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From sound bath sessions and deep relaxation yoga to tension-melting treatments in a Cave Spa, here are five reasons why you should consider Crete for your next wellness retreat.   Spa Treatments in Unique Settings  The Sea Cave Spa at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort offers a heated indoor pool, massage rooms, a steam room, and even an ice fountain all within a unique setting. The retreat has an extensive list of treatments including facials, nail, and hair services so guests can look and feel their best selves while making the most of their Cretan holiday. Try the Sea Cave Signature Ritual and enjoy a full body and face massage that will leave your skin deeply hydrated and glowing for days.  The Bath House at ACRO Suites is the place where guests can refresh and take the weight of the world off their shoulders. Inspired by the notion of hammams, this luxury spa promotes wellbeing, health, and purifying the soul. There is a plethora of rejuvenating treatments to help you unwind, including the Aromatic Wandering treatment, an aromatherapy massage using a blend of gentle to firm techniques combined with organic essential oils from Greek aromatic plants. For those who prefer the ambiance of their quarters, the treatments can also be booked in your suite.    Sound Bath and Deep Relaxation Yoga Sessions   Both resorts are hosting NEW sound bath and deep relaxation yoga sessions at the Asana Yoga Shala, a magnificent piece of architecture, built entirely out of bamboo, dedicated to wellness.   In June and July, Manolis Zografakis, a certified sound therapist and meditation practitioner, will be hosting sound bath sessions with the aim of guiding guests through a spiritual journey of reconnection and discovery of the inner self, back into a natural state of balance and harmony.   This season, guests can also enjoy a new weekly deep relaxation session every Sunday evening. The practice taps into the art of yoga nidra (conscious yogic sleep) complete with a guided meditation. This type of yoga refers to conscious sleep, where the body rests while the mind remains aware and active.    Features That Will Elevate Your Sleep  To ensure high-quality sleep, the team at ACRO Suites has invested in top-of-the-range Simmons mattresses that are hypoallergenic and aerated. The hotel also offers a special pillow menu for guests with a variety of options to satisfy different density preferences. With every turn-down service, guests are offered a special pillow mist that contains a blend of calming essential oils with a note to inform guests that their wellness crew is at their disposal in case any tips or advice is needed to improve their sleep.    Suites and Villas with Panoramic Sea Views   Seaside A Lifestyle Resort boasts 245 rooms and suites, some with private pools, which offer all the tranquillity and comfort guests could ask for. Each room is elegantly decorated and draws on the island’s natural palette of whites, terracotta, and neutral tones with a boho-chic design. All rooms and suites have contemporary amenities with a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere in each space.  Muted tones, sleek décor and minimalistic aesthetics run throughout each accommodation option at ACRO Suites, from sea view suites with private infinity pools to the Sunset Villa on the West Cliffside, offering a divine mix of ocean blue and golden sunset views. A firm favourite for many guests is the Cave Suite featuring custom-made wooden furniture, stone, and natural elements throughout, raw silk bed covers, spectacular sea views and a private pool.    Local Dishes with a Fine-Dining Twist   The signature restaurant at ACRO Suites, Cremnos, offers a highly nutritional menu, derived from fresh, organic ingredients sourced from farms around the island. Each dish has been specifically curated to provide the optimum amount of nutrients that are so beneficial to our health. For those who favour Asian plates, the Umi restaurant offers delicious Nikkei cuisine – a combination of delicate Japanese dishes infused with the punchiness of Peruvian flavours.   Veranda, the main restaurant at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with spectacular views overlooking the bay. The Minoan Cretan Tavern introduces guests to natural and local ingredients while Kullinarium offers dinner in a romantic candlelit setting. This season Seaside will has unveiled a NEW bar which boasts a sleek design for those looking to enjoy a drink in a cosy setting.  Most excitingly, both resorts are organising special dining events this summer hosted by two Michelin Star chefs, Bjorn Swanson, and Liam Rogers, with the resort’s exemplary chefs by their side. Guests can look forward to fine dining dishes featuring seasonal Cretan produce, all expertly cooked and beautifully presented. 

From 1 October 2023, the luxury cruising “resort” will introduce Four Seasons travellers to the western Pacific Island nation of Palau, with daily embarkations to true adventure. Remote and untouched – imagine a beautiful wilderness awash with natural and cultural wonders. Four Seasons Explorer is setting sail to one of the world's last remaining frontiers beginning later this year. Hidden in a remote part of the mighty Pacific, discover Palau – home to more than 340 emerald islands, an astonishing spectrum of marine life, and a 4,000-year-old culture still sustained by the local knowledge of 20,000 traditionally minded people - the most vital element of the unique Palauan culture.Referred to as one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World, with a half million square kilometres (193,000 square miles) of protected marine territory, Palau offers glorious opportunities for divers and snorkellers. But that’s just the start of the island nation’s wondrous appeal. With only 9 of the country’s 340 islands inhabited, opportunities for raw natural adventure abound, while deep cultural immersions range from insights into the rich Palauan dance tradition – awash with powerful chanting, storytelling and vibrant colours – to intriguing exploration of WWII sites, symbolic bai meeting houses, and centuries of Spanish, German, Japanese and American influences.“The core Palauan value of omengull – respecting all and everything – deeply aligns with our values at Four Seasons,” notes Regional Vice President Armando Kraenzlin. “Right from the Palauan Pledge that all visitors are asked to sign upon arrival, visitors are immersed in one of the world’s most unique cultures, founded on tradition and respect. It’s a thrilling paradise for anyone seeking harmony with nature, and the opportunity to learn and embrace the unique Palauan way of life.”Be among the first to experience Palau with Four Seasons Explorer: Reservations for the first adventures in late 2023 are now being confirmed, with several opening offers and daily embarkation options to choose from.  Call (960) 66 00 888, email:  reservations.pme@fourseasons.com or book online to begin the adventure. Discover One of the World’s Last Remaining Natural FrontiersMore than 1,400 species of fish and 500 species of healthy corals thrive in Palau’s crystal waters and elevated lakes. The nation became the world’s first shark sanctuary in 2009, covering more than 600,000 square kilometres of ocean (230,000 square miles) while the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Palau’s astonishing spectrum of ocean life make it a paradise for swimming, snorkelling and diving.With a draft of 1.9 metres (6.23 feet), Four Seasons Explorer can access locations that larger vessels can't reach, while its PADI 5-Star Dive Centre ensures expert multi-lingual instructors, the latest gear and onboard videographer, as well as custom-designed dive and excursion boats for direct entry to even the most inaccessible dive sites.Bucket-list amazement lies around every corner for divers, from the glittering stalactite formations of Chandelier Cave to the WWII history of Helmet Wreck; the gorgonian fans of Blue Corner to the dazzling canyons of Peleliu Wall. Experiences are equally awe-inspiring for snorkellers: millions of stingless golden and moon jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake; giant 115 kilogram (250 pounds) tridacna clams in Clam City; rabbitfish, turtles and goatfish in the crystal clear Ngedebus Coral Gardens—all accessed via guided excursions with Four Seasons marine biologists. Cultural Explorations The scattered islands of Micronesia’s Palau are home to a unique culture and intriguing heritage bound by a deep respect for the environment that has sustained generations of people. Four Seasons Explorer on-shore excursions are handled by insightful guides and include visiting Palau's oldest bai (meeting house); exploring the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, estimated to date back to the year 161; marvelling at the cave paintings of Ulong Island; discovering the Belau National Museum, multiple WWII sites, traditional music, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and more. Recreational activities on offer include windsurfing, stand-up paddling and kayaking, while wellness experiences showcase soothing yoga, breathing and restorative treatments on-board or on a secluded beach. Explorer guests can bathe in mineral-rich mud, learn traditional Palauan fishing techniques, hike, bird-watch or even learn to pronounce a few Palauan phrases. A World of Culinary CreativityAboard Four Seasons Explorer, each day begins with an array of à-la-carte breakfast choices. Meals served on-board are all-inclusive (with the exception of alcoholic beverages) with lunch and dinner menus changing daily, themed on regional creations from Palau and elsewhere in the Pacific, as well as Asia and the West. Highlights include regular beach barbecues complete with insights into Palauan music and culture – always with fresh (and where possible, local) ingredients – gourmet flourishes and an extensive wine list. A Floating ResortFour Seasons Explorer operates like a floating resort, offering daily embarkations and disembarkations, allowing up to 22 guests to explore as deeply – and for as long – as they wish. With the freedom to focus on personal areas of interest among Palau’s many bucket-list wonders, both underwater and on land, all adventures are entirely bespoke. Guests can also look forward to a variety of on-board experiences, from connecting with Palauan people, chefs and musicians to learning from expert marine biologists and indulging in wellness experiences with spa therapists and yogis. Multi-Destination DiscoveryGiven its remote location, Palau is ideally experienced in conjunction with other nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is currently accessible via Taipei, Honolulu, Guam, Manila and Brisbane, with the island nation well placed for further exploration of Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan and other islands of Oceania such as Yap, Chuuk and the Federated States of Micronesia. Private ChartersFour Seasons Explorer will also be available for fully customizable private yacht charters in Palau for groups of up to 22 – including dedicated charters for surf enthusiasts with the experts from Tropicsurf, from uncrowded “best-kept secret” breaks on the east and west coast reefs to adventurous “surfaris” off the country’s fringing islands during the winter months. 

Qatar Tourism has installed an official monument on the Doha Corniche, in recognition of Doha’s landmark Arab Tourism Capital for 2023 title, which was awarded by the Arab Ministerial Council earlier this year. The monument, which reflects the official Doha Arab Tourism Capital 2023 logo, is positioned in a photogenic location on the Corniche. The design of the monument was inspired by the slogan of Doha Capital of Arab Tourism 2023, which reflects the city of Doha as a modern centre for tourism rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Since Doha received the prestigious award, Qatar’s tourism sector has welcomed an incredible start to the year. With over a million visitors in the first quarter of 2023, Qatar registered its highest ever first quarter of international arrivals. In April, Qatar Tourism announced the re-launch of the Hayya platform in its new form, inviting tourists who currently need a visa to Qatar to enjoy the country’s famously warm Arabian hospitality and diverse touristic offering. The Hayya platform unifies all visa process for tourists and business visas to Qatar.

The boutique hospitality group by Venetian entrepreneur Antonio Onorato, expands its footprint with a new location that blends gastronomy, glass art and contemporary design

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today unveils its newest property in Clearwater Beach, Florida, with the opening of JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. Located along a secluded stretch of what has consistently been named “America’s Best Beach,” the luxurious new beachside property creates an oasis of coastal elegance and offers a serene destination to reflect and recharge. “We are excited to welcome JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa to the brand portfolio and continue to showcase the best in holistic well-being,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “The first beachfront property to be designed from the ground up, this new resort completely embodies our commitment to offering an experience that revitalizes mind, body and spirit.” A Waterfront SanctuaryWhether it’s soaking in the sun from the resort’s secluded beach, gazing out at striking views of the Gulf of Mexico from the privacy of one’s balcony, or indulging in one of the resort’s numerous food and beverage destinations, guests can find moments of serenity and heightened sensory experiences at every turn. The resort’s 162 guestrooms and 36 spacious Residences were designed to reflect the brand’s central belief - that true luxury is having the time and space to focus on what matters most – oneself. Offering a JW Market, full-service Spa by JW, 24-hour Fitness Center, JW Kids Club, and rooftop pool deck, the property caters to business, leisure and multi-generational travelers. All guestrooms feature complimentary use of two beach chairs and access to daily fitness classes offered in the resort’s well-appointed fitness center or outside in nature. The 11th floor rooftop pool deck offers striking views of the Gulf and Sand Key – the perfect vantage point to watch the boats sail by. Designed to Capture the Essence of ClearwaterThe newly built resort brings a captivating and distinct building architecture to the destination, characterized by a coastal turquoise color. As guests transition from the Porte Cochere, where they are greeted with welcoming valet service, they enter a serene reception area that is defined by ‘Seagrass,’ a sculpture created by local artist Carrie Jadus. Around the corner, guests will discover ‘Wave’- a ceiling piece designed by artist Mark Aeling. Vision Makers, the development arm of Dr. Kiran C. Patel, selected a team of acclaimed local and national architects and designers whose collaborative efforts resulted in a seamless transition from the beautiful outdoors to inspiring interiors. CallisonRTKL’s interior design includes a careful level of detail throughout that is complemented by soothing and enticing lighting by designer CM Kling. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows frame an idyllic outdoor sitting area and beyond. Unexpected touches of art deco-inspired glamour sit alongside rustic elegance and woven textures resulting in uniquely chic comfort. Nature and sustainable practices underscore the resort’s design ethos, blending different textures, like waves and woven patterns, to perfectly encapsulate the essence of the destination. Each guestroom features calming neutral tones and sleek details designed to ease one’s mind and beckon towards the private balcony. Hidden in plain sight are subtle sparkles of quartz crystal, while driftwood tones and rippling motifs represent the coming together of sand and water. A Feast for the SensesElevated food and beverage concepts subtly reinvent local flavors while welcoming global influence to the region. Ushering in a new layer of sophistication to Clearwater Beach, culinary creations are led by Executive Chef Inder Suryawanshi and Sous Chef Soumi Hazra, this year’s winner of Marriott International’s prestigious Master of the Craft culinary competition. Ingredients from the resort’s own JW Garden as well as fresh, local produce come together to create seasonal specials, such as Chef Suryawanshi’s award-winning wagyu with a tomato gel and red chimichurri. Named for its Clearwater Beach location, Latitude 28 opens daily for breakfast and dinner and features a fine-dining, seasonal Mediterranean coastal menu that can be enjoyed within the restaurant’s design-forward dining room or alfresco on its spacious patio – one of the destination’s only restaurants offering true beachfront dining. House-made pastas and bread baked every morning elevate standout dishes such as the Smoked Burrata, Soujouk Pide, and Octopus Santorini. The resort’s casual mid-day beachfront bar and grill, Eskape, offers classic Floridian dishes, including Gulf Shrimp Tacos, paired perfectly with tropically-inspired crafted cocktails served to guests at their beach lounger or cabana. At the 11th floor rooftop restaurant and bar, The Deep End, guests will find an inventive Nikki-Peruvian menu, highlighting authentic dishes such as the Lomo Saltada, served alongside unforgettable panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and the hotel’s lively pool deck. The perfect vantage point for taking in Clearwater Beach’s stunning sunsets each evening, visitors can sip and savor a multitude of cocktails and mocktails, including the Caipirinha and Pisco Sour while relishing the vibrant sights, tastes, smells, and sounds. An Elevated Events DestinationThe resort is home to more than 20,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor event space designed to host a variety of celebrations, meetings and events. All meeting rooms and ballrooms are outfitted with state-of-the-art audio-visual and multimedia technology. Four breakout spaces and an executive boardroom offer floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding meeting spaces with natural light. A unique executive boardroom provides a spacious meeting table, separate lounge seating area, and dry bar, making it well-suited for a variety of uses such as corporate offsites but also as the perfect spot for brides or grooms to get ready for their big day in the company of family and friends. The property is located within a short walking distance of the best of Clearwater Beach, from nightly entertainment at popular Pier 60 to a variety of boating and water sports offerings at the marina and countless bars and restaurants. “Classic charm meets a laid-back, seaside atmosphere to create a wholly unique experience,” said Michael Manzari, General Manager. “We are thrilled to welcome visitors and provide them with an intimate and calm getaway, offering a mix of luxury, sophistication, and barefoot elegance.” For more information, please visit JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. Images are available for download through Box.com. About JW MarriottJW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. About Marriott Bonvoy®Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Radisson Hotel Group announces the signing of its first affordable, high design prizeotel property in the UK & Ireland region. Scheduled to open in Q1 2025 in Dublin, this landmark property follows a series of exciting signing and opening announcements for the prizeotel brand as it targets accelerated growth across EMEA in 2023. Located on the prominent James Street in Dublin, prizeotel Dublin will be situated in the “Liberties” area, one of Dublin’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods just outside of the medieval walled city, dating back to the twelfth century. Remnants of the old city wall can still be seen today at the corner of Cornmarket and St Audoen’s park, only 1.7km away from the hotel. Over the last few years, the “Liberties” area has transformed into a vibrant cultural destination where Michelin-starred restaurants rub shoulders with old-school markets and prominent global technology firms. The area was named the 15th coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out magazine in 2021.  prizeotel Dublin will be within walking distance to The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), home to the national collection of modern and contemporary art with over 3,500 artworks by Irish and international artists, and a short distance from the world-famous Guinness Brewery and Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, and St Patrick’s Cathedral.  The hotel will feature 145 rooms decorated in a mix of urban style and relaxed ambience, in addition to a restaurant and bar which will span across 250m2 of the lobby on the ground floor, and where guests will be encouraged to ‘meet-and-mingle’.  prizeotel offers a midscale lifestyle experience with a unique and eclectic personality, at the investment cost of an economy hotel. Each property is a bright, energized space for travelers looking for more modern living spaces, a meeting place for an international community and an inspiring place to work, network and socialize. Technology and sustainability play key roles in the prizeotel guest experience. Digital check-in and tech-focused rooms with wireless charging directly beside the bed, a large number of power sockets to charge all devices, and free, fast Wi-Fi will be available throughout the hotel. This newly built prizeotel will be a certified green building aiming for a BREEAM certification, implementing the Hotel Sustainability Basics as well as the prizePromise, a holistic approach to sustainability, from construction and design to a fully responsible travel guest experience, with its unique 100% carbon neutral stays.  Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We are very excited to announce the signing of our first prizeotel property in the UK and Ireland region after the brand’s fantastic growth across central Europe in 2022. We have a solid portfolio of Radisson Hotel Group brands across Ireland and this new property will be a welcomed addition.”  Kevin Beary, Managing Director of Amhola Capital Ireland comments: “We look forward to working with Radisson Hotel Group in delivering Ireland’s first prizeotel to the local market, an exciting project which will complement the adjoining hospital campus and benefit the local economy greatly in terms of job creation and business generation. We believe Dublin prizeotel will be well received by the tourist and corporate market in an area which is underserved by quality hotel offerings. We also look forward to working with the wider Radisson Hotel Group brand offerings including prizeotel on other viable projects and locations both in Ireland and in Continental Europe as good development opportunities arise”.  The first prizeotel property opened in 2009 in Germany and presented a new concept of the novel budget design hotel. The successful combination of smart lifestyle with affordable accommodation prices continued to be rolled out in Germany and Austria in 2022 with new prizeotel openings in Bonn, Vienna, and Münster. The brand is currently present in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium, and includes 17 properties, representing more than 3,400 rooms. Additional openings and signings in exciting European destinations will be announced soon with a particular focus on the UK & Ireland.  The signing of prizeotel Dublin will complement Radisson Hotel Group’s existing portfolio in Dublin, consisting of Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin, Radisson Blu Hotel, St Helens, and Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin Airport.

Radisson Hotel Group is pleased to announce the debut of its bold and cutting edge upscale Radisson RED brand in Serbia with the signing of Radisson RED Belgrade, set to open later this year. Located just minutes from the capital’s historic center, Radisson RED is the first Radisson RED branded hotel to be operated by PPHE Hotel Group’s Croatian subsidiary Arena Hospitality Group. This collaboration is made possible under the extended strategic partnership between Radisson Hotel Group and PPHE Hotel Group, through which both companies intend to leverage each other’s brands and strengths. Radisson RED Belgrade is located on Takovska near the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia and will offer 88 rooms including three suites. The progressive design scheme has been created by London and Zagreb based Atellior design studio and includes a signature red Zastava 750 car, manufactured by the former renowned Yugoslavian car factory in Kragujevac, in the lobby as a prime feature. Guests will be able to use the hotel’s self-check-in terminals or the hotel’s app to access their rooms, control any of the room features or order food and drinks. The hotel will offer an all-day restaurant on the ground floor and the property’s top floor is home to a co-working space, flexible event spaces including game areas and a rooftop bar with views of the historic city center.  Belgrade is one of Europe’s oldest cities and is easily accessible from neighboring countries, from key European airports and there are direct flight connections to and from the United States and the Middle East. It offers several historic landmark sites and is Serbia’s main commercial center today. Radisson RED Belgrade is the third hotel of Radisson Hotel Group in the city, joining Radisson Collection Hotel, Old Mill Belgrade and Belgrade Art Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals.  “With the signing of Radisson RED Belgrade, we expand the presence of Radisson RED in Southeast Europe and take yet another significant step in our strategy of bringing this vibrant brand to travelers around the world. This is our second hotel under our extended partnership with PPHE Hotel Group and their Croatian subsidiary Arena Hospitality Group, following the launch of Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, a Radisson Collection Hotel in May 2022,” says Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group.  Reli Slonim, President of the Management Board and Chief Executive Officer of Arena Hospitality Group, adds: “We are excited to be opening Radisson RED Belgrade and are confident it will be well received by guests. This opening will mark another exciting year for our Group, with art’otel Zagreb opening in the Croatian capital this summer and additional property upgrades well under way and planned.”

Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading multi-branded hospitality groups, is set to debut in Europe with the upcoming Banyan Tree Varko Bay. The new luxury resort to be developed on the Varko Peninsula in Pogonia, Aitoloakarnania, is the result of the successful collaboration between Banyan Tree and the French hospitality group, Accor. Targeting to open in 2026, the five-star resort will consist of approximately 116 villas and 43 branded residences, seamlessly embedded into the stunning coastal surroundings of the Varko Peninsula in Pogonia. Applying Banyan Tree’s pioneering expertise across the all-pool villa concept, the resort aims to offer a unique sense of place through tranquil, wellbeing-centred accommodations, backdropped by unforgettable views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding islands of Lefkada, Meganisi and Skorpios, as well as luxurious facilities for rejuvenation of both mind and body. This includes the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, a water sports center, several state-of-the-art venues for meetings and events, a beach club, several bars and three restaurants including the signature Saffron where guests can dine on delectable Thai fare.In keeping with Banyan Tree’s core pillar of sustainability, Banyan Tree Varko Bay will be constructed and operated with an uncompromising approach to sustainability and eco-sensitivity, immersing guests in a flourishing natural environment. Built in partnership with the award-winning Greek Elastic Architects, the resort aims to be the first in Europe to achieve LEED Gold (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and to become a model of sustainability for the hospitality sector. Mirroring existing Banyan Tree developments, the resort will prioritise responsible water use—70% of water will be reused for irrigation, the use of renewable energy sources and the encouragement of vegetation growth. By ensuring the majority of all its hotels are covered with vegetation and developing plant-centred tropical spas, Banyan Tree creates beautiful contemporary spaces that are also friendly to the surrounding environment.Banyan Tree Group operates over 60 hotels worldwide, with a potential pipeline of more than 50 projects  by 2025. The addition of Banyan Tree Varko Bay will build on the brand’s core concepts of sustainability and wellbeing-centred luxury, while reinforcing Banyan Tree’s leadership in this highly demanding sector.

Ascott expects to open 70 properties across its brands in key travel destinations this year. Co-living brand, lyf, will welcome seven new properties in Austria, China, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand, answering the need for meaningful spaces that allow for interaction among the next generation of travellers. The Citadines brand, which focuses on city living and lifestyle experiences, will add 21 properties in cities like Yokohama, Japan; Sydney, Australia; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; and Jakarta, Indonesia as well as Amsterdam, Netherlands and Vienna, Austria farther afield. To cater to the growing trend of family vacations and multigenerational trips, Ascott will open an additional 11 Somerset properties this year. There will be several new openings in China, such as Somerset Tangzhen Shanghai, Somerset Star River Minhang Shanghai, Somerset Taihu New City CBD Wuxi, Somerset Fengdong Xi’an, Somerset Changxin Hefei and Somerset Chayuan Chongqing. Other openings are set for Bandung and Jakarta in Indonesia; Cebu and Makati in the Philippines; and Vienna. For the bleisure demographic, Oakwood will open in Chongli, China and Bali, Indonesia. The Ascott brand, which will undergo a brand refresh within 2Q2023, will launch Ascott Pazhou Guangzhou and Ascott China Central Place Suzhou – both in China. The company is also expanding its The Crest Collection, aimed at travellers desiring one-of-a-kind experiential stays that immerse them in the history and culture of a destination. The brand’s flagship in Asia, The Robertson House by The Crest Collection in Singapore, is set to open by the end of 2023. The Unlimited Collection, comprising boutique hotels, will reopen Ann Siang House, set in Singapore’s Chinatown area, in 2Q2023 after completing refurbishments. Lifestyle brand, Harris, will reach beyond Indonesia later this year, with the opening of Harris Sunshine Penang in Malaysia.

The first Radisson hotel in the North of England has opened its doors in York, a city steeped in Roman, Viking and medieval history, and considered one of England’s most beautiful cities showcasing an eclectic mix of architecture through the ages. Previously known as Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre, the riverside property has undergone an impressive transformation to become Radisson Hotel York. Radisson Hotel York is the first Radisson-branded hotel to open in the north of England and the second in the UK, joining Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre London Heathrow. York is famous for its ancient city walls, inside which visitors can find more attractions per square mile than any other UK city, including museums, galleries, festivals, as well as historical and cultural landmarks such as York Minster, the National Railway Museum, Jorvik Viking Centre and The Shambles, one of the best-preserved medieval shopping areas in Europe featuring cobbled streets and overhanging buildings. Originally built in 1969, Radisson Hotel York  is an eight-story city center building that sits on the banks of the River Ouse and is the second tallest building in York, preceded only by York Minster, offering unrivalled views of the city. The hotel features 200 welcoming guest rooms, offering a combination of business and leisure amenities to ensure guests feel at home. The renovation has introduced new flooring, furniture and soft furnishings as well as the addition of self-service check-in desks. There is also new décor, showcasing neutral tones and sleek design throughout the hotel, reflecting the Radisson brand’s Scandinavian roots. The Paddle Room restaurant is a nod to the history of its location, where boats once passed exchanging goods, all powered by hand or paddles. Roman jetties, wharves, and warehouses have all been uncovered on banks of the River Ouse. Now a welcoming and cozy restaurant, The Paddle Room offers sharing plates including mushroom arancini, salt & pepper squid and, a local classic, Yorkshire pudding. It also serves pub classics such as fish and chips as well as grazing boards, with multiple vegetarian and vegan options. Tom Flanagan Karttunen, Area Senior Vice President for Radisson Hotel Group in Western & Northern Europe, says: “We’re thrilled to expand our UK portfolio with the opening of another Radisson-branded property and introduce the brand to the north of England, in the charming city of York. The hotel’s central location is an ideal setting from which to explore York’s rich and fascinating history.” Radisson Hotel York offers a range of flexible and versatile meeting and function spaces to cater for a wide range of events, such as large conferences of up to 400 people, gala dinners, or training sessions, complete with a dedicated on-site meetings and events team. Other hotel facilities include a gym for residents and parking spaces for up to 51 cars. All guest rooms are fitted with Chromecast technology so guests can access their Netflix account and other streaming services. Dinesh Kunder, General Manager of the hotel, says: “The hotel’s renovation brings an elevated offering for the local community as well as for the 8 million plus visitors travelling to York for business and leisure every year. We are proud to offer a relaxing and calm environment for guests to unwind and enjoy our Scandinavian-inspired design combined with our warm and welcoming Yorkshire hospitality.”  

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 530 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, South America and North America, has announced the expansion in Europe of its lifestyle brand targeted at millennial-minded travellers: Avani Hotels & Resorts. Designed for guests that prioritise service, style and value, Avani is characterised by functional design and unique service offerings. Part of a strategic expansion of the brand into new regions of operation, Avani will add five properties in key cities in Europe – one in Spain, two in Italy, one in Germany and next year, one in the Netherlands. Coinciding with the European expansion, Avani will also launch in Central and South America with hotels to be added in Mexico and Colombia.The first of the strategic additions will see Avani make its debut in Spain in June, with the rebranded 101-key Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid Hotel. In Italy the brand will launch with the rebranding of two hotels – first the 65-key Avani Palazzo Moscova Milan Hotel in June, followed by the 144-key Avani Rio Novo Venice Hotel in the summer. Later in the year Avani will also debut in Germany with the rebranded Avani Frankfurt City Hotel with 256 keys.Also in Europe, Avani will enter the Netherlands in 2024 with the launch of a 163-key hotel in Amsterdam: the rebranded Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel, located in one of the Dutch capital’s most vibrant districts, will join the brand’s portfolio in Q2 next year. The company is also preparing to introduce the brand in Latin America, where two additions to the Avani portfolio are planned for later this year with two rebranded properties. Regional operations will begin in one of Central America’s leading tourist destinations with the launch of the 140-key Avani Cancun Airport Hotel in Mexico in Q3, followed in Q4 by the 66-key Avani Royal Zona T Bogota Hotel in Colombia. According to Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, the expansion of the Avani brand’s footprint into Europe and Latin America reflects the group's strategy of continuing to expand and diversify its hotel offerings in the upscale tourist segment: “Avani is now a well-established brand in Asia, Africa and the Middle East and known for its great value proposition, its design philosophy and unique service offering. The work of recent years has prepared us to commit strategically to the expansion of Avani’s footprint into new regions of operation and marks a significant milestone for Minor Hotels.”Avani Hotels & Resorts’ unique propositionAvani was created to meet the tastes and needs of millennial-minded travellers – a growing sector of discerning guests who value comfort and affordability while travelling in style. Conceived with the latest travel trends in mind, including bleisure travellers and digital nomads, the Avani experience is markedly modern and functional, with meticulously designed smart, flexible and social spaces and a genuine passion for service. Care is placed on the small details to ensure guests feel comfortable wherever they go, in urban hotels and beach resorts alike.  Each Avani property has its own unique personality, but they all offer something special tailored to their audiences, so guests can enjoy the distinct Avani experience anywhere from Bangkok and Dubai to Melbourne and soon Madrid. AvaniFit goes beyond the traditional hotel gym offering health and wellness experiences for the body and mind. The Pantry, originally created as a ‘grab and go’ concept, offers guests flexible dining solutions while staying at their Avani of choice. Other noteworthy concepts include Avani PopUp – a unique al fresco casual dining experience for couples and groups, and Avani Kids, the brand’s way of enhancing the stay of younger guests. Launched in 2011, Avani Hotels & Resorts currently has 38 properties in 20 countries across Asia, Australasia, the Middle East, Indian Ocean, Africa, and one hotel in Europe in Portugal.

Jumeirah Group have announced the opening of Zuma Capri at Capri Palace Jumeirah of Blue Island in Italy.