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Kempinski Hotels to Manage Apurva Lombok Resort

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Kempinski Hotels to Manage Apurva Lombok Resort - TRAVELINDEXLombok, Indonesia, March 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Often referred to as Bali’s younger sibling, Lombok is an unspoiled paradise: a laid-back island escape surrounded by some of the most picturesque palm-fringed beaches in Indonesia. Kempinski Hotels has been selected to become one of the first international hotel groups to operate a luxury resort on the island after signing a management agreement with Indonesian developer PT. Teluk Agung Alami to operate The Apurva Kempinski Lombok. The signing follows more than three years’ successful collaboration with the company at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, which opened in February 2019.

Set on 14.3 hectares of spectacular beachfront in a secluded bay on the southwestern coast of the island, The Apurva Kempinski Lombok will be home to 200 suites and villas starting from a generous 65 sq m, placing them among the largest entry-level rooms in Indonesia. A world-class integrated spa and wellness facility will tap into Indonesia’s deep connections with health and healing, while five dining venues will celebrate the archipelago’s rich culinary traditions. An outdoor party lawn and extensive meetings facilities will also make the resort a popular destination for island weddings and events.

“The southern coast of Lombok is an unspoiled paradise, a land before time where lush hillsides and awe-inspiring bays are surrounded by some of the clearest tropical waters in Southeast Asia. We are thrilled to be partnering again with PT. Teluk Agung Alami to open The Apurva Kempinski Lombok, which promises to be one of the most outstanding resorts in Indonesia,” says Bernold Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Group and Chairman of the Management Board of Kempinski AG. “The resort will complement the already successful The Apurva Kempinski Bali, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable island-hopping adventure across two spectacular destinations. This new signing reinforces our position as a steadily expanding hotel management group with outstanding properties and reflects our grand ambitions for the region.”

And William Katuari, owner PT Teluk Agung Alami, commented: “We are very excited about our new project in Lombok, and together with Kempinski, we will put this island on the map for luxury travellers around the globe.”

The Apurva Kempinski Lombok will be part of a wider development that will ultimately be home to up to 10 hotels and resorts on Mekaki Beach, as well as an organic farm, a ranch and an equestrian centre: a mixed-use development that will create an integrated luxury resort destination similar in scope to Nusa Dua in Bali. The development is part of the Indonesian government’s bid to drive tourism growth in four designated areas across Indonesia. Lombok is one of the areas where the government’s efforts will be focused, with plans afoot to extend the runway at Lombok International Airport, upgrade Port Lembar on the west of the island to accommodate luxury yachts and cruise liners and build a new international hospital. March sees the launch of the inaugural MotoGP Indonesia at the recently completed Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit, one of several international events that local authorities hope to attract to the island in the coming years.

The project will span 157 hectares encompassing the entire bay, which stretches across 3.6 kilometres of Mekaki Beach. Behind it, Mekaki Hill is a challenging climb for which hikers will be rewarded with spectacular views of the bay. The Apurva Kempinski Lombok will occupy one of the largest plots at the heart of the development.

Free from crowds and traffic, Lombok is dotted with traditional villages, local markets and emerald rice paddies. The white sand beaches and turquoise waters that surround the island are a haven for surfing, stand-up-paddle boarding, snorkelling and diving, while the verdant interior is crisscrossed with cycling routes and hiking trails. Intrepid visitors might attempt the trek up Mount Rinjani, the highest mountain on Lombok, which passes picturesque waterfalls, restorative hot springs and quiet villages. The island also serves as the jumping off point for the Gili Islands, home to some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world, and for trips to Komodo National Park, the island habitat of endangered Komodo Dragons.

Lombok is easily accessible from Bali via a 30-minute flight or 1.5-hour ferry crossing, while the flight from Jakarta takes just two hours. The Apurva Kempinski Lombok is set to open in 2027.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Appoints Nattinee McMillan as DOSM

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Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Appoints Nattinee McMillan as DOSM - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, March 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX /  Nattinee McMillan, a talented professional with 15 years of hospitality experience in sales, event management and operational roles has been named Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s director of sales and marketing.

The Thai national joins the 30-suite and 70-villa resort, that opened in December on eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline on the Andaman Sea, after working as the director of sales at Dream Phuket Hotel and Spa, another five-star resort on the island, where she also assisted with hotel operations.

She started her hospitality career in 2006 with the banquet department at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, and quickly rose through the ranks to become an event manager, communicating with guests and across hotel departments to bring together weddings and MICE events.

After completing her Master of Business Administration in hospitality and tourism management at Prince of Songkla University 2015, she moved to COMO Point Yamu as the sales and event manager, handling sales enquiries, planning and delivering weddings and undertaking regular evening stints as the manager on duty.

In her role at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, she has implemented a sales and marketing strategy for the resort’s debut, as well as put a team together to achieve sales and growth targets and build brand confidence and business relationships.

“Nattinee is an all-rounder who excels at everything she puts her mind to,” Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s general manager Magdalena Martorell said. “Her proactive leadership style, excellent communication and negotiation skills, and rich experience in Phuket’s luxury hospitality landscape place Nattinee in excellent stead for her new role to propel our resort into 2022 as Thailand reopens up to the world.”

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao recently unveiled a host of facilities including Mediterranean-inspired accommodations, four dining outlets, a five-treatment-room spa, three swimming pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, kids’ club, ballroom and two multi-function rooms. Of the 70 villas with private plunge pools, 15 “wellness villas” feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, fit ball, yoga mat and more.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

 About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and TRYP by Wyndham. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe in 2020, according to the SAM Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market index and it is the Spanish hotel leader in Corporate Reputation (Merco Ranking).

About Phuket Villa Group
Founded in 1989 in Phuket (Thailand), Phuket Villa Corporation, together with its affiliates, has constructed over 7,000 houses and condominium units all over Phuket and Bangkok. As one of the first developers in Phuket to include a wide range of lifestyle facilities within its developments, such as tennis courts and swimming pools, the Group offers detached homes, townhouses and commercial buildings, catering to the growing local real estate market. In addition, the Group also has two hotels under its banner, offering more than 300 rooms to tourists and business travellers, mirroring Phuket’s steady growth as a premier tourist destination of Thailand. Over the years, Phuket Villa Corporation continues to re-invent itself to cater to an increasingly diverse customer base in a more competitive landscape.

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles Le Royal Voted No 1 Hotel in Cambodia

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Raffles Le Royal Voted No 1 Hotel in Cambodia - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, March 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Le Royal has been voted “Best Hotel in Cambodia” by the readers of the prestigious DestinAsian.

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

The historical and iconic hotel, a “must-visit” for many a traveler to Phnom Penh, beat out stiff competition to scoop the award in the magazine’s annual poll.

“Originally opened in 1929, Phnom Penh’s Grande Dame is more inviting than ever thanks to a recent restoration project,” said the editorial. “Parisian-style all-day brasserie Le Phnom 1929 is a new addition to the culinary lineup, while the legendary Elephant Bar remains a popular haunt for afternoon tea and happy-hour cocktails.”

Each of the 175 rooms and suites at Raffles Hotel Le Royal underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. Returning guests will immediately notice lighter and brighter interiors, accentuated by spotlights. Segafredo coffee machines, USB charging stations, and Simmons pillow-top mattresses are among the new features that add modern appeal. Traditionalists will be relieved to hear that the heart and soul of this vintage landmark hotel has been lovingly maintained. The hardwood floors have been polished to a squeak; the ceiling fans still whirl, and the old brass rotary telephones continue to ring.

“We are delighted and honored to receive this vote of confidence after such a challenging period with the pandemic lockdown and a major renovation on our hands,” said the hotel’s new general manager, Dennis de Groot.

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

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Continues Expansion of Luxury Footprint in Saudi Arabia

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Accor Continues Expansion of Luxury Footprint in Saudi Arabia - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com

Madinah, Saudi Arabia, March 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor, group with over 420 hotels across India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, continues to expand its luxury footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the signing of its first Sofitel property in the Holy City of Madinah, scheduled to open in 2023. With plans to revamp and rebrand under the Sofitel marque next year, the hotel will continue to operate under white label while it undergoes a comprehensive renovation to position it at the pinnacle of the luxury market in Madinah. Upon completion of the revitalization works, the hotel will stand out as a beacon of modern luxury and French savoir-faire, blending the brand’s unique sense of joie de vivre with the very best of the locale.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

Partnering with Waqf Sheikh Abdul Bari al-Shawi, represented by the principal of Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, the hotel ownership is part of a joint charitable entity that donates a portion of its annual profit to treat patients in need in Madinah.

“The agreement reinforces and advances the humanitarian message the Waqf stands for. We could not think of a better group to collaborate with than Accor and look forward to a successful partnership in the coming years,” mentioned Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, Principle and representative of the Waqf.

The hotel boasts a landmark location in the centre of Madinah, a short walk from the northern entrance of the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. The property features 469 keys, including the most luxurious suite in Madinah, two- and three-bedroom suites, three dining outlets, an executive lounge, two meeting rooms and a fitness centre with a gym.

“The hotel is another great addition to our luxury portfolio in the Kingdom and the region overall”, says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. “The new Sofitel Madinah is set to become the ultimate choice for travellers, including those partaking in the annual Islamic pilgrimage, that are looking for unparalleled luxurious hospitality while being strategically located, minutes away from key Holy landmarks.”

The signing of this milestone project further strengthens Accor’s already dominant position in the religious markets of Madinah and Makkah, providing guests with an unparalleled and diverse offering when visiting the Holy Cities.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

Accor currently operate 40 properties (14,660 keys) in Saudi Arabia with a pipeline of 42 properties (10,864 keys).

About Accor
Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor’s unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality – one of the fastest growing categories in the industry – is led by Ennismore, a joint venture, which Accor holds a majority shareholding. Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and approximately 260,000 team members worldwide. Members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program – ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Archipelago Announces Opening of New Havana Hotel

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Archipelago Announces Opening of New Havana Hotel - TRAVELINDEX

Havana, Cuba, March 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Archipelago, Southeast Asia’s largest privately owned and independent hotel management group, today announced the expansion of its Cuban portfolio with the opening of the 600 room Grand Aston La Habana Hotel. Rising to the Havana Malecón sky, this urban oasis is ideally located in the bustling Vedado, the capital’s central commercial district, close to offices, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Vedado is much more than a commercial district, it also has an electric nightlife, with clubs like La Zorra y el Cuervo, the Yellow Submarine, and the Cabaret Parisien providing quality entertainment.

Grand Aston La Habana takes modern living to the next level, revealing uniquely designed architecture, fresh rooms, eclectic dining, inspiring event spaces, and beautiful wellness facilities, including the city’s only 24-hour fitness center and an amazing 56-meter long swimming pool overlooking the sparkling waters of Havana Bay. With an innovative design, its interior decoration is a perfect fusion between the Havana style of the 1930s and the Asian refinement of Grand Aston.

For a unique experience of rejuvenation and relaxation, its Wellness Center by Spa Ubud offers exotic Asian healing techniques, the only one in the city offering massages with authentic Balinese techniques. The hotel is also the first in the capital to house a bank branch (BFI).

“We’re delighted to be opening what will become a true icon in the Havana hotel scene. One of the most creatively designed hotels is ready to welcome guests to experience the fusion of Asian and Cuban hospitality in a fantastic location,” said John Flood, President & CEO of Archipelago.

About Archipelago
Southeast Asia’s largest privately owned and independent hotel management group, operates more than 150 hotels, with a further 50 hotels under development across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East. A trusted hotel company with a long track record and more than 30,000 rooms operating or under development in over 60 destinations with brands including ASTON, Collection by ASTON, The Alana, Huxley, Kamuela, Harper, Quest, NEO, favehotels and Nordic.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Six Senses Fiji Reopens April 1 with Bula Welcome

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Six Senses Fiji Reopens April 1 with Bula Welcome - TRAVELINDEX

Malolo Island, Fiji, March 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hosts Look Forward to Providing Trademark “Bula” Warm Welcome. Hosts at Six Senses Fiji, many returning to their previous roles, are ready to welcome guests back to their little corner of paradise from April 1. Their familiar friendly faces will serve as the perfect antidote to months of lockdowns and travel bans as new arrivals step off the speedboat.

Picture-perfect Backdrop for Every Smile
Located on Malolo Island, the largest of the Mamanuca Islands, Six Senses Fiji is surrounded by gently shelving crystal-clear waters accessed from a palm-fringed white sand beach. The re-opening is timely, with the Easter holidays and short breaks on the horizon, as well as prime conditions for surfing and diving starting from April onwards. With pent-up demand at a premium, the resort has been humbled by the reaction and interest to its opening. It is already full for the entire first month and operating on a waitlist-only basis.

Multi-bedroom Residences for Celebrating Special Moments
The past two years have forced many families and groups of friends to miss out on celebrating milestone birthdays, weddings, births, and graduations. The residences, which feature between three and five bedrooms, are designed to bring everyone together. They include a fully equipped kitchen, private living area, expansive private pool, and outdoor seating and entertaining space. Those looking for a self-sufficient vacation will enjoy in-villa dining and sundowners, personal yoga, and eight hours of complimentary babysitting per day. Those seeking the convenience of the resort amenities can choose from the three restaurants, gourmet deli, cooking school, and a host of activities that can be arranged by the dedicated Guest Experience Maker.

Turquoise Playground for Water Babies
From beginners to pros, the resort offers watersports for all skill sets. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming are unlimited (as long as guests return in good time for cocktail hour). Beginners’ surf lessons take place within the safety of the private bay or nearby Swimming Pools wave, and expert surfers can head out to the world-famous Cloudbreak just a 20-minute boat journey away. For those seeking a serene nature immersion, the resort has spent extensive time working on coral replantation. This dedication has paid off, resulting in a beautiful snorkeling experience right off the Six Senses Fiji beach. Fiji is also revered the world over for some of the best dive sites. Introductory sessions can be carried out in the guest’s private pool and there are options to complete the PADI or SSI dive courses at a plethora of sites rich with colorful corals, clownfish, lionfish, reef sharks, and more, all within a 10-minute boat ride.

Sustainable Living and Dining
All residences, villas, and facilities are designed to be 100 percent solar-powered by the largest microgrid in Fiji to use Tesla batteries. Many ingredients for the three restaurants – Tovolea, Rara, and Teitei – as well as the deli, ice creamery, Alchemy Bar, and spa, are grown fresh in the resort’s gardens, which are thriving or sourced from local farmers and fishing communities. The hens at Cluckingham Palace are match-fit to ramp up egg production, and the beehives, Mushroom Hut, and Water Bottling Plant are also in full working order. Guests walking along the winding boardwalk through the trees might catch a glimpse of one of the friendly Fijian Crested Iguanas in their natural habitat.

Pioneering Wellness
Set in lush jungle, Six Senses Spa Fiji is a contemporary take on a traditional Fijian village with a layered approach to wellness and treatments that go beyond the ordinary. The extensive signature menu includes best-loved treatments such as the Fijian Bobo Massage using warm poultices of herbs picked from the spa garden to increase circulation and ease muscle tension. For guests wishing to take a deeper inner focus, one-, three-, five- and seven-night wellness programs focus on specific issues such as brain health, immunity, yoga, sleep, and fitness. Ayurvedic treatments are also available, overseen by Spa Director Deepak.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International to Unveil New Resort in Vietnam

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Meliá Hotels International to Unveil New Resort in Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXHanoi, Vietnam, March 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Spanish group’s reach in Vietnam embraces up-and-coming Quy Nhon destination. Leading global hotel group, Meliá Hotels International, is expanding its footprint in Vietnam with the announcement of a new resort, Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort, set to open on the country’s central coast in 2025.

With a setting that makes the most of both the shoreline and verdant mountainside, Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort will consist of 140 hotel rooms and 93 villas, ranging in size from 1-3 bedrooms and featuring infinity plunge pools that take in sea vistas. The resort will be spread over 12 hectares with an all day dining restaurant; an ocean-view swimming pool and pool bar; a ballroom ideal for weddings, meetings & events; a beach club & restaurant; an expansive spa; and a kid’s club and club house.

“Quy Nhon is one of the most alluring destinations in Vietnam that’s only just now emerging from the shadows of its more well-known oceanfront neighbors in Da Nang and Nha Trang,” said Ignacio Martin, Meliá’s managing director Southeast Asia. “Still relatively untouched, the location boasts the kind of diverse natural landscape, from lush tropical jungle and mangrove forests to pristine beaches, that has long attracted visitors to the country.”

The resort’s location is a short drive from Queens Beach, named for its patron queen and renowned for its golden sand and smooth egg-like rocks. The twin Cham towers, centuries-old relics from the Champa civilization, are a short distance from the property. The area is also well-known for its abundant fresh seafood.

“We plan to highlight the rich array of local seafood and produce by bringing our Spanish influence to it,” said Martin.  “Mediterranean flavors will be infused in our menu items and there will be plenty of opportunities for the Spanish custom of aperitivo with an array of tapas, Spanish wine, cocktails and mocktails.”

In Quy Nhon, Meliá plans to build on a foundation of Spanish heritage and leisure travel that goes all the way back to its establishment in the popular Mediterranean island destination of Palma de Mallorca in 1956. Since then, the hotel group has developed beachfront and city locations around the world in a sustainable manner.

“The wellbeing of guests is considered at every touch point from the small things, like ensuring the mini-bar has organic healthy choices, to larger offerings like hosting yoga and meditation classes,” said Martin. “But it’s not just the wellbeing of our guests we consider carefully. It’s the wellbeing of our planet too. Recycling, avoiding one-time use amenities and plastic bottles are just a few of the things we consider.”

Meliá Hotels International has been named the most sustainable hotel brand in Europe and Spain for the three consecutive years by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, the most comprehensive assessment in the world.

Meliá has partnered with Paradise Joint Stock Company, a local corporation that’s driving several ambitious industrial projects in the region, for the project.

The announcement of Meliá’s partnership with Paradise comes just weeks after the hotel group’s recent news of the incorporation of 12 hotels in Vietnam under the Melia Vinpearl brand. Through these latest agreements, Meliá will become the second largest hotel group in Vietnam by number of rooms – a position they plan to continue to expand on. The company first entered Vietnam more than two decades ago, with the opening of its flagship hotel Meliá Hanoi and currently has extended to 6,652 keys through 24 hotels and resorts, with 8 hotels under operation and 16 more on the way.

Paradise is a well-established local company that boasts expertise in many different fields.

“As a multi-industry economic group, owning many real estate projects, we believe that Paradise working together with Meliá Hotels International for this project is the perfect combination for the success of a leading hospitality project in this unique location in Binh Dinh province,” said Pham Van Thanh, founder of Paradise Joint Stock Company.

Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort will be the group’s fourth beachfront resort in Vietnam under Melia Hotels & Resorts brand, complementing properties in Da Nang, Ho Tram and Nha Trang.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, INNSiDE by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” seal. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe in 2020, according to the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market index and it is the Spanish hotel leader in Corporate Reputation (Merco Ranking). 

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the most well-known brand within Meliá Hotels International; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations and caters to every aspect of guests’ wellbeing. It offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all key business cities and exotic locations, serving the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market.

About Paradise Joint Stock Company
Paradise Joint Stock Company is a company established by Mr. Pham Van Thanh, who is known for owning several other companies in his investment ecosystem: Phu Tai Industrial Park- one of the top 10 largest Industry Park in Central Vietnam, Saigon Quy Nhon Hotel- 4-star standard with 148 rooms. Besides, he also owns Duy Tuan Company and Ngan Thinh Company, which are the leading companies in the wood manufacturing industry in central Vietnam. Along with owning many projects in the central coastal provinces, the group’s new strategy will thrive in the chain of resort and real estate projects in the next 5 years.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Hotels Roars with Record Growth Across Greater China

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Accor Hotels Roars with Record Growth Across Greater China - TRAVELINDEX

Beijing, China, March 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor is advancing through 2022 with a continued focus on expanding its presence across Greater China, offering more hotels to travelers and loyalty members than ever before, from acclaimed brands such as Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, MGallery, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, and ibis. Accor’s new project signings in China reached an all-time high in 2021 – leading to more than 520 hotels now in operation and an additional 350 under development. Accor is also on track to drive even greater momentum and growth success this year.

“Surpassing 500 hotels in Greater China truly is a milestone of which we are extremely proud. This achievement is a result of the powerful connection that Accor’s brands and our dynamic team members have forged over the past 35 years with owners and guests throughout this region,” said Gary Rosen, CEO, Accor Greater China. “We are really excited about our strong momentum in 2022 and beyond. On average, every five days a new Accor-branded hotel is opened in the region to meet the ever-growing demand for high-quality hospitality experiences. Accor provides one of the most diverse brand portfolios in the world, positioning us well to continue introducing more brands, more hotels, and more experiences for leisure and corporate travelers across Greater China.”

China’s emergence as an economic leader has redrawn the lines of global tourism, with China set to overtake the US as the world’s largest economy within the next decade. According to research from Euromonitor International, China is on track to become the world’s #1 global tourism destination by 2030, while continuing to be a world leader in fueling outbound tourism to other countries. Meanwhile, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has hailed China as the world’s #1 domestic tourism market. The WTTC cites China’s 62% absolute growth in domestic tourism since 2008, pushing it up the list from fourth position to the top spot today. This dovetails neatly with the China Tourism Academy’s forecast for 2022, which anticipates a return to nearly 70% of pre-Covid levels of domestic travel this year.

“China is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive economies in the world for hotel development and Accor is proud to lead this important market,” said Agnès Roquefort, Chief Development Officer, Accor. “Accor’s brand portfolio is a key differentiator for the Group and will be a driving force in our success. Close to 40% of our hotels in China are at the luxury and premium level, while we retain a stronghold in the midscale and economy segments. This puts us in an enviable position and combined with our deep local knowledge and the expertise of our regional development and commercial teams, we have a flexible and highly compelling value proposition to offer owners and developers.”

Across Greater China, Accor’s top flagship hotels are well-known and beloved by travelers, including Raffles Shenzhen, Fairmont Peace Hotel, Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an, Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich, DongFengYun Hotel Mi’Le – MGallery, Pullman Shanghai South, and Novotel Guangzhou Airport. Some of the most popular, high-profile openings of 2021 included Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay, Sofitel Hangzhou Yingguan Hotel, Pullman Jiaxing Pinghu Excellence Hotel, Ocean Spring Resort Chengdu – MGallery, Novotel Zhengzhou Airport Hotel and Grand Mercure Pingxiang Kaiguang Hotel.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2022, The Year of the Tiger will bring some highly-anticipated new flagship hotels to life, such as Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Fairmont Xiamen, and Sofitel Shanghai North Bund. This year will also see the grand return of the beloved landmark, Swissôtel Beijing, following three years of extensive renovations and restyling.

Accor’s newest luxury brand, Emblems Collection, will open its first hotel in the world in December 2022 – a magnificent flagship hotel, Guiyang Art Centre Hotel, Emblems Collection, in Guizhou province. The new brand has a goal to create a unique global portfolio exceeding 60 boutique hotels and luxurious resorts by 2030, which will certainly include additional properties in China.

MGallery Hotel Collection is a brand to watch – with not one, but two – hotels opening in Hong Kong this year. The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery creates a serene retreat on Lantau Island, while AKI Hong Kong – MGallery complements the neighborhood buzz of Wan Chai with a stylish energy. Upcoming MGallery destinations include Shenzhen’s vibrant Dalang District; Wuxi Dangkou Ancient Town; as well as Guangzhou.

One of China’s top performing premium brands, Pullman, has multiple new properties slated to open in 2022, including Pullman Nanchang Xinlv, Pullman Shenzhen North Station, Pullman Chongqing Beibei, and Pullman Wuhan Airport New City. These are in addition to Pullman Dali, Pullman Haikou and Pullman Suzhou Taicang which have been open since January 2022. Greater China has more Pullman Hotels & Resorts than any other country in the world, with nearly fifty hotels in operation, a record number of new project signings, and no signs of slowing.

The power of Accor’s midscale and economy brands is also noteworthy. Novotel, a longtime favorite amongst travelers, continues to push forward with innovative new design concepts and exciting openings like Novotel Guangzhou Airport and Novotel Chengdu Tianfu Living, both set to open in 2022. Other upcoming destinations for the beloved brand include Novotel Wuxi Wanshan Lake, Novotel Xi’an Aden, and Novotel Qingdao Downtown. Not to be outdone, one of Accor’s top midscale brands, Mercure, has been singled out as one of the fastest growing brands in the world, according to a past ranking from Brand Finance. Mercure currently has more than 110 hotels in Greater China, and nearly 100 more in development. Additionally, Accor’s trailblazing economy brand, ibis, now offers more than 200 hotels in Greater China, a truly remarkable achievement.

“Accor was founded on the premise of building innovative brands and boldly expanding them throughout the world,” added Mr. Rosen. “As we progress through 2022, all of us at Accor look forward to sharing even more exciting news about our growing portfolio in Greater China and around the world, as we embrace each opportunity with the strength, confidence and adventurous spirit that the Year of the Tiger inspires.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dufry Extends Duty-Free Concession at Bali International Airport

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Dufry Extends Duty-Free Concession at Bali International Airport - TRAVELINDEX

Basel, Switzerland, March 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Dufry, leading global travel retailer, has successfully extended its duty-free concession at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport for another six years, which in 2019 welcomed 14 million travelers, and where Dufry has been operating since 2013. The new six-year contract also includes an increase in retail space of over 1,400 m2, thus extending the total sales area to over 3,600 m2, which will allow for the introduction of fashion and accessories as new categories.

The newly extended concession contract includes duty-free shops in both the international departure and arrival areas. The shops, mainly conceived as walk-through concepts, offer a wide assortment of the core duty-free categories such as perfume & cosmetics alongside liquor, tobacco and confectionery, providing travelers with a distinctive sense of place. In addition, travelers will also be able to enjoy a comprehensive offer of globally renowned fashion and accessory brands presented in twenty dedicated shops, allowing for an attractive positioning of luxury and premium labels. The fashion and accessories offer will be complemented by the dedicated House of Sarinah concept store featuring the best of Indonesian-made and internationally available iconic products from all over the country. Customers will thus benefit from a unique selection of fashion and accessories made possible through Dufry’s partnership with PT Sarinah (Persero) and their knowhow on local Indonesian labels.

Commenting on the new contract, Pedro Castro, Chief Operating Officer Asia-Pacific, said: “We are very proud to have been awarded the extension of this important Asian tourist destination, which attracts travelers from all over the world. We will honor the renewed trust from our partners of Angkasa Pura I and foster the longstanding relationship, by providing visitors of Bali International Airport with a further enhanced shopping experience meeting highest international standards and featuring a considerably extended product assortment.”

Aidhil Julian, Co General Manager Commercial I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport – Bali, added: “We are glad to have this opportunity to extend our partnership with Dufry. With the reputation of Bali Airport, who has earned top ten spots of safest airports in Southeast Asia for Covid-19 health and safety measures in 2021 according to Safe Travel Barometer, we are ready to combine the uniqueness of Bali with global expertise to captivate our passenger’s interest and leave them with the unforgettable shopping experience.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Iconic Sea Ranch Lodge Now Reopen Following Extensive Renovation

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Iconic Sea Ranch Lodge Now Reopen Following Extensive Renovation - TRAVELINDEX

The Sea Ranch, California, United States, March 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sea Ranch Lodge reopened to the public in October 2021 following an extensive revitalization project that breathes new energy into the iconic property while preserving the original architecture and integrity. The remodel features architectural design by Mithun, landscape architecture by TERREMOTO, interior design by The Office of Charles de Lisle and construction by David Hillmer.

“With the restoration and reopening of The Sea Ranch Lodge, we are excited to honor the vision of the original developer and original group of architects including Al Boeke, Lawrence Halprin, and MLTW (Charles Moore, Donlyn Lyndon, William Turnbull and Richard Whitaker)—stewardship and respect of the land, sustainability for The Sea Ranch and creating a gathering place for all Sea Ranchers,” said Kristina Jetton, general manager of The Sea Ranch Lodge. “As we continue to fulfill their original masterplan, we will always design and host experiences here that live in harmony with the natural elements that make The Sea Ranch so special. We look forward to welcoming Sea Ranchers, locals, visitors and the next generation of creators to dine at our new restaurant, walk the trails, enjoy a memorable event in the meadow, or simply come by and be inspired by this magical coastal setting.”

Set on 53 acres of spectacular Northern California coastline in Sonoma County, the iconic Sea Ranch Lodge was designed to respond to—and live in harmony with—the natural elements. The Sea Ranch Lodge includes a dining room, bar and lounge, café, general store, post office and extensive open space with views of the Pacific. Located 100 miles north of San Francisco along Highway 1, the Lodge exists within the greater 7,000-acre Sea Ranch community which consists of 2,200 private homes clustered at intervals marked by cypress hedgerows, undeveloped lots, sprawling meadows, rolling hills, redwood and Douglas fir forests, nature trails and ocean views across 10 miles of the Pacific’s coastal shelf.

Design Perspectives: History, Inspiration And Renewal

The architectural renovation of the Lodge was inspired by the original Sea Ranch architecture and the landscape behind its vision: the wind-shaped coastline and traditional barns. Lawrence Halprin, lead designer of the Sea Ranch master plan, directed architects to “focus on how to inhabit the land and protect the awesome character without softening it or altering it.” The Sea Ranch Design Guidelines put it this way: “This is not a place for the grand architectural statement; it is a place to explore the subtle nuances of fitting in—blending buildings into the existing environmental setting and the historical context.”

With those lessons in mind, Mithun’s goal with the Lodge was to simplify and clarify the original structure to focus the experience on the natural setting and exceptional views. We started with the removal of previous remodels, which had compromised the original building. We then continued to remove walls and partitions that had subdivided spaces, separating them from light and views. Spaces were opened and recombined to create a simpler plan with better connection to the exterior. Respect for the history of the building was fundamental to the design. Any required new elements were constructed in the simple agricultural language of the original with similar basic materials and details.

The Lodge experience was updated and expanded with the addition of a café to replace the previous reception/office area, integration of the solarium space into the lounge, and a new open layout for the kitchen which has also improved the dining room. The original building had followed the slope of the site, resulting in four slightly different levels at the main floor. These have been simplified to allow disabled access to all public spaces. Occupant comfort and building performance has also been improved with insulated windows, integrated sun shading, improved lighting, and a sound-absorptive ceiling in the lounge and dining rooms. The public spaces are oriented toward the true amenity of the Sea Ranch Lodge: a meadow rolling gently toward the Pacific Ocean.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News