Opened in 2021, Th8 Palm slots into the city’s set of luxury, lifestyle properties in a joint venture between Accor and sbe in 2019 and rebranded to Morgan’s Originals once Ennismore merged with Accor.
It becomes IHG’s debut property for its collection brand launched in August 2021. Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Vignette Collection remains under the same owners, Kuwaiti firm Aqarat, which also chose IHG as operator of the new Vignette Collection in Kuwait City.
Talal Jassim Al-Bahar, vice chairman and CEO of Aqarat said: “This collaboration aligns perfectly with the evolving preferences of today’s customers who seek unparalleled luxury experiences and a distinctive luxury and lifestyle brand, precisely what Vignette Collection delivers. Considering Dubai’s status as a renowned tourist destination and the continuous growth of Kuwait’s hospitality market, these two Vignette Collection hotels are poised to capture the attention and admiration of both local and international guests.”
Haitham Mattar, MD, India, Middle East & Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are thrilled to announce the signing of two remarkable Vignette Collection hotels in Dubai and Kuwait as we continue to expand our luxury and lifestyle portfolio in the region. The partnership with Aqarat and the opening of these hotels marks an important milestone for IHG Hotels & Resorts, as we cater to the growing number of guests who seek luxury experiences that differ from conventional hotel and resort offerings.”
SESlive!, in partnership with Qatar Tourism is proud to showcase ‘Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder,’ an all-new show that promises to be an unforgettable experience for families and Disney fans of all ages. The show will take place at the Lusail Multipurpose Hall from July 4-9, 2023.Audiences in Doha will be transported to a world of imagination where they will witness inspiring and relatable heroes who span generations take to the ice through a dazzling celebration of adventure, courage, and heart. With beloved Disney stories and characters, breathtaking ice skating, and captivating special effects, this is a show that will give everyone a reason to believe.Sheikha Hessa Al-Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning at Qatar Tourism said: “Qatar Tourism is delighted to partner with SESlive! to present Disney On Ice and bring the enchantment of 'Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder' to Doha. This captivating production promises an exceptional, family-friendly entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike, and is part of a series of curated events and activities that will be taking place across Doha during the summer season.”The show features characters from Disney's Moana, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, The Princess and the Frog, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty. Seven empowered Disney Princesses, along with favorites from Disney’s Frozen and DisneyPixar's Coco, will explore the depths, heights, and horizons of their dreams by fearlessly embracing the unknown to create their own "happily ever after."From high-flying jumps and elaborated props to innovative lighting and dazzling special effects, audiences will be transported to a world of imagination where heroes of every kind seek to fulfill their dreams. Cutting-edge figure-skating, glamorous costumes, and stunning set designs create a mesmerizing ambiance as the magic and adventure of Disney's immortal tales come to life on the ice.Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will remind people of all ages the benefits of laughter, optimism, and hope. For any princess or prince who dreams big, there's a Disney Princess or Prince to show her or him anything is possible. Experience the joy of being with family and enjoy a colorful and cultural celebration by traveling to the Land of the Dead with Miguel from DisneyPixar's Coco.Disney On Ice offers the opportunity to create wonderful memories that resonate with guests long after they depart the show. Guests are encouraged to share their magical experience by posting photos and videos on social media and connect with fans all over the world through #DisneyOnIceQatar.Tickets for Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder are now on sale at tickets.virginmegastore.me. WHEN:Tuesday, 4th July 2023 (Opening Night)
Show Starts at 7:30pm
Wednesday, 5th July 2023
Show Starts at 3:30pm
Show Starts at 7:30pm
Thursday, 6th July 2023
Show Starts at 3:30pm
Show Starts at 7:30pm
Friday, 7th July 2023
Show Starts at 10:00am
Show Starts at 3:30pm
Show Starts at 7:30pm
Saturday, 8th July 2023
Show Starts at 11:30am
Show Starts at 3:30pm
Show Starts at 7:30pm
Sunday, 9th July 2023
Show Starts at 7:30pm
WHERE: Lusail multipurpose arena – Doha, Qatar TICKETS: www.DisneyOnIceME.comwww.tickets.virginmegastore.me *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.
The Lux Collective is delighted to announce that two of its award-winningresorts - LUX* Grand Baie in Mauritius and LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives have joined the prestigious Virtuoso luxury network. A stringent membership by invitation only, Virtuoso is the world-renowned leading luxury and experiential travel specialist network, which partners with a vetted portfolio of over 2,200 of the world's best hotels, cruise lines, airlines, tour operators, and travel entities. It provides elite luxury clientele with bespoke crafted itineraries, exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access.
“The Virtuoso programme is globally respected and highly selective. Becoming a Virtuoso preferred partner affirms our resorts’ impressive performance and demonstrates our unparalleled vision to consistently deliver hospitality service excellence and curate unique Life Extraordinary travel experiences for our guests,” said Mr Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective.
During the 2023 Virtuoso Travel Week, the world's top luxury travel conference to be held from 12 - 18 August in Las Vegas, LUX* Grand Baie and LUX* South Ari Atoll will be engaged in one-on-one meetings and exchanges with the exclusive Virtuoso network and global partners to learn, share and drive business.
The newest flagship property of the group, LUX* Grand Baie in Mauritius, opened its doors in December 2021 and received the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Award this February. Located on the northern shores of Mauritius, the resort boasts a one-of-a-kind chic and elegant architecture and interior designed by renowned Mauritian architect Jean-Francois Adam and British famous designer Kelly Hoppen CBE. Named 2022 Global Winner of Robb Report’s Annual Best of the Best Awards - The Best in Travel for Island Getaway, LUX* Grand Baie offers modern luxury paired with extraordinary experiences, including exciting culinary experience as well as state-of-the-art LUX* ME Spa wellness and hydrothermal journeys and customised fitness programmes. The beachfront suites and villas offer sophisticated comfort for island living, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners and families.
LUX* South Ari Atoll in Maldives offers a distinctive holiday destination with exquisite dining and wellness options in the Indian Ocean tropical setting. It had been voted among The Best Resorts In The World for Indian Ocean by Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2022 and most recently, named the Most Sustainable Wedding Resort in South Asia by LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award for the second year. One of the largest Maldivian resorts, it is located on a private island with white sandy beaches with a calm turquoise lagoon - perfect for solo journeys, romantic getaways and family bonding. The playful and modern soul of the resort is reflected in the design of its 193 private beach and overwater villas, eight restaurants, five bars, and the award-winning LUX* ME Spa. Besides gastronomic and wellbeing experiences, guests are invited to cycle along the island jetty, partake in engaging workshops and culinary classes, and explore the underwater world of South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), known for its rich marine life and whale sharks.
At The Lux Collective, its vision is to help the guests celebrate life’s moments, both big and small. Offering a different kind of luxury, each experience is carefully designed and made special. This privileged partnership with Virtuoso strengthens The Lux Collective’s positioning as a progressive leader in the luxury hospitality industry.
Grand Pacific Hotel, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, announced its partnership with Fiji Fashion Week (FJFW), celebrating local designers. The iconic hotel will be the official hub, hosting media sessions, workshops, and activities. Lachlan Walker, Area General – South Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the transformative journey through IHG's Journey to Tomorrow initiative. The partnership supports emerging designers and showcases their creativity. Journey to Tomorrow focuses on responsible travel and making a positive impact on communities and the environment.
“We are grateful to Grand Pacific Hotel for the continued support and partnership. Over the years, this prestigious event has played a pivotal role in helping designers scale up their production and gain access to new markets. For it to be possible, we are always appreciative of partners that help make it happen as we continue to grow,” said Ellen Whippy-Knight, Managing Director of Fashion Week Ltd. The hotel also organized an exclusive cocktail event with Jarrad Clark, VP and Global Creative Director at IMG Fashion Events and Properties.
Thomas Kochs, Managing Director of Corinthia London, is delighted to announce a new collaboration, commencing in February 2023, with the London Regenerative Institute (LRI), as part of the hotel’s ongoing commitment, not only to the hospitality industry, but also to championing prestigious wellness, health, and beauty partnerships.
The vision of London Regenerative is to bring together the world’s very best regenerative medicine practitioners and therapies. Founded by pioneering plastic surgeons, Mr Tunc Tiryaki and Mr Steve Cohen, who have dedicated much of their careers to regenerative research, the LRI comprises the very latest in longevity innovations, with the most cutting-edge personalised treatment protocols for reverse ageing. Mr Cohen and Mr Tiryaki are renowned for their ground-breaking work in facial regeneration, including the use of stem cells in facelift procedures.
The medical services will comprise Regenerative Surgery (performed at the Cadogan Clinic in Chelsea), Regenerative Therapeutics and Regenerative Medicine & Longevity. The objectives focus on the latest, most progressive, and most effective regenerative treatments and remedies. Diagnostics will feature Skin analysis (Skin Consult AI), Biochemical testing, Epigenetic testing, 3D Body Scan, and Lifestyle Questionnaire.
Treatments will include Oxygen therapies (for body rejuvenation), Personalised IV Treatments, Personalised Supplements, Personalised Facial Regeneration, Aesthetic therapies (skin boosters, botox, fillers), and Beauty & Body therapies (hydrafacial, radiofrequency, PRP, micro-needling, and soft mesology).
“The London Regenerative Institute was founded with the vision of bringing together the world’s very best regenerative medicine practitioners and therapies to one of the world’s most luxurious hotels; Corinthia London. The launch of the LRI is a world-first concept and a huge milestone for patients wanting access to the very latest and most cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments for longevity, and an important hub for research and education in this field. We believe that ageing is a curable disease and epigenetic testing and personalised treatments hold the key to living longer healthier lives.” Commented Mr Tunc Tiryaki.
“Identifying disease before it manifests and employing preventative treatments and therapies is the gold standard solution to reversing ageing. London Regenerative is committed to offering the most advanced regenerative treatments personalised to the unique needs of each patient to optimise their health and longevity. We are proud to be partnering with Corinthia London, where patients will benefit from uncompromising service and luxury.” Added Mr Steve Cohen.
The LRI board also includes other leading innovators in the field, such as Mr Bryan Mayou Founder of The Cadogan Clinic who commented on the partnership "As a world-leading centre of excellence for cosmetic surgery, the Cadogan Clinic is delighted to be partnering with the London Regenerative Institute for regenerative surgery."
Treatments start from £400, and appointments for consultations can be made through their website www.londonregenerative.co.uk and will take place in the hotel’s dedicated Lab Room located on the Mezzanine Floor.
Anne-Sophie Pic, the world’s most decorated female Michelin-starred chef, this spring hosts a special culinary event at La Dame de Pic London at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square in collaboration with legendary caviar house Petrossian.
For one-night only on May 4, 2023, Anne-Sophie and her Brigade de Cuisine led by Head Chef Evens Lopez will take guests on a gastronomic journey that unites La Dame de Pic’s distinctive French culinary flair with the sophisticated flavours of Petrossian caviar.
Guests will enjoy a six-course menu paired with an assortment of fine caviar including Daurenki Tsar Impérial Caviar, Ossetra Impérial Caviar and Baika Impérial Caviar, complementing several of the celebrated chef’s signature dishes including White Asparagus and Seabass Caviar. Seabass Caviar is an iconic family recipe, first created by her father Jacques Pic in 1971 and passed down to Anne-Sophie, who reimagined the dish with sake, lie de sake and rose. White Asparagus is a modern signature, marinated with stilchelton, and featuring cured Iberica Pork Belly as well as blackcurrant and elderflower sabayon.
To complement the dynamic menu, a spectacular and diverse beverage pairing will be available featuring iconic labels such as Krug Vintage, Jean-Louis Chave, Chateau d'Yquem and more.
This unique collaboration arose as a result of Anne-Sophie’s lifelong passion for using caviar as an ingredient in her cooking, inspired by her father’s use of the exquisite product in his Seabass Caviar dish, as well as her great admiration for Petrossian as a celebrated French Maison.
Across the world, Petrossian is renowned by connoisseurs and professionals alike who trust the historic expertise of the family and share their passion for caviar and fine foods.
LUX* South Ari Atoll, a well-loved resort of The Lux Collective, is proud to present its upcoming Artist in Residence programme with international motivational speaker, world-class athlete and celebrated artist Gregory Burns from 10 to 23 May 2023.After winning numerous gold medals and setting world records in swimming during three Paralympic Games, Gregory transitioned into IronMan events, inspiring many with his discipline and perseverance. Polio, which he contracted as a child, motivated him to prioritise mobility and to express himself through sports and arts. Known for over three decades of vibrant and expressive works, he gained numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2016 Sports Artist of the Year Award and a commission from the International Olympics Committee to create paintings for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This May, within his Artist in Residence programme, Gregory will personally guide resort guests to discover their creativity as they learn from the master himself. He will be teaching a variety of techniques, from painting to drawing and more. “Since my childhood, the sea has been my home. Swimming, surfing, scuba diving and sketching; all these fluid activities bring us joy and make it a better day," enthused Gregory Burns.Open to all guests regardless of skill levels, the classes will be held in the resort’s outdoors set amidst lush greenery in the beautiful Indian Ocean. Under Gregory’s guidance, participants will be able to create their own unique works of art.Additionally, in the continuous strive to uplift the community and inspire self-expression through art, LUX* South Ari Atoll will be hosting a co-painting session with Gregory and the renowned local artists.To discover all unique offers and Extraordinary Experiences of LUX* South Ari Atoll and to book your stay, visit www.luxresorts.com, email the resort at stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
Ocean Inn Hotels LLP, a hotel development company based out of Jaipur, today announced the signing of a franchise agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts for a new resort development at Banskho near Jaipur, Rajasthan, India under the upper midscale Wyndham Garden brand.
Jaipur is the capital and the largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a popular tourist destination in India and forms a part of the west Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Delhi and Agra. It is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Jantar Mantar and the Amer Fort. It also serves as a gateway to other tourist destinations in Rajasthan such as Jodhpur (348KM), Jaisalmer (571KM), Udaipur (421KM) and Mount Abu (520KM). Over the last decade, Jaipur has also come up as an important MICE destination in India, particularly for lavish Indian weddings. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts currently have three Ramada by Wyndham hotels and one Days Hotel by Wyndham operational in Jaipur and two are under development.
Banskho is a small village situated about 40 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur, Agra Highway. The proposed resort will enjoy great connectivity and access to Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra and is less than an hour’s drive from popular tourist attractions within Jaipur City like Hawa Mahal, Gated Old City, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal and more. It is also about an hour's driving distance from Sariska National Park, which is famous for its tiger safari.
The resort sits adjacent to a hillock and is spread over seven acres of land will have over 70 low-density cottages and tented villas, extensive banquet and event facilities including party lawns, a business centre, refreshing wellness areas, an outdoor swimming pool, and will offer outdoor activities for leisure travellers and families on vacation.
“Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the largest hotel franchise company in the world, and we are extremely happy to partner with them to bring the Wyndham Garden brand to the city of Jaipur. We are sure that the resort which is being developed with Thai architectural influence will be loved by all guests visiting the city and we look forward to welcoming them to our resort by 2024,” said Mr. Ajay Sharma & Mr. Abdul Kalam, M/s Ocean Inn Hotels LLP.
“Our upper midscale brand Wyndham Garden is growing from strength to strength, and we are delighted to announce another signing of Wyndham Garden in the city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. This resort will further strengthen our presence in the state of Rajasthan with nine operational hotels and two additional properties under development. We look forward to our partnership with M/s Ocean Inn Hotels LLP and welcoming guests to a truly international standard resort in the upper midscale segment to the city of Jaipur,” said Nikhil Sharma, Regional Director Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
Once operational, the hotel will generate direct employment for almost a hundred people in the city of Jaipur.
The Maldives, 12 November 2022 – In celebration of tropical wanderlust, conscious contemporary lifestyle brand DIARRABLU partners with LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives to present a Resort ‘23 collection named “FILUN” (Maldivian for “escape”) inspired by the island’s vibrant colours and warm culture.
As one of the biggest Maldivian islands, the award-winning resort of The Lux Collective is an ideal place for creativity with its cheerful vibes, secluded picturesque coves, and crystal-blue ocean waters. The DIARRABLU Resort ‘23 Collection is a reflection of the tropical LUX* South Ari Atoll, where blue lagoons meet four kilometers of pristine sands. The brand’s creative director Diarra Bousso and her global team travelled to the island from San Francisco, Dakar, Cape Town, Abidjan and London to create a special campaign telling the magical story behind the partnership.
“The collaboration between LUX* South Ari Atoll and DIARRABLU is not merely a fashion activation but a meaningful partnership. Travel and fashion go hand-in-hand, and anyone packing for a holiday to a faraway tropical destination will think twice about what to pack. The capsule collection's locally inspired prints and sustainable materials aligned with LUX*’s sustainability values. The handcrafted womenswear and swimsuit are versatile and eye-catching - to celebrate life and bring a little extraordinary to your holiday.” said Ms. Caroline Gaud-Perrier, Vice President – Marketing of The Lux Collective.
The Collection
The collection’s colour palette features inspiration from turquoise waters, pink flowers and white sands. The prints, Ari Blu, Atoll Rose, Atoll Blu, Playa Aqua, Isla Noir and Tukki Noir, are designed in the brand’s distinct spirit of fusing geometry and art.
The solid-coloured pieces, in aqua, coral, white and black, use sustainable materials of lyocell and tencel, made from regenerated cellulose of wood pulp. The collection features balanced and size-inclusive pieces for head-turning looks while on vacation. The clothing and jewellery are handcrafted by local artisan communities in Diarra’s native country Senegal – in line with the brand’s innovative business model with a mission to create sustainable livelihoods and reduce waste.
The Brand: DIARRABLU
DIARRABLU is a conscious contemporary lifestyle brand founded by multidisciplinary artist and mathematician Diarra Bousso and known for its versatile, practical and convertible pieces in bold prints designed for the travel-spirited muse. With notable features in Vogue, Forbes and CNN among others, the brand’s design approach is a conscious merger of tradition and technology. DIARRABLU gained a strong fanbase with collections synonymous with effortless sophistication and comfort. and an ethos rooted in sustainability, wanderlust, and traditions.
The Artist: Diarra Bousso
Diarra Bousso, the self-dubbed creative mathematician is an artist at heart. A trained ballerina and former Wall Street trader spends her time exploring mathematics to create emotional artistic and educational experiences. Born and raised in Senegal and Norway, and currently living in California, Diarra is fascinated with oxymorons. Her work is rooted in old African craftsmanship while looking to the industry’s conscious future. The brand celebrates the beauty in contradictions by merging tradition and technology through her collection of clothing, accessories and art prints.
This brand collaboration between LUX* South Ari Atoll and DIARRABLU is born out of the strong shared values and passion for sustainability. Recognised for its award-winning eco-approach to conscious travel, the resort constantly strives for a greener future.
From 12 November 2022, the new DIARRABLU Resort ’23 Collection can be purchased online via www.diarrablu.com, with worldwide delivery.
David Gallienne, the head chef and owner of Le Jardin des Plumes, a one-Michelin-star restaurant in France’s Normandy region, will host two exclusive dinners at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi on Nov. 17-18.
In the first of these special meals, diners will experience a premium set menu spotlighting French gastronomy paired with Bollinger champagne on Nov. 17. This intimate Michelin-caliber meal will be available for 20 persons and served in the lovely glasshouse venue of L’Orangerie.
The next night, on Nov. 18, Chef Gallienne will serve an exclusive “Le Jardin des Plumes Michelin dinner” in the newly refurbished Le Beaulieu at Metropole Hanoi.
The winner of the popular reality TV show Top Chef France in 2020, Gallienne was born and raised in Le Mans, and has more than 15 years’ experience working in the kitchens of several Michelin-starred restaurants in Normandy, from Alençon to Rouen and Bagnols-de-L’orne.
In early 2020, he became the owner of the hotel and gourmet restaurant Le Jardin des Plumes, where he has served many prestigious guests including French President Emmanuel Macron and a former Japanese prime minister.
In love with his native region, Gallienne delights diners’ taste buds by proposing a cuisine inspired by the Normandy region, which he revisits with surprising flavors while also raising awareness about the wonders of nature, the natural rhythm of the seasons, and the work of local producers and artisan suppliers.
Le Beaulieu, the award-winning modern French fine dining restaurant at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, and its refined al fresco extension La Terrasse recently celebrated their reopening following an extensive seven-month refurbishment.
With an elegant and sophisticated new design, alongside renowned French gastronomy and a wide selection of wines, the signature restaurant at Metropole Hanoi ties together the hotel’s 120-year-old storied past with a contemporary new look that manages to meld the opulent, the classical and the modern in a single scheme that’s long on white, gold and heathery blue-grays.
