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Ryanair unveils largest ever Dublin schedule

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 21, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

January 21, Ryanair has announced its largest ever summer schedule from Dublin Airport, with 120 destinations and over 900 weekly flights available to customers.

Ryanair unveils largest ever Dublin schedule

The schedule includes sunny getaways to Spain, Portugal and Italy.

The carrier also confirmed it will create 30 direct jobs as a result of adding an additional aircraft to the Dublin-based fleet.

With an additional 22 routes compared with summer 2019, Ryanair said its Dublin schedule is a direct result of the recently launched Traffic Recovery Scheme from airport operator daa.

With many airlines cutting capacity and routes this summer, the carrier said Ireland must lower access costs as it competes with regions and airports in other EU countries for a diminished pool of carriers.

Ryanair predicts the total number of short haul seats on offer in Europe will shrink by 15 per cent this summer compared to 2019.

Ryanair chief executive, Eddie Wilson, said: “After two years of stop/start ineffective travel restrictions, the daa have finally been given the tools to incentivise travel with its Traffic Recovery Support Scheme (TRSS) which was recommended by the aviation task force to government in their report of July 2020.

“This scheme gives Ryanair the confidence to invest in our largest ever summer schedule and largest number of based aircraft at Dublin Airport.

“The daa TRSS scheme will ensure airport charges are competitively priced versus other EU countries this summer, and Ryanair have responded by launching its largest ever investment in aircraft, connections and jobs at Dublin Airport.”

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Pharrell Williams to open Bahamas beach resort

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 21, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 19, 2021 – David Grutman of Groot Hospitality and pop-star Pharrell Williams have agreed to partner with Atlantis Paradise Island to open a brand-new resort: Somewhere Else.

Pharrell Williams to open Bahamas beach resort

The property (which is adjacent to Atlantis, and which will take over the current site of the Beach) is set to offer an immersive experience.

The duo have already garnered collaborative success as partners on Swan, the Miami-based restaurant, and the Goodtime Hotel, a Miami Beach-based boutique concept.

Somewhere Else will feature over 400 guestrooms and suites alongside an array of vibrant, top-tier dining venues, lushly landscaped grounds, an oceanfront beach, multiple pools and recreation areas, luxury amenities and live entertainment.

An atmosphere of tropical modernism will be seen and felt throughout the resort; Shawn Sullivan, of Rockwell Group, is the lead designer on the project.

Together with Grutman and Williams, this group is creating an enthralling oasis in and of itself – yet Somewhere Else will also be within easy reach of Atlantis Paradise Island’s myriad dining and entertainment options.

“Somewhere Else is going to be a one-of-a-kind resort,” said Grutman.

“Not only will it offer a major extension of the unforgettable and high energy experiences we deliver with Groot Hospitality, but also, a clear focus on nature and restorative elements.

“We’ll have something for everyone, yet Pharrell and I are making sure Somewhere Else is unlike anywhere else.”

Atlantis Paradise Island is home to five properties, including the iconic towers of the Royal, the family-friendly accommodations at the Coral, residential-style studios and suites at the Reef, opulent suites at the Cove, and water-side villas at Harborside Resort.

The resort offers immersive programming connecting guests to the history, art, marine life, people, cuisine, and festivities of the Bahamas, while underscoring critical marine life and environmental sustainability efforts.

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Source: breakingtravelnews

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Croatian government cancels their special requirements for South Africans to enter Croatia

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

January 20, 2022, Great news, this week the Croatian government cancelled their special requirements for South Africans to enter Croatia. They no longer need to be 7 days in Isolation and then test out.

Latest Travel Advice Croatia

You just need to provide proof of one of the following when entering:

• A negative PCR (taken 72 hours before arrival at the border) or antigen test taken (48 hours before arrival)

• proof of vaccination, showing final dose taken more than 14 days ago

• Proof of recovery from Covid more than 11 days and less than 365 days ago

• Proof of recovery and first does vaccination more than 11 days and less than 365 days

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TAG Airlines expands its flights in Mexico

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

January 20, TAG Airlines continues with its expansion plans in Mexico and is already preparing to connect Guatemala City (GUA) with Merida, Yucatan (MID) during the first quarter of this year, in addition to announcing a new route between the Guatemalan capital and Oaxaca (OAX) in order to strengthen connectivity to the Mayan World.

TAG Airlines expands its flights in Mexico

By 2021, TAG consolidated its operations in Mexico with the start-up of new routes and destinations connecting Guatemala with the Mexican states of Quintana Roo and Chiapas, which have reported an occupancy rate of over 90%.

In August of last year, the Guatemalan airline began its first routes between Guatemala City (GUA) and Cancun (CUN) and Tapachula (TAP), routes that benefit corporate and leisure passengers.

Moreover, on December 1, 2021, it launched the route between Flores (FRS) and Cancun (CUN), which connects with the Mexican Caribbean and the most emblematic area of the Mayan World.

The Mundo Maya region has become a major tourist attraction in the region, TAG Airlines maintains the firm objective of strengthening connectivity in the region, Guatemala is the third most important Central American air market in Mexico by a number of passengers and air operations.

Figures obtained by Aviacionline through the Mexican Ministry of Communications and Transportation (SCT) indicate that in 2019 between Mexico and Guatemala 521,421 passengers and more than 7,000 tons of cargo were handled in 8,336 air operations, making it one of Mexico’s main Central American markets.

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Whats cooking in Italy – Potato Gnocchi

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Whats cooking.

What’s cooking? World recipes

What’s cooking in Italy – Potato Gnocchi: Recipe, Tips and Tricks

Potato gnocchi are apparently easy to make, but they hide a series of small pitfalls that can determine the outcome of a bad dish.

What are the secrets to make potato gnocchi that do not lose shape when cooked, that maintain a smooth texture, soft and palatable, and that have the slight taste of potato and not the annoying flavor of flour?

In this recipe we’ll show you a series of small tricks and tips necessary for those who are recently approaching potato gnocchi recipe and want a safe and satisfactory result on the first try.

Ingredients

500 g (about 1 lb) of Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold Potatoes
150 g (5,3 oz) of “oo” flour
2 tablespoons of 1 beaten egg (about half egg)
fine salt

Directions

Step 1) – Wash the potatoes with their skin under fresh water. Then cook them in a large pot with plenty of water. Occasionally, feel with a fork to check the cooking (from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes). When they are cooked, drain and peel them.

Step 2) – Place the flour on your work surface and make a well in the center then put the potatoes in a potato masher and mash-up, slowly at the beginning, to let out the excess water. Repeat this until all the excess water will be output from the holes. This way the potato masher have to release only the puree.

All this operation is worth to prevent the dough to soften too much: if this is your case, don’t make the error of compacting it by adding more flour. The best flavored potato gnocchi are those with less flour as possible. If the dough is still too soft, add a teaspoon of starch, but NOT flour.

Step 3) – In a plate beat the egg with a fork. Then add a pinch of fine salt and 2 tablespoons of the beaten egg (this way yolk and egg white are portioned in equal amounts).

Step 4) – Mix the ingredients with your hands, quickly and for a short time. A long process would make the dough sticky. Potato gnocchi dough has to be mixed very little and possibly when the potatoes are still warm because the heat favors the assembly.

Step 5) – Quickly make a ball and absolutely do not add flour. If you have followed the instructions on how to boil and then drain the potatoes, you will see that it will not be necessary. You will get a soft ball but compact. Now you can work on a wooden surface, if you like. Cut a piece of dough and place it on the floured surface.

Step 6) – With your hand make a long roll of dough as thick as a finger. Slice the roll every 2 cm (about 1 inch), so as to obtain small cylinders.

Step 7) – Now you have to use agnocchi board previously floured: slide your little gnocchi over the gnocchi board by pressing lightly with your thumb in the middle. Proceed to make potato gnocchi until all the dough is finished. Let rest gnocchi at room temperature for about 20/30 minutes before cooking.

Why potato gnocchi have to rest before cooking?

Resting time is important for many reasons: they completely cool and slightly dry out on the surface. This step is necessary so that gnocchi can retain their shape even after cooking.

In fact, if you put immediately potato gnocchi into the boiling water, they can glue to each other.

On the contrary, if you leave gnocchi rest more then half an hour, they may dry out and become dark and hard. The ideal resting time is around 20 minutes, maximum 30.

How to cook potato gnocchi

Gnocchi cooking should be made in a large pot with plenty of salted water. Gnocchi are dipped into boiling water after being slightly shaken by the flour. Do not stir too much during cooking and especially do not do it quickly. Potato gnocchi are ready when they come fully to the surface.

So drain them few at a time, with a perforated ladle (not with the colander!). Place them into a bowl with the seasoning you prefer (eg: melted butter, sage and lots of parmesan or pesto alla genovese or bolognese sauce or fresh tomato sauce). Stir slightly and serve.

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Conrad debuts in Shanghai with landmark hotel

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 19, 2021 – The new Conrad-branded hotel boasts superb amenities in an unbeatable location.

Conrad debuts in Shanghai with landmark hotel

A milestone opening

Conrad Shanghai is now welcoming guests into its 66-storey, 728-room space within the prestigious tourism and business district People’s Square, close to many of the city’s biggest attractions. As well as representing a significant achievement for Hilton Worldwide in its own right, the launch further strengthens the company’s partnership with the property’s owning company, Shimao Hotel Management Group.

“We are thrilled to build on our robust luxury growth in Asia Pacific with the launch of the first Conrad in Shanghai, joining our 17 luxury hotels in Greater China with a further ten under construction,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

“Our growth momentum demonstrates the strength and resilience of Hilton’s award-winning luxury brands amidst a dynamic market and sophisticated customer expectations. At the same time, it is a testament to our delivery to our partners, and the 11 trading hotels we have with the prestigious Shimao Hotel Management Group – who share our optimism for China’s luxury travel segment.”

Tyrone Tang, chairman and CEO of Shanghai Shimao Hotel Management Company and CEO of Shimao Star Hotels Group, added: “We are proud to elevate the success of our longstanding partnership with Hilton by bringing the second Conrad Hotels & Resorts property to fruition. Today’s milestone opening of Conrad Shanghai is a celebration of our achievement in our journey together. It also signifies a new chapter for Shimao Festival City that reaffirms its status as the city’s most coveted address.”

Fusing modern design with local tradition

To help create a sense of place, inspiration drawn from Chinese traditions is woven throughout the hotel’s glamorous design. Distinct design details include a Chinese rooftop cornice suspended as a lobby centrepiece, the use of this motif throughout, traditional calligraphy art and a colour palette drawing on the five elements.

Conrad Shanghai’s guestrooms come with smart connectivity, bath products by luxury brand Byredo and floor-to-ceiling windows with views over Puxi and the Bund. And its 60 luxurious suites, including a presidential suite, come with residential touches and access to the level 44 executive lounge.

The dining options here draw on global influences, from the Mediterranean coast to Paris’ bistros and China’s banquets. Cocktails are served with a view at the sky-high lounge and events are hosted in a 2,500 sq m pillarless space, including an 864 sq m ballroom and 13 meeting rooms, as well as Hu’s Penthouse and Hu’s Atelier on the 64th-floor.

“The latest addition to the Conrad portfolio in the heart of Shanghai is a shining example of how we are looking at every opportunity to bring our meaningful hospitality and intuitive service to iconic destinations,” said Nils-Arne Schroeder, global brand head for Conrad Hotels & Resorts and vice president of Luxury & Lifestyle for Hilton in Asia Pacific. “I am confident the bold design and modern sensibilities of Conrad Shanghai, paired with our personalised service, will create enriching experiences that will truly inspire luxury travellers from around the world.”

Source: tophotel

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Turkish Airlines Triumphs with 26th Americas Destination Santiago

Turkish Airlines adds two routes out of Manchester

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

January 20, Turkish Airlines will be operating direct daily flights from Manchester to Antalya starting from April 1st.

Turkish Airlines adds two routes out of Manchester

A new daily route to Dalaman will start the following day.

Resting on the famous Turquoise Coast, Antalya and Dalaman are outstanding resorts that mix Mediterranean fishing villages with natural wonders.

Antalya is characterised by its sandy sweeps of shore that are embraced by a coastline touched by jade waters.

Turkish Airlines has a history of supporting golf in the region.

Osman Battal , Turkish Airlines director in Manchester, said: “With this new route, we are able to respond to our passengers’ demand.

“They can easily and directly reach the unique holiday destinations of Turkey.

“Whether holiday makers or golfing enthusiasts, we are keen to provide all our passengers with unforgettable times with Turkish Airlines.”

Turkish Airlines services five UK airports including London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester.

Karen Smart, managing director at Manchester Airport, said: “It’s great to see Turkish Airlines announce new direct routes from Manchester Airport to two of our most popular holiday destinations in Turkey.

“With a host of airport safety measures in place since the start of the pandemic, the security of all our passengers and staff continues to be our number one priority, as we connect people across the globe.”

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WTTC Global Summit delayed by a month

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, MICE.

January 20 2022 – The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced the Global Summit will now take place in Manila, Philippines, from April 20-22.

WTTC Global Summit delayed by a month

The event had been scheduled for mid-March.

Julia Simpson, WTTC chief executive, said: “As countries around the world begin to unlock the door to travel, we have taken the decision to reschedule our Global Summit by just a few short weeks.

“This will enable more international participants to join us in Manila and help guide and lead the sector as we head towards economic recovery.”

She added: “Our Global Summit is the most influential tourism event in the calendar.

“We are looking forward seeing our members, industry leaders and key government representatives gather in Manila in April to continue our efforts in safely restoring international travel.”

The summit will be hosted in Metro Manila in-person, with a global audience joining virtually.

Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, secretary of the Philippines Department of Tourism, said: “The WTTC Global Summit will be a significant opportunity for us to showcase the preparations that we have put in place for our eventual reopening to international visitors.

“Tourism has always provided us with endless opportunities.

“The reopening of our destinations and borders amid the pandemic is crucial to sustaining the livelihood of the millions who depend on travel and tourism.

“We are looking forward to being your gracious host in Manila as we navigate the next normal in the travel industry.”

Further information such as key speakers will be announced shortly.

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Vueling adds new Spain routes from London Gatwick

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

January 20, Vueling has confirmed it will operate five new routes to Spain from Gatwick this summer as it rebuilds its schedule.

Vueling adds new Spain routes from London Gatwick

The International Airlines Group-owned carrier will now offer a total of 24 direct routes from the United Kingdom to Spain, France and Italy.

Anticipating strong customer demand for travel from the UK to Spain, Vueling will fly to the Andalusian cities of Seville, Granada and Malaga, as well as La Coruña in Galicia and Menorca in the Balearic Islands.

Vueling will serve existing direct routes from London Gatwick to Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Santiago de Compostela, Paris-Orly, Rome and Florence.

The carrier, which operates from a further six UK airports, will continue to operate direct flights from previous seasons such as Cardiff to Malaga, Alicante and Palma de Mallorca, and Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh to Barcelona.

In late 2021, Vueling launched new routes to Paris Orly, following approval by the European Commission for 18 slots as part of the recapitalisation of Air France.

In summer 2022 Vueling will continue to operate flights between Paris and Newcastle, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cardiff.

Carolyn Prowse, chief commercial, strategy and network officer at Vueling, said: “We are very proud to announce the development of our international network from London Gatwick thanks to the coordination with British Airways which enables us to offer the best joint product from London to help grow our markets.

“This is particularly true after two very difficult years for tourism and aviation.

“This commitment from London Gatwick is in addition to our expanded operations from Paris Orly.

“Together, these two initiatives showcase how Vueling aims to help boost international markets this summer.”

Vueling currently has a total of 320 routes on sale, of which more than 220 are international.

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Tallinn welcomes new multifunctional cruise terminal

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 20, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Cruise.

January 20 2022 – Located in the hustle and bustle of the biggest port authority in Estonia, the Port of Tallinn has opened the most modern and multifunctional terminal in the region.

Tallinn welcomes new multifunctional cruise terminal

Beautifully designed to reduce its negative impact on the environment, the sustainable cruise terminal can operate outside of cruise season, making the capital more accessible while reducing its environmental footprint.

A striking feature of the terminal – designed by Salto Architects – is the remarkable use of Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable wood, which was selected for the expansive decking and to clad the imaginative exterior.

The vast scale of the project allows for the terminal to be used to host events, such as concerts and conferences, accommodating up to 2,000 people.

The generous size also means that, even during the peak cruise season, some level of social distancing will be possible if required due to Covid-19.

The new facility is also distinguished by an 850-metre-long promenade, designed to connect the port’s ten million plus passengers each year to the new leisure areas.

Featuring tiered outdoor seating, visitors can enjoy the scenic ocean views at the highest point of the terminal.

Based in Norway, Kebony is a global leader in producing sustainable wood materials, which made it the perfect solution for this innovative project.

It created an elegant exterior which complements both the structural design and the oceanic surroundings.

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Radisson Hotel Philadelphia showcases multimillion-dollar makeover

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 19, 2021 – Philadelphia is celebrating the opening of a newly renovated hotel in the heart of the city.

Radisson Hotel Philadelphia showcases multimillion-dollar makeover

Reimagining Radisson Hotel Philadelphia

Radisson Hotel Philadelphia has successfully emerged from a wide-ranging multimillion-dollar transformation programme. Its 212 guest rooms and suites feature flatscreen TVs with streaming capabilities, mini-fridges and free wifi – while the suites also include kitchenettes and separate seating areas.

The property is conveniently located within the Center City District, close to Philadelphia International Airport and Interstates 76 and 95.

“Developing this property in partnership with Radisson Hotel Group Americas has been a challenging but rewarding process that has totally elevated the quality of service we’re able to deliver to our guests,” said the owners of Watermark Hospitality. “We’re thrilled to reintroduce ourselves to the Philadelphia community and welcome guests new and old to experience the comfort and hospitality synonymous with the Radisson brand.”

What’s in store for guests

The transformation project also introduced an open-concept lobby area, which renovation also brought in Another part of the renovation was a total redesign of the lobby area, which boasts individual check-in pods, a snack shop, and restaurant and bar The Whit Lounge. Plus, there’s a state-of-the-art fitness centre, airport parking, a luggage service, and a new meeting room for corporate guests wishing to host events for up to 275 attendees.

Tom Buoy, interim CEO of Radisson Hotel Group Americas, said: “Philadelphia is a city full of history that attracts a mix of guests from across the US and the world. We are excited to establish a newly renovated property in such a convenient location in south Philadelphia that is sure to keep guests occupied and immersed in the many activities the city has to offer. This opening is yet another milestone in the development of the Radisson brand in a key downtown market.”

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60% of the lakes on earth are located in Canada

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Amazing Facts, Destination news.

Amazing Travel Fact – 60% of the lakes on earth are located in Canada

The second largest country on the planet is home to 60% of the planet’s lakes. Still not amazed? How about we rephrased: the number of lakes in Canada is bigger than the rest of the lakes on the planet combined! The largest lake in Canada is the Great Bear Lake, spreading over 31,153 km² and going as deep as 435 meters.

Amazing right?

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Ryanair adds Menorca route this summer

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

January 19, Ryanair has added an additional route to its summer schedule, with plans to fly from Manchester to Menorca twice a week from May.

The low-cost carrier has resorted over 560 routes this year and opened 16 bases throughout the last 12 months.

Ryanair adds Menorca route this summer

Ryanair is also looking toward the arrival of 65 new Boeing 737 Max planes over the summer, each of which offers four per cent more sears than the existing planes it operates.

Ryanair director of commercial, Jason McGuinness, said: “We are pleased to add this new route to Menorca as part of the UK summer 2022 schedule, offering our customers more amazing European destinations to choose from when planning their long-awaited summer holidays.”

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American Cruise Lines to double capacity with Project Blue

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Cruise.

January 19 2022 – American Cruise Lines has revealed details of Project Blue, a brand-new fleet of go-anywhere ships for the United States market.

American Cruise Lines to double capacity with Project Blue

The company announced plans for 12 identical sister ships.

When completed, they will more than double capacity for domestic coastal cruises with the line.

Featuring an innovative hybrid catamaran design, these distinct boats will have unprecedented near-shore operating versatility.

The new United States-built fleet will operate exclusively in the United States, with a focus on small towns and close-to-home adventures.

Charles Robertson, chief executive of American Cruise Lines, said: “Project Blue started as a design challenge to create a boat small enough for New England harbours and stable enough for the Alaska Inside Passage, with a draft shallow enough for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

“These boats can run almost anywhere, and because there will be 12 of them, they will be deployed all over the United States.”

The Project Blue expansion further reinforces the growing interest in small ship experiences and personalized cruising.

The entire fleet will be built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland.

The first two Project Blue ships are already under construction and are due for delivery in 2023.

Each boat in the Project Blue fleet will accommodate 109 passengers and 50 crew.

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Nobu Hotels to open in Santorini in the spring 2022

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 19, 2021 –Nobu Hospitality has confirmed it first hotel and restaurant in Greece, the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini.

Nobu Hotels to open in Santorini in the spring

The property is scheduled to open in the spring.

Situated on the north-east coast, the boutique hotel houses a signature Nobu Restaurant, full-service spa, fitness facility, dual-level infinity pool and five luxurious pool villas.

Also included are panoramic views of both the Caldera and Aegean Sea from its unique clifftop location in Imerovigli.

Just a ten-minute drive to the charming coastal town of Oia and 20 minutes from Santorini (Thira) International Airport, the hotel is well-positioned along the famed Oia-Fira hiking trail that runs between Oia and Fira.

Nobu Hospitality has entered a long-term management agreement with MonteRock International (MRI), a group with over 25 years of experience in a variety of industries.

Trevor Horwell, chief executive of Nobu Hospitality, commented: “We are very excited to be coming to Santorini and to work with the local community on this exciting project.

“Santorini is one of the most highly regarded destinations in the world with its rare beauty, famed for its distinctive cuisine, whitewashed architecture set with a backdrop of steep cliffs, and dramatic sunsets lighting the sea and sky.

“We look forward to inviting locals and international travellers alike to experience the Nobu lifestyle in this special destination.”

Source: breakingtravelnews

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Marriott to introduce Le Méridien to Penang

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 19, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 19, 2021 – This exciting hotel will further increase Marriott International’s exposure to the fast-growing Malaysian market.

Marriott to introduce Le Méridien to Penang

A growing footprint

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Rackson Hospitality to bring the Le Méridien brand to the island known as the Pearl of The Orient, Penang. Construction is due to begin mid-2022 and the hotel is expected to open in 2026.

Le Méridien’s fifth Malaysian property will be part of the Penang Gateway development, placing it close to Penang International Airport in a mixed-use scheme alongside a residential tower, a medical centre, commercial space and shops.

“We are thrilled to work with Rackson Hospitality to bring the Le Méridien brand to Penang,” said Rivero Delgado, Marriott International’s area vice president for Singapore, Malaysia and The Maldives. “This signing underscores Marriott International’s commitment to further growing its footprint across Malaysia. We are confident that Le Méridien Penang Airport will enhance the hospitality offering on the island and will inspire travellers to explore the world in style, savour the good life and enjoy experiences that offer something more than meets the eye.”

Kelvin Lor, CEO for Rackson Group, added: “We are proud to be associated with such a prestigious brand. This means a lot to us and represents a big leap forward for an up-and-coming developer like us. The hotel building façade will stand out prominently with its interesting design elements.

“It will be almost impossible for business clientele and holidaymakers, both local and international, to miss this landmark upon touching down at the airport. Upon completion of Penang Gateway, I believe it has the potential to become an accessible iconic landmark in the heart of Bayan Lepas that will raise the economic and architectural standards of the city.”

A new lifestyle hub

Le Méridien Penang Airport will be brought to life by SA Architects, taking inspiration from the Paris-born brand’s roots and mid-century design.

The hotel will be home to 186 guestrooms and 14 suites, including a 2,000 sq ft presidential suite, along with an all-day dining restaurant offering European and Asian flavours, a specialty restaurant, a café and Latitude Bar. Also being planned is a club lounge, fitness facilities, a pool area with sundeck, 7,000 sq ft of event space and the brand’s signature Le Méridien Hub, providing a modern take on the traditional hotel lobby by transforming it into a social space.

Source: Tophotel

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Jumeirah Lake Towers welcomes Voco Bonnington Dubai

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 18, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 18, 2021 –

A new addition to IHG’s portfolio, the scheme promises to combine the charm of an individual hotel with the reassurance of a global brand.

Jumeirah Lake Towers welcomes Voco Bonnington Dubai

A growing presence in Dubai

Voco Bonnington Dubai is now welcoming guests at the heart of the Jumeirah Lakes Towers development, just minutes from Dubai Marina and its beaches. It’s the result of a comprehensive rebrand of the former Bonnington Hotel Dubai.

Dennis McGettigan, CEO of Bonnington Hospitality JLT, said: “We are delighted to open the second Voco hotel in south Dubai. Voco is an upscale hotel brand that guarantees guests a stay that’s as individual as it is indulgent, making it the perfect fit for the growing number of travellers visiting the country under the government’s vision.

“Originating from Latin, the name ‘Voco’ means ‘to invite’ or ‘call together’ and that is exactly what our hotel offers guests – access to an abundance of work and meeting spaces at the same time as an array of onsite facilities and amenities for that much-needed me time.”

The Voco hotel experience

Aiming to deliver a modern, stylish and unstuffy hospitality experience, the hotel incorporates brand hallmarks like the signature Voco ‘come on in’ welcome with a quick and simple check-in and locally inspired welcome treat. Dedicated Voco hosts are also on hand throughout guests’ stays as resident experts.

The hotel boasts 208 guestrooms, which have been transformed to take on the signature Voco design concept, integrating details such as cosy bedding made from 100% recycled materials, organic products by Antipodes, smart TVs, executive desks, high-speed wifi and in-room refreshments.

This accommodation is joined by dining experiences such as The Cavendish and Irish pub McGettigan’s, and a leisure deck with swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam rooms, beauty salon and pool bar, along with striking views of the Dubai Marina skyline.

Moreover, Voco Bonnington Dubai caters for business travellers with a collection of meeting rooms for events, conferences and workshops. It’s also situated within easy reach of luxury shops, restaurants, bars and golf courses, the Dubai Expo 2020 site, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s international airports.

Source: Tophotel

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New Disney World hotel to open this year

New Disney World hotel to open in 2022

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 18, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 18, 2021 – An ambitious hospitality scheme at one of Florida’s most famous tourist attractions is nearing completion.

An Official Walt Disney World Hotel in the Sunshine State

which is currently under construction, has started accepting reservations from October 2022 onwards.

A milestone opening

As building work progresses at pace, Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista in the Disney Springs area has announced that it’s now accepting reservations from 27 October 2022 onwards. On opening, this property will become Drury Hotels’ first Official Walt Disney World Hotel and largest hotel to date.

Drawing on seven years in the hotel and hospitality industry, Tom Drury will serve as general manager, with John Branciforte as director of sales. On opening, the hotel will employ 150 full- and part-time staff members.

“We look forward to welcoming guests and providing them with a magical experience,” said Chuck Drury, CEO of Drury Hotels. “Our designation as an Official Walt Disney World Hotel means we have been entrusted to adhere to exceptional service standards. Given our track record of providing award-winning guest service, I know our team’s efforts will delight and impress our guests and visitors.”

The Walt Disney World experience

While the entire project – housing 604 rooms and more than 17,000 sq ft of event space – is expected to complete by spring 2023, only the first 264 rooms will be available in autumn 2022. Amenities being promised at this new hotel include a resort-style pool with splash pad and Lakeside Bar & Grill for poolside dining, a grab-and-go marketplace, a cosy dining venue, and 24-hour business and fitness centres.

The hotel, which can be booked as part of a Walt Disney World Resort package, will provide easy access to the Walt Disney World Theme Parks.

Source: Tophotel

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Virgin Atlantic Launches Thrilling New Destinations 2025

Virgin Atlantic reveals LATAM codeshare deal

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 18, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 18, 2022 -Virgin Atlantic reveals LATAM codeshare deal. Virgin Atlantic has signed a new codeshare agreement with LATAM Airlines, offering customers the opportunity to fly seamlessly to Brazil.

Virgin Atlantic reveals LATAM codeshare deal

Customers booking through Virgin Atlantic are now able to travel from Heathrow direct to São Paulo as well as connecting onwards onto 12 domestic airports in Brazil including Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Florianopolis.

Customers travelling from São Paulo to London Heathrow will also have the option to smoothly connect onto Virgin Atlantic’s rest of world destinations through Terminal 3 including Tel Aviv, Delhi and Hong Kong.

Juha Jarvinen, chief commercial officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented: “We’re incredibly excited to launch this new codeshare partnership with LATAM Airlines.

“As we recover from the pandemic, partnerships are more important than ever, and we look forward to building on the incredibly successful interline relationship we have had in place for a number of years.  

“We also see opportunities beyond Brazil and look forward to expanding our relationship even further to serve destinations throughout South America including Peru and Colombia.

“This new partnership aims to respond to the large, fast-growing demand for leisure travellers looking to enjoy new experiences after a challenging 20 months.

“We know there is pent up demand for long-haul travel, and we look forward to welcoming customers onboard on their way to exploring these exciting and vibrant Brazilian cities.”

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