget the strangest Christmas yet

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Celebrates the Power of “One in a Million” in Anti-Trafficking Milestone

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With the United Nations General Assembly recognition of Human Rights Day on December 10, 2022, Marriott International today announced it has successfully trained one million associates to spot the signs of and respond to human trafficking. This marks a significant moment in the global fight against trafficking.

Marriott International first introduced human trafficking awareness training in 2016 and rolled out enhanced training in 2021. Designed in collaboration with Polaris, a leading nonprofit that specializes in combating human trafficking and helping survivors of trafficking, the training features scenario-based examples to help hotel associates recognize the signs of trafficking in real-world context and provides response guidance for managers.

“I could not be prouder of our one million associates who completed their training — they truly are one in a million,” said Anthony Capuano, Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International. “While it is heart-wrenching to hear stories of human trafficking, Marriott is empowering associates across the globe to learn the signs, act quickly, and help combat these horrible crimes. Today is an important milestone along our journey to train all on-property associates by 2025. It takes just one associate to stop a trafficking situation and we are pleased to have donated the training to the broader industry to expand the impact.”

The training extends beyond Marriot International’s portfolio of hotels. With the support of the American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation, Marriott International continues to make the training available to the hospitality industry and beyond via ECPAT-USA.

Marriott International Training by the Numbers

  • 1 million+ unique associate training completions
  • 8,200 hotels
  • 138 countries and territories
  • 570,000+ training hours
  • 90 job functions trained
  • 17 languages provided
Marriott_HTA_Infographic_vF.jpg

The latest estimates from the International Labour Organization indicate that 28 million people are trafficked each year globally. The number of trafficked people has risen significantly in the last five years. Ten million more people were involved in trafficking situations in 2021 compared to 2016 global estimates, and women and children remain disproportionately vulnerable.

To hear firsthand accounts about the company’s training in action, watch the video below. Check out Marriott International’s YouTube page for more videos.

Will You Be a Million and One?

The online training can be taken for free at https://www.ecpatusa.org/hotel-training.

To learn more about Marriott International’s work to combat human trafficking globally visit Welcome All and Advance Human Rights I Marriott International Serve360.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc., (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,200 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact
Christin Fernandez
Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations
Marriott International
Christin.Fernandez@Marriott.com
+1 (301) 380-7838

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Inviting Romance in Bali at Tanah Gajah by Hadiprana

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Inviting Romance in Bali at Tanah Gajah by Hadiprana - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, December 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A secluded property in the highlands of Ubud has long been a popular spot for intimate weddings and the honeymoon crowd but you don’t need to say “I do,” to enjoy Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana’s romantic allure. The Balinese property is ticking all the boxes for a romantic getaway this Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and beyond.

The Art of Romance is a two-night stay with all the romantic trimmings. Upon arrival each couple will find a floral aromatherapy bath already drawn in their room and a welcome cake. After that it’s time for afternoon tea, served picnic style while overlooking the scenic rice paddies the property is known for. A photo session, shot throughout the grounds, uses mythical stone sculptures, ponds graced with swans, rice paddies, temples, and the verdant landscape as a backdrop. Ten edited images are included in the package.

At the resort’s Tempayan restaurant, housed in a traditional bale-inspired building, the duo will enjoy a three-course candlelit meal under Chef Dean’s direction, the Singaporean chef who has helmed the property’s kitchen and flourishing organic garden for over a decade.

A 120-minute couples spa ritual in a deluxe double spa suite, with an oversized semi-outdoor terrazzo bath, and private steam shower, rounds out the romantic stay and is accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine to be enjoyed in or out of the tub.

The Art of Romance also includes:

  • Welcome drink
  • Personal butler service
  • Daily a la carte breakfast
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits delivered to your villa or suite
  • Daily afternoon tea from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Panen Padi Lounge
  • Daily sunset cocktails from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
  • All snacks and beverages including an alcoholic selection from the minibar (replenished once daily)
  • Daily laundry service up to six pieces per villa (excluding dry cleaning)
  • Car service to/from Ubud Centre with a private car between 8:00 am – 6:00 pm equipped with Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi access in the suite/villa and public areas
  • Access to the tennis court and health club

The package is on offer for bookings until June 30, 2023. Rates start from USD 1,190 nett.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International to Expand Luxury Portfolio in Next Three Years

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Meliá Hotels International to Expand Luxury Portfolio in Next Three Years - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, December 15,  2022 / TRAVELINDEX /  Meliá Hotels International, the world’s most authentic Spanish hotel brand and the third largest hotel group in Europe, is proud to announce that one in three hotel openings between 2023 and 2026 will be within its luxury portfolio. Bringing Spanish prestige, tradition and flair to its guests in every destination, the family run public company brand offers an unrivalled opportunity to travel in an ethically, socially, culturally and environmentally conscious manner.

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

The luxury brand rooted in Mediterranean heritage and born in Palma de Mallorca in 1956, demonstrates its rapid growth, continued success and commitment to the luxury travel industry. This year’s new sustainable leader and first carbon-neutral prototype, Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá in Menorca, strengthened the brand’s position, which is elevated further with key upcoming luxury hotel openings: Palazzo Cordusio, a Gran Meliá Hotel in Milan, Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel in Tanzania, ME Malta, ME Lisbon, ME Guadalajara in Mexico, Paradisus Gran Canaria, Paradisus Salinas in Lanzarote, and Gran Meliá Nha Trang in Vietnam.

Already the 19th largest hotel group worldwide with a presence across six continents and 42 countries, Meliá’s growth echoes the brand’s key pillars of its Mediterranean legacy, a global and expanding footprint, sustainability, and creating travel experiences to truly discover the destinations.

“In today’s market, luxury and exclusivity can no longer be defined from one perspective, therefore our luxury brands seek to address the world of luxury in different ways. Our mission is to provide conscious travel for an enriching lifestyle”, says Mr Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “We have an impressive pipeline and our prime luxury hotels will spearhead our continued upwards trajectory, not just in destinations of Meliá’s roots of the Mediterranean, but further afield to Africa and Asia too,” he adds.

Palazzo Cordusio, a Gran Meliá Hotel in Milan, will be housed in Palazzo Venezia, one of the most iconic Renaissance buildings in the city. Opening in Q3, 2023, the emblematic Palazzo Cordusio sets a major milestone in being Gran Meliá’s first Milanese property and reaffirms Meliá’s strengthening footprint in Italy. The hotel will preserve the building’s cultural prestige with the hotel’s historic façade whilst renovating the 84 guestrooms, restaurants and rooftop bar. In-house architect Álvaro Sans will create elegant spaces and sophisticated interiors to entice gourmand-lovers and cultured travellers.

The most recent brand addition to the hotel group, The Meliá Collection, is also opening a new property next year. Further afield to the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, Meliá will launch its fourth luxury hotel in the African country and its first within the Crater itself – Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel. Opening in June 2023, this five-star lodge will complete the brand’s safari circuit, boast the largest – yet still modest – hotel room offering in the Crater, and heighten Meliá’s commitment to sustainability and respectful exploration of the destination with Ngorongoro Conservation Area being a protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a rare site where wildlife coexists with semi-nomadic Maasai pastoralists.

The newly renovated 56-key hotel will display local artwork and feature neutral tones and traditional designs, coupled with remarkable views across the surrounding untouched landscape and the Crater, and subtle nods to Meliá’s Spanish heritage via guest experiences and culinary concepts. With considered environmental initiatives such as producing the hotel’s own electricity, solar energy and drinking water, employing local Maasai tribe members and collaborating with the Moshi-based NGO Born to Learn, Ngorongoro Lodge will introduce a cultural and eco-conscious hotel for discerning travellers.

Across the Mediterranean, ME Malta will launch on the island’s eastern coast in St Julians in the second half of 2023, presenting a new social and cultural epicentre for cosmopolitan travellers to discover the latest art, culture, music and fashion in the vibrant city. Designed by world-famous architect Zaha Hadid, it will become a new and profound destination to elevate Malta’s urban landscape – and the second ME by Meliá hotel created solely by the late Dame Hadid, following ME Dubai. The hotel’s 140 rooms and suites, spa and meeting spaces will boast bold yet elegant interiors, accompanied by innovative culinary offerings and ME by Meliá’s signature Radio Rooftop Bar where expert mixologists, professional DJs and exciting events will attract local and international guests. With culture at the core of ME by Meliá thanks to its programme ‘The Culture Collective’, and Malta being the official host of EuroPride 2023, this synergy will bring a momentous drive for the destination.

Another ME by Meliá hotel will launch as the brand’s first in the country, with ME Lisbon opening in Q2 2024. Perched up near Parque Eduardo VII, the hotel arrives as the city’s first luxury lifestyle hotel joining the high-end hospitality scene and marks a further milestone for Meliá’s European expansion.

Further afield, ME Guadalajara will open in Q4 2023 as the second ME by Meliá hotel in Mexico as well as the brand’s first urban hotel in Mexico. The brand will bring its unique style, personality and luxury lifestyle approach to one of the most cosmopolitan and cultural cities in the country. ME Guadalajara will comprise 152 rooms and suites, as well as a sky pool and signature rooftop area. In line with other global ME hotels, it will also offer a wide range of outstanding dining experiences.

Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels International’s fourth luxury brand, and currently solely located in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, marks significant news in 2023 with its inaugural European openings: Paradisus Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, in January and Paradisus Salinas, Lanzarote, in March. These resorts will be a blend of the brand’s signature family-friendly luxury approach with Paradisus’ new concept, ‘Destination Inclusive’. A concept that elevates the ‘all-inclusive’ notion to a new level, ensuring that the destination is now an essential part of the holiday experience. Each guest will be able to have a fully unique, immersive and authentic taste of the locality and embrace natural experiences through each resort’s sustainable design and philosophy. Paradisus Salinas will be housed in a building designed by Spanish architect Fernando Higueras, which is part of Lanzarote’s artistic and cultural heritage. The luxury resort will enable guests to discover the island’s culture, explore its natural beauty and delve into a holistic experience.

Exclusive destination experiences include Yoga Masterclass by a cenote – a natural crystal waters lagoon in Mexico – or guided tours through Lanzarote’s most iconic spots designed by artist and nature activist Cesar Manrique will be included for guests who choose to upgrade to the brand’s ‘Reserve’ or Niktè’ top rooms and suites. Paradisus’ The Reserve offers an alternative to the main hotel and instead, is a separate adult-only oasis offering a unique and superior experience, with the most exclusive suites, lounges, private areas and selected restaurants with signature and local cuisine. There is also another equally extraordinary category, the Nikté Superior Upgrades, ideal for families looking for experiences regardless of age, with fully customisable activities for each member of the family.

Heightening the hotel brand’s presence in Asia has been of equal calibre this year, and Meliá is already set to become one of the largest international hotel brands in Vietnam. The forthcoming opening of Gran Meliá Nha Trang in Vega City, Vietnam, in Q2 2023, will reaffirm Meliá’s position in the region and luxury market. Designed to become a symbol of modern architecture, the ultra-luxury hotel’s 99 exclusive beachfront private villas offer elevated space and privacy, with guest experiences pivoting around gastronomy and wellbeing. Meliá’s signature Mediterranean roots are seen through the culinary offering blending Spanish cuisine with local ingredients, accompanied by swimming pools, a Beach Club, a spa and fitness centre for undisturbed escapism.

Across the existing and upcoming portfolio, sustainability is a key component and Mr Escarrer has always encouraged corporate responsibility and sustainability across Meliá’s social, economic and environmental pillars. Having led the S&P’s Global sustainability ranking in 2019 and 2020, Meliá was named the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe for the third consecutive year in 2021, and Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá set new standards for the group’s ongoing eco-commitment. Since its launch this summer, the hotel has received several awards such as the Rethink Award for the best hotel sustainability and rehabilitation project from the Habitat Futura Group, and has been acknowledged as the Best Sustainability initiative in the Balearic Islands, setting a benchmark for hotel-efficiency and decarbonisation in the Biosphere Reserve destination.

Mr André P. Gerondeau, COO of Meliá Hotels International, says “Following the success of Villa Le Blanc, we are delighted to have this level of growth and positioning in the luxury market. We are proudly and deservedly becoming one of the main players in the HNW and UHNW space, and simultaneously reaching all corners of the planet.”

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Endsleigh Partners with Pattern to Protect Students on the Slopes

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Students can now take out personalised Winter Sports protection thanks to a collaboration between education sector specialist Endsleigh Insurance and its partner Pattern.

This innovative approach to Winter Sports insurance is the latest development in the partnership between Endsleigh and Pattern and uses global insurtech MGA Pattern’s insurance platform, to offer students tailored winter sports cover.

Whether snowboarding, skiing, or simply enjoying the apres-ski, this unique cover will protect students against damage to their equipment and provide a refund for unused ski passes in the event of illness and injury.

Alison Meckiffe, chief executive of Endsleigh, said: “If you’re a student who has paid a lot of money for a ski holiday this winter, the last thing you want is anything ruining that trip and throwing that money away, whether it’s a last-minute cancellation due to an injury or damage to your equipment when you arrive. We’re constantly looking for ways to innovate and offer our customers bespoke protections tailored to their specific needs, and our partnership with Pattern helps us easily achieve this.”

With recent OnePoll stats claiming that 57% of adults would rather book activity-filled breaks than beach holidays, the launch of Endsleigh’s new Winter Sports Protection is extremely timely.

The ability to shape insurance to meet students’ individual requirements can now extend beyond skiing in the Winter. With Pattern’s platform, Endsleigh can easily design and roll out any number of protections to address students’ different needs for holidays and breaks throughout the year.

Meitav Harpaz, CEO and co-founder of Pattern Insurance, said: “The new Winter Sports protection we’ve developed with Endsleigh is a great example of how we work with partners who have a unique audience to develop tailored products. This is the second product we are rolling out with Endsleigh, and with the ease of using our platform, we anticipate this new product from Endsleigh will be very popular with students looking for a winter getaway this year.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Means Business Following ASEAN Role

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Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Means Business Following ASEAN Role - TRAVELINDEXPHNOM PENH, Cambodia, December 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has proven it means business through its key supporting role during Cambodia’s term as ASEAN chair.

Now the property, the newest international branded luxury hotel in Phnom Penh, aims to cement its status as the nation’s top destination for corporate travelers.

In its role as ASEAN chair, Cambodia has steered the course of intergovernmental cooperation between the ten member states in the region through several events and meetings held during 2022.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has stepped up to the plate during this period to help ensure the smooth running of proceedings. Proving its credentials as a property that can thrive on the big stage, the hotel hosted some side events and accommodated ministers, delegates, and other political and administrative personnel.

“Our hotel has risen to the occasion in support of ASEAN activities throughout the year is a source of immense pride,” says Juan Mercadante, general manager at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh.

“Hosting such an important event and dignitaries is an inspiring business for a hotel. Everything has to run like clockwork and everyone needs to be at the top of their game. Supporting Cambodia in its role as chair of ASEAN was both an honor and a test. We’d like to think that we passed with flying colors.”

In supporting ASEAN activities, the hotel has reaffirmed its reputation as Cambodia’s most dynamic hotel for business travelers.

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s cultural and business district of Doun Penh, the latest addition from Hyatt is a 30-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance of the Royal Palace, National Museum, and the Tonle Sap riverside. Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh provides business travelers with modern comfort and convenience alongside warm Cambodian hospitality in one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh features 1,400 square meters of meeting and event space for hosting business conferences and social gatherings. The pillarless Regency Ballroom can accommodate up to 490 guests and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the only built-in, full-color LED screen in the city.

Meanwhile, nine meeting suites and social spaces provide flexible arrangements – from a boardroom for 14 people to a reception space for 200 guests.

Additionally, The Poolhouse features an outdoor barbecue area and an open terrace, accommodating up to 70 guests. Most venues offer natural sunlight and come with the latest audiovisual facilities such as smart LED televisions, high-definition video conferencing suites, and Wi-Fi.

“Phnom Penh is set to be a key destination for foreign investors, offering political and economic stability and attractive government investment incentives,” added Mercadante. “With our fantastic facilities, central location, and corporate-savvy staff, Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is well positioned to support this shift.”

About Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh
Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh opened on January 6, 2021, marking the first Hyatt hotel in the Cambodian capital and the debut of the Hyatt Regency brand in the Kingdom of Wonder. With 247 guestrooms including 43 residential-style suites, the new Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is set to become the largest internationally branded hotel in the city. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s cultural and business district of Doun Penh, the latest addition from Hyatt is a 30-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance of the Royal Palace, National Museum, and the Tonle Sap riverside. Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh provides business travelers with modern comfort and convenience alongside warm Cambodian hospitality in one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

About Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt Regency brand prides itself on making travel free from stress and filled with success. More than 195 conveniently located Hyatt Regency urban and resort locations in more than 30 countries around the world serve as the go-to gathering space for every occasion, from efficient personalized, high-touch business meetings to energizing family vacations. The brand offers stress-free environments for seamless gatherings and empathetic service that anticipates guests’ needs. Designed for productivity and peace of mind, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts offer a full range of services and amenities, including the space to work, engage or relax; notable culinary experiences; technology-enabled ways to collaborate; and expert meeting and event planners who can take care of every detail.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News