Austria’s leading five-star family and wellness resort, Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Leogang near Salzburg, has been named Eco-Hotel of the Year in the Destination Deluxe Awards 2024.
Photo credit: Naturhotel Forsthofgut
Announced on 19 September at a glittering awards ceremony in Bangkok, it was the first time Forsthofgut had entered. Christoph Schmuck, owner of the wellness retreat said: ‘we are overjoyed to have been singled out for this prestigious accolade. It is a welcome endorsement of our continued team effort to look after our beautiful environment and planet. Every member of staff has had a hand in our success, and I am proud to accept this award on their behalf.’
A panel of 20 respected judges - each an expert in their field - identified Forsthofgut as the Eco-Hotel of the Year in recognition of its meticulous execution of sustainable practice across all departments and an exceptional contribution to the wellness, spa, beauty and travel sector.
Photo credit: Naturhotel Forsthofgut
Examples of Forsthofgut’s eco-practice include: plastic-free and recycled paper, boxes and packaging policy throughout; 100% biodegradable cleaning products; clean energy created by a bio-mass heating plant (fuelled by fallen wood from their own forest) and an R50 menu (all ingredients sourced within a 50km radius). Guests are also offered a linen towel – handmade by a local artisan - as a departing gift.
The Destination Deluxe Awards, now in their sixth year, honour leaders and pioneers in wellness and travel, celebrating their excellence and rigorous standards. Quality, transparency, and originality are key criteria and recognition is for today’s change-makers who push boundaries and innovate in their fields. There are 25 categories of which three are ‘People’s Choice’ inviting the public to vote on the shortlists drawn up by the judges.
The most magical time of the year becomes more enchanting when celebrated beneath the starry skies of the Maldives, with thoughtfully curated festive events. Guests are invited to immerse in Maldivian hospitality, indulging in beachfront feasts, creative children’s activities, and vibrant culinary and musical celebrations. From 22 December 2024 to 7 January 2025, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a myriad of programmes to create unforgettable memories.
"Our resort is the ultimate destination for the festive season, combining the beauty of tropical island surroundings with a variety of special events," says John Rogers, General Manager, LUX* South Ari Atoll. "Recently named the Best Resort for Families in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024, extraordinary experiences have been designed to suit every guest, whether they are looking to soak in the festive spirit, unwind with a spa day, or embark on an underwater adventure. Guests are invited to celebrate the season – the LUX* way."
Photo credit: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Expert-Led Workshops
The resort will welcome four distinguished experts who will offer workshops to enrich guest experiences. Painter, Hussain Ihfal Ahmed, known as "Iphpha," will showcase his acclaimed coffee paintings and impressionist works, drawing inspiration from nature. Makers Space, an enigmatic artist from Japan, will introduce guests to distinctive pixelated art style, transforming familiar scenes into vibrant new realities. Jeannine Platz, a versatile artist from Hamburg, will blend her dynamic harbour paintings with performance art, captivating audiences with expressive calligraphy and painting. Additionally, Jochen Schöps, a German volleyball champion, will lead daily workshops, providing guests with a rare opportunity to train with an Olympic athlete.
Festive Highlights
Dining highlights begin with canapés, bubbly and festive cocktails as carols fill the air at an elegant Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on 22 December. MIXE and East Market will be the venues for indulgent Christmas Eve Dinner where international buffet is served in an atmosphere of conviviality, followed by a Christmas Eve Party at Beach Rouge. The big day itself is marked in warm Maldivian style with a Christmas Day Roast. Guests will also enjoy a feast of local flavours and entertainment at MIXE Maldivian Night on 26 December. As the New Year approaches, excitement builds with the New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at MIXE and East Market, before guests head to Senses for the Year-end Countdown Party featuring live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display to welcome 2025.
Kids’ Festive Fun
Children will be captivated by a holiday season filled with surprises. From gingerbread house decorating to writing letters to Santa, little ones’ imaginations will run wild with festive creativity. Santa himself will make a special appearance on Christmas morning, arriving on the beach with a sack of gifts for every young guest. Beach games, treasure hunts and outdoor movie nights ensure endless fun.
Photo credit: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Sun, Sea, and Spa
Guests can create their ideal holiday with a blend of festive celebrations and serene island activities. Daily wellness sessions, including floating yoga and facial workshops, offer relaxation, while the stunning marine life of the Maldives can be explored through guided diving and snorkelling excursions. For those seeking to unwind, the spa offers exclusive festive packages designed to rejuvenate and refresh, ensuring guests feel their best.
Beachfront and Overwater Accommodation
With 10 room categories to choose – from a chic bungalow for lazy mornings, an overwater villa for ultimate privacy, or a pavilion with direct beach access for beachside lounging, there is something to suit both couples and families - for that ideal getaway.
View the Festive programme here.
For booking, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
Fusion’s luxury hotels and resorts across Vietnam and Thailand have rolled out exclusive new packages designed especially for couples, as the wellness-inspired brand seeks to create memorable new romantic getaways.
From private oceanfront dining by candlelight to relaxing couple’s bath rituals and spa treatments, the new packages and add-on experiences have been thoughtfully curated with romance in mind amidst some of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable tropical settings.
Fusion Hotel Group
Meanwhile, Fusion’s new customer loyalty program, Fusionlife, helps travelers find the best available rates and other exclusive benefits at fusionhotelgroup.com/fusionlife. The fast-growing brand currently includes 23 properties, with five more resorts under development.
Maia Quy Nhon
The resort in the coastal province of Quy Nhon has introduced Maiamour, a specially curated package and private dining experience at their oceanfront ad hoc restaurant. Exclusive couples’ activities include a wellness journey, a romantic bath ritual and bespoke turndown service, along with pre-dinner sunset cocktails, afternoon high tea for two and customized in-villa floral decor. For more visit https://quynhon.maiaresorts.com/save/maiamour/.
Fusion Hotel Group
Fusion Resort Cam Ranh
Couples can enjoy memorable and romantic surprises including a spectacular dinner with 200 candles on the beach, followed by a Fusion Bath Bliss experience complete with 100 roses, candles, honeyed milk, chocolate and herbs. The resort’s special new romance package starts from $1,200 per couple. Fusion Resort Cam Ranh is perched atop a 28-meter-high sand dune overlooking Cam Ranh Bay. https://camranh.fusionresorts.com.
Fusion Suites Vung Tau
The hotel in southern Vietnam features an infinity rooftop pool and new honeymoon packages that include a two-day, one-night stay, a spa treatment for two and a romantic candlelit dinner specially curated by the hotels’ chefs, starting from $280. https://vungtau.fusion-suites.com.
Fusion Suites Phuket Patong
Situated high on a lush tropical hillside overlooking the sparkling Andaman Sea and Patong Beach in Phuket, Thailand, Fusion Suites Phuket Patong has introduced a new package exclusively designed for couples. The Grand Deluxe Jacuzzi - Spa Retreat includes a couples’ massage and daily breakfast for two, with prices starting from 4,200 baht ($123) per room per night. fusion-suites.com/phuketpatong.
GLOW Ao Nang Krabi
The resort in southern Thailand has a well-deserved reputation for beach lovers and recently unveiled a new package for couples with a special rate (starting from 1,500 baht per night) for couples staying in a Superior Room, with breakfast. https://aonang.glowhotels.com.
Rosewood Luang Prabang invites you to a captivating celebration of the Festival of Lights on 15th to 19th October 2024 with a two-night stay that immerses guests in the rich culture of Laos. This special event includes a stunning exhibition by local artist Ms. Salyna Malaidet, whose handcrafted lanterns and mulberry paper art illuminate the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere.
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Guests will also have the unique opportunity to experience the vibrant Festival of Lights parade in town, where the city of Luang Prabang glows with lanterns and decorated boats, celebrating the end of Buddhist Lent. This unforgettable experience offers a glimpse into the enchanting traditions and spiritual significance of this unique Laotian festival.
Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with private roundtrip transfers, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey to Rosewood Luang Prabang. The experience begins with a serene morning almsgiving, where guests have the unique opportunity to partake in the revered tradition of offering food to Buddhist monks. This profound practice fosters a sense of community and spiritual reflection, providing a meaningful start to their stay.
Guests will then have the opportunity to participate in a candle and lantern-making workshop, preparing for the Festival of Lights with a hands-on experience. The culinary adventure continues with a Taste of Luang Prabang Dinner at The Great House, featuring a sumptuous family-style feast that highlights the finest local cuisine. This meal includes ten exquisite dishes for sharing—eight savory, one dessert, and a cup of traditional Lao coffee or tea.
Rosewood Luang Prabang
The experience is further enriched with a guided evening temple tour, offering an exclusive glimpse into the Festival of Lights in all its splendor. As night falls, hundreds of lights are delicately arranged on the ground in front of the temples, creating a mesmerizing glow that illuminates the surroundings and enchants all who visit. This magical display, combined with insights into the daily lives of monks and locals as they prepare for one of Luang Prabang’s most picturesque celebrations, ensures that guests leave with unforgettable memories that capture the spirit and beauty of the festival.
Adding a touch of local artistry, Rosewood Luang Prabang proudly presents an outdoor exhibition by Ms. Salyna Malaidet, a talented artist born and raised in Luang Prabang. Continuing her father’s legacy in ancient mulberry paper production since 1995, Ms. Malaidet merges traditional craftsmanship with her own artistic flair, bringing a contemporary twist to traditional Laotian arts. She shares, “My vision is to preserve our cultural heritage while inviting others to experience its beauty in new and creative ways.” Her Porsaa Art Gallery and handicraft shop offer workshops and art classes, including paper and lantern-making sessions that allow guests to connect with the local culture hands-on.
Rosewood Luang Prabang
The exhibition at Rosewood Luang Prabang will be set outdoors under a canopy of stars, creating a magical ambiance with lanterns and lights illuminating the garden. Each guest room will feature handcrafted lanterns, which guests can bring to the main garden. There, the garden will be fully adorned with lanterns scattered across the grass, enhancing the sense of community and shared experience. This setup not only allows guests to contribute to the enchanting display but also creates lasting memories as they become part of the vibrant exhibition, carrying their lanterns through the beautifully lit garden.
The exhibition will highlight the splendor of the “Boun Ock Phansa” light boat festival, seamlessly blending Buddhism with Luang Prabang’s rich cultural heritage. The theme incorporates floral elements from Rosewood’s garden into the mulberry paper, showcasing ancient paper-making techniques. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the enchanting traditions of the light boat festival, where “saa” mulberry paper has been used for decades in temple murals and ceremonial boats. This unique spectacle captures the essence of Luang Prabang’s vibrant spirit and cultural depth.
This two-night Festival of Lights offer at Rosewood Luang Prabang is available for booking until September 30, 2024, for stays from October 15 to 18, 2024.
Global hospitality group The Lux Collective (TLC) announces the successful graduation of its first cohort of TLC Apprenticeship Programme across its resorts in Mauritius, who have completed their National Certificate Level 3 in Restaurant & Bar Service after a one-year intensive training. In partnership and accredited by the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development, this industry programme was fully designed and facilitated by The Lux Collective Training Academy (LIRTA Ltd), a certified training institution.
The National Certificate Level 3 in Restaurant & Bar Service programme, which commenced from April 2023 to April 2024, was developed upon an apprenticeship curriculum with a total of 2000 hours of theory, practical and placement combined, to optimise in-depth learning. In addition, it allowed the team members to enhance their Food and Beverage skills and knowledge as well as to receive high levels of professional training based on the company’s shining standards.
The graduation ceremony, held on 28 August at LUX* Grand Gaube, recognised the dedication and hard work of the 20 team members who had completed this rigorous training. The in-house talents were presented with their certificates in the presence of their invited family members, The Lux Collective’s senior management team and esteemed representatives from the Human Resources Development Council and Ministry of Education in Mauritius, who commended them for their strive towards excellence and continuous professional development. Three outstanding team members achieved distinctions.
Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective Mr Olivier Chavy says, “We are extremely proud of our very first cohort of the accredited TLC Apprenticeship Programme. This industry-led initiative is a part of the Group’s ongoing commitment and strong emphasis to invest in talent development and build personal career progression for our people – the pillar of our success, while ensuring continual highest standards of service and experiences for our guests.”
On the same occasion, the Group announced that another new cohort will enrol in the accredited Food & Beverage course starting in mid-September 2024 and will be awarded the National Certificate Level 2 upon completion.
The Peninsula London's Classic Car Afternoon Tea combines the quintessentially British tradition of taking tea with the golden age of motor racing and design. For just two weeks, from 4 September until 15 September, automotive aficionados and petrol heads are invited to book a limited-edition Afternoon Tea which celebrates past and present winners of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award. With sweet and savoury delicacies inspired by the past winners and finalists of this most elite of classic car Concours, this creative and impeccably-glamorous menu will be served in the presence of this year's winning vehicle, which will be on display in The Lobby of The Peninsula London for all to see.
The Peninsula London's Classic Car Afternoon Tea
Start your engines with stylish savouries followed by classic sandwiches
Delectable savouries are inspired by the design of the 1935 Duesenberg SJ Gurney Nutting, winner of The Peninsula Clas sics 2023 Best of the Best Award, including tomato gazpacho with burrata mousse, crab thermidor with Oscietra caviar, lobster salad with tarragon mayonnaise, and duck 'sausage roll' studded with dried fruits. Elegant, tricolour sandwiches are filled with smoked salmon and courgette, beef carpaccio with rocket, parmesan egg mayonnaise and dill-flecked cucumber and mint.
The Peninsula London's Classic Car Afternoon Tea
On your marques: dynamically-designed sweets
Alongside plain and raisin classic scones accompanied by clotted cream and a choice of strawberry and mint jam or lemon curd, are an array of delightfully-styled sweets. From zesty orange and chocolate 'Battenberg', which reflects the burnt orange and black glossiness of the winning Duesenberg, to the perfectly polished perfection an Earl-Grey infused blueberry and blackberry cake enrobed in sleek, white chocolate to commemorate the 1954 Ferrari 750Monza. A 1938 Delage Type D8-120 S Cabriolet is transformed as a ca ramel and banana eclair, and the sophisticated sweetness of peach and almond is crafted with vintage flair, in homage to the 1956 Jaguar D-Type Sports Racer. Make a final pit stop with a cooling ice cream bonbon, topped with its own micro-car.
Bringing Barry's signature hybrid-style training to the Saudi Arabian desert for the second year, Banyan Tree AlUla is inviting guests to embark on a journey of self-discovery against the majestic backdrop of the Ashar Valley. Returning exclusively for one weekend only – from Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 29 September – the Wellbeing Retreat will see the ethereal desert come alive with Barry's invigorating workouts and Banyan Tree AlUla's bespoke wellbeing experiences.
Banyan Tree AlUla
The thoughtfully planned itinerary includes:
3-night stay in a luxurious tented villa with full board
Four sessions of Barry's signature workouts
60-min spa treatment at Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree AlUla wellbeing classes
Destination dining experiences in the Ashar Valley and over a Stargazing Rawi
Healthy cooking class, followed by a lunch of guests' own creation
Airport transfers
Centred on Banyan Group's 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, guests will enjoy a generous schedule of activities that nourishes the mind, body, and soul – including four workout sessions hosted by Barry's expert instructors, Lina Antar and Farah Adra, as well as a heavy dose of relaxation – with morning yoga and stretching sessions among magical surroundings, evening sound healing sessions under the starry desert skies, and a spa treatment nestled between the soaring tawny-hued rocks.
The retreat will also include dining experiences at Harrat – Banyan Tree AlUla's acclaimed Middle Eastern restaurant that overlooks the mirrored Maraya concert hall, Saffron – Banyan Tree's signature Thai offering, as well as a special Bedouin Tent Dinner under the stars, while a healthy cooking class will let guests embrace their inner chef, learning the secrets to delicious and nutritious food.
With pockets of free time in the itinerary, guests can look forward to unwinding at the tranquil rock pool with the valley on the horizon, enjoying the exclusivity of their own private villa, or exploring AlUla's ancient local surroundings during their stay.
Prices for the Wellbeing Retreat with Barry's at Banyan Tree AlUla start at SAR3,900/USD$1,040 per person per night in a Dune One-Bedroom Villa, or SAR4,250/USD$1,130 per person per night in a Dune One-Bedroom Pool Villa. A minimum of two guests and three nights' stay (fixed dates from 26 to 29 September 2024) are required per booking. All meals, airport transfers, and scheduled activities as per the itinerary, are included in the rate.
For more information or to book the Wellbeing Retreat with Barry's at Banyan Tree AlUla, please visit https://www.banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/alula/offers/wellbeing-retreat-with-barrys.
The world’s largest swimming competition on the open water, Oceanman, will make a splash next month at Alma Resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula.
The gruelling 10km ‘Oceanman’ swim, 5km ‘Half Oceanman’ swim, 2km ‘Sprint’ swim, 3.5 km ‘Ocean Teams’ relay and 500m ‘Ocean Kids’ swim will start and finish on Alma’s beachfront during the event from September 6-8.
Two of Alma’s lifeguards will compete in the ‘Half Oceanman’ event
Stretching 13 kilometres, Long Beach, or Bai Dai in Vietnamese, is renowned as one of Asia’s most stunning beaches due to its aquamarine waters with islands strewn just offshore.
Oceanman’s official hotel partner Alma will host an anticipated 900 participants from almost 30 countries, as well as spectators and event organisers.
Open to male and female participants from seven to more than 70 years of age, Oceanman began in 2015. The competition has been held at 19 scenic locations worldwide including Bali, Thailand, Turkey, Spain, Italy, Ukraine, Mexico and Columbia. Next month’s swim series will mark Oceanman’s second year in Vietnam after it was also held in Cam Ranh in 2023.
Two of Alma’s lifeguards will compete in the ‘Half Oceanman’ event. Lifeguard Van Hien and lifeguard supervisor Le Van Thao have worked at Alma since 2019 and 2022 respectively.
Stretching 13 kilometres, Long Beach, or Bai Dai in Vietnamese, is renowned as one of Asia’s most stunning beaches due to its aquamarine waters with islands strewn just offshore
Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said the 30-hectare resort’s partnership with Oceanman afforded “an unparalleled setting that is bold, spacious and emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination”.
“We are so excited to welcome such a prestigious event to our remarkable oceanfront location and array of world-class facilities ranging from 12 swimming pools that cascade down to the beach to a water park replete with a lazy river, slides and wave pool,” said Laubichler-Pichler. “Oceanman’s ecological awareness is a good fit with Alma’s efforts to protect the environment, including the implementation of Vietnam’s most ambitious solar power project, and of course we will be cheering on the participants, particularly our lifeguards Hien and Thao, with gusto.”
Alma has been called out as the top resort in Southeast Asia, the No. 2 resort in Asia and No. 9 resort worldwide in this year’s Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. The US-based publication announced the winners of its World’s Best Awards last month, with Alma scoring 99.2 on the awards’ 100-point survey.
To contact Alma or to make a booking, please visit alma-resort.com, call +84 258 399 1666 or email info@alma-resort.com.
To find out more about the event, visit https://oceanmanswim.com/camranh-vietnam/.
