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Faarufushi Maldives will welcome guests from March 2019 with 80 spacious villas

Bringing barefoot luxury to the remote northern Raa Atoll, Faarufushi Maldives will welcome guests from March 2019 with 80 spacious villas that offer a striking realisation of contemporary design amidst a naturally stunning seascape. Hidden among palm trees are 10 Beach Bungalows and 27 Beach Retreats, whilst 39 sleek Ocean Retreats with Pool are positioned over the island’s sparkling azure lagoon. For the ultimate indulgence, the Island Residence comes complete with an individual expansive infinity pool overlooking at its very own stretch of the Indian Ocean. The hotel’s Nika Spa blends into the lush vegetation of the island with six treatment rooms and a garden compound with a hydro pool surrounded by outdoor lounges and relaxation pavilions. The Faarufushi house reef boasts magnificent coral overhangs and swim throughs, allowing guests to discover the abundant marine life that lies beneath the waves. This spectacular reef will be the ideal experience for divers and snorkelers alike. At the reef’s edge, the overwater bar with alfresco seating provides the perfect sunset view as well as a great location to enjoy floral and tea-inspired cocktails.

Create: Mar 6, 2019 Edit: Mar 17, 2019 International News

Radisson news roundup

Hotel News - Have a look at some of Radisson’s new hotel openings around the world from Ecuador to Georgia RADISSON QUITO REOPENS AFTER $4.5M REFURBISHMENT Radisson’s Park Inn property in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito has reopened to the public after extensive renovations to almost the entirety of the hotel. An incredible $4.5m was pumped into the renovation, which involved not only upgrades to the rooms and common areas, but also gave the hotel a brand new look and feel. The hotel benefits from an amazing location close to the city’s trendy Zona Rosa area, which is also close to the business, financial and shopping districts. The hotel boasts 55 guest rooms and suites, with guests also being able to access the state of the art fitness and wellness centre. Business travelers will also be able to avail of on-site conference and meeting facilities, which have been designed in line with current informal work trends. Frances Gonzalez, vice president of Operations for Radisson Hotel Group in Latin America, says, “We are thrilled to re-introduce one of our excellent brands in the great city of Quito, while exemplifying our growth strategy for Latin America. This fantastic hotel embraces what the Park Inn by Radisson brand is all about with its vibrant colors, unique design and amenities, along with the dedicated staff that provides our ‘Happiness Guarantee.’” RADISSON COLLECTION OPENS IN GEORGIA’S WINE REGION Radisson has unveiled the newest addition to its premium lifestyle collection in the prestigious wine region of Georgia, Tsinandali. The hotel is a stunning 141-key property set within its very own vineyard, which boasts a historic winery, a rooftop spa and outdoor swimming pool. The design of the hotel has been executed with elegance and sophistication, and blends vernacular elements of Georgian style with contemporary flourishes to result in a truly unique offering, which fits with the Radisson Collection properties. Michel Stalport, Area Senior Vice President Russia and Eastern Europe, says, “Georgia is recognized as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, known to be the birthplace of wine, and a place where travelers are welcomed with hospitality like nowhere else. The estate combines magnificent architecture and historical authenticity with the finest new design details to provide guests with truly exceptional and memorable stays.” Wine lovers will rejoice in the experiences available at the hotel, which range from wine tasting and tours to learning about the bottles housed in Prince Alexander Chavchavadze’s personal wine cellar collection.

Create: Mar 2, 2019 Edit: Mar 5, 2019 International News

Makkah set to get the world’s biggest Crowne Plaza Hotel

InterContinental Hotel Group and Bougary Holding sign 1,200-room Crowne Plaza, scheduled to open in Makkah, Saudi Arabia in 2019. InterContinental Hotel Group and Bougary Holding have signed the world’s largest Crowne Plaza, which totals 1,200 rooms, which an opening scheduled for 2019 in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Located in close proximity to the Holy Mosque, the hotel will join the existing InterContinental and Holiday Inn in the city, totalling three properties there. Crowne Plaza Makkah Beban will also offer two restaurants and a coffee shop, a business center, and three meeting rooms (3,323 sqm in total) that can be used as an event space. A WELCOME VENTURE Involved stakeholders were excited about the new agreement. IHG Managing Director India, Middle East & Africa Pascal Gauvin said in a statement: “Saudi Arabia offers great opportunities both in terms of domestic and inbound tourism and is central to our expansion strategy in the Middle East.” He added: “This is a milestone signing for us in the Middle East and is testament to our commitment to the market.” Bougary Holding Co. CEO Loay Bougary said: “We are proud to partner with a strong global player such as IHG on this milestone development. IHG is a trusted brand with in-depth knowledge of the Kingdom and Crowne Plaza Makkah Beban will bring a full range of amenities to pilgrims and other travellers looking for a high-quality hospitality experience.” PRECEDENT FOR LARGE-SCALE DEVELOPMENT This is not the first hotel in the area to have billed itself as the world’s largest. In fact, this new property follows other operators that also have “world’s largest” properties in Makkah – with Marriott opening the world’s largest Sheraton at 1,136 rooms and Radisson Hospitality signing the world’s largest Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson.

Create: Feb 27, 2019 Edit: Mar 2, 2019 International News

AURORA: THE LUXURY SPACE HOTEL WILL ORBIT EARTH BY 2021

Hotel News - The Orion Span start-up has unveiled images of Aurora Station, its future space station designed to accommodate tourists from 2022 onwards, with the launch of the station programmed for 2021. It promises and incredible experience to its future customers. On the menu: 12 days of an unusual vacation at an altitude of about 320 kilometers. The program of activities includes the observation of 16 sunrises and sunsets in one day, flying over the hometown of travelers, games of ping-pong in the state of weightlessness. Guests will also be able to take part in experiments like growing food while in orbit. They will be able to take samples home as a “souvenir”. In order to be eligible for this stay, however, guests will have to undergo a specific training. But its duration, which is usually two years for a trip in space, has been shortened to three months for the Aurora Station. Orion Space has, therefore, opted for luxurious services, in order to differentiate itself from the competition. Because the start-up faces rivals who also seek to offer space tourism, such as the Texas company Axiom Space or Virgin Galactic, founded by billionaire Richard Branson. To support itself, Orion Space launched a crowdfunding campaign that raised about $230 thousand as of now. The goal of Orion Space is to “make space accessible to all”. However, by “accessible to all”, one should understand “all very wealthy clients”. Indeed, as the price of a 12-day stay in the Aurora Station space hotel is expected to be 9.5 million dollars.

Create: Jan 30, 2019 Edit: Feb 13, 2019 International News

Accor’s innovative new mobile offering in the French Alps

Hotel News - AccorHotels has launched a new concept for accommodation in the Alps. Avoriaz 1800 is a collection of containers decked out in timber that are designed to have as little impact on the landscape as possible and to provide flexible and mobile lodgings for the ski resort. We find out more. FLYING NEST LANDS IN THE ALPS French hotel group Accor has been testing a new concept hotel over the past year at events such as LeMans and the Bordeaux Architecture Biennale, which now, for the first time, will be open for the public to experience. The experiment involves the erection of mobile lodgings, which can be shipped in for conferences, events and now for ski seasons, as required. The concept is called Flying Nest, and features a number of shipping containers that have been given a custom overhaul by renowned designer Ora-ïto, who is based in Marseilles. Flying Nest was conceived of as a form of nomadic architecture which can be transported and installed in various destinations as necessary. But, far from compromising on comfort, the thoughtful design of the containers brings a cosy and comfortable offering to wherever it lands. The latest location of Flying Nest is in the Alpine ski resort of Avoriaz. DESIGN AND VISION Damien Perrot, AccorHotels’ Global SVP Design Multibrand, says Flying Nest is a visionary concept which will gives wings to the future of the industry. “We worked on creating an immersive experience more than just a room.” The idea behind the concept, as well as being mobile, is that the arrangement of containers will have as little impact on their surroundings as possible, enabling them to be installed in areas that are of significant natural beauty and that need to be protected. This also allows guest to have a great connection with the destination, and in the case of Avoriaz, skiers can just step out of the container directly onto the mountain and its slopes. The containers come equipped with individual decks, and are connected to each other by walkways and platforms, allowing guests to mingle with each other as they act as social spaces. The containers have one entire side that is made of glass, giving guests incredible views out towards their environment. Approximately 20 units were installed in the French ski resort, which are propped up on piles that sit into the ground with minimal disruption.

Create: Jan 21, 2019 Edit: Jan 23, 2019 International News

Best Western Hotels Resorts Signs New Seafront Resort in Hua Hin, Thailand

Hotel News - Best Western Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a new seafront property in the popular resort town of Hua Hin, on Thailand's gulf coast. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao will feature 410 guest rooms and an array of leisure amenities for all types of guest, including couples and families. Located close to the beach just south of Hua Hin town center and 2.5 hours' drive from Bangkok, this contemporary resort will provide the perfect destination for locals, expats and international travelers seeking a revitalizing break from the city. The centerpiece of this elegant resort will be a series of freeform lagoon pools, slides, waterfalls and a special children's water play zone, all surrounded by tropical palm trees, sun decks and cozy cabanas. Every room features modern amenities and a balcony overlooking these aquatic attractions, while a series of spacious ground floor rooms offer terraces with direct access to the pools. A sunken pool bar creates an ideal spot to enjoy a cooling daytime drink, while the Beach Bar allows guests to chill out with refreshing drinks and gaze out over the glistening Gulf of Thailand. The hotel also features a restaurant serving breakfast and all-day Thai and international cuisine, a daytime coffee shop and a modern fitness center, and onsite parking will be available. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao is owned by One Place Estate Co., Ltd. The signing ceremony was held on December 17, 2018, and attended by Mr Pongpipat Kanjanasupat (4th right), Mr Suvichai Janethanaarthakij (4th left), CEOs of One Place Estate, and Olivier Berrivin (3rd right), Managing Director of International Operations - Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts. "Hua Hin has transformed from a charming coastal town into a thriving international tourism destination that now attracts millions of visitors every year. Newly connected with international flights, it now possesses a wide range of attractions including world-class golf courses, wineries, restaurants and enchanting cultural sites. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao will allow guests to experience the best of this impressive destination in comfort and style, with spacious accommodation and fantastic facilities, most notably its exotic outdoor pools," commented Olivier Berrivin. "Whether guests are seeking a romantic beachfront retreat, a memorable family vacation or a fun-filled getaway for a group of friends, this new resort has something for everyone. We look forward to working with our esteemed partners at One Place Estate as we bring this exciting project to life," he added

Create: Jan 20, 2019 Edit: Jan 20, 2019 International News

Melia opens it's fourth hotel in Cuba

Hotel News—the fourth Paradisus hotel in the Meliá Hotels International chain in Cuba and the first in Cayo Santa María—opened its doors on 8 December. This eco resort is set in a unique natural environment. Cayo Santa María is surrounded by the Buenavista Biosphere Reserve, which boasts the second most important coral reef on the planet. Elegant, sophisticated and modern, Paradisus Los Cayos defines the essence of an all-inclusive natural luxury experience. Overlooking a fine-sand beach stretching for nearly half a mile and bathed by turquoise waters in one of the most unspoilt spots in the key, the establishment blends harmoniously with the nature surrounding it. Paradisus Los Cayos offers 802 Suites and Junior Suites. A large hotel where the architecture and interior design ensure guests can relax in an exclusive private setting. One aspect that sets this eco resort apart from the rest is its 34 swimming pools. Guests can go for a refreshing dip directly from their Garden Swim-Up rooms. The hotel provides two exclusive areas: The Reserve and Royal Service. Designed for guests seeking personalised attention, The Reserve is suitable for lone travellers or families as it offers the Family Concierge service. The Reserve guests can also enjoy areas and amenities especially designed for the most exacting tastes. If you prefer a luxury adult-only experience, Paradisus Los Cayos has a Royal Service area. Besides exclusive access to hotel bars, the lobby and swimming pools, other highlights include an exceptional butler service. The variety and quality of the food is another differentiating factor. With 12 restaurants and 14 bars to choose from, guests can enjoy a huge variety of tastes and textures. They range from Mediterranean dishes to Latin fusion and include the exotic flavours of Asia, signature cuisine and traditional Cuban fare. Guests can also enjoy diverse bar locations and interiors designed to cater for all tastes. Sipping a drink on the beach or gazing at the sunset while savouring a cocktail specially prepared by Cuban cocktail experts are two of the options available for travellers staying at Paradisus Los Cayos. The facilities for the MICE segment will turn this hotel and Cayo Santa María into a new hub for major events. The establishment provides 959 m² for meetings, with a large ballroom (910 m²) that can hold 910 people in a theatre format and 500 in banquet style. There are also alternative locations: beaches, swimming pools, gardens or terraces. Paradisus Los Cayos is destined to become the company’s flagship in Cayos del Norte de Villa Clara. The hotel’s special features and surrounding natural environment make it a unique place for discovering enchanting landscapes and experiencing memorable moments in this Cuban paradise.

Create: Jan 13, 2019 Edit: Jan 19, 2019 International News

Describing Details of Iran Heritage Hotel Design

Hotel News – "The projects are about the buildings with a historical and cultural background." Said the deputy of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Iran regarding the plan for the establishment of heritage hotels in Iran. “These buildings, some of which are registered and some are not, are different from the Eco-Tourism resorts.” Vali Teimuri said. Worldwide, the countries such as Spain and Portugal are leading in restoration of such buildings, and we will follow the design of Iran’s heritage hotels with Portuguese experts. "Our main goal is to work with Portuguese experts, receiving their experience, in order to ultimately cooperate with the domestic investor," he said.

Create: Jan 12, 2019 Edit: Jan 13, 2019 Regional News

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has revamped the Hyatt Place brand in response to guests’ and owners’ evolving needs

The hotel group used direct owner and guest input to inform the brand’s updates in design, dining, technology and new-found focus on well-being. Hyatt Place aims to boost guest experience through this upcoming remodel. “We are keeping the brand relevant and fresh by focusing on giving our guests more customization and control during their travels, developing deeper relationships with our World of Hyatt members and personalized well-being experiences for our guests," Jim Chu, global head of development and owner relations for Hyatt, said in a statement. "By evolving and elevating the brand’s offerings, we believe that we will create a best-in-class experience that will truly redefine the select service category, just as we did 12 years ago when we launched the Hyatt Place brand.” The Hyatt Place redesign aligns with Hyatt Hotels’ global expansion plans for the brand. The Hyatt Place brand has grown 75 percent during the past five years, with more than 305 hotels open in more than 200 cities around the world.

Create: Jan 8, 2019 Edit: Jan 9, 2019 International News

Plunge into world's deepest swimming pool

An Italian spa complex has just opened a swimming pool certified by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's deepest. Named the Y-40 Deep Joy, the pool is now the star attraction at the Hotel Millepini, located in the Montegrotto Terme resort area, near Venice, Italy. This isn't the kind of facility aimed at jaded business travelers hoping to cram in a few laps before they head upstairs to order room service. Deep Joy features a shaft that plunges down ... and down ... and down until it hits a depth of 42 meters (138 feet), a space that could easily accommodate a 13-story building. Designed by architect Emanuele Boaretto and a year in the making, Deep Joy is expected to attract scuba enthusiasts and freedivers -- aquatic athletes whose incredible lung control allows them to spend minutes at depth on a single breath. The pool is filled with 4.3 million liters (1.1 million gallons) of thermal water from local springs, allowing divers to plunge without the skin suits they'd need in open seas or lakes. It also contains underwater caves aimed at training scuba divers to negotiate sub-aquatic landscapes. There's also a suspended transparent viewing tunnel that allows spectators to watch the divers in action. Deep Joy was inaugurated earlier this year at a ceremony in which Italian world freediving champions Umberto Pelizzari and Ilaria Molinari (who dressed like a mermaid for the occasion) plumbed its depths. The pool's creators hope it will transform Montegrotto Terme into an international diving center and raise the profile of what is said to be Europe's largest area of thermal springs. It'll also be open to beginners who want to experience its depths under supervision. Just don't drop your locker key.

Create: Jan 1, 2019 Edit: Jan 2, 2019 International News

Brown will replace Amy McPherson, who announced last week that she will be retiring from the company in early 2019.

Hotel News _ Brown takes over the leadership of Marriott in Europe Marriott International has announced that Liam Brown will take on the role of president and managing director of Europe, a division within Marriott International that encompasses the United Kingdom, Ireland and continental Europe. He is currently president, select brands and owner and franchise services, North America, for Marriott. “Liam is the perfect choice to lead Marriott’s next chapter of growth in Europe,” said Arne Sorenson, president, Marriott International. “Liam has an extraordinary ability to connect with people – associates, guests, owners and franchisees. “His relationship-focused approach to doing business drives tremendous results, earning him fans across our company and within our community of owners. “He’s a world-class executive, who has that terrific combination of property, operations and corporate experience that will serve him well as he takes on this important role.” Over the past decade, Marriott has moved from the number ten position in total rooms distribution in Europe to number two today with over 570 hotels across 41 countries, and another 206 properties in its European pipeline. The company has 23 of its brands represented in Europe. A Dublin-native who has called the US home for nearly 30 years, Brown has served in his current role since 2013, overseeing all of Marriott’s franchising in North America, across all brands, as well as leading Managed by Marriott, which operates more than 425 select service hotels.

Create: Dec 29, 2018 Edit: Jan 2, 2019 International News

Introducing the World's Best Ski Resort in 2019 (Part 3)

W Aspen W Aspen, formerly the Sky Hotel, is a modern day mountain chalet, and will celebrate the spirit of Aspen. An oversized split level living room (which is the W brand’s alternative to the staid hotel lobby) reimagines the traditional hotel dining scene with a modern approach to dynamic cocktails and cuisine. To complete the experience of this incomparable location, the hotel will feature a 1,600 square foot outdoor patio and a 12,000 square foot rooftop bar and pool, overlooking Aspen Mountain and creating the ultimate experience for après-ski and warm-weather events.

Create: Dec 23, 2018 Edit: Dec 23, 2018 International News