Industry News

The Meliá Collection arrives in Barrio de las Letras, with a hotel that seamlessly blends the cultural splendour of the past with the creative voices of today

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with PT Central Sudirman Development, for the first Andaz hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia. Slated to open in early 2028, the hotel will be an integral part of Two Sudirman Jakarta, a mixed-use two-tower development poised to be amongst the tallest skyscrapers in the country. Located in the heart of the central business district, the hotel will be the first Andaz-branded urban hotel in Indonesia complementing Andaz Bali, a resort that opened in 2021. Andaz Jakarta Sudirman will join Hyatt’s growing portfolio of 14 properties operating under the Alila, Andaz, Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Regency brands in Indonesia. “We are excited to work with PT Central Sudirman Development for the first time on these plans to bring the imaginative and self-expressive ethos of the Andaz brand to Jakarta,” said David Udell, group president, Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “Hyatt has had a brand presence in Indonesia for over 50 years. We are committed to thoughtful growth of our brands as we strengthen our position in the luxury, lifestyle, leisure and wellbeing space.” “We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Hyatt and the introduction of the prestigious Andaz brand to Jakarta through our Two Sudirman Jakarta development,” said Hendra Lubis, President Director of PT Central Sudirman Development. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering a world-class destination that combines luxury, innovation, and authentic local experiences. With Andaz Jakarta Sudirman, we aim to create a landmark that not only enhances Jakarta’s skyline but also enriches the city’s hospitality offerings, setting a new standard in urban living and hospitality excellence.” Construction has begun for Two Sudirman Jakarta, which is centrally located along Sudirman Street, the main street of Jakarta’s central business district. The development will have convenient access to MRT (Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit), LRT (Light Rapid Transit) and direct connectivity to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport through the Airport Rail Link, enabling travelers to seamlessly get around the city. The two towers will consist of residences, food and beverage outlets, retail spaces and offices. Andaz Jakarta Sudirman will occupy the 40th to 72nd floors of Tower A, offering sweeping city views. The hotel’s interiors, including the 198 hotel rooms and 167 serviced apartments, will be designed by Tokyo-based Design Studio Spin. Guests can look forward to the signature Andaz Lounge, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, meeting rooms, an all-day dining venue, a bar, and a specialty restaurant on the top floor.

Vietnam’s Alma Resort, named the top resort in Southeast Asia in this year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, has introduced a romantic package replete with a private candle-lit dinner for two on the beach, floating breakfast, and a couple’s massage. With rates starting at USD 170 net per night, the “Alma Amore” package includes a VIP welcome with sparkling wine and local artisanal chocolate-dipped fruits, daily international breakfast for two, daily sunset cocktails at Beach Bar affording panoramic views of Long Beach, and a nightly turndown service with romantic surprises. One picture-perfect floating breakfast is also included for couples staying at a pavilion with its own private pool. Vietnam’s Alma Resort Cumulative benefits include a 60-minute “Couple’s Indulgence” signature spa massage at Le Spa, a romantic candle-lit dinner for two on the beach and a Vietnamese cooking class for minimum stays of two nights, three nights and four nights respectively. Other Alma Amore perks include round-trip airport transfers, unlimited access to daily wellness activities, the fitness center and sports facilities as well as resort-wide high-speed Wi-Fi, and late check-out until 6pm. The “Paradise of Love” romantic dinner for two comprises a set-up of a candle-lit table on the sands of Long Beach with a private chef and waiter. Featuring highlights from the nearby ocean, such as oysters, prawns and lobster, the intimate five-course meal comprises salad, soup, fresh oysters, rose sorbet to clean the palate, a main of either ‘surf and turf’ grilled beef steak and prawns or baked half lobster thermidor, and dessert. The dinner includes a bottle of red or white. Vietnam’s Alma Resort As part of the Vietnamese cooking class at Atlantis, held at Alma’s beachfront restaurant Atlantis, the couple learn recipes that have been handed down the generations. Together they cook quintessential Vietnamese dishes including bò lá lốt (ground beef wrapped in betel leaves), chả giò tươi (fresh spring rolls) and phở (Vietnamese soup with bone broth, rice noodles and meat). 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 on July 9, with Alma scoring 99.2 on the awards’ 100-point survey. The World’s Best Awards are widely considered to be one of the two most important awards in the worldwide hospitality industry. Alma Amore is valid for stays until March 2025. To contact Alma or to make a booking, please visit alma-resort.com, call +84 258 399 1666 or email info@alma-resort.com.

Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, a premier resort nestled in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, today debuts a significant redesign effort that redefines back-to-nature luxury and sensibility in the Southeast. In collaboration with renowned design firm, Chad Dorsey Design, the renovation introduces fully refreshed public spaces, a new signature restaurant, Leatherflower, as well as two brand new Mountain Top Tree House Suites, representing the ultimate in elevated accommodations overlooking the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection The Lodge The heartbeat of the property, the Lodge is a regal structure with several welcoming gathering spaces that Chad Dorsey has reimagined with designs that blend casual sophistication with the warmth and hospitality synonymous with the Southeastern region that Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection calls home. Drawing from his roots in eastern Tennessee, Dorsey brings an understanding of the region's charm, and ethos as an outdoor, nature-based escape. "Inspired by elements that define a quintessential Virginia inn, we maintained the property's spirit and warmth throughout the common areas by blending elements that are reflective of local tradition," said Chad Dorsey owner of Chad Dorsey Design. "The use of warm textiles and details such as American quilts regionally inspired by Kyle Bunting, mix with contemporary touches throughout the spaces to align with the resort's world-class amenities." The Lodge's new Great Hall has refined interiors with custom furnishings that work together with antique pieces. In the Study, a custom desk and built-in bookshelves feature locally sourced artwork, books, and artifacts for guests to peruse as they engage with the guest service team. The room is encased by Pierre Frey wallcoverings in rich marigold hues, illustrating the dense Virginia forests and timeless landscapes of the region. A two-story space with views of the rolling fairways and Blue Ridge Mountains, The Great Hall, serves as the primary gathering place for guests. The new interiors showcase a blend of antique, American, European, and custom furniture. Plaid and floral fabrics add depth and texture, while handcrafted wooden mantels encasing two fireplaces create inviting focal points, for gathering, sharing stories and making new memories in Virginia's Highlands. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Culinary Innovations The introduction of Leatherflower, the property's newest farm-to-table restaurant, anchors the enhancement project. Recently awarded the Best of Award of Excellence among Wine Spectator's 2024 Restaurant Awards, Primland's signature restaurant embodies the best of Virginia's culinary scene with a design that conveys the whimsical spirit of the South. A bespoke epicurean journey through the tastes of Southern Appalachia, Leatherflower, much like the native Clematis flower that inspired its name, features dishes deeply rooted in the bounty of the land. Open daily for breakfast and dinner, the restaurant is helmed by Executive Chef Zach Long and offers seasonal menus that showcase ingredients from the property's farm and greenhouse, as well as local mills, farms and suppliers. Menu highlights include sorghum lacquered quail with smashed purple sweet potato and collards, breaded Cheshire pork cutlet and grass-fed dry-aged Niman Ranch ribeye. Thoughtfully designed, exposed beams, floral grasscloth wallcovering, and expansive windows frame the stunning landscape views of the 18-hole championship-caliber golf course. Finely detailed furniture, including elegant dining tables and upholstered chairs and banquettes, reflects a high appreciation for artisanal craft, and invites guests to revel in panoramic views of the majestic mountains beyond through intimate seating arrangements. Vibrant patterns in blue, green, coral, and cream capture the spirit of the outdoors, and abundant greenery provides continuity with the flora outside, immersing guests in this unique culinary experience. New Mountain Top Tree Houses Finally, the completion of two new Mountain Top Tree Houses marks a significant addition to the resort's luxury suite accommodations. Built into the trees and perched above the Dan River Gorge, the new Tree House suites overlook the Kibler Valley with sprawling views of the breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife surrounds. Custom programming and dining experiences curated exclusively for these private treetop hideaways invite guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying modern amenities. With these latest design transformations, Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection continues its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and comfortable luxury defined by its Blue Ridge, Virginia roots.

Package is one of two limited-time offers curated by pioneering Phuket resort this summer.

Viva Resorts by Wyndham announced the launch of the Viva Pro Rewards Program, a game-changing initiative designed to deliver rewards for  travel advisors when booking stays at their all-inclusive resorts. Launched in May 2024, this program is already making waves among travel advisors in the U.S., Chile, Colombia, Peru and Puerto Rico with plans to expand to more markets worldwide. Viva Resorts by Wyndham The Viva Pro Rewards Program offers travel advisors incredible flexibility and the opportunity to earn rewards instantly. With a simple application process and the ability to cash commissions anytime, advisors have flexible options for redeeming their points. They can choose between cash, Amazon gift cards, or all-inclusive stays at any Viva Resort by Wyndham. Notably, opting for hotel stays lets advisors use their points at 1.5 times their value, offering the best deal. "We created the Viva Pro Rewards Program to give back to the travel advisors who have been such an integral part of our brand and growth," says Gilda Noboa, Viva’s director of sales & marketing. "This program offers them the flexibility to use their rewards whenever and however they want, making it thoroughly different from what other brands offer." Viva Resorts by Wyndham The process to join the Viva Pro Rewards Program is straightforward and user-friendly. First, travel advisors register at www.vivaprorewards.com, providing valid credentials and keeping essential information all in one place. Once verified, they enter the details of their bookings made through traditional tour operators.  Each advisor is able to access their bookings through dedicated profiles, making it easy to see just how much they are earning. The system then automatically calculates and updates the rewards earned from each booking. Points are easily accessible and can be redeemed at any time, giving advisors the chance to enjoy the fruits of their hard work whenever they choose. For more information on the Viva Pro Rewards Program and to start earning today, visit www.vivaprorewards.com or contact Viva Wyndham’s support team at prorewards@vivaresortsusa.com.

The Anam Cam Ranh’s casual dining hangout Beach Club has introduced an irresistible dining experience dedicated to the quintessential comfort food, the humble burger.  Every Monday from 12-3pm on the resort’s beach lawn overlooking Long Beach’s white sand and aquamarine waters, the Beach Club’s chefs fire up their barbecues for “Burger Day”, offering diners a choice of four delectable burgers. The “Char-grilled Beef Banh Mi” is a Vietnamese baguette with char-grilled lemongrass and chili beef, coriander, pickles and beef jus. The “Wagyu Beef Burger” comprises a Wagyu beef patty, cos lettuce, tomato, pickles and garlic mayo sauce. The “Crispy Chicken Burger” features deboned crispy chicken thigh, cos lettuce, tomato and thousand island sauce. For a Vietnamese take on a burger, the “Char Siu Banh Mi” is a Vietnamese baguette with pork meatloaf, grilled char siu, herbs, pickles and BBQ sauce. The “Char-grilled Beef Banh Mi” is also a Vietnamese baguette with char-grilled lemongrass and chili beef, coriander, pickles and beef jus. Every Monday from 12-3pm on the resort’s beach lawn overlooking Long Beach’s white sand and aquamarine waters, the Beach Club’s chefs fire up their barbecues for “Burger Day”, offering diners a choice of four delectable burgers. Each burger is priced at 380,000 VND and accompanied with fries, a fruit bowl and either a soft drink or Saigon Beer. “Burgers are the best, particularly when they are what we call real burgers,” said The Anam Group’s group general manager Laurent Myter. “In a far cry to the scourge of fast food, at The Anam Cam Ranh we make the burger buns and baguettes fresh from scratch, the meat is quality - juicy and tender - and the likes of lettuce, tomatoes and coriander are farm-to-table fresh.” For further information or to make a booking, visit www.theanam.com, email info.cr@theanam.com or telephone +(84) 258 398 9499.

The trailblazing new company is revolutionising sailing tourism, making onboard holidays more simple and fulfilling than ever

Aman Group has officially revealed its first standalone branded residences, the Aman Residences Tokyo designed by Yabu Pushelberg. Currently operating 35 properties around the world, the Aman Residences Tokyo is the first of its kind. The latest residences in Japan’s capital sits in Tokyo’s tallest residential building, the Mori JP Tower by Pelli Clarke & Partners. The completed project is a part of the Azabudai Hills development and towers over the city at 1,066 feet. Blending Asian and European influences, Yabu Pushelberg brings its hospitality prowess to the residences to create a “quiet but strong” addition to the group’s offerings. Aman Residences Tokyo Co-founder Glenn Pushelberg “We wanted to convey a clear, powerful personality that remains true to the Aman brand.” The residences include 91 fully serviced residences, each with its own private entrances and dedicated elevator. The luxurious and private experience begins immediately, with each residence having its own grandiose entry and soaring ceiling heights and usable square footage. The residents will enjoy exclusive hotel-like amenities that include communal spaces like a lounge, bar, private dining room, tea room, library, reading room, media room and games room. It also features its own Aman Spa as well as a 25 m indoor pool, sauna, steam and relaxation room alongside a gym and two treatment rooms. The residences also include a public art collection curated by the Mori Art Foundation. Aman Residences Tokyo is the first to open amongst 13 other branded ones set to expand to Bangkok, Beverly Hills, Miami and Niseko.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s jewel in the crown, 360-degree rooftop bar Mai The Sky Bar, will welcome an award-winning bartender next month to concoct an imaginative selection of Thai-inspired cocktails. Benz Naphat Boonmamuang, a.k.a “Mr B”, who hails from Chiang Mai and has been recognized among Thailand’s top mixologists, will “take over” Mai The Sky Bar on Friday August 2 from 7pm until midnight. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas Perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor, Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in Chiang Mai – offers spectacular views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas. Mr B, the beverage and bar manager at Anantara Chiang Mai’s Brit Bar at 1921 House, has more than a decade’s experience of mixology under his belt. He has been recognised in the prestigious “World Class Thailand” Bartender of the Year Awards, named the second runner runner-up in the 2024 awards and a finalist in 2023. He was also the first runner-up at the Giffrad West Cup this year and a finalist in the Dewar’s Highball Challenge last year. His Thai-inspired cocktails on offer during the takeover include a highball cocktail dubbed “Poy Luang”, which means a grand celebration featuring a lively procession dominated by the sounds of the gamelan. Paying homage to traditional drinking customs where alcohol is typically consumed with pickled fruit, the cocktail features a homemade wild apple sparkling juice - made from wild apples, galangal and citron grown by the Doi Ang hill tribe community in Chiang Mai’s Fang District - mixed with Johnnie Walker Black Label Whiskey. The cocktail is garnished with plum-soaked citron wrapped in edible plastic; a nod to the world’s need to reduce plastic use. Mr B has been recognised in the prestigious “World Class Thailand” Bartender of the Year Awards, named the second runner runner-up in the 2024 awards and a finalist in 2023. He was also the first runner-up at the Giffrad West Cup this year and a finalist in the Dewar’s Highball Challenge last year Mr B’s selection of cocktails complement Mai The Sky Bar’s menu featuring dishes underpinned by local sustainable and organic farming. Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish roots, the city’s most happening venue’s vibrant menu serves a variety of tapas and pinchos, grazing boards and desserts under sections dubbed “Para Picar”, “Tableros” and “Postres” respectively. Mai The Sky Bar’s resident DJ will spin commercial house music, afrobeats, pop and dancehall tunes from 8pm. Entry to Mai The Sky Bar for Mr B’s takeover is THB 250 net per person, with credit towards food and drinks. For further information or to make a reservation, email maiskybar@melia.com or call +66 52 090 600.

Boutique Hotel Alhambra on Lošinj Island has been honoured as one of the select few to join the prestigious ‘Finest Collection’ by Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH). This new and exclusive group includes only 21 SLH member hotels, representing less than 4% of the current SLH portfolio. Boutique Hotel Alhambra is Croatia’s first and only hotel to be part of this prestigious collection.  Boutique Hotel Alhambra The Finest Collection embodies the essence of SLH, featuring hotels that are considered destinations in their own right, revered by the luxury travel community, and recognised as icons of the industry. These hotels are celebrated SLH brand champions, setting the standard for luxury hospitality worldwide. Boutique Hotel Alhambra’s inclusion in the Finest Collection underscores its commitment to service beyond expectations and its dedication to providing an immersive luxury experience. The selection process was rigorous, with a panel of luxury travel experts identifying the 21 hotels that meet the stringent criteria: Exceptional Inspection Scores: An average inspection score of at least 90% over the last three years, with the latest inspection score exceeding 90%. Impeccable Online Presence: Revered by the luxury travel community, including accolades from American Express, Forbes Travel Guide, Virtuoso, and the Michelin Guide. Essence of SLH: Demonstrating that they capture the essence of SLH and merit a trip as a destination in their own right. Boutique Hotel Alhambra’s inclusion in the SLH Finest Collection is a testament to its unwavering dedication to providing an extraordinary guest experience.

The UK’s largest independent hotel group has announced its transformative rebranding – reflecting its dedication to exceeding guest expectations and delivering exceptional experiences across its growing portfolio of hotels. Bespoke Hotels, a collection of over 70 independent hotels across the length of the British Isles, has announced a comprehensive rebranding that features a refreshed website, new brochures, and a more prominent identity. This evolution strengthens Bespoke Hotel’s commitment and value to its partners, stakeholders and guests, while helping to solidify its position as a leader in the hospitality industry. The updated brand reflects Bespoke Hotels’ strategic focus on expansion, allowing it to cater to a wider range of travellers and destinations. Despite the evolution, the brand’s core values of great service, a flair for hospitality and recognition that guests want to be treated like an individual remain paramount. The multi-faceted approach includes significant investment into a newly refreshed website aimed at increasing its direct booking channel, as well as distributing a leisure breaks brochure across all hotels to promote cross-selling within the portfolio. Each hotel will also receive a plaque identifying it as part of the Bespoke Hotel family, further solidifying the brand’s presence. Thomas Greenall, Chief Executive Officer Speaking about the rebranding, Thomas Greenall, Chief Executive Officer of Bespoke Hotels, said: “This isn’t just a visual refresh; it’s a comprehensive strategy designed to create lasting value for our stakeholders. As we look to the future, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve and innovating to provide value to our owners and meet the ever-changing needs of our guests. We thank everyone for their continued support as we embark on this exciting new chapter.” 2024 has been particularly noteworthy for Bespoke Hotels, marked by the strengthening of its existing portfolio through a series of development projects. This includes the opening of two new Gotham locations, along with several hotel openings and refurbishments across the collection.