Industry News

Carbis Bay Estate Launches Luxury Glamping Experience with POD St Ives
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Carbis Bay Estate Launches Luxury Glamping Experience with POD St Ives
Carbis Bay Estate are delighted to announce the launch of POD St Ives, a new luxury glamping offering set amidst the scenic beauty of St Ives and Carbis Bay defining 'The Art of Glamping.' Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate POD St Ives offers a range of five glamping pods, from quirky one-bedroom mezzanine boltholes with outdoor bathtubs to expansive two-bedroom lodges with private hot tubs. The PODS start from £295 per night and there are three styles to choose from: SPA POD: Sleeps 4 in two large ensuite bedrooms with cosy, comfortable beds and soft fluffy duvets and pillows, a living space flooded with light in which to relax and unwind by the fire, and fully fitted kitchens with a stunning breakfast bar and seating provide the perfect perch for gathering while cooking or entertaining. Outside is a snug covered decking area with snuggle-up sofas for evening star gazing, and steps leading to the enclosed Cornish walled garden where a hot tub, outdoor shower and woodstove can be found. FAMILY POD: Sleeps 4 in two bedrooms, one double and one cosy twin with comfortable beds, home-from-home styling, fully fitted kitchen and open plan living space with TV, sofas and a feature fire. An enclosed Cornish walled garden with hot tub, outdoor kitchen and terrace. MEZZANINE POD: Quirky and packed with comfort and style, one-bed glamping pods, perfect for a couple's bolthole, feature a mezzanine level which offers a magical glamping experience with a quirky twisting wooden tree-shaped spiral staircase leading to the raised sleeping area. Outside, a decked area with sofa seating leads to the enclosed garden with a copper bathtub and shower for a soak under the stars. Stays all include a continental breakfast delivered to your door each morning, and whilst guests are welcome to enjoy the restaurants and deli café at Carbis Bay, the Concierge team can also arrange to stock their larder with food and drinks, and any treats for their stay. There is also a delivery menu of grazing boards and handmade pizzas available for 'Pod-service'. Photo credits: Carbis Bay Estate All PODS have parking and private enclosed gardens and are dog friendly. Guests can also enjoy access to soon-to-launch "Nest Spa Garden," featuring a treatment room, a sauna cabin, relaxing spa seating and an ice bath for those brave enough for a dip! All guests of POD St Ives also receive complimentary access to the C Bay Spa at Carbis Bay Estate to use the facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna cabin, fitness suite, and a yoga room. Spa treatments can also be booked in the privacy of your own pod. Owner of Carbis Bay Estate Stephen Baker said “We are proud to introduce POD St Ives, part of the Carbis Bay Collection, an innovative glamping experience that combines luxury with the natural beauty of Cornwall's coastline. Our aim is to offer guests an immersive retreat where they can unwind and reconnect with nature, while enjoying the exceptional amenities and comfort that define Carbis Bay Estate. POD St Ives represents our commitment to creating unforgettable, sustainable travel experiences in this incredible location." POD St Ives provides an oasis of tranquillity in which to reconnect with nature all year round. Located close to the towns of St Ives and Carbis Bay with their many beaches, POD St Ives is perfectly placed to explore the local walks on the doorstep, activities, restaurants, bars, and local events.
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Ba Na Hills Golf Club Honored at the World Luxury Travel Awards
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Ba Na Hills Golf Club Honored at the World Luxury Travel Awards
Ba Na Hills Golf Club has added to its impressive accolades, securing the title of Best Golf Course Asia 2024 in the golf category at the World Luxury Travel Awards. Photo credits: Ba Na Hills Golf Club Designed by Ryder Cup-winning Team Europe captain Luke Donald, the club is renowned as one of the premier golf courses in Vietnam and Asia. This reputation was further solidified when it was recognized as one of the continent's most exciting golf venues by the esteemed panel of World Luxury Travel Awards judges. In addition to its recognition at the awards ceremony, Ba Na Hills Golf Club was also featured in the October issue of Travel Temptations, a bespoke publication linked to the World Luxury Travel Awards. “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award,” said Simon Mees, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “It’s gratifying to have our efforts acknowledged on the global stage by the World Luxury Travel Awards as one of the finest courses in the world.” The club’s success comes during a standout year for Ba Na Hills, a key player in the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) initiative, a newly revitalised marketing collective promoting the top golf courses of Central Vietnam. Last year, Golf.com, one of the world’s foremost golf publications, listed the club among Asia's 11 best golf resorts. Photo credits: Ba Na Hills Golf Club This latest recognition reinforces Ba Na Hills Golf Club's position as Vietnam's most awarded golf destination, reflecting its consistent ability to deliver a world-class golfing experience. Managed by IMG, the club features a fully floodlit, 18-hole championship course designed by Donald, offering players an unparalleled golf experience. Nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain range, just 30 minutes from the rapidly expanding city of Danang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is known for its scenic parkland-style course. The layout flows seamlessly over rolling hills, with sweeping views of lush greenery, sparkling streams, and tranquil lakes enhancing the experience. “Our goal is to continuously elevate the guest experience,” added Mees. “By staying true to this mission, we expect the accolades to keep coming. These awards reflect our team's dedication and passion for creating unforgettable experiences that keep guests coming back.” For more information about Ba Na Hills Golf Club, please visit www.banahillsgolf.com.
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Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa Honoured with Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award
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Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa Honoured with Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award
Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award, a testament to the exceptional experiences it provides to guests from around the world. This recognition, based on consistently high ratings and positive feedback from travellers, reflects the resort’s commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality and service excellence. Photo credits: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa Nestled amidst lush greenery and offering world-class amenities, Clarks Exotica has long been a preferred destination for leisure, business, and events. The resort’s dedication to ensuring the utmost comfort and satisfaction of its guests has earned it a reputation as one of the leading luxury properties in India. The Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award highlights the resort’s continuous efforts to enhance guest experiences through personalized services and a serene environment. Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Balaji M, CEO of Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa, said, “We are honoured to receive the Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating memorable and delightful stays for our guests. It is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, who go above and beyond to ensure that every visitor feels at home. We will continue to elevate our services to meet and exceed guest expectations in the years to come.” Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa continues to be a leader in the hospitality industry, consistently raising the bar with its state-of-the-art facilities, including the award-winning Ocean Convention Centre, premium dining options, and a holistic wellness spa. The resort’s latest accolade from Agoda further cements its place as a top destination for travellers seeking luxury, comfort, and unforgettable experiences.
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The Berkeley London rooftop to host immersive ski gondola dining experience
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The Berkeley London rooftop to host immersive ski gondola dining experience
Feast Off-Piste, a brand-new dining experience from Feast Events, will land at The Berkeley in London’s Knightsbridge this winter. Taking pride of place on hotel’s rooftop from 14th November – 1st January 2025, the immersive dining pop up will feature an authentic alpine menu to be enjoyed from the comfort of custom-made ski gondolas. Whilst the gondolas remain stationary, diners’ tastebuds will be taken on a journey as they enjoy an unforgettable festive experience accompanied by snow-dusted alpine trees and twinkling lights on The Berkeley’s exclusive Rooftop, overlooking Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. After being greeted with a glass of mulled wine, diners will experience a winter sharing menu including traditional Swiss raclette, tartiflette with freshly shaved truffle, a milk chocolate fondue – with edible candles amongst the items to dip – and gingerbread s’mores to finish. With unrivaled views of London’s skyline, diners can toast their experience with a supplementary winter cocktail menu and Champagne by Laurent-Perrier. Cocktails include Black Forest Espresso Martini, Aperol Negroni Sour and Blackberry Margarita. And when they’re ready for more, there will be a ‘ring for Champagne’ bell within each gondola. Groups of 4-6 can choose from four sittings, from 12-2pm, 3-5pm, 6-8pm or 9-11pm, with the option to enjoy pre-dining drinks on the rooftop’s lower terrace. To reach The Berkeley Rooftop, guests will be whisked up to the rooftop by lift, discovering a colourful mural by artist Chiara Perano along the way, inspired by the blues of London’s sky and the greens of the park. Once outside, staggering views of the red brick of Knightsbridge, the charming crescents of Belgravia and the vast scale of Hyde Park’s treetops await.
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Immersive Wellness in Japan’s Setouchi Region
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Immersive Wellness in Japan’s Setouchi Region
Japanese traditions have always heavily inspired global wellness trends - from shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and qi spots to Kon Mari. Here ways of mindful living and longevity are passed down the generations through a combination of unmodified foods, being out in nature and, of course, an ancient Onsen culture. Visitors to the Setouchi region can explore this proactive approach to preventative wellness on a bike trail spanning approximately 70 km between the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, at Japan’s oldest hot spring resort and by ‘brewing’ themselves in an historic sake-factory turned-guesthouse.  Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Be yourself and brew yourself in Mitoyo City  Mitoyo City in Setouchi’s Kagawa prefecture is home to all kinds of reflective and rejuvenating experiences. Chichibugahama Beach is a popular bathing spot but is also known for a natural phenomenon, the Mirror of the Heavens. Occurring at low tide when the shallow tide pools along the wide sandy beach seamlessly reflect the sky it’s best experienced at sunset on a still evening. Climbing to 352 metres above sea-level offers another perspective of the water from the top of Mt Shiude. The summit provides views of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands to the north, east and west and an ascent surrounded by hydrangeas in summer and cherry blossoms in the spring. For a unique cultural immersion book a stay at the Mitoyotsuru TOJI, a private guesthouse in a Sake Brewery that was founded in 1877.  Guests are invited to ‘Brew a New You’ following a wellness ritual that mimics the sake-making process and utilises the old equipment. The experience includes husking (undressing), rinsing in a steaming bath, fermenting in bath salts made from sake lees in the Grand Brewing Bath that’s still fed by the same mountain-sourced groundwater, soaking in converted barrels, relaxing in the sauna, and then aging, or getting a good night’s sleep! Guests can also sample various sakes during their stay.   Rates at Mitoyotsuru TOJI start from 29,700 Yen (£151pp) per night (correct as of September 2024), check in 4 pm, check out at 10 am. The inn offers shared sleeping space for up to 11 guests.  Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Rejuvenate at Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring resort  Following the completion in July of a five-year restoration project, Dogo Onsen Honkan in Matsuyama once again offers a place to experience the sacred atmosphere of Japan. This symbolic bathhouse, the main attraction of the wider Dogo Onsen, has a history dating back around 3,000 years and is mentioned in Japanese mythology. Nearby are two additional bathhouses, Emmanji Temple and Hogonji Temple, a Sky Walk where visitors can enjoy a foot bath with a view, and the ruins of an historic castle built in the 14th century. In 1994 the Dogo Onsen Honkan was designated a National Important Cultural Property.  The bathing experience here is fed by 18 naturally flowing hot springs whose soothing alkaline waters are ideal for skin care, alongside the many other therapeutic benefits of balneotherapy. In this main bathhouse there are two public bath options - the main Kami no Yu (Bath of the Gods) and the smaller Tama no Yu (Bath of the Spirits), with four bathing courses to follow in separate male and female areas.  On the upper floors of the building are relaxation spaces where visitors can relax in a traditional yukata robe, take a tour of Yushinden, the Japanese Imperial Family’s private bathroom, and, if the timing’s right,  hear the sounds of the drums. This sound was first struck to signal the time, and has been the signature sound of Dogo Onsen Honkan since 1894.  Dogo Onsen Honkan is open between 6 am and 11 pm daily (last admission at 10.30 pm). It is open year-round except for year-end cleaning. Entry fees range from Yen 700pp (£3.50) to Yen 2500pp (£13.50) depending on access and duration. A guided tour of the Emperor’s bathing facilities cost Yen 500pp (£2.70). All prices are correct as of September 2024.   Photo credits: Setouchi Travel Cycle the 70km Setouchi Shimanami Kaido sea road  The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic cycle route that opened in 1999 connecting Onomichi city in Hiroshima prefecture and Imabari in Ehime, and has been cited as one of the best cycling spots in the world. The route traverses more than six islands in the Seto Inland Sea, including Mukojima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima,  Omishima, Hakatajima and Oshima, with seven connecting bridges. The 4,100-metre Kurushima Kaikyo  Bridge between Oshima and Imabari was the world’s first triple-suspension bridge. The islands are known for their Mediterranean climate, quiet fishing villages and temples, and the Shimanami Kaido connects the different attractions of each island - from the area’s storied pirate history and the 700 Buddha statues on Innoshima, to Ikuchijima’s lemon groves and the fruit-forward craft beers and thalassotherapy of  Omishima. Bicycles can be rented on both sides of the Shimanami Kaido - in Onomichi City (Hiroshima side) at Shimanami Rental Cycles and in Imabari City (Ehime side) at the Imabari Central Cycling Terminal,  allowing visitors to enjoy the route in either direction. There are also additional rental locations along the way as well as around 140 cycle oases offering rest stops, guest houses and bicycle maintenance bases with facilities such as air pumps and bike stands. For experienced cyclists the whole route can be completed in around four hours but most people take at least two days to fully enjoy the route. There are cycle ships that operate between the islands so cyclists can return to their starting point by ferry.  Alternatively, they can take advantage of the Cycling Without Baggage service offered by participating hotels, hostels and ryokans which takes care of transporting luggage between accommodation stops along the route so guests can cycle freely and then continue on their way.  Onomichi Port is open between 7 am-7 pm (March to November) and 8 am-6 pm (December to February). Imabari Central Cycling Terminal (Sunrise Itoyama) is open between 8 am-8 pm (March to November) and 8 am-6 pm (December to February).   All these experiences are part of Setouchi Journeys, a series of 23 carefully curated tours through the Setouchi region that last between three and five days. For more information visit www.setouchi.travel/en/setouchi-journeys   The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways and Japan Airlines, from there it is a 4.5 - 5-hour journey via Shinkansen to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Shin-Yamaguchi. 
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‘Best in Travel Poll’ Names Alma Resort Cam Ranh Among Asia’s Leading Hotels
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‘Best in Travel Poll’ Names Alma Resort Cam Ranh Among Asia’s Leading Hotels
Alma Resort Cam Ranh has bagged a clutch of awards in Hong Kong-based Smart Travel Asia’s annual Best in Travel Awards, named among Asia’s top sustainable, family, and luxury hotels.  In the readers’ choice contest, Alma took sixth place in the awards’ ‘Top 10 Sustainable Hotels’, ‘Top 10 Family Hotels’ and ‘Top 10 New Hotels’ categories and placed ninth in the ‘Top 10 Luxury Hotels’ category. Photo credits: Alma Resort Cam Ranh  “Congratulations on an excellent result for Alma,” said Smart Travel Asia’s editor Vijay Verghese. “A very crowded field this year. Well done!” The 2024 Best in Travel Poll winners and details can be accessed here: https://www.smarttravelasia.com/travelpoll2024.htm “Our international audience … is well travelled, knowledgeable, and curious,” Smart Travel Asia said. “What travellers wanted in 2024 can be distilled into one word — experience. Experience is the new luxury that goes beyond the marble and price tag.” “In the end, these ratings are about how an experience made the traveller ‘feel’. It is all about the emotional takeaways. Hotels and airlines that performed well had a high feel-good factor, much of this based on personal interactions.” “As surveyed on our free, no-nominations, open-to-all, 2024 Best In Travel Poll (running July, August and September), our readers on average took 16 air trips (up by two) in the past year (with 18% taking 31-40 air trips and 5% over 50 trips). They earned an average US$172,000 per annum (household income; down from $178,000 in 2023) and over 60% visited direct via bookmarks, referrals, or through our monthly e-newsletters.” Photo credits: Alma Resort Cam Ranh  Bold, spacious and emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the independently owned and operated luxury resort Alma is making waves in Cam Ranh, a peninsula on Vietnam’s south-central coast that first found fame as Southeast Asia’s greatest deepwater harbor and is now rising as an upscale alternative to nearby Nha Trang. Alma is home to an awe-inspiring host of world-class facilities, such as an eclectic range of restaurants helmed by leading chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, a classical bar, pool bar and beach bar, and mini supermarket. Other drawing cards include a science museum, waterpark with a lazy river, wave pool slides and kids pool, 13-treatment room spa, cinema, convention centre, amphitheatre, youth centre with virtual reality games, kid’s club, gymnasium and yoga room, an 18-hole putting green, onsite gourmet organic farm and more.  For further information or to make a booking, visit www.alma-resort.com or contact Alma on +84 258 399 1666, or email info@alma-resort.com
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Nikki Beach to open new luxury resort in Antigua
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Nikki Beach to open new luxury resort in Antigua
Nikki Beach Hotels is set to open a new luxury resort in Antigua in 2028. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa will mark the brand’s first opening in the Caribbean and will be developed in partnership with investment firm Ayre Group. The resort will comprise 82 rooms and suites, as well as 181 branded residences that range from studios to villas of varying sizes. There will also be a beach club, Nikki Beach Antigua, with its own boat drop-off point. Additionally, there will be five food and beverage venues, a Tone Gym and Nikki Spa with therapy rooms, an aquatic centre and residence owner’s lounge. Lucia Penrod, co-founder, chief executive and owner of Nikki Beach Hospitality Group, said: “We look forward to introducing the Nikki Beach experience to the stunning island of Antigua, marking our first resort and residences in the Caribbean and our second beach club after Saint Barth. We look forward to expanding in the region and providing our guests with an exciting new destination where they can celebrate life with us, all while enjoying Antigua’s natural beauty, rich culture and vibrant community.” Calvin Ayre, chairman of Ayre Group, added: “This soon-to-be-developed five-star hotel on the beachfront of Antigua is poised to become an unforgettable destination in the region, combining luxury, convenience and modern living. As guests enter the property, they will be immediately immersed in its idyllic atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views.”
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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islands innovates to educate with ‘Eye in the sky’ conservation technology project
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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islands innovates to educate with ‘Eye in the sky’ conservation technology project
Guests at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, engage in real science and exploration, whilst supporting a major image collection project underpinning key research in the Indian Ocean.  Initiative launched in 2022 works collaboratively with leading scientists and marine technologists in a sophisticated ocean plastics’ monitoring programme to conserve some of the world’s most fragile natural environments using drone technology.  Progressive research community incorporates Dr Melissa Duncan-Schiele, Dr Luca Fallati,  MaRHE and Oceans Unmanned.  Follows introduction of first Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program to the Indian Ocean in 2021.  Photo credits: Guests at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is home to the first resort-based conservation technology project using drones in the Maldives. Launched in 2022 ‘Eye in the Sky’ (Udumathin Ioa), the unique partnership with leading scientists and marine technologists plays an integral role in a government-approved research programme to develop drone methods to search for, and quantify ocean plastics in the Maldives.   This progressive research community supports a major image collection and data processing project to monitor ocean pollution of plastics and map habitat health in the Indian Ocean, and a  first in the Maldives, allows guests to engage in the science, exploration and hands-on process of data collection using conservation technology. The team’s wider monitoring includes identification of discarded fishing nets (ghost nets) which are causing an increased threat to wildlife from entanglement. Any nets or large pieces of debris identified by the drones will subsequently be targeted for removal.  Dr Melissa Duncan-Schiele, an engineer focussed on fixed-wing water landing drone operations in the Global South for applications in marine sciences, built a team of scientists and commercially trained drone pilots, to create a unique community of conservation experts from across the globe.  The team, including Dr Luca Fallati of MaRHE, (the Marine Research and Higher Education Centre and part of the University of Milano Bicocca), use multirotor drones donated by The Ritz Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and a water-landing fixed-wing drone donated by USA-based NGO Oceans Unmanned.   Photo credits: Guests at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Image sampling occurs over the ocean and reefs at select locations and times which ensures temporal and spatial resolution for the researchers, and also strictly ensures privacy for guests.  After images are collected, they are processed and analysed for debris and the resulting data can then feed into a greater understanding of the distribution and densities of plastics in the Maldives over time.  Through The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program guests have the opportunity to join the research team in their groundbreaking work. The journey will start at the resort, where with professional drone simulation training software, guests will explore the latest scientific research with naturalists, while testing their piloting skills. Stepping out into the field, guests will navigate the ocean through drones piloted by the team, in search for ghost nets while experiencing the precious wildlife, endemic to the Maldives’ fragile coral reefs.   To support the environmental research and wildlife protection programme, the resort and community is set to create a meaningful and inclusive legacy for the Maldivian community. The research initiative will offer a unique platform for local children to visit and learn of the emerging importance of marine technology, including drones and hydrophones in monitoring marine life.  Key fieldwork will be held at MaRHE, one of the project’s academic partner facilities in the  neighboring Faafu Atoll, and who hosts world-class university-level education for local and international marine biology and environmental science students. Maldivian marine scientists will be integral to the ongoing evolution of the programme.  The methods developed at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and MaRHE are set to be introduced around the country, to create a network of dedicated drone operators. A sustained plastics monitoring programme will build a baseline for the dynamics of pollution, with the aim to support policy and legislation change at local, national and international levels.   For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands visit  ritzcarlton.com/Maldives 
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Whitsunday’s Coral Sea Marina recognised as the first Sustainable Tourism Certified marina in Australia
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Whitsunday’s Coral Sea Marina recognised as the first Sustainable Tourism Certified marina in Australia
Coral Sea Marina, based in Airlie Beach, Queensland, has become the first marina in Australia to earn Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia. This achievement underscores their commitment to global best-practice standards and highlights their leadership in sustainable tourism. Photo credits: Coral Sea Marina Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development expressed the importance of this recognition. “Our marina is uniquely located at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and as a destination marina we attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. We are acutely aware of the key role the marina plays in the development of a sustainable tourism industry in the Whitsundays and therefore, our commitment to effective environmental management is a key priority for us as a business. “We are thrilled to receive Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia and to be the first marina in Australia to achieve this recognition. This accomplishment highlights our commitment to protecting the natural environment and promoting responsible boating practices. “Sustainability has always been at the heart of our operations, this Certification will help us on our journey to continue to promote the concept of ‘travel for good’ to our guests, visitors and the wider community.” Ecotourism Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms Elissa Keenan, congratulated Coral Sea Marina on their achievement. “Coral Sea Marina is the first marina to be awarded Sustainable Tourism Certification. Achieving global standard certification is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. “It is also testament to the focus of the tourism industry in the Whitsunday’s region. We have 38 ECO Certified operators in the region and six operate their tour experiences from the Coral Sea Marina.   “Australia boasts the 3rd largest marine jurisdiction in the world, contributing $118.5 billion to our economy and supporting 462,000 jobs annually. It’s our responsibility to safeguard these waters for future generations. Ecotourism Australia is proud to have nearly 200 ECO Certified operators and over 700 marine-based experiences across Australia who are committed to ensuring tourism activities play a role in preserving our oceans across our region. Coral Sea Marina is further contributing to this commitment,” Ms Keenan said. Photo credits: Coral Sea Marina Sustainable Tourism Certification assesses businesses, through third party auditing, against Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised ecotourism standard across the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural, and socio-economic impact and sustainable business operations. Coral Sea Marina is dedicated to sustainability, integrating numerous initiatives throughout its operations. The Coral Sea Academy educates guests and locals on the environment, Great Barrier Reef, and eco-friendly boating. The marina features interpretive signage, a seagrass nursery, and citizen science programs. It also honours the traditional owners of the land, the Birri-Gubba Nation through cultural collaborations, signage, and online resources. Coral Sea Marina Resort provides environmental information, green boating guides, and updates via digital platforms and newsletters, promoting sustainability and respect for the Whitsundays' natural and cultural heritage. Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning destination marina in the Whitsundays, at the heart of the world-heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. It features 520 wet berths, two lively shoreside marina villages, and hosts 80% of the region’s on-water tourism experiences, including 52 commercial operators. With its inspiring events calendar and prime location, Coral Sea Marina is the ultimate place to stay, play, and explore the Whitsundays. You can discover more about them on our Green Travel Guide: Coral Sea Marina Resort | Green Travel Guide
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Liquid Journeys into the Essence of Japan at NAYUU Bar in Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An
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Liquid Journeys into the Essence of Japan at NAYUU Bar in Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An
Step across the threshold into a world where custom intertwines with innovation, where each sip tells a story. Paying homage to traditional Japanese drinking rituals, NAYUU Bar welcomes those seeking an extraordinary drinking experience. Photo credits: NAYUU Bar Nestled within NAYUU restaurant at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, renowned for its omakase menus crafted by Chef Alex Moranda, the bar shares the same dedication to artistry. Embark on a deeper exploration of intricate flavours with a beverage menu that extends the restaurant's culinary philosophy into the liquid realm, offering a sipping journey across the five core tastes — sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami — that come together to define Japanese gastronomy. A Timeless Ritual At the heart of the bar lies the Highball, a cocktail that has woven itself into the fabric of Japanese culture, cherished as a symbol of simplicity elevated to perfection. Enjoyed in dedicated bar sections across Japan, this staple drink reflects the art of balancing flavours with precision. NAYUU Bar honours this tradition through creative interpretations. The Sake Highball, with its refreshing blend of sake, fresh lime and ginger beer, provides a crisp start to the evening, while the vibrant Yuzu Highball combines Haku vodka with zesty yuzu cordial for a burst of citrus. The Umeshu Highball centres the subtle sweetness of Japanese plum wine, countered elegantly by the effervescence of soda water. Photo credits: NAYUU Bar Craftsmanship in Every Pour Explore a selection of cocktails that capture different facets of the taste spectrum, blending time-honoured ingredients with contemporary flair. Made with Roku gin, dry vermouth and salted wakame cordial, the Waka Martini is a nod to the depth of Japanese flavours, each sip evoking the elusive umami. Not a Margarita is another standout, reimagining the classic cocktail with 1800 Blanco tequila, hibiscus, agave and citrus. The Nam Hai Old Fashioned combines Coconut Michter's US1 bourbon with pineapple, Sampan aged rum and bitters, offering a tropical twist on an enduring favourite.Behind the bar, bartender Vo Duy Phuong crafts each drink with the passion and care of a true artisan. While rooted in a deep respect for tradition, his experimental approach pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a glass, showcasing the complexity and nuance of Japanese flavours. The Art of Sake Sake holds a special place on the menu. As the only spot in Central Vietnam offering both still and sparkling draft sake, NAYUU Bar invites guests to immerse in Japan's rich brewing heritage with a range of options from different regions. From delicate, floral notes to robust, full-bodied intensity, this sake selection is curated to please every palate. Guests can also elevate their dining experience at NAYUU restaurant with a sake pairing option. Exquisite Wines Discover an exemplary wine collection, featuring acclaimed selections such as Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve Champagne and Cos d'Estournel 2eme Grand Cru Classe AOC. To ensure the integrity of each bottle, NAYUU Bar employs the Coravin system, ensuring that every glass of wine reflects the same excellence as the day it was first opened. An Elegant Sojourn Arrive at NAYUU Bar for a remarkable beverage experience, hosted in a cozy, intimate setting. As guests proceed to the dining area, they carry with them the flavours and stories of the drinks they've enjoyed, making the bar an integral part of the NAYUU journey. The evening doesn't end with the meal — it comes full circle. Be sure to return to the bar for a dessert drink, perhaps a Nayuu San with coconut whisky and pandan, or a premium tea such as aromatic Matcha Genmaicha or fruity Japanese Oolong. NAYUU Bar also welcomes guests who may not be dining at the restaurant and simply enjoy a perfectly mixed cocktail. To discover more world-class drinking experiences at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, visit Fine Dining in Hoi An and follow #FSBestSip.
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