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Krabi Hotel Invites Guests to Stay for Good

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Krabi Hotel Invites Guests to Stay for Good - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comKrabi, Thailand, July 12, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX /Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury 72-key resort situated on secluded Tubkaek Beach, is encouraging its visitors to immerse themselves in the local Southern Thai culture, by joining weekly excursions to a nearby island renowned for producing beautiful batik fabrics and woodcrafts.

The initiative is part of the Banyan Tree Group’s “Stay for Good” programme, launched two months ago, aimed at enticing guests at 5-star hotels worldwide to roll up their sleeves and join neighbouring villagers at work.

At the Balinese property of Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape, for example, guests spend a day with local farmers, foraging for fruits and edible plants, while at Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto in Japan, visitors learn how to entwine grass to make traditional thatched roofs for villagers’ homes.

“At Banyan Tree Krabi, we invite our guests to embark on a day’s adventure at the quiet fishing town of Ban Koh Klang on a small island in the middle of the Krabi River,” said Sustainability Manager Ms Thepsuda Loyjiw. “It’s a great opportunity to travel by traditional longtail boat along the river where they might spot some rare bird species and wild monkeys among the mangroves. The island itself is a spectacular natural setting and among the hidden gems we visit is a series of majestic limestone caves.”

A lunch, inspired by home-grown fruits, vegetables and recipes passed down from one generation to the next, is served on a floating restaurant among the mangroves, then the guests meet the villagers and interact.

Among the daily pursuits the foreign visitors can experience are: joining the local craftsmen who intricately carve and create wooden models of longtail boats, which are sold in Krabi as souvenirs; and sitting with the women of Ban Koh Klang who are veterans of batik art, mixing organic dyes and skillfully painting colourful fabrics. Harvesting rice in the fields with a local family is included as a seasonal activity.

Launching the programme in May, Banyan Tree said it hopes the visits will “encourage a deeper connection with each destination while honouring the heritage and traditions and contribute to creating more opportunities for local communities.”

Constantly vying to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint, in December Banyan Tree Krabi partnered with a local artisan, Souvenirs From the Sea, a project involving beachcombing for refuse and waste products that could be upcycled into sellable items such as tote bags.

Banyan Tree Krabi’s other recent sustainability initiatives include an Earth Day beach clean-up, and the introduction of Forest Bathing, a nature-based educational tour for guests, including children, to help raise awareness about environmental conservation and protecting local flora and fauna.

“Of course, many guests come to a serene destination to relax, to enjoy cocktails at sunset, spa treatments, and wining and dining,” said Loyjiw. “However, they also want to see the local customs, and nothing feels better than giving something back to the community.”

ABOUT BANYAN TREE
Banyan Tree offers a Sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. An all-villa concept often with private pools, Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE GROUP
Banyan Tree Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups centred on the purpose-driven mission of stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences.

The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences features an ecosystem of 10 global brands.

Established in 2008, with the goal of advancing people development and management excellence, Banyan Tree Management Academy has nurtured over 8,000 associates across 23 countries. The Group is recognised for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation. Operating over 70 hotels in 17 countries, it has 47 new properties in the pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alma Named Best Family Resort in Vietnam

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Alma Named Best Family Resort in VietnamCam Ranh, Vietnam, July 12, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Alma Resort, a 30-hectare oceanfront property on the Cam Ranh peninsula in southern Vietnam, was named the No. 1 family resort in Vietnam by the influential Australian-based Holidays with Kids magazine.

The resort’s 12 “beautiful” swimming pools drew high praise in the editors’ review, which notes how the pools “cascade down to the beach” where a variety of exciting water sports are on offer.

“Families can enjoy the splash water park with its exhilarating slides, wave pool and lazy river,” the review continues. “There’s also a fantastic kids’ club and a youth club for teens with an abundance of activities to keep guests entertained.”

The Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards showcase the “best of the best” of family-friendly hotels and resorts in Australia and around the world. For a second-straight year, Alma won the top spot in the magazine’s ranking of Vietnam’s 10 best family resorts.

Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said the resort’s location overlooking the 15-kilometre-long Long Beach “couldn’t be better for family travelers.”

“Alma is truly one-of-a-kind with its unprecedented array of family facilities ranging from our 6,000 sqm water park with a lazy river, water slides, wave pool and kid’s pool, to our science museum, cinema, youth club, kids club, 18-hole putting green, sustainable farm and more. We offer all our guests the ultimate beach holiday,” he said.

Alma was also recognized earlier this year as the leading luxury beachfront resort in Vietnam by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach, a waterpark, 13-treatment room spa, 75-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, water sports centre, a sustainable organic farm and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

InterContinental Bangkok Re-Opens, Re-Emergence of a Grand Hotel

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InterContinental Bangkok Re-Opens, Re-Emergence of a Grand Hotel - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELSBangkok, Thailand, June 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The city’s most symbolic five-star luxury hotel returns as the centerpiece of Thailand’s hospitality and re-opens its doors to provide guests with unparalleled luxury experiences and elegant designs inspired by Thailand’s rich culture. The world’s first and largest luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, has officially re-opened InterContinental Bangkok, known as the city’s most iconic five-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, after a multimillion-dollar renovation and spectacular makeover.

Located in Bangkok’s Central Business District directly adjacent to the BTS Chidlom Skytrain, InterContinental Bangkok is at walking distance to the capital’s main lifestyle shopping locations and major business addresses. For two decades, the hotel has been part of the city of angels’ landscape, and its recent multimillion-dollar renovation and an impressive makeover now positions the InterContinental Bangkok like never before, re-emerging as a modern grand hotel designed for contemporary living.

Stephen Gould, General Manager of InterContinental Bangkok said: “As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio InterContinental Bangkok is one of Thailand’s most premium hotels. Welcoming guests back to the InterContinental Life marks a significant milestone for us. Over the course of our renovation, we have thoughtfully woven in a blend of modern sophistication and Thai heritage inspired by the traditions of Thai welcoming ceremonies backed by world-class service. Our elite network of concierges and colleagues combine local expertise and tradition with modernity to spark joy in our guests’ stay, creating truly exceptional experiences and moments that matter for our guests.”

Re-Introducing the InterContinental Life in Bangkok

The hotel re-emerges infused with artistic nods to the beauty of Bangkok’s magnificent palaces and cultural attractions as well as the city’s famous skyline, offering 381 all-new luxury guestrooms, including Club InterContinental rooms and a range of suites.

Guests will experience a fresh aesthetic design at the newly renovated InterContinental Bangkok, inspired by Thailand’s humble culture and reputation as the “land of smiles.”

The lobby’s remarkable centrepiece, a chandelier inspired by the intricate Phuang Malai garland, elegantly welcomes guests with iconic Thai warmth and inspires guests to truly enjoy the InterContinental Life. Throughout the hotel, walls and ceilings showcase Thailand’s heritage and culture with traditional floating flowers and renowned Kranok patterns, which trace back to the Sukhothai Kingdom; while carefully placed modern abstract and local artisan artworks convey the spirit of the Thai welcoming ceremonies and immerse travellers in the country’s rich culture. Even the Grand Ballroom pays tribute to Thai traditions with a chandelier inspired by the elegant attire of traditional Thai dancers.

World-Class Dining

Unique dining experiences will transport guests from west to east at InterContinental Bangkok’s seven dining and bar concepts teamed by some of the most highly skilled head chefs with Michelin-star restaurant leadership experiences.

• SoCal: the debut of the city’s first California-inspired restaurant which features over 50 California wine selections as well as a cuisine and mixology with a variety of fresh flavours, sustainable seasonal produce. Signature dishes include lobster tostada, grilled octopus, pork belly tacos, cioppino seafood stew and slow cooked lamb neck.
• Espresso: An authentic all-day dining with live cooking stations offering quality ingredients, inspired by the street markets of Bangkok where every meal is a journey and a well-travelled experience.
• Fireplace Grill and Bar: Quality classic European dishes since 1966 such as perfectly grilled steaks and seafood, as well as finely crafted desserts.
• Balcony Lounge: A sophisticated ambiance of light dining options, cool refreshments creative afternoon teas, and worldly cocktails made from the finest ingredients.
• Humidor: One of the city’s widest range of whiskies and cigars from around the world for all types of connoisseurs to appreciate.
• Summer Palace: Authentic Cantonese cuisine, exquisitely prepared dim sum and specialities of meals skilfully crafted by talented chefs in a live kitchen atmosphere.
• Butter: A speciality coffee menu, gourmet savouries, sandwiches and salads for eat-in or on the go with teas, coffees as well as patisseries, cakes and sweets.

Dominique Martinez, Food and Beverage Director of InterContinental Bangkok commented on the word-class dining offerings: “Guests should be prepared to indulge in a symphony of flavours as the InterContinental Bangkok reopens its doors. As the city’s iconic hotel, we are passionate about providing guests with a full sense of luxury, including a wide variety of gastronomic pleasures and experiences. Our locally and internationally inspired restaurant and bar concepts have something to offer to everyone, right in the heart of the city.”

Hotel facilities

Guests have access to a wide range of facilities and on-site amenities, including:

• Oasis: A re-imagined rooftop pool delivering panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline.
• Spa InterContinental: A full-service spa offering HARNN body treatments and Elemis facial treatments. A total of nine treatment rooms including three couple rooms and a traditional Thai massage room.
• Infinity Fitness: A 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness centre with an extensive team of private trainers.
• Meeting and Events: A variety of 19 function rooms, meeting and event spaces, including the Grand Ballroom which accommodates up to 1,000 guests. Onsite 4K LED screen: high-intensity LED lighting fixtures with advanced colour mixing technology, video streaming, conferencing, recording capabilities, satellite communications, mobile projection systems and centrally controlled LCD display screens.

Additionally, a full team of InterContinental colleagues, including the hotel concierge is available to support all guests’ needs and further enrichen their experience with in-depth knowledge and local insights.

InterContinental Bangkok is part of the prestigious InterContinental brand, building on its longstanding heritage, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts continues to refine luxury hospitality and is poised to open more than 30 hotels in the next two years. Having recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, InterContinental is continuing to evolve and redefine its ethos of discovery and modern luxury and this new hotel represents a perfect illustration of this evolution.

InterContinental Bangkok is one of 450 hotels in IHG’s luxury & lifestyle portfolio, one of the largest in the industry, and of the more than 6,000 hotels within the IHG One Rewards platform. Centered around guests, the best-in-class loyalty programme offers richer benefits at 18 leading hotel brands and more ways to be rewarded than ever before, all powered by leading technology on the new IHG One Rewards mobile app.

Room rates start from 9,000THB++ for a Classic Room and is available for stays from 1 June 2023. For reservations or enquiries, please visit intercontinental.com/bangkok

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Marks 15 Years of Redefining Modern Luxury

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Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Marks 15 Years of Redefining Modern Luxury - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comKoh Samui, Thailand, May 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, a leading luxury resort on Samui Island, announced its roaring success for 15 consecutive years as this year marks its 15 anniversary and revealed ‘The New Chapters of Luxury – S.E.A’ strategy to add a new dimension to and redefine luxury. The hi-end retreat aspires to elevate itself to world-class status based on three pillars, namely ‘S’ for Sustainability, ‘E’ for Experience and ‘A’ for Activity. The acronym S.E.A. is conceived to answer trends of modern travellers and in response to the recovery of Samui tourism.

Chonlada Soonthonvasu, Silavadee Pool Spa Resort’s managing director, said, “Silavadee Pool Spa Resort is a luxury resort that originated in Thailand and is managed by Thais. As this year marks its 15th anniversary, Silavadee has always been popular among Thai and foreign guests due to various factors such as its pristine location, world-class facilities, superb and meticulous service as well as warmth and uniqueness of Thai hospitality.

Now that Koh Samui welcomes the return of tourists with open arms, Silavadee has reached a 90% booking rate from foreign guests, 20% of whom are repeating guests from Europe, the US, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan while guests in new markets in Saudi Arabia and Israel also head for Silavadee. Most of them have made direct online bookings with the resort, as a result of online marketing plans executed during the height of the Covid-19 crisis which directly linked promotions and news to the consumers. Moreover, guests now are inclined to stay for longer periods and spend more compared to when they did in pre-Covid 2020. Therefore, Silavadee projected a 10% growth by the end of this year in comparison to 2020.

As 2023 marks Silavadee’s 15th anniversary, a new strategy called “The New Chapters of Luxury – S.E.A” has been introduced to deliver utter relaxation to guests through the resort’s three main pillars namely ‘S’ for Sustainability, ‘E’ for Experience and ‘A’ for Activity. The acronym S.E.A answers to the needs of modern travellers who seek a different kind of luxury than they’ve experienced before and responds to the speedy rebound of Samui tourism in the post-Covid-19 world as well as competition among tourism operators on Samui which looks to be increasingly intense.

“For the past 15 years, Silavadee Pool Spa Resort has been recognised and lauded by Thai and foreign guests as a superb resort with great service, beautiful location and unique natural surroundings. These factors motivate us to improve our service level and deliver a higher kind of luxury and we believe that our ‘New Chapters of Luxury – S.E.A’ strategy will guide us to create a truly relaxing experience for guests and help push Samui tourism”, said Chonlada.

The three pillars of ‘The New Chapters of Luxury – S.E.A’ strategy comprises of
1) S: Sustainability, one of the core policies of Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, runs on the concept of “Back to Nature”. It started from the resort’s construction which keeps the natural abundance intact and uses eco-friendly materials for building and amenities within the resort. This year Silavadee will reinforce its commitment to sustainability, environment and community through various actions such as the distribution of income to the local communities by purchasing snacks from local vendors on Koh Samui, sourcing of ingredients within the island to cut transportation and greenhouse gas emissions, turning food leftover into compost for its in-house farm to combat food waste. Guests will also have opportunities to participate in activities which promote the environment and sustainability. For example, a visit to Silavadee Farm which runs on the circular economy concept. It is where vegetables, flowers and melons are grown and chickens are raised for ingredients to be used at the resort.

2) E: Experience is exceptional stay experience. This year, Silavadee Pool Spa Resort plans to elevate a stay into an experience for guests and provide service to meet the trends and behaviours of guests from the moment they book a stay to the checkout. To live up to its motto of ‘Silavadee Pool Spa Resort gives more than other luxury resorts’, there are in-room and in-resort amenities upgrades, new dishes and drinks, and highly attentive service to cater to individual needs and feelings of each guest. The resort hosts training sessions for its 200 staff on a regular basis to equip them with service minds to cater to the needs of guests more specifically. First-time guests will receive impressive experience and service while repeating guests will notice the improvement in their stay experience that the resort strives to deliver. The Experience pillar is Silavadee’s strong point which makes the resort well-known worldwide.

3) A: Activity refers to on-site inclusive activities. Currently, the resort offers a variety of activities for the convenience of the guests. On the occasion of its 15 anniversary in 2023, the resort has planned many activities to entertain guests no matter what lifestyle they have, including wellness service, exercise programme and consultation, food and beverage programmes, DJ sets and live music bands. These activities change monthly so guests can experience different activities during each visit and season.

“Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Koh Samui” comprises 80 guestrooms, 36 units of which are Deluxe type averaging 50sqm in size. Higher tier accommodation includes 40 Pool Villas and 4 Pool Villa Suites. The resort is well-equipped with various facilities such as Thai restaurant The Height, all-day dining restaurant Moon and rooftop bar Star. Silavadee Spa offers pampering and natural treatments in a serene setting. Moreover, guests can rest assured that security and hygiene measures are in place at the resort while all staff adhere to rules and regulations issued by the Thai Ministry of Public Health.

To celebrate the 15th anniversary of Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, guests can enjoy exclusive experiences and privileges until the end of 2023. They can enjoy the specially crafted cocktail Sila 15th, which is made from 15-year-old whiskey and local tropical fruits such as coconut, with smooth sips at the rooftop bar Star. Guests can also embark on an epicurean journey through an exclusive fine-dining seven-course menu created from local ingredients to embody southern Thai culture. It’s affordably priced at 1,800 baht per person and available at The Height. Last by not least is the ‘Silavadee 15th Anniversary’ package which offers a 45% discount from Flexi promotion along with 1,500 baht of resort credit per stay. The offer stands until the end of 2023 so guests can experience ‘The New Chapters of Luxury’ and celebrate the anniversary with Silavadee.

To book a room or find out more about Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, please visit www.silavadeeresort.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai Officially Unveiled

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Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai Officially Unveiled - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, May 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The new city landmark in the heart of Bangkok. Kamkoong Property Co., Ltd. together with Absolute Hotel Services Co., Ltd. are delighted to announce the opening of Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai as the second Eastin Grand branded hotel in Thailand.

The hotel features 494 beautiful rooms and suites ranging from 34-370 sqm. including luxurious penthouse suites. Other facilities include a 1,200 sqm. all-day dining market-style restaurant, a specialty Mediterranean restaurant, fitness centre, spa, executive lounge and two large outdoor swimming pools. The striking interior design of the hotel was inspired by Phaya Thai Palace, which served as King Rama V of Thailand’s recreational residence.

With a total area of 4,570 sqm., the function and event spaces at Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai are one-of-a-kind and feature the latest modern technology to serve all kinds of functions and special events. The hotel also has a 720 sqm. multi-purpose wedding space that can be transformed into any couple’s dream celebration.

The hotel features 2 restaurants. The Market@5 is an international all-day dining and buffet restaurant inspired by street food style food trucks and features an eclectic choice of international cuisine focusing on the classic dishes of each country. For something different, Trattoria@22 offers diners the opportunity to dine on remarkable Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.

Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai is located at The Unicorn building, a mixed-use complex with office space and retail stores. The hotel is conveniently located with direct access to the Phayathai BTS Skytrain Station and is only 5 minutes’ walk from Airport Rail Link Phayathai Station, making it easy to get anywhere in Bangkok.

About Eastin Grand
Eastin Grand Hotels & Resorts is 5-star luxury brand created on relevance to the market and targeted customers’ needs and desires. The brands provide value and consistency through flexible venues and services with added value to serve the desires of business and leisure travellers.

Eastin Brand’s target customers are value hunters looking for luxury, comfort, efficient service and attention to detail and convenience at the right price with maximum flexibility to serve the purpose of their visit, whether for business or pleasure.

Eastin Grand’s unique services include free Wi-Fi, extended breakfast hours till 11:30 hrs., Room Ready Guarantee, complimentary a daybed with breakfast for Children 16 years old and below, a complimentary drink anywhere in the hotel during the stay, 24/7 access to the executive lounge experience (for executive floor guest only) and double your spending money (deposit money on arrival for food and beverages, we top up, up to 100%, no refunds).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dusit Hotels and Resorts Welcomes Three New Hotels

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Dusit Hotels and Resorts Welcomes Three New Hotels - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comTokyo, Japan, May 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit Hotels and Resorts is set to expand its global and domestic footprint by opening three hotels within the next 30 days – including two new properties in Bangkok and its first hotel in Japan.

Hot on the heels of opening its first hotel in Europe, in Greece, and returning to Nairobi, Kenya, in March, with the opening of Dusit Suites Athens and Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi, respectively, Dusit is now gearing up to welcome its first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok – dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok – which will soft open on 12 May 2023.

Located on Si Phraya Road, a vibrant street parallel to Silom and Sathorn roads in Bangkok’s central business district, the new hotel comprises 179 well-appointed guest rooms and boasts a sleek, modern design that reflects Thai culture and embodies the upscale nature of the dusitD2 brand.

The hotel’s wide range of facilities includes a stylish lobby, a fully equipped fitness centre, a versatile meeting space with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, an outdoor swimming pool with a panoramic city view, and a multi-level food and beverage concept featuring a grab-and-go gourmet outlet, an all-day dining restaurant with an open kitchen, and a Miami-inspired rooftop bar called Mimi serving burgers, shakes, craft beers, and cocktails.

Up next, on 15 May 2023, Dusit will mark the official expansion of its distinctive lifestyle brand, ASAI Hotels, by opening ASAI Bangkok Sathorn on Sathorn Soi 12 near Bangkok’s central business district, just a five-minute walk from Saint Louis BTS (Skytrain) Station.

Building on the success of ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, one of the top-rated hotels in Bangkok on TripAdvisor, the new hotel will continue the brand’s promise to uniquely link visitors with authentic local experiences in the world’s most vibrant neighbourhoods – this one renowned for its impressive cluster of hip bars and Thai and international restaurants.

Alongside 106 thoughtfully compact rooms that focus on the essentials, such as highly comfortable beds and powerful showers, the new property boasts a spacious and welcoming communal space that features a cosy neighbourhood bar, a comfortable co-working area, and a unique dining experience created by award-winning chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones, who specialise in authentic Thai cuisine crafted from seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

On 1 June 2023, Dusit will then take the ASAI brand outside of Thailand with the opening of ASAI Kyoto Shijo – Dusit’s first hotel in Japan – which puts guests in the heart of the Shijo-Karasuma neighbourhood, near the famous Nishiki Market in the city’s renowned Downtown area.

Alongside 114 thoughtfully compact rooms designed to offer utmost comfort and convenience, the hotel will feature a large communal hub for work, rest, and play, and a cosy dining room inspired by the rich street-food culture of Bangkok. Regular collaborations with local restaurateurs and artisans and sustainable sourcing of produce will further set the distinctive lifestyle hotel apart.

“As we continue to execute our plan for domestic and global expansion, we are delighted to welcome three new hotels to our portfolio, including our first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok, our second ASAI hotel in Bangkok, and our first hotel in Japan,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “These openings represent significant milestones for our company, and we are confident that their unique positioning and distinctive lifestyle and food and beverage experiences will resonate with travellers from around the world. As we gear up for these launches, we are excited about the future and look forward to making our mark in more key international markets.”

With an additional nine hotels set to open globally before the end of the year, including Dusit’s first entry into Nepal, a second hotel in Japan, and a strategic return to India, Dusit is set to add approximately 1,700 keys to its hotel portfolio, resulting in 62 hotels (13,700 keys) operating across 18 countries worldwide by year-end.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of seven brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, Dusit Suites, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 17 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mondrian Singapore Duxton Unleashes a People-Powered Movement

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Mondrian Singapore Duxton Unleashes a People-Powered Movement - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, January 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / It’s hospitality, but not as you know it at Mondrian Duxton Singapore, where General Manager, maverick and all-round mischief-maker Robert C. Hauck is assembling a team unlike any other to launch something special from Q1, 2023.

Hauck has taken a unique approach to hiring under Mondrian’s ‘unexpected talents’ mantra, scouring the streets and hunting in all the right places for the cream of creative types and inspired individuals from both within and outside the industry to deliver a guest experience with a difference.

Call him a conductor, a disruptor, or one who marches to a different drummer; just don’t call him conventional. Hauck has built a career on breaking new ground and thinking outside the box. Now, this philosophy is given free rein at Singapore’s most eagerly awaited hotel.

“Any hotel is only as good as the people who bring it to life,” says Hauck. “Mondrian has given me the freedom to do something truly innovative and really cast the net wide in taking a new approach to assembling a team. It’s all about creating a place for individuals and personalities with a lot to offer but who may not fit in to a conventional hotel. They might be misfits in a sense, but they’ll fit in here.”

“Here” is Duxton Hill, Singapore’s happening precinct non-pareil, home to the latest addition to the Mondrian family of hotels, joining the brand’s properties in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, London, Cannes, Doha and Seoul. Since its launch in LA in 1996 by Ian Schrager, Mondrian Hotels have been brought to life by the quality of their people and a commitment to creativity, art and the unexpected.

Hauck has begun the hiring process by staring at a blank canvas and painting in bold and unexpected strokes. He has already assembled a core team of over 70 people, ensuring there’s a solid backbone of experienced industry operators to which he has added rebels, dreamers and outsiders, creating a fresh perspective for the hotel, a new energy and a collective entrepreneurial spirit.

Avatar of Hauck’s approach is full body-tattooed Ah Seng, who has turned his life around since leaving prison and has always dreamt of having his own restaurant. He has now been hired to be the manager of Bistro 126, Mondrian’s staff restaurant at their hip Shophouse office space. Or take Raymond Leong, 64, senior sales manager of an events and cruise company, laid off during the pandemic, who reinvented himself as a Grab driver, now hired as a quality and training manager, a job he always aspired to doing.

Unexpected talents with diverse backgrounds can be found everywhere. An elderly cleaner who has three diplomas in marketing repurposed as public area supervisor and director of inspiration. An executive assistant who had been enjoying a retirement baking sourdough bread but got bored, after a career in strategic brand planning for brands that are household names. Social media and visual marketing tyros, fresh graduates, a former Olympian athlete, a luxury fashion expert and award-winning bartenders. These are among the passionate and talented characters given another chance to find their calling.

But how to find them? Hauck’s team can be seen handing out ‘We like your style’ cards to begin a conversation. “My motto is chase talent, don’t wait,” he says. “From tattoo conventions to alternative gigs, from art happenings to theatre and sport, it’s about casting the net wide and knowing true talent when you see it. This will be the essence of what we are bringing to the market at Mondrian Singapore Duxton.”

About Mondrian
The debut of Mondrian Singapore Duxton in Southeast Asia follows that of Mondrian Seoul Itaewon in 2020, which signaled the brand’s entry to Asia Pacific. The brand’s portfolio of seven hotels will more than double its footprint by 2023, with upcoming openings in Bordeaux, Cannes and Australia’s Gold Coast to name a few. Mondrian is more than a hotel: it’s a way of travel. Known for its groundbreaking design and progressive programming it is a “must” destination for locals or travelers. Mondrian is always at the heart of the most exciting cultural scenes in the world, serving up innovation and creativity for everyone. Mondrian provides a playful framework so that guests and locals alike can immerse themselves in the culture of each city it inhabits. Design is at the center of the Mondrian experience with hotels designed by some of the world’s most famous architects and designers, including Philippe Starck and Marcel Wanders. Mondrian is part of Ennismore, a creative hospitality company rooted in culture and community, with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Formed in 2021, Ennismore is a joint venture with Accor, which holds a majority shareholding.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centering the Cooler Season with Winter Guestronomic Journey at Elements

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Centering the Cooler Season with Winter Guestronomic Journey at Elements - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Start 2023 in fabulous flair with the astonishing new ‘Winter Guestronomic Dining Journey’ carefully crafted by Chef Gerard Villaret Horcajo at Elements, inspired by Ciel Bleu at The Okura Prestige Bangkok. This latest dining experience at the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant showcases magnificent premium seasonal ingredients and flavours from some of the finest artisanal producers in Europe and Japan. Available from 4 January 2023 onward.

Chef Gerard’s ‘Winter Guestronomic Dining Journey’ menu is characterised by rich, warm flavours designed to take away seasonal blues. Centering on French cuisine laced with delicate Japanese influences, his dishes are sophisticated in composition and further enhanced using his duo sauce technique. Making menus playful and bold, Chef Gerard continues to celebrate Elements, inspired by Ciel Bleu’s commitment to exquisite fine dining with a twist.

Highlights of the new seasonal set journey include flavourful ‘Ikejime Hamachi’ with kombu, oyster regal and sorrel; a dish of ‘langoustine tail’ with ikura, spinach and veloute that uses whole langoustines to create a deeply rich sauce; and the mouthwatering ‘Brittany lemon sole’ with Japanese hakurei turnip and mussel in which the delicate winter fish is cooked with a classic vadouvan spice marinated in miso and mirin and then rolled in shiso leaves and served with a homemade dashi demi-glaze.

The gastronomic odyssey concludes with a choice of delicate desserts – either way the signature ‘binchotan’ with Japanese whiskey, citrus and caramelize white chocolate; or ‘Provence almonds’ with premium 70% French L’Opera dark chocolate, cranberry and praline rounds off a superb dining adventure on an exquisite sweet note.

The ‘Winter Guestronomic Set Journey’ at Element, inspired by Ciel Bleu, is available from 4 January 2023, from 18:00 hrs. to 22:30 hrs. The ‘Mizu’ 8-course experience is priced at Baht 5,900++ per person; the ‘Chikyu’ 6-course experience is priced at Baht 4,800++ per person; and the ‘Ku-Ki’ 4-course experience is priced at Baht 4,100++ per person.

For more information and reservations please call +66 (0) 2 687 9000

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels and Rafael Nadal Create New Lifestyle Hotel Brand ZEL

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Meliá Hotels and Rafael Nadal Create New Lifestyle Hotel Brand ZEL - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, December 24,  2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tennis player Rafael Nadal and Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International, presented the hotel brand ZEL today in Madrid. ZEL is a new brand of resort and urban leisure hotels that will first begin to operate in Spain, and then later in key destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and America.

The joint venture between these two global brands from Mallorca aims to achieve consistent international growth and capitalise on its hallmark Mediterranean character. The brand will also have a range of different strategic partners in its international growth in areas such as dining, decoration, wellbeing and technology.

“The result of combining the inspirational leadership of Rafa Nadal and the international experience of more than 65 years of Meliá in creating luxury hotels and in hotel management, is the unique brand we present today, which travellers are going to love and which will surprise the new generations. An innovative hotel brand, full of energy, with a new interpretation of well-being and a sustainable business model. We are happy to finally be able to announce our partnership in this project with an icon on both a personal and sporting level such as Rafa,” said Gabriel Escarrer.

“As a Spaniard, a Mallorcan and a global traveller, the launch of our hotel brand is a project that I have had in mind for a long while. ZEL is synonymous with feeling good at all times, enjoying life and the way we live it throughout the Mediterranean. I was really attracted from the start to this new concept we have been working on with Meliá. I’m confident that ZEL will be a great success and will achieve considerable growth and be enjoyed by all of those travellers who stay in the hotels, which in the end is the reason we are creating it,” said Rafael Nadal.

The growth plan foresees the addition of more than 20 hotels in 5 years, focusing on destinations that attract premium-quality leisure travellers, and on “bleisure” hotels in the key regions in which Meliá Hotels International operates in Europe, America, the Middle East and Asia. In a first stage, the brand aims to grow in destinations on the Mediterranean coast and in capital cities such as Madrid, Paris and London, but the first ZEL hotel will open in Mallorca in 2023.

ZEL: a celebration of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

The project is based on the positioning of both brands as ambassadors of Mediterranean values and lifestyle: a passion for the outdoors, delicious cuisine, a focus on architecture and design to provide spacious and bright spaces, with the priority being a connection with nature, the sky and the sea. ZEL hotel guests will be able to take care of both body and soul through wellbeing experiences that they will be able to organise as they wish, with both personal and group activities for physical exercise and fitness.

ZEL offers an inspiring new home-away-from-home experience that evokes the Mediterranean way of life, with a courtyard at the heart of the hotel which acts as a focus for the flow and connection. The patio is an architectural feature that is prominent throughout the Mediterranean, and will lead to other spaces such as terraces, rooftop areas or beach clubs that will be the venues for life in the open air, and where guests can admire panoramic views of stunning beauty. All this combined with an organic atmosphere and an informal design, local cuisine, natural wellbeing and unexpected and vibrant shared experiences. ZEL guests will also have access to a digital community where they can share their experiences and continue enjoying the lifestyle once their stay is over.

One of their many highlights will be the encouragement of social encounters, interactions and experiences through a range of “pop-up corners” dedicated to handicrafts, beauty or product tastings with partner brands.

About Meliá Hotels International

Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has a portfolio of more than 400 hotels (portfolio and pipeline), throughout more than 40 countries, and 10 brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Affiliated by Meliá. 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, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class 2022). Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nicolas De Gols Named General Manager at Le Royal Monceau Paris

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Nicolas De Gols Named General Manager at Le Royal Monceau Paris - TRAVELINDEXParis, December 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris is pleased to announce the arrival of its new General Manager, Nicolas De Gols. Nicolas De Gols, has just joined the team of Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris and is thus positioned as the youngest General Manager of Palaces. He officially took office on December 1st, 2022, after having led the hotel on an interim basis since June.

• Discover Paris and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

“I am very happy to become the General Manager of Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris, the most Parisian and contemporary of Palaces. Its strength lies in the different talents that make up its team. I look forward to this new challenge and to making the hotel shine globally through the Raffles brand.”

Epicurean by nature, Nicolas De Gols is graduate of the Lycée Hôtelier Paul Augier in Nice, and a certificate in Hotel Asset Management and Real Estate Investments delivered by Cornell University, where he will teach courses in catering a few years later.Nicolas De Gols began his career in 2011 with Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, where he was successively as Assistant Director of Food and Beverage in Beverly Hills, Director of Food and Beverage in Seattle, and then moved to Paris in 2018.

Today, the Raffles group has entrusted him with its Parisian Palace, a world he knows well for having directed of the restauration of the Four Seasons George V Paris, which has three Michelin-starred restaurants. With international experience acquired mainly in France and North America, Nicolas De Gols most recently oversaw food and beverage operations for Accor’s 50-hotel luxury portfolio in Europe, for which he developed new F&B concepts and supervised a dozen openings.

His excellent knowledge of the ultra-luxury sector, his creativity, combined with his leadership style and business experience will be essential for this new role, and should enable Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris to maintain its position as the destination of choice for both international clientele as well as local guests.

• Discover Paris and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News