Posts Tagged :

Hotels

SMILING AGAIN IN VARADERO

 1080 490 wttc2
By:

Cuba is smiling again with the return of visitors as the country (and world) emerges from over two years of COVID pause. I was one of them, having attended the recent 40th anniversary of the island’s annual travel trade fair FITCuba.

Taking place in Varadero, Canadian delegates (transported courtesy of Sunwing), learned that, while shuttered during the pandemic like most countries, Cuba certainly wasn’t idle – including a complete makeover of the famed beach resort town, which I hardly recognized, despite having been there many times.

During my visits to Cuba over the years, I’ve stayed in most of the Melia Resorts on the island; this time it was the newish five-star, all-inclusive Melia International Varadero, built in 2019.

Boasting a beach in front of the hotel that is considered the finest stretch of white sand in Varadero, the central building has 11 floors divided into east and west zones with 946 rooms, most with ocean views.

Other amenities include six swimming pools, tropical gardens, beach area, panoramic lifts, shopping gallery, and spacious lounges.

Melia Internacional Varadero, beach view

Of course, there are extensive dining options with 20 venues that include buffet, à la carte and off-menu restaurants, as well as several snack bars and themed bars situated in a dining “boulevard” in the central building.

The rooms have been designed with avant-garde flair and are equipped with the most advanced technology (and free WiFi!). Fortunately, the bell captain taught me how it all worked, and when I had to call the front desk for additional instructions, they picked up immediately and explained patiently how to do it.

The Level and The Level Adults-Only floor is known for its premium services and facilities and the top-floor YHI Spa has an infinity pool, dedicated teen zone, and stunning views of the beach.

The hotel also has a large area equipped with all kinds of facilities for children and families. I loved watching the children playing hour after hour in the huge kid’s pool.

Spa view

And in the centre of the enormous adult pool, they put a barge out for a live band to perform, which meant I could sit on my balcony to enjoy it.

The property also features a modern Conference Centre and space for events and weddings.

Varadero

Next to the hotel is the new Continental Cabaret Nightclub, a real highlight of Varadero nightlife.

Naturally, there are other venues in town to be enjoyed, such as Xanadu Mansion, site of the Canadian reception at FIT, and boasting eight rooms that can be booked by your clients.

Indeed, visitors to Varadero will have trouble deciding which watering hole to visit – from the Parador Fotografico, to Factoria Varadero, Bodequita del Medio, and Bar Floridita, the list goes on.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Villa Le Blanc by Gran Meliá, First Carbon Neutral Luxury Hotel in Menorca

 1080 820 wttc2
By:

Villa Le Blanc by Gran Meliá, First Carbon Neutral Luxury Hotel in Menorca - TRAVELINDEXMenorca, Spain, July 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Villa Le Blanc, a 5-star luxury resort operated by Gran Meliá, will open at the end of July as the latest member of the Leading Hotels of the World, the only such hotel on the island of Menorca, and the Spanish hotel brand’s first energy-efficient carbon neutral hotel.

The fifteenth hotel in the Gran Meliá brand’s collection offers a choice of outstanding dining options that pay tribute to Menorcan cuisine and the island way of life, exquisitely designed rooms and suites with private pools, and a wellness area and spa operated by the French firm Anne Semonin.

The Villa Le Blanc Hotel boasts an idyllic natural setting on Santo Tomás Beach on the Migjorn coast, halfway between Mahón and Ciutadella. An ideal location for discovering all the cultural and natural attractions of the island of Menorca, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993.

The renovation of what was once the Sol Beach House Hotel was led by the architect Álvaro Sans, and combines simple and contemporary design with luxurious details. The hotel provides a total of 159 rooms, including 14 Premium Rooms and 86 Supreme Rooms. The Penthouse Suite, the Swim-Up Master Suite and Presidential Suite offer the widest range of luxury amenities, as well as sea views which can be enjoyed from their private balconies and private pools. Decorated predominantly in white and blue, with the large terraces and porches that are typical of Mediterranean island architecture, the spaces are designed to achieve a seamless merging of outdoor and indoor areas.

“Villa Le Blanc is inspired by the vernacular architecture of the island villages. Among other features, special prominence is given to the Menorcan arches and the whitewashed walls so typical of local houses. From a technical point of view, we have rescued the traditional use of tiles, which have been used through the ages in Menorca to combat the rainy winters and which traditionally were always painted white to reflect the heat in summer,” explains Álvaro Sans, from the ASAH studio, architect of Villa Le Blanc.

The hotel aims to achieve a carbon neutral footprint by incorporating facilities and technologies that will enable it to reduce its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 87%. In addition, the hotel will explore alternatives to offset the remaining emissions and thus ensure its full carbon neutrality status (net zero), contributing to Meliá’s decarbonisation objectives.

“Villa Le Blanc is a dream come true for our company,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Vice President and CEO of Meliá. “A project like this allows us to move forward towards hotel decarbonisation. It is also in such a special place as the Biosphere Reserve of Menorca, making it one of the most tangible results of our commitment to a hotel model based on excellence, responsibility and sustainability.”

The hotel dining facilities pay tribute to local products, with the exquisite cuisine in the different restaurants using the finest fresh ingredients from the island farms.

The Menorcan S’Amarador Restaurant is an iconic venue in the town of Ciutadella, widely recognised as one of the top seafood restaurants on the island. Famous for a wine cellar with more than a hundred fine wines and for working with only the finest local produce to prepare its delicious rice dishes and seafood bisques, accompanied by the freshest fish from the local fish market, with a particular focus on one of the culinary highlights of the Balearic sea: the local red lobster.

Located on the first floor, and in the terrace looking to the sea, S’Amarador offers a tribute to the cuisine of the mother restaurant in Ciutadella. The restaurant preserves and adapts all the traditions of the ancient fishermen’s taverns that used to be located throughout the port area in olden times.

In addition to S’Amarador, the restaurateur Joan Canals brings all of his expertise and the personality of the Ulises Restaurant to a new venue named Cru. Reflecting the purest essence of the ingredients that are harvested from the island’s land and sea, Canals perfectly combines fresh local fish, shellfish, vegetables and olive oils with the most contemporary techniques and presentation.

For travellers seeking greater harmony and well-being, the hotel is also home to a temple to health and beauty thanks to Anne Semonin Paris. With treatments and experiences based on vegan cosmetics and natural products, this is the third spa in Spain for Anne Semonin, joining a number of spas in select locations in the most exclusive hotels in the world, including luxury resorts in Japan, Hong Kong, Doha, Greece and the Maldives.

Villa Le Blanc is also launching a new line of in-room amenities with bathroom products and aromas designed by the Carner Barcelona artisan perfumers. A new experience for the senses that combines to perfection with the splendour and attractiveness of the Mediterranean.

The hotel is owned by the company Victoria Hotels & Resorts, created in 2021 by Meliá Hotels International, Bankinter Investment and other investors who are customers of the bank, and also with GMA acting as the managing partner. All of the partners involved in the project share a strong commitment to sustainability, as shown in the exemplary transformation of this iconic hotel.

Average price: From 750 euros per night.
Number of suites and villas: 45.
Price of the suites: 1,200 euros per night.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ITB Asia Forms Strategic Partnership to Host Singapore MICE Forum

 500 300 wttc2
By:

ITB Asia Forms Strategic Partnership to Host Singapore MICE Forum - MICEindex.com - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, July 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The parties will jointly organize the Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) event, which is scheduled to coincide with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia, taking place as an in-person event in Singapore. ITB Asia is back and on track for a physical event in October and shines light on new collaboration with Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), the national trade association for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions and events in Singapore. A corresponding partnership agreement has been signed between the two institutions to host the “Singapore MICE Forum” event, which will be co-located with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia in Singapore.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, your travel guide, go to VisitSingapore.org

Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) is SACEOS’ premier annual event that brings together global and regional MICE players to foster partnerships and international collaboration. The one-day event will be held on 20 October 2022 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. The event is expected to attract more than 250 meetings and event professionals and 50 expert speakers from the global MICE industry.

The partnership aims to leverage the extensive networks of business, government, and travel trade contacts to attract even more experts and key industry players, laying the foundation for new initiatives and activities for the MICE segment.

Through this new agreement, SACEOS will also be ITB Asia’s knowledge partner, curating high quality conference sessions within MICE Show Asia as well as providing insightful content and high-level speakers for the Singapore MICE Forum, which brings together industry players, promotes learning and uncovers trends from forward-thinking MICE leaders.

Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiser of ITB Asia, commented: “Hosting Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) at ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia is a significant step in fostering and enabling growth in the MICE and Events sector in the region. We are looking forward to a successful partnership with SACEOS and leverage on its decades of experience in the MICE industry. Its educational approach and content will be a great asset to all ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia’s participants.”

Richard Ireland, President, Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), said: “The spirit of connection, collaboration and innovation has always been at the core of the MICE industry’s purpose. As business events in the region come back to life, there is no better platform for the industry to gain new insights and exchange views on new opportunities and trends than the Singapore MICE Forum (SMF). Driven by the partnership with ITB Asia, we are confident that the SMF 2022 will continue to be the choice networking and learning platform for the region’s MICE industry.”

MICE Show Asia, co-located with ITB Asia, will bring together global and regional meeting planners and event organizers for three days. Together with its partners SACEOS and IAPCO, the event will feature educational training sessions and workshops that caters to the needs of the industry. A dedicated hosted buyers’ program for MICE Show Asia is set to bring international buyers who are in-charge of travel procurement.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, your travel guide, go to VisitSingapore.org

About ITB Asia
ITB Asia, Asia’s leading travel trade show, is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The annual B2B trade show and convention will feature hundreds of exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering not only the leisure market, but also MICE and corporate travel. Exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities and travel technology companies are all expected to attend.

ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry for forging new partnerships and strengthening existing business relationships with the most important players in the region.

About MICE Show Asia
MICE Show Asia is the premier MICE event in Asia where incentive travel, meetings and events industries come together to connect and build the future of MICE. The annual business-to-business trade show and convention featured industry suppliers, meetings & events professionals to up-and-coming MICE innovators from a wide range of disciplines, sectors, and all levels of seniority. The show is co-located with ITB Asia and Travel Tech Asia.

About SACEOS
Set up in 1979, SACEOS (Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers) is the trade association for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions & Events industry in Singapore.

In everything we do, SACEOS aims to advance the MICE & Events community, through serving and connecting industry players, driving initiatives that empower businesses, and leading advocacy efforts at industry and national levels.

We work closely with government bodies such as STB (Singapore Tourism Board) and ESG (Enterprise Singapore), industry players, universities, as well as regional and global industry associations to address key challenges and create new opportunities for the MICE & Events industry.

About Singapore MICE Forum
The Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) is recognised in Singapore and around the region as the choice event to connect industry players, promote learning and uncover emerging and evolving trends in MICE. And as business events in the region come back to life, there is no better platform for the industry to do just that than the SMF. The SMF 2022 will focus around 4 key topics – In Person Events with a Fresh Lens, Big Data & Analytics, Sustainability and Metaverse. Participants can look forward to dynamic panel discussions and glean expert insights from thought leaders within and outside of the industry.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Maslina Resort Croatia Celebrates Its Annual Lavender Festival

 500 318 wttc2
By:

Maslina Resort Croatia Celebrates Its Annual Lavender Festival - VISITCROATIA.org - TRAVELINDEXHvar, Croatia, July 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / An abundance of lavender is found in vast fields on Hvar, the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian Islands and home to the five-star Maslina Resort. Situated in Stari Grad overlooking the crystal waters of Maslinica Bay, Maslina Resort, a Relais & Chateaux property that champions a philosophy of Mindful Luxury, will offer lavender-inspired activities during the two-day festival, which takes place on the 15th-16th of July. In addition to being the sunniest island in Europe, widely recognised for its healing environment, and accorded UNESCO heritage status, the aromatic lavender fields of Hvar are emblematic of the Dalmatian way of life. During the two-day celebrations, the entire island joins together to celebrate the evergreen plant’s historical and cultural importance.

There’s nothing that says summer more than smell of emanating their signature fragrance in the warm sea island air. This native European plant is a bushy, strong-scented perennial herb with lavender flower spikes rising above its grey to green foliage. It is not only a beautiful garden plant but also has significant culinary and medicinal value. Guests staying at the resort during the festival can participate in a complimentary art workshop with a locally based artist, where they can design lavender-inspired artwork to take away as a souvenir.

During the two days, in-house and walk-in guests can also try the resort’s Michelin-recommended restaurant specially curated Lavender Menu. The tasting menu starts with bite-sized lavender macarons with goat cheese and honey, followed by octopus with lavender caviar and green essence, beef fillet with a lavender and pistachio crust for the main course, and a lavender gel bonbon with lavender-infused cream, ice cream, and strawberries for dessert. The resort’s expert mixologist will also be on hand with a special vodka-based cocktail lavished with lavender syrup.

The resort’s Pharomatiq Spa, which follows a garden-to-skin concept, already uses lavender in its regular treatments, from eye covers infused with lavender flowers, essential oils used during massages, and little lavender soaps for guests after their therapies. The spa’s signature treatment, the Adriatic Rejuvenation treatment, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the world of Adriatic fragrances. A minced olive kernel and peppermint-infused exfoliation that will energise and uplift your senses are followed by oat milk and lavender soak that leaves your skin soft and velvety, and a customised aromatherapy massage that confers a sense of deep relaxation and pampering.

The annual lavender festival dovetails perfectly with the rich cultural and natural heritage of Hvar Island. Brought to life in the cultural, culinary, and therapeutic settings of Maslina Resort, the two-day celebrations expand the boundaries of the mindful luxury ethos that honours the natural world-a celebration for the body and soul.

About Maslina Resort
Maslina Resort is a contemporary, five-star resort on the Croatian Island of Hvar, located near Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in the eastern Adriatic. Situated in the stunning Maslinica Bay, Maslina Resort is surrounded by olive groves and terraced vineyards and stretches across two hectares of lush pine forest overlooking the crystalline Adriatic Sea. Boasting 50 rooms and suites and three villas, Maslina Resort is a mindful luxury resort that holds wellness, family, culinary arts, cultural heritage, and authenticity as its core.

Getting There
Many airlines including British Airways, Easy Jet, Jet 2, and Whizz Air fly from many regional and London airports direct to Split. The flight time is approximately two hours and 30 minutes. From Split Airport, the transfer by speed boat takes 60 minutes. Dubrovnik and Brač airports are also nearby. Private car and speedboat transfers can be arranged from any of these locations.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Rediscover Koh Lanta at Thailand’s Eco-Sensitive Five-Star Sanctuary

 500 298 wttc2
By:

Rediscover Koh Lanta at Thailand's Eco-Sensitive Five-Star Sanctuary - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXKoh Lanta, Thailand, July 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / What do you dream of when you imagine escaping to a tropical Thai island? Do you long to discover unspoiled beaches and hidden coves, and swim in crystal clear seas surrounded by colourful fish? Do you desire to trek through the lush rainforest? Does your body ache for a soothing Thai massage or do your taste buds crave the country’s famous food? At Pimalai Resort & Spa, the five-star sanctuary on the serene shores of Koh Lanta, all of these activities and experiences lie in wait for European travellers.

Unlike Thailand’s busier resort destinations, Koh Lanta has retained its authentic charm. Tourists have been almost completely absent for the last two years, but this downtime gave Pimalai a unique opportunity to enhance its facilities and replenish the environment. Now, this luxury resort is ready to welcome guests back to paradise! Nestled in 100 acres of jungle, cascading down to a 900-metre-long beach, Pimalai has always strived to preserve its surroundings. Filled with exotic plants and native species such as hornbills and flying squirrels, the resort feels like a private nature reserve. A new free-of-charge walking tour lets guests uncover this eco paradise, including its cashew nut trees, and two trekking trails allow intrepid explorers to hike to Klong Chak waterfall or Lam Tanode, where Koh Lanta’s famous lighthouse awaits. A professional guide can be arranged.

For those who prefer offshore adventures, Pimalai has crafted two dreamy day trips. The “Emerald Cave & Koh Ngai Excursion” offers the chance to swim in a stunning hidden lagoon and relax on a pristine beach, surrounded by unspoiled jungle, while the “Talabeng Scenic Cruise” lets explorers uncover Koh Talabeng, which has been nicknamed “Little Halong Bay” due to its dramatic limestone karsts, cliffs and caves. Unlike the Vietnamese seascape however, this enchanting archipelago is wonderfully secluded with few tourist boats. Both excursions let guests swim in the sea, savour snacks and cool drinks aboard the boat, and end in Koh Lanta’s old town, which is filled with traditional shophouses and seafood restaurants. Alternatively, a mangrove tour lets guests head out on a gondola boat and delve deep into this environmentally rich coastal forest.

For travellers who love learning new skills, Pimalai has relaunched its popular Thai cooking classes. The resort’s chefs will escort visitors on a tour of the organic gardens to pick fresh herbs, before using them to craft a delicious dish. Non-motorised water sports, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, are available free-of-charge, Thai boxing sessions offer invigorating workouts and yoga sessions promote mindfulness in a stunning setting, with panoramic sea and sunset views.

Alternatively, wellness seekers can soothe their senses at the award-winning Pimalai Spa, which has now unveiled four new massages that embrace ancient Thai healing wisdom. The 60-miniute “Pregnancy Massage” is full-body treatment that has been used in Thailand for centuries to cater to the unique needs of mothers-to-be, while the 90-minute “Hot Bamboo Fusion Massage” uses gently-heated bamboo to stimulate circulation. The 90-minute “Hot Stone Massage” involves placing a series of warm basalt stones to promote relaxation, and the 30-minute “Oriental Scalp Massage” is a centuries-old therapy that eases tension in the upper body.

Guests can also make a difference to the lives of local communities in Koh Lanta during their stay. The resort’s beach cleaning sessions let travellers come together with staff members and islanders to keep Koh Lanta’s coastlines free from litter, which often washes ashore and can pose a danger to marine life. It is no surprise that Pimalai was accepted into Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s (SLH) Considerate Collection, an exclusive community of only 26 socially responsible and eco-conscious five-star hotels worldwide.

With just 121 stylish rooms, spacious suites and breath-taking villas with up to three bedrooms and private pools, every visitor can unwind in blissful seclusion at Pimalai. Named as the best hotel in Thailand in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards in 2022, this heavenly hideaway also features world-class restaurants, a superb Sports Centre with tennis, badminton and basketball courts, a running track and cycling trails, and two infinity pools that appear suspended in the forest canopy, overlooking the ocean. Children will be inspired, educated and entertained at the Kid’s Corner.

“Ever since Pimalai was founded, our goal has been to highlight the best experiences Koh Lanta has to offer and let guests enjoy them sensitively, without any of the negative side-effects of tourism. The last two years have allowed us to take a step back and re-examine our operations. As a result, we have devised a new 10-year plan for preserving the environment and designed a series of new activities and excursions that highlight the beauty of Koh Lanta. We can’t wait to welcome our cherished international clientele back to Pimalai for their dream tropical Thai vacation,” said Charintip Tiyaphorn, Pimalai’s Owner Representative.

Pimalai is now inviting European guests to book early and benefit from significant savings for their next vacation. Under the “Early Bird Promotion”, discounts of 10-30% are available for bookings made in advance. Rates start from THB 5,820 net. Alternatively, the “Long Stay Promotion” starts from THB 8,315 net and includes up to seven free nights if guests stay for seven or more nights. Both offers are valid from now until 31st October 2024.

About Pimalai Resort & Spa
Koh Lanta’s first five-star resort, Pimalai Resort & Spa has been redefining luxury hospitality on this idyllic Andaman island since it launched almost two decades ago. This property cascades through 100 acres of tropical jungles easing its way towards one of Thailand’s best beaches: Kantiang Bay. It’s here that guests while the days away lounging on what often feels like a private beach or spend action-packed afternoons out in the cerulean sea scuba diving, snorkelling or simply relaxing on a sunset cruise. A smattering of local bars and restaurants line the beach, but its Pimalai’s onsite eateries that tend to steal the show.

The legendary Rak Talay beachfront bar and restaurant is as loved for the sumptuous Thai-style seafood as it is its sunset setting, while nestled in the resort’s jungle interior, Seven Seas serves up Michelin-chef-conceived menus throughout the evening. Guests can also indulge in an array of onsite wellness experiences, ranging from traditional Muay Thai classes to early evening tennis matches and pampered afternoons at the signature Pimalai Spa. With no immediate neighbours, the 121-room resort is a serene sanctuary where guests can feel completely at peace in their private surroundings. From Hillside Ocean Pool Villas that command vistas of the stunning scenery through to the Beachside Villas, situated only a few short steps away from the shoreline, rooms at Pimalai cater to all tastes with spacious layouts and designs that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IN THE PINK: Atlantis undergoing ‘massive’ renovation

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

Atlantis Paradise Island, The Bahamas’ iconic “pink” resort, is going “bigger and bolder” with a multimillion-dollar renovation and a host of new partnerships. The latest chapter in the life of the nearly 25-year-old resort will include “massive upgrades and striking enhancements” designed to continue its legacy of “exuding Bahamian culture (and) serving as a marvel and custodian of marine life,” says the Nassau resort.

Known for its famous pink hue and 80 km of white sand beaches on Paradise Island, the resort will notably redevelop Beach Tower and all Royal Tower guestrooms and suites, reimagine the Atlantis Casino, and add another Michelin-starred chef to its dining roster.

Among the changes:

CUISINE

• Chef Michael White, the multi-starred New York Times and Michelin recognized Italian chef, and former chef/owner of prominent dining destinations Convivio, Alto, Ai Fiori and Marea in New York City, is joining Nobu Matsuhisa and José Andrés, making Atlantis the only resort in the region to boast three Michelin star-rated chefs. The four-time James Beard Award nominee will serve modern coastal Italian cuisine at his latest outpost, Paranza at The Cove, expected to open this year.

• Pita, a Mediterranean-style beachside concession situated near Atlantis’ renowned Aquaventure, offers homemade shawarma, falafel, chilled bites, dips, salads, and desserts to satisfy all-day cravings.


ACCOMMODATION

• Renovation of all guestrooms and suites in The Royal East Tower will be complete this summer, closely followed by newly renovated rooms and suites in The Royal West Tower. Design elements celebrate the natural seascape of aquamarine waters, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs to inspire a soothing environment where guests can relax and unwind.

• The Royal’s renowned Bridge Suite is on track for total renovation and completion in 2023. The epitome of relaxed luxury on a grand scale, the design elements will include bold, organic, rich, and opulent textures and details that reflect the legend of Atlantis and its oceanic design motif found throughout the resort. Gold finishes will remind guests of found treasures of the lost city of Atlantis.

• Atlantis will open a brand-new “oasis within an oasis,” resort dubbed Somewhere Else. Replacing the current site of The Beach Tower, this unique oceanfront escape, opening in 2024, will offer 400 guestrooms and suites alongside top-tier dining venues, lushly landscaped grounds, multiple pools, recreation areas, upscale amenities, and live performances – all within easy reach of the myriad of dining and entertainment options synonymous with Atlantis.

ENTERTAINMENT

• The Atlantis Casino will undergo a refresh that will include modern finishes, and flowing lines echoing the refractions of the sea. Other updates will include the expansion of the Atlantis Casino’s two on-site lounges, an exciting high-limit slots lounge, and an expansion of the exclusive gaming salon.

• The Cove, the resort’s luxury all-suite hotel, recently debuted the Lapis Club Lounge offering daily breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, and a full-service bar along with views of Paradise Island. The hotel also introduced Sapphire Services, new bespoke concierge offerings, including bookable experiences such as intimate beach dinners, exclusive programming at the resort’s 5.7- hectare marine mammal habitat, Dolphin Cay, and private cabanas. The adults-only Cove Pool will also undergo a refresh.

• Splashers, the pool and water playground for Atlantis’s youngest guests, will be adding thrill slides, climbing areas, and more later this year.

Meanwhile, Atlantis Blue Project Foundation (ABPF), the resort’s non-profit and conservation organization, celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Since its inception in 2007, the foundation has been an environmental leader in The Bahamas, creating coral nurseries to propagate corals, cultivating, and donating hundreds of mangroves each year to help restore wetlands around The Bahamas, and educatethe local community about ocean conservation.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Let’s Play! Augmented Reality Takes Off at Moxy Hotels with the “Moxy Universe, Play Beyond” Asia Pacific Campaign

 840 473 wttc2
By:

Moxy Universe Play Beyond
Moxy Universe Play Beyond

Moxy® Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, announced today the launch of the “Moxy Universe, Play Beyond” augmented reality experience in Asia Pacific. Designed for the young-at-heart, Moxy boldly breaks the rules of a conventional hotel stay, bringing its “Play On” experiences from the hotel to the virtual world through the Moxy Universe. The campaign video is available on YouTube.

From Shanghai to Tokyo, guests are invited to explore the Moxy Universe with their own avatar in 12 Moxy hotels across Asia Pacific from July 12 through December 31, 2022. Before arriving in-person to each hotel, guests can access the Moxy Universe via mobile devices to customize their own avatar, with a selection of hairstyles, outfits, and accessories. Upon checking in at the hotel’s signature Bar Moxy, guests will instantly enter the Moxy Universe by scanning a designated QR marker to unlock a minimum of five challenges throughout the hotel’s guestroom and public spaces to win great prizes.

“We are very excited to launch the ‘Moxy Universe, Play Beyond’ experience across all Moxy hotels in the Asia Pacific region,” said Jennie Toh, Vice President, Brand Marketing and Brand Management Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “Moxy has always challenged the status quo by inviting guests to live in the moment. With the campaign, we are bringing Moxy’s ‘Play On’ spirit to another dimension through fun, immersive experiences while creating greater connections with our guests.”

Unlock Challenges in Every Corner of the Moxy Universe

Bar Moxy in the Moxy Universe
Bar Moxy in the Moxy Universe

Whether as a guest or avatar, visitors can fully immerse into the always-buzzing world of Moxy at the hotel and unlock challenges in the Moxy Universe simultaneously. Step into Bar Moxy – the social heart of the hotel, which doubles up as the hotel’s front desk and offers guests a “Got Moxy” cocktail upon check-in. After getting their room keys, guests can scan the QR marker at the bar to view holographic projections and take photos with life-sized avatars as they sip curated cocktails.

At Moxy’s 24/7 Grab & Go self-service concept, guests can access what they want, whenever they want with snacks and beverages to satisfy any late-night cravings. At the Grab & Go area, guests can also unlock a challenge by taking a photo with their avatar and hashtagging #moxyuniverse.

Exercise can be even more fun with an avatar that doubles up as a workout buddy. Guests can take the challenge and sweat it out with their avatar at the hotel’s 24-hour Fitness Center decked out with a boxing bag, signature racing bike, and other equipment.

Moxy’s stylish and smart bedrooms intermix edgy details with functionality and are cleverly designed to maximize space, allowing guests the flexibility to adapt the room to their needs. Enjoy the smart features of a fun-sized work surface and peg walls instead of closets, as the avatar will need all the space when they start busting dance moves on the bed for the challenge.

The fun and playful energy of Moxy can be found across vibrant destinations in Asia Pacific, such as the Moxy Osaka Shin Umeda, just around the corner from Osaka’s buzzing shopping and entertainment districts. The brand’s spirited lifestyle touches include the signature Bar Moxy, high-energy spaces such as The Terrace, and graffiti-emblazoned Lounge where guests can sip on cocktails and socialize. Located in the heart of Seoul, Moxy Seoul Insadong makes the perfect basecamp for the young-at-heart to let loose in the city. Before hitting the town, guests can enjoy the panoramic city views from its off-the-wall rooftop bar, Seoul at Moxy. Moxy Shanghai Hongqiao NECC, the first Moxy hotel in Mainland China, also takes play seriously. The hotel’s spirited Crew members are always on to connect with travelers in a playful way over boardgames and fun events.

To learn more about the Moxy Hotels, visit moxy-hotels.marriott.com and join the conversation @moxyhotels.

Moxy Hotels participates in Marriott Bonvoy®, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy members earn points for their stay, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences, including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

###

About Moxy® Hotels
Moxy offers a playful hotel experience for the young at heart. With 110 properties open across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, Moxy boldly breaks the rules of a conventional hotel stay across the globe. The nontraditional experience starts with check-in at Bar Moxy and comes to life throughout its social public spaces, like the Lounge and Library, and the small but smart bedrooms. Moxy provides stylish, industrial design and sociable service at an attractive price point, so that guests can splurge on the experiences that matter most to them during their travels. Moxy celebrates nonconformity, open-mindedness, and originality above all – forever giving its guests permission to Play On #atthemoxy. For more information, visit www.moxyhotels.com and join the fun #atthemoxy on Instagram. Moxy 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.

Media Contact
Cynthia Lai
Marriott International
Cynthia.hc.lai@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA and GBTA to Host APAC Travel Summit in Bangkok

 500 294 wttc2
By:

PATA and GBTA to Host APAC Travel Summit in Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) in partnership with the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) will host their inaugural PATA & GBTA APAC Travel Summit at the new, state-of-the-art Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand from December 8-9, 2022. The two-day, first-of-its-kind joint event in Asia will address sustainability and best practices in the tourism, MICE, and corporate travel spheres.

The joint event in Asia will address sustainability and best practices in the tourism, MICE, and corporate travel spheres. The two-day educational and tradeshow event, under the theme “Defining a Responsible, Sustainable Future for Business, Tourism and MICE,” will highlight the challenges and solutions for CO2 emissions, destination sustainability options, and procurement-oriented approaches in the context of the global and Asia-Pacific region’s pandemic recovery. Targeted attendees and sponsors are regional and global travel suppliers including top airlines, hotel and ground/car rental brands – as well as MICE and corporate travel decision-makers from the world’s largest travel companies and travel management companies.

“We are delighted to be working with GBTA in bringing together both of our industry networks to share insights and discuss opportunities and best practices for the responsible and sustainable growth of the travel and tourism industry,” said PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera. “At PATA, we support the industry recovery, pursuit of emerging travel opportunities and sustainable travel practices for the region. Therefore, I invite all of our members, partners and industry colleagues to join us and engage in this travel forum to reconnect, get informed and collaborate.”

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is the world’s premier business travel and meetings trade organization, with a growing global network of more than 28,000 travel professionals and 125,000 active contacts. Headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area with operations on six continents, GBTA’s members manage more than US$345 billion of global business travel and meetings expenditures annually.

“The path to recovery for the global travel industry continues for both tourism and business travel. However, there’s also the opportunity and need to create a better, more sustainable way forward to serve the industry and the planet as well. We are pleased to join forces with PATA to bring to event attendees the important insights, learnings and discussions on what a sustainable future might look like and the actions that we can take in the region as well as across the globe to get there,” said Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which including government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing, India and London.

About GBTA
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is the world’s largest business travel and meetings trade organization headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area with operations across six continents. GBTA’s members manage more than $345 billion of global business travel and meetings expenditures annually. GBTA delivers world-class education, events, research, advocacy and media to a growing global network of more than 28,000 travel professionals and 125,000 active contacts.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Barefoot Elegance at Sala Beach House on Dolphin Coast

 500 272 wttc2
By:

Barefoot Elegance at Sala Beach House on Dolphin Coast - SOUTHAFRICATOURISM.org - TRAVELINDEXDurban, South Africa, July 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The exquisite new Sala Beach House opens on South Africa’s Dolphin Coast. South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal coastline has an exciting new boutique hotel – the effortlessly stylish Sala Beach House which opens this month.

Sala (meaning “stay” in Zulu) is an intimate, privately owned & run boutique hotel nestled between Ballito and Shaka’s Rock and offers breathtaking, uninterrupted ocean views Dolphin Coast, with private beach access to the protected tidal pool and gorgeous, sandy sheltered swimming beach at Thompson’s Bay.

The property comprises a main house with four luxury guestrooms, three incredibly spacious suites sharing the use of 2 pools, as well as a separate, self-contained 3-bedroom private villa with its own pool.

Soft textured furnishings and muted tones partner perfectly with carefully selected contemporary, natural furnishings and décor. The mood and balance set is one of rest, relaxation, sea air and sunshine.

No expense has been spared with in-room amenities and conveniences – from coffee makers to USB ports and international sockets (in abundance on both sides of the bed – this excites us !)

We are sure this new hideaway will fast become a firm favourite with singles and couples wanting a smaller, boutique offering and the coastal surrounding. However, with just 10 rooms, Sala Beach House is also the perfect sole use location for celebrations and multi-generational gatherings too.

Sala’s prime location guarantees “wow” factor as a backdrop to its infinity pool, yoga deck and fire pit. Just twenty minutes from King Shaka International Airport, Sala Beach is positioned as the perfect ‘beach’ partner for a safari pairing in northern Zululand.

The Sala Spa will be launching in August and promises to deliver rejuvenation and relaxation with signature treatments and locally sourced amenities.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aloft Bangkok Unveils Savor + Staycation Promotion

 1080 720 wttc2
By:

Aloft Bangkok Unveils Savor + Staycation Promotion - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Marriott International’s Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 today unveils its latest rooms promotion ‘Savor + Staycation’ allowing guests to staycation in style in the heart of Bangkok with 1-hour free flow drinks, hotel food credit and many more.

Available to stay during Thursday – Monday until 30 September 2022 only, price starts from THB 3,399++ and guest can enjoy daily food credit of THB 500, 1-hour free flow drinks at W XYZ bar during 4 PM until late, 20% off food, beverage & laundry and many more.

Just steps from vibrant attractions, nightlife, clubs and bars, Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 is an urban gem in a stimulating travel destination. The hotel features loft-inspired rooms and suites with tech-smart features, free Wi-Fi, platform beds and panoramic views of the Bangkok cityscape. The prime location on Sukhumvit Road places the excitement of Soi 11 at your doorstep; guest can also take advantage of the free hotel shuttle to the Nana BTS SkyTrain and MRT subway stations for easy access to celebrated attractions.

Guest eligible to use Rao Tiew Duay Gun to benefit from this deal while rediscovering Bangkok at this stunning Sukhumvit hotel, other terms and conditions may apply.

To book this promotion, please visit https://www.marriott.com/offers/savor-staycation-off-51797?propertycode=bkkal

For more information, please call 02 207 7000

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News