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Embracing Change at Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary

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Embracing Change at Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, January 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / January is a time to start fresh and set new intentions, and with 2022 well and truly underway, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa Retreat on Koh Samui the perfect place to work on positive change – any time of year.

The wellness programmes at Kamalaya offer solutions to many of life’s challenges. As one of the most popular programmes at Kamalaya Koh Samui, Embracing Change which is ideal for anyone who wishes to simultaneously pursue wellness and a better future.

Embracing Change focuses on enriching emotional wellbeing and addressing life circumstances. Suitable for anyone seeking support with challenging situations of any kind, this programme can target behaviours such as emotionally driven eating habits, relationship issues including loss or break-ups, work-related difficulties, anxiety, and grief, whether pandemic related or due to regular life events.

With five and seven-night programme options available, guests learn to recognize and understand their habits to release, heal, rebuild, and strengthen emotional patterns before learning how to sustain a personal practice and establish healthier levels of balance.

Embracing Change is a gentle inward journey of discovery in order to embrace who you are, what makes you uniquely you, and in doing so break free of old habits and perceptions. Guests experience nurturing spa sessions, healing massages, Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, ancient Ayurvedic practices, and sessions with Kamalaya’s trained Life Enhancement Mentors to help guests through their change processes and encourage positive growth.

All guests at Kamalaya Koh Samui begin their stay at the multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary with a Body Bio-impedance Analysis (BIA) and at the end of their programme, complete an exit and review.

Located on the south tip of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, Kamalaya combines the very best of healing therapies from East and West, and is one of the world’s top destinations for nurturing health and wellbeing, pursuing self-development, developing healthier, happier habits, and improving lifestyles.

With expansive outdoor space, open-air dining, lush tropical vegetation, cascading streams, 250 meters of private beach and a cave once used by Buddhist monks as a place of meditative retreat, Kamalaya’s nature and setting is an integral part of the experience.

Integrating the beauty of the surrounding natural environment into its design, the Wellness Sanctuary features open air treatment spaces as well as deluxe air-conditioned suites. There are over 50 certified wellness professionals at Kamalaya, including naturopaths, doctors of Chinese medicine, western medical doctors, registered nurses, nutritionists, life transformation experts, Ayurvedic and Thai therapists, fitness specialists and yoga, meditation and pranayama teachers.

Like a self-contained village, Kamalaya has a range of facilities for guest use including two fitness centres fully equipped with weight and fitness training equipment as well as cardio machines. Personal sessions in strength training, functional resistance training, reformer Pilates and other exercise modalities are available. Kamalaya boasts two swimming pools with sea views, including a leisure pool to relax in and a 25m lap pool for training. Complimentary group holistic activities are offered, these daily activities include yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, pranayama, meditation, fit ball and beach power walks.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Provides an Update on Development Progress in 2021 and Overview of Key Trends Currently Shaping Hospitality Development

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On the eve of the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) in Los Angeles, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) announces a strong year of rooms growth and signings in 2021. The company also provides insight into major trends it sees currently impacting global hospitality development. These trends helped drive Marriott’s growth in 2021 and are expected to propel the company’s growth over the next several years.

At the end of 2021, Marriott’s worldwide system consisted of nearly 8,000 properties and roughly 1.48 million rooms in 139 countries and territories. At year-end, the company had the largest global development pipeline, with roughly 485,000 rooms. The company signed 599 agreements during 2021 representing approximately 92,000 rooms of which slightly more than half are located outside of U.S. and Canada. Rooms falling out of the pipeline remain at historically low levels, despite challenges brought on by the pandemic. During 2021, Marriott added more than 86,000 rooms on a gross basis, growing the system 3.9 percent, including deletions of 2.1 percent. The deletion rate was 1.2 percent excluding the exit of 88 Service Properties Trust select service hotels.

“Marriott has the benefit of sitting at the intersection of information and insights from a global community of developers, properties, owners and franchisees, as well as the more than 160 million members of our Marriott Bonvoy travel program,” said Stephanie Linnartz, President, Marriott International. “Our analysis of the prevalent trends in global development is particularly instructive as we continue to recover from this global pandemic. We have been focused on working closely with our valued community of owners and franchisees throughout these unprecedented times. We are pleased with our strong 2021 development results and look forward to continuing to drive value for our owners and franchisees throughout the recovery and beyond with our quality brands, our comprehensive business support systems and industry leading loyalty platform.”

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Christopher Cypert

Luxury Maintains its Momentum

Travelers crave leisure luxury travel experiences seeking iconic destinations and undiscovered locations. Marriott is poised to meet this demand with its unmatched portfolio of seven dynamic luxury brands across 476 hotels spanning 69 countries and territories. In 2021, Marriott International signed 40 luxury hotel deals, representing over 6,000 rooms, and grew its portfolio of luxury hotel rooms by 4.8 percent net, with notable additions in prime locations around the globe including Philadelphia (W Hotels), Nashville (W Hotels), Charlotte (JW Marriott), Bermuda (St. Regis), Paris (Bulgari), Rome (W Hotels), Maldives (The Ritz-Carlton), Budapest (The Luxury Collection) and Reykjavik (EDITION). The company continues to expand its luxury footprint and has by far the largest global pipeline of hotels in this important, high fee earning segment, with nearly 50,000 rooms. Marriott anticipates debuting more than 30 luxury hotels in 2022 in destinations from Mexico (The St. Regis Kanai Resort) and Portugal (W Algarve) to Australia (The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne) and South Korea (JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa). Marriott’s industry leading luxury portfolio adds to the power of Marriott Bonvoy, giving members a tremendous choice of experiences around the globe.

The Leisure Boom Continues Booming

Leisure demand has led the travel recovery, a trend that is expected to continue into 2022, as travelers continue to embrace multi-purpose trips, mixing remote work and vacation time. Leisure transient global room nights were the first to recover to 2019 pre-pandemic levels in the second quarter of 2021. For some time prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, leisure travel had been growing at a faster pace than business travel, and according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), all signs point to a continuation of the trend. Marriott’s industry leading resort network includes over 600 properties in beach, mountain and desert locations around the world that have seen incredibly high demand and have demonstrated impressive average daily rates.

All-Inclusive is All-Growth

Consumer interest in the very high growth all-inclusive resort segment continues to increase. Marriott intends to capitalize on its strong recent momentum in this area, leveraging its proven brands to drive additional growth in this important segment. Currently, Marriott International’s all-inclusive portfolio spans 28 properties, representing over 8,000 rooms in locations across the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. In 2021, Marriott International signed 22 agreements for all-inclusive resorts, marking a company record, including 20 all-inclusive resorts under its Autograph Collection Hotels brand and the first Marriott branded all-inclusive resort agreement in North Africa.

“Marriott’s all-inclusive platform is energizing the segment and providing Marriott Bonvoy members, owners and franchisees access to our strong brands,” said Carlton Ervin, Global Development Officer, International, Marriott International. “While our initial all-inclusive growth has been focused in the Caribbean and Latin America, we see tremendous opportunity to expand our all-inclusive platform into additional markets, including the Mediterranean and the Middle East.”

Extended Stay’s Popularity Extends Further

The extended stay segment has always been attractive to leisure travelers and has become even more popular with the increase in remote work and the blending of business and leisure travel. Marriott International is the leader in the extended stay segment, setting the bar with the introduction of its Residence Inn brand almost 40 years ago. In 2021, extended stay accounted for 37 percent of the company’s rooms signings in U.S. and Canada. Marriott Bonvoy’s extended stay brands – Element Hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott and TownePlace Suites by Marriott – include more than 1,400 hotels, offering stays from a few nights to a few weeks. Notable expected openings in 2022 include Element City Center Doha, Residence Inn by Marriott The Hague City Center and TownePlace Suites Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach.

With growing consumer demand, Marriott’s extended stay portfolio offers modern design, signature programming​, new food and beverage offerings​, a flexible room mix for leisure and business​ travel and a proven operating model. At ALIS, Marriott will be showcasing Element Hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott and TownePlace Suites by Marriott through its “Longer Stay Lounge,” a space where investors, owners and operators can experience the latest in brand programming and designs while networking. The Longer Stay Lounge will present immersive brand vignettes that will allow visitors to learn about and experience each of the company’s longer stay brands.

“The extended stay segment has been extremely resilient over the past few years and guest and owner demand continues to grow, driven in some measure by the rise in multi-purpose travel,” said Noah Silverman, Global Development Officer, U.S. & Canada, Marriott International. “We are excited for continued momentum around extended stay and to use our presence at ALIS to communicate the strength and possibilities of Marriott’s longer stay category and the impressive value it brings to owners.”

Conversions Transform Across the Portfolio

Conversions are an important driver of rooms growth in any year, but they have been particularly meaningful during more disruptive times. Marriott provides a rich and flexible conversion platform with significant revenue synergies, cost saving opportunities and turnkey access to many of the programs and services that the company provides, including the company’s powerful Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Marriott added more than 18,000 conversion rooms in 2021, accounting for 21 percent of overall openings. In addition, conversions accounted for 27 percent of rooms signings in 2021. Interest in conversions into Marriott brands remains high, led by the company’s robust portfolio of collection brands, including Autograph Collection Hotels, The Luxury Collection, and in particular the Tribute Portfolio, which has grown its footprint of open and pipeline hotels by nearly four times in the past five years. In addition, Delta Hotels by Marriott, the company’s flexible full-service conversion brand represented 9 percent of signed conversion deals in 2021. Notable expected conversion additions in 2022 include the JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo in Brazil, The Brix, Autograph Collection in Trinidad and Tobago, The Serangoon House, Singapore, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel and a Delta Hotels by Marriott City Center Doha in Qatar.

Strong International Growth Poised to Continue

Growth in Valuable International Markets

In 2021, the company signed 256 agreements representing nearly 51,000 rooms in international locations outside the U.S. and Canada. With the company rapidly growing its international footprint, Marriott continues to enter new markets, offering travelers more exciting destinations. In 2021, the company expanded into Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Bermuda, Grenada, St. Lucia and Turks & Caicos. In 2022, the company expects to plant its flag in Albania and Honduras.

Select Service Shines Around the World

Development activity for well-established brands within the select service space remains another key driver of growth, especially internationally. Comprised of brands including Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, Aloft Hotels and Moxy Hotels, Marriott International’s select brands are increasingly resonating internationally. In 2021, the company opened 107 select service hotels representing nearly 19,000 rooms in 29 countries across its international regions. In China, select brands further expand consumer travel experiences and choices, bringing guests diversified experiences in emerging Chinese destinations. Notable expected openings in 2022 include Element Yangjiang Hailing Island and Moxy Suzhou City Center. In 2021, Fairfield by Marriott continued to make its mark in Japan with the “Michi-no-eki” project, bringing six more hotels to key locations across four prefectures in Japan. The company also launched its new Fairfield prototype in Europe and the Middle East.

Branded Residential Soars

Marriott’s branded residential business soared in 2021 as evolving lifestyle changes have sparked growing interest in on-demand amenities and services from brands people admire and trust. Marriott continues to lead the branded residential segment with nearly 190 projects open or in development worldwide across 14 of the company’s brands. Marriott’s branded residential offerings include a standalone residence model with similar elevated services offered at the company’s hotel properties, but without a co-located hotel, which speaks to the power of Marriott’s brands to attract residential buyers in markets around the globe. In 2021, Marriott signed its first standalone residences for the EDITION brand in Miami and for the Autograph Collection Hotels brand in London. The company currently operates 14 standalone residences with 16 in the pipeline. Overall, the branded residential sector continues to grow rapidly internationally, with nearly 80 percent of Marriott’s upcoming projects located outside of the U.S. and Canada. The company expects to debut 14 residential projects in 2022 in destinations from New York City (The Ritz-Carlton Residences, New York, NoMad) and Algarve (W Residences Algarve) to Belgrade (The Residences at The St. Regis Belgrade).

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 rooms growth; our growth pipeline; future expansion; expected hotel and other project openings; brand debuts in certain markets; development focus areas and intentions; consumer demand trends and expectations; owner interest in certain brands and offering types; 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 those we identify below and other risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Annual Report on Form 10-K. Risks that could affect forward-looking statements in this press release include the duration and scope of COVID-19, including the availability and distribution of effective vaccines or treatments; the pandemic’s short and longer-term impact on the demand for travel, transient and group business, and levels of consumer confidence; actions governments, businesses and individuals have taken or may take in response to the pandemic, including limiting, banning, or cautioning against travel and/or in-person gatherings or imposing occupancy or other restrictions on lodging or other facilities; the impact of the pandemic and actions taken in response to the pandemic on global and regional economies, travel, and economic activity, including the duration and magnitude of the pandemic’s impact on unemployment rates and consumer discretionary spending; the ability of our owners and franchisees to successfully navigate the impacts of COVID-19; the pace of recovery when the pandemic subsides and any dislocations in recovery as a result of resurgences of the pandemic; general economic uncertainty in key global markets and a worsening of global economic conditions or low levels of economic growth; the effects of steps we and our property owners and franchisees have taken and may continue to take to reduce operating costs and/or enhance certain health and cleanliness protocols at our hotels; the impacts of our employee furloughs and reduced work week schedules, our voluntary transition program and our other restructuring activities; competitive conditions in the lodging industry and in the labor market; relationships with customers and property owners; and the availability of capital to finance hotel growth and refurbishment. 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 Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact
Elynsey Price
Marriott International
Elynsey.Price@marriott.com

IRPR#1

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge to Reopen in June

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andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge to Reopen in June - TRAVELINDEXSerengeti National Park, Tanzania, January 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Originally built in the 1990s as a tented camp, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti will reopen in June 2022 as a stunning luxury lodge. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge is located in the remote western reaches of the Serengeti. Due to its far-flung location, there are very few lodges in this pristine section of the park, which means that guests can expect the ultimate in exclusivity.

• Discover the World’s Best Safari Lodges and Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Wildlife Awards at Top25Hotels.com

The lodge is perfectly situated on the banks of a tributary of the Grumeti River. Using the natural bow shape of the river, and paying homage to the circular forms of a traditional Masai manyatta, the lodge unfolds to reveal an understated sense of luxury.

Walking into the guest area upon arrival is a real wow moment. Spacious decks are perfect for enjoying sundowners overlooking the river and the camp’s rim-flow swimming pool provides a view of the seasonal hippo pools below. The proximity to water draws a profusion of wildlife throughout the day and night.

Each of its 10 suites feature deep-soaking tubs and outdoor decks with private plunge pools overlooking the Serengeti, though canvas, banana fiber and hardwood textures pay homage to their former tented incarnations. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge boasts a state-of-the-art gym and an infinity pool overlooking a wildlife-filled watering hole. But don’t be fooled by its ultraluxurious facade: sustainability is central to this resort, which will run on 80% renewable energy.

Touching the earth lightly and seemingly floating across the landscape, 10 nostalgically elegant, and very spacious, guest suites offer natural light, an enormous bed, bath, an indoor shower (with a spectacular view), and sparkling private plunge pool. A new family suite has been incorporated featuring a small additional bedroom attached.

Adorned with Kitenge fabrics and accentuated with stone walls, the lodge also features the vibrant colours of the fishing communities surrounding Lake Victoria and the grey tones representative of hippo hide that have been beautifully woven into deeply comfortable furnishings and bespoke, hand-made fittings.

For a complete cuisine immersion, expect menus that are uncomplicated, easy to eat, fresh, healthy and wholesome. The traditional boma will still be the hero of night-time dining and artisanal pizzas as well as salt-crusted, whole baked fish, which pays homage to the region’s great lakes, will also be served in this unique space. Of course, the lodge’s well-known breakfast trays, with fresh juices and house baked bread are absolutely not to be missed. An interactive kitchen creates a space for guests to work alongside chefs and plan their menus for the day. Enjoy convivial afternoons and evenings around the central circular bar; a masterpiece of woven fabrics and dramatic glass ball light installations.

For those looking for an active workout, head to the gym. However, if you feel like a pamper session, surrender to an in-room massage.

• Discover the World’s Best Safari Lodges and Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Wildlife Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Twice-daily game drives from the lodge often encounter large lion prides and clans of hyena, big herds of resident plains game as well as the special black-and-white colobus monkeys, found nowhere else in the Serengeti. Rarely seeing other vehicles makes for an exceptional game viewing experience.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels and Resorts Launched Cross Collection

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Cross Hotels and Resorts Launched Cross Collection - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Striding into the new year, Cross Hotels & Resorts, Asia-Pacific’s leading creator of inspired hospitality solutions, is pleased to announce it has reached a major milestone with the launch of Cross Collection, a blend of stylish resorts and city hotels in first-tier tourist and business destinations. An amalgamation of unique properties throughout Asia Pacific, Cross Collection is a hospitality network for all.

The freshly inked deals mark the beginning of a new chapter for Cross Hotels & Resorts as it continues to add to its impressive portfolio of boutique properties with Haven’t Met Bangkok Silom and Itz Time Hua Hin Pool Villa. Haven’t Met Bangkok By Cross Collection is located in the central business district and offers 72 contemporary guest rooms, a rooftop swimming pool and access to the Skytrain via Chong NonSi BTS Station, which makes it a compelling choice for the new generation of travellers who seek excitement, convenience and value for money.

Meanwhile, Itz Time Hua Hin Pool Villa By Cross Collection is a stunning residential-style resort in the coastal town of Hua Hin that features 16 three-bedroom Pool Villas ranging in size from 279–440sqm, making them the perfect choice for private weekday staycations or weekend family getaways. Appealing to Cross Hotels & Resorts’ aficionados of young, independent travellers and ideal for corporate events, the resort offers the ultimate escape in exceptionally appointed villas.

Commenting on the thrilling developments, Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts, said: “Cross Collection is our white-label branding solution for independent hotels and I’m proud to welcome Sincere Capital Land Co., Ltd to our family. It’s our entrepreneurial approach that allows us to push traditional hospitality boundaries and offer partners very workable solutions that elevate their businesses to a higher level. We give owners the opportunity to belong to a strong, international brand with a global distribution network that’s continually growing. I’m confident the future is going to be a bright one for our partners, so watch this space!”

Building on Cross Hotels & Resorts’ Uniquely Yours approach, the new properties share the same corporate vision of providing guests with unforgettable experiences through their passion for hospitality. This hunger to go the extra mile is fundamental to the success of Cross Hotels & Resorts as the company is relentlessly committed to excellence.

“We have complete trust and confidence in Cross Hotels & Resorts, in its brands and in the global distribution, which is backed by Flight Centre Travel Group. We are honoured to become part of Cross Collection as we have our own story to tell and we want to bring it to life. With Cross Collection we can be us,” said Chayaphon Hunrungroj, Owner of Sincere Capital Land Co., Ltd.

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes more than 23 hotels under five distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen and Cross Collection – across Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Azerai Can Tho Launches Private Pool Villas

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Azerai Can Tho Launches Private Pool Villas - TRAVELINDEXCan Tho, Vietnam, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As travelers around the world look to turn the page on the pandemic, one thing is becoming increasingly clear – space is now the ultimate luxury.

With this in mind, Azerai Can Tho has launched one- and two-bedroom private pool villas to complement the resort’s existing three-, four- and five-bedroom villas, offering exclusive and private new accommodation options for groups of all sizes, from couples to extended families.

“These one- and two-bedroom private pool villas open the door to a whole new class of traveler seeking an enhanced sense of seclusion and exclusivity,” said General Manager Nicolas Pillet.

The resort’s villas range from 636sqm (Pool Villas) to 784sqm (River Pool Villa) to an expansive 1,583 sqm (Mekong Pool Villa), offering guests abundant privacy along with other unique benefits, such as dedicated villa hosts who can help to personalize the experience.

And, of course, villa guests have access to all of the resort’s other world-class amenities and culinary offerings, in addition to private luxury boat cruises in the Mekong Delta, lavish picnics under the resort’s mature banyan trees and other local excursions and activities.

Three hours by car from Ho Chi Minh City, Azerai Can Tho is situated on a private islet in the Mekong Delta that’s accessible only by boat. The resort’s lush grounds cover more than eight hectares and support 60 rooms in addition to the five private pool villas that deliver residential-style accommodation.

Designed by French-Canadian architect Pascal Trahan, the villas at Azerai Can Tho embrace the resort’s tropical surroundings, with sliding-glass doors in most rooms able to open up significantly to draw in outdoor breezes.

The interiors feature a blend of stone, slate, light-coloured woods and rattan accents, with pitched ceilings that expand an overall sense of spaciousness. The locally sourced woods and stones were sourced in Vietnam by a Scandinavian design firm. The overarching aesthetic is sleek and minimalist.

The design signature in the pool villas is similar to that of Azerai Can Tho’s other guest rooms, featuring an understated elegance that is both practical and comfortable. Furniture and décor embrace neutral colour tones, and the exteriors have been designed to blend harmoniously with the tropical island setting.

Azerai Can Tho was named one of the “Top 25 Resorts in Asia” (No. 13) in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards earlier this year, becoming one of only six properties in Vietnam to make the popular annual “best-of” list. The awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

ABOUT AZERAI
Azerai is a new story and brand of resorts offering guests simple elegance, refined design and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of the Persian word caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

Azerai Can Tho is a peaceful retreat set on a lush islet in the Mekong Delta. Azerai Ke Ga Bay marks the brand’s first oceanfront resort. And Azerai La Residence, Hue is a historic city resort overlooking the Perfume River in Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening

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Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a wellness-inspired resort that fronts Phuket’s longest stretch of sand with a chilled-out beach club and private pool villas has opened on Thailand’s largest island.

The resort is the second five-star property to be launched in Thailand under Spanish hotel group Meliá Hotels International as part of a brand roll-out in key destinations across the Kingdom.

Situated on secluded Mai Khao beach, commanding eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline on the Andaman Sea, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao opened its doors for business on December 1.

The 30-suite and 70-villa resort, owned by residential real estate developer Phuket Villa Group, is a 15-minute drive to Phuket International Airport and near an array of attractions including Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Sirinat National Park, and Wat Phra Thong temple.

The resort’s design melds traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics with a smattering of Mediterranean accents and uses a neutral palette of colours to complement Mai Khao’s sandy shoreline. High ceilings and decorative metal screens make the most of the natural surrounds and sunny, tropical weather.

GUEST SUITES AND VILLAS

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s contemporary, light-filled and spacious Mediterranean-inspired accommodations – with a focus on simple, clean lines and indoor-outdoor living – comprise 30 one-bedroom suites and 70 one-bedroom villas.

The resort has three accommodation categories. Each features a single bedroom and is differentiated by an anchoring amenity — be it an outdoor bathtub, a private plunge pool or a wellness arrangement.

All of the suites and villas feature outdoor bathtubs, open-air showers and outdoor terraces to take advantage of Phuket’s tropical climate, which averages 28 degrees Celsius year round. Exquisite gardens and fixtures such as white stucco exterior walls also ensure secluded enclaves and the utmost privacy.

The 78sqm suites are complemented by cabanas and the 85sqm one-bedroom villas have private plunge pools.

At the top of the accommodation scale, the 15 wellness villas each feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, Tempur-Pedic pillows, aromatic salts for the outdoor bathtub, a fit ball and yoga mat. A highlight of staying at a wellness villa is a daily 60-minute massage.

Mod-cons in all of the accommodations include individually controlled air-conditioning, 43-inch LCD TV with satellite channels, Bluetooth speaker, Nespresso coffee maker and gourmet capsules and more.

The minibar has healthy snacks such as energy bars on request. Trays and tissue boxes made from banana leaves are among sustainable items in the suites and villas.

DINING

The resort’s diverse dining landscape comprises four outlets under the stewardship of culinary director Luca Mancini and adds a dash of Mediterranean flavor to Phuket’s culinary scene.

Adjacent to a beach pool framed with cabanas and sun lounges, the Gaia Beach Club celebrates Spain’s famed gastronomy by serving Mediterranean and fusion cuisine from an open kitchen and a creative cocktail selection from a long bar.

A warm and intimate setting adorned with timber finishes, SASA is an elegant all-day dining restaurant that specialises in international and Thai cuisine. SASA offers a healthy, freshly made breakfast and delectable Thai set lunches and dinners.

The Elyxr Café features a spacious lounge area with comfortable sofas and a selection of books and serves coffee and tea.

The Pool Bar is a swim-up affair at the centre of the resort that serves a range of refreshments including fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails.

SPA, WELLNESS AND RECREATION

Privately tucked away behind the lobby and Elyxr Café, Meliá’s signature YHI Spa is 300sqm and home to five treatment rooms. In addition to its extensive menu of massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, spa therapists also provide poolside and in-villa treatments.

The resort will offer wellness packages that include healthy menus and freshly squeezed juices as well as activities such as meditation, yoga, and walks and cycling amid stunning natural scenery.

The fitness center is equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and weights machines. The kids club Kidsdom has workshops to keep youngsters entertained and the resort also provides a babysitting service. Recreational pursuits on offer range from horse riding on the beach, to scuba diving at Racha Yai, Koh Dok Mai, Phi Phi Island and Shark Point, to golf at the nearby Blue Canyon Country Club.

MICE FACILITIES

The resort’s conference facilities include a grand ballroom and two additional multi-function rooms at 231sqm. The Grand Ballroom totals 131sqm and caters to up to 100 guests for a standing cocktail reception or 88 guests for a sit-down dinner. The two adjacent multipurpose rooms are each 47sqm that seat up to 16 guests for a boardroom meeting.

The resort’s event planners provide customized catering to suit any occasion. Mini mindfulness sessions also enhance the wellbeing of attendees.

“Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s debut marks such an exciting time for Phuket, signaling our genuine optimism for the future of tourism on Thailand’s largest island,” said Mr Maetapong Upatising, Phuket Villa Group’s Managing Director.

“The team and I are thrilled we could bring such a significant hotel debut to fruition during these unprecedented times and we’re delighted with the interest in our resort so far despite the difficulties stemming from the global pandemic,” said Ms Magdalena Martorell, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s General Manager.

“With its distinct focus on guest wellbeing, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao brings Meliá’s sunny Spanish hospitality and passion for service to Phuket, as well as stringent health and safety measures to combat COVID-19,” said Mr Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia of Meliá Hotels International.

Elsewhere in Thailand, Meliá Koh Samui debuted in January 2020 with a nautical theme underscored by boat suites made from refurbished merchant vessels. Meliá Chiang Mai is slated to open in April 2022 with a rooftop bar featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the first property of its brand in Thailand, with 176 guestrooms, is due to open 2023.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao has launched a seven-night sandbox package priced from THB 38,500 (USD 1155) for direct bookings before March 24, 2022 for stays before March 31, 2022. The offer includes daily breakfast for two, a one-way airport transfer and 20% off food and beverage as well as laundry.

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

Metropole Hanoi Introduces New Sustainable Luxury Bath Amenities

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Metropole Hanoi Introduces New Sustainable Luxury Bath Amenities - TRAVELINDEXHanoi, Vietnam, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, in keeping with Accor’s global commitment to replace single-use bathroom amenities with eco-friendly alternatives, is introducing a new range of luxury bath products from French fashion house Balmain Paris.

New shower installations in guest rooms feature tamper-proof 400ml bottles of premium Balmain shampoo, conditioner and body wash. The dispensers and pumps are 100% recyclable. Other Balmain products provided to Metropole Hanoi guests include lotion, perfumed bar soap and hand cream. And premium accessories, including shower cap, vanity kit, sanitary bag, shoe shine, dental kit and shaving kit are also offered to in-house guests.

Metropole Hanoi is seeking to bring its distinctive style of “French luxuriousness” to life by partnering with creative, passionate and sophisticated French brands like Balmain Paris that embody a modern sense of art de vivre.

For nearly half a century, Balmain Hair, which is part of the Balmain Paris fashion label, has combined hair essentials with inspiration from the latest catwalk trends. Established in 1954, the quintessentially Parisian House of Balmain has managed to retain its unique position as both a historic French fashion house and as a trendsetting luxury brand that other fashion houses look to as a reference.

At Metropole Hanoi, the new bath amenities meet Accor’s worldwide sustainability goals under its corporate social responsibility initiative launched in 2011 known as Planet 21. In the past year, the hotel has implemented a number of projects focused on serving the local community in Hanoi, saving energy to fight climate change, and eliminating food waste.

Metropole Hanoi is phasing out all single-use plastic items throughout the guest experience. The hotel has attained “Platinum” level in Planet 21, the program’s highest rank. Other recent Planet 21 actions taken by the hotel include introducing eco-friendly towels and bedding, installing an urban vegetable garden, receiving power from a “green” electricity supply, reusing rainwater, offering organic and certified agro-ecology produce, and much more.

For more details on Accor’s Planet 21 initiative, click HERE.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Grecian Escape One&Only Aesthesis to Open in 2022

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New Grecian Escape One&Only Aesthesis to Open in 2022 - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXAthens, Greece, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Discover a paradise of Athenian elegance drenched in nostalgic mid-century glamour. Situated in 21-hectares of exclusive beachfront estate in Southern Athens, One&Only Aesthesis will be the new Grecian escape. Wrapped in ancient mythology in the heart of the Athenian Riviera, where lavender lands meet sapphire waters and our collection of rooms, suites and villas embody the timeless glamour of the Aegean.

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

Slated to open in late 2022, the One&Only Aesthesis gives travelers the best of both worlds: it’s located a short distance from bustling Athens and iconic sites such as the Acropolis while offering the relaxation and tranquility of a beachfront getaway.

Located on a sprawling coastal area in Southern Athens, just kilometers from the thriving city streets. Discover the natural thermal springs of Lake Vouliagmeni and the endless cove beaches bathed in ancient mythological landmarks. Transcend time in the eye of Greece, and allow your senses to come alive.

One&Only Aesthesis will offer 127 private rooms, breathtaking suites, and private villas designed to frame the enamoring natural beauty of the Grecian coastline. The architecture pays homage to mid-century design with high ceilings, woven leather, muted tones, and accent patterns that embody the inherent beauty of cosmopolitan Riviera.

Drenched in natural beauty, One&Only Aesthesis celebrates the ancient wonders of Athens. Lapped by secret waves, cloaked in flourishing greenery and just moments away from the vibrant metropolis of Athens, feel as if you are in your own private island, in the eye of Greece.

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

About One&Only
At home in the world’s most inspiring locations, hand-picked for exceptional beauty and unique cultural charm, One&Only Beach Resorts, Nature Resorts, Urban Resorts and Private Homes are havens of outstanding style and service that place you in the heart of every fascinating environment. From incredible, authentic cuisine, to unique tailored excursions, and spectacular spaces to simply be; unforgettable moments begin at One&Only. Hand-picked for exceptional natural beauty and cultural charm, be transported by our collection of exclusive resorts, located in unspoilt, breathtaking destinations across the globe.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Around the World in 300 Days: Marriott Bonvoy Is Recruiting Three Travelers to Journey Through Its 30 Extraordinary Brands

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30 Stays, 300 Days
Kike Arnaiz/Kike Arnaiz / Stocksy United

Around the globe, intrepid travelers have been longing for the opportunity to embark on their next great escape and channel their primal need to wander. Today, Marriott Bonvoy – Marriott International’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands and highly awarded travel program – is giving the ultimate gift of exploration to three lucky adventurers: an invitation to experience all of its 30 hotel brands, including its curated collection of whole home rentals, and more over the course of 300 days. The price tag is free, but the value is incomparable.

Inspired by Marriott Bonvoy’s belief in the power of travel, winners will experience exceptional stays extending from The Ritz-Carlton and Westin Hotels and Resorts, to Courtyard by Marriott and Autograph Collection Hotels, and more. The winners will also have the chance to take part in money-can’t-buy experiences from the Marriott Bonvoy Moments program, immerse themselves in the locale, and stay in one of the 50,000+ curated premium and luxury home rentals listed on Homes & Villas by Marriott International, the home rental platform launched by Marriott in 2019. Ultimately, winners will experience the breadth of travel programs and services Marriott Bonvoy now offers.

Travel perks for each winner will include:

  • Round trip airfare
  • Exclusive experiential adventures
  • $10,000 Marriott Bonvoy Gift Card to cover items such as on-property meals, spa services, and activities
  • $15,000 check to use as desired
  • “Take Me Away” kit featuring coveted items from the branded online retail stores on Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques
  • Vouchers for transportation from Uber, where Marriott Bonvoy Members can link their accounts to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on select rides and Uber Eats food delivery
  • Progression towards Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, giving participants the opportunity to unlock exclusive benefits like late check-out, room upgrades, and more, even once their 300 day travel experience is over

Those interested in experiencing this once-in-a-lifetime adventure can submit a TikTok video using the hashtags #30stays300days and #contest from January 18 through March 18, 2022 – ultimately, becoming a Marriott Bonvoy TikTok Correspondent. Marriott Bonvoy invites all adventurers 21 years or older to share why they would be the best candidate for this experience and answer the question, “how has travel shaped you?”– bonus points for creativity. Three individuals will be selected and begin their journey in spring 2022; dates subject to change in accordance with CDC guidelines.

“Our goal with this initiative is to reignite passion for travel in leveraging Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio in a creative way with a digital-first mindset. Travel is without a doubt one of the strongest tools we have to bring people together, broaden horizons, and foster growth all with an unwavering spirit of curiosity,” said Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President, Brand, Loyalty & Portfolio Marketing. “We’re excited for our TikTok correspondents to embrace the transformative power of travel and showcase Marriott Bonvoy as the vehicle to explore the world through this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

As the official Marriott Bonvoy TikTok Correspondents, winners will not only get to experience an all-expenses-paid trip across the globe, but also be ambassadors of travel – documenting the sights, sounds, places, and people they encounter along the way on TikTok and other platforms of their choice. Ideal correspondents should have a passion for exploration, recording their journey in ways that bring locales to life and shows their distinct perception of travel through a digital narrative. The story should be as creative as it is original, producing content that reflects the energy and culture of a place that reinforces just how essential and cathartic travel can be.

Marriott Bonvoy has evolved from a rewards program to an immersive and inclusive travel platform that includes everything from hotel and home rental stays to retail and experiences. The power of travel goes deeper than sightseeing and checking off destinations on one’s bucket list; travel can change views and perceptions, inform, educate, and connect.

For more information about Marriott Bonvoy or to enroll as a member for free, visit here. For more information on how to become a Marriott Bonvoy TikTok correspondent and rules, visit www.30stays300days.com. No purchase nec. 21+, 50 US/DC. Ends 3/18.

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 Contact
Shannon Bodo
Marriott International
Shannon.Bodo@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Inside the Opulent Penthouse at Newly Opened Bvlgari Hotel Paris

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Inside the Opulent Penthouse at Newly Opened Bvlgari Hotel Paris - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXParis, France, January 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Nested on Avenue George V, at the heart of the golden triangle, the Bvlgari Hotel Paris combines Bvlgari’s timeless glamour and heritage with a contemporary design and furniture by world-renowned Italian architects Antonio Citterio & Patricia Viel.

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

The crown jewel in this exceptional setting is the Bulgari Penthouse, where an extraordinary rooftop garden landscaped with Mediterranean plants and fruit trees offers a panoramic view of the French capital’s famous monuments. Blown glass light installations, wooden panels and floor-to-ceiling windows have been used cleverly to make the penthouse much more than just a hotel accommodation. The penthouse suite (with a price tag that starts at €35,000/more than $39,000) spans two floors with its own private roof garden. Views of the Eiffel Tower are included.

Its soaring dining room is layered with antique Altai carpet and lit by a sparkling glass and gold chandelier. It has two kitchens, its own bar, a very large bedroom that looks onto the Eiffel Tower, a bathroom entirely clad in bookmatched Arabescato marble, an adjoining private fitness room, a hammam, a pantry, a living room and dressing room.

Alongside the Bvlgari Penthouse, the latest Parisian gem comprises 76 luxurious residences infused with an instant Italian flair and breathtaking 360° views all over Paris. It is home to Il Ristorante – Niko Romito and an oversized Spa featuring a 25m pool.

High above the intersection of the Avenue George V and Rue Pierre Charron, the majestic terrace is set against the backdrop of Paris timeless rooftops. Oaks, magnolias and philadelphus sit next to redcurrant bushes, apple trees and pear trees, giving the space the feel of Provence in the center of Paris Golden Triangle.

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

About the Bvlgari Hotel Paris
Elegantly located Avenue George V, Bvlgari Hotel Paris is the latest jewel on the Golden Triangle of the City of Lights. This neighborhood, undoubtedly the most exclusive in Paris, is formed by Avenue George V, the Champs-Elysees and Avenue Montaigne. With the Bvlgari Hotel Paris at his heart, surrounded by luxury fashion houses and the city’s iconic cultural sites it attracts the world’s most glamorous crowds. The hotel, its vibrant bar and lounge, the elegant Il Ristorante – Niko Romito and its opulent Spa represent a unique playground for emotions.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News