Luxury boutique property addresses guest demands for seamless internet access and the ability to instantly stream personalized content on guestroom televisions.BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — April 4, 2023 — Hotel Internet Services (HIS), a full-service provider of internet services and solutions for the hospitality industry, has announced a successful WiFi network upgrade alongside the implementation of BeyondTV with GuestCast streaming services at Hourglass Hotel. A property that combines modern-day elegance and convenience into a resort style setting, Hourglass Hotel’s recent investment with HIS will ensure that total guest satisfaction and relaxation extends to both in-room entertainment and the quality of online connectivity.As part of a renovation featuring a modern refreshment of its lobby, open courtyard, swimming pool, cabanas and guestroom/suite areas, Hourglass Hotel leadership also placed a priority on providing its guests with exceptional internet service quality and access to personalized in-room entertainment. By partnering with HIS, the upscale boutique property was notably able to address its WiFi service needs while working around other renovation projects in order to minimize disruptions or delays. With HIS technicians performing any necessary hardware installations as blocks of rooms become available following renovation, Hourglass Hotel was nonetheless able to swiftly deploy a WiFi network upgrade ensuring fast speeds and connection reliability. This was achieved thanks to HIS utilizing the latest in network hardware technology in addition to leveraging its industry-specific expertise. Examples include the strategic placement of advanced Ruckus access points, guaranteeing a strong and uninterrupted WiFi signal while eliminating any WiFi coverage dead zones that can often result in guest frustration.“Both internet access and streamed entertainment rank high on the list of guest priorities, so we likewise made it a priority to adopt the latest capabilities and ensure that when guests stay with us, they experience something that is both exceptional and memorable,” said Sonny Gulati, CFO, at Hourglass Hotel. “From the start, HIS has been very accommodating in serving our needs while our building underwent renovation and have continued to make themselves readily available should an issue suddenly arise. Our WiFi service now consistently operates at 200Mbps, which is sufficient to cater to bandwidth-intensive activities such as online streaming and ensure that guest experiences are always seamless. With casting services available in each guestroom, guests staying at our property can also look forward to effortlessly accessing the content they enjoy at home while on the road.”Using BeyondTV enabled with GuestCast, Hourglass Hotel guests can personalize their in-room entertainment experience thanks to the platform’s compatibility with thousands of mobile-based streaming apps. This includes instant access to all of the leading streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, HBO Max and more. The solution also importantly addresses guest concerns over security and privacy by automatically erasing all usage data when a guest checks out.For more information about the full range of technology solutions available from Hotel Internet Services, please contact Shelly Chandler at 866-265-7575 Ext. 737 or email shelly@hotelwifi.com.
Paramount Hotel Dubai Presents ‘Fly me to the moon’ - an array of offerings during the Holy month
This Ramadan, ‘fly to the moon’ with Paramount Hotel Dubai, where old Hollywood meets the spirit of Ramadan. Experience dazzling offers to commemorate the Holy Month, from international buffets to Suhoor in the city of angels to magical iftars with star-struck live performances. Paramount Hotel Dubai invites you to celebrate the month in a movie set worthy environment. Script your experience with the following offers and this Ramadan will be one to remember!A FLAVORFUL IFTAR AT THE STAGE RESTAURANTJust like the name suggests, this restaurant offers a plethora of performances. With live cooking stations and an interactive kitchen concept where Chefs can be seen firing up the grill, baking fresh bread, and putting their gastronomical skills to the test. Break your fast in a family-friendly setting and a deliciously authentic Iftar buffet for just AED195 per person in the colossal Stage restaurant.Venue: The Stage Restaurant, Paramount Hotel DubaiDate: 23 March – end of Ramadan, sunsetPrices: AED195 per personReservation Details: Call or WhatsApp +971 55 180 7559 | or email:restaurants@paramounthotelsdubai.com
SPEND YOUR SUHOOR STARING AT THE STARS, AT MALIBU DECKEnjoy an array of Middle Eastern and International specialties and beverages, including traditional Ramadan favorites, as well as a delightful variety of sweets and desserts produced by Paramount's kitchen masters. Suhoor will be presented at the Malibu Deck, Hollywood inspired resort style pool, with special deals and packages on delicious bites, traditional treats, extensive Shisha menu, a Californian-inspired food truck and live BBQ stations.Venue: Malibu Deck, Paramount Hotel DubaiDate: 23 March – end of Ramadan, sunsetPrices: a-la carte menu is available.Reservation Details: Call or WhatsApp +971 55 180 7559 | or email: restaurants@paramounthotelsdubai.com
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE PARAMOUNT’S SCREENING ROOM TO SPEND YOUR SUHOORAt Paramount’s Screening Room, a remarkable Suhoor experience awaits where you will find yourself gazing at scenic surroundings and watching your favourite movie stars on the big screen. If you’re looking for a more intimate Suhoor experience, Paramount Screening room is your spot! Your meal will be complimented with a movie, sporting event, home video, or anything that you wish to watch. Reserve the entire Screening Room for you and your guestswith a Cinema screen and state of the art surround sound, starting at AED2500.Venue: Screening Room, Paramount Hotel DubaiDate: 23 March – end of Ramadan, sunsetPrices: Starting AED2500Reservation Details: Call or WhatsApp +971 55 180 7559 | or email:restaurants@paramounthotelsdubai.com
FEEL LIKE A MOVIE STAR THIS RAMADAN WITHIN PARAMOUNT HOTEL DUBAI’S ROOMS & SUITESFeel like a Star and immerse yourself in a full Paramount experience with an offer you can't refuse! Old Hollywood meets the spirit of Ramadan, for a one to remember! Exclusively during the Holy month of Ramadan, Paramount Hotel Dubai welcomes families, friends and loved ones to gather and enjoy a memorable stay from just AED550 per night.Venue: Paramount Hotel Dubai Rooms & suitesDate: 23 March – end of RamadanPrices: From AED550 for 2 people per nightReservation Details: +971 4 246 6666 | or email restaurants@paramounthotelsdubai.com
Paramount Hotel Midtown Presents: “Reach for the Stars” - A Starring Line-Up of Dishes During The Holy Month of Ramadan 2023
This Ramadan, Reach for the Stars at Paramount Hotel Midtown and experience a delicious marriage of traditional Ramadan meals and old Hollywood glam for the ultimate foodie match made in heaven. CineScope Restaurant offers a unique light and airy atmosphere for an Iftar buffet, making it the perfect place to share good times with friends and family. While Malibu Sky Lounge offers the perfect backdrop of a late-night Suhoor experience with views of the glistening Dubai skyline.
A TRADITIONALLY DELICOUS IFTAR AT CINESCOPE RESTAURANTCineScope Restaurant offers real Californian freshness and relaxed vibes in a light, airy atmosphere. Spend time with your loved ones over a delicious Iftar buffet, promising an array of eclectic dishes to impress every taste, making it the perfect place to share good times and great food with friends and family.Venue: CineScope Restaurant, Paramount Hotel MidtownDate: 23 rd March - end of Ramadan, Sunset - till 9pmPrices: AED185 per person - Iftar buffet including Ramadan juices, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea. AED75 per child - Iftar buffet including Ramadan juices, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea.Reservation Details: Call & WhatsApp: +971 58 826 5729 |FBadmin.midtown@paramounthotelsdubai.com
A STARRY SUHOOR AT MALIBU SKY LOUNGE
Those who are looking for a memorable Suhoor experience with the most breathtaking view in town, will be able to Reach for the Stars at Malibu Sky Lounge. Perched on the 64th floor of the Paramount Hotel Midtown, a Hollywood inspired chic pool lounge offers classic Ramadan dishes served with the Malibu twist including traditional sharing Cold Mezzeh Platters, Grilled Halloumi Salad, Classic Soups. The Stars for the Feast will include the Vine Wrapped Seabass, Harissa Baby Chicken and Classic Moroccan Tagine followed by a range of authentic Arabic desserts with an old glam touch, accompanied with Live Oud performance, which is a truly magical and sacred experience that transports you to a world of beauty, appreciation and serenity every day from 9pm till 12am.Venue: Malibu Sky Lounge & Bar, Paramount Hotel MidtownDate: 23rd March - end of Ramadan, 9pm till 3amPrices: À la Carte Suhour menu starting from AED45Reservation Details: Call & WhatsApp: +971 58 826 5729 |FBadmin.midtown@paramounthotelsdubai.com
About Paramount Hotel Dubai The stage is set, and the red carpet is rolled out to revel in elegance and indulgence at the Paramount Hotel Dubai, in true Hollywood style. Conceptualized and created by the creatives, for the creatives, the hotel has 823 rooms and themed suites, all influenced by the studio’s talent for sophisticated design and creative entertainment. The many dining concepts cater to every taste, in the spirit of California’s eclectic cuisine and cool dining scene. Our supporting cast awaits you: come and be a star. Location: Paramount Hotel Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE Phone Number: +971 4 246 6641 Email: resturants@paramounthotelsdubai.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paramounthoteldubai/ For Reservations: www.paramounthotelsdubai.com or +971 4 246 6777. For more information, please contact: House of Comms: ParamountHotelDubai@houseofcomms.com About Paramount Hotel Midtown:Bringing Hollywood to you. California Dreamin’ at its best. Step into the sun and the spotlight at Paramount Hotel Midtown. With feel-good vibes, mid-century styling, awe-inspiring views and fresh culinary concepts, this hotel is where the Hollywood-chic go to ‘see and be seen’. Curated for the young-at-heart who love to be at the centre of it all, Paramount Midtown is perfectly positioned in Business Bay Dubai, just a stone’s throw from Sheikh Zayed Road, Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.Location: Paramount Hotel Midtown, Al Mustaqbal Street, Dubai, UAEPhone Number: +971 4248 3333For bookings: Call & WhatsApp us: +971 58 826 5729 |FBadmin.midtown@paramounthotelsdubai.comEmail: contact@paramounthotelsdubai.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paramountmidtownhotel/Website: https://www.paramounthotelsdubai.com/midtownFor more information, please contact:House of Comms: ParamountMidtown@houseofcomms.com
FIT Summit's Awards of Excellence recognize leading companies and executives from across health, fitness, wellness and hospitality in the Asia Pacific Region.11 awards will be given based on their achievements and successes in the past 12 months from April 2022 to April 2023 plus we will be giving our special John Holsinger Lifetime Achievement Award.
The 11 award categories open for nominations are:
App of the Year
Franchise of the Year
Deal of the Year
Technology Company of the Year
Corporate Wellness Company of the Year
Hotel/Resort/Spa Company of the Year
Boutique of the Year
Start-up of the Year
Fitness & Wellness Company of the Year
Executive of the Year
Industry Appreciation Award
You can submit your award entry now and before 30th April here: https://thefitsummit.com/events/awards/
Local sustainable organic skincare brand Skin Candy Maldives with the support of Elena Spas have launched the ‘Wellness Training Academy’ that will certify therapists at the International CITBAC level (considered the gold standard in the spa and wellness industry).
Opening this May, the academy will be the first of its kind in the Maldives. Spearheaded by Skin Candy Maldives, the core mission is to enable graduates to enter the flourishing wellness industry as qualified professional therapists and practitioners.
Anatomy and physiology is an online module for absolute beginners which is a pre-requisite for enrolling in the courses. All other courses are face to face and include beginners’ Swedish massage, manual lymphatic drainage, trigger point therapy, myofascial cupping, deep tissue massage, foot reflexology, hand reflexology and deep tissue massage. All courses are CIBTAC certified.
Ms Lubna explains there is an increasing need for high calibre wellness professionals to support the burgeoning hotel and resort industry in the Maldives. "Our goal is to produce highly trained and knowledgeable wellness professionals with progressive career plans to grow within the wellness industry," she says.
The academy also gives hoteliers and spa operators the opportunity to upskill their existing wellness teams. The top-quality academy is a fully equipped training centre only 15 minutes from Male by speed boat with classes personalised to small groups in a vibrant yet relaxed setting. All course fees include daily speed boat transfers, lunch onsite, and training uniform.
Courses will be facilitated by Ms Martina Crkonova who has over 27 years of experience in integrative and TCM medicine, as well as 15 years as a therapeutic educator and trainer. ‘‘This initiative will help transform tomorrow’s industry by providing local Maldivians and current resort wellness staff with a level of education and resources, so they don’t necessarily have to travel abroad to expand their professional career. Our passion is sustainability," explains Ms Lubna.
Courses commence from May through to September 2023. The first course launched in May, ‘Swedish massage’ for absolute beginners which is CIBTAC certified.
Photo credits: ELENA SPA
This year, the Earth Day’s theme "Invest in Our Planet" is about engaging thepartnership of businesses, governments and global citizens to commit and accelerate action against climate change towards a collective green future. With sustainability as a core DNA and designing zero waste celebrations, The Lux Collective brings together wanderlust couples from all over the world for wedding moments and romantic experiences that will last a lifetime, as it helps people Celebrate Life - in a mindful way.
With the quest for purposeful travel post-Covid, sustainable weddings are on the rise as couples plan their celebrations with sustainability as a key focus. Many couples are drawn to having a dream wedding in far-flung beautiful destinations, curated with more intention and personalisation.
In Mauritius and the Maldives, wedding couples can enjoy the romance of travel while embracing a sustainable approach, without comprising service and quality. Supporting local is not only a great way to support the community but also shine a spotlight on homegrown talents to sustain a circular economy.
Located on one of the island’s most coveted beaches of the north, the newest flagship LUX* Grand Baie, Mauritius offers a spectacular setting with a modern take on luxury paired with extraordinary experiences. Built in harmony with nature by local architect Jean-Francois Adam with Kelly Hoppen CBE in London who designed the spaces, the resort organises tailor-made beach wedding ceremonies and private celebrations at its contemporary Asian restaurant Ai KISU or at the rooftop Bisou with panoramic sea views. It offers the option of chauffeur-driven wedding car in a fully electric BMW iX to and from Port Louis and a customised wedding menu based on LUX* signature Keen on Green cuisine.
Situated at the foot of Le Morne mountain (UNESCO Heritage Site) and only 15 minutes from the Black River Gorges, the serene beachfront resort LUX* Le Morne, Mauritius embodies contemporary tropical island lifestyle paired with immersive experiences. Certified by The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste, a Singapore-based audited certification and benchmarking system to improve organisations’ bottom-line, the resort repackages leftover food for underprivileged school children to improve their nutritional intake. Food that cannot be distributed are used as compost in the resort’s 30,000 square metre garden space. Guests can also opt for a vegetarian or vegan menu from the Group’s wholesome Keen on Green concept, prepared with locally sourced produce and healthful cooking techniques.
The gardeners from LUX* Grand Gaube, Mauritius gather dried flowers andtwigs from the resort’s grounds to build the floral arch for solemnisation or vow renewal ceremony. The eclectic retro-chic resort has two tranquil beaches and gourmet dining destinations including the award-winning INTI Peruvian restaurant and Bodrum Blue Turkish restaurant. Here, all bouquets are sourced from small florists to support local businesses. Flowers can be repurposed after the wedding by sending them to a nursing home or a non-profit organisation to brighten up someone else’s day.At Tamassa Bel Ombre, Mauritius, set on a dazzling white beach with a turquoise lagoon, community and environment go hand in hand to keep carbon footprint low and help local farmers flourish. Wedding decorations include re-use of bamboo, dried coconuts and palm leaves from its gardens, which are then composted. Seashells are returned to the beach to reduce impact on the ecosystem of its protected lagoon. In addition, the bridal spa treatment will rejuvenate with locally-made bio products.
At the chic adults-only and sustainability-focused Mauritian hotel SALT of Palmar, Mauritius wedding couples are immersed in the heart of Mauritian life and given the opportunity to connect directly with locals via the Skill Swap programme – to take guests to people, not just places, at this colourful and artfully designed resort. The newly-weds are invited to plant a tree together as a symbol of their love and can partake in the “Little Extras” initiative to visit and donate a meal to 75 handicapped children of L’aventure Technical School.
In the Maldives, LUX* South Ari Atoll is the winner of Most Sustainable Wedding Resort - South Asia by LUXlife 2022 Global Wedding Awards. It hosts one exclusive wedding daily to give each couple the deserved attention. Ensuring the co-existence of destination wedding and luxury, couples can say “I Do” in paradise and celebrate the special day worry-free of its impact in beautiful nature. Purchasing a wedding package also funds the education of an underprivileged child and a visit to the children’s shelter. Alternatively, guests can choose to support the oceans and restore marine ecosystem with the marine biologist by adopting a coral frame.
The Lux Collective aims to impact and change the lives of individuals across the globe where it operates, one sustainable wedding at a time.
For more information on the dream wedding resort, please email reservation@theluxcollective.com or visit LUX*, SALT and TAMASSA websites.
Placemakr, a tech-enabled flex-use hospitality and multifamily operator today announced the launch of its third location in Nashville, TN, Placemakr Wedgewood-Houston. This latest property is located in the vibrant and rapidly expanding Wedgewood-Houston area. Placemakr will bring its signature blend of apartment living and hospitality services, like housekeeping and a 24/7 onsite customer support team, to guests and residents at the property. The property will open for booking on March 14th.
The newest property to join the Placemakr portfolio, formerly a Bento Living building, is located at 321 Hart Street in Nashville. It offers 89 furnished apartment-style units for nightly hotel, short-term rental, and long-term furnished housing stays. Guests of this property will have access to an outdoor rooftop terrace with views of Downtown Nashville, a fitness center, meeting spaces, an onsite bodega, a coffee bar, an on-site Pacific-Rim-inspired restaurant, and walkability to Wedgewood-Houston's top attractions.
Known for its lively art scene and monthly "art crawls," Wedgewood-Houston, or WeHo, is a buzzing sector of Nashville just blocks from Downtown. Guests of the new Placemakr property can enjoy many restaurants and bars within walking distance including: E+ROSE Wellness Cafe, Crest Coffee House, Jackalope Brewing Company, The Ranch, Diskin Cider Bar, Earnest Bar & Hideaway, Dozen Bakery and IL Forno. The area also includes Nashville SC's GEODIS Park and flea markets, ensuring that there is convenience and entertainment for every type of guest.
This announcement comes on the heels of another Placemakr property launch in Downtown Columbia Maryland. The company looks forward to continuing to expand its partnerships and footprint this year.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced the opening of Hyatt Regency San Luis Potosí, marking the first Hyatt property in the central state of Mexico. The 134-room hotel is a timeless addition to San Luis Potosí, offering seamless and stress-free experiences to business and leisure travelers in the most exclusive area of the city.
Hyatt Regency San Luis Potosí is in the Las Lomas neighborhood, which offers a vast array of fine dining and shopping experiences. The hotel neighbors the city's historic downtown neighborhood, filled with historical sites such as the city's cathedral, which displays the baroque style that San Luis Potosí's capital is known for, dating back to the 1600s.
Accommodations
Hyatt Regency San Luis Potosí features 134 guestrooms, with select suites featuring spacious outdoor terraces that overlook the Las Lomas neighborhood. Regency Club suites provide exclusive access to the Regency Club Lounge on the 9th floor along with complimentary food, beverages and a private lounge area. Guestrooms and suites offer ample spaces with beautiful natural light, modern furnishings, multi-functional seating or work desk areas, complimentary Wi-Fi and digital room key entry via the World of Hyatt app. Additionally, the hotel features a stunning outdoor pool and gathering space as well as a 24-hour fitness center available for guests.
Meetings & Events
Inspired by vanguardist décor, Hyatt Regency San Luis Potosí boasts contemporary style in a sought-after destination. Catering to business travelers with more than 10,000 square feet of technology-enabled meeting and event space and a 400-person theater space, the property creates inspiring and memorable events of any kind. The hotel is conveniently located five minutes from Plaza San Luis Luxury Fashion Mall, the San Luis Potosí Convention Center and many of the city's most recognized restaurants.
Dining Experiences
Guests and locals can enjoy a trip down the Californian coast - all the way to Baja California Sur with Chef Allan Gutierrez's fusion of California and Mexican cuisines at Sonoma, the property's vibrant full-service restaurant. For those looking to experience authentic flavors of the city, Hyatt Regency San Luis Potosí is home to Dry Martini, the award-winning and world-renowned cocktail bar by trendsetting entrepreneur, Javier de las Muelas, and is the only Dry Martini location in Latin America. Dry Martini offers unique, handcrafted beverages with a large selection of agave spirits, rums, wine, mocktails and more for everyone to enjoy. Opt for savory barbecue at Gaucho Prime or a light lunch of Mediterranean favorites at La Gran Vía Cava Baja San Luis Potosí.
Local Attractions
Besides its beautiful and historic capital, San Luis Potosí offers various points of interest within three areas: Altiplano, Media and the Huasteca Potosina for locals and tourists alike. Within the state of San Luis Potosí travelers will find many Pueblos Mágicos ("Magic Towns") such as Real de Catorce which is ideal for those who enjoy visiting the desert and mysterious ghost towns. For fans of green spaces, the Pueblo Mágico of Xilitla encompasses lush gardens, such as the famous Edward James' Surrealist Garden, which was built as a tribute to the town's intricate orography.
San Luis Potosi is a key business hub with a world class convention center minutes from the hotel. The state's geography places the city in a convenient location in the center of Mexico, allowing for easy access to Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.
Tribute Portfolio - part of Marriott Bonvoy's growing collection of characterful, independent hotels, welcomes its latest addition with the opening of laïla, Seychelles, a Tribute Portfolio Resort. Marking the brand's debut in the Seychelles, the resort offers an oasis perfect for island exploration and revitalization set in the serenity of a natural botanical paradise. Located close to Anse Royal, the photo-ready white sandy beach on the Southeastern coast of Mahé, the Seychelles' largest island the resort set to showcase the hidden gems of the island for travelers and locals who seek out independent experiences and crave a connection with the community when traveling.
Designed by MMAC Design, the resort has a harmoniously calming color palette complemented by bold pops of green which pay homage to the beautiful tropical surroundings. With carefully curated interiors, guests will appreciate the intricate detailing throughout, including the lobby ceiling which has been carved to reflect the shapes of the many islands in the Seychelles. Each of the resort's 76 bespoke guest rooms are decorated with nature-inspired aesthetics, featuring a mural of the Seychelles' plant silhouette, hand woven macramé bed board, and room separator made with wood and rattan, the natural materials often used in the island's traditional architecture. In addition, families or a collective of friends can choose from the resort's eight boutique suites, including the Senior Suite with a private plunge pool and private terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean and surrounding mountains.
The resort features no shortage of distinct amenities, including a water sports center, outdoor swimming pool, 24/7 gym, spa, barbershop, and kids' recreation area. Tailor-made for guests who want to be part of something and seek out experiences that draw them into a larger community, the resort's expansive activity offerings draw on the Seychellois spirit to captivate minds. Guests can take part in thoughtfully curated village experiences including Creole cooking classes, traditional weaving demonstrations, and evenings dancing around the bonfire to the traditional and charming sounds of Moutya music. Guests looking to live like a local can join insiders on day trips to explore the village market, embark on a fishing trip, hike through the jungle, or take expeditions to neighboring islands arranged by native experts. Additionally, guests can enjoy sunrise yoga, jogging along the resort's tropical trails, jewelry making using foraged shells, or opt for water sports including paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkeling at the famous uninhabited 'Ile Souris' coral island, which is frequented by an array of coral fish and sea turtles.
After a day of inspiring adventures, guests can relax at the laïla Spa with expert therapists who offer a full range of facial and body treatments, which include healing practices using only organic and handmade products made with local ingredients, such as coconut, vanilla, and cinnamon.
A foodies' haven, the resort features five restaurants and bars, designed to capture the spirit of the community and attract guests and locals alike. Laroul offers an international array of cuisines and cultures with a distinctive Seychellois touch throughout the breakfast and dinner services. Signature dishes feature daily catches from the Indian Ocean and seasonal produce, such as Grilled Red Snapper and Flambé with Star Fruit. Kafe Kreol Beachside Bar and Restaurant is designed with a rustic concept and décor, serving up authentic Creole and Italian cuisine paired with both classic and locally inspired cocktails made with Takamaka Bay rum and fresh local produce such as coconuts and tamarind. For guests who gravitate towards a sip and swim session, the poolside Laroul Bar offers expertly prepared drinks and snacks.
Tribute Portfolio participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy Members will earn points for their stay at the new resort, and at other properties across Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, 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 a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.
Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of its eighth hotel in Riyadh, Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center. This new addition forms an integral part of the Riyadh International Conference and Exhibition Center.
Situated in the capital city of Saudi Arabia and within walking distance of the city center and its state-of the art Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center is ideal for business and leisure travelers looking for a sophisticated atmosphere and a base from which to conduct their business and enjoying luxurious relaxation. Additional destination highlights include vast shopping malls, impressive skyscrapers, and cultural offerings, including the King ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Historical Centre, the National Museum, and the National Library.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center features 223 rooms, all of which have been stylishly designed with spectacular views of Riyadh. The heart of the hotel is the double-volume lobby that welcomes guests as a tranquil oasis from the city’s fast-paced life. The design elements of the hotel, from the breathtaking entrance to the tasteful decor in the guest rooms, deliver a feeling of modern luxury. Guests staying in the Executive Rooms and Suites have complimentary access to the Business Lounge, which offers Tea, Coffee and snacks throughout the day.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center offers two food and beverage venues. The Al Diriyah Restaurant and Lounge serves an international menu with some local touches and serves a variety of coffees from Camel Step, a local roastery. The Terrace restaurant is located on the second floor and is the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a night out with gourmet and BBQ comfort foods in a tapas-style setting while watching big sports games from around the world on big screen.
Tim Cordon, COO, Middle East, and Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, says, “We’re thrilled to cement our presence in the region further with the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center. We believe that business and leisure travelers from around the world will find the offerings of this luxurious and modern hotel perfectly suited to their needs.”
Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center offers nine distinctive meeting and events spaces, including the 400m2 Najd Event Hall, which can be divided into three separate sections and six smaller meeting rooms for more intimate gatherings. In addition, The Garden is perfect for social events.
Aldert van Zyl, General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center concludes: “I am delighted to lead the dedicated team of this new hotel. We are proud of our dynamic and multi-cultural team that welcomes all guests with true Saudi Arabian hospitality as we build genuine relationships with our guests and create memorable moments.”
Tourism Fiji rolls out a refreshed take on their renowned ‘happiness’ brand platform, just over a year on from borders reopening to tourists.
The new brand platform, ‘Where happiness comes naturally’ is a meaningful evolution that pays homage to Fiji’s local people, stunning natural environments, rich culture, and the authentic experiences on offer, encouraging travellers to discover a side to Fiji they may not have known existed.
A recent study into sustainable travel revealed that 66 per cent of travellers want to have authentic experiences representative of the local culture. Tourism Fiji is tapping into this growing consumer desire for meaningful travel that creates a connection to culture and communities.
Brent Hill, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Fiji, commented, “For over a decade our tourism brand platform, ‘Where Happiness Finds You’ has attracted people from all over the world.”
“During the peak of the pandemic, visitor numbers fell to almost 30,000 annually. As our borders closed and tourist numbers declined, Fijians showed that they are resilient and resourceful by carrying a strong sense of community and entrepreneurialism. Our visitor numbers have since been steadily growing, reaching 102.5 per cent of pre-pandemic numbers in December 2022.”
“With short booking windows becoming the norm, we wanted to roll out ‘Where happiness comes naturally’ to capture that demand and welcome even more visitors back to Fiji in 2023, showing them a side of the country that they may not have experienced. We are a small island nation with a lot of happiness to offer, and this new brand platform showcases the vibrant and diverse cultures and traditions that exist within Fiji.”
As part of the brand evolution, Tourism Fiji has announced five new travel pillars that it will develop and promote to tourists; Natural Environment, Adventurous Experiences, Community Connections, Recharge and Reconnect, and Food and Drink. These demonstrate a core range of authentic experiences visitors can have in Fiji, such as:
Natural Environment – explore the wonders of Fiji that have formed over thousands of years and connect with nature; Talanoa Treks’ 2 – 5-night hikes let people discover a different side to Fiji only accessible on foot.
Adventurous Experiences – for those seeking adrenaline-filled drift adventures, experience the Rainbow Reef – an underwater paradise discovered by Jacques Cousteau and known as the soft coral capital of the world.
Community Connections – take part in a traditional Kava drinking ceremony that dates to 3 millennia ago. The botanical marvel has been used in Fiji as a form of welcome at traditional social gatherings, and in cultural and religious ceremonies.
Recharge and Reconnect – soothe the soul with a dip in the Sabeto Mud Pool and Hot Springs. The therapeutic experience offers a natural remedy to help replenish the mind, body, and spirit.
Food and Drink – splurge on a personalised chef experience at luxury resort Kokomo with local female Head Chef, Caroline Oakley, renowned for her ‘cooking with heart and soul’ approach to food.
The rollout also includes a new logo that fuses modern and bold typography with the traditional Fijian art form of masi. It has been designed by Tourism Fiji’s global brand and creative agency Host/Havas, in collaboration with third-generation masi artist Wati Maraiwai Talavutu.
She commented, “Being given the opportunity to create a new logo that celebrates our heritage and showcases our traditions to the world has been an incredible experience. I’m proud to be a part of this new campaign that honours Fiji and the happiness we live and breathe every day.”
To showcase the new brand platform, Tourism Fiji captured its vibrant Fijian spirit using renowned National Geographic photographer Matthieu Paley.
The Maldives, 15 March 2023 – The Lux Collective’s beloved LUX* South Ari Atoll welcomed extraordinary guests for this year’s Women’s Day celebrated on the 8th of March.
Following the tradition, the renowned island resort hosted inspiring changemakers and thought leaders, who contribute to development of the Maldives, each in her own field. This year, the guests were invited for an Extraordinary Quest with pop-up surprises and hosted workshops designed to guide them on a new approach to daily routine.
Six women of different nationalities, professions and positions made it to the “extraordinary winners” list: Ajna Shareef - Aero Marketing Manager at Maldives Airports Company Limited, Shaistha Mohamed - MSP Engagement Strategist at Noo Raajje, Elisabeth Gressl - founder & designer of LANALA Swimwear, Mary Halym – self-made artist & owner of Kakuni Studio, Viktoriia Lavrinets - Lead Safety & Sustainability Consultant at NSURE, and Aishath Alaa Abdul Hannan - Deputy Manager of Corporate Strategy & Business Development at Trans Maldivian Airways. All of them shine brightly in their industries, supporting the Maldives towards a successful and sustainable future.
The unique journey started with a healthy snacks workshop at Umami restaurant, following a self-pampering class at LUX* ME Spa and an island tour. After an engaging Maldivian cooking class at the resort’s Herb Garden, the quest concluded with a celebration ceremony and symbolic presentation of the Extraordinary Women certification. With special gifts from the resort collected during the quest, the participants will be able to continue new self-care practices back at home.
“Every year, we inviteinspiring women from different industries across the country to celebrate their successes. From running a small business, teaching art, or rocking the corporate world, we want to appreciate their contribution, which is very valuable to the Maldives. We find it truly beautiful that both local and expat ladies from many nationalities call the islands their home and work together to make the Maldives shine”, said Anastasiya Babenko, Marketing & PR Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll.
The Lux Collective proudly supports women in their professional and personal growth, empowering them to excel. Recently accredited as the Great Place to Work, the group firmly believes in the importance of inclusion and emphasises #EmbraceEquity, thereby discovering and nurturing talented women leaders across different departments and levels wherever it operates globally.
