Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) in collaboration with the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) have jointly extended a special and open invitation to the Indian National Cricket Team, cordially congratulating them and offering an opportunity to celebrate their phenomenal World Cup victory in the Sunny Side of Life.
Maldives
Conveying heartfelt congratulations and praising their extraordinary achievement, the CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr Ibrahim Shiuree and the Secretary General of MATI, Mr. Ahmed Nazeer, expressed their strong enthusiasm for hosting the team stating “We would be honoured to host you and ensure that your stay is filled with memorable moments, relaxation, and bespoke experiences.” This invitation also highlights the strong and long-standing cultural and sporting ties between the Maldives and India.
The Maldives is the perfect locale for the Indian Cricket Team to celebrate their sporting excellence. As Mr Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, expressed, “It would be an immense honour for the Maldives to welcome the Indian Cricket Team and share in the joy of their triumph. We eagerly await the opportunity to host them, offering the perfect setting for them to create lasting memories of their victory celebration."
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program
The 208-room hotel, which debuted in July 2023 in the heart of Bangkok’s lively On Nut neighborhood, is rolling out the welcome mat for pet dogs. A welcome card, welcome bag of snacks, pet bed, bowls for food and water, and doggie bags for waste collection are among the hotel’s host of pet amenities.
Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline. Situated adjacent to the hotel’s sky-high transparent infinity pool and a compelling interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing, the upper deck is serviced by the Giant Swing Bar that offers Mediterranean, Thai and international snacks and dishes such as INNSiDE’s Burger and beverages including imaginative cocktails.
Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline
Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s ground lobby and 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline.
Only one dog is permitted to stay in an INNSiDE Room at an additional cost of THB 1200 (USD 33) per room per night. A maximum of two dogs are allowed in the Townhouse accommodations for an additional THB 2000 (USD 55) per room per night.
The hotel’s concierge team are also on hand to recommend “INNSiDE” knowledge about dog-friendly attractions and venues in the neighborhood and across Bangkok.
Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline
“There’s no need to leave your pet behind and worry about the hassle of finding a dog sitter; our distinguished four-legged guests, an integral part of the family, are also welcome to enjoy the spoils of a getaway,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. “We aim to establish a genuine connection with both our human and pet friends from the outset”.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s dog-friendly hospitality is part of Meliá Hotels International’s broader Pet Friendly program being introduced to select hotels globally. During the booking process, the reservations team will gather as much information as possible about the guest’s dog to help personalise the experience from the moment the guest and their furry companion set foot in the hotel.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is part of a collection of unique urban and beach hotels in 14 different countries designed for those with curious minds who cultivate a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.
The global hospitality Group and representatives from 17 international corporations form an advisory council to design and shape a new era of corporate travel and meetings for 2025 and beyond
There are bars and then there are rooftop bars. We’ve put together a mini round-up of two awe-inspiring rooftop bars in Thailand – one towering over Bangkok, the other Chiang Mai.
Named after the largest rough diamond ever discovered, Cullinan Belek is the leading all-inclusive, ultra-luxury resort nestled between the white sand beaches of the Turkish Riviera and the Taurus mountains.
From the exceptional dining experiences to its focus on family-friendly activities, world class facilities and wellness offerings, Cullinan Belek promises an unforgettable escape this summer.
Cullinan Belek
World-class facilities
Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery and pristine beaches, Cullinan Belek is the ultimate summer playground. The resort’s 800-metre-long private sandy beach is adorned with private cabanas and sunbeds all serviced with food and drink, so you’ll never have to leave the beach. For additional tanning space there are two timber piers that provide the perfect space to soak up the sun.
Unwind in style with a round of golf on the resort’s renowned 36-hole golf course complete with sea and rivers views. Consider yourself a foodie? Cullinan has a vibrant collection of 6 à la carte restaurants with highlights including freshly caught seafood room from beachfront restaurant, Yamas and cuisines from all around the globe at Mare.
Cullinan Belek
Five-star family escape
A destination designed for families, Cullinan Belek, features a range of activities and facilities that promise an unforgettable vacation for guests of all ages.
Families have plenty of exciting activities to choose from, perfect for summer. Children can splash around in the 3,000 m2 water park that features 13 slides or keep cool in one of the 13 swimming pools.
Parents will be pleased to learn that the resort includes its own UPUPA kid's club offering a soft play adventure park, indoor playground, games rooms complete with a bowling alley and a summer events programme that runs seven days a week until 2 am.
A variety of family-friendly suites and villas provide spacious accommodation for families of any size, the sea-view and swim-up suites, two-story family rooms, and spacious villas that can host 6-8 people, providing an unparalleled luxury escape.
Cullinan Belek
Wellness haven
Inspired by the soothing sounds and colours of nature, C’Espace Spa is a sanctuary for relaxation seekers. Spanning an impressive 8,000 sq. metres, with 18 treatment rooms including a bespoke Turkish hammam, saunas, plunge pool, vitamin bar, fitness centre as well as a series of indoor and outdoor pools.
Indulge in a list of signature treatments and packages, with specialties including everything from a traditional Turkish hammam ritual to a "Gold Massage" which involves a special oil containing gold flakes that will leave your skin glowing all summer long.
For more information and reservations, please visit the Cullinan Belek website.
Tourism Fiji is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) to host the inaugural AdventureNEXT Fiji event from November 20th to 22nd, 2024.
ATTA, a global organization committed to fostering responsible and sustainable adventure travel and trade, serves as a collaborative platform for businesses, destinations, and individuals in the adventure tourism sector. AdventureNEXT Fiji aims to spotlight Fiji as a burgeoning adventure travel destination while providing a platform for local operators to engage with international stakeholders.
Tourism Fiji CEO, Brent Hill expressed his enthusiasm stating, “Tourism Fiji is excited to be partnering with ATTA to bring the first AdventureNEXT event to Fiji in November this year. AdventureNEXT is where Fiji can position its adventure tourism experiences to a large audience of between 250-300 international buyers and media, who will in turn then spread the word about Fiji’s natural, cultural and adventure tourism activities to their audiences. While accommodation investment is vital, so too is enriching tourism experiences, particularly in adventure tourism, aligning with Fiji's offerings and opening opportunities for local entrepreneurs."
Shannon Stowell, ATTA CEO said, “Tourism Fiji sees a chance to enhance adventure tourism, tapping into a $300 billion market set to grow by 17% in the next 8 years.” “Having our first major event in the South Pacific is exciting and the fact that Fiji is taking such a leadership role by hosting is powerful. Fiji offers such amazing experiences and culture, and the ATTA cannot wait to put on AdventureNEXT. It’s even more special for me personally as Fiji was my first international travel experience back in 1986. I’ve had to wait almost 40 years to return and am really anticipating visiting Fiji again.”
With a diverse attendance including adventure tour operators, travel agents, and media representatives, AdventureNEXT Fiji will feature famils, keynote speakers, and workshops, enriching the experience for all participants and contributing over $1 million to Fiji's visitor economy.
With daily direct flights from London to Dubrovnik opening up on 31st of March, Dubrovnik and its region are set to be a must go destination this spring. Immersed in rich culture, gorgeous gastronomy, events and endless activities for all of the family, Dubrovnik makes for the perfect gateway.
1. A playground for outdoor adventurersSpring is the perfect season to visit Dubrovnik and its surroundings, allowing visitors to make the most of the outdoorsy activities the region offers. Families, couples or solo travellers will enjoy kayaking on the island of Lokrum lying just off Dubrovnik, soaring down the two breath-taking zip-lines with stunning views of the Dubrovnik Old Town and the Adriatic or participating in the Run The Wall challenge - literally running on Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls on the 27th April 2024 around the medieval walls, with their 1080 steps and1940 meters of history. 2. Dubrovnik’s classical music sceneRuning from the end of April through June, Dubrovnik Musical Spring is a series of classical music concerts performed by the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra. With carefully selected programs taking place in historical locations in Dubrovnik such as the 13th century Franciscan church and the Rector's Palace, the Dubrovnik Musical Spring has hosted more than 30 renowned artists, soloists, and conductors, emphasising the importance of music and its traditions in Dubrovnik.
3. Get your art fixImmerse into Croatian culture by meeting local and national artists with the Hotel Supetar Cavtat SupetART artist-in-residence program. From May 2024, Romana Milutin Fabris will debut their latest collection, transforming the hotel’s communal spaces into a month-long interactive pop-up gallery. Known for her vivid and colourful works, Romana’s works are characterised by frequent symbolism. In her paintings, the City pulses, lives, and dances in colours depending on her mood. 4. Expect gastronomy galoreEpicureans will be able to discover the local specialties, feasting in Michelin-recommended hotspots or nibbling at food markets including the street food festival Bavarin. Held in early May each year offering delicious Croatian food specialities, culinary workshops, live performances and more. Vapor Restaurant at Hotel Bellevue with striking sea views over the Dalmatian coastline and Michelin Guide noteworthy, guests can enjoy contemporary takes on signature dishes including lobster tail and lamb rump steak. 5. Beyond Dubrovnik's walls, explore CavtatBuilt by refugees from Roman Epidaurum, Cavtat is a coastal town and cultural haven. Delve into its past through the 15th-century monastery within St. Nicholas church, the Renaissance mansion that displays the manuscripts of scientist Baltazar Bogišić, and the home of Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac. For a unique experience, head to the cloister of Cavtat's Franciscan monastery and church established in 1484 for musical concerts amid lofty surroundings before walking the promenades and pebble beaches along the shoreline where fishing boats idle on the deep-blue Adriatic.
Luxury hotels in Dubrovnik welcoming discerning guests
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
With its prestigious location just steps from the UNESCO Old City of Dubrovnik, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is an historic villa built in 1913 and taking full advantage of gorgeous west-facing views of the glorious Old Town. Hotel Excelsior offers the most enviable location of any hotel in the city – just a five-minute walk from the medieval fortress walls. Feast at Sensus Restaurant and enjoy unconventional and creative dishes, made from fresh local delicacies and carefully paired with finest Croatian wines. Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik features three restaurants all offering spectacular views of the Adriatic, an indoor swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness centre.
Hotel Supetar Cavtat
Hotel Excelsior’s sister property, Hotel Supetar, has 16 spacious, elegant and custom-designed rooms in a unique Mediterranean style with private gardens, enchanting sea views and spacious outdoor areas. Housed in an original three-storey private villa dating back to the 1920s, built on the remains of the ancient settlement of Epidaurum, Hotel Supetar has become, after a complete renovation, one of the most exceptional boutique retreats in Cavtat. Situated between the picturesque streets of the small historic town of Cavtat and the uninterrupted blue of the Adriatic Sea, Hotel Supetar boasts a perfect location just a few steps away from Cavtat's charming promenade. Gastronomists will savour Mediterranean cuisine in the hotel’s gourmet restaurant where authentic delicacies are served on a romantic outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the bay of Cavtat and the Adriatic Sea on the horizon.
Hero image: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
From Amiri cars to a Popemobile, the Classics Gallery at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show in Qatar is set to offer a meticulously curated exhibition of historically significant heritage cars. Included as part of the experience of the main exhibition at the expansive halls of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), the Classics Gallery will prove to be a must-see for all discerning classic car buyers, collectors or car enthusiasts.
GIMS Qatar takes from place October 5 -14, 2023 and will open to the public on October 7. The Classics Gallery will showcase exotic and exceptional historic automobiles, including Best of Show winners from leading concours d’elegance events. The exquisite display gallery will also shine a spotlight on automobiles with Qatari provenance and pedigree.
Sheikha Hessa Al-Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning at Qatar Tourism, said: “The rich tapestry of the world's automotive heritage, including that of Qatar, will converge at the prestigious Classics Gallery, which is set to become a firm highlight at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show Qatar. The special exhibit pays tribute to the pioneering spirit that is embodied by this inaugural event in Qatar, and we welcome residents and visitors to explore the expansive displays and ground-breaking reveals that will take place during this influential motor show.”
Sandro Mesquita, CEO of Geneva International Motor Show said “I invite all to explore the 10-day ‘Ultimate Festival of Automotive Excellence’ which comprises global debuts and new model launches by world-renowned manufacturers, circuit driving experiences, exhilarating off-roading adventures in the desert, a programme of disruptive talks and much more. At GIMS Qatar 2023, you will get a glimpse of the future of the automotive industry while exploring its present and reflecting on its past, as you traverse through the different halls of the DECC. The Classics Gallery is a spectacle on its own showcasing outstanding historic cars of global repute”.
Mohammed Luqman Ali Khan, Curatorial Director and Author of the official event book said “On display at the Classics Gallery will be automotive jewels from world-renowned car collections. There will be an eclectic mix of extraordinary prewar and postwar vehicles including Best of Show award winners, fabled maharaja cars, official state motorcars, iconic roadsters, a grand prix winner and also a Popemobile. The ‘star car of the show’ is Qatar’s very own, the Rolls-Royce Phantom V delivered new to the then Amir of Qatar HH Sheikh Ahmad Bin Ali Al Thani after it was showcased at the 1962 Geneva International Motor Show. Phantom Chassis 5LCG25 truly represents the connoisseurship of Qataris, it is an automotive monument to the long-standing relations between Qatar and Geneva Motor Show. The spectacular exhibition of vintage & classic cars is a precursor to the ‘GIMS Qatar Concours d’Elegance’ planned for future.”
Spanning over 10,000 m2 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), the exhibition will host 30 renowned automotive brands, including Toyota, Lexus, Porsche, Volkswagen, Lamborghini, KIA, Audi, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Vinfast, Chery and much more. GIMS Qatar is set to showcase the latest innovations from industry, 10+ world premieres and 20+ regional premieres.
Alongside the main exhibition, GIMS Qatar 2023 will create the ultimate automotive festival of automotive excellence in Qatar with four immersive experiences taking place across some of the most prominent tourism destinations in the country. These include a "Future Design Forum" at the National Museum of Qatar, thrilling offroad adventures at Sealine, exhilarating ride-and-drive experiences at the Lusail International Circuit, and a grand parade of automotive excellence along the iconic Lusail Boulevard.
GIMS Qatar will be open to the public from 7 to 14 October, daily at the DECC from 14:00 – 22:00, and 10:00 – 22:00 on Saturdays. The event offers free entrance during weekdays and ticketed entrance, QAR 50, during weekends. Tickets, including those for free entry, are available on the Virgin Megastore website.
Qatar Tourism, in partnership with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), announced a deadline extension until August 15th to the highly anticipated Qatar Tourism Awards. Members of the sector are encouraged to apply and showcase their exceptional services and contributions in delivering outstanding tourism experiences for visitors and residents alike.
Winners of the Qatar Tourism Awards will be celebrated for their unwavering commitment towards excellence and officially recognised as being the best in the industry. Winners will gain global visibility and exposure by being exclusively featured on Qatar Tourism’s Visit Qatar website. This unique form of endorsement aims to attract travellers from around the world, driving them to explore and experience the exceptional offerings provided by the award recipients.
Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “The Qatar Tourism Awards is a remarkable platform that will celebrate and empower excellence within our industry. By launching this prestigious accolade, we hope to inspire and incentivise our industry to continue delivering service excellence that will further solidify Qatar’s position as an unrivalled, world-class tourism destination. With the deadline for submissions now extended, we encourage industry players to not miss this opportunity and ensure they apply to gain widespread recognition and outstanding benefits.”
The Qatar Tourism Awards will focus on three principal categories: Cultural Experiences, Smart Solutions, and Service Excellence, which highlight the different aspects of the visitor experience. Entry to the Qatar Tourism Awards is open to all tourism businesses, operators, entrepreneurs, visitor attractions, organisations, and events that operate in Qatar and promote Qatar to a domestic and international audience.
Applying for the Qatar Tourism Awards is easy, fast, and convenient, requiring just a few steps. To initiate the application process, interested participants can visit the Qatar Tourism Awards website at: https://www.qatartourism.com/en/qatar-tourism-awards
