Engel Ayurpura, the only authentic Ayurveda retreat in the Italian Dolomites, has appointed Mauro Massei as its new head chef. He starts with immediate effect and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise in vegan and Ayurvedic cooking.
He joins from the Paradiso Pure Living Hotel in Bolzano where as head chef for over two years he developed a complete repertoire of vegan menus. Carmen Kohler, the owner and Wellness Concierge of Engel Ayurpura said: ‘We are delighted to have persuaded Massei to join our team. His understanding of Ayurvedic cuisine and vegan lifestyle is in perfect alignment to our guest requirements.’
Born in Treia in February 1983, Chef Mauro developed an early interest in cooking at home. He says: ‘My mother seemed to be able to create delicious things to eat as if by magic and as a small boy I wanted to do the same.’
After graduating in 2002 from Italy’s Istituti Professionali del Settore Servizi Alberghieri e Ristorazione in the Marche region, he took his first job as a cook in a traditional Italian restaurant in the same area. His career took him to his first head chef role at Ristorante Il Casino del Marchese in Jesi in 2014 since when he has worked in luxury resort hotels and restaurants across Italy.
A passion for the natural world has given him a profound awareness of animal welfare and well-being, and by 2016 he became a committed vegan. Believing a plant-based diet to be better for humans and the planet, he began to create his own recipes. His talent is evident in the flavoursome, healthy vegetarian-ayurvedic fusion menus unique to Engel Ayurpura.
When not in the kitchen, Mauro is can be found hiking in the surrounding countryside where he feels at peace and at one with nature.
As General Manager at Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, Duarte Gonçalves da Cunha brings his wealth of luxury hospitality experience to the resort, with the goal to become one of Europe's most celebrated hotels. With previous experience at properties with exceptional service standards, Duarte holds a core belief in the inherent nobility of serving others, both his guests and the teams he integrates and leads.
Throughout his career, Duarte has worked at four Aman Resorts in Morocco, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Montenegro, as well as Finca Cortesin on the Costa del Sol. Most recently, he distinguished himself as General Manager for Discovery Hotel Management, leading the team at Octant Douro in Portugal for the past four years. Duarte holds degrees in Hotel Management and Strategic Marketing from Les Roches Hotel Management School in Switzerland and has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
IHG Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Indah Megayani as Spa & Wellness Director of Jala Spa & Wellness at Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa. With over 20 years of experience in renowned spas across the Maldives, Bali, Vietnam, and Oman, Indah brings a deep understanding of wellness traditions and a mindful approach to this mountaintop sanctuary.
Indah has been instrumental in every aspect of Jala Spa & Wellness’ creation – from its contemporary design and bespoke therapies to signature products and the hand-selection of a team of wellness gurus and therapists. This serene sanctuary reflects her calm and intuitive nature, providing guests a space to find balance and harmony amidst the breathtaking beauty of Jabal Akhdar.
A certified practitioner in Sound Healing, Crystal Healing, Yoga, and Meditation, Indah’s dedication to guest satisfaction and commitment to creating a nurturing environment have earned her a reputation for excellence in the wellness industry.
“Jala Spa & Wellness is a place to reconnect with yourself,” says Indah Megayani. “We have created a space where ancient wisdom and modern luxury intertwine, offering a truly immersive wellness experience unlike any other. From the unique hydrotherapy of our Vichy Shower Rooms to the serene ambiance of our indoor vitality pool, every detail has been carefully curated to create an unforgettable journey of rejuvenation.”
Under Indah’s leadership, Jala Spa & Wellness is set to become a leading wellness destination. Her passion for curating exceptional spa journeys that reflect the essence of each destination will ensure that every guest’s experience is truly unforgettable.
The launch of Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa marks a significant milestone as IHG’s first Hotel Indigo resort in the region. The 173-room retreat invites explorers to experience a breathtaking mountain escape where curated wellness and neighbourhood-inspired unforgettable experiences come to life through passionate storytelling. Each elegantly appointed room, suite, and chalet offers majestic views, creating a serene sanctuary where sustainability is thoughtfully integrated into every aspect.
NOVUM Hospitality, has appointed Samira Said (born Etmenan) as the new Chief Executive Officer, sharing the role with her brother, David Etmenan, who is the current CEO and owner.
Samira Said’s new role as co-CEO builds on her extensive experience within the company. Previously, she served as Chief Brand Officer, where she was instrumental in developing the upper-midscale brand, the niu. Her work ensured that each hotel within the niu brand aligned with the company’s lifestyle-focused values. Additionally, Samira played a crucial role in the successful completion of NOVUM Hospitality’s partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts, a deal finalized in April 2024.
As co-CEO, Samira Said will focus on managing the changes required to integrate and implement the co-branding and rebranding initiatives related to this partnership. She will oversee onboarding and integration processes, particularly in relation to the co-branded Holiday Inn – the niu and the European launch of IHG’s Garner TM and Candlewood Suites® brands.
In her expanded role, Samira will take on a broader range of responsibilities, including the strategic management of hotel operations, the development of marketing strategies, and the coordination of projects. Her efforts will be directed towards optimizing daily operations at the hotel level, enhancing brand visibility, and increasing customer loyalty. Additionally, she will oversee the overall commercial strategy within the company’s cooperation network and ensure the efficiency of its operating facilities.
The introduction of dual leadership at NOVUM Hospitality is intended to improve efficiency in a complex and competitive market environment. The combined leadership of Samira Said and David Etmenan is expected to provide significant advantages as the company continues to establish new brands and integrate innovative processes. The leadership team is further supported by Christian Moll, Deputy CEO, and Dr. Stefan Gneuss, CFO, who will work closely with the co-CEOs.
