Hotel News Professional and Inclusive Hospitality Group

Search result...

The 6th Meeting of the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of the Turkic Council convened in Uzbekistan

The 6th Meeting of the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of the Turkic Council convened on 24 June 2021 in Kokand,Uzbekistan. The meeting was hosted by the Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan H.E. Mr. Aziz Abdukhakimov, moderated by the Secretary General of the Turkic Council H.E. Baghdad Amreyev and attended by the Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Fuad Nagiyev; Minister of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Aktoty Raimkulova; Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey H.E. Mehmet Nuri Ersoy; Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of Kyrgyz Republic H.E.Seyit Rysaliev and Ambassador of Hungary to Uzbekistan H.E.Peter Szanto. Secretary General Baghdad Amreyev briefed the Parties regarding the current state of tourism and developments, as well as the socio-economic implications and reflections of the Covid-19 pandemic in the regional and global level. Informing the Parties on the tourism relations among the Member States, as well as undertakings and activities of the Secretariat, Secretary General expressed that the close collaboration and coordination among the Turkic countries are of utmost importance to mitigate the negative effects of the pandemic, as well as attract more tourists to the region in the post-pandemic period. Secretary General of the Turkic Council communicated the new programs and projects namely “Turkic World Tourism Capital”, “Tabarruk Ziyorat” and “Tourism Map of the Turkic World” and underlined the importance of increasing the number of flights between the major cities of the Member and Observer States. The Secretary General also noted that vocational training programs provided in the field of tourism under the umbrella of the Turkic Council created a unique opportunity for the tourism employees in developing their skills, until now more than 1000 employees benefited from these trainings, the Secretariat will further coordinate the efforts for the continuation of the training and capacity building programs. As the outcomes of the Ministerial Meeting, the Ministers agreed to launch “Turkic World Tourism Capital” project in order to promote tourism in the region, in which one of the cities from the Member States will be designated as “Turkic World Tourism Capital” annually. At the end of the Meeting, city of Kokand announced as the first “Turkic World Tourism Capital” until the next Ministerial Meeting on Tourism of the Turkic Council. In this regard, international conferences and various events will be held in Kokand with participation of public sector, civil society, private sector, academia and other relevant actors from the Member States to promote tourism in the city, as well as promote the city in the Member States and the region. Ministers in Charge of Tourism exchanged experience, information and the precautions taken by the Member States for the safe travel of the tourists during the pandemic; discussed the current tourism relations among the Member States and ways to carry forward the cooperation in the sphere of tourism, as well as prospective plans in the post-pandemic period. Ministers agreed to work on the details of the “TabarrukZiyorat” project and expressed their readiness to involve the holy places of the respective countries to the project. Parties agreed to prepare the “Tourism Map of the Turkic World” to list the main historical, cultural and touristic destinations in the Turkic World, which will be the reference project in determining the main touristic destinations in the Member States. Following the Ministerial Meeting, Secretary General held bilateral meetings with the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of the Turkic Council Member States. During the bilateral meetings, Secretary General and Ministers discussed the cooperation opportunities, as well as the future plans and projects in the field of tourism to realize in the bilateral and multilateral level.

Create: Jun 28, 2021 Edit: Jun 28, 2021 International News

Luxury in the clouds: Shanghai opens world's highest hotel

The world's highest luxury hotel, boasting a restaurant on the 120th floor and 24-hour personal butler service, has opened in Shanghai to guests with deep pockets and a head for heights. Elevators whizz guests up the intimidating spiral-like skyscraper at ear-popping speeds of 18 metres per second to the J Hotel's 165 opulent rooms. The hotel occupies the top floors of the 632m Shanghai Tower in the city's financial district, the second-tallest building in the world after Dubai's Burj Khalifa. Its opening was delayed partly by the coronavirus pandemic but the hotel has now started receiving well-heeled guests who can call on the services of a dedicated butler at any hour, day or night. Patrons can also enjoy one of the hotel's seven restaurants, bars, spa, 84th-floor swimming pool, and all the other usual trappings of a top-notch hotel. It does not come cheap. To celebrate its opening J Hotel is offering a "special experience rate" of 3,088 yuan (US$477) a night, but prices for its 34 suites sky-rocket. A night in a "J Suite", complete with crystal chandeliers and sauna, this Saturday costs more than 67,000 yuan (US$10,360). The hotel is part of Jin Jiang International Hotels, a major Chinese state-owned group, and officially opened on Saturday. "On the day of our opening even the web page was overloaded with so many visitors with strong interest and they have such (a) strong will to come and experience our hotel," said Renee Wu, sales and marketing director. "Of course this is very encouraging to all of us, but at the same time, we are committed to making sure that all our guests are well taken care of."

Create: Jun 26, 2021 Edit: Jun 26, 2021 International News

Tribute Portfolio Expands in Japan With Opening of Hiyori Chapter Kyoto

Tribute Portfolio, the growing collection of characterful, independent hotels from Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s extraordinary portfolio of brands, travel program, and experiential offerings, continues to expand its footprint in Japan with the opening of Hiyori Chapter Kyoto. Located in Japan’s historical and cultural hub of Kyoto, the 203-room new hotel is the second Tribute Portfolio hotel in Japan and is set to showcase the hidden gems of Kyoto for travelers and locals who seek out independent experiences and crave a connection with the community when traveling. “We are delighted to be opening Hiyori Chapter Kyoto, introducing Tribute Portfolio to one of the most sought-after destinations around the globe. The opening further diversifies our exciting collection of hotels in Japan, offering unique experiences to our discerning guests,” said Jennifer Connell, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Tribute Portfolio. “Tribute Portfolio seeks out and highlights the true spirit of a destination and creates vibrant social scenes for travelers to enjoy. The new hotel is set to present captivating design and truly authentic experiences tailored to the locale in Kyoto.” Located near Kawaramachi-dori, Hiyori Chapter Kyoto is adjacent to one of Kyoto’s main shopping streets and the scenic Kamo River. Guests can easily access the main historical and cultural destinations in the city including the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former palace of the Japanese Emperor, and the magnificent Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, with its breathtaking tree-lined gravel pathways, peaceful shrines and lakes. The Osaka International Airport (Itami) is within a 70-minute drive and JR Kyoto Station is within a 20-minute drive from the new hotel, making it easily accessible from other regional and international destinations. The hotel features 203 elegantly appointed guestrooms including two signature suites. Drawing inspiration from Japanese tea ceremonies, the guestrooms feature key elements of Japanese tea rooms and are reimagined with a modern interpretation to offer functional beauty and comfort with a sense of tradition. The Chapter Factory located in the hotel lobby presents a unique way for guests to connect with the local community. Acting as the hotel concierge, the Chapter Factory showcases a selection of curated travel stories from local insiders and hotel staff for guests to discover the hidden gems of Kyoto through a local lens. Guests are also encouraged to share their travel stories in Kyoto by adding new chapters to the Chapter Factory. The hotel’s signature all-day dining restaurant Matsunari offers Western and Japanese contemporary cuisines, serving breakfast and light meals, from baked goods to desserts and creative cocktails. Hiyori Chapter Kyoto also has a fully-equipped, 24/7 fitness center as well as a traditional Japanese public bath, “Hiyori No Yu”. The public bath features a granite bath and an open-air bath surrounded by lush greenery, for guests to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of exploring. “Kyoto is known for its cultural hotspots that are known to international travelers, but it also has many stories about back alleys, restaurants frequented by locals and other places not included in guidebooks. We look forward to providing an unforgettable experience for the modern traveler seeking local experiences and top-of-the-line customer service at the characterful Hiyori Chapter Kyoto,” said Satoshi Furuya, General Manager, Hiyori Chapter Kyoto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

Create: Jun 23, 2021 Edit: Jun 23, 2021 International News

IHG Signs With Asset World Corporation for Three Thailand Hotels

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, is proud to announce the signing of three hotels in Thailand with long-standing partner Asset World Corporation (AWC), the country’s leading integrated lifestyle real-estate group. The multi-property agreement includes the new-build InterContinental Bangkok Chinatown – the first luxury hospitality development in the area – and two further projects in Chinatown and Pattaya, totalling 629 rooms. Rajit Sukumaran, Managing Director, South East Asia & Korea, IHG, said: “We’re excited to work with our long-standing partner Asset World Corporation to unveil these three outstanding properties across Bangkok and Pattaya. Together, they will provide an extraordinary luxury hospitality, retail and lifestyle experience for our guests. “InterContinental Bangkok Chinatown will be our third InterContinental hotel in Bangkok, and is the perfect choice for Verngnakornkhasem, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Meanwhile, we’re in advanced discussion with AWC regarding the brand positioning of the other two properties in our agreement, in Bangkok and Pattaya. “We plan to double our portfolio in Thailand in the next three to five years and these signings represent the strong growth momentum of IHG in Thailand and South East Asia. We look forward to working closely with AWC to expand their diverse hospitality and lifestyle offerings and bring our IHG family of brands to city and resort destinations throughout this wonderful country.” Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President, Asset World Corporation (Plc), AWC, added: “AWC remains confident Thailand’s tourism industry has a strong future and will continue with its investments. “The expansion of our cooperation with IHG further diversifies our hospitality portfolio and allows us to deliver even more impressive experiences while meeting a wider array of customer demands, in turn bolstering the potential of Thailand’s tourism sector to expand its customer base. It will also deliver experiences that will attract tourists from across the globe who emphasise selection and international service standards.” “We’re delighted to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts, who share our vision of bringing world-class destination concepts to Thailand. Signing an agreement with a world-class partner coincides with our quality development plan and we share a vision towards creating a better future through sustainable growth. This collaboration also reaffirms our dedication to playing a part in enhancing Thailand’s tourism competitiveness. Our projects will feature distinct architectural designs as well as impressive experiences while also generating value for their surrounding communities, society and the environment,” Wallapa further stated. “As the first luxury hospitality development in Chinatown, InterContinental Bangkok Chinatown is sure to instantly become an iconic landmark in Bangkok, while our other hotel in Chinatown will elevate the mixed used development project, and offer a fantastic lifestyle experience to our guests.” Set to open in 2027, the 332-room InterContinental Bangkok Chinatown hotel will be located within a vibrant mixed-use development in historic Verngnakornkhasem. It will feature two hotels, residences and a retail mall, including a 24-hour food centre on Charoen Krung Road. Combining the brand’s world-renowned reputation with the wonders of local culture, the hotel will feature three restaurants and bars, as well as a swimming pool, fitness centre and a vast 1,400 square metres of events and meeting space supplemented by eight private rooms. The mixed-use development will also boast the second property under this agreement – a 63-room lifestyle boutique hotel, converted from traditional four-storey shophouses to provide a stylish and authentic stay for visitors to the “Heritage of Asia City” Visitors will be spoilt for choice as they enjoy the biggest array of underground retail outlets in Bangkok, a heritage walk and an entertainment boulevard with space for festive celebrations and cultural performances. A new historical and cultural attraction – “The Golden Pagoda” – is under commission, as well as the construction of an entrance gate to welcome people into the history and culture inspiring destination. A short drive to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, the development is located close to popular tourist attractions including the Grand Palace, the shopping district, Sathorn and Silom. It will form part of the transformation of Verngnakornkhasem and ensure its status as a “must-visit” destination. Another boutique hotel under the agreement – will open in Pattaya in early 2024. Located within the Aquatique district, Pattaya’s first iconic lifestyle destination, it will be at the heart of a major lifestyle and entertainment complex featuring hotels, retail and dining outlets, and convention spaces. With 234 rooms and suites, the hotel will also feature restaurants, a rooftop bar, a swimming pool, spa and meeting rooms in excess of 670 square metres. The triple signing is part of a long-standing partnership between IHG and AWC to manage a portfolio of properties offering more than 1,200 rooms across Thailand, including the 306-room InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping Hotel that will open in 2022. IHG and AWC are also exploring opportunities for the Kimpton brand, a design-led luxury boutique hotel with award-winning restaurants and bars, and heartfelt service in leading resort destinations within Thailand. Thailand continues to be a strong growth market for IHG, with 32 hotels across eight brands in the country and another 33 properties in the pipeline.The new signings are part of the company’s aim to grow its Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio in Thailand by 50%, as well as its estate, across all of its brands, in the country.

Create: Jun 23, 2021 Edit: Jun 23, 2021 International News

Hyatt Opens Alila Hinu Bay in Oman

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Alila Hinu Bay in Oman which joins Alila Jabal Akhdar as the brand’s second hotel in Oman along with 15 other Alila properties worldwide. Distinguished a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, the award-winning brand features luxury hotels and resorts in some of the most spectacular natural locations. The 112-key hotel includes 16 villas and is nestled on a secluded beachfront in Oman’s southwest region of Dhofar. The untouched area is best known for its lush landscapes, cool summers, and it is within easy driving distance from Salalah International Airport. Between Samhan mountain and the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, Alila Hinu Bay caters to well-traveled guests seeking reflection and impactful connections. Along with the breath-taking scenery, the area is known for its rich Bedouin traditions and the renowned warmth of Omani hospitality. Combined with a personalized experience that is crafted for each guest, travelers can expect to be immersed in authentic yet bespoke journeys tailored to their preferences and interests. “We are very excited to add Alila Hinu Bay to the Hyatt portfolio and welcome guests to this region of Oman, a true nature lover’s paradise full of stunning landscapes, waterfalls and greenery,” said Martin Persson, general manager, Alila Hinu Bay. “Dedicated to being responsible and sustainable, guests can enjoy the farm to table concept at one of our three dining options or treat themselves to a customized spa experience that uses natural products.” Accommodations with a View Alila Hinu Bay boasts 112 guestrooms and villas with interiors incorporating local materials which blend natural elements of the outdoors with clean, modern finishes . Guestrooms offer lagoon or sea views, each with its own terrace with fixed seating and the option of booking connecting rooms for families. Pool villas offer the utmost in luxury with private plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs, enabling guests to feel in tune with the natural surroundings. Further, all of the pool villas boast direct access to the beach and plenty of space to relax and recharge. Sustainable Dining Experiences Each of Alila Hinu Bay’s dining venues is committed to sourcing the majority of their produce from local vendors. Seasalt offers views over the ocean and welcomes guests to indulge in a coastal dining experience. The Orchard delivers sustainable, all-day dining, which is brought to life using natural and locally-sourced ingredients. The Lobby Lounge serves light refreshments and takes its cue from traditional Majilis-style seating. Wellbeing Experiences Situated between the mountains and the sea, guests have plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in the beauty of the destination. Diving fans can enjoy the chance to experience some of the world’s most stunning and intact coral reefs, while those interested in fishing can try their hand at reeling in the catch of the day. Those seeking to unwind can relax with a treatment at Spa Alila, which uses only natural products, and which also offers a range of yoga and meditation classes. Stepping outside of the resort, guests can continue their immersion into nature in the greenery of the Wadi Darbat valleys or by visiting natural caves, waterfalls and Khor Rori, the largest nature reserve in the area. Historical and cultural discoveries can be made at Mirbat Castle, the old merchant houses or the Sumhuram Archeological Park. Alila Hinu Bay, Oman, adds to Hyatt’s existing Alila brand portfolio of 15 properties, joining hotels and resorts in Indonesia, India, China, Camboda, Malaysia and the United States. The new property also expands Hyatt’s brand footprint across the Middle East, becoming the 27th Hyatt-branded hotel in the region.

Create: Jun 23, 2021 Edit: Jun 23, 2021 International News

Another recreational pier to be constructed in northern Iran

A new recreational pier will be constructed near the city of Noshahr, which is bounded by the Caspian Sea in northern Mazandaran province. Some 100 billion rials ($2.4 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) have been allocated to the project, which is to be carried out by the private sector, Noshahr’s tourism chief has announced. “Through the project, maritime tourism in the region will be reinforced and more tourists will be attracted,” IRNA quoted Mohammad Valipur as saying on Tuesday. There are also plans to construct twelve more recreational piers on the coastline of the city, but they have not yet found investors, the official added. Back in January, the head of Noshahr’s Fisheries Department Mostafa Rezvani said that constructing such piers could boost the infrastructure needed for developing fisheries investments. This capacity could also facilitate the activities of the fish farms in the coastal waters of the region, he noted. Last August, the construction of the first recreational pier in Mazandaran began in the city of Ramsar. Some 150 billion rials ($3.5 million) were allocated to the project, which aimed to enhance coastal and maritime tourism in the region. With a width of three meters and a length of 100 meters, the pier is being constructed by private investors in close collaboration with the provincial cultural heritage department. This pier is one of the 134 piers, which are decided to be built in the future across the province’s coastal strip, provincial tourism chief Mehran Hassani said. The project, which is planned to come on stream in one year, also includes restaurants, water sports space, and boat mooring. Stretched along the Caspian Sea and Alborz mountain range, Mazandaran is a popular destination for domestic holidaymakers and it is home to more than 3500 villages and rural areas.

Create: Jun 23, 2021 Edit: Jun 23, 2021 Regional News

5-star hotels being constructed in Qom

Upon their completion in the near future, these hotels will bring a significant change to the tourism industry in the central Iranian province, the provincial tourism chief has said. The official briefed on one of the accommodation projects, as an example, saying: “An investment of 2.6 trillion rials (about $62 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) has been made in the Zaferanieh Hotel, one of the under-construction projects,” the official added. “Covering an area of 1,500 square meters, the project is expected to generate 80 job opportunities directly,” he stated. “The hotel will have 90 rooms and will add 200 beds to the hospitality sector of the province,” he noted. The second-holiest city of the country after Mashhad, Qom is home to both the magnificent shrine of Hazrat-e Masumeh (SA) and the major religious madrasas (schools). Apart from sightseers and pilgrims who visit Qom to pay homage at the holy shrine, the city is also a top destination for Shiite scholars and students who come from across the world to learn Islamic studies at its madrasas and browse through eminent religious bookshops. The antiquity of Qom goes back to the Sassanid era (224 CE–651) and several historical mosques, mansions, and natural sceneries have been scattered across the city as well as towns and villages nearby.

Create: Jun 23, 2021 Edit: Jun 23, 2021 Regional News

Hyatt Regency Taghazout Opens in Morocco

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today the opening of Hyatt Regency Taghazout, representing the third Hyatt-branded hotel in Morocco. The 190-room hotel is located directly at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, and offers breathtaking ocean views from every room. Hyatt Regency Taghazout, a beachside property, caters to business and leisure guests alike with stress-free travel experiences. For business travelers who are seeking productive and seamless experiences, Hyatt Regency Taghazout offers several sophisticated venues fit for events and meetings of all sizes. For guests who are looking for energizing experiences, Hyatt Regency Taghazout offers everything from world-class surf spots to small fishing villages to the 27-hole Taghazout Golf Club. Or guests can take a 25-minute drive to reach Agadir City, where they’ll never be without something to do. Travelers will also find themselves close to many of the area’s main tourist attractions such as Paradise Valley, an oasis of mountains and stunning natural rock pools, and many surf schools catering to all levels. “We are excited to welcome guests to the peaceful village of Taghazout. Bordered by the ocean and bathed in year-round sun, we are proud to introduce the Hyatt Regency brand into a new market that matters to World of Hyatt members and guests,” said Pascal Leprou, general manager Hyatt Regency Taghazout. “The property has been thoughtfully designed to create spaces where guests can connect and recharge while enjoying dynamic interactions in our generous public spaces and meeting facilities.” Guestrooms Hyatt Regency Taghazout features 190 exquisitely decorated guestrooms, including 12 Regency Suites, six Executive Terrace Suites – four of which include private swimming pools – and 10 Terrace Suites. Many rooms offer terraces and breathtaking ocean views. Each guestroom offers high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi and streaming ability, providing guests with the option to recharge and relax with some entertainment after a productive day. Dining The new hotel also features a range of culinary experiences to tempt the tastebuds of every guest. Exciting international cuisine with a Moroccan influence can be enjoyed at Citron Brûlé – offering both à la carte or live station meal options – meanwhile Sud, Km 17 offers fresh French and Italian Riviera cuisines and is the perfect place for dining and socializing, with a menu filled with shared plates and exotic cocktails. La Vie en Blue is a pool bar to enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads with superb views overlooking the sea. And finally, Lobby Bar is the ideal place for a lighter snack and a great location to connect and catch up with others. Meetings and Events Hyatt Regency Taghazout offers a selection of sophisticated venues fit for official, social, and personal events – ranging from weddings to business meetings. The hotel boasts three interconnecting meeting rooms, which all include state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities and fill the room with natural daylight through the windows – the perfect backdrop for face-to-face or virtual meetings. Additionally, guests have a selection of function rooms to choose from including a 2,475 square-foot (230-square-meter) ballroom that can be divided into two spaces, a large pre-function area, and an outdoor space spanning 10,763 square feet (1,000 square meters). Fitness and Relaxation Area Ilel Spa offers guests a carefully curated selection of beauty and wellness treatments, including individual and couples’ treatment rooms, a serene relaxation area, sauna, and whirlpool, and a hammam for an authentic Moroccan wellness experience. The hotel also boasts a well-equipped fitness center overlooking the two swimming pools and offers a selection of Yoga and Pilates classes, as well as a variety of nautical sports. Hyatt Regency Taghazout expands the Hyatt portfolio in Morocco demonstrating the country’s growing commercial importance. It becomes the second Hyatt Regency branded hotel in the country alongside Hyatt Regency Casablanca and the second Hyatt branded hotel in Taghazout next to Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay. Further strengthening the Hyatt brand footprint in Morocco, Park Hyatt Marrakech is under development.

Create: Jun 21, 2021 Edit: Jun 21, 2021 International News

Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle Coming to Morocco in 2023

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the debut of its second brand and third hotel in Morocco with the signing of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle in partnership with Al Hoceinia Hospitality. With construction already underway, the hotel is scheduled to open in 2023 and will consist of 133 guestrooms and suites. Located in the heart of Casablanca’s vibrant and exclusive Gauthier district, one of the prominent corporate, financial and entertainment districts, Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle is just 2.5 km from the glistening La Corniche, the charming Old Medina, and Hassan II Mosque, the second largest mosque in the world. The hotel will offer a unique view over the Arab League Park and will also form part of La Citadelle, a new, premium mixed-use development which will comprise of residences, offices and retail outlets. Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Development, Africa & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group, said, “Morocco is a strategic bridge between Europe and the rest of Africa, and a key focus market in our African development strategy. We aim to grow our Moroccan portfolio to over 15 hotels within the next three to five years, and Casablanca is a key city where we are looking to expand our footprint to more than five hotels. Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle is the Moroccan debut of our fastest-growing brand in Africa, and marks our third hotel in the country, joining our other two successful properties, Radisson Blu Hotel, Casablanca City Center and Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carré Eden. We expect to introduce each of our remaining three brands but also cover all segments, from business hotels to resort properties, as well as serviced apartments. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our partners, Al Hoceinia Hospitality, for their trust as we look at working together to reinforce our presence across Morocco with additional properties.” Hamza Laghrari, Managing Director of Al Hoceinia Hospitality, Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle managing company said, “It is with great pleasure that we commence this journey and long-term relationship with Radisson Hotel Group and together introduce the upscale Radisson brand to the Moroccan market. The hotel which will be equipped with the latest innovation to accompany the changing expectations of business customers, will provide a new and an ideal venue for business and leisure guests and an enhancement to the city of Casablanca. As part of our group’s diversification strategy, the tourism industry is an important growth sector in which we see opportunities in the near future, and we are pleased to partner with Radisson Hotel Group to introduce this property and eventually many more. We aim to open a total of five hotels by 2025 in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech and Tangiers.” The Scandinavian-inspired, upscale brand, Radisson, will make its Moroccan debut with the new build, 133-room hotel, consisting of contemporary superior rooms and suites. Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle will enable guests to focus on a work/life balance and find harmony in their travel experience, while enjoying the hotel’s modern, state of the art technology, and design. Various cuisine options will be available at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, patio as well as its panoramic rooftop restaurant. Meetings and event venues will include a large conference and function room as well as five meeting rooms. Perfectly equipped for guests to strike a healthy balance, the hotel will offer both a fitness room and a rooftop pool. Radisson Hotel Group’s top priority is the continued health, safety and security of its guests, team members, and business partners. The Group applies its Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol created in collaboration with SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, and recently unveiled its new comprehensive testing program as the first hotel group to roll out a rapid testing service for meeting and event attendees at properties across its EMEA portfolio.

Create: Jun 21, 2021 Edit: Jun 21, 2021 International News

First agritourism farm to make debut in Minudasht

The first-ever agritourism permit in Minudasht county has been issued for a vast farm, which is located in the lush green Golestan province in northern Iran, Minudasht tourism director announced on Sunday. Such permits are granted to eligible farm owners in the country to launch agritourism businesses, aiming to set certain standards in a move to ensure the quality of their services. Setting up in an area of 40 hectares, the farm is expected to create jobs for 100 people,” Reza Pourmehdi said, CHTN reported. The farm includes a greenhouse, gardens of blueberry, olive, pears, peaches, cherries, nectarines, pomegranates, and it has sections for wheat cultivation, and animal breeding, fish farming, and beekeeping, the official explained. Agritourism is a relatively new branch of the travel industry in which tourists stay with local people in rural areas. Farm/ranch recreation refers to activities conducted on private agricultural lands, which might include fee-hunting and fishing, overnight stays, educational activities, etc. Experts believe that in addition to the customer services jobs, agritourism pays special attention to the production sector, saying agricultural tourism is much more important and practical than other branches of tourism because it creates a new chain and diversity in the field of production and services. Agritourism and nature-tourism enterprises might include outdoor recreation (fishing, hunting, wildlife study, horseback riding), educational experiences (cannery tours, cooking classes, or tea or coffee tasting), entertainment (harvest festivals or barn dances), hospitality services (farm stays, guided tours, or outfitter services), and on-farm direct sales (u-pick operations or roadside stands). Agritourism is a subset of a larger industry called rural tourism that includes resorts, off-site farmers' markets, non-profit agricultural tours, and other leisure and hospitality businesses that attract visitors to the countryside.

Create: Jun 21, 2021 Edit: Jun 21, 2021 Regional News

Magnificent ancient places on Earth: The Gate of Xerxes

The bronze trumpets that once signaled the arrival of important foreign delegations to Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the mighty Achaemenid Empire, may now be silent, but it is still possible to capture the sense of awe while visiting the colossal Gate of Xerxes. Built during the reign of Achaemenid king Xerxes I (r. 486 – 465 BC), who called this his Gate of All Nations, the pillared entrance is guarded by bearded and hoofed mythical figures in the style of Assyrian gate-guards. On arrival at Persepolis one is confronted by an imposing wall, completely smooth and plain, about 15 meters tall: this is the artificial terrace on which the palaces were built. This vast terrace of Persepolis, some 450 meters long and 300 meters wide, was originally fortified on three sides by a tall wall. The only access was from the monumental staircase, which leads to the Gate of All Nations. The gateway bears a cuneiform inscription in Old Persian, Neo-Babylonian, and Elamite languages declaring, among other things, that Xerxes is responsible for the construction of this and many beautiful wonders in Persia. Centuries of graffitists have also left their mark, including explorer Henry Morton Stanley. A pair of colossal bulls guarded the western entrance; two man-bulls stood at the eastern doorway. Engraved above each of the four colossi is a trilingual inscription attesting to Xerxes having built and completed the gate. The doorway on the south, opening toward the Apadana, is the widest of the three. According to sources, pivoting devices found on the inner corners of all the doors indicate that they must have had two-leaved doors, which were probably made of wood and covered with sheets of ornamented metal. Persepolis, also known as Takht-e Jamshid, whose magnificent ruins rest at the foot of Kuh-e Rahmat ("Mountain of Mercy"), was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It is situated 60 kilometers northeast of the city of Shiraz in Fars Province. Persepolis was the seat of the government of the Achaemenid Empire, though it was designed primarily to be a showplace and spectacular center for the receptions and festivals of the kings and their empire. The royal city ranks among the archaeological sites which have no equivalent, considering its unique architecture, urban planning, construction technology, and art. The city was burnt by Alexander the Great in 330 BC apparently as revenge to the Persians because it seems the Persian King Xerxes had burnt the Greek City of Athens around 150 years earlier The immense terrace of Persepolis was begun about 518 BC by Darius the Great, the Achaemenid Empire’s king. On this terrace, successive kings erected a series of architecturally stunning palatial buildings, among them the massive Apadana palace and the Throne Hall (“Hundred-Column Hall”). This 13-ha ensemble of majestic approaches, monumental stairways, throne rooms (Apadana), reception rooms, and dependencies is classified among the world’s greatest archaeological sites.

Create: Jun 21, 2021 Edit: Jun 21, 2021 Regional News

Are You Exceeding Your Guests Expectations?

Hospitality, at its core, is an industry of people taking care of people, and has a long-standing commitment to cleanliness and service standards. While the housekeeping team is central in the delivery of those standards, it operates in the background, out of view. Room attendants and supervisors moved around discreetly to be as invisible as possible. However, COVID-19 has thrust housekeeping into the limelight. As COVID has led to a surge in public health awareness, hotels are now put in a position of making their commitment to cleanliness part of their guest experience. Rethinking operations, and re-designing housekeeping operations using technology is the only way to achieve the productivity and quality that is required. At Knowcross, we focus on three central housekeeping areas: staff productivity, cleaning quality, and guest experience. We have moved swiftly to enhance our products to adapt to the negative impact COVID-19 has had on each of these areas. The unpredictability of the virus means that your hotel must be vigilant in its adherence to new health and safety protocols. Your housekeeping technology has a critical role here and it serves several purposes. First, it underlines that health and safety should always be top of mind every day and that your hotel fosters a culture of accountability. Secondly, health checks and associated reporting help support contact tracing in the event there is a positive test amongst the team. Quicker containment means that the hotel itself can be protected from shutdown and, most importantly, your staff stays safe. Lastly, health checks communicate to your staff that you are looking out for one another. New Cleaning Protocols Hospitality industry was quick to roll out an extensive list of cleaning and safety protocols after COVID-19 erupted. Housekeeping operations must support changes such as the elimination of high-touch items in guest rooms, dedicated ‘cleanliness’ teams and the intensive sanitisation of common areas and guest rooms. All of these changes impact staffing assignments and cleaning times, which have a direct impact on guest experience. The truth is that most hotels, unfortunately, have had to let staff go, resulting in more work for the remaining people. Your housekeeping software must include the configurability to support these variations without adding manual management time. For example, when creating housekeeping tasks, you may now need to a “sanitation > full cleaning > inspection > sanitize & seal” cycle to prepare a departure room for a new arrival. Your system should support this new task structure while also accounting for the time and labor requirements. At Knowcross, we’ve done this with a fully automated system called Dynamic Task Sheets that eliminate the need for a central coordinator in housekeeping to constant- ly create task sheets and juggle staff and rooms among them. In some geographic areas, we have witnessed rules pertaining to a limited percent- age of rooms in active rotation, with accompanying cleaning cycles. Once again, your housekeeping operations software should make the rotation and sanitation of room blocks simple, with few manual adjustments. Conclusion New housekeeping technology enhancements have kept up with changing COVID-19 requirements, but it must be remembered that those hotels with housekeeping management automation solutions were already enjoying the labor efficiencies that are now so sought after across the industry. Whether it’s using PMS data to map cleaning schedules, instantly communicating room status, or providing mobile at-a-glance guest histories, technology can improve productivity and accuracy of housekeeping departments – a must-have in the post COVID world. I have no doubt that intelligent, data-driven housekeeping operations will soon become the norm and hotels will find new, innovative ways to deliver superior guest experiences that today’s travelers yearn for more than ever.

Create: Jun 20, 2021 Edit: Jun 20, 2021 Housekeeping