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Minister cuts ribbon on palace museum complex in western Iran

Iranian tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan on Tuesday inaugurated a palace museum complex during his visit to Sanandaj, the capital of Kordestan province. Several other provincial and local officials, travel insiders, and cultural heritage experts attended the opening ceremony of Khosro-Abad Palace Museum, which is named after a centuries-old mansion located within the historical complex, CHTN reported. The palace complex has its roots in ancient Persia; however, it was more prosperous during the Qajar era (1789 to 1925). Kordestan also spelled Kurdistan, is bounded by the Iranian region of Azarbaijan on the north, and it borders Iraq on the west. The name Kordestan means “Country of the Kurds,” referring to the region’s principal inhabitants. After the Turkish invasion of Iran in the 11th century CE (Seljuk period), the name Kordestan was applied to the region comprising the northwestern Zagros Mountains. It was during the reign of the Safavid monarch, Shah Abbas the Great, that the Kurds rose to prominence, having been enlisted by Abbas I to help stem the attacks of the marauding Uzbeks from the east in the early 17th century.

Create: Jul 7, 2021 Edit: Jul 7, 2021 Regional News

Hakim Mosque: a hidden gem to visit in Isfahan

The lesser-known Hakim Mosque is a visually stunning monument in Isfahan, which travelers can pay a visit to near the centuries-old bazaar of the central Iranian city. The elegant mosque is not only a house of worship but also a public building serving a multiplicity of uses. It is a gathering place for prayers five times a day, an Islamic college, and an emergency shelter for travelers. Built-in the mid-17th century during the reign of Shah Abbas II, the mosque is named after its constructer who was a physician (“Hakim” in Persian). The mosque has no monumental entry, but five different minor entries. Frequently, a mosque is also used as a shortcut for another destination beyond the place of worship. Although the penetration of the mosque walls may take many forms, the primary destination is always the same. It is a courtyard that can be called a monumental space. The mosque also contains amenities, such as washrooms and toilets, for public use. Isfahan has long been nicknamed as Nesf-e-Jahan which is translated into “half the world”; meaning seeing it is relevant to see the whole world. In its heyday, it was also one of the largest cities in the region with a population of nearly one million. The cool blue tiles of Isfahan's Islamic buildings, and the city's majestic bridges, contrast perfectly with the encircling hot, dry Iranian countryside. The huge Imam Square, best known as Naghsh-e Jahan Sq. (literary meaning “Image of the World”), is one of the largest in the world (500m by 160m), and a majestic example of town planning. Built in the early 17th century, the UNESCO-registered square is punctuated with the most interesting sights in Isfahan. Modern Isfahan is now home to some heavy industry, including steel factories and a nuclear facility on its outskirts, however, its inner core wants to be preserved as a priceless gem.

Create: Jul 7, 2021 Edit: Jul 7, 2021 Regional News

Thon Hotel Brussels Airport to Complete Renovation by End of 2021

Thon Hotel Brussels Airport announces the end of a full renovation of the property by the end of 2021. Located 5 minutes from Brussels National Airport and the NATO headquarters and only 15 minutes from the city centre of Brussels, Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is ideally located for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel is part of the Norwegian hotel chain, Thon Hotels, which recently aligned their brand with the motto “Add colour to your day”. The Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is one of the latest properties that has undergone a change in comfort and style to ensure the best possible stay for the guests. By the end of 2021 the hotel will have completed a full refurbishment. Renovations include a new design for all 100 guest rooms, a marble breakfast buffet with new matching restaurant furniture and a stylish lobby set. All items have been carefully curated by Sissel Berdal Haga Thon, head of design at the Olav Thon Group, and the Norwegian interior architect, Trond Ramsoeskar, who have worked to transform the hotel from an airport hotel to a Thon Hotel full of colour and light. In the trendy bar area, guests can enjoy a new level of entertainment as a pool table and foosball table were put in place. The hotel set up a Grab & Go self-service market replacing the full restaurant service, offering a variety of snacks, meals and drinks at all times. Both guests and external visitors can buy a takeaway meal for their flight, lunch break or take it up to the room. Other facilities that are worth mentioning are the arrival of an air-conditioned exercise gym with Technogym equipment and the complete renovation of the meeting room with all the technical equipment. Next to a change in style and services, the hotel has invested in and improved the security and safety of the building by replacing the fire central and detection units, extinguishers and fire doors and by adding security cameras in and around the building. With these refurbishments, the Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is the perfect place to stay for any trip in the airport business district.

Create: Jul 1, 2021 Edit: Jul 1, 2021 International News

Here are destinations near Tehran to escape summer heat

Summer has arrived in the northern hemisphere. It is great news for the sun-lovers flocking to beach resorts. But what about those who want to beat the heat? If cool weather and even cooler destinations are more to your taste, here are places around the Iranian capital where scorching heat will be nothing more than an afterthought! On the northeast side of Tehran, you can find plenty of cool townships and villages such as Fasham, Ahar, Meygoun, Oushan, Damavand, Cheshmeh A’la, and Garmabdareh to name a few. These destinations, in addition to the fresh air, fruit gardens, and lush gardens, are mostly equipped with proper recreational facilities and abundant local restaurants. On the east, Shahandasht waterfall may be the top of your agenda. The 50-meter cascade is situated off the Haraz road, which connects Tehran to the Caspian Sea in the north. Adjacent to the falls stands a Sassanid-era (224 CE to 651) stronghold, named Qaleh Malek-Bahman, which worth paying a visit. Tangeh Vashi, a popular mountainous resort that is known for having a pleasant, cool stream can be your other choice in the east direction. Tangeh Vashi is where many opt for walking for minutes to cool off. Situated some 15 kilometers west of Firouzkouh, Tangeh Vashi also bears a 19th-century bas-relief commissioned by Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797 – 1834) to commemorate hit hunts during summer excursions. Apart from the east, you can choose to stay in Kan and Sulaqan, which are riverside rural districts westward. Another cool spot may be colorful valleys across the popular Chalous road that embraces hectic rows of restaurants and coffee shops. The villages of Darband and Darakeh stand out when it comes to the north of Tehran. Those are amongst the most accessible cool destinations for relaxing and enjoying good Iranian cuisine, good weather even climbing easy mountain routes. Tajrish Square is a gateway to the rocky Darband where people hike upward trails. A few kilometers uphill from the atmospheric square the road ends, becoming a path winding up a narrow rocky valley, with water cascading down the slopes. The trail heads up into the hills past a picturesque succession of teahouses, restaurants, and fruit-conserve stalls. A visit to Darband can easily be combined with Sadabad Cultural-Historical Complex. You may exit the once royal complex via the top entrance and keep going up the hill and perhaps drink a cup of tea and puff on a qalyan (hobble-bobble) while submerged with a mountain-village feel. Also, Darakeh is where you can enjoy the lovely nature, listen to the sound of the river, and rest for a while. It is teeming with beautiful scenery, a good trekking path, and countless riverside restaurants and cafes. For people who want to do more, it is possible to hike towards the Tochal cable car and beyond. The bustling Iranian capital, however, never disappoints its travelers! Exploring this mesmerizing metropolis will transport you on a journey through more than 250 years of Iranian history – from the dazzling Golestan Palace and the adjacent Grand Bazaar to the majestic Borj-e Azadi (“Azadi Tower”) and the former U.S. embassy in downtown Tehran. The Iranian capital is also home to prestigious museums such as Treasury of National Jewels, Niavaran Palace Complex, National Museum of Iran, Glass & Ceramic Museum, Masoudieh Palace, Sarkis Cathedral, Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, Carpet Museum of Iran, to mention but a few. Serene gardens, contemporary cafes, and traditional teahouses are other options where you can relax and enjoy all that is good about Tehran.

Create: Jul 1, 2021 Edit: Jul 1, 2021 Regional News

Accor Plans Q4 2021 Opening of Raffles the Palm Dubai

Accor, a world-leading augmented hospitality group with more than 600 hotels and resorts across India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, is opening its first Raffles Resort in the Middle East, on the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Set to open in the last quarter of 2021, Raffles the Palm Dubai will be the first ultra-luxury addition to Accor’s existing diverse portfolio in Dubai. The group is partnering with Emerald Palace group (EPG), which has been successfully developing and constructing residential projects in Ukraine, UAE and Russia since 1996. At present, EGP has 8 new developments under construction, with a further 10 at project stage. “We are pleased to partner with Accor to establish the first Raffles resort in the Middle East. Our international expertise in developing and constructing hotel and residential projects combined with Accor’s knowledge, presence and prestigious brand portfolio set the grounds to open the best hotel in town!” mentioned Dr. Nver Mkhitaryan, Owner of EGP Group. Raffles the Palm Dubai will be situated within 100,000sqm landscape on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the world’s largest man-made island and archipelago. Its privileged location boasts panoramic sea views and vistas of the Dubai’s iconic skyline while offering a tranquil and private escape, just a short drive away from the city’s vibrant attractions. Once open, the resort will offer 389 luxurious rooms – starting from 65 sqm- , suites and villas, each of them featuring a balcony and terrace showcasing unparalleled sea views. Not only will this new property offer unrivalled hospitality, it will also go beyond expectations by providing the legendary Raffles butler service and offering eight new unique lifestyle food and beverage experiences. Guests looking to relax during their stay will be able to indulge in Cing Mondes Spa, an award winning 3,000sqm Parisian brand with an iconic design, never before seen in Dubai, featuring 23 treatments rooms and two private spa suites, as well as the city’s largest indoor swimming pool. Rising above the cobalt blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the property is flanked by a 500 meter private white sand beach offering the perfect scene for an ultra-luxurious beach experience! Guests and residents will be introduced to a brand new concept beach club offering which will showcase Mediterranean cuisine, entertainment offerings and much more coming to the shores of the Raffles the Palm Dubai. When staying at the Raffles the Palm Dubai, one can expect discreet service, refined dining and artfully curated experiences, setting a new precedent in a city synonymous with pioneering hospitality. “This is a very exciting opportunity for us” says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey. “There are very few beach resort plots left in Dubai and none on the Palm Jumeirah. The size of the property and its location perfectly lend itself to provide a prestigious address for the Raffles brand” With properties all around the world, each Raffles reflects the mood of its location while featuring a personality that is both intimate and luxurious and Raffles the Palm Dubai will be no exception. Guests will find themselves immersed in a luxurious urban sanctuary with sumptuous facilities, including a collection of eight dining offerings fit for royalty. Raffles frequent and novice guests will be introduced to some key elements of the Raffles brand, including the Raffles Patisserie, Writers Lounge and Library. Set to become the new “must-see” destination in Dubai, the property will undoubtedly meet the expectation of travelers from around the world. Guests looking for a private stay will be introduced to the private villas on the beach, while those travelling with family will enjoy world class amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a cinema, a dedicated children’s swimming pool and kids’ and teens’ club. Adventurous travelers can partake in a wealth of water sports and recreational activities such as paddle boarding, or take introductory courses in diving. “We are confident that the new Raffles will compete with world-class luxury hotels across the globe. While being located in Dubai, one of the most sought after cities in the world, Raffles will open its door to provide an unprecedented and exclusive level of luxury. From the private villas on the beach and array of dining offerings, to the expansive outdoor areas ideals for weddings and events, Raffles the Palm Dubai is all set to become a destination in itself!” adds Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. Accor currently operates 410 properties (89,116 rooms) in India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey with 222 more (50,690 rooms) in the development pipeline.

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

Thon Hotel Brussels Airport to Complete Renovation by End of 2021

Thon Hotel Brussels Airport announces the end of a full renovation of the property by the end of 2021. Located 5 minutes from Brussels National Airport and the NATO headquarters and only 15 minutes from the city centre of Brussels, Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is ideally located for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel is part of the Norwegian hotel chain, Thon Hotels, which recently aligned their brand with the motto “Add colour to your day”. The Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is one of the latest properties that has undergone a change in comfort and style to ensure the best possible stay for the guests. By the end of 2021 the hotel will have completed a full refurbishment. Renovations include a new design for all 100 guest rooms, a marble breakfast buffet with new matching restaurant furniture and a stylish lobby set. All items have been carefully curated by Sissel Berdal Haga Thon, head of design at the Olav Thon Group, and the Norwegian interior architect, Trond Ramsoeskar, who have worked to transform the hotel from an airport hotel to a Thon Hotel full of colour and light. In the trendy bar area, guests can enjoy a new level of entertainment as a pool table and foosball table were put in place. The hotel set up a Grab & Go self-service market replacing the full restaurant service, offering a variety of snacks, meals and drinks at all times. Both guests and external visitors can buy a takeaway meal for their flight, lunch break or take it up to the room. Other facilities that are worth mentioning are the arrival of an air-conditioned exercise gym with Technogym equipment and the complete renovation of the meeting room with all the technical equipment. Next to a change in style and services, the hotel has invested in and improved the security and safety of the building by replacing the fire central and detection units, extinguishers and fire doors and by adding security cameras in and around the building. With these refurbishments, the Thon Hotel Brussels Airport is the perfect place to stay for any trip in the airport business district.

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

Here are destinations near Tehran to escape summer heat

Summer has arrived in the northern hemisphere. It is great news for the sun-lovers flocking to beach resorts. But what about those who want to beat the heat? If cool weather and even cooler destinations are more to your taste, here are places around the Iranian capital where scorching heat will be nothing more than an afterthought! On the northeast side of Tehran, you can find plenty of cool townships and villages such as Fasham, Ahar, Meygoun, Oushan, Damavand, Cheshmeh A’la, and Garmabdareh to name a few. These destinations, in addition to the fresh air, fruit gardens, and lush gardens, are mostly equipped with proper recreational facilities and abundant local restaurants. On the east, Shahandasht waterfall may be the top of your agenda. The 50-meter cascade is situated off the Haraz road, which connects Tehran to the Caspian Sea in the north. Adjacent to the falls stands a Sassanid-era (224 CE to 651) stronghold, named Qaleh Malek-Bahman, which worth paying a visit. Tangeh Vashi, a popular mountainous resort that is known for having a pleasant, cool stream can be your other choice in the east direction. Tangeh Vashi is where many opt for walking for minutes to cool off. Situated some 15 kilometers west of Firouzkouh, Tangeh Vashi also bears a 19th-century bas-relief commissioned by Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797 – 1834) to commemorate hit hunts during summer excursions. Apart from the east, you can choose to stay in Kan and Sulaqan, which are riverside rural districts westward. Another cool spot may be colorful valleys across the popular Chalous road that embraces hectic rows of restaurants and coffee shops. The villages of Darband and Darakeh stand out when it comes to the north of Tehran. Those are amongst the most accessible cool destinations for relaxing and enjoying good Iranian cuisine, good weather even climbing easy mountain routes. Tajrish Square is a gateway to the rocky Darband where people hike upward trails. A few kilometers uphill from the atmospheric square the road ends, becoming a path winding up a narrow rocky valley, with water cascading down the slopes. The trail heads up into the hills past a picturesque succession of teahouses, restaurants, and fruit-conserve stalls. A visit to Darband can easily be combined with Sadabad Cultural-Historical Complex. You may exit the once royal complex via the top entrance and keep going up the hill and perhaps drink a cup of tea and puff on a qalyan (hobble-bobble) while submerged with a mountain-village feel. Also, Darakeh is where you can enjoy the lovely nature, listen to the sound of the river, and rest for a while. It is teeming with beautiful scenery, a good trekking path, and countless riverside restaurants and cafes. For people who want to do more, it is possible to hike towards the Tochal cable car and beyond. The bustling Iranian capital, however, never disappoints its travelers! Exploring this mesmerizing metropolis will transport you on a journey through more than 250 years of Iranian history – from the dazzling Golestan Palace and the adjacent Grand Bazaar to the majestic Borj-e Azadi (“Azadi Tower”) and the former U.S. embassy in downtown Tehran. The Iranian capital is also home to prestigious museums such as Treasury of National Jewels, Niavaran Palace Complex, National Museum of Iran, Glass & Ceramic Museum, Masoudieh Palace, Sarkis Cathedral, Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, Carpet Museum of Iran, to mention but a few. Serene gardens, contemporary cafes, and traditional teahouses are other options where you can relax and enjoy all that is good about Tehran.

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

China Releases Plans for Permanent Mars Base

China’s state-owned Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) has announced some ambitious plans to establish a permanent crewed base on the surface of Mars. In a speech at the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2021), CALT head Wang Xiaojun elaborated on the country’s three-step approach for future missions to the Red Planet, state-owned newspaper Global Times reports. The announcement sends a strong signal that China is just as interested in developing a human presence on the Red Planet within the next 20 or so years as NASA and SpaceX — or, at least, that it sees propaganda value in planning out such missions. Three Steps to Mars China is hoping to start with a Mars sample return mission in the early- to mid-2030s, as well as a mission to find the best spot for a future base. Next is a crewed mission, which will involve laying the foundations for the Mars base. In the early 2040s, the country is hoping to establish a “large scale Earth-Mars cargo fleet” for “large scale development of the Red Planet,” according to Global Times. Sky Ladder China is hoping to use nuclear power to allow the first crews to travel to Mars, according to Wang. The scientist even mentioned a “Sky Ladder,” essentially a type of space elevator, that could carry cargo and crews to the Moon using just four percent of the cost. This would involve a capsule traveling along a carbon nanotube to a space station before relaunching towards the Moon. These ideas may sound mostly like science fiction at this point. But if China’s recent track record is anything to go by — the country has managed to send rovers to both the Moon and Mars as well as establishing a space station in orbit over the course of just several years — it may just have a shot at realizing its Mars exploration goals as well.

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

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