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Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Reveals Its New Vision in Canada

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The brand’s new design approach is built upon creating community-fluid spaces that feel warm and inviting. Pictured above: Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport.

The new look of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is enlivened in Canada, signaling renewed optimism following one of the most challenging times for the travel sector. Sheraton, the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, is debuting its new modernized look with extensive renovations at three flagship properties in Canada – Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, and Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel. These hotels join the growing number of properties around the world exemplifying the brand’s design transformation, with nearly 50 hotels expected to be completed by year’s end.

“This marks another significant moment for Sheraton as our new vision arrives in Canada and continues to build momentum for our transformation journey around the world,” said Amanda Nichols, Global Brand Leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “We have long been part of the social fabric of communities across Canada and as travel resumes, we look forward to welcoming guests into this exciting new chapter for Sheraton.”

Drawing on its roots as a community hub for locals and guests, the new approach for Sheraton creates an intuitive and holistic experience with spaces to connect, be productive, and help travelers feel connected to the local community. In addition to seamless technology integration and an elevated food and beverage philosophy, the layered design balances a sense of timelessness with a fresh and modern feel, that aims to create an environment where guests feel comfortable and at ease, whether working, meeting or relaxing.

Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport: Ready for Take-Off

Sheaton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport
Sheraton Gateway’s $30 million top-to-bottom transformation reimagines the airport hotel experience.
Elaine Kilburn

Following nearly two years of renovation work, Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport is ready to debut a dramatically different airport hotel experience. The 484-room hotel, one of Canada’s busiest, has undergone a massive $30 million makeover bringing technology, design, and style to the international stopover, as part of Sheraton’s global design transformation. The renovation, now fully complete, is the latest example of an emerging generation of airport hotels that are intended to function as destinations, places where one might reasonably stay longer than a single night.

A captivating new arrival experience greets guests as they walk from the terminal through the doors of the hotel, the only property directly connected to the Toronto airport. Featuring a contemporary aesthetic, the lobby serves as the heart of the guest experience featuring brand signatures such as the Community Table, The Studios, sound-proof Booths – all fostering productivity, and &More by Sheraton – the brand’s signature bar, coffee, market concept. Additional amenities include a sophisticated Sheraton Club lounge, swimming pool and whirlpool, 24-hour fitness room and Peloton studio, updated meeting spaces, and completely remodeled guest rooms and suites.

“The transformation is nothing short of a metamorphosis,” says Douglas Brennan, General Manager, Sheraton Gateway in Toronto International Airport. “We’re excited to welcome guests to discover our modernized look.”

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel: Marks 50th Anniversary with Complete Reimagining

Sheraton Centre Toronto Downtown, YYZTC
Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is unveiling the most extensive renovation in the hotel’s 50-year history.
Elaine Kilburn

Toronto’s iconic Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel has been a staple in the downtown core for decades. The hotel has been completely reimagined with renovations and enhancements from top to bottom that continue to roll out throughout 2022 and mark the most extensive renovation in the hotel’s 50-year history.

As part of the first phase of the property’s reimagining, the exclusive Sheraton Club – floating in the clouds on the 43rd floor – welcomed a new look, experience, and service style in October. Available to Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and guests who upgrade their stay, the premium 15,000 square-foot gathering space is welcoming, elevated, and purposefully designed for a layered and engaging experience that transitions seamlessly with activations from morning to evening. Guests will find updated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity, and 24/7 access to provide a private environment.

The second phase introduces two new food and beverage outlets including the recently opened Dual Citizen – a coffeehouse style grab and go during the day, transitioning to a lobby bar in the evenings. Opening this spring, 43 Down will be a departure from the traditional hotel restaurant. With its beverage-forward concept, 43 Down focuses on mixology as an art form, delivering perfectly on the classics through handcrafted cocktails. Offering locally inspired flavors from Toronto’s diverse culinary scene, 43 Down blends intimacy and connectedness, acting as a backdrop for an informal business meeting or social gathering.

The final phases are expected to roll out this spring with the unveiling of public spaces and amenities that foster community-building and productivity. This can be seen through the bustling spaces featuring the brand’s signature Community Tables, tech-enabled Studios, and soundproofed Booths, and purpose-built workspaces, found in the expansive hotel lobby. Additionally, the indoor/outdoor heated pool experience is slated to re-open summer 2022.

“It’s been an incredible journey watching the vision come to life. We’re bringing something entirely new to Toronto’s downtown core,” shares Tim Reardon, General Manager, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. “Already, we’ve had the pleasure of watching our guests admire the purposeful design elements and service upgrades in our Sheraton Club which opened this past fall. We cannot wait to welcome our guests back to see our completely transformed lobby area, food and beverage outlets, indoor and outdoor pool, as well as the exterior and port cochere.”

Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel: Sophisticated Urban Oasis

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Le Centre Sheraton Montreal reveals a sophisticated transformation that offers guests comfortable spaces to work, relax, and refresh.
Brandon Barre Photography

Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, the newly renovated Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel is ready to welcome guests to its 825 newly renovated guest rooms and suites. The serene, light-filled spaces range in size from a generous 310 sq ft to a sprawling 1,956 sq ft for the Presidential Suite. In the new rooms and suites, guests are welcomed into a bright, well-lit space with warm, residential appeal, along with new tools for productivity, such as a height-adjustable work table, integrated power and charging and layered lighting.

The Sheraton Club, located on the 37th floor of the hotel, is expected to reopen May 2022 with a bold new look and breathtaking views. True to the brand’s vision, the stylish and exclusive space is welcoming, elevated, and purposefully designed for an engaging experience, along with complimentary breakfast, evening appetizers, and a selection of refreshments.

The dynamic hotel is an ideal choice for leisure travelers, prized for its central location and ‘urban oasis’ offerings including sixth floor terrace, indoor lap pool, jacuzzi, spa, and 24-hour Sheraton Fitness Centre.

“Conveniently located in the bustling city center, the hotel is an ideal starting point to discover all Montreal has to offer, in a refreshingly contemporary environment,” said Bertil Fabre, General Manager, Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel.

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy members will earn points for their stays at the three properties, 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.

The three newly reimagined hotels add to the growing number of transformed properties in Canada including Sheraton Laval Hotel. In total, Sheraton has nearly 20 hotels in the country with six slated for transformation completion by end of 2023.

For hi-res photos of the three redesigned hotels, please click here.

To find out more about the new Sheraton experience, visit www.sheraton.marriott.com/experience/new-sheraton/.

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

About Sheraton® Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts makes it easy for guests to feel welcome at over 435 hotels in more than 70 countries and territories around the world. As the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands sitting at the center of hundreds of communities around the world, Sheraton has a rich heritage in creating a sense of belonging for guests, wherever they are in the world. Sheraton is currently undergoing a major brand transformation, creating a signature community experience for the next generation of travelers at properties across the globe. The new vision for Sheraton features intuitive design, tech-forward experiences, and upgrades to everything from public space and F&B to flexible meeting space. To learn more, visit www.sheraton.com. Stay connected to Sheraton on Facebook, and @sheratonhotels on Twitter and Instagram. Sheraton 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 Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and 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. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Media Contacts
James Bardwell
Global Communications, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
James.Bardwell@marriott.com

Tim Gallant
Siren Communications
PR Agency of Record for Sheraton Gateway Hotel in Toronto International Airport
tim@sirencommunications.com

Melanie Greco
tartanbond
PR Agency of Record for Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
melanie.greco@tartanbond.com

Christopher Spear
Director, Sales & Marketing, Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel
christopher.spear@sheraton.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Five Female Sommeliers Bring Star Power to an Intimate Wine Pairing Dinner

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Five Female Sommeliers Bring Star Power to an Intimate Wine Pairing Dinner - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, April 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrating the stellar rise of female sommeliers in the Kingdom, Madison Steakhouse at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel invites wine connoisseurs to delight in an exquisite five-course wine pairing dinner with five female sommeliers. Taking place on Friday, 29 April 2022, ‘An Ode to Passion’ event aims to power the future of wine stewardship in Thailand by helping its female wine professionals shine.

• Discover the Bangkok and Thailand’s Best Restaurants for Fine Dining at Top25Restaurants.com

From the choice of wine to food presentation, expect a distinctly feminine touch as the five wine professionals from some of Bangkok’s leading fine-dining establishments expertly guide you through their beverage selection and explain the origins and taste profile of each wine. Working closely with Anantara Siam chefs, they helped curate food pairings to complement five mystery wines selected across several flavour categories: water, wood, fire, earth and air. By revealing the labels only at the time of serving, the organisers aim to keep the spotlight on the sommeliers instead of the vineries.

An amuse-bouche of Atlantic seabass carpaccio, espelette pepper and prosecco granita will prepare the palates for the first starter of river trout confit served with sorrels and caviar beurre blanc and paired with “River Reflection”, a mystery wine selected by Sudarat Jankaew, an established Beverage Ambassador and Sommelier.

The next wine of the night, a complex white from Piedmont, will be paired with a starter of crispy giant tiger prawn, lemon chilli paste and shallot confit espuma. Prakaydaow Phoohuatalat, an Assistant Restaurant Manager and Sommelier at one of Bangkok’s finest five-star establishments, will be on hand to explain her choice and walk the guests through the tasting notes.

Chanidapha Rakpirom, Sommelier and Restaurant Manager at Ki Izakaya, named her selection “A Feminist on Fire”. An elegant red wine will be served with succulent roasted duck breast, parsnip and cherry duck jus. The second main course, deer and foie gras pithiviers with celeriac purée and blueberry sauce, will be accompanied by a complex, earthy, yet powerful red recommended by Atchara Wongthai Palleros, Sommelier at Central Wine Cellar.

• Discover the Bangkok and Thailand’s Best Restaurants for Fine Dining at Top25Restaurants.com

Rounding it all off is a perfectly balanced combination of pink chocolate, mulberry mint compote, strawberry crumble, rose gel and an exquisite champagne with notes of floral and red fruits chosen by Nutawan Jumpanak, Wine Guru at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel and Thailand’s First Female Best Sommelier in 2019.

Priced at THB 4,490++ per person, including wine pairings, ‘An Ode to Passion’ wine dinner will be served on Friday, 29 April 2022 from 6.30 pm to 9.00 pm at Madison, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bear Luxe Japan Signs Deal with Sabre to Increase Reach for Member Hotels

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Bear Luxe Japan Signs Deal with Sabre to Increase Reach for Member Hotels - DISCOVERJAPAN.org - TRAVELINDEXTokyo, Japan, April 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, today announced a new agreement with Japan-specific luxury travel platform and business-to-business membership portal Bear Luxe Japan, to better connect its hoteliers to global markets while creating elevated experiences for travellers.

• Emotion is today’s true luxury – We share emotions at Top25World.com – The World’s Emotive Collections

Inspired by the companions who accompanied aristocrats on their Grand Tours in the 17th to 19th centuries, who were known as Bear-leaders, Bear Luxe Japan is a global network of luxury travel designers, and leading Japanese luxury hotels in Japan. It aims to develop and deliver a luxury travel ecosystem to enable the international market to access the rich traditions and culture of Japan.

The new relationship will further cement Sabre’s growing footprint in Japan, while opening up further access for Bear Luxe member hoteliers – primarily consisting of independent Japanese luxury hotels – through the Sabre SynXis hospitality platform and Bear Luxe Japan’s international reach of the luxury travel market, to the markets and channels high-end travellers use to book their luxury trips to Japan. Bear Luxe will be utilizing a comprehensive suite of Sabre SynXis solutions to grow geographic reach, target the corporate travel market, drive increased bookings, and create personalized travel experiences.

“The absence of connectivity with the international luxury travel market has long been an industry-wide dilemma for Japanese luxury hotels. The anticipated partnership will be a game changer in bridging the market gap,” said Hiro Miyatake, co-founder and chief operating officer of Bear Luxe. “We’re also expecting that post-pandemic luxury travellers to Japan will have a more slow and deliberate approach to their trip and a desire for meaningful travel. As such, it is vital to us that we have the right technology partner, one that offers the right solutions in opening up new markets for our hoteliers, all while ensuring that luxury travellers are able to access the personalized experiences they want and expect on their trip.”

With this agreement, Bear Luxe hospitality members will be linked to hundreds of thousands of travel agents across the world through the Global Distribution System (GDS) connectivity solutions powered by Sabre SynXis, ensuring they can reach domestic and international travellers; strategically targeting markets which are able to travel, or have a desire to travel once borders re-open.

The new alliance will also enable the Bear Luxe platform to drive direct bookings, increase engagement and trigger conversions through the deep retail focus of the Sabre SynXis Booking Engine. Sabre’s corporate booking tools will provide Bear Luxe with the ability to connect with corporate travel buyers. Meanwhile, SynXis Voice Agent will elevate the call centre experience for potential guests, equipping Bear Luxe agents with the tools they need to minimize call handling times while increasing opportunities for ancillary sales.

“We’re thrilled that Bear Luxe has selected Sabre as its trusted, strategic technology partner in Japan,” said Frank Trampert, Global Managing Director, Sabre Hospitality Solutions. “We look forward to supporting them in their endeavours to open up further domestic, regional and international markets to Japanese hoteliers while helping visitors to experience the unique characteristics Japanese destinations have to offer.”

• Emotion is today’s true luxury – We share emotions at Top25World.com – The World’s Emotive Collections

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

About Bear Luxe Japan
Bear Luxe Japan is a Tokyo based, Japan-specific network of the country’s leading luxury travel suppliers and specialists in global travel design consisting of 70-member luxury hotels and over 200 international luxury travel agencies. Assistance on a wide range of luxury travel related services in Japan, from one- to two-week itineraries, executive meetings, and events to comprehensive menu of service reservations for ryokan, hotel, chauffeur, and unique experiences though a concierge service. Bear Luxe Japan is more than a network of Japanese luxury suppliers and a community of management and senior decision makers with the experience and expertise to respond to sophisticated procurement needs in luxury travel.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fusion Hotel Group Honors Earth Day Year Round

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Fusion Hotel Group Honors Earth Day Year Round - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam, April 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / While eco-initiatives shouldn’t be restricted to one day a year, Earth Day on April 22nd is a reminder that we need to act now – and always – when it comes to the health of the earth. This year’s theme, Invest in Our Planet, highlights how we can step up and each do our part for future generations.

Fusion Hotel Group, a wellness-focused hotel brand that began in Vietnam in 2008, has been updating its offering so that the wellness of the planet is considered just as much as the wellness of each guest.

“Physical wellness, mental wellness, and the wellness of our environment are all connected,” said Kevin Beauvais, CEO of Fusion Hotel Group. “Our concept of wellness has expanded over recent years as we recommit to the well-being of the planet.”

Here are a couple of eco-highlights from some of the Fusion properties in Vietnam.

Fusion Original Saigon Centre, set to make its debut in the coming months, will have a zero plastic policy. The new central city hotel is opting for in-room canned water, paper-wrapped wooden amenities, eco-friendly takeaway and compostable garbage bags, as well as a zero plastic policy when it comes to deliveries from suppliers. Recycling stations will be set up on all guest floors and the hotel is going paperless in the rooms, in the front-of-house and back-of-house.

Fusion Resort Cam Ranh, on the country’s south central coast, has made huge eco-strides over the course of the pandemic. They now have one of the largest resort farms in Vietnam – with more than 250 animals, a mango orchid, and a herb & vegetable garden of more than 3,000 square meters producing over 40 kg of fresh organic vegetables daily. The resort established the Fusion Farm school in 2020 where they teach daily complimentary classes to guests and employees’ children on how to care for animals and grow vegetables. All of their wet raw food waste is used to feed the animals, resulting in zero removal of waste from the property.

Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion embraces RRR (Reduce, Recycle, Reuse) at every level. At their on-site organic farm they use food waste to produce compost and feed their animals. The produce grown on the farm supplies the resort’s restaurants and staff canteen and any extra produce is sold to the staff or local community at a reduced rate. Last year the Alba team planted 2,000 trees after a storm damaged the surrounding forest. The damaged wood from fallen trees was also reused to build bridges on the property and make repairs. Among several other important initiatives Alba runs education programs with local children where they learn the value of organic farming, plastic reduction and environmental awareness.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Madison Restaurant on Favourite Wine Places Around the World

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Madison Restaurant on Favourite Wine Places Around the World - TOP25VINEYARDS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, April 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Madison Restaurant at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel has been selected to join the exclusive Star Wine List of more than 1,500 great wine bars and wine restaurants in over thirty countries. The selections on Star Wine List are made by a team of wine professionals around the world and venues cannot apply to be included on the list.

• Discover the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com

Madison sports a wine and Champagne collection of more than 200 labels with a wide range of go-to crowd-pleasers as well as low-intervention boutique producers. The Tony Chi-designed contemporary steakhouse’s extensive wine list was curated by the luxury hotel’s first female Head Sommelier and Thailand’s Best Sommelier 2019, Ms Nutawan Jumpanak (Khun Nuch).

Khun Nuch continuously strives to increase the complexity of the list to represent all regions of wine producing countries, offering diners a selection that ranges from very approachable, reasonably priced wines to high-end varietals. “I am especially proud of our collection of biodynamic and sustainable wines from lesser-known boutique producers”, she said.

Commenting on the inclusion of Madison Restaurant on the Star Wine List, Ms Liora Levi, top sommelier professional and Star Wine List’s Ambassador Manager, said that the list offers a diverse selection of wines from all corners of the world. “You can find everything from a lovely Japanese white, through both traditional and untraditional rosés and sparkling to a classic list of both French and Italian reds with lots of exciting not so classical additions from many other places in the world. Nice prices and some truly good buys”, she concluded.

Madison is in the Parichart Court at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel and is open for lunch daily from 12h00 to 14h30 and for dinner Monday through Saturday from 18h00 to 22h30.

• Discover the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com

About Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Corporate Travel Showing Strong Signs of Recovery

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Corporate Travel Showing Strong Signs of Recovery - TRAVELINDEXDelhi, India, April 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Corporate travel is showing strong signs of recovery, according to Madhavan Menon, Managing Director Thomas Cook (India) Group, who was the first speaker in Sabre’s new virtual insights series.

Speaking as part of the Sabre Ascent series, Mr Menon said that for the month of March 2022, Thomas Cook (India) is seeing a domestic corporate travel recovery of around 70% of pre-pandemic levels, with international corporate travel starting to follow the same trajectory.

His comments mirror latest figures released by Sabre in its filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, which providing updated recovery figures for the period of March 1 to 28 compared to the same period in 2019. The Sabre filing said: “While domestic and leisure bookings have continued to lead the recovery, international and corporate bookings have improved at an accelerating rate since January 2022. We expect the March 2022 recovery versus the same period for both international and corporate bookings to be at their highest levels since the pandemic started.”

During the first ever Sabre Ascent session, Mr Menon also told Jaya Kumar K, Vice President and Managing Director, Sabre Bengaluru GCC that he expects technology to play a “far greater role” in corporate travel as business travellers expect increased, targeted information to help them navigate travel in a COVID-19 world as well as a much more personalized approach.

Mr Menon said that Sabre is “leading this crusade of evolving technology in the travel industry, and that is not something which should be underestimated” because his company would not have made so much progress without global distribution technology.

The webinar also addressed the challenges and opportunities brought about by the pandemic as well as the evolution of domestic tourism, new trends in personalization, whether sustainability is top of mind moving through the pandemic, and the evolving demands of travellers in this new age of travel.

Looking back at the pandemic, Mr Menon said: “What was initially seen as a challenge actually turned out to be an opportunity. I don’t think any of us had faced a challenge of this kind, but there was a realization you’re not alone and everybody is facing the same problem. The last two years has given us the opportunity to re-set.”

He said that Thomas Cook (India) had re-sized out of necessity, carried out back-end integration, and upgraded its technology to create a more customer-centric focus. “This journey we are taking at Thomas Cook is moving from telling the customer what he or she should do on his holiday to the point where the customer chooses how he or she wants to go on holiday and how they want to interact with us,” he added. “The experience and access to information should be the same no matter how a customer comes to us.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SUNx Malta 2nd Strong Earth Youth Summit

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SUNx Malta 2nd Strong Earth Youth Summit - TRAVELINDEXValletta, Malta, April 8, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / SUNx Malta will host its second Climate Friendly Travel Youth Summit on 29th April 2022. The ‘Strong Earth Youth Summit’ (SEYS) will feature top Tourism Climate Scientists, a renowned UN grass roots leader and sessions on building resilience to extreme weather events, meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and hitting Paris Agreement 2050 targets. The virtual event is in partnership with the Earth Council International, The European Centre for Peace & Development (ECPD), and Les Roches, International Hospitality School.

  • Celebrating 50 years of UN Climate Leadership
  • Youth Summit for tomorrow’s Climate Friendly Travel leaders
  • Celebrating Maurice Strong, Climate Activist 50 years ago

SEYS will focus on creating awareness of Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) and ways to build a resilient Travel & Tourism future.

Announcing the Youth Summit, Professor Geoffrey Lipman, President of SUNx Malta, said:

“We are going beyond the Glasgow Declaration towards Real Zero GHG 2050, halving emissions by 2030 & building resilience now. Keynotes on the Climate Crisis by renowned Tourism Climate Scientists, Professors Daniel Scott (Canada) & Susan Becken (Australia). Professor Felix Dodds will speak on Climate Realities 50 years after the Stockholm Earth Summit. And there will be interventions from some of our top Climate Friendly Travel Diploma students.”

SEYS will again honour the vision and contribution of the late Maurice Strong, after whom the summit is named. Strong was the architect of the UN Sustainable Development and Climate Framework for half a century, co-founder of the Earth Charter and inspiration for SUNx Malta and its Climate Friendly Travel System.

“SEYS is our annual testimony to the legacy of Maurice Strong, Champion for the planet, bringing a sharp focus on the fact that we are running out of time. We must act now,” says Lipman.

To Register for SEYS please click here

All participants will receive electronic copies of the book “Remembering Maurice F. Strong” courtesy of ECPD and the Earth Charter launched by Strong and Mikhail Gorbachev.

About SUNx Malta
SUNx Malta is a not for profit, EU based, organisation, partnered with the government of Malta that has created a unique, low cost, system to help Travel & Tourism companies and communities transform to the New Climate Economy. The SUNx Malta “Green & Clean, Climate Friendly Travel System” is Action and Education focused – supporting today’s companies and communities to deliver on their proclaimed ambitions and encouraging tomorrow’s young leaders to prepare for rewarding careers across the sector.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu

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European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXChengdu, China, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tivoli Hotels and Resorts, a luxury Portuguese-rooted hospitality brand, has announced an important milestone in its expansion strategy throughout Asia with the opening of Tivoli Chengdu at Cultural Heritage Park.

Developed in partnership with Chengdu Qingyang Urban and Rural Construction Development Company Limited, the 201-room luxury property is located in the International Intangible Cultural Heritage Park, in Chengdu. While holidaymakers will enjoy direct access to the park’s purpose-built exhibition halls showcasing world cultures, business travellers will appreciate the proximity of Chengdu Shuangliu Airport located just 19 kilometres away and the hotel’s state-of-the-art meeting facilities.

Chengdu, a thriving cultural and commercial capital of Sichuan Province, has an established travel industry thanks to its pleasant climate, a bevy of historical attractions, excellent food, and a world-renowned breeding and research base for giant pandas. Opening the doors to these thrilling urban experiences, Tivoli Chengdu will feature a collection of signature Tivoli moments twinned with authentic cultural discoveries.

Designed to resemble a spread-out gilded scroll, the property is nestled into lush, green surroundings. In the soaring lobby, hibiscus pillars and earthenware artworks aim to bring Chengdu’s natural landscapes indoors, while inside the spacious Deluxe Rooms muted tones and luxury furnishings create a deeply relaxing environment. At 75 square metres, the signature Tivoli Rooms provide ample space and a luxurious residential feel enhanced by nature-inspired art, such as the handmade butterfly print over the bed chosen for its symbolism and lucky connotations.

With six dining and lifestyle venues, gastronomy is a major highlight of the Tivoli Chendgu experience. Casa de Fados, the first Portuguese restaurant in Chengdu, will host a European-style Sunday brunch, as well as serving daily seafood-rich Mediterranean meals paired with fine wines on a sunny terrace surrounded by a garden. Another signature venue, Tihong Chinese Restaurant, is designed as a lively family hub where diners can sample dim sum and contemporary Szechuan and Cantonese dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from Chengdu and its environs. The restaurant’s 11 private dining rooms are each named after the prose poems penned by the great Chengdu-born poet, Sima Xiangru.

At the all-day dining CAFÉ 1933, chefs concoct exquisite dishes from around the globe, with a focus on South-east Asian specialties. Lobby Lounge will offer light Western meals and casual dining in vibrant surrounds, with premium teas served at the adjacent antique tea room. Fun DIY bakery sessions and chocolate workshops will be offered as part of the family-friendly Mr Fun Bakery House experience, an extension of the Lobby Lounge. Family picnic sets are also available to enjoy out in the gardens or in Chengdu Cultural Heritage Park. A must at Tivoli Chengdu are sundowners and celebrations at the Sky Bar offering panoramic views over the park and classic Tivoli cocktails.

The property’s 800-square-metre outdoor Kids’ Garden will provide baby-sitting services as well as offering dedicated pet’s bed, pet’s menu, and a spacious play area. Other amenities include a fully-equipped health centre, the renowned Anantara Spa and a soon-to-open swimming pool. With its 2,275-square-metre pillarless banquet hall and heritage-themed coffee breaks, Tivoli Chengdu is perfectly positioned for events of any size and style. The 3,650-square-metre outdoor lawn, in the meantime, is ideal for weddings and social celebrations.

A short walking distance from Tivoli Chengdu is Chengdu Metro Line 4, providing convenient access to local popular attractions such as the Broad and Narrow Alley, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Qingyang Palace, Huanhuaxi Park and Tianfu Square. Nancaoping Ecology Park and the 18-hole Tianfu Golf Club are also within easy reach.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO

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Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO - WEBOFWOMEN.com - TRAVELINDEXSeattle, United States, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Following a nationwide search, Visit Seattle and its Board of Directors announce that Tammy Blount-Canavan, FCDME (Fellow Certified Destination Marketing Executive) will serve as its President and CEO, effective May 9. She will be Visit Seattle’s first female CEO, replacing longtime leader Tom Norwalk, who retired earlier this spring.

Blount-Canavan’s rich leadership history spans two countries and three decades first in the hotel industry in her hometown of Vancouver, BC, to a previous role as President and CEO of the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has strong ties to the Puget Sound area, having served as President and CEO of the Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau from 2008-2012.

“I am thrilled to welcome Tammy Blount-Canavan to Seattle,” said Carla Murray, President, U.S. Western Region Marriott International. “She has made her mark in Vancouver, Tacoma, Monterey and I look forward to working with her again in her new role as leader of Visit Seattle. Her skills and expertise will assist us in growing our business well into the future.”

Most recently, she was EVP, Principal at Fired-Up! Culture, a business management consulting firm focused on leadership and culture development. She is a past-chair of Destinations International, the international trade association for destination marketing organizations. She was recognized as CEO of the Year while in Monterey, one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry, and twice as one of the top 25 Most Influential Women in the industry. She was recognized as Community Leader of the Year, Sustainability Advocate for the California Travel Association, Leading for Positive Impact by the Canadian Impact Conference, and was the 2019 recipient of Destination International’s Global Leadership Award. During her time at Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau, she also worked to establish and was the first chair for the Washington Tourism Alliance, now State of Washington Tourism. Blount-Canavan worked at Tourism Vancouver in senior management for over a decade.

Blount-Canavan says her vision for Visit Seattle is to build on its strong foundation as a dynamic, bold, innovative organization, strengthening relationships and partnerships to elevate Seattle as the nation’s best city to visit, live and do business in.

“I am honored to serve as Visit Seattle’s first female President and CEO,” said Blount-Canavan. “This city has been close to my heart for as long as I can remember. I love Seattle’s beauty, authenticity and culture – the city’s potential is limitless. I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this great city’s leadership.”

Blount-Canavan’s experience in the meetings and conventions space is in high demand as Visit Seattle is poised to make waves in the industry. Following a rebrand, the Washington State Convention Center will become the Seattle Convention Center starting the week of April 18. The $1.9 billion addition, Summit, is under construction and slated to open in January 2023, doubling its capacity.

“I was excited to learn that Tammy Blount-Canavan has been chosen to succeed Tom Norwalk as the new President and CEO,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “Tammy is an experienced and passionate leader who is very familiar with the Seattle region and its many offerings for leisure visitors, meetings and conventions and business travelers.”

She replaces Tom Norwalk, who served as Visit Seattle’s President and CEO for 15 years. Under Norwalk’s leadership, Seattle set all-time records for tourism visitation and spending. He recently oversaw an effort to increase the Seattle Tourism Improvement Area (STIA) assessment, which was passed unanimously by Seattle City Council and signed by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell in March 2022. The increased assessment will allow Visit Seattle to competitively promote leisure travel during a critical recovery phase.

“I am so happy for Tammy, our Visit Seattle team and our incredible city,” said Tom Norwalk, former President & CEO, Visit Seattle. “I have so enjoyed working with Tammy over the years – in forming the Washington Tourism Alliance – or, on the streets of Shanghai representing and promoting our region to key clients and media in China. I have witnessed firsthand, that she knows and loves this city and region.”

“With the announcement of Tammy Blount-Canavan, Visit Seattle is about to continue its well-earned, long-standing reputation as having the cleverest and widely respected CEOs in the DMO world when it comes to working with clients—be they convention decision makers, tour operators, cruise companies, individual visitors or the community itself,” said Rick Antonson, former President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver. “Bravo Seattle.”

Blount-Canavan enjoys walking, hiking, travel and family—along with a good spy novel—during her free time. While she enjoys Seattle’s iconic locations like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, her favorite spot to take people on a clear day is Kerry Park, for its spectacular views of the skyline. Tammy and husband Patrick Canavan are eager to establish their home in Seattle and excited to join the community.

About Visit Seattle
Visit Seattle has served as the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for Seattle and King County for more than 50 years. A 501(c)(6) organization, Visit Seattle enhances the economic prosperity of the region through global destination branding along with competitive programs and campaigns in leisure travel marketing, convention sales and overseas tourism development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JW Marriott Debuts in Guadalajara, Mexico´s Second Largest City

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Hotel Renderings, Courtesy: JW Marriott

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, arrives in Guadalajara with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara, ushering in a new level of luxury and sophistication to the second largest city in Mexico. With meaningful design, exceptional service, and a holistic approach to well-being, the hotel brings the JW Marriott brand’s mindfulness principles to life, allowing guests to be present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit with each stay.

The hotel, managed by Aimbridge Prisma and developed by Grupo Favier, is located in the Guadalajara Country Club area, one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the city, surrounded by service and financial corporations, as well as shopping and entertainment venues. It is near the city’s major tourist attractions including the Historic Center, Hospicio Cabañas – a World Heritage Site – and Pueblos Mágicos (“Magical Towns”) of Tequila and Chapala.

“We are proud to welcome JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara into our growing portfolio of remarkable hotels in Mexico,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Guadalajara is a bustling, dynamic, cultural center of Mexico, one which sees business and leisure travelers from around the world. It is our hope to offer these guests a respite from the outside world, in a modern, luxurious setting for travelers who wish to nourish their mind, body, and spirit at every turn.”

An urban retreat to escape the hustle and bustle, relax and be present, the property offers 191 rooms and suites, including a spectacular Presidential Suite with its own lap pool and panoramic views of the city, offering business or leisure guests a one-of-a-kind experience. The architecture of the hotel was created by the renowned firm of Javier Sordo Madaleno, while the interiors were enlivened by Arquitectura de Interiores – one of the most prestigious interior design firms in the world. Each guest room was designed to evoke a sense of residential comfort, creating the perfect environment to feel inspired.

Guests will enjoy unobstructed views of the city of Guadalajara as well as elevated dining experiences at the property’s various dining outlets including Zibu, created by renowned Chef Eduardo Palazuelos, and offering a unique gastronomic experience that fuses the flavors of Asia and Mexico in a conceptual, architectural, and decorative concept setting. JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara is also home to the JW Executive Lounge serving breakfast and cocktails as well as a wide variety of the region’s star spirit: Tequila at the Agave Bar, while it also features a harmonious space to conduct business meetings.

Featuring a 24/7 fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and amenities, JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara allows guests to keep up with their workout routine while on the road. A beautiful swimming pool with sweeping views of the city is available for a refreshing dip. The hotel´s convenient location and four meeting rooms make it a perfect setting for meetings and events, with spaces that can accommodate up to 110 guests.

ABOUT JW BRAND
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer 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 35 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.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and 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. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Alexandru Otero Tamayo, PR Coordinator, Caribbean & Latin America
Marriott International
Alexandru.Otero@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News