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LET IT SNOW: Campaign encourages Canadians to ‘Come back to Jamaica’

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Jamaica called for snow. It’s true, the JTB’s Dan Hamilton said, as travel agents trudged into a Toronto venue to see the reveal of tourist board’s new marketing campaign and to meet the minister, Edmund Bartlett, who thanked Canada and the trade for supporting Jamaica, even in the midst of so many pandemic-related difficulties.

“We’re here to tell Canada, ‘thanks for staying the course,’” he said of the island’s No. 3 market (behind the UK and US). “Be proud!”

And while the US may be beyond reach, tourism director Donovan White says Canada, which will send close to 200,000 Canadians this year, is gunning to surpass the UK for No. 2 spot – a rivalry that said he wasn’t personally part of, but happily accepted.

“Angella (regional director for Canada Bennett) assures me that Canada will be back to normal in 2023).”

At the same time, Bartlett reported that Canada would boast a record number of 283,000 air seats to the island in the coming year.

As for Hamilton, he joked that the winter wallop he ordered was simply meant to provide a suitable backdrop for the Jamaica campaign attendees were about to see – and to encourage Canadians to start planning their holidays.The Jamaica “Come Back” campaign invites people to “come back to their best selves” in Jamaica, with several touchpoints, including “come back to…” fun, life, adventure, curious, loving, laid back, craving, breathtaking, mmm, and more.

The approach creates aspirational itineraries tailored to three personas:

• Adventure Seekers, representing a younger demographic discovering Jamaica for the first time

• Family Planners, representing the young family demographic experiencing a long-anticipated family vacation, and

• Seasoned Travellers, representing an older demographic that has likely visited Jamaica previously.

The itineraries are each designed to highlight “mouth-watering moments to whet potential visitors’ appetite for a genuine Jamaica vacation.”

“In Jamaica, we’ve been recording arrivals that exceed pre-COVID levels, demonstrating that our travel sector is resilient and so are travellers,” Bartlett said earlier. “While everyone has been impacted by the pandemic, we want to let everyone know that Jamaica is good for the spirit. Therefore, it is the ideal destination to help people rediscover their own sense of adventure, natural curiosity, human connection, and ultimately realize their most valuable human potential.”

Or as it he also put it, “Find a piece of yourself.”

The campaign showcases Jamaica’s picturesque natural attractions and its friendly, welcoming people working together to help visitors live their best lives. The campaign was filmed utilizing over 50 local Jamaican crew members across locations in Jamaica spanning from Portland to St. Ann. Real couples and a real family were cast for the campaign so it would portray an authentic experience. Campaign music is also an original score created by Jamaican music producers.

“We felt it was important to really show people what Jamaica is all about and what differentiates it from other competitive destinations,” White said. “While we have plenty of sun, sea, and sand, it’s our uniquely Jamaican culture from our music to our food to our people that really distinguishes us. It’s the reason travellers choose to come here – so they can experience and connect with our vibe that comes alive… We’re inviting to shake off the cobwebs and come back to Jamaica.

He added with pride, “We really poured our heart into this!”

Meeting the minister; photo – George Pimentel

Contest

To accompany the campaign, during November Canadian travel agents are invited to test their knowledge of Jamaica by correctly identifying resort areas featured in 12 images of iconic sites and locations showcased in the ‘Come Back’ campaign. The top 10 winners will receive a $50 Amazon gift card and Jamaica-branded gifts. Winners of the “Come Back to Jamaica Photo Contest” will be announced on Dec. 12. The entry page can be found HERE.

And to view the 30-second commercial currently airing in the Canadian market, click HERE.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TOMMY BAHAMA BREEZES INTO RESORT BUSINESS

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Breezy island clothing retailer come lifestyle brand Tommy Bahama has plans to open its first resort, adding a new plank to its portfolio of 160 retail locations, which includes stores, bars, and restaurants worldwide.

The Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa will debut in Indian Wells, Ca. in late 2023.

Built on its popular line of men’s and women’s sportswear, the 30-year-old brand, has expanded to include a furnishings collection, and has established a relaxed, sophisticated style that the company believes uniquely positions it to crossover into the resort business.

“This is a natural progression of the Tommy Bahama brand,” says company CEO Doug Wood. “We have been talking about the idea of a Tommy Bahama resort for decades and believe that our brand’s aesthetic, successful $100-million food and beverage business, and guest feedback support our brand’s evolution into new areas of the hospitality industry. The Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa is a great way for us to extend our brand and give our guests the resort experience they are looking for.”

Located in in Indian Wells in the Coachella Valley (among the greater Palm Springs collection of communities), The Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa will offer 215 custom appointed rooms including 23 suites, three resort style pools, and signature treatments at the 1,100-sq. m. spa. The resort will cater to leisure travellers, groups, events, retreats, and weddings, as well as a locals’ hangout.

The entire property will receive the Tommy Bahama design aesthetic and will continue to be managed by CoralTree Hospitality, a division of Lowe, which will be making a minority equity investment in the project.

Lowe purchased Miramonte in 2020 and invested capital to restore the property, including creating the signature Olive Grove outdoor lounge and dining area. For the final phase of the renovation, Lowe will infuse the Tommy Bahama lifestyle and design aesthetic into the resort, re-imagining the public spaces, debuting a new concept indoor/outdoor restaurant, transforming the bar experience, and opening a retail boutique. The resort will remain open during the transformation.

“We’ve always known that our style of food and beverage is transportive. Our unique approach to elevated yet relaxed service is ideal for resorts and delivering our brand of hospitality,” says Rob Goldberg, Tommy Bahama’s EVP of Resorts, Restaurants and Bars. “To have the opportunity to deliver those experiences in a resort setting gives us a much broader canvas to paint on as we create new experiences for our guests.”

The company says it sees potential for additional resorts in the future.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Travel Industry Today Inspirations

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Words are important, they can make us think – build us up – give us hope and courage and happiness, and equally they can destroy our confidence, and plunge us into despair.  At Travel Industry Today we offer a selection of words and thoughts that have inspired us, made us think, smile, or laugh out loud. Our readers tell us they love them and occasionally even send us their own suggestions.  Here, in no particular order, are our inspirations.  Enjoy!.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach to Introduce Locally-Inspired Luxury Hospitality

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Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach to Introduce Locally-Inspired Luxury Hospitality - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXPattaya, Thailand, November 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Andaz, Hyatt’s luxury and lifestyle brand, will make its highly-anticipated debut in Thailand with the opening of a stylish new seafront resort that will introduce explorers to a new and unspoiled stretch of Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2023, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach has been woven into the site of a private family estate, amid lush woodlands and heritage buildings at Tawanron Beach, on the country’s stunning sunset coast.

Nestled in a 6.4-hectare plot of beachfront land between the vibrant resort town of Pattaya and the charming fishing village of Bang Saray, this unique beachfront retreat will bring the rich history of the area to life. Crafted by A49, the award-winning architecture studio, the project has retained the mature gardens and fully-grown trees – including the awe-inspiring rain tree that greets guests upon arrival. Exquisite Thai teakwood houses that have stood on the site for more than 70 years have now been fully restored, while natural, locally-sourced materials and handmade arts and crafts have been incorporated throughout this contemporary, five-star resort.

Having been warmly welcomed into the Rain Tree Court, with its reflective pond and enchanting ambience, visitors can unwind at the Village Square, the social heart and soul of the resort. From here, guests can discover myriad ways to relax and reconnect with the local culture, from immersive excursions and activities to authentic dining, wellness, family experiences and more.

The 204 rooms and suites (starting from 50 sqm) have been arranged in intimate clusters around the gardens and come adorned with locally-inspired interiors, walk-in rain showers and a balcony or terrace with relaxing daybed. The Lagoon Access rooms let guests step straight into the rippling waters of the resort pool, the Pool Suites allow guests to cool off with a private dip at any time day, and the Beachfront Suites are set directly on the soft sand. For truly exquisite experiences, two heritage houses have been transformed into the resort’s most highly prized accommodation: a duplex four-bedroom Manor House and a breath-taking six-bedroom Presidential Heritage House, each of which promises luxurious living with private pools, courtyards, butler service and ocean views.

Gastronomy is an integral element of the Andaz experience and the resort features a selection of six exceptional restaurants and bars. Wok Wok specialises in Thai and Asian wok-fried dishes, La Cucina is an authentic Italian trattoria, Village Butcher is a premium steakhouse where prime meats are cooked on a pira charcoal grill, and Fish Club is a casual seafront restaurant where fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood is expertly cooked by on a coconut husk grill. Chefs will pick natural ingredients, including native herbs and spices, from the onsite organic garden.

The Teak Lounge is where guests can sit back and enjoy refreshments under the magnificent rain tree, and Ruen Thai is a traditional teahouse with indoor and outdoor seating. This restored two-level heritage building can also host intimate events. For larger occasions, the naturally-lit 300 sqm Garden Pavilion features floor-to-ceiling windows, a pre-function foyer, outdoor terrace and show kitchen.

Three shimmering swimming pools provide endless opportunities for relaxation, including a peaceful lap pool, a freeform family pool next to the bright kids’ club, and a beachfront pool that sets the stage for sunset cocktails and sparkling parties. The Panpuri Spa is a luxurious haven of tranquility where guests can experience soothing therapies with organic skincare products, and the fitness centre features the latest Technogym equipment and a rejuvenating yoga room.

Sustainability is integrated throughout the resort; rainwater is captured and used to keep the gardens fresh, while motion sensor LED lighting and smart AC systems reduce energy use. Guests can also rest assured that Andaz operates a no single-use plastic policy and only uses responsibly farmed ingredients in its restaurants, including MSC & ASC approved seafood.

“We are delighted to unveil Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, our inaugural Andaz branded luxury and lifestyle resort in Thailand. ‘Andaz’ is a Hindi word meaning ‘personal style’ and this unique, locally-inspired resort will celebrate the individuality of every guest. Our aim is to highlight the charm and personality of this enchanting destination – an as-yet-unexplored corner of Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. With its low-rise clusters of rooms and villas, shady courtyards, sparkling pools and creative event spaces, this outstanding property will allow guests to connect with the local culture, true to the spirit of the Andaz brand and Hyatt’s Boundless Collection,” commented Carina Chorengel, Senior Vice President – Commercial, Asia Pacific, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts.

Located just a short distance from Pattaya’s main tourism hotspots and two hours’ drive from Bangkok, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is easily accessible yet secluded enough to retain a sense of deep tranquility. Suvarnabhumi Airport is only 90 minutes’ drive away and U-Tapao Airport can be reached in only 20 minutes.

For more information, please visit www.andazpattaya.com

About Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach
Nestled on a serene stretch of beach on Thailand’s sunset coast, Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is a luxury and lifestyle resort that seamlessly weaves world-class hospitality with authentic Thai heritage. A former private seafront estate with mature gardens, shady trees and heritage houses has been sensitively reimagined as a 204-room and villa resort, including six restaurants and bars, three swimming pools, inspiring event spaces, a kids’ club and more. Global explorers, including experience-seeking couples and families, can reconnect with nature, discover Thai culture and enjoy myriad activities, all just a short drive from Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

About Andaz
Global in scale while local in perspective, the Andaz brand of luxury lifestyle hotels weaves the sights, sounds, and tastes of each property’s surroundings for a distinctively local experience. Through thoughtful, unscripted service tailored for travelers, Andaz hotels enable guests to go beyond the familiar and satiate their curiosity while immersing them in the spirit of the eclectic culture around them. There are currently 25 Andaz hotels: Andaz 5th Avenue and Andaz Wall Street in New York, Andaz San Diego, Andaz West Hollywood, Andaz Napa, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Andaz Savannah, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, Andaz London Liverpool Street, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere, Andaz Singapore, Andaz Delhi, Andaz Xintiandi in Shanghai, Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Andaz Seoul Gangnam, Andaz Xiamen, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Andaz Dubai The Palm, Andaz Shenzhen Bay, and Andaz Bali.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2022, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,150 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 71 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes the Park Hyatt®, Miraval®, Grand Hyatt®, Alila®, Andaz®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Ziva™, Hyatt Zilara™, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, Caption by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt™, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Place®, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brands, as well as resort and hotel brands under the AMR™ Collection, including Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Vivid Hotels & Resorts®, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IT’S ANAHEIM TIME: Roadshow returns to Canada

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Visit Anaheim’s long-delayed road show is travelling across Canada this week, having pulled in for its first pit stop in Toronto on Monday. Events continue in Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver, with the organization’s VP of Tourism Pepe Avila telling the robust crowd at the W Hotel in Toronto that the destination has certainly missed its Canadian friends during the pandemic.

Avila, accompanied by 19 tourism partners, including close to a dozen hotel suppliers, as well as attractions like Knotts Berry Farm and Legoland and sponsor WestJet/WestJet Vacations, updated the trade audience with the latest news on the Southern California destination, best known as the home of Disneyland.

Indeed, almost all the hotel reps were quick to tout proximity – “we’re just across the street…” – to Disneyland as a major selling point of their properties.

However, Visit Anaheim Manager of Tourism Development Kathy Nishimura insisted that the city, located about an hour south of Los Angeles, is much more than Disney.

“We keep evolving,” she said, adding, “a lot has changed during the pandemic.”

For example, the openings of a Westin, JW Marriott and Viv Hotel – all boasting rooftop patios for a different view of the city – have increased the number of four-diamond properties in Anaheim to five.

The city also has a thriving craft beer scene, with over 20 breweries in town, and a unique dining culture, including Steelcraft Garden Grove, a food hall comprised of shipping containers.

Anaheim suppliers

The best is yet to come, however, Nishimura says, with next year’s ground-breaking for the US$4-billion “oc Vibe,” a one-of-a-kind, mixed-use, master-planned community and entertainment destination near the Honda Center that will feature eight hectares of public space, including plazas and trails, plus 35 restaurants and other entertainment options.

The significant development will be a “cultural gathering for all of Orange County,” she says, with a phased opening starting in 2024 through 2028.

Of course, there’s always Disney, with the theme park giant set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company in 2023, and the forthcoming Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and recent developments including the opening of the Avengers Campus.

Anaheim’s John Wayne airport, meanwhile, is the recipient of new flights from Calgary (WestJet) and Vancouver (Air Canada), the latter also served by WS.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Set to Expand Portfolio With Expected Addition of 30 Select Service Hotels in Greater China by the End of 2023

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Fairfield by Marriott Hangzhou Xihu District
AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou

Marriott International, Inc., today announced plans to expand its select service portfolio in Greater China with the expected addition of 30 hotels in the segment by the end of 2023. The additions are fueled by the strong demand for Marriott’s select service accommodations in emerging destinations and complement an existing portfolio of more than 460 properties in the region. Marriott’s select service portfolio currently includes the following brands spanning across 67 cities in Greater China: Moxy Hotels, Fairfield by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, AC Hotels by Marriott, Aloft Hotels, and Element Hotels.

Marriott’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands offers unique brand choices to capture changes in consumer needs and characteristics across different destinations. The expansion of the select service portfolio in the region will elevate consumers’ travel choices in China’s second-and third-tier cities, such as Foshan and Changchun, while expanding its presence in first-tier cities like Shanghai.

“Representing over 50 percent of Marriott International hotels expected to open in Greater China across 2022 and 2023, our select-service brand portfolio is a growth engine for the company as we continue to expand,” said Gavin Yu, Chief Development Officer, Greater China, Marriott International. “With a well-defined ‘Brand + Destination’ development strategy, we see great growth potential in providing approachable and moderately priced choices across emerging destinations. We plan to continue to work with our owners and franchisees to enhance our select-service brands portfolio through new-builds and conversions in destinations where our guests aspire to travel.”

The company is also enhancing its strategic positioning in Greater China through dual-brand projects and its franchise-plus model. The unique design of the dual-brand model will accommodate travelers’ growing desires for flexible accommodation by offering consumers more choices. In 2022, the company signed six dual-brand hotel projects representing 14 hotels, among which three are under the Fairfield by Marriott brand and two under the Four Points by Sheraton brand. With the franchise-plus model, Marriott helps to streamline hotel openings and initial stage operations and uphold brand quality. The model involves Marriott working closely with franchisees and recommending candidates for the initial general manager who, once employed by the franchisee, works toward the hotel opening and throughout the initial year of operations by leveraging Marriott’s supports, system, and resources.

Upcoming anticipated openings across Greater China include:

The highly anticipated brand debut of AC Hotels by Marriott in Suzhou is expected to welcome guests in December 2022 with a sleek, purposeful hotel design that offers an effortless experience to provide guests with everything they need. Travelers heading to iconic destinations such as Chengdu and Wuhan can soon enjoy AC Hotels’ refined experience through seamless service, curated furnishings and artwork, and thoughtful programming.

The energetic Moxy Hotels brand, which currently has six existing hotels in five Chinese cities including Shanghai, Shenzhen, Xi’an, etc., is set to bring its “Play On” spirit to more cities through its anticipated debut in Suzhou and Xi’an. Preparing for its future entry into Chongqing and Ningbo, Moxy Hotels is expected to introduce a Chinese version of its design prototype, incorporating local influences into its vibrant, social interior spaces to offer guest experiences that are always buzzing with high energy.

Evoking the feelings of calming simplicity, Fairfield by Marriott brings comfort to travelers who look for quality and value with its contemporary and uplifting design inspired by natural surroundings. The opening of the brand’s 150th hotel in Greater China — Fairfield by Marriott Hangzhou Xihu District — earlier this year marked the company’s ambition to extend diversified, affordable travel experiences and products to guests. In 2023, 10 Fairfield by Marriott hotels are expected to enter several niche destinations in eastern China, including the county-level cities Kunshan and Zhuji, which are the respective origins of Kunqu Opera and Wuyue culture.

The trailblazing Courtyard by Marriott brand expects to celebrate its 50th hotel milestone in the Chinese market in the middle of 2023, with anticipated property additions in Chongli, the location for skiing events during the 2022 Winter Olympics, as well as in Jiuzhaigou, a nature reserve designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The hotels will allow guests to escape to hidden gems across the country and offer an inviting hospitality experience for business and leisure guests to smoothly shift from work to relaxation.

Four Points by Sheraton, with the most robust share of Marriott’s select-service pipeline in Greater China, enables guests to kick back and relax while enjoying the brand’s signature Best Brews® program offering local beers on-tap. The brand expects to accelerate its growth in Greater China with over five planned openings in 2023. Four Points by Sheraton will offer an authentic sense of the local culture paired with friendly, genuine service to allow guests to unwind in a casual environment.

The future-focused brand for music enthusiasts and tech-savvy travelers, Aloft Hotels, is set to expand its footprint in 2023 with two hotel openings in Beijing and Yantai. The brand will deliver a “different by design” experience to bring people together through a lively social scene and innovative music programming.

In addition, travelers will soon be able to immerse themselves in a well-balanced and nature-influenced environment with the planned opening of Element Hotels in Guangzhou Baiyun in 2023.

Marriott International is well-positioned in Greater China with over 460 existing properties, spanning 23 brands in 120 cities and destinations. With a vision to deliver a one-of-a-kind travel experience, Marriott is committed to inspiring travel and connecting with guests through its award-winning travel program, Marriott Bonvoy, and its unparalleled portfolio of 30 leading brands.

Note on forward-looking statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected unit growth; expected hotel and other project openings and brand debuts in certain markets; growth plans and expectations; demand trends for certain types of lodging products; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contacts
Jessica Zhou
Senior Director of Communications, Greater China
Marriott International
Jessica.Zhou@Marriott.com

Doris Ye
Communications Manager, Greater China
Marriott International
Doris.Ye2@Marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Azerai Can Tho Introduces New Executive Chef Bernardo Cabrera

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Can Tho, Vietnam, November 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Azerai Can Tho has appointed a new Executive Chef, Mexican national Bernardo Cabrera, to head the culinary program at one of the Mekong Delta’s most exclusive dining destinations.

Cabrera will draw on his past experiences working in three-Michelin-star restaurants Ryu Gin in Japan, where he served under renowned Chef Seiji Yamamoto, and Geranium in Copenhagen, Denmark. The latter was named the No. 1 restaurant in the world in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022, and Cabrera trained there with celebrated Chef Rasmus Kofoed.

In 2018, Cabrera moved to Vietnam, where he joined the culinary team at Amanoi. That experience marked his second stint with Aman Resorts after he joined Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos islands starting in 2012. He also led the culinary operation at Soho Beach House Canouan in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“The Mekong Delta is world-famous for its abundant fruit orchards, cacao farms and delicious local cuisine. Food here is a central part of life – much like it was during my childhood growing up in Mexico – and I look forward to sharing my passion for truly memorable meals with our guests at Azerai Can Tho,” Cabrera said.

Cabrera will oversee the entire range of Azerai Can Tho’s culinary program, including its popular multi-day special dining events featuring renowned Vietnamese and international guest chefs.

Azerai Can Tho is home to two formal dining venues. The Cafe serves traditional Vietnamese and Western-style breakfasts; regional Vietnamese cuisine, sandwiches and salads for lunch; and tapas-style dinner with new and old world wines. The Grill offers imported premium meats and local seafood in a relaxed and informal setting.

Two-and-a-half hours by car from Ho Chi Minh City, Azerai Can Tho is situated on a private islet in the Mekong Delta that is accessible only by boat. The resort’s lush, green grounds cover more than eight hectares and support 60 rooms in addition to five private pool villas that deliver residential-style accommodation.

Azerai Can Tho was named one of the “Top 25 Resorts in Asia” (No. 13) in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards, becoming one of only six properties in Vietnam to make the popular annual “best-of” list. The awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

About Azerai
Azerai is a new story and brand of resorts offering guests simple elegance, refined design and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of the Persian word caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

Azerai Can Tho is a peaceful retreat set on a lush islet in the Mekong Delta. Azerai Ke Ga Bay marks the brand’s first oceanfront resort. And Azerai La Residence, Hue is a historic city resort overlooking the Perfume River in Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Chiang Mai Launches YHI Spa

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Chiang Mai, Thailand, November 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Chiang Mai, an urban hotel that opened in April, has unveiled its YHI spa with a menu replete with treatments for women, men and children such as massages that aim to combat cellulite, ease muscle tension and prevent hyperactivity.

Featuring seven treatment rooms designed in an underwater theme and a Thai herbal sauna and steam, the hotel’s spa is the third YHI Spa to open in Thailand. Meliá Hotels International’s signature spa debuted in Thailand at Meliá Koh Samui in early 2020 before Meliá Phuket Mai Khao launched its spa in late 2021.

Inspired by the goddess YHI, responsible for life and light and personified by the sun for the Karraur First Nations people in Australia, Meliá Chiang Mai’s spa uses ancient Asian healing wisdom combined with modern wellness techniques. Its broad spectrum of treatments include massages, body scrubs and wraps, facials, hydrotherapy, manicures and pedicures.

YHI Spa’s 90-minute signature treatment starts out with Tok Sen, an ancient Northern Thai massage that relaxes the muscles with the rhythmic tapping motion of a wooden hammer and stick made from a tamarind tree. The treatment transitions into a unique Spanish massage that strives to reduce cellulite, tighten the skin’s flabbiness, and relieve fatigue, tension, and muscle spasms.

The “360° Spa Signature Treatment” comprises 45 minutes of yoga and meditation, a 30-minute herbal blended steam, a 90-minute aromatic massage with Thai herbal compress balls, and a 360° cuisine set menu created via a cooking process to minimize food waste and reduce greenhouse emissions.

The 120-minute “Spa Rituals” includes “Couple Indulgence” for two beginning with a milky bath followed by an aromatic massage. “Balance Wellbeing” kicks off with a body mask followed by a detox massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to ease anxiety, and an oriental foot massage. The “Fit for Men” package affords a deep tissue massage to release stress and muscle tension and a facial to pamper the skin.

The 90-minute “Body Sensation” treatments include “Well Release” that treats sunburn and calms the skin with a soothing body wrap, a scalp massage and facial treatment. Under “Well Recovery”, a Cymbopogon body scrub to remove dead skin cells precedes a detox massage. “Well Restore” brings together a traditional Thai massage focused on pressure points and a hot oil scalp massage.

YHI Spa pays tribute to Thailand with massages such as “Traditional Thai” that focuses on the body’s pressure points and “Thai Lanna”, underscored by a Thai herbal ball compress massage to relieve aches and pain. Other 60 and 90-minute massages include anti-stress, aromatic, deep tissue, detox, and foot massages.

Various body exfoliation, body wrap and facial treatments are on offer to nourish and brighten the skin such as a “White Tea and Camellia Body Polish” and the “Ageless Facial Treatment” that incorporates natural antioxidants from water lily, licorice and cactus extracts.

The herbal blended steam, sauna, milky bath and aromatic herbal bath to alleviate stress and stimulate blood circulation are among YHI Spa’s 30-minute hydrotherapy sessions.

For children aged six to 12 years, a 45-minute or 60-minute “Kids Therapy” aims to prevent hyperactivity by starting with stretching and animal yoga poses before a gentle massage with HARNN coconut oils to stop skin irritation.

YHI Spa’s treatments are based on organic Thai wellness brand HARNN’s products, made with natural ingredients via methods handed down the generations of Thai artisans.

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

BookOutdoors Partners with Pattern Insurance

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BookOutdoors has today announced its partnership with global Insurtech MGA Pattern. Together, they are making it easier for customers to confidently book outdoor travel by offering relevant and affordable travel and weather insurance.

Pattern’s platform enables BookOutdoors to offer different combinations of the most relevant protections, embedded directly into the purchase path.  Rain Protection is one of the most highly relevant products in outdoor bookings, as it gives customers the confidence to book their outdoor vacation, knowing they have the option to cancel their booking and receive a full refund if an eligible weather event is in the forecast.

This new partnership supports BookOutdoors belief that every booking should be safe and hassle-free. With thousands of places to stay, from camping and glamping to RV resorts and cabins, and adding more every day.  BookOutdoors want customers to have an entirely personalized experience. Following their vision, Pattern is helping them to embed relevant, real-time insurance into their customer journey.

Brian Nolan, Co-Founder and CEO, says: “BookOutdoors mission is to make it easier to book outdoor travel. We’ve got thousands of remarkable places to stay that are not only camping or RV parks. With a simple integration and dynamic product offering, Pattern allowed us to get up and running with insurance in no time. Thanks to Pattern, we are now able to protect the outdoor experiences for our customers with hassle-free, personalized and affordable insurance.

Meitav Harpaz, CEO and Co-Founder of Pattern Insurance, says: “We love the focus on quality and experience. Pattern’s solution aligns with BookOutdoors’ goal of making outdoor experiences easy to book. Our platform enables them to easily offer real-time, relevant, personalized insurance. Embedding insurance creates a new source of income for BookOutdoors while providing RVers, Campers, and Glampers with the protection they desire.”

About Pattern
Pattern is a global InsurTech MGA that empowers online travel, recreation, and events companies to design, build and distribute innovative insurance offerings seamlessly in their customer journey. Pattern protections address risks associated with a change of plans, travel disruption, inclement weather and medical assistance, amongst others, to build consumer confidence and boost revenues. Pattern parametric protections trigger a customer compensation process automatically when a covered event happens.

About BookOutdoors
Driven by the belief that the future is brighter when everyone spends more time outdoors, BookOutdoors makes planning and booking outdoor travel a more joyful, seamless experience, while fueling the growth and success of its partners. Guests can search and book thousands of designated tent campgrounds, RV parks, cabins, glamping resorts, and other outdoor stays, all with no membership or booking fees. For property owners, BookOutdoors works alongside their existing booking channels to help eliminate unsold site nights and deliver additional value.

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MUU Hotels and Resorts Announces Flagship Property MUU Bangkok

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MUU Hotels and Resorts Announces Flagship Property MUU Bangkok - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comBangkok, Thailand, November 15, 2022 / TTRAVELINDEX / MUU Hotels & Resorts announces the opening of its first property, MUU Bangkok, marking the brand’s debut in the Kingdom. A play on the Thai word for community and kinship, MUU transforms the luxury hotel experience into something personable, yet constantly evolving around the wants, needs and desires of its guests and the community in which each property exists. A place where suits and pajamas can share the same space comfortably, each one enjoying moments of happiness, made better through warm, uncompromised service and contemporary design.

Creative dynamism, warmth, thoughtful engagement and unpretentious quality are the pillars of the MUU brand. Each property will stand out in exciting and authentic ways bringing quality to all aspects of service, experience, and design. The central focus is on human interaction and making guests comfortable while taking care of their needs. In essence making the world a better place for its guests and the community MUU calls home.

“We want to create a sense of community for and with our guests, both through the hotel spaces and through concierge-like recommendations of what’s happening around our property,” says Christian O.H. Zunk, Group General Manager of MUU Hotels, adding that “the idea of constantly innovating and transforming, so that regular guests can always expect to experience something new upon their return, is also key to our brand.”

The 148-room MUU Bangkok, part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World community, sits in the middle of Bangkok’s tony neighbourhood of Thong Lo with views of the bustling cityscape. Packed with hip bars, award-winning restaurants, cool cafes and buzzing community hangouts, Thong Lo is where the bold, beautiful, and creative live and thrive. The adjacent high-end Eight lifestyle mall also adds a sophisticated layer of community spirit to the guest experience. Sitting between Bangkok’s main roads of Sukhumvit and Petchaburi gives guests easy access to the airport and the BTS Skytrain system to explore the city’s other vibrant neighbourhoods.

Accommodation comprises spacious rooms, suites and residences starting at the 37-sqm Deluxe King and going up to the 180-sqm spectacular Thong Lo Suite, which includes a spacious private terrace. With modern amenities and friendly, personalised service, the contemporary lifestyle-oriented residences ranging from the 52-sqm One Bedroom Residence to the 170-sqm Three Bedroom Residence with Terrace are ideal for extended stays. Each self-contained sanctuary has contemporary design cues accessorised with warm timber floorings, a sumptuous king-sized bed, comfortable sofa seating and marble coffee table, and spacious marble bathrooms stocked with eco-friendly amenities.

Also tapping into the communal vibe are two restaurants and two bars, including a speakeasy, a high-tech gym and a rooftop swimming pool. Otto Italian Restaurant opens onto the expansive pool terrace, serving classic and modern Italian cuisine paired with an extensive wine list. One level below, La Sala di Otto is an art-deco sanctuary with a choice of plush seating and private alcoves, perfect for a gathering of family or friends to enjoy a modern Italian-style grill experience with crafted organic wines.

With comfortable outdoor seating around the double infinity-edged pool, Slow Bar is ideal for an aperitif or a post-dinner drink with its fine selection of crafted cocktails and fine wines and a delicious menu of classic bar bites. Hidden away on the same level, 008 Bar is a cosy speakeasy bar offering rare whiskies and signature cocktails from the Prohibition era modified for today’s palate.

All through November the hotel is in a soft opening phase and will officially open on 1 December 2022. Room rates start from THB 6,000++ per night and includes daily breakfast.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News