Industry News

Founded in 2016, Vélosophy is a Swedish bicycle and lifestyle brand with responsibility and sustainability at its heart.    Their exclusive collection of customisable bicycles, made from recycled aluminium, gives hoteliers the opportunity to offer their guests a sustainable and ethical way to explore and enjoy the surrounding area, perfect for any location. ”Making a difference is both about will and opportunity but also about choosing to do so. I’m proud to offer an alternative to all other bikes because I think we are.” - Jimmy Östholm, Founder of Vélosophy. One for One promise: for every bicycle bought, Vélosophy donates another to a schoolgirl in a developing country, increasing her presence at school and giving her hope for a better future*. All donated bicycles are also manufactured on location, supporting the growth of local businesses and the regional economy. The company also offers free delivery across Europe for purchases from their online store.   ”We are constantly looking for partners who do not rely on using new raw materials to produce their product. And in Vélosophy we found a brand creating super stylish and aesthetically beautiful bicycles out of recycled materials. A brand that also addresses the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by donating a bicycle to a schoolgirl in a less developed country for every bicycle sold. Being part of this process is a truly important gift.” - Sue Williams, General Manager at Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa.

Highlighting the signature LUX* ME concept, a holistic approach to wellbeing, LUX* South Ari Atoll celebrates its new partnership with Technogym, the leading provider of fitness experiences, and launches the latest advanced fitness equipment. The award-winning Maldivian resort also invites its guests for a series of innovative trainings, where the new cardio collection with combined biocircuit workout programmes is introduced. “At Technogym, we design unique and engaging training experiences that include digital technology. We are proud of our bespoke project with LUX* South Ari Atoll that offers guests a superior wellness experience with state-of-the-art equipment alongside Technogym Ecosystem connectivity,” says Enrico Manaresi, Technogym Press & Media Director. “A sanctuary for health and holistic wellbeing, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a personalised approach to self-care, be it for spa, fitness, yoga, meditation to nutrition. Additionally, our resort presents tailor-made journeys to immerse guests in the idyllic island surrounds,” says LUX* South Ari Atoll General Manager Mr. Patrice Aira. Ideal for those seeking a wellness retreat in the Maldives, the resort features four signature packages - Relax, Reboot, Rejuvenate and Re-energise, targeting individual needs. Under the LUX* Me wellbeing concept, each package is thoughtfully curated. It combines expert consultations, spa and beauty treatments, mindful practices, customised healthy menu along with personal trainings and state-of-the-art workouts throughout the stay. For more information about LUX* South Ari Atoll and its wellness and fitness offers, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com or call +960 668 0901.

MGallery under Accor’s premium category has already welcomed the QE2 by taking over operations from May 2022. “MGallery selects unique properties with a passion to gather them into a unique collection of hotels where captivating stories are lived and shared. With more than 100 hotels around the world, each MGallery tells a unique story inspired by the location” So the official brand description says, and given the type of unique property the QE2 is, MGallery sounds like a great fit. Let’s hope they take great care as before her retirement she had covered 6 million miles crossing the world numerous times. At the grand old age of fifty-five she is also the only ship where the Queen has sailed alongside the public, and was also used to carry British troops in the Falklands war.   The QE2 will get an extensive make-over with 10 meeting rooms 447 hotel rooms, 9 food and beverage outlets, retail spaces, gym, and swimming pool, and, as long as the character is retained, we’re all in favor of that. Having visited the QE2 many times we never felt like staying overnight but with MGallery it looks like things are about to change. Whenever you board the QE2 you will find people from all over the world – many of whom having previously sailed on her still feel a strong affiliation – coming to revisit. Therefore, with a history of over two and a half million passengers there has never been such a global fan-base watching a hotel refurbishment. No pressure then.