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IHG’s InterContinental Brand Coming to Sorrento With Redevelopment Hotel Continental

IHG Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce that its luxury InterContinental brand will come to Sorrento in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula as part of the redevelopment of the Hotel Continental. It follows the signing of a management agreement with the Consortium behind the iconic Hotel Continental redevelopment on the state’s famed coastal strip. Hotel Continental, or the ‘Conti’ as it is endearingly called by locals, will have a new, luxurious lease on life when the InterContinental Sorrento opens in November 2021, as the property poises itself to once again become a beacon of glamour and sophistication on the Mornington Peninsula. Following a sensitive, state-of-the-art restoration by the Trenerry Consortium, which is owned by Victor Smorgon Group, the Kanat Group and Trenerry Property, InterContinental Sorrento will occupy the accommodation component of the 145-year-old heritage-listed limestone building and will feature 106 beautifully appointed, spacious guestrooms, many of them with water views. A high-profile chef partnership will soon be announced for the hotel’s signature restaurant, with the property also home to five other dining and bar outlets. In addition, the hotel will feature a sprawling wellness centre incorporating a luxury bathhouse, an outdoor pool, gym and three function and event spaces, including the Conti’s original iconic grand ballroom and will be lovingly restored catering for corporate and social events. Abhijay Sandilya, IHG’s Vice President, Development – Australasia, Japan & Pacific, said: “We could not be more delighted to be adding this very special hotel to our InterContinental portfolio and we’re so pleased to be embarking on the restoration process with this great Consortium of partners. InterContinental hotels around the world, all have a fascinating, alluring story to tell and InterContinental Sorrento with its rich 145-year history is no exception; it perfectly complements our portfolio. We have been looking to grow outside of central Melbourne for some time, and to be expanding into regional Victoria with a property of this calibre and in such a prime tourism location, is incredibly exciting. “With regional tourism in places such as the Mornington Peninsula benefiting from pent-up traveller demand due to Covid-19, the hotel is in a sweet spot to capitalise on this influx of travellers, and with very few luxury hotel offerings in the area, InterContinental Sorrento will be a welcome addition to the region and a treasured addition to the IHG network.” Peter Edwards from Victor Smorgon Group, said: “After working closely with our consultant team, we couldn’t be more pleased to have IHG Hotels & Resorts on board. We are confident that bringing the world’s largest luxury hotel brand to a destination like Sorrento will attract attention from both domestic and international travellers to the region, and we are excited to see the Hotel Continental enter an exciting new era. “Collectively we have a passion and vision for the hotel to be completely revitalised and returned to its former glory as one of the country’s most loved hotels and we’re excited to be embarking on this project with the team at IHG.” Hotel Continental first opened in 1875 and was the brainchild of actor, philanthropist and businessman, George Coppin, who was regarded as the “Father of the Theatre” in Victoria. Coppin’s vision was to create a tourism and cultural heart for the Peninsula where Melburnians and tourists could enjoy a premium seaside resort only a few hours from the city. The hotel sparked an industry that included the steamboat ferry system, transporting travellers from all over the world into the heart of Sorrento, and to the hotel. When InterContinental Sorrento opens in time for summer 2021/22, the beachside glitz, glamour and sophistication of yesteryear will return and once again, the hotel will be one of the state’s most captivating and in-demand luxury hotels. InterContinental Sorrento will be the 10th InterContinental Hotel in Australasia and will join award-winning InterContinental Resort Hayman Island, InterContinental Sydney Double Bay, InterContinental Sydney, InterContinental Perth, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, InterContinental Adelaide, InterContinental Wellington and InterContinental Fiji. The hotel will also complement IHG’s broader InterContinental Resort portfolio in the region which includes Resorts in Bali, Bora Bora and Danang Sun Peninsula. IHG Hotels & Resorts currently has 60 hotels operating under six brands in Australasia, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, voco, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express, with another 35 in the pipeline.

Create: Apr 3, 2021 Edit: Apr 3, 2021 International News

Chartwell Hospitality Opens Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta Marking First Full-Service Hotel in Market in Almost 20 Years

Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta, an eight-story, 249-room full-service hotel in the heart of the Windward Business District, minutes from Avalon Boulevard, Downtown Alpharetta and Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, is the latest addition to Hilton Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s 18 market-leading brands. Chartwell Hospitality opened the full-service hotel in the Windward Business District, a future mixed-use development at the corner of Windward and Northpoint Parkways, offering both guests and locals a sleek and contemporary escape. “Located in the heart of the Alpharetta Windward Business District, the hotel’s location paired with its modern design make it a perfect addition to our portfolio. Over the years, Alpharetta has evolved into a thriving business center, and we have seen an increase in visitors looking for modern new hotel options,” said Rob Schaedle, president, Chartwell Hospitality. “We look forward to delivering an exceptional level of service for all guests who enter its doors.” Additional hotel features and amenities include: AccommodationsOffering convenient access to Downtown Alpharetta and a short drive to Atlanta’s top attractions, the eight-story hotel is home to bright and spacious rooms featuring a modern design with locally sourced artwork adorning guest room walls. Guests at the Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta can look forward to upgraded guest rooms and more. The hotel’s stunning glass lobby, fireside nooks, Executive Concierge level and rooftop terrace elevate our guests to a unique VIP experience. All rooms and suites feature a 49-inch flat screen HDTV, large marble bathrooms, a selection of premium bath products and access to the hotel’s seasonal pool, cabana bar and 24/7 fitness center. DiningHärth restaurant and its flatbread oven will become the anchor of the public area of the hotel, just as the heart of a home is centered on the kitchen. Härth’s menu celebrates American comfort foods while bringing a fresh, contemporary approach to dining. Härth lounge offers the perfect location to unwind and relax, featuring specialty cocktails and light bites. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, along with a private dining room for more intimate gatherings. AmenitiesGuests seeking exercise or relaxation have a variety of options, including: 24-hour fitness center with Precor® equipment and free weights; heated seasonal pool with sunning terraces, cabana bar; and easy access to Big Creek Greenway scenic running/biking paths just a few blocks away. Meetings & EventsWith 6,500 square feet of meeting space, Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta’s meeting and event attendees can choose from our ballroom and breakout rooms, or an executive boardroom, perfect for intimate executive meetings and larger social gatherings. Offering glistening chandeliers, locally sourced art and artistic lighting [JFB1] options in our event foyer to set the backdrop for your next event. Meetings and events are all backed by Hilton EventReady with CleanStay, providing curated solutions for groups, with creative food and beverage, thoughtful technology resources, redesigned spaces for physical distancing, and reimagined ways to meet and gather to create a safe and comfortable environment for event planners and their attendees. Guests visiting Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta will enjoy peace of mind from check-in to check-out with Hilton CleanStay to enjoy an even safer and cleaner stay. New procedures include contactless digital check-in, and a Hilton CleanStay room seal to indicate that the room has not been entered since being thoroughly cleaned. Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta is also part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app. Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta is located at 5775 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005 just 35 miles from Hartsfield Jackson Airport.

Create: Mar 16, 2021 Edit: Mar 16, 2021 International News

Iranian tour operators ask government to issue visas for vaccinated travelers

Head of the Iranian Tour Operators Association Ebrahim Pourfaraj has asked the government to issue tourist visas for the international applicants who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “The Ministry of Health and the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control can at least agree that the international tourists who have received the [second dose of] coronavirus vaccine would be allowed to enter Iran,” Pourfaraj said. He also lamented that the continuation of such a trend would result in losing international tourist markets more than before. “Or at least they should make it clear so that we can respond appropriately to foreign companies and tourists to not to miss the international tourist markets more than before.” Earlier this month, he said that the reasonable prices of Iran tours are expected to bring back the boom into the tourism sector of the country in the post coronavirus era. “Attractive tour plans are also being prepared for those who are eager to explore the historical attractions and natural wonders of the ancient country and want to experience a vacation here,” Pourfaraj said. He also expressed hope that international tour operators and companies who have worked with their Iranian counterparts for years, would put Iran back on the world’s travel route again, considering the facilities they can get at cheaper prices than in other countries. Referring to health tourism as a popular branch in Iran, he noted that medical services in Iran are provided at a lower price than what may be offered at double the price in other countries. Back in January, he announced that the tourist flow from across the world to Iran will return to normal in 2022. Although there are requests for traveling to Iran in the current year (2021), most travel agencies and tour operators believe that the flow will go back to normal in the next year, he explained. “Beginning mass vaccination against the coronavirus will provide better and safe conditions for international travels in 2022.” Last November, the World Tourism Organization announced that international tourist arrivals to Iran plunged 72% during the first eight months of 2020 when compared to 2019, highlighting the severe impact of COVID-19 as the main factor. Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan in October warned that Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism will be in a critical situation if the crises caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus continue. Last August, Mounesan said that Iran’s tourism has suffered a loss of 12 trillion rials (some $2.85 billion) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Furthermore, the minister also noted that the coronavirus pandemic should not bring traveling to a complete standstill. “Corona is a fact, but can the virus stop tourism? Certainly not. For us, the coronavirus is a new experience in dealing with crises that teaches tourism experts around the world how to deal with such a disaster, and thankfully governments are turning this into an opportunity for better planning.” Smart and responsible traveling should replace "do not travel” recommendations, the minister stressed, adding: “In our country, Corona has caused problems in the tourism industry and the worrying point is the continuation of this trend.” “We are well aware of what the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control proclaims [the health protocols], hence as a proposal, we have formulated some smart, responsible travel packages by the implementation of which we could have secure travels,” the minister said. He has repeatedly announced that his ministry is in full coordination with the Ministry of Health for strictly implementing health protocols in travel destinations, hospitably centers, and museums, amongst others, underlining that “people’s health is our priority.” The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

Create: Mar 16, 2021 Edit: Mar 16, 2021 Regional News

Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel Completes Full Property Renovation

Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel announces the completion of its top-to-bottom renovation that includes a total transformation of guest rooms, fitness center, and public spaces, as well as a redesign and upgrade of its more than 100,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces. Associate and guest safety continues to remain paramount during the pandemic with current guidelines located here. Owned and managed by Columbia Sussex, the Renaissance Dallas Addison is extremely popular for groups of all sizes and leisure travelers to North Dallas. Offering the biggest meeting space of any hotel in Addison, the hotel is located in the heart of the vibrant Addison “Restaurant Row” – just steps away from a wide variety of restaurants, nightlife entertainment and upscale shopping destinations, as well as key venues such as Addison Circle Park and Galleria Dallas. The hotel’s comprehensive renovations touched nearly every space within the property and, in keeping with the Renaissance brand’s ethos, were designed to reflect the spirit of the neighborhood, where visitors can enjoy culture, work and play. The area’s growing community of theatre, fine art, music and food invites travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of the area, and the renovations reflect these ideals through neutral color palettes that juxtapose natural wood and leather materials with contemporary designs and thoughtfully-curated artistic focal points. The Renaissance Dallas Addison has implemented a number of health protocols and safety measures to allow people to feel comfortable traveling again when ready, including the option for an entirely contactless stay, social events designed to allow for social distancing, restrictions on fitness center capacity, housekeeping access to guest rooms, and thorough cleaning and sanitation protocols throughout the property that follow Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean protocols. The renovations at Renaissance Dallas Addison included: Meeting & Event Spaces Renaissance Dallas Addison’s expansive meeting and event space – totaling more than 100,000 square feet – attracts groups of all sizes to Addison and, with the biggest meeting space of any hotel in Addison, has consistently been among the city’s most popular meeting destinations. The hotel utilizes the Social Tables virtual platform to create event layouts that enable appropriate social distancing between guests and has remained a popular destination for social events during the pandemic as its space is able to accommodate up to 700 guests with proper social distancing protocols in place. This capacity will grow to 2,000 guests as restrictions are lifted. The redesigned meeting and event spaces offer state-of-the-art conference space, stylish meeting rooms, and indoor and outdoor event venues. The hotel features 37 flexible spaces from boardrooms to ballrooms, with the largest venue offering more than 25,000 square feet. Some highlights of the newly-introduced meeting offerings include: A neutral aesthetic replete with earth tones and natural fabrics reflecting the rich natural landscape and historic industries of oil and cattle that have shaped Addison Custom and innovative menus to inspire guests of all tastes and preferences – from coffee breaks and luncheons to cocktail banquets and seated receptions Anticipatory service aligned with the Renaissance brand, which intends to provide each guest with a unique and delightful experience State-of-the-art audio/visual capabilities to ensure seamless and enriching experiences for all meeting and event guests. Floorplans of the hotel meeting and event spaces are available here. Guest Rooms All 528 guest rooms, including 24 bi-level suites, ranging in size from 750 square feet to 2,400 square feet have been renovated to reflect the new design philosophy using wood, earthy tones and natural materials, coupled with a modern and upscale twist reflecting the Renaissance brand’s comfortable, modern aesthetic. The complete redesign of the hotel’s guest rooms included the appointment of entirely new furniture and furnishings, as well as upgrades to the HVAC system and plumbing. Updates to the guest rooms include thoughtful touches and elements reflective of the Dallas culture, such as the placement in each room of both a photograph of the “Blueprints” sculpture situated just behind the hotel in the Addison Circle Park and a portrait of Dallas-born musician Stevie Ray Vaughan. Additionally, each luxurious guest room is designed for optimal rest and productivity with architectural framing, contrasting finishes and wall cladding, upscale bathroom fixtures, and thoughtful solutions to enhance a guest’s stay, such as: Convenient wall outlets, lamp outlets and nightstands outfitted with USB ports for multiple electronic deviceLuxurious bedding with cotton-rich linens and fluffy pillowsHigh-speed Wi-Fi and a large desk with a well-lit workspace, comfortable chair and plug-in panels55-inch flat-panel TVs with the Marriott Entertainment Package, including premium cable and movie channels to keep guests well-entertainedIn-room refrigerator and coffee barStrategically placed mirrors, including back-lit vanity mirror and full-length mirrorsEclectic art collections featuring subjects local to Dallas. Public Spaces and Fitness Center Upon entering the Renaissance Dallas Addison, guests are immediately greeted by a fully renovated lobby. In its complete transformation, the lobby area was outfitted with new furniture, appealing light fixtures and a Discovery Table that are designed to invite guests into the public spaces with a sense of warm Southern hospitality. The new lobby also features artwork from local Dallas artists, including sculptures from Brad Oldam, and a unique interactive wall that offers a unique Texas belt buckle match game. With views leading into the newly redesigned lobby and downstairs public spaces, on-site restaurant Noell JCT will continue to offer contemporary, American-style cuisine made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The adjacent Noell JCT Lounge has been updated with the addition of intimate, semi-private spaces perfect for small groups to conduct business or to unwind and enjoy an appetizer and a selection from the extensive wine list or cocktail menu. Additionally, the hotel’s on-site state-of-the-art fitness center has been transformed entirely with a larger footprint of more than 4,000 square feet and new Matrix Fitness equipment, including treadmills, stationary bikes, various weight stations and free weights.

Create: Mar 13, 2021 Edit: Mar 13, 2021 International News

Steps Iran must take to become leading player in medical tourism

As you are well aware, medical tourism is booming worldwide as about 20 to 24 million people are traveling for medical treatments annually. Factors such as increased care needs over longer lifespans, rising healthcare costs, and constant pressures on some insurance industries are reasons behind why some opt to travel abroad. Regarding price competitiveness, Iran currently ranks first in the world but the country has not been very successful in attracting potential travelers as other competitors like Singapore and Turkey. People from the Persian Gulf littoral states, Iraq and Syria as well as Iranian expatriates residing in Canada and Germany constituted the majority of medical travelers to the Islamic Republic, who received plastic, cosmetics, open-heart, and orthopedic surgeries amongst other treatments over the past couple of years. A recent study co-authored by Iranian researchers Khalil Momeni, Ali Jannati, Rahim Khodayari-Zarnaq, Shabnam Ghasemyani, and Mohamadreza Havasian, suggests the main difference between Iran other countries they selected for the study lies in the organizational structure of the main stakeholders of the tourism industry; in other countries, this industry is organized and supervised by specific coordination bodies. Data were gathered from databases, including PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Scopus, Magiran, SID, and websites of the World Tourism Association, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Ministry of Health of the selected countries from 2000 to 2020. The study was published in the Melbourne-based Healthscope, which operates private hospitals, medical centers, and international pathology services. Six countries were selected purposefully, including Singapore, Turkey, Costa Rica, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, and Iran. They were compared in terms of the status of tourism and travel competitiveness, governance and policy-making status, the status of the medical tourism industry, and medical tourism infrastructure. In terms of tourism and travel competitiveness, Singapore, with a global rank of 17, was better than other countries. Based on the status of the medical tourism industry, Costa Rica ranked 7th in the world, and Singapore, the UAE (Dubai), Turkey, UAE (Abu Dhabi), Jordan, and Iran ranked 15, 22, 27, 31 35, and 41, respectively. In Iran, all indicators of medical tourism infrastructure were lower than those of other countries except for competitive prices. Comparative tables involved components, such as general profile, tourism and travel competitiveness, governance and policy, the status of the medical tourism industry, and medical tourism infrastructure in selected countries. The framework analysis based on the identified components was used to analyze the data. Furthermore, the study has confirmed that despite the legal framework for medical tourism development in Iran, this industry is currently facing several challenges. “These challenges are lack of specific medical tourism structure at the international, national, and regional levels, the lack of a medical tourism system, definition and formulation of laws, policies, and plans, the lack of infrastructure, and the lack of supervision system.” All of the indicators in tourism and travel competitiveness are low in Iran except pricing, which is ranked as the first cheapest country in the world. The growing medical tourism industry requires the optimal provision of all tourism infrastructures and not only the promotion of different indicators, the study suggests. Based on the report of the Medical Tourism Organization, the UAE, Turkey, and Jordan are the three most important destinations for medical tourism in West Asia. Even though Iran has good conditions in terms of competitive price, presence of skilled physicians, and low waiting time among the studied countries, but other medical tourism infrastructures are not enough invested. For example, until 2017, Iran has not been able to obtain a JCI license even for one hospital, and the average per capita physician/nurse index is much lower than the global one. To promote medical tourism, it is necessary to recognize the strategic medical tourism status of each province in the country, supply a specialized workforce, provide high-quality services, improve infrastructure, and promote a positive attitude of authorities to support the medical tourism industry. The study has also found that factors that can play a positive role in the development of medical tourism in Iran are advanced services for infertility treatment, cosmetic and dental surgery, organ transplantation and cell therapy, cultural similarity and familiarity with neighboring countries, and competitive prices. Measures, such as improving human resource communication skills and developing private hospitals following international standards, can also be effective in developing medical tourism. The main difference between the selected countries and Iran lies down in the organizational structure of the main stakeholders of the tourism industry. The study showed that one of the challenges for growing medical tourism in Iran is the presence of different organs of political and decision-making, as well as the cultural and political conditions. In all other countries, this industry is organized and supervised by specific coordination bodies. The revise of coordinating policies and strategies between various ministries, other government bodies, the private sector could help facilitate cross-sectoral coordination in this area. One of the important factors in the development of the medical tourism industry is the focus on attracting tourists from neighboring countries. Generally, certain populations are attracted more to certain locations. This might be due to a similar ethnic and cultural background. “To increase Iran’s ability to compete with countries in the region, such as Turkey, in attracting medical tourists, long-term plans should be developed to strengthen the infrastructure and cultural reforms, increase private sector participation and plan for the efficient use of mass media and local press for raising awareness. This requires a national effort and redefining the role of health tourism in the economy, as well as a strong trustee to follow up these measures,” the study suggests. According to the authors, the strengths points of the present study are the comprehensiveness of the selected countries and obtaining systematic information according to the appropriate strategy search. One of the limitations of the study is that in many items, the existing indicators are not updated, and some of the documents were in languages other than English and Persian. The Islamic Republic has set goals to exceed its yearly medical travelers to around two million in [calendar year] 1404 (March 2025-March 2026). Amongst Iran’s trump cards are the presence of credible surgeons and physicians, cutting-edge medical technologies, high-tech medicine and diverse specializations, super affordable procedures, and finally its hospitable people.

Create: Mar 13, 2021 Edit: Mar 13, 2021 Regional News

GHM Plans The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha, Qatar

GHM has announced plans to open a new luxury resort, composed of 59 rooms and suites as well as 32 chalets and villas at Katara Cultural Village in Qatar’s capital city, Doha. Developed by the Qatari real estate consortium, Triple A in partnership with Katara Cultural Village, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha, Qatar shall occupy a beachfront setting within the landmark 100-hectare (247 acre) Katara Cultural Village district that includes theatres, concert halls, exhibition galleries, mosques, restaurants, shops, a park and an open amphitheatre. The area is a magnet for well-heeled travellers and Qataris who are keen to explore the cultural heritage of the region. All of Katara’s pedestrian-friendly attractions will be accessible from the property, either by foot or buggy. “The Katara Cultural Village is a microcosm of everything that Qatar stands for and what it aspires to be,” said GHM Chief Executive Officer Tommy Lai. “Our resort shall be both a springboard to and a respite from one of the most invigorating experiences to be had in the region. It is an oasis of calm and heritage in the middle of a dynamic and modern city.” With a design that pays homage to the glories of Indian Mughal Architecture and a touch of Ottoman influence, the new Chedi’s principal hotel building will house a lobby lounge with 180° views of the sea, an expansive spa and fitness facility, and rooms and suites with terraces and views over the Arabian Gulf and Doha skyline. The 32 villas dotting the extensive landscaped gardens in the Katara Hills range from one to five bedrooms, all with private gardens and swimming pools, offering privacy, luxury and tranquillity in the heart of the city. The Chedi’s food and beverage offering will include an all-day dining venue on the ground floor of the palace with live cooking stations and the exquisite Lobby Lounge, which is designed to heighten the welcome experience. An exclusive cigar lounge anchors the ground floor at one end of the palace and neighbours the resort’s Chedi Lounge.On the beachfront promenade, a long swimming pool accents the principal resort building while a second infinity pool offers a relaxing environment for families to enjoy a wide variety of snacks and fresh juices at the stand-alone Beach Club.The property’s architect, WATG, is a 75-year-old U.S.-based firm renowned for its work designing some of the world’s leading hotels, including the first hotel with overwater villas (in Bora Bora in 1961) as well as gems in the region such as the Royal Opera House in Muscat. Its subsidiary, Wimberly Interiors, will handle the new resort’s interior designs, creating an environment of elegance and calm.The resort is expected to open in July 2022, ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2022.Currently, the group flies the Chedi flag at The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, UAE, The Chedi Muscat, Oman, The Chedi Andermatt Switzerland, and The Chedi Hotel & Residences Luštica Bay, Montenegro.The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, UAE was recently hailed by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of the most remarkable hotel debuts of the year on its 2020 IT List. The Chedi Muscat, Oman was also named the #2 Hotel in the Middle East and North Africa by Travel + Leisure magazine’s World’s Best Awards.

Create: Mar 9, 2021 Edit: Mar 10, 2021 International News

Tourism minister cuts ribbon on accommodation centers in Kashan

Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan inaugurated a hotel and two traditional guesthouses during his visit to the central city of Kashan on Tuesday. A budget of five trillion rials ($119 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) has been allocated for the establishment of the hotel, which is estimated to generate 120 job opportunities, CHTN reported. The total budget for traditional guesthouses also amounts to 170 billion rials ($4 million), the report added. The guesthouses are expected to create 40 new jobs as well. There is an additional 160 beds to the hospitality sector in the city with the inauguration of the accommodation centers. Kashan is a historical city near Isfahan in the central part of Iran. Its history dates back to over ten thousand years ago, and it is home to some of the most beautiful buildings featuring Islamic architecture. Many travelers opt to pass Kashan on their journeys between Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz and Yazd, because this delightful oasis city on the edge of the Dasht-e Kavir, is one of Iran’s most alluring destinations. Kashan not only boasts a cluster of architectural wonders, an atmospheric covered bazaar, and a UNESCO-recognized garden, but it also offers some of central Iran’s best traditional hotels. The annual Golab-giri (rosewater distillation) ceremony of Kashan attracts huge crowds to the city every year. Some of the most ancient traces of civilization have been discovered near Kashan, at the Sialk archeological site.

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

White Lodging Opens Austin Marriott Downtown

The new Austin Marriott Downtown opens today, steps away from the most popular downtown tourist attractions, bars and restaurants. The hotel represents the newest design vision for Marriott Hotels, the signature brand of Marriott International, where spaces and amenities are crafted to allow guests to achieve moments of creative brilliance.The 31-story stylishly-designed tower fits seamlessly into the Austin skyline and speaks to the needs of today’s modern traveler, including hand-crafted food and beverage offerings, advanced health and safety features, and plenty of outdoor and socially distant options for connecting with others.Guests will feel a sense of place the moment they walk in the door, whether they’re in town for a staycation, weekend getaway, business trip, meeting or convention. The hotel’s design is inspired by its home city, with limestone and Texas Cedar native to central Texas used throughout the hotel.Guest rooms start on level seven to maximize views of Lady Bird Lake, the University of Texas campus, the city skyline, and in the distance, Texas Hill Country. Of the 613 guest rooms the hotel offers 25 luxurious suites. The reimagined rooms offer a spacious and elevated look complete with tailored solutions that are as inventive as its guests.Based on consumer insights, locally-inspired accents offer a sense of place, and the work surface provides flexibility to freely move and use technology wherever the guest desires. Deluxe walk-in showers and spa-like lighting complete the relaxed experience throughout the room.Hand-Crafted Food and DrinksFrom top to bottom, Austin Marriott Downtown’s restaurants and bars are sure to be new local favorites.Zanzibar. Seven stories up and a world away. Zanzibar, a lush tropical rooftop terrace and pool oasis with stunning views of downtown, opened before the hotel in September 2020. It quickly became a popular spot among Austin locals and travelers alike, known as a socially distant outdoor rooftop where guests can escape the everyday with modern tiki cocktails. It features its own street-level elevator access on San Jacinto Boulevard to transport you seven stories up and a world away.Zanzibar’s menu features modern tiki cocktails and island-inspired small plates. Specialty drinks are influenced with exotic spices grown right in Zanzibar, including cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and clove. Zanzibar is known as ‘spice island’ and was once the largest exporter of spices in the world so the drink and food menus reflect Zanzibar’s unique sense of place and flavors.Corinne Restaurant. Honest food + drink. Featuring one of the largest outdoor patios on West Cesar Chavez Street, Corinne is an honest and fresh neighborhood dining and cocktail spot serving classic, authentic regional classics and American comfort food with an emphasis on signature rotisserie dishes.From the featured Rotisserie Chicken dusted with mustard, thyme and lemon, to the Truffled Bucatini or the Wagyu Beef Tartare, lunch and dinner are complete with variety only available at Corinne. This is the second Corinne location following the first that opened in Denver in 2017.The Lobbyist. The Lobbyist is not only a clever nod to Austin’s history as a capital city, but it will also provide locals and hotel guests alike with a place to pause and reset or reach for a nightcap as they plan their next adventure. With a grand staircase entry, The Lobbyist is a two-story cocktail bar with a mezzanine level overlooking the entire hotel lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows to the outside.Loaf + Vine. Loaf + Vine is a modern urban grocer with a broad selection of quick and freshly made meals, grab-and-go options, fresh bakery goods, and cold drinks and coffee beverages. Available daily is everything from fine wines and craft beer to artisanal local favorites.60,000 Square Feet of Meeting Flexibility Meeting planners have a lot to celebrate about with Austin Marriott Downtown’s Next Gen Meeting Space that is tailored around any needs – from socially distanced setups to large gathering options. The hotel offers an 18,000 square foot exhibit hall filled with light thanks to a 204-foot wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as two 14,000 square foot ballrooms. The hotel follows all of Marriott International’s Connect with Confidence best practices for meetings and events.“This hotel is where Austin’s individuality meets the spirit of Texas,” said David Meisner, General Manager of the Austin Marriott Downtown. “With our state-of-the-art meetings facilities, wide selection of food and beverage outlets and thoughtfully-appointed guestrooms guests can reach their full creative potential. We are ready to be the first to safely welcome so many back to this great city as travel regains its footing.”“At Marriott Hotels, we want our guests to experience forward-thinking, aesthetically pleasing spaces that help foster their inventive nature and allow them to get into their best headspace for success,” said Manny Rappenecker, Vice President, Marriott Hotels. “We are so excited to extend the footprint of our brand in Austin, a city known for its innovative and creative spirit. We hope guests at Austin Marriott Downtown will be able to free themselves of distractions when they step into our hotel, allowing them to focus solely on being the best they can be.”Austin Marriott Downtown offers a completely touchless check-in and check-out experience, as well as elevator and in-room television controls using a personal smartphone. Austin Marriott Downtown is following Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean protocols, created in partnership with leading experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations. These protocols include mandated mask wearing for all guests and associates within the hotel, and the use of disinfectants recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization to sanitize surfaces in the hotels.The Austin Marriott Downtown is owned and operated by White Lodging. White Lodging currently owns and/or manages more than 4,000 guest rooms and 10 restaurants and bars in downtown Austin, including the Moxy Austin-University, which opened in January 2021 as the only one of its brand in Texas.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 7, 2021 International News

SALA Hospitality Group Unveils sala bang pa-in on an Island in the Chao Phraya River

SALA Hospitality Group, Thailand’s homegrown design-led hospitality company, has unveiled the latest addition to its curated collection of beachfront resorts and boutique hotels: sala bang pa-in, a chic and stylish new riverside retreat that allows guests to escape the city, unwind in nature and learn about Thai history. With a fleet of boats awaiting to transport guests on immersive excursions, including complimentary transfers to and from the Summer Palace, every traveller can uncover the rich heritage of a charming yet relatively undiscovered part of the Kingdom. Scheduled to open its doors on 1st May 2021, sala bang pa-in will become the group’s ninth property in Thailand and the fifth member of sala boutique, a portfolio of intimate hotels situated in picturesque locations, many of which are filled with historical significance. Nestled on an island in the Chao Phraya River between Ayutthaya and Bangkok, Thailand’s ancient and modern capitals, Bang Pa-in is an exceptional addition to this anthology. This also marks the latest collaboration between SALA Hospitality Group and Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum from the Department of Architecture Co., the acclaimed Bangkok-based design studio, following the successful openings of Six Senses Samui and SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. In the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, it is said that King Ekathosarot (reign from 1605 to 1620) was shipwrecked on an island in the Chao Phraya, Thailand’s “River of Kings”, as he sailed to the royal palace. There he met a woman living on the island and fell in love. Their alleged son, King Prasat Thong (reign from 1629 or 1630 to 1656) decided to build a palace in Bang Pa-in, as a tribute to the home of his mother[1]. Today, this “Summer Palace” remains an enchanting attraction that echoes the elegance of a bygone era, and guests at sala bang pa-in will be able to discover its secrets with complimentary daily boat services. Celebrating this destination’s vivid backstory and natural beauty, sala bang pa-in is a contemporary boutique retreat that puts guests on the doorstep of the Summer Palace. The hotel houses just 24 deluxe rooms and pool villas, all of which reflect a modern minimalist design concept and cutting-edge technology, such as high-end sound systems with smartphone connectivity, LED TVs and Espresso machines in every villa. Each spa-inspired bathroom comprises a separate bathtub and rain shower, and all 10 villas open out onto expansive riverside terraces with daybeds and private pools. The top room category, the spectacular three-bedroom river view presidential pool villa, offers 484 square metres of indoor and alfresco living space, making it ideal for families and groups of friends. Endless days can be spent exploring this intriguing area aboard the hotel’s own handcrafted 40ft wooden motorboat built by a renowned local boat builder in Ayutthaya, which offers river cruises to the Summer Palace (included in the room rate), along with daily sightseeing tours and sunset cocktail cruises. Alternatively, a luxurious 26ft speedboat is available for half- and full-day private charters and intimate group events. Bang Pa-in is an enticing option for visitors who want to embrace the great outdoors, with plenty of scenic cycling routes to and from the hotel, including a 50km loop that encompasses Ayutthaya and the Summer Palace, and secure bike parking at the hotel. Guests can also jog along a path that winds around the property and along the riverbank, relax with in-room spa and massage services, or plunge into the inviting outdoor swimming pool, which stretches 30 metres along the waterfront. Delectable dining experiences can be enjoyed at sala bang pa-in eatery and bar, its riverside restaurant. The menu of Thai and international cuisine highlights ingredients grown in the hotel’s onsite garden, accompanied by global wines, craft beers and creative cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating is available with panoramic vistas. Within a short driving distance of Bangkok, sala bang pa-in is also an outstanding destination for out-of-town events, weddings and company away days. The 2nd floor multi-purpose meeting room, with its balcony and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, can host inspiring gatherings of up to 20 delegates, the 240sqm river-facing lawn is ideal for weddings, and the entire property can be reserved for unforgettable social or corporate occasions. sala bang pa-in will be led by Mr. Volkert Geertsen, a highly respected international hotelier and Cluster General Manager for sala boutique. The Chao Phraya is a legendary river that weaves timeless tales of Thailand’s past as it winds through the landscape. Now for the first time, curious explorers can discover the fables and folklore of Bang Pa-in, the home of the Summer Palace, while staying in a boutique hotel that delivers world-class experiences for couples, families and groups alike. Just a short distance from Bangkok, yet surrounded by unspoiled scenery, this is a captivating destination for urbanites who want to escape the city and unwind in peace and tranquility. We look forward to welcoming guests to sala bang pa-in, demonstrating our trademark sense of style and showcasing the grace and grandeur of Old Siam,” Mr. Geertsen commented. sala bang pa-in joins sala rattanakosin Bangkok, sala lanna Chiang Mai, sala ayutthaya and sala khaoyai in the sala boutique portfolio. Like all its sister hotels, it infuses the genuine warmth of Thai hospitality with a focus on authentic art, design and culinary creativity. And of course, guests can rest assured that their health and hygiene is SALA Hospitality Group’s top priority. Every property adheres to the SALA Safe programme, which ensures the safety of customers whilst preserving the core guest experience. The full list of measures can be found on the SALA Hospitality Group website. sala bang pa-in is located just 60km north of downtown Bangkok, 28km from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, 41km from Don Mueang International Airport and 74km from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, making it ideal for domestic and international visitors alike.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 International News

Affordable prices expected to bring back boom into Iran tourism

The reasonable prices of Iran tours are expected to bring back the boom into the tourism sector of the country in post coronavirus era, the head of the Iranian Tour Operators Association has said. “Attractive tour plans are also being prepared for those who are eager to explore the historical attractions and natural wonders of the ancient country and want to experience a vacation here,” Ebrahim Pourfaraj said on Thursday. He also expressed hope that international tour operators and companies who have worked with their Iranian counterparts for years, would put Iran back on the world’s travel route again, considering the facilities they can get at cheaper prices than in other countries. Referring to health tourism as a popular branch in Iran, he noted that medical services in Iran are provided at a lower price than what may be offered at double the price in other countries. Back in January, the official announced that the tourist flow from across the world to Iran will return to normal in 2022. Although there are requests for traveling to Iran in the current year (2021), most travel agencies and tour operators believe that the flow will go back to normal in the next year, he explained. Beginning mass vaccination against the coronavirus will provide better and safe conditions for international travels in 2022, he added. Last November, the World Tourism Organization announced that international tourist arrivals to Iran plunged 72% during the first eight months of 2020 when compared to 2019, highlighting the severe impact of COVID-19 as the main factor. Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan in October warned that Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism will be in a critical situation if the crises caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus continue. Last August, Mounesan said that Iran’s tourism has suffered a loss of 12 trillion rials (some $2.85 billion) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. He also noted that the coronavirus pandemic should not bring traveling to a complete standstill. “Corona is a fact, but can the virus stop tourism? Certainly not. For us, the coronavirus is a new experience in dealing with crises that teaches tourism experts around the world how to deal with such a disaster, and thankfully governments are turning this into an opportunity for better planning.” Optimistic forecasts, however, expect Iran to achieve a tourism boom after coronavirus contained, believing its impact would be temporary and short-lived for a country that ranked the third fastest-growing tourism destination in 2019. The latest available data show eight million tourists visited the Islamic Republic during the first ten months of the past Iranian calendar year (started March 21, 2019). Iran welcomed some 7.8 million foreign nationals a year earlier, achieving a 52.5 percent increase year on year. The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 Regional News

Some $154m paid to support tourism businesses across Iran

The Iranian government has paid 6.5 trillion rials ($154.7 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) in loans to the tourism businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic across the country in the current Iranian year 1399 (started on March 20, 2020), the tourism minister has said. Although the coronavirus outbreak has caused significant damage to the tourism industry, one of the ministry’s strategic plans is to diversify tourism products, which is expected to expand economic prosperity, Ali-Asghar Mounesan announced on Monday. Several historical structures and aging buildings have been revived and repurposed into different accommodation centers to attract more domestic and foreign travelers, he added. In recent years, nature tourism has also gained popularity due to the country’s natural beauty and attractions, he explained. In this regard, several eco-lodge units have been established even in the farthest regions of the country as well, the minister noted. Elsewhere in his remarks, he expressed hope that limited Noruz trips would be possible, if practiced under health protocols, during the Iranian New Year vacations, which begins on March 21. Government’s care and support packages Last October, the deputy tourism chief, Vali Teymouri, announced that a new support package was approved to pay loans to businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Depending on the type and activity of the businesses, they could benefit from at least 160 million rials ($3,800 at the official rate of 42,000 rials) to nine billion rials ($214,000) of bank loans with a 12-percent interest rate, he said. The loans would be allocated to tourist guides, travel agencies, tourism transport companies, tourism educational institutions, eco-lodges and traditional accommodations, hotels, apartment hotels, motels, and guesthouses as well as traditional accommodation centers, tourism complexes, and recreational centers, the official explained. Teymouri in September pointed to the 1.3 million tourism workers in the country, who are facing several issues due to the coronavirus crisis and said “This number, in addition to their households, includes a significant population that makes a living through tourism, who are needed to be considered in ministry’s decisions.” Back in August, Teymouri announced that the tourism ministry had approved a total budget of 4,920 billion rials (over $117 million) to support corona-affected tourism businesses, covering as much as 36,000 people working in the tourism sector. Tourism industry in critical situation Mounesan in October warned that Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism would be in a critical situation if the crises caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus continue. Last August, the tourism minister said that the tourism sector of the Islamic Republic had suffered a loss of 12 trillion rials (some $2.85 billion) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. He also noted that the coronavirus pandemic should not bring traveling to a complete standstill. “Corona is a fact, but can the virus stop tourism? Certainly not. For us, the coronavirus is a new experience in dealing with crises that teaches tourism experts around the world how to deal with such a disaster, and thankfully governments are turning this into an opportunity for better planning.” Optimistic forecasts, however, expect Iran to achieve a tourism boom after coronavirus contained, believing its impact would be temporary and short-lived for a country that ranked the third fastest-growing tourism destination in 2019. The latest available data show eight million tourists visited the Islamic Republic during the first ten months of the past Iranian calendar year (started March 21, 2019).

Create: Mar 3, 2021 Edit: Mar 3, 2021 Regional News