Industry News

Desert & Delta Safaris Is Honoured with the Global Sustainability Award

Park Igls Medical Spa Resort has been voted Best Destination Spa in Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. This is yet another accolade to add to the resort’s glittering résumé, and testimony to its uncompromising high standard of comfort and care.  Photo credits: Park Igls Medical Spa Resort Managing Director Andrea Gnägi MAG accepted the award on behalf of her team at a black-tie dinner in London on 6 November.  She said: ‘It’s always pleasing to have our work endorsed, and especially by such a prestigious organisation, whose judgements have been a reference for discerning travellers for over 40 years.’ Park Igls was chosen for its pioneering Modern Mayr Medicine and world-class integrated healthcare. The holistic approach includes treatment programmes adapted exclusively to each individual. The latest diagnostics and therapies, administered with expertise, discretion and care, form the basis of the guest experience, enabling visitors to enjoy the health benefits for years to come. Perched above Innsbruck in Austria’s beautiful Tyrolean Alps, Park Igls Medical Spa Resort (www.park-igls.com) offers health-conscious individuals the chance to boost physical and mental wellbeing in inspiring Alpine surroundings. Five-star services and facilities, gourmet Modern Mayr Cuisine, and a wide range of on- and off-site activities complete the picture. There’s nowhere better for a life-enhancing stay.  

Best companies accreditation recognises hotel’s commitment to positive HR practice and a happy work culture

LUX* South Ari Atoll is proud to announce it has been named Best for Families in the Africa, Asia and Middle East regions at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence. This esteemed accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to delivering exceptional family-friendly experiences in the Maldives. Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll Condé Nast Johansens, a trusted luxury travel guide, is renowned for its expert recommendations of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants, and travel experiences. The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence are among the most prestigious in the hospitality industry, with winners selected by an independent panel of experts who assess accommodation quality, service, dining, and overall ambience. “We are honoured to receive this recognition from Condé Nast Johansens,” says John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. “Our goal is to provide families with the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring each guest, young and older, has a memorable experience. Our commitment to high standards is reflected through our family-friendly accommodation, engaging PLAY kids’ club and island experiences.” This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens emphasises LUX* South Ari Atoll’s status as a premier destination for family travellers. From cinema under the stars and coral planting workshops to snorkelling with whale sharks and island treasure hunts, the resort continues to set the benchmark for luxury family travel globally. For bookings and enquiries on family experiences, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

The MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural hotel recognition programme, MICHELIN Keys, has awarded Two Keys to Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury resort on tranquil Tubkaek Beach on the Andaman coast of Southern Thailand. Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi The French-based MICHELIN Guide, famed for its accreditation of “stars” to the most exquisite restaurants, has for the first time introduced a ranking system of “keys” to acclaim the most outstanding hotels in the world. The 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in Thailand included a total of eight Three-Key hotels (its highest decoration), 19 Two-Key hotels, and 31 One Key hotels. Each hotel had been anonymously visited and assessed by MICHELIN inspectors. Banyan Tree Krabi was among only four resorts or hotels in the Krabi region decorated with a key award. According to the MICHELIN Guide, distinction is based on five criteria: excellence in architecture and design; quality of service; overall personality and character; value for money; and meaningful contributions to the local community. In addition, the prestigious French-based guide also recommended the resort’s spa, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, as one of the seven “most luxurious” spas in Thailand. Banyan Tree Spa Krabi’s signature experience is The Rainforest, the region’s first luxury hydrotherapy facility, described by the MICHELIN Guide as a place “where tropical serenity meets holistic wellness”. “Dive into a luxurious hydrothermal circuit featuring a Rain Walk, Steam Room, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Vitality Pool, Outdoor Cold and Hot Plunge Pools, Jet Pool, and Heated Bed,” the MICHELIN Guide said. “Let the Tropical Rainmist take you away as the soothing Rain Shower helps you relax before an invigorating body scrub boosts your skin’s moisture. Experience true tranquillity as a skilled therapist works their magic, kneading away all your tension.” The spa has eight private treatment rooms, each with a selection of “Colour-Calm” choices. The theory behind colour-calm therapy is that the spectrum of light carries electromagnetic energy, and therefore affects energy or chakras. This month, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi introduced a new treatment idea for guests — complimentary weightless therapy classes. Weightless therapy is a holistic technique that involves floating in water, whereby the buoyancy helps alleviate pain and stress. Also known as flotation therapy, this sensory deprivation treatment is renowned for inducing a state of deep relaxation. At Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, trained therapists guide and glide their clients gently upon the water in one-on-one sessions usually lasting half an hour. Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi “Weightless therapy is an alternative way to heal your body and mind,” said Banyan Tree Spa Krabi Manager Ms Montira Vichiankoo. “The meditative state obtained by floating in the water helps us relax as well as exercising muscles, joints and bones.” The new weightless therapy experience is just one of several innovations at the award-winning spa, a self-styled “Sanctuary for the Senses” that offers massage and wellbeing treatments, including traditional Thai and oil massages such as the Restorative Detox massage, a deep tissue technique designed to stimulate the body’s circulatory system. Alternatively, the Sleep Essentials massage is a unique ritual that brings the mind and body to a deep state of rest. Each therapist at the resort has undergone intensive training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy, which introduces students to its very own “8-Pillar Philosophy.” The 8-Pillar Philosophy — involving the concepts of Connection, Growth, Groundedness, Nourishment, Rest, Movement, Practice, and Mindfulness — is also evident in Banyan Tree’s “Wellbeing Sanctuary” programme which was launched in 2021. Setting aside a selection of suites dedicated to holistic and wellness pursuits, the “Wellbeing Sanctuary” provides guests with an opportunity to combine a leisure vacation with a daily itinerary designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation to Thai boxing, from massage and hydrotherapy to nature trails and sailing lessons — complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations. Located on a tranquil beachfront, and tiered into a lush hillside facing westward towards the Andaman Sea and the sunset, Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa. Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and the aforementioned rainforest-themed spa. For more information or reservations, contact +66 075 811 888 or email krabi@banyantree.com

Ba Na Hills Golf Club has added to its impressive accolades, securing the title of Best Golf Course Asia 2024 in the golf category at the World Luxury Travel Awards. Photo credits: Ba Na Hills Golf Club Designed by Ryder Cup-winning Team Europe captain Luke Donald, the club is renowned as one of the premier golf courses in Vietnam and Asia. This reputation was further solidified when it was recognized as one of the continent's most exciting golf venues by the esteemed panel of World Luxury Travel Awards judges. In addition to its recognition at the awards ceremony, Ba Na Hills Golf Club was also featured in the October issue of Travel Temptations, a bespoke publication linked to the World Luxury Travel Awards. “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award,” said Simon Mees, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “It’s gratifying to have our efforts acknowledged on the global stage by the World Luxury Travel Awards as one of the finest courses in the world.” The club’s success comes during a standout year for Ba Na Hills, a key player in the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) initiative, a newly revitalised marketing collective promoting the top golf courses of Central Vietnam. Last year, Golf.com, one of the world’s foremost golf publications, listed the club among Asia's 11 best golf resorts. Photo credits: Ba Na Hills Golf Club This latest recognition reinforces Ba Na Hills Golf Club's position as Vietnam's most awarded golf destination, reflecting its consistent ability to deliver a world-class golfing experience. Managed by IMG, the club features a fully floodlit, 18-hole championship course designed by Donald, offering players an unparalleled golf experience. Nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain range, just 30 minutes from the rapidly expanding city of Danang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is known for its scenic parkland-style course. The layout flows seamlessly over rolling hills, with sweeping views of lush greenery, sparkling streams, and tranquil lakes enhancing the experience. “Our goal is to continuously elevate the guest experience,” added Mees. “By staying true to this mission, we expect the accolades to keep coming. These awards reflect our team's dedication and passion for creating unforgettable experiences that keep guests coming back.” For more information about Ba Na Hills Golf Club, please visit www.banahillsgolf.com.

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award, a testament to the exceptional experiences it provides to guests from around the world. This recognition, based on consistently high ratings and positive feedback from travellers, reflects the resort’s commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality and service excellence. Photo credits: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa Nestled amidst lush greenery and offering world-class amenities, Clarks Exotica has long been a preferred destination for leisure, business, and events. The resort’s dedication to ensuring the utmost comfort and satisfaction of its guests has earned it a reputation as one of the leading luxury properties in India. The Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award highlights the resort’s continuous efforts to enhance guest experiences through personalized services and a serene environment. Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Balaji M, CEO of Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa, said, “We are honoured to receive the Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating memorable and delightful stays for our guests. It is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, who go above and beyond to ensure that every visitor feels at home. We will continue to elevate our services to meet and exceed guest expectations in the years to come.” Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa continues to be a leader in the hospitality industry, consistently raising the bar with its state-of-the-art facilities, including the award-winning Ocean Convention Centre, premium dining options, and a holistic wellness spa. The resort’s latest accolade from Agoda further cements its place as a top destination for travellers seeking luxury, comfort, and unforgettable experiences.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh has bagged a clutch of awards in Hong Kong-based Smart Travel Asia’s annual Best in Travel Awards, named among Asia’s top sustainable, family, and luxury hotels.  In the readers’ choice contest, Alma took sixth place in the awards’ ‘Top 10 Sustainable Hotels’, ‘Top 10 Family Hotels’ and ‘Top 10 New Hotels’ categories and placed ninth in the ‘Top 10 Luxury Hotels’ category. Photo credits: Alma Resort Cam Ranh  “Congratulations on an excellent result for Alma,” said Smart Travel Asia’s editor Vijay Verghese. “A very crowded field this year. Well done!” The 2024 Best in Travel Poll winners and details can be accessed here: https://www.smarttravelasia.com/travelpoll2024.htm “Our international audience … is well travelled, knowledgeable, and curious,” Smart Travel Asia said. “What travellers wanted in 2024 can be distilled into one word — experience. Experience is the new luxury that goes beyond the marble and price tag.” “In the end, these ratings are about how an experience made the traveller ‘feel’. It is all about the emotional takeaways. Hotels and airlines that performed well had a high feel-good factor, much of this based on personal interactions.” “As surveyed on our free, no-nominations, open-to-all, 2024 Best In Travel Poll (running July, August and September), our readers on average took 16 air trips (up by two) in the past year (with 18% taking 31-40 air trips and 5% over 50 trips). They earned an average US$172,000 per annum (household income; down from $178,000 in 2023) and over 60% visited direct via bookmarks, referrals, or through our monthly e-newsletters.” Photo credits: Alma Resort Cam Ranh  Bold, spacious and emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the independently owned and operated luxury resort Alma is making waves in Cam Ranh, a peninsula on Vietnam’s south-central coast that first found fame as Southeast Asia’s greatest deepwater harbor and is now rising as an upscale alternative to nearby Nha Trang. Alma is home to an awe-inspiring host of world-class facilities, such as an eclectic range of restaurants helmed by leading chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, a classical bar, pool bar and beach bar, and mini supermarket. Other drawing cards include a science museum, waterpark with a lazy river, wave pool slides and kids pool, 13-treatment room spa, cinema, convention centre, amphitheatre, youth centre with virtual reality games, kid’s club, gymnasium and yoga room, an 18-hole putting green, onsite gourmet organic farm and more.  For further information or to make a booking, visit www.alma-resort.com or contact Alma on +84 258 399 1666, or email info@alma-resort.com

The Anam Cam Ranh has been recognized as one of the 100 best hotels in the world, landing on prestigious Fodor’s Finest Hotels list for 2025. Photo credits: The Anam Cam Ranh “After compiling the insights and opinions of more than 750 global experts and reviewing thousands of properties, we’ve determined that The Anam Cam Ranh is one of the 100 best hotels in the world. This is a remarkable achievement,” said Fodor’s Travel, a producer of English-language travel guides and online tourism information. The Anam Cam Ranh was the only Vietnamese property to make the cut. “With its Imperial-style aesthetics and idyllic ocean views, the award-winning Anam Cam Ranh was one of the first resorts to put Cam Ranh on the map … The Anam blends Indochine elegance with locally sourced decor and sprawling grounds. Here, coconut palms and frangipani trees lead to a pristine stretch of white-sand beach and azure waters,” Fodor’s Travel said of the 12-hectare resort. “Check into one of its chic yellow and aqua-accented rooms or suites or, if you’re going all out, the expansive Anam Ocean View Pool Villas. Each comes with a private balcony or terrace that opens to stunning gardens or ocean vistas, as well as original paintings by Vietnamese artists and sustainable local hardwood finishes. A top spot for foodies, Lang Viet Restaurant offers delightful Vietnamese cuisine; The Colonial features international fare; and The Beach Club’s casual seafood offerings pair beautifully with a gorgeous ocean breeze.” Photo credits: The Anam Cam Ranh “Eat well and rest well here: the lagoon-style pool and spa promise 24/7 relaxation. Paired with the resort’s personalized service and eco-friendly practices, it’s an unbeatable getaway on Vietnam’s serene coast.” Access the full list of 100 hotels here: https://www.fodors.com/worlds-best/hotels and the best hotels in Asia to make the top 100 are here: https://www.fodors.com/worlds-best/hotels/asia Fodor’s Travel said what made compiling the Fodor’s Finest Hotels list “such a daunting task is the outrageous number of hotels worldwide”. “The United Nations World Travel Organization has estimated that there are roughly 700,000 hotels in the world–from hostels to uber-luxury. Other estimates suggest the number is closer to 1 million properties–and some believe there are even more. And while there seems to be no definitive answer, one thing is certain: that’s a lot of options,” the publication said. “We’ve worked with … globetrotting writers and hotel professionals to narrow things down from 700,000 hotels to only 100. These properties represent the best 0.014% anywhere on the planet. That’s also why we don’t rank them–making it onto this list is achievement enough. Every single property has been vetted by our team, every hotel has been experienced, and every stay has been extraordinary. And while there are other properties that can easily justify a place on this list, we’ve had to be brutal and fastidious, splitting hairs on minor matters. Ultimately, these are the 100 hotels that we’re obsessed with for 2025 and think you will be, too.” For further information or to make a booking, visit www.theanam.com, email info.cr@theanam.com or telephone +(84) 258 398 9499.

Building on the success of their partnership in 2023, The Peninsula London is proud to continue its collaboration with the British Fashion Council as the Official Hotel Partner for the second consecutive year of The Fashion Awards (TFA). TFA will take place on Monday, 2nd December at The Royal Albert Hall London. The Peninsula London will proudly host luminaries across fashion, film, and music in glamour, comfort and luxury, as they prepare for the prestigious BFC Foundation fundraising event. Last year, guests included Erin O'Connor, Grace Carter, Harris Reed, Jean Campbell, Katie Piper, Law Roach, Letitia Wright, Little Simz, Louis Partridge, Maya Jama, Kojey Radical, Michael Ward, Neelam Gill, Olivia Arben, Olivia Dean, Abbey Clancy, Damson Idris, Paapa Essiedu, Rochelle Humes, Sheila Atim, Skepta, Stormzy, and Zara McDermott. Photo credits: Seye Isikalu The Fashion Awards 2024 presented by Pandora brings together a global community in London, the home of fashion creativity, to amplify leaders of change, celebrate excellence in creativity, and support the next generation of creative talent. The event supports the future growth and success of the British fashion industry by focusing on education, grant-giving, and business mentoring.

Meliá Chiang Mai has clinched a coveted spot in the well-respected Australian magazine Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards, recognised as among “Thailand’s Best Family Resorts”. Photo credits: Meliá Chiang Mai Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai city in Thailand’s mountainous north, Meliá Chiang Mai rounded out the list of 12 Thailand hotels and resorts and was the only property in Chiang Mai to make the cut. Nominations for the Holidays with Kids 2024 Best Family Resorts Awards were open for 12 months and came from the magazine’s vast readership of more than 600,000 parents. “The competition has been fierce, with so many kid-friendly resorts not just meeting expectations but smashing them. From creative kids’ clubs and family focused dining, to kids-centric facilities and activities, the winning resorts and hotels are raising the bar for families,” the publication said. Holidays with Kids described Meliá Chiang Mai as “beautiful”. “YHI Spa pampers guests with massage therapy, scrubs, wraps and facials, while the gym ensures your fitness goals stay on track,” the magazine said. “There are three dining venues serving up culinary masterpieces, and the resort even facilitates the Meliá Farm 360 experience, immersing guests in the eco-farming program that fills their plates. The rooftop bar has fantastic views of the surrounding landscape, the pool is the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring Chiang Mai, and the kids club will keep the little nippers safe and sound when parents need a romantic evening for two.” Photo credits: Meliá Chiang Mai Meliá Chiang Mai’s general manager Marc Selinger said he and his team were honoured that the hotel had been recognised as among Thailand’s leading family properties in the awards for the second year in a row. “We’ve got so much to offer the young and the young at heart including our Family Rooms with puzzles and board games, children’s tent, toys and more, and our vast kids and teens club with a program packed with activities such as Thai boxing, umbrella painting, and arts and craft with recycled materials,” he said. “Our large outdoor swimming pool with a shallow pool area for kids replete with two water slides, a rain curtain, water fountains and a giant tipping bucket is popular with families, and our hotel is a great base to explore Chiang Mai’s many attractions ranging from famed temple Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep to the Chiang Mai Night Safari and novel Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park.” View the full list of winners here: https://holidayswithkids.com.au/best-family-resorts-awards/ and the full list of the ‘Best Family Resorts in Thailand’ here: https://holidayswithkids.com.au/best-family-resorts-thailand/ To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

Oceanfront Alma Resort on southern Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula has been named the No. 1 family resort in Vietnam by the influential Australian-based Holidays with Kids magazine for the second year in a row. Photo credits: Alma Resort Nominations for the Holidays with Kids 2024 Readers’ Choice Best Family Resorts Awards were open for 12 months and came from the magazine’s vast readership of more than 600,000 parents. “The competition has been fierce, with so many kid-friendly resorts not just meeting expectations but smashing them. From creative kids’ clubs and family focused dining, to kids-centric facilities and activities, the winning resorts and hotels are raising the bar for families,” the publication said. Holidays with Kids deemed Alma a “thrilling family escape”. “The resort features 12 pools that flow towards Bai Dai Beach, where a bevy of water sports await,” the review continues. “Or dive into the splash waterpark, with its slides, wave pool, and lazy river. There’s a fantastic kids’ club and a youth club for teens, brimming with activities. For active fun, the resort features sports courts, beach sports, an 18-hole mini golf course, and a Bravo Pro Golf Simulator. The one to three-bedroom suites and pavilions are generously sized and stylishly designed, offering balconies with breathtaking ocean views.” Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said he and the team were thrilled Alma had been recognised by the prestigious awards as Vietnam’s leading family resort for a second consecutive year. Photo credits: Alma Resort “Alma is truly one-of-a-kind with its unprecedented array of family facilities ranging from our science museum and cinema to our onsite sustainable farm and more. It’s wonderful for Alma to be recognised as the ultimate family holiday by so many readers of Holidays with Kids. Before these awards had a specific category for Vietnamese resorts, Alma was recognised as the third best resort in the awards’ worldwide category.” View the full list of winners here: https://holidayswithkids.com.au/best-family-resorts-awards/ and the full list of the ‘Best Family Resorts in Vietnam’ here: https://holidayswithkids.com.au/best-family-resorts-vietnam/ To contact Alma or to make a booking, please visit alma-resort.com, call +84 258 399 1666 or email info@alma-resort.com