Golden Tulip are celebrating their diamond anniversary as the brand turns 60 this year, following an eventful year filled with noteworthy accomplishments, tremendous growth, impactful partnerships, and industry accolades.
An upscale brand which started its journey in 1962 with opening its first hotel in Netherlands to currently operating 160 hotels in 39 countries. The brand offers today’s travelers a unique experience through an uninhibited approach on business travel. Golden Tulip makes the business trip desirable through a simple equation: Entertainment, seamlessness and balance, fulfilled with local touch. A philosophy perfectly summarized in two words: Playtime. Anytime.
On the occasion of 60th year anniversary, Mathieu Rouri, Vice –President International Operations, Louvre Hotels Group, Paris said “It’s a pleasure for us at Louvre Hotels Group to come to India and celebrate our success amongst the several hotels in the country. A brand which believed in the philosophy of playful outlook on life, work and travel and perfectly summarized in two words: Playtime. Anytime”.
“For us, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate Golden Tulip’s 60th year and shares the excitement with our community, our guests and celebrate the long journey of success and growth in Indian Market too” said Anil Madhok, Executive Chairman, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts.
Sarovar Hotels currently operates 8 Golden Tulip hotels in India in Bhiwadi, Jaipur, Goa, Kolkata, Gurugram, Lucknow and Jalandhar and plans to open 7 more hotels in next two years.
MGallery under Accor’s premium category has already welcomed the QE2 by taking over operations from May 2022.
“MGallery selects unique properties with a passion to gather them into a unique collection of hotels where captivating stories are lived and shared. With more than 100 hotels around the world, each MGallery tells a unique story inspired by the location”
So the official brand description says, and given the type of unique property the QE2 is, MGallery sounds like a great fit. Let’s hope they take great care as before her retirement she had covered 6 million miles crossing the world numerous times. At the grand old age of fifty-five she is also the only ship where the Queen has sailed alongside the public, and was also used to carry British troops in the Falklands war.
The QE2 will get an extensive make-over with 10 meeting rooms 447 hotel rooms, 9 food and beverage outlets, retail spaces, gym, and swimming pool, and, as long as the character is retained, we’re all in favor of that. Having visited the QE2 many times we never felt like staying overnight but with MGallery it looks like things are about to change.
Whenever you board the QE2 you will find people from all over the world – many of whom having previously sailed on her still feel a strong affiliation – coming to revisit. Therefore, with a history of over two and a half million passengers there has never been such a global fan-base watching a hotel refurbishment. No pressure then.
The family-oriented luxury resort in the Maldives inspires by example, with an array of sustainable initiatives to support the global conscious travelling trend.
‘Empowered’ by the sunBeing one of the biggest resort islands in the country, LUX* South Ari Atoll is always on the lookout for new ways to make a difference and lower its impact on the beautiful natural surroundings. The property has installed one of the world's largest floating solar systems at sea, in partnership with Swimsol GmbH. Including utilised rooftops, the solar panels of the island power up to 33 per cent of the whole resort's use, powering all 193 guest villas during peak sun hours. The island cruisers that take guests around the resort are also powered by the bright Maldivian sunshine, saving more than 260,000 litres of diesel per year. Guests can track real-time solar energy production and consumption from their villas through the resort’s dedicated TV channel.
Planet-friendly resort experiencePlastic bottles and take-away cups at LUX* South Ari Atoll are replaced with glass and bamboo fiber alternatives, and the island’s very own water plant has saved about 810,000 plastic bottles since its launch in December 2011. All bathroom amenities in the guest villas, spa treatment products, and skincare collection at the resort’s LUX* ME Spa boutique are not tested on animals and made of natural ingredients. The brand’s signature Shirley Page treatments offer cruelty-free spa experiences with organic essential and body oils.
With Maldives being popular as a romantic destination, the resort goes an extra mile in sustainability when it comes to couple travel. Awarded the Most Sustainable Wedding Resort in South Asia, LUX* South Ari Atoll is proud to offer a unique Zero-Waste Wedding concept. Ensuring the co-existence of low-impact destination wedding and luxury, wedding packages are wrapped around sustainable island-chic style, with love for nature in the core. Moreover, every wedding celebrated at LUX* South Ari Atoll funds education of a child at one of the local care homes.
Special care for the oceansLocated in a Marine Protected Area, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers unique underwater experiences, from swimming with whale sharks and manta rays to studying local reef’s life. The on-site Marine Biology Centre in on a mission to support ongoing scientific research and protect the native wildlife population, restore and protect local environment.
In collaboration with its long-term partners in research and nature conservation, Whale Shark Research Programme and Olive Ridley Project, the resort organises charity auctions, updates the existing database of ocean inhabitants, and offers the Turtle and Whale Shark Adoption to its guests. Once a new resident of the atoll is discovered, a guest has the naming and ‘adoption’ rights, confirmed with a special certificate. The resort’s first ‘adopted’ female whale shark LUXMAS is a significant discovery for the ocean life research, as the majority of sighted species in the area are male. Since 2018 the island’s team helped to identify over a dozen of new ‘gentle giants’ around the atoll.
Coral planting workshops is another exciting activity that allows travellers to contribute to the ocean’s wellbeing. Travellers of all ages are invited to participate in reef restoration efforts as well as learning more about wonderful life under water. And to take their love to the ocean to a whole new level, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers the Coral Frame Adoption programme - a long-term initiative aimed at involving people from around the world into saving Maldivian marine life. Every guest signed up for the programme receives regular photo updates on the growth of their planted baby corals from the resort’s marine biologist.
Keen on GreenEvery restaurant at LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a great variety of plant-based, vegetarian, vegan, and raw dishes, from organic and locally sourced ingredients. The Keen on Green concept invites for a healthy and creative culinary journey, supporting sustainable approach to food and helping reduce carbon footprint. The resort’s passion for clean and green food got us recognised as the first as ‘Vegan-Friendly Hotel’ in the Maldives by Vegan Welcome. The island’s Herb Garden grows fresh herbs and vegetables for plant-based restaurant dishes and Master Chef cooking classes. During the stay, guests of LUX* South Ari Atoll have plenty of opportunities to learn more about ‘green’ cuisine: from tapping into amazing selection of vegetarian dining options to learning how to regrow their own herbs back home and cook healthy meals for the whole family.
For its dedication to waste-free guest experience and care for nature, the resort has been recognised by numerous awards and it also holds a Green Globe certificate.
To learn more about sustainability initiatives at LUX* South Ari Atoll, visit www.luxresorts.com or follow the resort’s Instagram page @luxsouthari.
It takes a truly special company or individual to distinguish themselves on the global wedding landscape. Indeed, while all industries demand a certain dedication to excellence, the luxury events sphere seeks only the best, and only the best can find enduring success. For this reason, LUXlife launched the Global Wedding Awards to highlight those that have remained steadfast and unwavering in this commitment and pursuit towards perfection.
Awards Coordinator Emma Pridmore took a moment to comment on the success of the winners: “The wedding industry has long been a difficult one to excel in, and all of our winners are made of outstanding stuff. I am proud of each and every one of my winners and I hope to hear more about your success in the years to come. I offer a heartfelt congratulations to you all.”
To find out more about these prestigious awards, and the dedicated establishments that have been selected for them, please visit https://www.lux-review.com/lux_awards/wedding-awards/ where you can view our winners supplement and full winners list.
April at LUX* South Ari Atoll was full of engaging events and workshops, with creative souls from around the world invited to express their love for the Maldives.
A visiting artist from Germany, Jeaninne Platz, is a renowned calligrapher and an artist with marine focus. She is famous for painting using only her hands and a scrapper. Over the years, she has been established as an artist thanks to her unique talent. Her artworks and classes are hosted in galleries across the globe. Guests of LUX* South Ari Atoll of all ages and skills were invited for unmatched painting expriences, including a calligraphy egg decorating workshop.
Not forgetting local talents, the resort also invited Mariyam Barsha Mohamed - a self-taught artist who learnt her craft through experience. Already well established within the islands, she works mostly with acrylics but likes to explore different mediums Today Barsha is known for the dot art she does, and she shared her famous colourful technique with the guests of LUX* South Ari Atoll.
Another local talent, Hassan Raaif Siraj, has been involved in the world of art since he was a toddler, starting his career in the field at the age of 16 and named one of the Top 10 artists by GCE Art and Design for remarkable lifelike works. His famous paintings reflect the natural beauty of the country and island lifestyle, impressing both guests and residents in the Maldives.
Together the visiting artists also performed two live painting sessions, blending their unique techniques of depicting ocean view into large combined canvas. The artworks were displayed across the island, available for purchase for all art admirers.
The art of sound was embraced at Beach Rouge, during the special music set played by the celebrity DJ Bianca Gaiscoigne from United Kingdom. Along with signature drinks, guests enjoyed her signature mixing style at the ideal ocean sunset spot of the island.
Famous for its creative approach in every detail, LUX* South Ari Atoll will keep helping people Celebrate Life in bright colours with new artistic experiences for its guests.
The Readers' Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry. More than 800,000 transatlantic readers submitted responses rating their travel experiences across the globe to provide a full snapshot about the places they can’t wait to return to next.
The voting for all participating properties and destinations is now open at the link https://www.cntraveler.com/RCA/VOTE
Every time you submit a completed rating between April 1, 2022 and June 30, 2022, you'll be entered for a chance to win a sailing for two from Stockholm to Bergen with Viking Cruises. The more you vote, the more chances you'll have to win! If you are a U.K.-based reader, you need to head back to cntraveller.com/rca2022 once you have entered the survey here to enter the U.K. competition to win a holiday to South Africa–worth £20,000!
SATA has announced an extension to the self-nomination deadline. Originally scheduled to close on April 10, the deadline has been extended by a further 4 weeks to, May 10.
This year has seen an unprecedented number of requests for the extension due to Covid and Economic crisis across the region.
SATA opened the nominations with over 52 categories for properties and brands to compete, in addition to Visitors Choice Awards and Special Recognition Awards.
SATA has been endorsed by over 15 International and government agencies for its work to elevate tourism and hospitality in the region.
Properties can now nominate online via www.southasiantravelawards.com until 10th May 2022. The Awards and Gala of South Asian Travel Awards is to be held in the Maldives on September.
The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) has been recognizing the best of South Asia’s hospitality and travel industry since 2016. The prestigious annual event honors stellar organizations and individuals in a wide array of categories.
Eco-conscious weddings are on the rise as couples become more mindful of how their celebrations impact the environment. With travel restrictions easing and vaccinations available, many are buoyed by the prospect of celebrating their big day in far-flung, beautiful destinations, but with more intention and personalisation.
An island nation like Mauritius is ideal for a sustainable lifestyle, and what makes it even better is that going down the sustainable route does not mean sacrificing on quality. Hiring local is not only a great way to support the local community but also shine a spotlight on homegrown talents to sustain a circular economy.
Bespoke bridal gowns from repurposed fabrics
Meet Mauritian wedding dress designer, Daphne Ducasse. She creates bespoke and sustainable gowns using materials amassed over the years in her workshop or fabrics that are readily available in Mauritius. Leftover fabrics are repurposed to make one-of-a-kind accessories to minimise environmental impact.
Daphne grew up watching her grandmother creating beautiful wedding dresses, she loved seeing the joy on the brides-to-be faces when trying on the gown of their dreams.
“It was the craftsmanship, the delicate fabrics, the intimacy with each bride, and the endless possibilities to create something new each time that made me realise this is what I want to do with my life,” said Daphne.
After graduating from a fashion art and design school in Paris and Cracow, she launched her made-to-measure brand, Daphné D., that encapsulates her values to respect the art, artisans and the women who wear her clothes. Beyond carefully designing for low environmental impact, the core of the brand is for women, by women. By creating employability and valuing fair treatment for her team, she empowers the locals of Mauritius.
Repurposed wedding dresses
Gone are the days where wedding dresses are worn once and vacuumed-packed for the rest of days. Daphne also specialises in repurposing pre-loved bridal gowns as cocktail dresses to give these single use dresses new leases on life. Her bespoke gowns can also be designed and conceptualised from the start for easy assembly and disassembly into unique pieces that can be worn for a long time.
This exclusive collaboration between Daphné D. and LUX* Resorts & Hotels in Mauritius is dedicated to providing unique experiences for the discerning LUX* guests whilst affirming the group’s commitment in caring for the environment and the local community in which it operates.
Zero waste celebrations
Certified by The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste, a Singapore-based third-party audited certification and benchmarking system on food waste designed to improve organisations‘ bottom-line, LUX* Le Morne repackages leftover food to send to a neighbouring school for underprivileged children so they can improve their nutrition intake, hence improving their concentration during classes. 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 Keen on Green concept, launched across the group this Veganuary, where produce are locally sourced and prepared with healthier methods.
Loving the rustic theme? The gardeners from LUX* Grand Gaube gather dried flowers and twigs from the resort’s grounds to build the floral arch for solemnisation or vow renewal ceremony. All floral 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 that the resorts work with to brighten up someone else’s day.
Signages and placards are lovingly hand crafted by LUX* Belle Mare’s Junk Art team using shells, dried flowers, driftwood or any recycled materials found on the island.
The newly opened LUX* Grand Baie offers chauffeur-driven wedding car in a fully electric BMW iX to and from Port Louis.
To tailor a dream destination wedding, vow renewal ceremony or sequel wedding with a bespoke bridal creation by Daphne D., contact Ms. Kareen Rault, Sales Manager at The Lux Collective, at kareen.rault@theluxcollective.com or visit www.luxresorts.com.
For the latest updates and promotions, follow LUX* Resorts & Hotels.
The first of the luxury brand’s properties in the region is now open for discerning guests. Located in the northeast of Koh Samui, just a short ride away from the Koh Samui International Airport, Kimpton Kitalay Samui will be the island’s newest luxury beachfront resort. Tranquility and privacy will be easy to find as the resort occupies a quiet cove along the pristine Choengmon Beach, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Meaning “a joyous ode celebrating the siren song of the sea”, Kitalay is an enchanting fusion of contemporary design and traditional accents. This highly-anticipated opening promises to showcase the true Samui way of life, through the brand’s signature heartfelt service, locally-inspired dining concepts, and distinct design approach to create exquisite experiences.
Resort’s 138 design-led rooms and pool villas with rustic touch feature earthy colors and wave-inspired furnishings, complemented by Thai basketry motifs and local artworks. The handmade cotton robes offered to the guests are tailored by local Samui craftsmen. Oversized bathtubs welcome to explore signature sea salts, bath milk and bombs, and patchouli-scented amenities.
Five distinct dining venues of Kimpton Kitalay Samui include LANAI a new kind of library cafe with finely-curated coffees, artisanal teas, and local spirits, and the Fish House - an elevated beach house all-day dining. The hotel’s Ocean Lounge and Pool Bar invite for refreshing poolside cocktails and beach events, along with Boho - a Thai lifestyle café. Fresh bakery is available at HOM Baking Company together with confectionery and specialty drinks.
The wellness offering of the resort consists of Pimãanda by HARNN - the “Paradise of Wondrous Sea”. And after visiting a 24-hour gym, guests can are invited for a refreshing dip in the resort’s outdoor pool or their own private villas pools.
Families will appreciate a 500sqm Kids Club at Kimpton Kitalay with creative play and active spaces offering a variety of activities and visits to the resort’s Herbs Garden. And the signature Kimpton Kitalay Samui’s Pets Programme will take care of furry guests with special amenities and treats, and pet spa experiences.
Photo credits Kimpton Resort & Restaurant Group
The brand new hotel is located in the prime Futian business district, on the upper floors of the 79-story UpperHills tower. All 178 rooms and suites offer stunning views over glorious parks, soaring skyscrapers, and the bustling Shenzhen Bay. Spacious and stylish, accommodation of Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen is an oasis-style city retreat allowing busy travelers to fully unwind. Large marble bathrooms feature a walk-in shower, double basins, and branded toiletries. High-floor suites of the hotel also provide the guests with Club lounge access.
Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen features 8 dining spaces: innovative Cantonese-themed fine dining from famed Chef Fei; Bazaar which focuses on Asian cuisine; rooftop MO Bar; Lian Lounge with Afternoon Tea menu; French seafood Opus 388; Japanese RIN; Spanish Tapas 77, and The Mandarin Cake Shop.
A sublime spa of the hotel offers luxurious treatments and rituals, while an indoor heated swimming pool and a sophisticated gym make up the exceptional wellness offering of the property. Additionally, the luxury portfolio property features impressive meetings and events spaces, and a helipad.
Photo credits Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
The renowned international restaurant concept is walking into the Maldives with the world’s first floating Zuma outlet. Located in the tropical paradise of the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, it will offer its guests upscale bespoke service and unforgettable experiences, complementing the high hospitality standards of the luxury brand.
Founded in London in 2002, the globally acclaimed Zuma is inspired by the traditional Japanese izakaya and is now present in seventeen locations worldwide. Zuma Maldives will showcase the beauty of its stunning location, using natural materials and locally inspired design elements in its interior concept.
Zuma Maldives will serve its famous specialties, including sliced seabass with yuzu, roasted lobsters, shiso ponzu butter, and spicy beef tenderloin. The dedicated lounge area will offer signature beverages with breathtaking sunset views over the island and the surrounding turquoise waters. The well-awaited restaurant is set to open within several months and is already creating excitement in the market, promising unforgettable dining.
Apart from experiencing the unique Zuma Maldives, guests of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi will also enjoy a variety of available activities, whether it be relaxing in one of ten luxurious spa treatment villas, exploring the ocean’s incredible underwater world, or the island’s dazzling white-sand beaches. The resort welcomes its guests at 119 Beach, Reef, and Overwater villas, all with private pools, along with an ultimate escape and unparalleled levels of privacy and personalized service of Ithaafushi - the largest private island in the Maldives.
Photo credits Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that Hyatt as a partner has joined the Red Sea Development Company for a hotel on the west coast of Saudi Arabia. This will be an ambitious project by Red Sea and Hyatt hotels collaboration for a Grand Hyatt Hotel of 430 rooms on Shaura Island. This hotel will be a luxurious addition, the largest of the 11 hotels set on Shaura Island. It will be the largest hotel on the Island, the second largest in the Kingdom, and the Seventh largest in the Middle East. This Grand Hyatt hotel will mark an important milestone in development strategy in the region.
The grand hotel is located very close to the area, which will become Red Sea International Airport in the near future. Grand Hyatt the Red Sea will be reachable with no trouble from both national and international markets. It is located on a location that is the only position in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to benefit from soft temperatures around the year and is habitat to one of the chief barrier reefs in the world. An attractive blend of suites and huge regular rooms will offer guests a relaxed and expensive place to discover the continuous magnetism and varied ecosystem of the area. The outstanding food and beverage setting and the huge range of amenities, which will consist of a marina and golf course, will add to the magnificent experience of this world-class setting for its guests. The Red Sea Project is planned to add a new value to the sustainability of Saudi Arabia and bring it forward on the international tourism map.
Photo credits Hyatt Corporation
