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W Hotels China – Starts a New Scene with the Debut of W Xiamen

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 4, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel, Restaurant.

November 4, 2021 – W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of W Xiamen. Owned by Powerlong Group, the hotel is set in Xiamen’s trendy, downtown East Business District where sunset reveals an edgy, creative street culture and an upscale dining scene. This makes it the ideal locale for a design-led hotel that provides guests the ultimate insider access to all the design, fashion, fuel and music in its destination.

“Xiamen is a dynamic and highly charged city with a youthful energy and drive that is an ideal fit for the W Hotels brand,” said Tom Jarrold, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our playful and intriguing nature comes to life through immersive art and design, Happenings like live music performances and our Whatever/Whenever service, which we know will be embraced by local creatives and international travelers alike.”

Look + Listen
The hotel’s design by Hirsch Bedner Associates pays tribute to Xiamen’s tropical surroundings, natural beauty of its harbor and its transformation from an industrial port city to a modern music mecca. Here, the mixing of people over millennia has inspired an idiosyncratic culture that embraces wildly varied musical forms and young, rebellious attitudes which W Xiamen captures through show-stopping digital installations and specially commissioned art pieces.

At W the Store, the iconic look of Gaojia opera singers is reimagined as contemporary art, with hypnotic faces rendered in oil paint on curved metal walls. Before stepping into the Living Room (W’s signature take on the lobby), guests find themselves in an electric forest made of neon glass pillars, their hushed stillness contrasted with sudden bursts of flute notes played every time guests approach the lobby centerpiece — an interactive art piece inspired by the musical instruments displayed at a local organ museum.

Among the highlights of W Xiamen’s 293 guest rooms and suites are feature walls that use digitally rendered artworks to bring the city’s tropical nature indoors by means of RGB (red-green-blue) illustrations that work as a color puzzle with pieces falling into place once the ambient light shifts from one color to the next, as well as consoles and coffee tables inspired by Bo Bing, a popular local dice game. The Extreme WOW Suite is a 262-square-meter contemporary art-filled venue that sets the scene for private parties. An expansive entertainment area is anchored by a plush L-shaped sofa, and the suite’s party trick activates with a flick of a switch, amping up the drama with underwater ripples across the room.

Touch + Taste
W Xiamen’s four distinctive dining concepts are set to captivate travelers and locals with innovative fare and eclectic beverage offerings. At HEAT, the destination bar by WET (the pool), music curator Marc Lussier spins as guests sip on Champagne in a hot tub. On the menu are modern street food-inspired bar bites and cocktails that pay homage to the island’s ancient Amoy heritage. Nestled within the lobby-level Living Room is SOUNDSCAPE, a socially-responsible community hub to recharge with organic brews and healthy beverages to the soundtrack of W-curated music.

Thrill-seekers can dive into a fusion of Cantonese and Minnan flavors at MIN YEN, which hosts private Cognac tastings paired with mystery menus. For all-day dining, all roads lead to NINE, an upscale food hall by day with nine interactive stations that tempt with fresh baked goods and handmade noodles during the day. At night, NINE serves premium steaks and seafood. In the afternoons, a sophisticated HI TEA @ NINE highlights Fujian’s tea culture with a selection of rare infusions, along with customized craft beers.

GATHER
The hotel’s 1,000 square-meter Great Room with avant-garde art and cutting-edge technology features a 110-square-meter LED screen, the largest in the city, to create events like no other. Color-changing starburst ceiling bulbs add extra sparkle to every celebration. W Xiamen also offers highly customizable Studios for smaller events with décor featuring floral resin tables and abstract oil paintings, a reminder that art and commerce often go hand in hand.

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ME hotel Barcelona opens its doors on November 25th

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 3, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 3, 2021 – Located at the heart of the city, on Passeig de Gràcia, ME Barcelona opens its doors on November 25th, becoming the key opening of the season in the contemporary luxury hotel sector

Designers such as Ronan & Ewan Bouroullec, Patricia Urquiola and Jaime Hayón provide their signature touch with their furniture and decoration pieces. Three different gastronomic concepts, a pool on the top floor, wide event spaces and a large interior garden functioning as a green lung in the city are only some of the surprises the hotel has in place for its guests

Comprised of 164 rooms and suites distributed across 14 floors, a total surface of 12.649m2 of which over 3000m2 are open-air spaces, the hotel also offers an impressive patio terrace and an urban vegetable garden

Located near the charismatic and beautiful Casa Rocamora, this grand hotel situates itself among the newest sociocultural hotspots in Barcelona. Innovation, technology, local art and music are an essential part of a strong identity that radiates the energy and creativity of its ancestors in Dubai, Milan, London, Madrid or Ibiza, which have become benchmarks in luxury hospitality at their destination.

Along the same lines, ME Barcelona positions itself as a cultural and artistic catalyzer in the Catalan capital, becoming a meeting point and nexus for local and international talents. With its opening, the hotel transforms the hospitality landscape of Barcelona and sets new standards in the current definition of a luxury hotel, closer to creative spheres and creating personalized bespoke experiences for its guests.

On November 25th, ME Barcelona will be inaugurated, the first five-star hotel of the brand that opens in Barcelona since 2008, and which joins the one that Meliá Hotels International already has in Catalonia: ME Sitges Terramar.

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A new hotel, Marijani Beach Resort, and Spa is set to open in Zanzibar

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 3, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 3, 2021 – Opens on November 15th: Soaring palms and lush greenery welcome you to Marijani Beach Resort & Spa. Located on Pwani Mchangani, the hotel with 82 villa-style rooms is beautifully decorated, with elegance and tranquility. Guests have 4 room types to choose from, depending on your accommodation requirements. As a guest of the resort, you can:

Relax in a variety of room types and accommodations, with all featuring private balconies
Dine on international and local dishes in the whitewashed courtyard of the resort’s restaurant
Spend a day relaxing poolside while nibbling on light bites and drinks from the pool deck bar
Explore the surrounding area, including local villages offering handcrafted keepsakes and art

Combining the calm and quiet of a beachside stay just a short drive from tropical jungle where rare Zanzibar Red Columbus Monkeys roam, Marijani Beach Resort & Spa provides experienced and novice visitors to Africa’s East Coast with the perfect location from which to set out and explore the region’s remarkable people, history, and environment.

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Hyatt Completes Acquisition of Apple Leisure Group

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 3, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 3, 2021 – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that Hyatt has completed the previously announced acquisition of Apple Leisure Group® (ALG), a leading luxury resort-management services, travel and hospitality group, from affiliates of each of KKR and KSL Capital Partners, LLC.

Hyatt is doubling its global resorts footprint through the addition of ALG’s AMR™ Collection brand portfolio, which comprises approximately 100 hotels and resorts operating in 10 countries, as well as a pipeline of 24 executed deals in the Americas and Europe. As a result, Hyatt now offers one of the largest collections of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world, including new destinations for Hyatt such as Acapulco, Curaçao, the Canary Islands, Menorca and St. Martin. Through this acquisition, Hyatt has added properties in 11 new European markets and expanded its European brand footprint by 60%, strengthening Hyatt’s growth potential in a critical region for global leisure travel demand.

Dreams Las Mareas Resort and Spa
Secrets Mallorca Villamil Resort and Spa

In addition, Hyatt is offering even more options and experiences for its high-end guest and customer base and enhancing the end-to-end leisure travel experience through:

Unlimited Vacation Club® by AMR™ Collection, an exclusive membership club whose members enjoy preferred rates and other benefits at participating AMR™ Collection properties
ALG Vacations®, one of the largest packaged vacation providers and leisure travel distribution platforms in North America serving the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean
Amstar, a leading destination services management company
Trisept Solutions®, a unique leisure travel technology platform

Hyatt is determining ways in which the World of Hyatt® loyalty program and ALG’s Unlimited Vacation Club® can bring added value and unique loyalty benefits to their respective member bases. Hyatt plans to integrate the AMR™ Collection into World of Hyatt in 2022 so that members can earn and redeem World of Hyatt points at more than 100 AMR™ Collection hotels and resorts.

“Hyatt’s acquisition of ALG represents a brand-defining moment in our more than 60-year history and builds on our legacy as a hospitality leader,” said Mark Hoplamazian, president and chief executive officer, Hyatt. “Hyatt and ALG have highly complementary brand portfolios and share a deep commitment to colleague and guest experiences focused on care. Having first entered the fast-growing luxury all-inclusive space in 2013, we are ideally positioned to capture the significant and rising demand for leisure travel and extend the world-class hospitality we provide to a wide range of new travelers. We are excited to welcome the ALG team to the Hyatt family, and look forward to working together to achieve new levels of growth and value creation for all stakeholders – including our shareholders, owners, customers, guests, members and colleagues.”

“Today marks the beginning of ALG’s next chapter, in which we will continue to build on the strong loyalty and reputation we have established through our luxury travel brands and services, now as part of Hyatt,” said Alejandro Reynal, chief executive officer and president, Apple Leisure Group. “We strongly believe we can achieve more together and are excited by the opportunities ahead for our expanded family, including our ALG team members, who are excited to join a larger global organization. With Hyatt’s added expertise, we expect to accelerate our expansion as we welcome more travelers and turn vacation dreams into life-long memories.”

ALG’s business will continue to be led by Alejandro Reynal and the current ALG leadership team. ALG will operate as a distinct business unit within Hyatt. Mr. Reynal has joined Hyatt’s executive leadership team and reports to Mr. Hoplamazian.

In September of 2021, Hyatt fulfilled its asset disposition commitment announced in 2019 of $1.5 billion resulting in a total of more than $3 billion of proceeds realized since its asset-disposition strategy was launched in 2017, at a combined multiple of over 17x EBITDA. Hyatt also reaffirms its commitment to generate an additional $2 billion in proceeds from asset dispositions by the end of 2024.

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Scandic Hamburger Börs now open

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 2, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 2, 2021 – In 2017, Scandic signed an agreement with property owner LähiTapiola to operate a hotel in the iconic Hamburger Börs building in downtown Turku, Finland. And after a comprehensive two-year restauration, Scandic Hamburger Börs has finally opened its doors and the first guests have already checked in to many of its 272 hotel rooms. The hotel is located just opposite Market Square in central Turku and it will now continue its tradition of providing unforgettable hotel and dining experiences as it has since 1894.

Scandic Hamburger Börs celebrated its grand opening on Monday morning with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Minna Arve, Mayor of Turku, Olli Aakula, representative from LähiTapiola, Aki Käyhkö, Country Head of Scandic Finland, and Mikko Henriksson, General Manager of Scandic Hamburger Börs.

– We’re thrilled to be able give this historic Turku hotel a third lease on life. Turku is an important tourist destination for Finland and there is great interest in visiting the city from domestic and international tourists alike. For leisure travelers, Turku is an interesting destination as well as a gateway to the Finnish archipelago. It’s also a fairway for international cruise traffic and important passenger and cargo traffic to and from Sweden, says Aki Käyhkö, Head of Scandic Finland.

Scandic Hamburger Börs has opened just ahead of the upcoming holidays. The banquet and events section of the hotel is housed in the building’s Art Nouveau wing that flows seamlessly into the hotel’s modern architecture and offers guests a convenient walkway between conference facilities and hotel rooms.

– It’s fantastic to finally open Scandic Hamburger Börs. We’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of interest in the hotel even before it opened. Our hotel rooms are almost sold out on weekends in November and December and we can see a pent-up need to stay on weekdays as well. Now we will work hard to provide as great a guest experience as possible so that going forward, we’ll have a full hotel every day of the week, says Mikko Henriksson, General Manager of the newly opened Scandic Hamburger Börs.

The hotel’s new restaurant, Más, which is located on the street level, will add a touch of Spanish flair to Turku with its Iberian-inspired dishes and tapas. And the Börs Roof Bar will offer a vibrant atmosphere, refreshing cocktails and the best views of Turku from the 9th floor. Scandic Hamburger Börs was designed by Schauman Architects and the property is already greatly admired for its classy exterior. Guests staying in the hotel’s 272 rooms will be able to enjoy a good night’s sleep in comfortable standard rooms, spacious superior rooms or magnificent junior suites with arched windows facing the Market Square.

– The interior design of the rooms could be called Scandinavian style, but instead of simple, lighter colors, we’ve used warm, comforting tones to create a relaxed atmosphere, says Jaakko Puro, Interior Design Architect at Puroplan Oy.

Scandic Hamburger Börs

Property owner: LähiTapiola
Construction and restauration: YIT
Original building from 1885, addition in 1904, renovation in 2021
New build, 2021: Janne Helsin, Schauman Architects
Interior design: Jaakko Puro, Puroplan Oy
Number of rooms: 272
Más Restaurant & Bar (street level), 300 seats
Börs Katto rooftop bar on the 9th floor, 70 seats
Börs Pöheikkö restaurant on terrace, 100 seats
8 meeting and banquet halls
Gym & sauna
25 parking spots

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Thompson Central Park New York Debuts in Midtown Manhattan

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 2, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 2, 2021 – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Thompson Central Park New York from award-winning lifestyle hospitality brand, Thompson Hotels. Located steps from the southern edge of Central Park on West 56th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, Thompson Central Park New York opens in the former space of the Parker New York.

Thompson Central Park New York welcomes hotel guests to newly designed interiors, including a redesigned lobby, public spaces and 587 sophisticated, contemporary guestrooms and suites including the 174-room highly anticipated Upper Stories, a collection of luxurious accommodations offering expansive views, high-end amenities and exclusive offerings and programming, including access to the private Upper Stories Lounge. Today’s opening also includes the return of beloved culinary hotspot, Burger Joint, and the introduction of new cocktail bar, Standing Room Only. The hotel’s grand opening will culminate in Spring 2022, with the arrival of more soon-to-be announced dining destinations, intimate event space and the opening of Upper Stories.

Lobby
Deluxe King Guestroom

Thompson Central Park New York features stunning public spaces designed by architect Thomas Juul-Hansen and guestrooms designed by Stonehill Taylor. The property is poised to redefine the New York City experience for sophisticated, contemporary travelers. Guestroom artwork and programming will be music-centric as a nod to the hotel’s history as a home to many musicians and actors who played at New York City top music venues.

“We’re honored to introduce the world to Thompson Central Park New York and welcome travelers to a stunning new hotel in the heart of New York City,” said Matt Slippoy, general manager, Thompson Central Park New York. “Together with our partners across design, culinary, retail and more, we’re thrilled to provide New Yorkers and travelers with an unparalleled hospitality experience steps from Central Park and iconic cultural institutions, performing arts theaters, Broadway and more of what makes New York City a world-class destination.”

Contemporary Design with Expansive City Views

In designing the hotel’s public areas, Thomas Juul-Hansen sought to create a sophisticated, inviting and modern introduction to Thompson Central Park New York, leveraging the iconic history of this landmark building. Guests are greeted in the lobby by massive wood clad portals leading to an organic shaped wood and leather reception desk, with intimate seating just beyond. The impressive central atrium features 36’ high ceilings with a massive central skylight and curated space for food and drinks below. Debuting in Spring 2022, a vaulted bar space connecting the atrium to both 56^th and 57^th streets will be lined with wood finishes and capped by a massive, suspended canopy of foliage. Each space throughout the hotel is highlighted by bespoke lighting along with a curated collection of artworks inspired by the rich heritage of the storied neighborhood.

“When walking into Thompson Central Park New York, hotel guests are greeted with a sensory experience,” said Thomas Juul-Hansen. “From the building’s classic exterior to the luxurious, newly designed modern lobby space and atrium, we have created a bespoke atmosphere for travelers to connect with the iconic style and dazzling glamour of Manhattan.”

Thompson Central Park New York partnered with Stonehill Taylor to design the hotel’s 587 guest rooms and suites, as well as guest corridors. The renowned architecture and design firm incorporated design elements to accommodate work and play, boasting elevated finishes and unexpected details. Linear and curving forms live side by side throughout the storage and sleeping areas, as well as the social and workspaces. Crisp white duvets top the navy-blue leather beds, and headboards nestle against ribbed wall detailing. A geometric etagere supports sculptural lighting and texture-providing bric-a-brac while adding structural interest to the space. Double-bay rooms feature a swivel TV, allowing guests to comfortably rotate entertainment to face sleeping and living areas. While walls and floors are finished in neutral earth tones, jewel tones pop throughout the furnishings.

Along the corridors, Stonehill Taylor incorporated balance between opposites to drive the design – from geometric designs in the carpet juxtaposed against light and dark elements, to arched mirrors along the elevator lobbies to reflect light and add depth. In Spring 2022, Thompson Central Park New York will debut The Upper Stories, a collection of 174 high-floor guestrooms with unrivaled views of Central Park, impeccable amenities and unparalleled guest experiences.

“With sophisticated travelers in mind, Thompson Central Park New York’s well-appointed accommodations feature classical elements utilized in sculptural, modern ways,” said Bethany Gale, senior interiors associate, Stonehill Taylor. “From the functionality of the space to the jewel and earth tones, guests will find unexpected yet balanced choices, contributing to a remarkable hotel stay experience.”

Dazzling Culinary Offerings

Burger Joint, a hidden gem and “speakeasy” space, returns to offer up one of New York’s top-rated burgers and fries. The property is also unveiling SRO (Standing Room Only), an intimate lobby bar that will serve hotel guests and visitors carefully-crafted cocktails, rare and organic wines and mocktails in a spirited setting, creating the perfect spot to meet and mingle.

Beginning November 1, the delectably curated in-room dining menu provides hotel guests with a mix of healthy and indulgent culinary options from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. In Spring 2022, the property will introduce an array of signature restaurants, further elevating the property as a dining destination in Midtown Manhattan.

Thompson Central Park New York is part of Thompson Hotels brand’s New York City footprint, joining the collection’s celebrated properties in Lower Manhattan, The Beekman and Gild Hall. One of five Thompson Hotels properties expected to open across the U.S. this year, Thompson Central Park New York’s opening further amplifies the brand’s promise to provide guests with the ultimate “in-the-know” experience at the sophisticated edge of travel.

Guestrooms at Thompson Central Park New York start at an introductory rate of $420 per night. For more information on the hotel’s opening, and to book your stay today, please visit: http://www.thompsoncentralpark.com.

Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt’s multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhances its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt’s commitment can be found here: hyatt.com/care-and-cleanliness.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information:

About Thompson Hotels

Founded in 2001, Thompson Hotels is an award-winning boutique lifestyle hospitality brand with a collection of stunning, dynamic properties. Each of Thompson Hotels’ urban and resort locations offer a carefully layered environment that molds into its surrounding community. Guests are provided tailored stays with connections to world-class culinary offerings, arts and entertainment, and groundbreaking design. The Thompson portfolio of lifestyle hotels includes The Beekman and Gild Hall in New York City; Thompson Washington D.C.; Thompson Nashville; Thompson Seattle; Thompson Chicago; The Cape in Los Cabos, Mexico and Thompson Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya, Mexico; Thompson Zihuatanejo on Mexico’s Pacific Coast; and the new Texas hotels, Thompson Dallas, Thompson San Antonio, as well as Thompson Savannah and Thompson Hollywood. Hotels currently under development include Texas properties in Austin and Houston, as well as Thompson Denver, and Thompson Buckhead. Follow @ThompsonHotels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for news and updates. For more information, please visit www.thompsonhotels.com.

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The David Kempinski Tel Aviv To Officially Open in February 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on November 1, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

November 1, 2021 – Kempinski Hotels announces the long-anticipated opening of The David Kempinski Tel Aviv, the luxury hospitality brand’s 80th global opening and first property in Israel. Housed in the newest skyscraper erected along the city’s iconic Mediterranean Sea promenade, the 250-room-and-suite property is set to open to guests in February 2022, fresh upon the opening of Israel’s international borders to tourism.

Centrally located across the street from the seaside boardwalk and promenade, and within walking distance to the city’s famed outdoor food markets and dynamic urban center, The David Kempinski Tel Aviv stretches over 34-stories in a seaside skyscraper that was built by Feigin Architects with interior design spearheaded by Ara Design. Unique for an urban resort, each of the 250 guest rooms and suites at The David Kempinski Tel Aviv feature views of the Mediterranean Sea, with sliding glass doors that allow guests to soak up the plein soleil of the region. Amongst the highlights of The David Kempinski Tel Aviv are 56 suites of unprecedented grandeur, including the property’s triplex-penthouse suite, the largest of its kind in Tel Aviv, spanning more than 4,000-square-feet, including 1200-square-foot rooftop terrace and infinity pool melting into the coastline. Guests of the hotel’s top 14 suites will have exclusive access to the 34th floor outdoor lounge that is open during the warm spring, summer and autumn months, and boasts a private rooftop pool, relaxation area with sunbeds and cabanas, and a fully-serviced lounge restaurant and bar.

At night, the 34th floor lounge will also transform to Cloud51, a buzzy nightlife experience with libations and tapas (opening April 2022).

Adding to the city’s legendary gastronomic scene, The David Kempinski Tel Aviv will feature five dining venues spread across multiple floors of the property, each with their own unique atmosphere and decor. Executive Chef Mor Cohen, a World Luxury Restaurants Award-winner specializing in gourmet Kosher cuisine, will helm the property’s F&B program, including Sereia Restaurant & Lounge, a high-end Kosher fish restaurant with an outstanding selection. The hotel’s infinity pool deck will feature a full-day menu and bar while the lobby entertainment will offer a two-in-one concept with The Common Bar, a Cohiba Atmosphere-branded cigar bar and Israel’s first House of Macallan whisky bar.

Set in the heart of the “tayelet” (as Tel Aviv’s boardwalk is locally referred to in Hebrew), The David Kempinski is steps away from the outdoor sport and water activities the city offers, from standup paddleboarding and surf lessons to bike and scooter rentals and rooftop yoga curated by the hotel. Guy Klaiman, General Manager of The David Kempinski Tel Aviv states that “Our goal is to create a warm community and become a home base in Tel Aviv for families visiting Israel. The David Kempinski Tel Aviv is the new central hub along the beach, combining the finest of a beach vacation and cultural urban experience.”

In addition to the entertainment and culinary offerings, the hotel includes a full-service spa with 11 treatment rooms, a fully-equipped gym, a sauna and a relaxation area. Manicure, pedicure and hair salon appointments can be arranged in-house with the hotel’s team of seasoned professional stylists. The David Kempinski Tel Aviv tower features a state-of-the-art meeting and banquet space that can accommodate up to 500 guests, creating a new venue for destination weddings, large conferences, business meetings, and holiday celebrations.

Rack rates at The David Kempinski Tel Aviv starting at $550USD.

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4 Things to Know Before Your First Trip to the Maldives

Written by Gill Dewar on October 29, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Activity, Hotel.

Luxurious bungalows, electric-blue seas, and blissed-out vibes: What’s not to love? “The Maldives have been at the top of our clients’ bucket lists for the past ten years,” says Judy Stein, president of the Stein Collective by Ovation Travel and a member of T+L’s Travel Advisory Board.

But what has always been a “maybe someday” kind of trip turned into a “why not now?” experience over the past year, when the Maldives became one of the first countries to reopen its borders during the pandemic. Americans have been free to visit the more than 150 private-island resorts in the archipelago since July. And while the price tag for these escapes hasn’t changed — most visitors should budget at least $800 a day just for the room — there’s an ever-growing range of options for those willing to make the long-haul trip. Get the most out of your stay with this advice.

Skip the flight and take a boat.

Travelers arrive at Velana International Airport near the capital, Malé, and many private-island resorts offer the choice of transferring by boat or seaplane. While the puddle-jumper flight sounds quick — and the views from the air are incredible — it’s actually the more time-consuming option, because seaplanes depart from a different airport. Instead, opt for the boat transfer. Getting to the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, for example, takes just 40 minutes aboard the property’s yacht. The speedboat ride to Gili Lankanfushi is like a dreamy Robinson Crusoe–style villas, takes 20 minutes. And the barefoot-luxury One&Only Reethi Rah is 45 minutes from the airport by sea.

Bring the family.

Many people think of the Maldives as being only for couples, but a number of resorts are geared to families with kids and teens. Soneva Fushi has the largest and arguably best kids’ club in the country, complete with a Lego room and countless things to do, including surfing lessons and stargazing at the hotel’s observatory. The kids’ club at Lux* South Ari Atoll Resorts & Villas has a pirate-themed pool exclusively for young ones, plus island-wide treasure hunts.

Consider spending points, not dollars.

If you’ve been stockpiling points during the past year, this might be a good time to cash in. Villas at the stylish new JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa start at 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, depending on the season. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is also available for as little as 85,000 Bonvoy points a night, depending on when you go. And stays at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi can be had for 120,000 Hilton Honors points per night — with the fifth night free.

With some of the most over-the-top accommodations you’ll find anywhere in the world, the Maldives is an ideal place for a splurge. Soneva Jani is one of the nation’s most luxurious resorts, with massive new overwater villas complete with waterslides. Joali brings the wow factor with palatial villas featuring private pools. Cheval Blanc Randheli, a sister property to the LVMH resort in St. Bart’s, has 45 private villas — including a four-bedroom jaw-dropper on its own 2½-acre atoll. And the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to the crown jewel of the Maldives, the Muraka residence, with its incredible underwater bedroom, fitted with a see-through domed ceiling for watching marine life swim past.

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These 3 Gorgeous Islands Offer the Ultimate Luxury: Total Privacy

Written by Gill Dewar on October 29, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Activity, Hotel.

29 October 2021

Sometimes even a digital detox isn’t enough — you need solitude and silence. From the Indonesian archipelago to the lochs of Scotland to the middle of the Indian Ocean, these new and improved secluded island retreats give you the chance to get away from it all.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

The barefoot pilot of our 10-seater could hardly wait to jump into the ocean. We’d just landed after the 80-minute flight from Singapore to Bawah Reserve, when I saw him scurry down the jetty. How could we blame him, given the unreal turquoise that beckoned?

But guests at Bawah Reserve — a resort on Pulau Bawah, one of six islands in an archipelago between Borneo and the Malay Peninsula — don’t have to rush. There, you’re invited to take your time. (In fact, the resort sets its clocks an hour ahead of the rest of western Indonesia, to sync cocktail hour with the sunset.)

Until recently, Pulau Bawah, part of the larger Anambas Island chain, was threatened by illegal dynamite fishing. After the resort, which opened early last year, took on the stewardship of Pulau Bawah’s three mirrorlike lagoons, it prohibited ships from anchoring near their fragile reefs.

The resort has 36 villas made of bamboo and recycled wood; 11 stand directly over the water. They combine the advantages of alfresco living — including unencumbered views of the ocean and, in some cases, retractable canvas walls — with air-conditioning, solar-heated showers, and Wi-Fi.

Of course, the ocean is the reserve’s biggest draw. On the last day of my three-day visit I waded into the warm sea and found myself surrounded by darting parrotfish, giant clams, and bluespotted ribbontail rays. I lingered — until it was time to board the plane and return to the outside world.

Eilean Shona, Scotland

Clouds cocooned Loch Moidart as our small boat chugged to Eilean Shona, a private island off the western coast of Scotland. Owned by Vanessa Branson, Sir Richard’s sister, this forest-fringed and bracken-blanketed 1,260-acre complex of cottage rentals — including the newly revamped Shepherd’s Cottage, where I stayed — is the stuff of childhood fantasies. In fact, Peter Pan author J. M. Barrie spent a holiday here in the 1920s and was captivated by what he described in a letter as the “wild rocky romantic island.” There are no roads, just a spiderweb of paths, mossy mounds, and heather-covered hills. It’s a place to scrabble over boulders and picnic on the sand. Sea eagles wheel overhead, while otters and seals bask on the rocks.

There’s a rambling main house that sleeps 20 and can be rented with or without a chef. For smaller groups or solo travelers, there are eight cottages, hidden in the woods or on sheltered bays. Shepherd’s Cottage is a 45-minute walk along the coast from the disembarkation point. “You can’t get lost,” Paul Waddington, the estate manager, said with a smile as we clambered out of the boat. “Just follow the path.” Along the track, I passed a shed that had been transformed into a cozy game room, with old sofas, books, and table tennis. It’s also the only place to get Wi-Fi on the island; there are pockets of cell phone reception, but this is a place to log off. Guests bring their own provisions, although there is a shop open for a couple of hours each week where you can stock up on venison casserole and fish pie.

As I rounded a bend, Shepherd’s Cottage came into sight, a tiny stone bolt-hole with views to the islands of Rum and Eigg. Since there was no electricity in my cottage, lighting was by gas lamp. A coal stove provided heat and hot water, while the range and fridge were gas-powered. Bright rugs were scattered over the dark wood floors, and modern art hung on the walls. The huge, marshmallow-soft bed was warmed by hot water bottles and covered with a furry throw. There was a romantic Victorian-style roll-top tub for long, hot soaks in water tinted an earthy brown by the peat.

I spent my days exploring: hiking along the coast, poking around ruined cottages, sailing to Shoe Bay, watching red deer graze at my door in the morning. Each night I curled up in front of the fire. The world felt far away, so this island became a far-flung kingdom, its secrets mine to discover.

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island

There’s only one resort on Desroches, a sliver of coral in the Indian Ocean, but technically the island isn’t private. It’s shared by the hotel and two villages, and the interactions between them are a large part of what makes it such a distinctive escape.

Desroches, part of the Seychelles’ little-visited Amirantes Group, is a 35-minute flight from the main island of Mahé. The Four Seasons resort, which opened last March after a complete overhaul of a preexisting property, is a cushy base for checking out the island’s 933 acres. Each guest gets a bicycle, and I pedaled mine along forest pathways, personalized picnic basket in tow, en route to my own private stretch of coastline.

Having the run of the place also means an array of unique activities, including yoga sessions on the very runway where your flight from Mahé lands and family movie nights under the stars. The staff may also surprise you with a treasure hunt. Mine began with a riddle at breakfast directing me to “look up for something that doesn’t belong” at Madame Zabre beach (it was a pineapple), with further clues leading to the discovery of a coconut outside the spa and a bottle of rum tucked into my suite’s hammock. Later, I got to put these treasures to use in a private mixology class atop a lighthouse.

Ranging from one-room bungalows and larger suites to group-friendly villas with up to seven bedrooms, the accommodations have an upscale beach-house vibe: rattan furniture, vintage explorer-inspired curios, outdoor showers. All have plunge pools and direct beach access, while the suites also feature hammocks and thatched-roof cabanas. When you do feel like leaving your room, the public areas — a swimming pool, lounges and restaurants, and a seaside spa — rarely feel crowded.

Balancing all this privacy is the world just outside the resort. The two communities — one Indian, one Creole — have a combined population of about 100. Some residents work for the hotel, while others make furniture or farm. Guests can visit the villages to meet the locals, learn about their crafts, and even cheer on the teams at their weekly cricket matches. Guests can also feed Aldabra giant tortoises at a sanctuary and breeding center operated by the Island Conservation Society, which focuses on land restoration and wildlife protection.

Back at the resort, the marine educators of the Discovery Centre guide visitors on snorkeling trips that reveal the aquatic wonders in the region, which is too remote to be affected by commercial fishing. This access to unspoiled nature is perhaps the most luxurious part of staying on Desroches — and the biggest benefit of this island’s version of going private.

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The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Mexico City

Written by Traveltalksteam on October 29, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 29, 2021 – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is excited to announce the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, providing discerning travelers with a new way to discover one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Transforming the city’s skyline and sitting amongst the country’s tallest buildings, the hotel is centrally located along the iconic Paseo de Reforma and showcases uninterrupted views of the famed Chapultepec Park. Featuring the legendary service of the brand’s Ladies and Gentlemen, each detail of the hotel is thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the city’s rich culture and offer a unique perspective on this beloved destination.

“We are thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Mexico City, exemplifying our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and creating meaningful memories in the world’s most exciting markets,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Whether enjoying a hotel tour with a local historian to be immersed into the Mexican rituals and celebrations that inspired the hotel design, or allowing our Ladies and Gentlemen to curate a day of exploration in the city, we are excited to provide both guests and locals with a unique lens on this incredible destination.”

Soaring 58-stories high, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City is located in a stunning building concepted by Taller G and features 153 guest rooms and suites. Capitalizing on its enviable location and views, a double glass façade provides unique open-air terraces, inviting guests to discover a new perspective on the enchanting city. The interiors, designed by Chapi Chapo Design, were created to serve as a looking glass into Mexico City’s dynamic past, present, and future. Paying homage to the city’s profound influence on the surrealist art movement, the hotel embraces the way famed Mexican artists like Frida Kahlo, Gunther Gerzso and Leonora Carrington celebrated their indigenous roots and broke away from colonial influences. At The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, the use of metals, mirrors and glass serve to reflect the exterior into the interior, creating a surrealist experience by playing with perspective and distorting the surrounding, traditional architecture. While a neutral color palette invokes a sense of calm, shades of smokey ash, deep blues, and metallic fibers are woven in throughout the hotel as a nod to Mexican storytelling and folklore.

“The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City will act as a literal and figurative gateway along the Paseo de Reforma, welcoming and encouraging guests to learn about the colorful history, dynamic present and bright future of Mexico City,” stated Luis Lopez, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City. “The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City are eager to welcome our guests and accompany them on a memorable journey during their stay.”

Featuring unparalleled service, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City celebrates legendary Mexican hospitality and offers guests a highly personalized experience. The hotel features a wide range of carefully curated amenities designed for cultural discovery and epicurean adventures or business travel, including The Ritz-Carlton Club® Lounge with an exclusive Club Concierge, a heated indoor swimming pool, large fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa with six luxurious treatment rooms. Bringing the destination to life in a unique way, The Ritz-Carlton Spa thoughtfully sources local ingredients and botanicals, which are then coupled with the healing and spiritual traditions of Mexico City’s Aztec culture. In addition to relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, the spa features an assortment of wellness areas, including steam rooms, saunas, and a timeless capsule room.

Dining at Samos, the Mediterranean inspired restaurant on the 38^th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, guests can enjoy cuisine featuring dynamic local flavors for a one-of-a-kind experience. Bringing vast luxury experience and expertise in Mexican, Italian, French, Peruvian and Argentinian cuisines, Chef Jonathan Felix has carefully created each dish to offer a culinary journey where flavors and sensations are elevated with every bite. The epicurean experiences continue through the dessert course with delicate sweets like Nido, an airy mango and passion fruit mousse encased in white chocolate and cradled by a spun sugar nest.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City also offers more than 4,300 square feet of meeting space with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Chapultepec Park, ideally suited for a variety of events from meetings to celebratory occasions. The spaces have been designed to foster inspiration and connection whether a large gathering in the ballroom or an intimate board meeting.

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Nine International Hotel Brands cooperate for the Red Sea Development Project

Written by Traveltalksteam on October 28, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 28, 2021 – The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has announced the signing of nine hotel management agreements with international hotel brands to operate resorts in the first phase of development at The Red Sea Project.

The agreements were unveiled on Day 2 of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) 2021, with the collection of hospitality brands set to operate nine of the 16 properties currently under development in the first phase and collectively feature more than 1,700 hotel keys of the total 3000 planned for Phase One.

These include EDITION Hotels and St Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International; Fairmont Hotel & Resorts, Raffles Hotels & Resorts and SLS Hotels & Residences, part of global hospitality group Accor; Grand Hyatt, part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation; Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts and Six Senses, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts; and Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, a global luxury hospitality company.

Saudi Arabia is accelerating its development of a new tourism offering in the Kingdom, fueled by the ambitious Vision 2030 program. We are proud to unveil our collection of unique and diverse hospitality brands that cater to this growing market and underpin our commitment to creating a world-leading barefoot luxury destination which will soon serve as a gateway to one of the last undiscovered places on the planet, said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

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The AMANO Group to Open First London Hotel in 2022

Written by Gill Dewar on October 28, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 28, 2021

Berlin-based AMANO Group will be opening its first international outpost in spring 2022. Hotel AMANO Covent Garden promises to bring the cool and vibrant energy of Berlin to the heart of London. Located on Covent Garden’s Drury Lane, the new boutique lifestyle hotel is the first of multiple AMANO hotels set to open in London.

With a wealth of tourist hotspots on its doorstep, like the recently renovated Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Hotel AMANO Covent Garden says it will make a great base for solo and business travelers, couples, and families wanting to explore the capital. Guests can choose from three room categories (Cosy, Comfy and Roomy) to suit a range of budgets. Throughout the property, expect dark moody tones and design features from London-based design studio, Woods Bagot, the lead architect and interior designer behind the new opening.

The AMANO Group currently owns 10 hotels, including eight in Berlin, one in Düsseldorf and one in Munich. Leipzig and London are under construction, plus three more hotels in Hamburg and Munich are in the planning stages. Established in 2009, The AMANO Group has the aspiration of designing hotels that do not act as foreign objects of tourism but are integrated into the city’s cultural life. As a result, all its establishments pursue the following philosophy: Sophisticated urban living in a central location at a fair price. This includes an interior design décor and level of service that surpass the three-star standard.

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Wyndham signs 12-property deal with CLC World Resorts

Written by Gill Dewar on October 27, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 27, 2021

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and CLC World Resorts & Hotels have announced plans to brand 12 properties in key leisure destinations.

The deal includes hotels in Spain, Canary Islands, Turkey, UK and Austria.

Expected to open in November, the properties will be converted into Wyndham Grand Residences, Wyndham Residences, Wyndham, Ramada Residences by Wyndham and Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham.

The new additions will further expand Wyndham’s portfolio of over 300 hotels across Europe, adding more sought-after destinations including Turkey’s Aegean coast, Spain’s Costa del Sol, the beautiful island of Tenerife, secluded country estates in Scotland and England and the Austrian Alps.

Dimitris Manikis, president of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts EMEA, said: “We are thrilled to add these outstanding resorts to our growing portfolio and continue to expand our destinations all across Europe.

“The continued trust of successful independent owners and operators highlights the success of our conversion strategy.

“We have a strong track-record for helping hospitality businesses benefit from the support and brand recognition that comes from joining the world’s largest hotel franchising company and are excited to begin our journey with CLC World Resorts & Hotels.”

CLC World is a family-owned business with over three decades of experience developing award-winning resorts in some of the world’s most desirable destinations.

CLC World’s collection of villas, apartments and suites sets itself apart from the conventional hotel, combining all the facilities and amenities of a luxury hotel with spacious one-to-three-bedroom homes, equipped with everything you have at home.

Patrick Ingram, group managing director, CLC World Resorts & Hotels commented: “What we value about Wyndham, in addition to their tremendous scale and distribution, is their passion for hospitality and outstanding support.

“We are delighted for our collaboration and are looking forward to welcoming even more travellers to our collection of beautiful resorts and hotels and delivering a wonderful guest experience together with Wyndham.”

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Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver Brings New Lifestyle Hotel to Denver

Written by Traveltalksteam on October 27, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 27, 2021 – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the debut of Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, the latest property from the modern lifestyle hotel brand, Hyatt Centric. The 264-room hotel attracts guests who are looking to explore the best of what Denver has to offer. In the heart of downtown, the destination-centric hotel debuts a new seasonally inspired restaurant, Apple Blossom, helmed by beloved local restaurateurs Paul C. Reilly and Aileen V. Reilly. Located at 1776 Champa Street, Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver is conveniently positioned near the city’s top destinations including the Colorado Convention Center, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Coors Field, Ball Arena, Union Station, and the bustling Larimer Square.

“We are so thrilled to bring this unique experience to the Denver market,” shares General Manager Colleen Huther. “This property fully embraces Denver’s booming cultural scene, from the locally inspired menu at Apple Blossom, to the murals from local artists, and meeting space with expansive views of North Downtown – we are truly bringing something special and shareworthy to travelers and locals alike.”

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a vibrant, colorful mural by local artist Megan Walker in the hotel’s driveway, blending themes of Denver’s urban life, Red Rock Amphitheatre’s music culture and Colorado’s renowned nature landscape into one vivid picture. Upon entering the hotel, a welcoming, spacious lobby adorned with energizing colors and glowing natural lighting offers the ideal gathering space for reconnecting, collaborating, planning, and unwinding. Locals and travelers alike are treated to music curated by local artist, Eric “Benny” Bloom of Grammy Award winning Lettuce, as they explore the hotel.

In true Denver fashion, the beloved owners of Denver’s Beast + Bottle and Coperta debut Apple Blossom, a chef-driven concept celebrating the best of America’s seasons with a focus on the agricultural bounty of local and regional ranchers, farmers and purveyors. Apple Blossoms’ signature dishes include Cowtown Beef Plate (a nod to Denver’s Stock Show heritage), Whole Grilled Rainbow Trout, Chef Fox’s Sweet Moon Pancakes at brunch, Apple Turnover with Buttermilk Ice Cream and Local Honey and more. Paying homage to sister restaurant Coperta, Apple Blossom offers an extensive house-made pasta program using Heritage Colorado grains. The beverage menu includes an all-American wine list, craft cocktails and ciders, with a tap system pouring select wine varietals and beer. The restaurant, located just off the hotel’s lobby, seats 68 guests with a 20-seat bar and lounge area and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Apple Blossom team also oversees room service, catering and banquets for the hotel.

The hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace boasts cityscape views, plush seating and outdoor fireplaces where guests can embrace Denver’s countless days of sunshine while enjoying small plates and drinks curated by Apple Blossom. With sliding-style doors, the space flows beautifully into a pre-function area where 2,530 square feet of flexible meeting space offers an upscale venue for groups of every size with unparalleled natural light. The penthouse level also plays home to the 975 square foot hospitality suite complete with a dedicated living area, spacious high-end dining table for eight, and a private rooftop terrace with mountain and city views. To complete the presidential floor experience, a 24-hour modern fitness center is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and features Peloton bikes looking onto the city.

Each Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver guestroom offers thoughtful, modern urban decor to reflect the personality and style of the city in which it resides. Guests can enjoy walk-in showers and an in-room work area, and those who opt for a high-floor space are treated to dramatic views. Guestrooms are completed with thoughtful high-end finishes including keyless entry and check-in, Drybar Buttercup hair dryers in every room, Hyatt Centric robes and BeeKind bath amenities. Additional amenities include a thoughtfully furnished lobby with areas for guests to work, meet, eat and lounge, fresh coffee services; lobby market for grab-and-go items, and valet options.

To make a reservation at Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, visit hyattcentricdowntowndenver.com or call 303-529-2340.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information:

About Hyatt Centric

Hyatt Centric is a brand of full-service lifestyle hotels located in prime destinations. Created for millennial-minded travelers who want to be in the middle of the action, Hyatt Centric hotels are thoughtfully designed to enable exploration and discovery. The lobby lounge is a launch pad providing guests with information about the most sought-after food, nightlife and activities the destination has to offer. The bar and restaurant are local hot spots where great conversations, locally inspired food and signature cocktails can be enjoyed. Streamlined modern rooms focus on delivering everything guests want and nothing they don’t, including BeeKind environmentally conscious bath products, Bluetooth-enabled electronics and salon-grade blow dryers. A team of colleagues is always available to recommend local hidden gems to launch guests’ discovery of the destination. For more information please visit hyattcentric.com. Follow @HyattCentric on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattCentricExplorer.

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The Edition to Debut in Reykjavik This November

Written by Gill Dewar on October 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 26, 2021

The Reykjavik Edition is opening in preview on November 9, 2021. The 253-room hotel has a lineup of bars, signature restaurant and nightclub, and introduces a new kind of modern social wellness concept.

In the hotel’s lobby, basalt stone is prominent, appearing on the flooring, which has been laid with an intricate pattern inspired by Icelandic geometry, besides a sculptural reception desk. The lobby bar beverage menu focuses on global wines by the glass and classic cocktails with an Icelandic twist. The lobby lounge has a central open-flame fireplace, surrounded by seating and a collection of custom-made furniture in intimate seating groups, such as the Jean-Michel Frank-inspired armchair in white shearling and Pierre Jeanneret-inspired chairs in black velvet.

Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is also home to Tides, a restaurant with a private dining room and a café with homemade baked goods, and Tölt, an intimate bar that takes its cues from The London Edition’s Punch Room. Tides, which has an outdoor terrace and its own waterfront entrance, is helmed by Gunnar Karl Gíslason.

Breakfast is a mix of clean juices, pastries, fruit, cereal and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) supplemented by an à la carte menu of hot dishes and a selection of open-face sandwiches. For lunch and dinner, Gíslason serves modern Icelandic cuisine with a focus on seasonal local products mainly cooked over an open fire. Alongside an extensive wine list, guests can expect dishes such as a vertical salad topped with fried oyster mushrooms, aged soy sauce and roasted almonds; whole Arctic char stuffed with lemon, dill and garlic butter; baked Atlantic cod, grilled potatoes, mixed herbs and butter; and lamb shoulder braised and slowed grilled, pickled onions mint and apples. There is also a weekend brunch menu and for three nights a week, The Counter, overlooking the open kitchen, will serve an eight-course tasting menu with wine pairings for up to 10 people. Those looking for something more casual can pop into the bakery and café for a coffee and a selection of crowberry scones, sourdough or rye bread sandwiches for dine-in or take-away.

On the opposite side of the lobby, Tölt, named after the unique fifth gait Icelandic horses are best known for, is a cozy bar, designed with three intimate nooks where guests can enjoy a menu of cocktails inspired by Icelandic culture using local Icelandic spirits. The Roof is located on the hotel’s seventh floor and offers panoramic mountain, North Atlantic Ocean and old town vistas. It is a versatile space that can be divided by a glass door for private events. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a large wraparound seasonal outdoor terrace, scattered with comfortable seating and a large fire pit. Here, the casual vibe is supplemented by a small menu of comfort foods like grilled flatbreads, toasted sandwiches and fresh salads.

Each of the hotel’s 253 guestrooms and suites have their beds facing floor-to-ceiling windows, while some feature an outdoor terrace. The bathrooms with custom handmade white ceramic tiles made in Italy are furnished with a white marble vanity, matte black accessories and fittings alongside custom Le Labo toiletries of Edition’s exclusive scent. From its prime corner spot on the sixth floor, the one-bedroom Penthouse Suite, with its own private terrace has harbor, Harpa and mountain views that are complemented by bright interiors, an oversized bathroom and a central fireplace.

The lower ground floor is home to Sunset, opening later this year, a cool underground night spot with a sound system and theatrical lighting that illuminates a dark and edgy black concrete interior with a black cast concrete bar. Sunset can be divided into three spaces with access from the hotel and Harpa square. Along with a cocktail menu and an ongoing roster of events, the club will play host to top DJs and performers. There is also a private entrance.

The Spa has three treatment rooms, along with a hammam, steam room, sauna and plunge pool, which offers hydrotherapy; there is also a central lounge with a spa bar, which serves a healthy menu of post-workout Viking shakes, champagnes and moss vodka infusions alongside snacks like volcano bread with black lava salt. This can be enjoyed in the Geothermal water splash pool together with the 60-minute Sundown Spa treatment, which includes a body massage and a cool onyx scalp massage. The Spa is located directly opposite Sunset.

Also on the lower ground floor is a gym, which has strength training, weight and cardio equipment.

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Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa to Debut in 2022

Written by Gill Dewar on October 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 26, 2021

The Emerald Collection, a luxury resort group behind Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, has announced its expansion with the acquisition of Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa. Set on a seven-hectare private island in the Raa Atoll, and framed by an extensive lagoon of 100 hectares, Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa will open on May 1, 2022 and is currently in the process of affiliating with The Leading Hotels of the World.

The resort will have five restaurants and two bars to choose from, as part of its signature “Deluxe All-Inclusive” packaging. The signature Italian restaurant, Mediterraneo, and Eclipse Bar are both located on the resort’s jetty, with the former serving Italian dishes, and the latter serving cocktails and aperitifs.

The resort also houses Emerald Spa, hidden amongst the vegetation. It comprises eight air-conditioned spa suites elevated among the palm trees, where the design and oval roofs resemble eco-friendly spaceships. There is a steam room, a manicure and pedicure corner, a yoga pavilion, plunge pools, a spa boutique, and an immersive relaxation area. The spa menu draws from Balinese tradition and includes a host of relaxing body massages and detoxifying facials. Designed with sports- and fitness-lovers in mind, Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa has one large tennis court and one paddle court in the marina, along with an air conditioned Gym & Sports Centre with Technogym equipment.

Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa will offer extensive water sports facilities and diving at the five-star Diving Centre, where guests can achieve PADI licence. A dedicated Dolphin Kids’ Club is under construction and will comprise complimentary indoor and outdoor facilities for children aged three to 12.

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new hotel will open in Iceland in November – The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel

Written by Traveltalksteam on October 22, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 22, 2021 – Opening in preview on November 9, 2021.

The first true global luxury lifestyle hotel brand, EDITION is an unexpected and refreshing collection of individualized, customized, one-of-a-kind hotels. Showcasing the best of dining and entertainment, services and amenities, each EDITION property is completely unique, designed to give guests a curated taste of the locale. Conceived by Ian Schrager in a partnership with Marriott International, EDITION combines the personal, intimate, individualized experience that Ian Schrager is known for with the global reach, operational expertise and scale of Marriott.

The Reykjavik EDITION brings the first 5-star modern luxury experience to one of the world’s most sustainable capitals. Located in the historical, scenic heart of downtown Reykjavik by Old Harbor port, the hotel is a 45-minute car ride from the airport and just steps away from the Laugavegur Street, the city’s vibrant shopping district, and the Harpa Concert and Conference Center. The hotel is the perfect jumping off point for exploring the wonders of the region, with the renowned Blue Lagoon within driving distance and the Northern Lights visible in the city during the winter solstice.

The hotel boasts a variety of distinctive food, beverage and entertainment outlets including alfresco dining to enjoy the panoramic views of the waterfront and the city. The Reykjavik EDITION’s sophisticated bedrooms and suites offer spectacular views of the harbor, Mt. Esja and the legendary Snæfellsjökull glacier.

A destination within a destination, the hotel will match the city’s fun-loving reputation with lively spaces to socialize, work and relax, all under one roof.

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This $5-billion Moon-themed Resort Is Coming to Las Vegas — Complete With an ‘Active Lunar Colony’ and Spaceship Nightclub

Written by Gill Dewar on October 21, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Activity, Amazing Facts, Hotel.

October 21, 2021

Moon Resorts Las Vegas is one of four lunar-themed properties planned to open around the world.

Space tourism is slowly becoming a reality with billionaires making seemingly regular visits to the stars and the world’s first space hotel planned to make its debut in 2027. Despite the promising progress, it may take a while before space tourism is available at a more accessible price point.

So what’s the next best thing in the meantime? Perhaps this new moon-shaped hotel coming to the Las Vegas Strip.

Canadian-based company Moon World Resorts Inc. has announced plans for a $5 billion, 5.5-million-square-foot hotel whose signature feature will be a replica of the moon standing at 735 feet tall and 650 feet wide.

The replica will only be 1/75,000 the size of the moon, but that’s large enough to accommodate 4,000 guest rooms and suites. Plans for Moon Resorts Las Vegas also include a 75,000-square-foot spa, 50,000-square-feet of food and beverage offerings, 75,000-square-feet of retail, and 150,00-square-feet of clubs and lounges.

For entertainment, guests can look forward to a 2,500-seat theater, a planetarium, a 5,000-seat event center, a 10,000-seat arena, and, of course, a casino. Adding to the moon-theme will also be a nightclub that will be positioned directly under a “spaceship” and will beam lights down on guests, the Daily Mail reported.

However, the main highlight of the property will be the “active lunar colony.” The colony, which will be in the upper half of the sphere, will “precisely mimic those [lunar colonies] now under serious active planning by Nasa, ESA, and many others.” And for $500, visitors can spend 90 minutes exploring the 10-acre space, using a “moon buggy” to pass over the craters.

Even just accessing this main attraction will be an adventure, with guests riding a rollercoaster-like “moon shuttle” that circles the exterior of the hotel suites on its way up to the lunar colony.

“People want something unique, something different, something ‘Wow,'” Michael Henderson, co-founder of Moon World Resorts, Inc., told The New York Post. “Space flights cost $200,000 to $250,000 — so the masses just can’t participate. With Moon [World Resorts], for $500, they can walk on an authentic lunar surface and enjoy exploring a lunar colony in a spectacular way.”

Moon Resorts Las Vegas will take about four years to build and is one of four lunar-themed properties planned to open around the world in 2026 or 2027. Beyond this Las Vegas property, others are planned for the Middle East, China, and Spain.

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5 Coolest Ice Hotels in the World

Written by Gill Dewar on October 21, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Activity, Amazing Facts, Hotel.

October 21, 2021

While some travelers visit warm-weather destinations for their winter vacations, lounging in the sun and enjoying a break from chilly temperatures back home, others head straight for freezing locales to embrace the picturesque, snowy landscapes. Across North America and northern Europe, ice hotels provide the ultimate winter wonderland experience, with one-of-a-kind accommodations in stunning, remote places, like Swedish Lapland or Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. Although amenities, on-site activities, and room types vary by location, ice hotels generally have a few things in common. The hotels made of ice and snow are typically rebuilt every year during the winter, open for a limited season while weather permits. And don’t worry — even though some offer beds made of ice, guests usually sleep on top of a mattress or in sleeping bags, so they don’t shiver all night.

Here are five stunning ice hotels located in Canada, Sweden, Norway, Romania, and Finland.

1. Hotel de Glâce, Canada

This French Canadian palace located outside Quebec City is perhaps one of the best-known ice hotels in the world, and it’s the only hotel made of ice in North America. Opened in 2001, the resort changes its structure each year, offering 21 rooms and themed suites that come with arctic sleeping bags.

Exact opening dates change every year — in 2021, the ice hotel is open from Jan. 2 to March 13.

2. Icehotel, Sweden

Located 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, Icehotel is situated in the tiny town of Jukkasjärvi. This retreat is made for the rugged traveler, and it’s open all year long. Icehotel Winter is rebuilt each year, offering ice rooms from December through April, while Icehotel 365 has ice rooms available year-round.

The cold rooms are kept at below-freezing temperatures to keep the ice bed frames intact. Guests staying in most rooms need to charge electronics and use the restroom at separate facilities (Deluxe Suites at Icehotel 365 are the exception with their own, warm en suite bathrooms). The hotel offers wilderness excursions, as well as a host of other services for travelers looking to embrace the quiet life of a Swedish village.

3. Snowhotel Kirkenes, Norway

Located in northern Norway, Snowhotel Kirkenes is open 365 days a year. There are 14 rooms available — seven double rooms and seven family rooms with four beds. In the winter, available excursions include king crab winter safaris and northern lights tours, while summer guests can opt to hike with huskies or fish in the Barents Sea.

4. Hotel of Ice, Romania

The Carpathian Mountains surround this high-altitude resort near the glacial Bâlea Lake. The hotel has been built from ice and snow every year since 2005, with double rooms and igloos available for travelers seeking a unique experience. The Ice Restaurant & Bar serves local dishes in a chilly setting — starters and desserts are even served on ice.

5. SnowCastle Resort, Finland

Located in Kemi in Finnish Lapland, SnowCastle Resort is open 365 days a year, but the SnowHotel is only open during the winter. Due to the pandemic, SnowHotel won’t reopen until 2022, but visitors can still check out ice sculptures and the ice bar at SnowExperience365. This year, guests can opt for a winter stay at the Seaside Glass Villas, which have glass roofs perfect for viewing the northern lights.

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Canopy by Hilton Makes UK Debut in The Heart Of London’s East End – BREEAM VERY GOOD sustainability rating

Written by Traveltalksteam on October 21, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

October 21, 2021 –Complete with panoramic views over the City of London, Canopy by Hilton London City echoes the spirit of one of the capital’s most vibrant, eclectic Hilton (NYSE: HLT) .

It is the UK’s first Canopy by Hilton hotel. Set within the multi-million-pound Minories development close to Aldgate station, the eco-conscious 340-room hotel provides the perfect base for design-conscious travellers looking to immerse themselves in London’s lively East End.

Following the opening of Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero earlier this year and the arrival of Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana, the hotel joins a growing portfolio of more than 30 lifestyle hotels across the globe – a number which is set to double in the coming years. Each hotel is inspired by its local neighbourhood and designed to give guests an authentic experience, steeped in the culture of the surrounding area.

Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, EMEA, Hilton, said: “Canopy by Hilton continues to expand its presence across Europe with recent openings in Paris and Madrid, and we’re thrilled to be bringing the brand to London – one of the most dynamic cities in the world. With Hilton set to open 30 hotels in the UK in the next five years, Canopy by Hilton London City is a stunning new addition to Hilton’s lifestyle portfolio and symbolises our commitment to providing exceptional accommodation in the very best global destinations.”

Phil Cordell, global head, Canopy by Hilton said: “Canopy by Hilton is all about championing local neighbourhoods – and what better place for its UK debut than the vibrant East End of London. With its rich textile history and thriving arts scene, the surrounding area provides no end of inspiration for this incredible hotel, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to experience everything it has to offer.”

Neil Taylor, chief operating officer, 4C Hotel Group said: “We are pleased to expand our portfolio with Hilton to open the first Canopy by Hilton hotel in the UK. Convenience and quality are at the core of our business, we carefully select hotels that are perfectly located in major key cities, so our customers have easy access to major tourist attractions. For our business travellers we ensure that our hotels are always located near key transport links. This hotel is the perfect collaboration for us, with an incredible location right in the heart of London’s buzzing East End.”

Locally Inspired Design

The hotel’s interior design reflects the rich culture of the area’s historic textile industry. Inspired by the Huguenot silk weavers who settled in Spitalfields in the 17th century, thoughtfully decorated guest rooms and dining spaces feature floral patterns and woven fabrics reminiscent of the techniques employed by the Huguenots. In celebration of Whitechapel’s contemporary arts scene, artwork created by neighbourhood artists adorns the public spaces throughout the hotel.

Eat. Drink. Smile.

Local inspiration continues throughout the hotel’s dining outlets. East End-inspired dishes made with local, sustainable ingredients are served at the hotel’s specialty restaurant Penny Squares, which takes its design inspiration from the quilting technique popular in the textile industry. Meanwhile, Freedom Café, named after Freedom Press Publishing House in Whitechapel High Street, provides the perfect place to relax, work or socialise over a craft coffee or East End-inspired cocktail at the heart of the hotel. Guests can also enjoy daily tastings at Freedom Café, featuring appetisers and drinks from local distilleries, craft brewers and wineries.

A must-visit, the hotel’s stunning rooftop terrace Florattica, due to open early next year, boasts uninterrupted views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the City of London, serving elegant, refined small plates and a selection of drinks against a vibrant backdrop inspired by the floral patterns of the Huguenots.

Sustainably Canopy

In support of Hilton’s Travel with Purpose 2030 Goals to double its investment in social impact and cut its environmental footprint in half by 2030, the hotel, which opens with a BREEAM VERY GOOD rating – the highest possible rating for the building category – is committed to operating sustainably. Initiatives include:

Building re-use: for both sustainable and economic benefit, two of the three buildings that comprise this hotel have been reused in construction.
Green thinking: a green roof not only supports the City of London’s drive to create more green spaces, but also helps with passive heating, allowing the property to conserve heat without using additional energy.
Efficient operations: a portion of the hotel’s energy will be derived from solar panels adorning another of its rooftop spaces, whilst an intelligent Building Management System controls the use of lighting and air conditioning throughout the building, significantly reducing waste energy.
Sustainable sleeping: guests will sleep easily on beds made from post-industrial recycled steel and wood from sustainable forests, waking up to sustainably produced bath amenities featuring recyclable packaging and filtered water served in reusable glass bottles.
Leading with local: part of the fabric of its local neighbourhood, the hotel proudly sources the majority of food and beverage from local suppliers, celebrating community farms, craft breweries and artisanal bakeries.

We’ve Got You Covered

Guests can enjoy an array of additional amenities available at the hotel, including:
Fully flexible meetings and events space, perfect for hosting exclusive events, high-profile meetings and intimate dinners against a stunning backdrop
Complimentary Canopy bikes to explore the local area in the most sustainable way possible
24-hour fitness centre equipped with a comprehensive range of TechnoGym® cardio and strength equipment

The hotel is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty programme for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels 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, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and access to the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Nightly room rates start from £249 or Hilton Honors members can redeem Points using the Points Explorer tool. All hotels offer fully flexible booking options with free changes and cancellations, with many rates giving guests the flexibility to change or cancel up to 24 hours before their arrival day*.

About Canopy by Hilton

Hilton’s first lifestyle brand, Canopy by Hilton, is a place in the neighborhood to relax and recharge, offering simple guest-directed service, comfortable spaces and thoughtfully local choices. Each hotel is designed as a natural extension of its neighborhood and delivers a fresh approach to hospitality and the guest experience. There are 31 Canopy properties open around the globe and 29 under development across 16 countries and territories. Experience a positive stay at Canopy by Hilton by booking at canopybyhilton.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about the brand at newsroom.hilton.com/canopybyhilton, and follow Canopy by Hilton on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

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1. Hotel de Glâce, Canada

2. Icehotel, Sweden

3. Snowhotel Kirkenes, Norway

4. Hotel of Ice, Romania

5. SnowCastle Resort, Finland

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Locally Inspired Design

Eat. Drink. Smile.

Sustainably Canopy

We’ve Got You Covered

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