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Best Western Hotels and Resorts Honored in Travelers Choice Awards

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Best Western Hotels and Resorts Honored in Travelers Choice Awards

Bangkok, Thailand, July 8, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts is celebrating after 31 of its properties in Asia (Southeast Asia and Japan) were honored in the 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards! Hotels and resorts in eight countries – Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam – won this prestigious title this year, reflecting Best Western’s region-wide commitment to service excellence.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards celebrate the Tripadvisor community’s most loved hotels, resorts, restaurants, destinations, attractions and activities around the world. The winners are selected based on the quality and quantity of their online reviews and ratings, so the awards are a genuine reflection of travelers’ opinions, rather than the views of a panel of judges.

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

Best Western’s award winners cover eight of the group’s industry-leading brands: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, BW Premier Collection®, BW Signature Collection®, SureStay® and SureStay Plus®. This shows how the company is committed to upholding exceptional standards in all sectors of the market, from economy to upscale.

“We are thrilled that so many of Best Western’s hotels and resorts in Asia have been honored in the 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. The last 15 months have created unprecedented upheaval for everyone involved in the hospitality industry, but we’re very proud that our properties have risen to meet these personal and operational challenges, and continue to deliver the heartfelt, caring service for which our brand is famous,” said Erwann Mahe, Managing Director of International Operations – Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts.

“Tripadvisor’s awards are always especially pleasing to receive, as they are based on the actual experiences and opinions of our guests. The fact that we achieved so many Travelers’ Choice Awards this year is real vote of confidence, and shows that our hotels are continuing to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. I would like to thank every one of our team members for their amazing efforts in the last 12 months,” Erwann added.

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

The Travelers’ Choice Award winners represent the most exceptional hotels and resorts around the world, in terms of their Tripadvisor reviews and ratings over a 12-month period. They are among the top 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor.

The full list of Best Western’s Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winners is as follows:

Indonesia

  • Best Western Kamala Jimbaran, Bali
  • Best Western Kindai Hotel, Banjarmasin
  • Best Western Mangga Dua Hotel & Residence, Jakarta
  • Best Western Senayan, Jakarta
  • Best Western The Lagoon Hotel, Manado
  • Best Western Premier Agung Resort, Ubud, Bali
  • Best Western Premier La Grande Hotel, Bandung
  • Best Western Premier Solo Baru, Surakarta
  • Best Western Premier The Hive, Jakarta

Japan

  • Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara
  • Best Western Okinawa Kouki Beach
  • Best Western Okinawa Onna Beach
  • Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto
  • Best Western Yokohama
  • Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Chitose
  • Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Osaka Kitahama
  • The Hotel Nagasaki, BW Premier Collection by Best Western

Laos

  • SureStay Hotel by Best Western Vientiane

Malaysia

  • Best Western i-City Shah Alam

Myanmar

  • Best Western Chinatown Hotel, Yangon
  • Best Western Green Hill Hotel, Yangon

Thailand

  • Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort
  • Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa
  • Best Western Plus At 20 Sukhumvit
  • Amaranth Suvarnabhumi Airport, BW Premier Collection by Best Western
  • SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sukhumvit 2
  • Tawaravadee Resort, BW Signature Collection by Best Western
  • Vīb Best Western Sanam Pao

The Philippines

  • Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort, Panglao
  • SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western AC LUXE Angeles City

Vietnam

  • Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc

For more information about Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia, please visit www.BestWesternAsia.com.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott Bonvoy Brings Two Distinctive Well-Being Experiences to Anaheim with the Debut of The Westin Anaheim Resort & Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center

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Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 brands, award-winning travel program and endless experiences, continues to propel its footprint in Anaheim, California with the opening of The Westin Anaheim Resort and Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center.

As the global hospitality leader in wellness for more than a decade, Westin’s newest outpost in Anaheim boasts state-of-the-art amenities for well-being and relaxation, just steps from Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park. Just three blocks away, Element by Westin®’s newest longer stay property is designed with a focus on sustainability and well-being, ideal for families and groups who want to maintain a balanced lifestyle while traveling. The two hotels are debuting on the heels of last summer’s opening of the nearby JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort and add to Marriott Bonvoy’s growing portfolio of 30 hotels in Anaheim, a destination built on imagination.

“SoCal is looking brighter than ever and as summer travel picks up, we’re thrilled to be able to welcome guests to The Westin Anaheim Resort and Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center – two distinctly unique experiences rooted in well-being,” said Jason Nuell, Senior Vice President, Premium Brands, Marriott International. “The new hotels seamlessly balance the excitement of the destination with the wellness promise that each brand is known for, giving mindful travelers new ways to experience Anaheim. With these two new openings, we’re excited to continue to expand Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio footprint in the destination in order to provide travelers with even more opportunities for meaningful connections and moments of self-discovery.”

The Westin Anaheim Resort Debuts as a Haven of Well-Being in the Heart of the Iconic California Destination

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The Westin Anaheim Resort

With the essence of the hotel’s heritage and design rooted in Anaheim’s citrus history, the newly built AAA Four-Diamond Westin Anaheim Resort occupies eight lush acres and features a modern design inspired by Anaheim’s historic orange grove roots. This latest hotel features 618 stylish guest rooms including 121 suites, a resort-style heated outdoor pool with five private cabanas, and seven signature restaurants and bars, including Anaheim’s only exclusive rooftop bar overlooking Disneyland® Resort.

The brand’s signature 2,860-square-foot WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio is outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment including Peloton bikes, TRX functional training equipment and the Westin brand’s new bespoke Hypervolt recovery station, as part of a first-ever hotel partnership with Hyperice in order to support a 360-degree well-being regimen. The hotel offers additional signature well-being programs and amenities including a Sleep Well Lavender Balm bedside amenity, a curated Sleep Well Menu, RunWESTIN™ three- and five-mile running routes, Heavenly® bath amenities and streamlined clutter-free meeting workstations.

The Westin Anaheim Resort’s Family programs were designed to ignite wonder and spark curiosity. At check in, children will be welcomed with a Westin Family Travel Journal, a Local Activity Guide full of engaging activities for kids and special resort plush toy. Additionally, the hotel features 23 meeting rooms totaling 47,542 square feet of customizable and high-tech meeting space including a 16,120-square-foot grand ballroom.

Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center Offers a New Way for Travelers to Relax, Refresh and Connect

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Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center
Studio Rendering

Element Hotels has redefined the longer stay experience with a design philosophy that encourages guests to recharge and find focus. This approach is seen throughout the 174-room Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center, located at 1600 South Clementine Street. Guest rooms at the longer-stay, eco-friendly hotel feature the brand’s signature fully equipped kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms, along with Heavenly® Beds, high-speed Wi-Fi and streaming services. The Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center features an assortment of suites, including family-friendly Kids Suites which offer bunk beds.

Element Hotels aims to inspire guests to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle while on the road by offering a complimentary Rise breakfast every morning featuring a make-your-own parfait yogurt station, a fresh range of whole fruits and other healthy options. Those looking to keep up with their fitness routine can enjoy the 900-square-foot Motion Fitness center, open 24/7. Additional hotel amenities include a heated outdoor saline pool, an outdoor patio complete with seating and two barbecue grills, a 24/7 Market and complimentary bike rentals through Element’s signature Bikes to Borrow program.

Guests visiting any of these hotels can enjoy the advantages of Marriott Bonvoy’s award-winning loyalty program where members enjoy exclusive benefits including free Wi-Fi, member-only rates and contactless experiences with the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, achieve elite status recognition and earn points toward free nights at the more than 7,600 properties around the world and more than 30,000 premium home rentals with every qualifying stay.

For more information on these new openings and Marriott Bonvoy, enroll in the loyalty program for free, or to book directly, visit MarriottBonvoy.com.

About Westin Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in wellness for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s Six Pillars of Well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At 225 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories guests can experience wellness offerings that include the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly Bed, a game-changing gear lending program, TRX fitness equipment in the signature WestinWORKOUT™ Fitness Studios, delicious and nutritious menu offerings, and more. Stay connected to Westin on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy™, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

About Element by Westin®
With more than 70 hotels across North America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia Pacific, Element Hotels is designed for today’s healthy, active traveler who wants to maintain the balance of daily routines while on the road. Offering many of the comforts of home, Element caters to those looking to stay both short and long-term. All hotels have an outdoor-inspired, sustainability-focused design philosophy and feature spacious and airy guest rooms with in-room kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, and signature Heavenly® Beds. The brand’s signature amenities include a complimentary healthful Rise breakfast and a Relax evening reception. Always prioritizing guest wellness, all hotels are equipped with 24/7 Motion Fitness centers, all-natural saline pools and a Bikes to Borrow program. Further increasing flexibility and convenience for small groups, Element now offers Studio Commons, a one-of-a-kind room concept with private communal space to cook, convene, or relax together. For more information, visit www.elementhotels.com and follow along on Facebook and Instagram. Element is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com.

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. Inspired by the principles of mindfulness, JW Marriott is a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 30 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy is the award-winning travel program for Marriott International’s portfolio of 30 hotel brands, vacation home rental offering, all-inclusive resorts and hundreds of thousands of experiences. Members can earn and redeem points for stays and more, accelerating the points they earn with co-branded credit cards. When members book direct on Marriott.com they receive perks including free and enhanced Wi-Fi and exclusive member-only rates, and on the Marriott app mobile check-in and checkout, Mobile Requests and, wherever available, Mobile Key. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GOOD AS GOLD: Belize ready to come out of its shell

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With Canadians planning and, indeed, actually edging closer to their next vacations, Belize is rolling out the welcome mat for citizens of this country, touting industry-leading health and safety protocols and well-known natural attributes that are high on sustainability.

Belize minister of tourism Anthony Mahler emphasizes the importance of the Canadian market, telling Travel Industry Today that this country makes up about 10% of visitors – about 50,000 per year – to the Central American nation, but also, importantly produces a higher spend than most during an average stay of 10 days. Moreover, Mahler points out that there is a large Canadian ex-pat community in Belize, including snowbirds, and that many more typically visit via cruise ships.

With travel searching and planning a priority for many as the pandemic protocols start to ease and “a light at the end of the tunnel” begins to shine, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has also unveiled a new travelbelize website. Designed to be the country’s official resource centre for travellers, it includes immersive videos and imagery, a virtual interactive map, and a modified flight map to help travellers, and those who book them, plan their stay, and discover a myriad of adventure opportunities, natural attractions, and the cultural diversity.

Additionally, it details the country’s acclaimed Tourism Gold Standard program and WTTC Safe Travels status, the former based on a nine-step process that hotels, tour operators, attractions, and other tourism-related businesses (such as taxis) must implement to be allowed to operate.

Visitors – who are required to show proof of vaccination at least 14 days before arrivals or negative results of a PRC test taken within 96 hours of travel (otherwise will be tested at cost upon arrival) – are required to stay in a gold-standard hotel and must show proof upon arrival that they are. Notably, visitors are no longer required to download the Belize Travel Health App as before.

Mahler says Belize takes the pandemic “seriously,” adding, “It is vital that we are adequately prepared for the return of our guests, and the key to our success lies in developing a strategic framework to ensure a safe and secure experience…”

As such, and with a current COVID-19 case count of just over 300 people in the entire country (as of July 5), he maintains, “We are one of the safest destinations in the world.”

Belize is also one of the most sustainable, he continues, not least because of the destination’s reliance on nature and eco-adventures as the basis of its tourism product.

Canoeing is just one of many nature-based activities for guests at Belize’s Tourism Gold-certified Chaa Creek Lodge.

Adorned with undisturbed flora and fauna, Belize is a sprawling green oasis, featuring tropical rainforest, nature reserves, and ‘no-take’ marine zones that position the region as a largely unspoiled natural wonderland that uniquely links North and South America.

At the same time, the country’s top attraction is its 300-km long barrier reef, making the country’s coast a mecca for divers and snorkelers, with Maher noting, “If you’re a diver, Belize should be on your list of places you want to visit.”

Here is a brief look at Belize’s seven distinct regions:

• Northern Belize: An ideal destination for the ‘off-the-beaten-path’ adventurer, where visitors can have an unspoiled adventure and explore historical sites like Lamanai, one of the largest Maya Sites in the country.

• North Islands: Home to numerous cayes, including Ambergris Caye (the largest island in Belize), the islands are water adventurer’s dream, with stellar snorkeling and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef, the Great Blue Hole, Shark Ray Alleym and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

• Belize City: A laidback getaway on the central coast with great fishing and rich Creole culture, history and colonial structures, the Belize zoo, and canoeing in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Western Belize: Adventure-land, with activities ranging from tree-top ziplining to caving and river tubing. Home to Belmopan, the capital city, which boasts lively and vibrant markets and is a gateway to eco-activities for any level of adventurer.

• Southeast Coast: Defined by adventure and beaches, the “Coast with the Most” boasts Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Reserve, the first jaguar sanctuary, ziplining in Mayflower Bocawina National Park, plus more than 25 kilometres of palm tree lined beaches.

• Southern Belize: Ideal for family vacations, visitors can explore Toledo District and Punta Gorda town, and stroll through many colourful markets. Southern Belize is laden with culture, which is celebrated every Nov. 19 by the Garifuna with the Battle of the Drums and Food Fete.

• Belize Reef: A UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of 400 cayes and three atolls (coral islands), including renowned Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Great Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye. Each atoll offers a completely different kind of diving experience and for non-diving adventures, Glover’s Reef is a remote area where visitors can stand-up paddleboard, kayak, try fly-fishing and more.

A former British colony that achieved independence in 1981, Belize’s official language is English, though “over the years, we’ve been Latinized,” says Mahler, with creole widely spoken (as well as Spanish).

The country, which has the lowest population and population density in Central America, is also politically and socially stable in an otherwise often troubled neighbourhood.

Mahler notes that Canadians can generally reach Belize easily with typically steady lift from this country. Post-pandemic, WestJet will begin service on Nov. 3 (from YYZ) through to April 30, 2022, while Air Canada is expected to fly again in 2022.

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui Cuts Ribbon on New Resort

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Hyatt Regency Koh Samui Cuts Ribbon on New Resort - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, July 7, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / One of Thailand’s most anticipated resorts, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui, was unveiled yesterday on Koh Samui. Several VIP guests attended the opening ceremony, which took place in the resort’s showpiece lobby—the longest lobby arrival point in Koh Samui.

Among those present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Ramnet Jaikwang, mayor of Koh Samui, Pimnipa Poolvaraluck and Itthichai Poolvaraluck of Koh Samui Vipat Co Ltd, the resort’s ownership company, and Adrian Pulido, the hotel’s general manager.

Ittichai Poolvaraluck, Chief Business Officer of Koh Samui Vipat Co Ltd, speaking after the ceremony, said: “The resort will play a part in driving the economy and promoting community tourism on Koh Samui.”

As the paradise island eyes a reopening to international tourists over the coming months, the opening is a landmark on the road to recovery. Thailand’s government is ready to unveil its Samui Plus Model, which will allow fully vaccinated tourists to travel to Koh Samui without having to quarantine.

“The resort has been certified for hygiene and is certified SHA (Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration) from the Tourism Authority of Thailand,” added Mr Ittichai. “We have put in place hygiene and safety measures in the resort to prepare to welcome returning tourists.”

A collaboration between three of Thailand’s biggest hotel design names — Office of Bangkok Architecture, August Design and PLandscaping — the 140-room property occupies eight acres of private coastline in the far northeast corner of the paradise island.

Deploying a design-forward philosophy, the property, which is located in North Chaweng — and is less than ten minutes from the island’s international airport— bills itself as a “vacation gallery” due to its array of visual highlights.

These include a showpiece lobby, the longest lobby arrival point in Koh Samui, where numerous skylights allow for natural illumination by the sun and the moon. Other standout features span plush accommodations that showcase terrific ocean views to one of the largest pool zones on the island, a collection of pools, each cascading down from the main pool on the upper deck of the resort.

The beauty of Koh Samui is legendary. And the resort’s appeal leverages the visual appeal of the coastal landscape, a forest of protected trees and the proximity of the ocean. Another unique selling point is its Gallery of Eight, a collection of eight sites dotted around the property specially selected for their photogenic potential.

The 140 guestrooms, which include 24 spacious suites and villas, feature private balconies and most offer stunning sea views. Select rooms include access to Regency Club privileges, while seven beachfront pool villas provide elevated indulgence. Spaces benefit from the simplicity of the interior design—by August Design— in a neutral palette with ocean-inspired décor and blue accents.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dusit Hotels Makes Oman Debut with DusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar

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Dusit Hotels Makes Oman Debut with DusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar

Jabal Akhdar, Oman, July 7, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its presence in the Middle East with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar – the first Dusit-branded hotel in Oman. Deluxe family-friendly resort uniquely puts guests next to a brand new Adventure Park on the stunning Saiq Plateau, just five minutes from the renowned ‘Grand Canyon of the Middle East.

Owned by the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), which is the executive arm of the Sultanate for tourism development, the deluxe resort is located within a brand new 8,000 sq m Adventure Park on the Saiq Plateau in the Jabal Akhdar area, just a five-minute drive from the ‘Grand Canyon of the Middle East,’ and two hours by car from Muscat International Airport.

Comprising 252 beautifully decorated rooms and suites, the contemporary resort fully embraces its unique mountain location with a spacious layout that blends seamlessly with its stunning natural surrounds.

Alongside breathtaking views, guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, and a large outdoor swimming pool. A specialty restaurant, a Kids Club, and a signature Namm spa offering traditional Thai-inspired massage therapies and treatments are set to open later in the year. Dusit’s new group-wide wellness concept and approach will also be introduced to weave well-being elements throughout the stay experience. With a focus on physical vitality and mental health, this unparalleled approach will include the provision of mountain running, yoga, pilates, Thai boxing, guided meditation workshops, and other experiences and events that harness nature, sustainability, and adventure, to deliver healthy fun for adults and children alike.

The resort is also well-equipped for future business events and social gatherings, with a grand ballroom that can cater for up to 150 guests, and several adjoining meeting rooms featuring the latest audio-visual equipment.

The Adventure Park, slated to open later in the year, will feature exciting activities to delight visitors of all ages, such as zip-line rides offering impressive views of the surrounding valley. A petting zoo and science centre where budding young Einsteins can get to grips with all kinds of fun experiments are also set to open when the world reopens to international travel.

To uniquely link guests with the location, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar will also soon offer educational hiking, cycling and quad biking tours to ancient forts, traditional markets and other local attractions, such as the historic town of Nizwa, known as the ‘Pearl of Islam.’

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, all guests also benefit from Dusit’s carefully crafted ‘Dusit Care’ services. Designed to offer ultimate peace of mind, these go beyond enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver additional convenience, experience and value while maximising guest safety. Flexible check-in, anytime breakfast, and mobile payment methods are just some of the services offered.

“We are delighted to make our Oman debut with this vibrant resort which showcases the heritage, culture and visual splendour of the destination in truly distinctive fashion,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “From enriching wellness experiences and exciting dining journeys to adventurous excursions and a wide range of exhilarating activities, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar has all the elements in place to provide a highly memorable vacation for visitors of all ages. Bright days are on the horizon for international travel, and we look forward to making the property a resounding success.”

Mr Gerhard Stutz, General Manager, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, said, “Uniquely blending Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with local customs and traditions, our resort provides unparalleled access to wonder and adventure in a gorgeous location surrounded by breathtaking mountains and valleys. It’s truly a distinctive proposition for travellers, and we look forward to leveraging our unique position and offerings to deliver amazing vacation experiences that help to put the area on the map as a must-visit destination to the benefit of our broader community.”

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 15 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company.

About OMRAN
Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) was established in 2005 by the Government as the executive arm of the Sultanate responsible for delivering the objectives contained in 2040 National Tourism Strategy. OMRAN works closely with the Ministry of Tourism and other governmental entities to identify priorities, projects and opportunities that will maximise the potential of the Sultanate’s tourism sector.

OMRAN creates sustainable and authentic tourism assets, lifestyle communities and destinations that drive economic growth and contribute to diversification of the economy.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO: Vaccines and Digital Solutions to Ease Travel Restrictions

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UNWTO: Vaccines and Digital Solutions to Ease Travel Restrictions

Madrid, Spain, July 7, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The global vaccination rollout and increased adoption of digital solutions for safe travel should lead to a rise in international mobility over the weeks and months ahead, the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) indicates.

According to the newest edition of the Travel Restrictions Report from the United Nations specialized agency for tourism, as of 1 June, 29% of all destinations worldwide have their borders completely closed to international tourism. Of these, more than half have been completely closed to tourists for since May 2020 or longer, with the majority of these belonging to the Small Island Development States of Asia and the Pacific. In comparison, just three destinations (Albania, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic) are completely open to tourists, with no restrictions now in place.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Evidence-based measures and cooperation

Governments are instrumental for the restart and recovery of tourism through collaboration, use of data and digital solutions

One in three (34%) of all destinations are partially closed, and 36% request a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival, in some cases in combination with a requirement to quarantine. The data confirms the trend towards destinations adopting more nuanced, evidence-and-risk-based approaches to restrictions on travel, particularly in light of the evolving epidemiological situation and the emergence of new variants of the virus. Indeed, 42% of all destinations have introduced specific restrictions for visitors from destinations with variants of concern ranging from the suspension of flights and closing of borders to compulsory quarantine.

Additionally, since most of those destinations with the strictest measures have some of the lowest rates of vaccination, the data also indicates a link between vaccination speed and easing of restrictions. In comparison, those destinations that have higher rates of vaccination and where countries are able to work together on harmonized rules and protocols such as those being employed in the Schengen area of the European Union, are better-placed to allow tourism to slowly return.

“Governments are instrumental for the restart and recovery of tourism through collaboration, use of data and digital solutions”, says UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili:

Different paces

Regional differences with regards to travel restrictions remain. 70% of all destinations in Asia and the Pacific are completely closed, compared with just 13% in Europe, as well as 20% in the Americas, 19% in Africa and 31% in the Middle East.

Assessing current requirements for vaccinated passengers, 17% of all destinations worldwide specifically mention vaccinated passengers in their regulations. In most cases, travel restrictions continue to apply to fully vaccinated passengers (who have received two doses of an approved vaccine), though in others, all restrictions are lifted. UNWTO expects that this will significantly evolve over the coming weeks.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The report indicates that the restart of global tourism will remain muted so long as governments continue to advise caution. Four of the 10 top source markets keep advising their citizens against non-essential travel abroad (these four generated 25% of all international arrivals in 2018).

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Luxury Collection® and Designer Mercedes Salazar Unveil Homeware Collection

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The Luxury Collection announces their second collaboration with renowned designer and Global Explorer Mercedes Salazar, unveiling her first homeware collection with the brand. Inspired by her travels to North Island in the Seychelles, one of the newest additions to The Luxury Collection portfolio, Mercedes has created a vibrant, eye-catching collection of pieces for the home. Designed exclusively for The Luxury Collection, the items range from parrot placemats to cockatoo bread baskets and are available for retail beginning July 2021.

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Mercedes Salazar x The Luxury Collection: North Island

Mercedes Salazar x The Luxury Collection: North Island is inspired by the Seychelles’ bold colors and diverse wildlife. Each piece brings to life the authentic island experience, specifically drawing inspiration from the native Aldabra giant turtles, parrots and white-tailed tropicbirds. The hue-driven- collection is centered around the natural surroundings of North Island; bold pinks, blues, greens, and oranges reflect the exotic landscapes, fruits, and flowers on the island. Wicker candlesticks, vases, placemats, and baskets create a cohesive novelty piece for the home, reminiscent and reflective of the “barefoot luxury” of the North Island villas.

“The Luxury Collection’s hotels and resorts are all such unique destinations and North Island is another example of exceptional harmony between the property and its surroundings,” said Mercedes Salazar. “The island is incredibly rich in biodiversity, and The Luxury Collection is able to showcase the destination’s commitment to preserve and cultivate the nature surrounding the hotel. From the vibrant colors of the flora and fauna to the prints inspired by the exotic animals, North Island and its culture have a natural sense of authenticity – which I aimed to reflect in these new homeware pieces.”

“Much like The Luxury Collection, Mercedes is appreciative of the natural world and strives to include it in her continual journeys. She has the enviable capacity to absorb immersive aspects of culture, with a true understanding possessed by a Global Explorer,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “Her contagious wandering spirit and deep comprehension of what it means to be a world traveler make her an incredible partner to translate these experiences into products that can be enjoyed at home every day.”

Mercedes Salazar x The Luxury Collection: North Island will launch in July and will be available for purchase on www.luxurycollectionstore.com, www.mercedessalazar.com, and at select Luxury Collection properties including North Island, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seychelles. The collection will range in price from $33 to $385 USD.

About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection®, part of Marriott International, Inc., is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of nearly 120 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott BonvoyÔ, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

About Mercedes Salazar
Mercedes Salazar is a global brand with a wide product portfolio, offering contemporary jewelry, fashion and home accessories handmade by master artisans in Colombia. The company is currently present in more than 300 stores across the Americas, Europe, UK and Asia, and distributes worldwide through www.mercedessalazar.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui Spurs Recovery on Thailand’s Castaway Paradise

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Hyatt Regency Koh Samui Spurs Recovery on Thailand's Castaway Paradise - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, July 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / One of Thailand’s most anticipated resorts, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui, was unveiled today on Koh Samui. Covering eight acres of private coastline, design forward resort is a landmark debut

As the paradise island eyes a reopening to international tourists over the coming months, the opening is a landmark on the road to recovery.

The property, which is Hyatt’s first footfall on Koh Samui, gives guests the opportunity to discover timeless connections and energising experiences and will play a major role in rebounding visitors with the island as Thailand welcomes back visitors.

“The pandemic has been a challenging time for Koh Samui as it has been for the entire tourism industry in Thailand. That’s why we are so delighted to debut with such a special resort,” said Adrian Pulido, general manager, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui.

A collaboration between three of Thailand’s biggest hotel design names — Office of Bangkok Architecture, August Design and PLandscaping — the 140-room property occupies eight acres of private coastline in the far northeast corner of the paradise island.

Deploying a design-forward philosophy, the property, which is located in North Chaweng — and is less than ten minutes from the island’s international airport— bills itself as a “vacation gallery” due to its array of visual highlights.

These include a showpiece lobby, the longest lobby arrival point in Koh Samui, where numerous skylights allow for natural illumination by the sun and the moon. Other standout features span plush accommodations that showcase terrific ocean views to one of the largest pool zones on the island, a collection of pools, each cascading down from the main pool on the upper deck of the resort.

The beauty of Koh Samui is legendary. And the resort’s appeal leverages the visual appeal of the coastal landscape, a forest of protected trees and the proximity of the ocean. Another unique selling point is its Gallery of Eight, a collection of eight sites dotted around the property specially selected for their photogenic potential.

The 140 guestrooms, which include 24 spacious suites and villas, feature private balconies and most offer stunning sea views. Select rooms include access to Regency Club privileges, while seven beachfront pool villas provide elevated indulgence. Spaces benefit from the simplicity of the interior design—by August Design— in a neutral palette with ocean-inspired décor and blue accents.

Culinary cravings are ably catered for at the resort’s four restaurants and bars, including Yangna, an all-day dining restaurant showcasing Thai and international cuisine, and the open-air Sesun Grill & Beach Bar where diners can enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean sides alongside relaxing sea views. Cobalt serves fresh juice, iced tea and coffee while Kube offers crafted cocktails accompanied by mesmerizing views from the highest point of the resort.

The family-friendly resort features freeform pools—including a lap pool, plunge pool, family pool with a whirlpool and kids’ pool with a slide—which cascade to the beach. Over at Camp Hyatt, young guests can enjoy supervised play and activities from arts and crafts to movie nights.

Lush tropical plants line the grand staircase that leads to the spa, a tranquil sanctuary featuring five treatment rooms, including two couple’s suites with a private deck and outdoor tub.

The property offers inspiring indoor and outdoor venues for gatherings, big and small. The elegant Regency Ballroom can accommodate up to 100 guests or 150 for cocktails. A 97-sqm manicured lawn provides a magical setting for wedding celebrations and alfresco events.

“This island has a central role in how Thailand fares following the pandemic, and it’s an honour to be leading the way as we begin to look positively towards the future,” added Pulido.

About Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt Regency brand prides itself on making travel free from stress and filled with success. More than 200 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.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company offering 20 premier brands. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,000 hotel, all-inclusive, and wellness resort properties in 68 countries across six continents. The Company’s purpose to care for people so they can be their best informs its business decisions and growth strategy and is intended to attract and retain top employees, build relationships with guests and create value for shareholders. The Company’s subsidiaries operate, manage, franchise, own, lease, develop, license, or provide services to hotels, resorts, branded residences, and vacation ownership properties, including under 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®, tommie™, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brand names, and operates the World of Hyatt® loyalty program that provides distinct benefits and exclusive experiences to its valued members.

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wine Tourism and Rural Development Discussed in Portugal in September 2021

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Wine Tourism and Rural Development Discussed in Portugal in September 2021

Lisbon, Portugal, July 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Visit Portugal and the city of Reguengos de Monsaraz announce dates for the 5th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism.

• Discover Portugal’s Best Fine Vineyards at Top25Vineyards.com here.

Following the success of the past four editions, the Conference will take place on 9-10 September 2021, in Reguengos de Monsaraz in the Alentejo region, in collaboration with the Government of Portugal.

Held under the theme ‘Wine Tourism – a driver for rural development’ in a hybrid format to welcome delegates from all around the world, the Conference will focus on the contribution of wine tourism to social and economic regional integration and its great potential to generate development opportunities in rural destinations.

I thank Portugal’s support to accelerate the recovery of the sector

UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili says: “It is now more important than ever to support wine tourism and I am confident that this event will represent a unique opportunity to share experiences that face up these challenging times and place the two sectors at the center of recovery, particularly for the benefit of rural communities. I thank Portugal’s support to accelerate the recovery of the sector.”

The Minister of State, Economy and Digital Transition, Pedro Siza Vieira, aims to position the country “As one of the top destinations in wine tourism, which is a main strategic asset for Portugal due to its ability to attract a highly qualified tourist with high purchasing power, allowing for multiple attraction anchors throughout the territory and throughout the year, thus contributing to territorial cohesion and reducing seasonality. Wine tourism’s development in central in the Recovery Plan (Reactivate Tourism | Build the Future) for the Tourism sector but the dynamization of this product also has a specific and dedicated action plan. The aforementioned Plan will contribute to the enhancement of wine tourism, wine itself and will be a very important contribution to creating more value and employment in these regions.

• Discover Portugal’s Best Fine Vineyards at Top25Vineyards.com here.

Mayor off the Municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz, José Calixto, says: “Welcome everyone to one of the richest wine regions in Portugal! Reguengos de Monsaraz and Alentejo are a territory experienced and felt by Man for over 9,000 years. We are valued by a unique intangible heritage, very hospitable people, high quality wines that are part of our identity and several excellent wine tourism activities, allow unforgettable experiences. We would like to share them with you!”.

Since 2016, the Conference has highlighted the importance of wine tourism to the socio-economic development of destinations and has served as a platform to exchange experiences, identify good practices and promote wine tourism as a tool for sustainable development.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Economic Report Reveals COVID-19’s Dramatic Impact on Tourism

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WTTC Economic Report Reveals COVID-19’s Dramatic Impact on Tourism

London, United Kingdom, July 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Asia Pacific was the region hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic according to the new annual Economic Trends Report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The report reveals the full dramatic impact of travel restrictions designed to curb COVID-19 on the global economy, individual regions, and its job losses worldwide.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

Asia-Pacific was the worst performing region, with the sector’s contribution to GDP dropping a damaging 53.7%, compared to the global fall of 49.1%.

International visitor spending was particularly hard hit across Asia Pacific, falling by 74.4%, as many countries across the region closed their borders to inbound tourists. Domestic spending witnessed a lower but equally punishing decline of 48.1%.

Travel & Tourism employment in the region fell by 18.4%, equating to a shocking 34.1 million jobs.

However, despite this decline, Asia-Pacific remained the largest region for the sector’s employment in 2020, accounting for 55% (151 million) of all global Travel & Tourism jobs.

Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President WTTC, said: “WTTC data has laid bare the devastating impact the pandemic has had on Travel & Tourism around the world, leaving economies battered, millions without jobs and many more fearing for their future. 

“Our annual Economic Trends Report shows just how much each region has suffered at the hands of the crushing travel restrictions brought in to control the spread of COVID-19.

“WTTC believes governments around the world should take advantage of their vaccine rollouts, which could significantly ease travel restrictions on travel, and help power the wider global economic recovery.”

The report also revealed the European Travel & Tourism sector suffered the second biggest economic collapse last year, dropping 51.4% (€987 BN).

This significant and damaging decline was in part due to continuing mobility restrictions to curb the spread of the virus.

The report showed domestic spending in Europe declined by 48.4%, offset by some intra-regional travel, however international spending fell at an even sharper rate, by 63.8%.

Despite this, Europe remained the top global region for international visitor spending.

However, Travel & Tourism employment still suffered across the Continent, falling 9.3%, equating to a dramatic loss of 3.6 million jobs.

Travel & Tourism GDP in Africa dropped 49.2% in 2020, in line with the global average.

Domestic spending declined by 42.8%, while international spending saw a much steeper contraction at 66.8%.

In terms of employment losses, Africa suffered disproportionately more than other regions, falling 29.3%, representing a staggering 7.2 million jobs.

Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP in the Middle East decreased significantly in 2020, dropping 51.1%.

While domestic spending declined 42.8%, international spending saw a much steeper fall of 70.3%, in part driven by severe restrictions.

The region, which was highly reliant on international tourism in 2019, saw international spending as a share of total Travel & Tourism spending drop from 62% of the total in 2019 to just 46% in 2020. However, domestic spending grew in share, from 38% of the total in 2019 to 54% in 2020.

Despite a 42.4% decline in Travel & Tourism GDP in 2020, the Americas was the least affected major region globally.

As a result, it remained the largest region in terms of its economic importance, accounting for 35% of global direct Travel & Tourism GDP.

While domestic spending dropped by 38.9%, international spending saw a significantly sharper decline of 72.1% due to severe travel restrictions on inbound visitors.

The Caribbean, which is as a region highly reliant upon international visitors, was the worst affected ‘sub-region’ globally. Its Travel & Tourism GDP fell 58% last year, from 14.1% of its total economy in 2019, to just 6.4% in 2020.

The WTTC Economic Trends Report shows how the Travel & Tourism sector enables socio-economic development, job creation, and significant positive social impact, including providing unique opportunities to women, minorities, and youth.

It suggests that the sector will pivot and adapt to ultimately return stronger post COVID-19, identifying trends already gaining traction and exploring the shifts that may be required to sustain Travel & Tourism in the future.

From a demand perspective, COVID-19 is transforming traveller inclinations and behaviours toward the familiar, predictable, trusted and towards perceived ‘low risk’ destinations. According to the report, more regional holidays, with extensive research and planning, and the great outdoors, will reign in the short-term.

COVID-19 is also proving to be a catalyst in the Travel & Tourism sector’s quest for innovation and the integration of new technologies such as biometrics, which would enable a more seamless traveller experience.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

As global Travel & Tourism starts seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and work to accelerate the resumption of safe international travel takes place, it is essential the sector rebuilds trust to travel. While the pent-up demand is significant, ever-changing travel restrictions have affected consumer confidence to book.

WTTC, which has continually been at the forefront in leading the private sector in the efforts to rebuild global consumer confidence, advocates the need for an internationally coordinated, consistent, and transparent approach to enable safe travel.

Having clear and coordinated health & hygiene protocols would support the sector in rebuilding traveller confidence and allow for international travel to resume and recover swiftly.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News