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GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025

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GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025 - TRAVELINDEX

GOCO Hospitality Joins World Wellness Weekend 2025 - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / GOCO Hospitality proudly announces its participation in World Wellness Weekend 2025, reaffirming its commitment to fostering holistic wellbeing for its team members, guests, and communities. Aligning with this year’s inspiring theme, Make Wellness Your Superpower, GOCO Hospitality and its properties will deliver a diverse programme of complimentary wellness activities, designed to promote health, happiness and harmony.

Joining this global initiative at Hero Level by hosting activities that engage the public, inspire the team and support local communities. From Bangkok to Bali, Samui to California, the company’s properties have curated meaningful experiences that encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing.

“We are always proud to support World Wellness Weekend, a brilliant initiative that inspires so many to make wellbeing a priority in their lives,” said Ingo Schweder, Founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality. “Our teams across the world are passionate about contributing to this movement and helping to make a lasting global impact.”

GOCO-managed hospitality properties will present meaningful wellness experiences that include meditation and sound healing sessions, community outreach and donation drives, yoga classes, aqua gym activities, bodyweight training, and CSR initiatives such as beach clean-ups and children’s projects. Wellness walks, team runs, staff movement challenges, fire blessing ceremonies, nourishing breaks, and wellness-focused meals with detox shots are also among the activities curated to encourage participation and connection.

These events will take place between 19 and 21 September 2025, inviting guests, colleagues and local communities to engage in experiences that nurture body, mind and spirit.

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INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey

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INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey - TRAVELINDEX

INDDEE Launches a New Multi-Layered Journey - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new journey begins at INDDEE. After six months of creative refinement and development, the 1 MICHELIN Star restaurant now invites guests to explore an evolved tasting experience, layered with new flavours, textures, destinations, and stories from across India.

INDDEE’s latest chapter introduces three new journeys with expanded course structure, playful reinventions, refined presentations, and greater guest engagement—while staying rooted in authenticity. All dishes represent thoughtful interpretations of Indian flavours through various techniques and premium ingredients.

  • 10-Destination Journey: 4,900 THB ++
  • 10-Destination Vegetable Journey: 4,200 THB ++
  • 8-Destination Journey: 4,200 THB ++

Explorers of the new menu will see a delicate Parsi egg akuri executed with a delicate skill, INDDEE’s favorite butter pepper garlic entirely reimagined with a sweet leg of Hokkaido king crab and four new bites that express different techniques of Indian street food, to name a few.

A standout feature is the “Three Ways” main course that follows the idea of choosing Your route. Guests select from three regional directions. Similarly, they will be able to choose their preferred protein for two courses, deciding between palamós and carabineros (only in a 10-destination journey), and free-range organic chicken or grass-fed lamb.

A World of Pairings Awaits

To complement the new menus, INDDEE has elevated and expanded its beverage program — now proudly holding the No. 1 spot in Asia and the title of Best Medium-Sized List in the world, awarded in Vienna at the Star Wine List of the Year awards. The new wine menu now features five curated pairings:

  • Beverage Experience – a mixed pairing journey featuring wine, sake, umeshu, etc.
  • Wine Experience – INDDEE’s wine-focused route
  • Zero Alcohol Experience – an adventurous exploration of no alcohol beverages
  • Best of Both – blends the best of both worlds: alcohol & no alcohol pours
  • Flexi Experience – customize based on your preferences, deciding on the amount of glasses, styles or grapes. Starts with minimum 3 glasses, additional glasses 450 THB++ each.

Beyond the kitchen, INDDEE has introduced a series of enhancements that shape the guest experience: from artisanal tableware and cutlery rests to more tableside service accessories and glassware. The reservation experience has also been upgraded and now offers seamless booking directly from the MICHELIN app, Instagram, Facebook, and Google.

To ensure culinary authenticity while evolving creatively, INDDEE collaborated with world-renowned Indian food historian Dr. Pushpesh Pant, whose guidance helped shape the narratives, flavors and relevance of ingredients, and historical depth of the experience.

“Our third chapter brings more freedom, more finesse, and more personal engagement,” says Sachin Poojary, INDDEE’s Head Chef. “It’s our most expressive and sophisticated journey yet.”

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Sun-Soaked Beach Club Debuts with Distinct Ibiza Mood

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Sun-Soaked Beach Club Debuts with Distinct Ibiza Mood - TRAVELINDEXPattaya, Thailand, July 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / With a unique “hydro bar”, vistas of Pattaya Beach, and fiery entertainment, LAY Beach Club has opened in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant Pattaya.

The exciting new venue is situated on Beach Road on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast, a short drive from Bangkok, and has already been dubbed “the place to be”.

The beach club’s crème de la crème is the hydro bar, an elegant cocktail pool where the water’s surface appears to seamlessly merge with the ocean. Dotted with submerged loungers, the hydro bar is surrounded by a white-sand area and deck featuring circle sofas and cabanas.

Also exuding a Mediterranean feel, the lounge and bar area anchoring the beach club caters to almost 250 people. The space is crowned by a chic rooftop lounge, with a capacity for more than 100 guests seated or 300 guests for cocktail events, affording panoramic views of Pattaya Beach.

The a la carte menu brims with Mediterranean and Asian favourites including artisanal sandwiches and wraps, hearty rice and pasta dishes, fresh seafood mains and signature specialities. Highlights with locally sourced seafood include ‘Hand shucked oysters with shallot mignonette, lemon and salsa verde’, and ‘Seafood paella rice with prawn, mussel, squid and clam’. Indulgent desserts such as the Sicily Cannoli generously filled with orange mascarpone, pistachio and drizzled in rich chocolate sauce round out the menu.

The beverage menu is extensive, featuring smoothies and shakes, juices, sodas, iced drinks, beers, wines, champagne, classic cocktails and all sorts of imaginative creations by the award-winning bar team.

Cocktails such as the pandan-scented ‘Blue Tides’, made up of vodka, coconut juice, pandan syrup and coconut milk topped with blue coconut foam, bring creative flair to the menu. ‘The Wave Rider’ is characterised by floral and citrus notes, featuring gin, Lillet Rosé, rose syrup, aloe vera juice, egg white and lime juice. A reinterpretation of a classic Bloody Mary, ‘Sriracha Spark’ packs a punch with clarified vodka, Sriracha sauce, tomato juice, green olive juice, lime, paprika, and salt and pepper.

LAY Beach Club brings the atmosphere of the famed Mediterranean chill-out beach clubs to Pattaya, with a dynamic menu offering something for everyone,” said Javier Gimeno, the general manager at Meliá Pattaya Hotel, which manages LAY Beach Club. “By day, our sun-soaked beach club has a laid back feel and by night, it’s a lively hotspot with DJs spinning the decks, dance performances and LED visuals on our state-of-the-art giant LED screen.”

The evening’s entertainment is underscored by an enthralling 20-minute fire show packed with high-impact tricks and choreography.

Open daily from 11am until midnight, Lay Beach Club also caters to an array of events.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, is redefining the country’s landscape of hospitality, commercial workspaces, and iconic lifestyle destinations with its diversified portfolio, strategically located in prime areas across the nation. Committed to creating new landmark projects that not only set new benchmarks for the industry but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a global sustainable tourism destination, AWC collaborates with world-renowned partners, including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Nobu Hospitality, Okura Hotels, Banyan Tree, Melia International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Hyatt, to deliver unforgettable experiences. Its portfolio features flagship commercial properties such as The Empire, Athenee Tower, Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, and Phenix, along with premier F&B destinations like ‘EA’ Rooftop at The Empire, offering world-class top cuisine. AWC is committed to delivering exceptional experiences while championing sustainability in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders through initiatives under three key pillars of Better Planet, Better People, and Better Prosperity (3BETTERs), driving innovation and responsibility to inspire millions and elevate Thailand’s tourism and real estate industry to new heights.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Serengeti’s Newest Luxury Lodge Warangi Ridge Opens

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Serengeti’s Newest Luxury Lodge Warangi Ridge Opens - TRAVELINDEXSerengeti, Tanzania, July 27, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Wilderness Collection,  a proudly Tanzanian-owned and managed portfolio, has successfully launched its second luxury lodge, Warangi Ridge, right in the heart of Serengeti National Park, offering front row seats to the legendary wildebeest migration.

Warangi Ridge has been beautifully integrated into a stunning granite cliff, perfectly positioned for maximum enjoyment of the views over the savanna grasslands and kopjes below.  Located in a restricted “rangers only” TANAPA Research Area of the park, with no neighbours within a 12 km radius, guests can enjoy this very exclusive wilderness away from the crowds, where predator sightings including cheetahs, leopards and lions, are prolific all year round.

Central guest facilities include an elegant library, lounge bar and restaurant as well as yoga deck, open air gym and spa, all tucked away between the acacia trees, with a waterfall and infinity pool claiming pride of place.

The all-inclusive lodge comprises fifteen thoughtfully designed, fully insulated tented suites. Designed by South Africa’s acclaimed interiors expert Les Harbottle, the tents pay homage to the silhouette of the endangered pangolin, four of which were spotted in the area. Each tent has its own deck with plunge pool and outdoor shower overlooking the sweeping vistas.  An interlinked two-bedroom suite is available for families.

A variety of activities are on offer including day and night game drives in open sided vehicles, river walks along the Orangi River, specialized bird walks and 2-to-3-hour guided eco-nature walks.  There are also child-friendly activities and treats to engage young guests aged 5-15.

Conveniently located just 41km from the Seronera airstrip, Warangi Ridge Lodge is poised to be the hottest new property in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations!

Special Launch Offers: Stay More, Save More

  • $800 per person per night
  • 25% off each night after the 2nd night (excluding high season)
  • 10% discount when combining stays at Crater’s Edge and Warangi Ridge

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Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong Supports Thai Tourism

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Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong Supports Thai Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, the bold lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Bangkok’s dynamic Ratchaprasong district, is marking Mother’s Day this August with a series of engaging activities and limited-time offers to promote domestic tourism. As the first Moxy Hotel in Thailand and the largest in Asia Pacific outside China, the property continues to redefine the hotel experience with its playful atmosphere, vibrant design, and community-driven programming.

To celebrate the spirit of motherhood, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will host the “Mom’s Day Lunch Date” exclusively for its staff on Wednesday, 6 August 2025. This special event invites 10 lucky pairs of mothers and children to enjoy a heartwarming experience from 11 AM to 3 PM at Moxy Bar and Restaurant on 9th floor. Participants will share a curated lunch, take part in bonding activities, enjoy a guided hotel tour, receive a photo keepsake, and bring home a meaningful gift to commemorate the day. The event reflects Moxy’s dedication to creating personal, memorable moments for both guests and team members.

In collaboration with The Platinum Fashion Mall’s “MOM-MORY – Hop Back, Snap Forward” campaign, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will also host six winning mother-child pairs on Monday, 11 August 2025, from 11 AM to 2 PM. Winners will enjoy the ‘Eat Out with Marriott Bonvoy #ATTHEMOXY’ experience at Moxy Bar and Restaurant and receive special souvenirs. This activation reinforces the hotel’s ongoing commitment to engaging with local communities and supporting meaningful celebrations.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is also proud to be the host venue for “Energize Your Day,” a wellness event organized by the Thailand & Cambodia Marriott Worldwide Business Councils in partnership with HealthAtWork, Southeast Life Insurance and MercerMarsh Benefits. Taking place on Thursday, 21 August 2025, from 2 PM, the session will be led by Khun Bo Apichaya Kunadirek, a professional physical therapist. Marriott associates will benefit from an informative health talk and guided exercise session, as well as complimentary health check-ups, including bone, muscle, and fat mass analysis, blood sugar level testing, BMI measurement, and personalized health consultations. The event is part of Marriott’s ongoing commitment to employee wellness and workplace well-being.

In addition, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is participating in the government’s “Tiew Thai Kon La Krueng” campaign, aimed at stimulating local tourism during the low season. Thai nationals can take advantage of subsidized rates for stays until 31 October 2025. Moxy Queen rooms (room only) are available at THB 2,118.5 net on weekdays (with 50% government support) and THB 2,542.2 net on weekends and public holidays (40% support). Moxy Twin rooms (room only) start at THB 2,236.5 net on weekdays and THB 2,683.8 net on weekends and holidays. Bookings must be made at least 3 days in advance by filling in this form at tiny.cc/MoxyBKK_Half-Half, contacting the hotel directly by calling +66 2 209 5999.

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Bali Bliss: How to Get Away from it all in Real Style

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Bali Bliss: How to Get Away from it all in Real Style - TRAVELINDEX

Bali Bliss: How to Get Away from it all in Real Style - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, July 24, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / There are so many places that I have yet to visit that I rarely return to destinations, even top-notch ones that I have thoroughly enjoyed.

The Damai, a little sanctuary of serenity in Bali, is a firm exception to that rule. Think exclusive, remote, and stylish. And definitely return worthy.

Tucked away in the hills above Bali’s northern beaches, The Damai is a privately owned bijou resort where the air is clean, the sky clear and the sounds muted, except, sometimes, for the local frogs.

The Damai sits in the lush green hills above sleepy Lovina. There are just 14 beautifully appointed villas in lush tropical gardens with stunning views over the North Bali coast and the distant volcanoes of Java.

The award-winning poolside restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine with organic ingredients from the resort’s own gardens and farm.

The Damai is a perfect spot to relax from the hectic world outside; to enjoy the private luxury of a pool villa or simply to relax in your private pool after a massage. With a few hours of arriving you will be zoned out, ready to start regenerating.

There are plenty of activities on offer; a trip to one of the spectacular local waterfalls, perhaps, a boat ride out to swim with dolphins on one of the local fishing vessels, or maybe a vineyard tour, wine tasting and picnic at a local vineyard (yes, really!).

But my bet is that you will spend most of your stay in your pool, or reading a book, or having an al fresco treatment.

Unlike many of Bali’s top resorts, The Damai really is far away from the hustle and bustle. You will find yourself far from the crowds, and close to the true heart of Bali, local people going about their daily lives.

Maybe you will venture to a dance class in the village. Savour the scent of cloves in the breeze. Take a trek to a deserted temple or a secret waterfall. You are only a few hours from Kuta or Canggu, but in a very different world.

After taking in the magnificent sunsets, the only sounds you are likely to hear are snatches of traditional music drifting from one of the small nearby villages, or perhaps a rooster crowing.

In addition to the marvellous pool villas, the lush greenery and superb food, the big strength of The Damai is its staff; the vast majority of them locals.

The service here is uniformly smiling and quietly efficient. Nothing is too much trouble whether you are enjoying a cocktail, taking a golf buggy trip from your villa to the main complex, or need help with a restaurant reservation at your next destination.

The Damai describes its style as “elegant simplicity”. All the villas are surrounded by private gardens and you are unlikely to see any other guests unless you wish to.

The food is easy to enjoy. Simple brasserie dishes. Balinese classics. Tropical, local and good. Most evenings dinner is served by the poolside, by a roaring fire, under the stars, with view over the boats at sea, catching the fish for tomorrow’s menu.

We use organic ingredients wherever possible.” staff tell me. “Many things we grow ourselves. Herbs and salads from our market garden. Honey from the Damai bees. Poultry, eggs and fresh coconut oil from our village. Fish from the local fishermen. Very few imports, and always of the best quality we can find.”

In addition to the a la carte dinner menu there is always a three-course set menu of Balinese favourites. And don’t miss out on the cocktails – alcoholic or otherwise. They are splendid and potentially addictive.

Breakfast features a choice of western or Balinese menus, but we began each day with fresh fruit platters and a shot of “jamu” – a local herbal elixir.

You can then go traditional, or local, maybe with Mie Goreng, fried noodles with vegetables and chicken satés.

Dinner is usually enjoyed al fresco next to the main pool. Think menu favourites like yellowfin tuna grilled bleu with ripe local mango, pickled raisins, sweet and sour soy vinaigrette with macadamia and oyster mushrooms, or poached village chicken with fresh zucchini, cucumber, dill oil, noodles and a touch of wasabi.

Stay ultra regional with grilled local fish of the day, beurre blanc or spicy soy sauce, with pilaf rice and steamed local greens. Your villa will be just a 10-minute drive through the countryside – past local temples and farms – to the beach resort of Lovina.

The Damai Bali was recently nominated for the TOP25 Hotels Bali – World’s Best Luxury Hotels award: a pity as I would prefer it to remain undiscovered for just a little longer.

It was praised for couples seeking a romantic honeymoon in an idyllic, private setting; travellers desiring a peaceful retreat with world-class amenities and attentive service, and for gastronomy enthusiasts eager to experience the culinary offerings.

We are honoured to be recognised among the world’s best luxury hotels,” said Damai GM Andres Rubio.

This nomination is a testament to our team’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. We look forward to welcoming travellers from Bali, across Asia, and around the globe to discover the magic of The Damai.

One note: Unless you are brave/foolish enough to drive yourself, you’ll need to book a hotel transfer. You are a good 3-4 hours from Denpasar Airport, and it is an interesting, albeit slow, drive.

You can stop along the way at Singarajah, Git Git Falls or in Ubud to break up the journey.

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A Night in Blutopia Gala at Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant

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A Night in Blutopia Gala at Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant - TRAVELINDEXThe Blue Elephant Group recently hosted an unforgettable thank you gala party themed “Blutopia” in honour of visiting suppliers from all over the world and friends at Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Sathorn recently.

Guests were treated to a lavish buffet of iconic Blue Elephant culinary treasures and a sumptuous cheese spread, specially hand-carried from Brussels to Bangkok by none other than Mr. Karl Steppe, Chairman of the Blue Elephant Group.

The evening came alive with contemporary Thai tunes and a spectacular drag queen performance that had the crowd cheering — a heartfelt celebration of gratitude, gastronomy, and glamour.

Pictured from left are: Arisa Chaiyapalakul, Miss Universe Thailand Khon Kaen 2024; Kevin Somany, Vice Managing Director of Blue Spice Co., Ltd.; Thaviseuth Phouthavong, Vice President, Blue Elephant Group; Keohoudone Phetsarath; Sandra Steppe; Karl Steppe, Chairman of Blue Elephant Group; Kim Steppe, CEO of Blue Elephant Group; Ines Chardonnet, Managing Director, Blue Spice Co., Ltd.;  and Kris Steppe.

 

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Luxury Hotel Experiences

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Luxury Hotel Experiences - TRAVELINDEXHong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, July 23, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Luxury consumption in China is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by younger, more dynamic consumers and evolving preferences that go beyond traditional notions of wealth display. This shift is particularly evident in the hospitality sector, where luxury hotels now cater to a deeper desire for sensory and emotional experiences. Despite this growing demand, however, research to date has shed little light on how sensory stimulation shapes luxury hotel experiences or how cultural factors influence consumers’ responses to luxury. Working with a co-author, Professor Kam Hung and Professor Cathy Hsu of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) explore the multi-sensory dimensions of luxury consumption. Their findings offer guidance for hoteliers seeking to craft meaningful and memorable experiences for their guests.
Luxury spending is on the rise in China, which is one of the world’s largest luxury markets. Its evolution is marked by a growing appetite for high-end goods amongst the younger generation and diverse consumer segments with dynamic preferences. “Luxury consumption is not static”, say the authors. “Chinese consumers display a growing attention to décor, leisure, and dining experiences, timeless and chic items, as well as experiential luxury and personalised services”.
These trends have profoundly influenced the hospitality industry, given Chinese consumers’ growing interest in luxury travel and hotels’ potential to offer indulgent experiences. “Luxury hotels provide more than high-end facilities to serve guests’ functional needs”, the researchers tell us. “These establishments seek to fulfil visitors’ social, cultural, and emotional needs via sensory stimulation”.
However, we still know too little about how hotel offerings can enable such connections between customers and hotels. To date, the theory most frequently used to study luxury hotel experiences has been that of conspicuous consumption – purchasing high-end goods or services to display one’s wealth, prestige or social status. Yet luxury consumption is increasingly understood as a complex construct with multiple dimensions, such as self-actualisation, transformation, sustainability, escapism, hedonic value and authenticity.
“Among these new dimensions of luxury accommodation”, say the researchers, “all relate to the exclusive moment when one can sense or feel oneself”. It is thus important to examine the multi-sensory modalities of hotel offerings to provide a holistic picture of the luxury hospitality experience and its underlying mechanisms – with important implications for marketers and hoteliers. After all, as the authors note, “customers’ feelings about luxury purchases are vital for deep and enduring person–brand links”.
In addition, the researchers note, “few studies have explored luxury from the cultural perspective”. For example, disparities exist between Chinese and Western luxury consumers, with the former tending to be younger and the latter more individualistic. However, trends are quick to evolve. “As China develops socioeconomically”, warn the researchers, “scholars may need to reconsider the attributes of modern Chinese society rather than relying on presumptions when studying experience consumption”.
Together, these research gaps have created a larger lacuna in understanding. “Chinese individuals’ perceptions of the luxury hospitality experience in connection with hotel offerings that stimulate such experiences remain unexplored, especially from a sensory-stimulating standpoint”, explain the authors. “Hoteliers may not realise how guests view luxury and have experiences with hotel offerings”.
Seeking to fill these gaps and generate actionable insights for hotel practitioners, the researchers adopted an innovative mental imagery perspective to explore Chinese consumers’ sensory experiences in luxury hotels. “What type of sensory stimulation from luxury hotel offerings might define Chinese consumers’ experiences?” they asked. “How do Chinese consumers perceive experiential consumption in luxury hotels?”
Mental imagery afforded a novel lens through which to address these questions. “Examples […] in daily life include daydreaming”, the authors explain. “This ubiquitous mental event enables people to re-experience the past or to envision the future”. It thus has an important part to play in consumer decision-making and behaviour. – a field in which it has been extensively studied. Surprisingly, however, mental imagery has received little attention in the hotel context, even though customers often “encounter” hotels for the first time through their imaginations.
To capture this important construct, the researchers adopted the Zaltman metaphor elicitation technique (ZMET), which uncovers information that cannot be easily expressed in words (i.e. using visual and sensory images). “This approach is well suited to exploring consumers’ multisensory experiences during luxury hotel stays”, the authors note. Using ZMET, they interviewed 16 participants who had either stayed or engaged in a consumption experience at an upscale hotel within the previous 12 months.
Before the interviews, the participants were asked to choose photos depicting their most memorable luxury experiences at hotels and their reactions to these experiences. During the interviews, they were invited to describe the feelings tied to these images; deconstruct the sensory elements of taste, touch, sound, smell and sight; craft visual stories of their ideal stay; and create mental maps to illustrate the key aspects of their experiences.
Meticulous analysis of the interview data – both verbal and non-verbal – revealed three categories of experiences described by the participants: supportive, personal/social and affective. “Supportive experiences encompassed hotel guests’ direct experiences drawn from sensory interactions amid exclusive services, spectacular views, dining experiences, artistic décor, hotel ambience, large spaces, and facilities”, the researchers report.
These supportive experiences in turn prompted personal/social experiences such as social connections in situations like family gatherings and “me time” while alone. “Affective experiences manifested from personal/social experiences”, the researchers add. “Participants reported feeling comfortable, relaxed, happy, peaceful, healed and prestigious”.
In terms of supportive experiences, exclusive services such as customised complimentary gifts – representing extraordinary service quality rarely found in low-end hotels – made the guests feel happy, healed, respected and more. Exquisite dining experiences were a source of comfort and relaxation, and large spaces also afforded a sense of privacy.
Turning to personal/social experiences, guests felt that the cleanliness of luxury hotels provided a safe environment for their children, while others relied on luxury hotels to provide a comfortable experience for senior family members. Some of the participants valued the opportunity to enjoy “me time” and “temporarily escape from the everyday” while travelling alone.
Feeling relaxed was the most common affective experience among the luxury hotel guests, triggered by spectacular views, ambience and exclusive services. Happiness came second, prompted by the senses of taste and smell, followed by comfort, which was usually connected with smell and touch. Interestingly, feeling prestigious was the least frequently reported affective experience, inconsistent with the “conspicuous consumption” theory of luxury purchasing.
With the rise of luxury consumption in China, this study provides much-needed insights into Chinese consumers’ luxury experiences in hotel settings via mental imagery, accounting for multiple sensory modalities and using both verbal and nonverbal data. The findings provide solid evidence of the interdependence of experience constructs in high-end hotel settings. “Put simply, consumption experiences evolve out of one another”, the researchers tell us.
Together, these findings have important implications for the luxury hotel sector, in China and beyond. “When marketing experiential products”, advise the authors, “practitioners should view consumers as emotional beings to create pleasant experiences”. The top three experience stimulators in this study were exclusive services, facilities and artistic décor, each of which should be prioritised. As exclusive services were the most important trigger of guests’ happiness, luxury hotels should strive to go “above and beyond” to offer an exemplary service.
Kam Hung, Cathy H.C. Hsu and Xiaotao Yang (2024). Constructing a Sensory Model of Chinese Luxury Hotel Experiences from Mental Imagery Perspective. Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing, Vol. 41, Issue 6, pp. 791–810.
About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management
For more than four decades, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024 for the eighth consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2023/2024 for seven years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 2 in the world among university-based programmes in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 for the ninth consecutive year, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.
The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from 21 countries and regions around the world, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

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The Damai Bali Nominated for TOP25 Hotels Bali

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The Damai Bali Nominated for TOP25 Hotels Bali - TRAVELINDEX

The Damai Bali Nominated for TOP25 Hotels Bali - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, July 22, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Damai, Bali’s renowned exclusive villa hotel, is proud to announce its nomination for the prestigious TOP25 Hotels – World’s Best Luxury Hotels award in Bali. This coveted recognition highlights The Damai’s commitment to excellence in hospitality, culinary distinction, and its unique offering of secluded luxury on the Island of the Gods.

This prestigious nomination elevates The Damai’s brand prestige and boosts its visibility across Bali and Asian luxury travel market. As a nominee The Damai stands out in a competitive landscape, attracting discerning travelers seeking exclusive, romantic, and secluded experiences. This recognition reinforces guest confidence, drives demand from high-end clientele, and motivates the team to maintain exceptional service standards. Moreover, it opens opportunities for strategic partnerships and positions the hotel to advance as a potential winner of the prestigious TOP25 Hotels Bali Awards.

A Sanctuary of Seclusion and Romance

Nestled in the lush hills of northern Bali, The Damai has long been celebrated as a sanctuary for travelers seeking tranquillity away from the island’s bustling crowds. With its collection of private villas, breathtaking views, and personalized service, The Damai has become a favorite among discerning guests and honeymooners looking for an intimate, romantic escape.

Recognition That Elevates Guest Experience

Bali is already recognized as the world’s top trending honeymoon destination for 2025, with its blend of romantic restaurants, adult-only hotels, and a wealth of couples’ activities. The Damai’s nomination for a prestigious luxury hotel award further strengthens this perception, highlighting Bali’s appeal for couples seeking privacy, exclusivity, and memorable experiences.

The nomination for the TOP25 Hotels award enhances The Damai’s appeal to:
Couples seeking a romantic honeymoon in an idyllic, private setting.
Travelers desiring a peaceful retreat with world-class amenities and attentive service.
Gastronomy enthusiasts eager to experience The Damai’s acclaimed culinary offerings, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative menus.

Commitment to Excellence

We are honored to be recognized among the world’s best luxury hotels,” said Mr. Andres Rubio, General Manager of The Damai. “This nomination is a testament to our team’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. We look forward to welcoming travelers from Bali, across Asia, and around the globe to discover the magic of The Damai.

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UN Tourism and E1 Series Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Mobility and Tourism Through Sport

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UN Tourism and E1 Series Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Mobility and Tourism Through Sport - TRAVELINDEX

UN Tourism and E1 Series Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Mobility and Tourism Through Sport - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, July 22, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism, the United Nations agency promoting the development of responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism, and E1 Series, the world’s first and only all-electric race boat championship, have signed an agreement to promote sustainable mobility and tourism through global sport.

The agreement was signed by E1 Series founder and Chairman Alejandro Agag – who has also been appointed a UN Tourism Special Ambassador for Sport – and Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General, on E1 Monaco race day.

Both organizations’ signature of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Monaco – regarded as an epicenter of sustainable marine mobility – highlights their mutual dedication to promoting clean marine transport technologies. In turn, this supports sustainable sports tourism development around the world.

E1 races around the world visiting iconic locations from Jeddah and Doha to Dubrovnik, and will soon travel to Lagos in Africa and then onto Miami for the 2025 season finale.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The intersection of sports and tourism offers immense potential for sustainable development, economic growth, and the promotion of cultural exchange. Our agreement with E1 Series is a step forward in realizing this potential.”

Joining the Secretary-General in signing the agreement, E1 founder and Chairman, Alejandro Agag, said: “This agreement between E1 and UN Tourism is a pivotal moment for sustainable sports tourism. Following my recent recognition for advancing electric mobility, I’m even more committed to demonstrating how sport can be a powerful catalyst for positive environmental change. By combining E1’s electric marine technology with UN Tourism’s global reach and expertise, we can create memorable experiences for fans while helping advance the protection of our marine environments.

His appointment highlights Mr. Agag’s dedication to driving sustainability into motorsport, promoting initiatives that align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In particular, UN Tourism and E1 Series will collaborate on initiatives that contribute to the achievement of SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). Together, both organizations will raise public awareness and promote action in marine conservation, prioritizing the protection and restoration of diverse coastal and marine ecosystems.

Sports Tourism: Growing Relevance

Every year, more than 180 million international tourists travel to attend sport events around the world from global to local tournaments. Sport connects people across borders and cultures, creating shared experiences and lasting legacies.

With an approximate value of $685 billion in 2024, and with a 17.5% annual growth rate, sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors within tourism. The tourism and sports sectors are closely linked via their impact both socially and culturally and their roles in economic diversification and social development.

The collaboration between UN Tourism and E1 Series will contribute to advancing the understanding of sports tourism’s potential.

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