november/december 2016 Issue 16
Essential reading for hotel operators, owners, developers and investors
The Preferred
choice
A chat with Lindsey Ueberroth
Slovenia Must visit!
Dine Equity’s
Regional growth plans
Chef Fabio Vitale La Cucina, Riyadh
Top hotel Wellness A dedicated look at the regional wellness industry
VingCard Allure
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Top hotel Middle East is published in association with Signature Media LLC & Freizeit-Verlag Landsberg Gmbh.
Adding value and generating revenue SIGNATURE MEDIA FZ LLE P. O. Box 49784, Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 3978847/3795678 Email: info@signaturemediame.com Exclusive Sales Agent Signature Media LLC P.O. Box 49784, Dubai, UAE Publisher: Jason Verhoven jason@signaturemediame.com Sales Manager: Sunil Ross Sunil@signaturemediame.com Managing Editor: Munawar Shariff munawar@signaturemediame.com Art Director: Tamara Eger ravi@signaturemediame.com Production Manager: Roy Varghese Roy@signaturemediame.com
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FREIZEIT-VERLAG LANDSBERG GMBH Johann-Arnold-Straße 32b+c, D-86899 Landsberg am Lech Postbox 101255, D-86882 Landsberg am Lech Telephone +49 (0)8191- 947 160 Fax +49 (0)8191- 947 16-66 www.tophotel.de Managing Directors: Thomas Karsch, Eckhard Lenz Contributor’s opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor and while every precaution has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this handbook is accurate and timely, no liability is accepted by them for errors or omissions, however caused. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Signature Media FZ LLE & SIGNATURE MEDIA LLC and cannot be reproduced in any form without written permission.
Preferred Hotels and Resorts brings a unique proposition to the market. Their strategy seems to be working well for them, as they continue to experience success the world over. Lindsey Ueberroth, President and CEO, credits that to a few things, “We have positioned the whole brand quite differently to the consumer. We’ve added value by launching the point space loyalty programme in our family of independent hotels, where it’s not just about points, but actual cash value that can be used towards multiple things. That’s been a big game changer for us. We continue to launch new programmes and initiatives, catering to the needs of the market, like with Preferred Family or Preferred Golf, and now even Preferred Residences,”she explains Preferred Hotels and Resorts have also forged brand level partnerships on a corporate level, which would otherwise be inaccessible to hotel owners. From travel management companies, to names like American Express, to portals like Trivago, they bring the benefits of these brand level partnerships to their hotels.“Another important element is our quality assurance programme. Obviously, this sets the standard of what to expect for the hotel and for the customer. But we have taken this a step further. Instead of having just an inspection, we have rolled out an online programme that takes the top 20 review sites, and aggregates what’s happening there against our quality assurance. We also give hotels a tool where they can respond in real time to these review sites, and, like us, constantly look at adding value and generating more revenue,”adds Ueberroth. Page 20. In our Destination report we take a look at Slovenia where tourism represents an important economic activity with various multiplicative effects and high potential for development and growth. Recently released data shows that Slovenia’s economy gained traction in the second quarter and GDP expanded 2.7 per cent on an annual basis, thus improving over the previous quarter’s increase. The encouraging figure was driven by an improvement in domestic economic conditions, for private consumption in particular, which grew at the fastest rate in nearly two years in Q2. The latest high frequency data shows that the economy likely maintained the positive momentum in the third quarter. Enjoy the rest of the year and we will see you in January, 2017. InshaAllah! Munawar Shariff Managing Editor munawar@signaturemediame.com november/december 2016 3
Contents
november/december 2016 Issue 16
34
50
20 06 Top hotel Undercover 46 So many more places
A new hotel on the horizon
Testing the Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa
10 News All the latest from hotels in the region 20 cover
The Preferred choice
A chat with Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO and President, Preferred Hotels and Resorts
30 An established mid
50 Chef Interview
A passion for food
La Cucina at Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, has a new Chef and a new look
Culture
Key takeaways from HVS’s recently held Boutique Hotel Investment Conference
Connect with nature
64 Vitamins for your skin
40 The best of India in
Dubai Celebrated Indian designer Ritu Kumar on her brand’s stronger presence in Dubai
4 november/december 2016
60
56 Price. Convenience. 60 Rethinking the
Slovenia is quickly emerging as the preferred travel destination for the world
to stay!
Tophotelprojects brings you the latest developments in the hotel industry worldwide
market niche Daniel Del Olmo, CEO, DineEquity Inc, on growth plans in the region
34 Destination report
footprint Sustainable options for hotels
Elemis launches Superfood Facial Oil
66 Products review
Time for skin renewal
Winter is coming. Hopefully! Which means a break to the existing skin care routine and a reboot for the skin
63
Top hotel Undercover
A new hotel on the horizon
Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa located by the coast and on the border with Ajman, is a new property. So although it was packed and bustling with guests on the day ThME decided to stay over, we did not return impressed
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About Top hotel Undercover Building on the legacy established by our big brother publication - Top hotel - in Germany, Top hotel Middle East sets out to highlight all that is great and good about the fivestar properties in the Middle East, as well as the things that such prestigious properties should really do better. Top hotel has built its reputation on fair and balanced assessment of five-star hotels in Europe and beyond; we now pledge to carry on that tradition in the Middle East. We hope that by highlighting the good and the bad, we can help to raise standards across the region and recognise the properties that have clearly got it right.
Top hotel Undercover
The hotel was easy enough to find and we were there within a 40-minute drive from Dubai. The approach to the entrance was a bit tight, as many cars were lining up to get their vehicles valet parked. We got our valet ticket and went inside to check-in. There were around four check in counter and all had people waiting to be served. On the opposite side the concierge’s desk was also being used to check guests in. We were checked into a spacious Club room on a higher floor. On a weekend the rate for the room was AED 750 plus taxes and breakfast as well as snacks all around the clock in the Club Lounge.
Reservation While we checked the rates online and decided on going the hotel website’s route to perhaps gain a better daily rate; we were right and did receive a better rate through the property. Evaluation: Excellent
Check-in We had requested for an early check-in and got the room of our choice ready and waiting for us since noon. Once we had checked-in, we were led to our room which was in a separate building facing the pool. I asked about the Club Lounge and was told that it was in the other building on the fourth level. This I thought was a bit odd, as if you wanted some snacks or a cup of tea you had to walk over to the other building adjacent to this one and then get to the lounge. Evaluation: Good
november/december 2016 7
Top hotel Undercover
Room 110 The room was large. It had a passage as the door opened into the room. The bathroom was on the right and the closets on the left. Once you got inside the room. The bed was on the right and the television on the left on an extended console which also had a chair at the end of it to be a work desk. Right at the opposite of the entrance of the room was the floor to ceiling window and spacious balcony overlooking the pool area. Since it was a very busy weekend the pool area was really full of families with kids playing around, it was all very noisy. The balcony doors were hence better off shut. There was a comfortable seating area right in front of the balcony as well inside the room. So you could enjoy the views without the noise. Being a new build, the decor was minimalist and had a dark colour palette. The mini bar and fridge were in the last closet by the room, with the usual tea and coffee making facility. Evaluation: Good
Bathroom A large bathroom with double sinks on the front as you entered, the shower stall on the right and the wc beside it. Opposite all these was the tub. Amenities were by in house brand Shine for Sheraton. The incident to report here is, as soon as I checked in and used the washroom, the wc showed a leak as there was water collecting all over the floor. I called and asked for it to be fixed. Soon enough the maintenance person came and took around 30 minutes to fix and left. He sent the housekeeping staff to clean the bathroom once he was done. This was not the last of a leaking incident in the bathroom. Later on when I was done showering, I felt a drop of water fall and looked up to see a hole in the paint in the ceiling from which a drop of water was continuously leaking and it didn’t look like it had just started. Evaluation: Poor
Snacks at the Club Lounge The lounge was very spacious and perhaps had the best views of the beach front and coastline. It also had multiple seating options for guests to enjoy their snacks and take in the views depending on the size of the group. The snacks on offer were a variety of sandwiches, nachos, cupcakes, mini shawarma, shish tawook, steamed vegetables, fresh fruits, and tea, coffee, hot chocolate.etc. Evaluation: Good
Breakfast at Gusti The breakfast buffet was quite busy. We were asked to seat ourselves wherever we pleased. The breakfast buffet had all of the usual suspects and everything was fresh and delicious. Service was prompt. Evaluation: Good
Check-out 10.45am Again check-out was busy as check-in was. We were asked to wait our turn. Check-out was very smooth. Evaluation: Excellent
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Top hotel Undercover
Hilton, Fujeirah Reservation: Excellent
Top hotel ratings 0-20 - Un-satisfactory 21-40 - Poor 41-60 - Satisfactory 61-80 - Good 81-100 - Excellent
Check-in: Excellent Room 110: Excellent Bath: Excellent Floor service: Excellent Landscaping: Excellent Breakfast buffet: Satisfactory
Top hotel Undercover opinion:
61-80 Good
Fitness: Excellent Corridors, elevators, stairs: Excellent
Total: 61%
Housekeeping: Satisfactory Check out: Excellent 0
20
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60
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100
november/december 2016 9
Qatar Airways launches Giorgio Armani amenity kits Qatar Airways, in partnership with Giorgio Armani Beauty and Fragrances, has launched its newly designed range of luxurious Giorgio Armani Beauty and Fragrances Business Class amenity kits, completing the stylish new range of bags for the airline’s premium passengers. Complementing the recently launched Giorgio Armani Beauty and Fragrances
First Class amenity kits, the Business Class bags share similar style inspirations, and are designed in Giorgio Armani’s timeless black and gold accents, reflecting the latest Giorgio Armani collection. Ladies travelling with Qatar Airways will receive a stylish Giorgio Armani Beauty and Fragrances amenity kit, that doubles as a make-up or jewellery bag post-
flight, while gentlemen receive a smart travel bag made with a ribbed fabric that reflects the latest trends in male style and luxury. In addition to signature products, both amenity kits include a comfort bag consisting of lip balm from Rituals, socks, eyeshades and ear plugs, while the ladies kit also includes a hair brush.
First Class amenity kits by Giorgio Armani for ladies
HIA welcomes premium fleet of Audi cars for passenger transfers Hamad International Airport (HIA) has welcomed a brand-new fleet of Audi luxury cars that will be consigned to shuttle VIPs. The premium fleet includes the Audi Q7, RS 6 Avant and A8 L. This exciting partnership with HIA underlines Audi Qatar’s commitment to provide world-class automotive comfort to its clients. The stunning fleet has been specially flown in from Ingolstadt – the heart of Audi manufacturing in Germany. Renowned for their precise engineering and sophistication, each model will perfectly complement the airport’s cutting-edge facility and further enhance the travel experience of its premium travellers.
10 november/december 2016
First Class amenity kits by Giorgio Armani for gentlemen
Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority launch new transit visa option Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) have announced that a new transit visa scheme, which allows passengers with layovers of five hours or more in Hamad International Airport to request a complimentary transit visa, will go into effect as of November 1st, 2016. The new system will allow transiting passengers of all nationalities to enter Qatar for up to 96 hours in between flights. All visas are granted at the sole discretion of the Qatari Ministry of Interior. The initiative to introduce a free transit visa is the result of a collaboration between Qatar Airways and QTA to position the country as a tourist-friendly destination and to attract more international visitors. Passengers can apply for their free transit visa through any of Qatar Airways’ offices, or online. To be eligible for the transit visa, passengers must have a confirmed ticket for a journey into Qatar, with a confirmed onward journey out of Qatar on a Qatar Airwaysoperated flight.
DUKES Dubai prepares to deliver ‘Great’ British service
The first international property for the DUKES Collection, whose flagship hotel, DUKES London, is a popular destination for GCC travellers, will add a quintessentially British flavour to Dubai’s current premium
the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah, once fully operational, will employ over 400 staff, from around the world who will need to be fully immersed in all things British.“Our intensive training programme will focus on the essence of great British service. With new staff arriving from countries near and far, it is important that we explain the concept of great British service, establish DUKES’ standards and stress the value of consistency, both in theory and practice,” added Debrah Dhugga, Managing Director, Dukes Dubai Team DUKES Collection. DUKES Dubai will also add a flavour of India to its restaurant repertoire hospitality offering, when it opens later this with the launch of the first international year. outpost for Mumbai-based family restauOwned and operated by leading UAErant group, Khyber, which will specialise in based luxury hospitality developer, Seven traditional Northern Indian cuisine. Tides, DUKES Dubai, which is situated on
Armani Hotel Dubai ranks in Condé Nast Traveller’s ‘The World’s Top 100’ Results are out for the UK Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Travel Awards for 2016, and Armani Hotel Dubai has made the cut, being the only hotel in the UAE to be recognised on ‘The World’s Top 100’ list. Armani Hotel Dubai – the ultimate lifestyle destination located in Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building by Emaar Properties PJSC – placed in ‘The World’s Top 100’ list, also ranking in the ‘Overseas Business Hotels’ category, as voted by Condé Nast Traveller UK readers. The announcement follows news of two Armani Hotel Dubai restaurants being honoured as part of the TripAdvisor 2016 Travellers’ Choice Awards; with Armani/Amal taking the centre podium for ‘Best Fine Dining Restaurant – United Arab Emirates’ category, and Armani/Ristorante placing sixth. Armani/Amal was also recognised in second place for the ‘Best Fine Dining Restaurant – Middle East’ category.
november/december 2016 11
Grand Millennium Al Wahda Abu Dhabi appoints new GM Grand Millennium Al Wahda has announced the appointment of Clive Smith as its new General Manager. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Smith will drive the hotel toward its business vision, overseeing all aspects of the property in accordance with company mission statement. His role will include maximisation of financial performance, cultivation of guest experience, and development of the hotel team to ensure the highest quality standards
are achieved. Smith joins Grand Millennium from ABSHERON Hotel Group in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he held the role of Multi-Unit General Manager for Boulevard Hotel Baku for more than two years. Prior to working with ABSHERON Hotel Group, he held several senior executive positions for InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) in different parts of the world such as the Gulf Region, United Kingdom and Zambia.
Chopard’s sparkling indulgence
Clive Smith, General Manager, Grand Millennium
The fish connoisseur is back
Nothing sparkles with such eternal beauty as a diamond. Sparkling Indulgence was inspired by the unique symbolism of glittering diamonds, as well as Chopard’s radiant world of ‘haute joaillerie’. The result: a luxurious hotel cosmetics range with a timelessly elegant fragrance composition, with the finest textures and a stylish design that uniquely reflects the magic of the brand. The new cosmetics line was developed and produced, and is distributed by ADA l Pacific Direct (ADA), one of the leading manufacturers of hotel cosmetics. ADA has developed a singular guest collection, which meets even the most discerning demands of exclusive hotels and resorts. Sparkling Indulgence appeals especially to guests who love pampering themselves with choice body care ingredients.
Following the extremely successful September launch of his first international venture, Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab, renowned chef and seafood connoisseur Nathan Outlaw will back in Dubai, cooking up a culinary storm in the kitchen from November 7th to 12th, 2016. Serving up mouth-watering dishes and an impeccable relaxed service, Nathan’s return to the restaurant comes just a month after the opening of Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara. The restaurant launch was met with rave reviews and critically acclaimed praise for the entire dining experience. Tables were fully booked every day during Nathan’s last time in the kitchen, with the food being described as “the best in Dubai”. You can book your experience via Burj Al Arab Restaurants Reservations.
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Sharjah’s five hidden gems The UAE is made up of seven emirates; each with its own personality and charm. One such example is the city of Sharjah, which has something for everyone, catering to people with different interests, such as music, art, science, and nature. Go out and explore HE Sara Al Madani’s top five gems: • Mleiha Archaeological Centre (Mleiha desert) - Launched just a few months ago, the Archaeological Centre is a place where both adults and kids can go and learn the history of the region. Activities at the centre include paragliding and paramotoring, star gazing, overnight camping, and much more. For coffee lovers, there’s a Bistro café overlooking the spectacular Fossil Rock. • Sharjah Art Foundation - Located in Sharjah’s historical Art and Heritage Area. Visitors can enjoy film screenings, performances, music as well as extensive art education programmes for every age. • Noor Island - Located near Buhaira Corniche, Noor Island promises to be the first island in the region to fuse nature,
entertainment, and art, all under one roof. It has numerous attractions, such as the Butterfly House, with around 500 exotic butterflies from the East Asian region, as well as a café for you to unwind and a literature pavilion for book lovers. The perfect place to relax with friends on a weekend! • Muwailih Road - Located near University City, and home to some of the most amazing F&B start-ups, it’s a food lover’s paradise. Start-ups such as Paperfig, Zawaya Cafe, Mochi Ice Cream, Monkey Cookies, Felix and Norton, are all lined up on this street. Tasty and economical – this is a must-visit. • Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences - The centre is located in Muwailih Commercial, near Sharjah University City. It has numerous attractions such as a Planetarium, Astronomy Exhibition, Space Exhibition, Exhibition of the Universe in the Holy Qur’an, Astronomical Observatory, and a Cosmic Park. This is the perfect place for a sci-fi fanatics, and a great family
HE Sara Al Madani
Divan Patisserie opens in Dubai Mall Qatar-based Abuissa Holding expanded its operations in Dubai with the opening of its first restaurant in the Emirate, Divan Patisserie at Dubai Mall. The company manages diversified business interests in segments ranging from arts and photography to high-end retail, distribution and F&B. Divan Patisserie is a well-known Turkish brand, started in 1956 with one shop in the Divan Istanbul Hotel, and now having grown to more than 200 restaurants throughout Turkey and greater Europe. The new restaurant at Dubai Mall is only the second Divan Patisserie in the Middle East, following an opening in Doha, Qatar in 2015. (From Left to Right) : Fawaz Idrissi – CEO Abu Issa Holding, Nabil Abu Issa – Vice Chairman Abu Issa Holding, Muhammad Abu Issa – MD Grand Stores, Richard Applebaum – CEO Divan Group, Fuad Hasan Abul, Ahamed Koya november/december 2016 13
GROHE shower toilet wins Iconic Awards 2016 The innovative GROHE Sensia Arena shower toilet won the highest prize in the Iconic Awards 2016 – Best of Best and the team from the GROHE Design Studio collected a total of four coveted prizes at the prize ceremony held in Munich last month. Other GROHE products named ‘Winners’ in the design contest include the water-proof Aquatunes Bluetooth speaker, which increases the showering pleasure with its top-notch design and great sound. Thanks to its expressive shape, the new Eurostyle faucets collection is another winner, as is the GROHE Rainshower SmartControl shower system, whose innovative push button technology offers the user unparalleled showering comfort.
© Isabel Humpert & Moritz Wagner – themediadepartment.de
Hyatt to introduce new global loyalty programme Hyatt Hotels Corporation unveiled World of Hyatt, Hyatt’s new global loyalty programme, which will launch on March 1st, 2017. World of Hyatt is about building community and engaging with high-end travellers. A bold, modern and confident platform, the program’s three elite tiers – Discoverist, Explorist and Globalist – reflect the aspirations of the World of Hyatt community as they travel and expand their world. Said Mark Hoplamazian, president and chief executive officer, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, “World of Hyatt is about celebrating our members by understanding the people, places and experiences at the heart of their world. The more we understand them, the better we can care for them and design unique experiences with them in mind.”
© Isabel Humpert & Moritz Wagner – themediadepartment.de
New head chef and menu at Manhattan Grill Grand Hyatt Dubai welcomes a new Head Chef to its popular steakhouse, Manhattan Grill. Chef Liz Nuñez has introduced a new menu that retains the classic New York experience in Dubai, as well as enriching the palate with robust flavours. Signature steaks remain the focal point ,while the Manhattan meat platter has been enhanced. As providers of abundant experiences, the platter showcases every succulent meat cut on the menu, including the Ranger Valley Wagyu tenderloin. Accompanied by two sauces and two side dishes, it is perfect for sharing. The menu is a must-try for those who love true hearty food in fine settings.
Chef Liz
Manhattan Grill Meat Platter
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Battle of the Baristas The Middle East and North Africa’s most talented baristas are readying for a battle of the brewers at the Speciality Food Festival 2016, which runs from November 7th to 9th, at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Instead of creating their own bespoke cappuccinos or macchiatos, the region’s top traditional coffeemakers will prepare Cezve or Ibrik, commonly referred to as ‘Turkish coffee,’ in the MENA Cezve/Ibrik Championship, which is organised by the Speciality Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE). More than 10 of the region’s leading baristas will utilise the centuries-old art of brewing coffee in a small, long-handled pot to create the best serving of Ibrik, the preferred coffee-making method in many parts of the world, including Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
An independent panel of judges led by Konstantinos Komninakis, the 9th Cezve Ibrik World champion, will assess competing baristas’ brews based on criteria, including taste, beverage presentation and technique. The winner of the MENA Cezve/Ibrik Championship will bag a place at the World Championship 2017 in Budapest, Hungary.
Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai announces new F&B Director With over 21 years of experience in different countries, Eman Abela started his career in the hospitality industry at D’Amici Russian Restaurant in his home country of Malta as Food & Beverage Supervisor in 1995. Most recently, he served as Executive Assistant Manager at Simaisma A Murwab Resort in Qatar. In his new task, Eman will be responsible for the Food & Beverage Department at Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai, leading a team of over 60 employees at Fountain, the international restaurant, Chutney’s, the north Indian restaurant, and Somerset’s, the sports bar, along with those in room service, banquets, weddings and social events. Eman will oversee the operation and be responsible of establishing new and creative F&B concepts and promotions in the outlets.
Resnet World partners with Monopoly Hotels and Resorts ResNet World has entered into a partnership with Monopoly Hotels and Resorts, the newly-founded hospitality membership alliance and support services provider, to offer world-class global reservations connectivity to independent hotels and national hotel groups. Targeting hotels, resorts, residences and inns, the collaborative partnership will help establish Monopoly Hotels and Resorts as the industry’s best alternate option to a traditional hotel franchise system – enabling hotels to maintain their own identity and operating independence, while benefitting from the peace of mind that comes with the support provided by Monopoly Hotels & Resorts. All hotels joining the Monopoly Hotels and Resorts Alliance Programme will now have access to world-class Central Reservations System (CRS) connectivity.
Eman Abela
november/december 2016 15
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar resort invites travellers to experience new heights of luxury Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas opens the doors to the highest five-star resort in the Middle East with the launch of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort. Perched 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon, the imaginative luxury resort beckons the intrepid traveller for immersions in a rich local culture and indulgent adventures into the otherworldly mountainscape of northern Oman. Long inaccessible, Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Arabic for ‘The Green Mountain’, is a towering massif on the Sultanate of Oman’s vast Saiq Plateau. The arrival experience takes guests on an adventurous drive, past date plantations, historic forts, and dry riverbeds. The resort echoes the fortified architecture of the region, ensconcing guests in modern ramparts inspired by the commanding mountain citadels and re-imagined with sophisticated contemporary interiors.
The Coffee Club launches Chef’s Table Australian café chain, The Coffee Club, has launched a Chef’s Table menu with an Arabian twist.“In fine dining restaurants, the chef’s table is in the kitchen and brings the diner closer to the action for a more intimate experience,”said Michael Chick. “By launching the Chef’s Table, we hope our patrons feel closer to the vision and cooking style of our Global Culinary Director James Bradbury. Each dish is an expression of James and is a culmination of his experiences in kitchens around the world including the UAE.” On the Chef’s Table menu is the Labneh Poached Eggs, Tabbouleh Grilled Chicken with Pine Nuts and Sultanas, Giant Couscous Salad with Flaked Salmon and Red Apple, Beef Kofta, and much more. The Chef’s Table dishes will be served at The Coffee Club’s outlets across the UAE.
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Investment into restaurant technology market must increase Diners are opting for home delivery services and are increasingly using coupons and promotions, according to a new global survey of over 4,600 consumers, conducted by AlixPartners. As a result, investment into the restaurant technology market must increase to meet this growing demand, according to the business advisory firm. Dr Tobais Plate, AlixPartners, said,“As home delivery services and eating-in grows in popularity, less is being spent on convenience and fast food meals. This has significant implications on restaurant operators and the way in which they manage their supply chain. Restaurant chains will need to keep up with the evolving technological needs of diners to ensure they stay ahead of more innovative competitors.”
RAK’s hosting of the maiden European Challenge Tour a huge success Jordan Smith may have written his name into UAE golf folklore by claiming victory in the inaugural Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge, but tournament officials insisted the real winner was the emirate’s successful staging of its maiden European Challenge Tour event. With a crop of leading European Challenge Tour players jostling for supremacy during a dramatic final day’s play at Al Hamra Golf Club, much of the talk around Al Hamra Golf Club focused on the tournament’s host city. Organised by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the emirate’s staging of the tournament has been roundly praised by players, fans and European Challenge Tour officials, which is good news for Haitham Mattar, CEO of RAKTDA. With RAKTDA holding the right to stage the penultimate European Challenge Tour event for another two years, Robert Fiala, Marketing Manager of the Emirates Golf Federation, is optimistic the tournament is here to stay.
Trophy hunter Jordan Smith accepts his prize from Haitham Mattar (l) and Challenge Tour director Alain De Soultrait
Great F & B linen
Show rooms in UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Windhoek please contact: malika@kaechele.com or by phone +971 (0) 50 1543535 Kaechele Hotel Linen Laichingen Germany info@kaechele.com www.kaechele.com november/december 2016 17
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts wins record number of World Travel Awards InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has claimed an astounding 36 award wins at the recent World Travel Awards Asia and Australasia Gala Ceremony 2016. The ceremony was held at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, which, itself, was awarded this year’s Best Luxury Resort in Asia. The awards included Asia’s Leading Luxury Business Hotel Brand for the third consecutive year, Asia’s Leading Business Hotel Brand and Asia’s Leading Hotel Brand for the fifth year in a row, as well as Australasia’s Leading Hotel Brand. Club InterContinental Lounge at the InterContinental ANA Tokyo, Japan
InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort
InterContinental Resort in Bali, Indonesia
Musafir.com opens 12th UAE store at DIFC Musafir.com has announced the inauguration of a new flagship branch at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The new Musafir.com store was inaugurated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Thani, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development and Co-founder of Musafir.com, in the
18 november/december 2016
presence of Sachin Gadoya, Managing Director and Co-founder of Musafir.com, and Saleh Al Akrabi, CEO of DIFC. The inauguration marks the 12th store opening for Musafir.com in the UAE – one of six new store openings lined up before the end of 2016 –and represents a key milestone in the travel provider’s ambitious regional expansion strategy. With a specific focus on the corporate travel segment, the new branch located in the heart of Dubai’s financial district is expected to increase Musafir.com’s corporate travel bookings by 35 per cent over a period of next six months.
HMH launches ‘Staycation 4 Family’ promotion Targeting the growing number of holidaymakers opting for a local vacation, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings rolled out a fabulous ‘Staycation 4 Family’ promotion at its stunning properties across the region. The offer entitles four adults and more to stay in a serviced apartment, suite, or family room with complimentary breakfast for all. The offer, which is valid all week - children till the age of 12 years stay for free – is on till the December 30th, 2016. Guests can book their stay on http://www.hmhhotelgroup.com. Coral Beach Resort Sharjah - Pool
New Director of Sales and Marketing at Warwick Dubai Marwa Mustafa has been promoted from Director of Sales to Director of Sales and Marketing at Warwick Dubai. With over 15 years’ experience working in sales roles for numerous international brands across the Middle East, Marwa’s extensive hospitality experience will enhance her role at Warwick Dubai. Moving to Warwick Hotels & Resorts in 2015, she led the corporate team successfully to increase the segment by 31 per cent. Her leadership skills and the positive results driven by smart sales strategies led to her promotion.
Dubai’s holiday home sector sees strong growth Dubai’s holiday home sector is going from strength to strength, with the latest figures released by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) revealing a total of 1,805 approved units to date, benefitting both homeowners and visitors to Dubai. This growth is being driven by effective government regulations, designed to increase competitiveness, transparency, safety and standardisation, and comes on the back of Dubai Tourism’s decision earlier this year to allow private homeowners to apply for a holiday home permit and start leasing their properties directly. In the short time since the introduction of updated regulations in May, a total of 109 homeowners submitted applications for a holiday home permit, of which 39 have now been approved, enabling them to enter the market. These join the 78 approved holiday home operators already doing business in Dubai, moving forward, Dubai Tourism anticipates further growth across the sector. Homeowners wishing to rent their units as holiday homes should register on the Holiday Homes website, https://hh.dtcm.gov.ae.
Elodie Lacroix appointed Director of Business Development at Rome Cavalieri Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, announced the appointment of Elodie Lacroix as Director of Business Development. Recently awarded as both Italy and Europe’s Leading Luxury City Resort for the second year at the World Travel Awards, the appointment comes at an exciting time of growth for Rome Cavalieri. With a solid, international background in sales, marketing and business development, Elodie Lacroix specialises in category management, key account management, strategy, and communication. A graduate of ESC Rouen, France, she boasts 11 years of experience in the industry, overseeing the sales and marketing for such key brands as Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in London for the France and Benelux markets, and Sofitel Luxury Hotels and Resorts in both London and Luxembourg, most recently serving as the Director of Sales and Marketing at La Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris.
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Preferred Hotels and Resorts recently held their annual Global Conference for their more than 650 international properties that are a part of their brand at the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai. In an intimate media lunch before the start of their conference, ThME’s Managing Editor, Munawar Shariff, spoke to the company’s very young, charming and approachable CEO and President, Lindsey Ueberroth about the business as well as her leadership style and what she has learnt leading a successfully growing and relevant hospitality company for the last few years. Here’s an excerpt from a very crisp and informative 30-minute chat Palazzo Versace Dubai 20 november/december 2016
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hen Preferred Hotels and Resorts held their annual conference in Dubai this year at one of their premier properties - The Palazzo Versace Hotel (a Preferred Legend hotel) - there were two remarkable things that stood out for Lindsey Ueberroth, President and CEO of Preferred Hotels and Resorts,“I would measure the success of the conference on the fact that first, we had a lot of hotel owners who attended as well a great number of GMs who also participated. The coming together of the owners and GMs shows the depth of engagement with the brand, which is very exciting for us.” Even in terms of speakers, the conference saw some veterans, like a couple of hoteliers who are regulars, and one gentleman who has never missed one of 35 conferences.“About 80 per cent of the attendees had never been to Dubai before, and they were so impressed by the destination, that they really want to come back again. They say it’s the best conference they’ve attended, and Dubai has something to do with it, so in my book it was one of the best and most successful conferences,” she says. november/december 2016 21
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Palazzo Versace Dubai Guestroom Palazzo Versace Dubai, Vanitas Restaurant
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They say it’s the best conference they’ve attended, and Dubai has something to do with it, so in my book it was one of the best and most successful conferences When it comes to choosing the destination, Ueberroth says they always rotate locations. This is the first time they have held a conference in the Middle East, and Dubai, having put itself on the global map in the last few years, was an obvious choice.“Besides, this also gave us the opportunity to showcase this wonderful hotel from our Legends collection (The Palazzo Versace) as well as our hotels in the Dubai market,” she adds. Preferred Hotels and Resorts brings a unique proposition to the market. Their strategy seems to be working 22 november/december 2016
well for them, as they continue to experience success the world over. Ueberroth credits that to a few things, “We have positioned the whole brand quite differently to the consumer. We’ve added value by launching the point space loyalty programme in our family of independent hotels, where it’s not just about points, but actual cash value that can be used towards multiple things. That’s been a big game changer for us. We continue to launch new programmes and initiatives, catering to the needs of the market, like with Preferred Family or
Preferred Golf, and now even Preferred Residences,” she explains Preferred Hotels and Resorts have also forged brand level partnerships on a corporate level, which would otherwise be inaccessible to hotel owners. From travel management companies, to names like American Express, to portals like Trivago, they bring the benefits of these brand level partnerships to their hotels.“Another important element is our quality assurance programme. Obviously, this sets the standard of what to expect for the hotel and for the customer. But we
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The Temple House, Chengdu, China
Temple House Jing Bar
Temple House Pool
have taken this a step further. Instead of having just an inspection, we have rolled out an online programme that takes the top 20 review sites, and aggregates what’s happening there against our quality assurance. We also give hotels a tool where they can respond in real time to these review sites, and, like us, constantly look at adding value and generating more revenue,” adds Ueberroth. When it comes to the Middle East, there is no doubt that this is a big market for Preferred Hotels as a brand. However, admittedly, they have not been able to capture a big market share, which they put down to lack of a proper team.“We have 22 hotels out of 650, which would be about three per cent of our total portfolio being the Middle East. But, we look at the Middle East in totality, which is a fast-growing market. I would love to say that we are soon going from three to seven per cent. And we’ve invested 24 november/december 2016
Temple House Suite
in a team to make things happen faster,” says Ueberroth, adding, “It’s actually quite interesting, because if you look at the trajectory of growth in the last few months, there’s a strong growth in independant hotels keen to be a part of our brand, and since we are in the final negotiation stages with some of them, this figure is going to increase in a big way.” Ten years ago, this was not the case. A lot of markets that were previously closed to independent hotels are now opening up. Preferred Hotels has a new hotel in Malaysia, for example. Ueberroth feels that it is the presence of groups like theirs that has shown hotel owners that running an independent hotel is a viable option, whether the market is mature or not. The internet has made hotel operations very transparent, and information is freely available to travellers.
Ueberroth feels that is it the presence of groups like theirs that has shown hotel owners that running an independent hotel is a viable option
They now have more confidence in independent hotels, which hotel chains have come to realise.“So they are now offering unique, one-of-akind experiences, which independent hotels have been doing for years already. True travellers are looking for authentic, indigenous places which offer a real experience in the vicinity, which hotel chains cannot do,” she explains. When it comes to Dubai though, Ueberroth is unsure about what authentic entails.“From an architectural standpoint, the world looks at Dubai as being a place that has the best of everything the biggest, tallest in other words an architectural wonder. That’s become the perception of the city and an authentic experience. Although there is a lot more culture and history to the place, that is the impression people have of what is authentic in Dubai. And that is definitely a good thing.”
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Social media and public relations also play a huge part. Basically, it’s really just helping tell our story, and the more dots we have on the map, the easier it gets
Coco Bodu Hithi Villa
Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives
For Preferred Hotels, at the moment, South East Asia has major opportunities or growth, especially China. “There’s still a lot of opportunity even in Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand, and parts of South America also have potential,”she says. This is easier said than done, as they need to have the resources to cater to the needs of the market in order to make it grow. Like in China, for example, where they have added a few people to the team, opening new offices, servicing cities and hotels and resorts.“This is generally how we go about growing our brand. Social media and public relations also play a huge part. Basically, it’s really just helping tell our story, so that more hotel owners and management groups come together, and the more dots we have on the map, the easier it gets,”explains Ueberroth. Of course, there is also the competition.“Our competitors have changed over time, from Leading Hotels of the World, we are now competing with Autograph, Starwood luxury collection, etc. The basic difference is that those brands go from ultra luxury to upper upscale, whereas we go on niche concepts, so we have a lot more opportunity for growth. We can service a lot
and the existing management company, if any, make a joint decision. Although Preferred Hotels works with independent hotels, they have been approached by the Four Seasons in the past.“This sort of defies what we do. We’re not really in the space of working with big chains,”she states.
Leadership style Lindsey Ueberroth, President and CEO of Preferred Hotels and Resorts
more hotel partners, and give travellers more variety. Travellers have different needs when they are travelling with family, as opposed to when they are on business, or when they want a romantic getaway. So we have the great opportunity to cater to the traveller’s needs, which is what sets us apart from the competition,”explains Ueberroth. The first point of contact for Preferred Hotels is generally the General Manager, although they do sometimes meet directly with the hotel owner. Ueberroth feels that it is a three-way decision, where the hotel owner, GM,
Ueberroth is a people-centric person.“I love the global nature of our company, as I get to work with people all over the world. I find that not only stimulating and interesting, but also very rewarding. I also love how the industry changes. There is not a single day when I am not being challenged, and I have to constantly look ahead of the curve, which is incredible. It can also be very tiring, but then, travel is my passion, so to me, this role is like living my dream. There are nuances to the job, getting to work with hotels, trying to figure out how to get travellers like myself there, and be inspired. My personal and professional lives are quite intertwined because I love what I do,”she smiles. november/december 2016 25
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In her line of work, Ueberroth has learned how to be more patient, especially as she deals with people from diverse cultures.“You have to learn how to communicate differently, and with a lot of humility,” she says, adding,“I think I have evolved when it comes to working with different cultures, understanding their ways. Like, for example, in Italy, you can do about a maximum of two meetings a day while drinking a lot of espressos, whereas in Japan, they are very formal and efficient, so you can do 12 meetings in the day and get a lot done very quickly. I’ve learnt how to adjust a lot of things with understanding and humility, because what works for one may not work for another. But that’s also the fun part, to really understand what makes different cultures and dif-
ferent countries work.” Ueberroth is fortunate enough to have people in her offices who brief her on the unique customs of a place before she visits. She admits she has often found herself in embarrassing situations, but it’s all part of the job. “I try to find the time to read the local newspaper, and it’s interesting to see how different cultures operate. I also find it acceptable and even welcome when I ask questions about them. Most people are happy to talk about themselves and share all the details about what makes their culture different, and it’s a great conversation starter as well,” she smiles. When it comes to leading her team, Ueberroth believes in an autonomous working style.“I believe in independence and accountability. When we
hire people in leadership positions, we have to trust them to do their job. My leadership style has also evolved over time. At first, I thought I had to have all the answers and had to be in control of everything. But that’s not realistic. Over time, I’ve realised that I tend to lead from the back, I listen to everyone and everything and then take a stand. Obviously this also changes from situation to situation as when there is something to be sorted I just am very on point about how I want it to be handled. I’ve learnt to trust my team, and I like it when they challenge me. I can have a good idea, for example, but then someone might look at it a bit differently. Our leadership meetings are full of banter, and I want people to feel like they can say anything openly,” she states.
Monument Hotel, Barcelona
If you’re not willing to sometimes roll up your sleeves and get into the weeds a little bit, then you can’t inspire others
Monument Hotel, room
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Monument Hotel, Suite
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We have 22 hotels out of 650, which would be about three per cent of our total portfolio being the Middle East. But, we look at the Middle East in totality, which is a fast-growing market
Katamama hotel, Bali, Exterior
Simaisma, a Murwab Resort, Qatar
Simaisma, a Murwab Resort, Suite
Katamama hotel, Bali,Suite
Ueberroth has put a lot of systems in place to facilitate an open and comfortable environment for her employees. They have a quarterly update, where they learn what progress the company is making, and how, and an idea of the goals that have been set.“We also have an anonymous intranet where anyone can send across any questions they might want addressed by the management. They also produce and distribute a monthly newsletter for feedback, and she is amazed at the response she receives. “I think we try to create a very open and safe environment for people to know what’s going on, and where the company is headed. At the end of the day, everyone wants to feel like they are making a contribution, and that they are valued. As a company, there would be nothing worse than making people feel that what they do does not matter. We have an informal set up where, on a regular basis, we recognise people for going above and beyond. We’re a family busi-
november/december 2016 27
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The Leela Palace New Delhi, India
Leela Palace Lobby
The Leela Palace New Delhi
ness, so this is just another way of spending time with people, getting to know them on a personal level versus professional, and I think that’s what makes the difference,” she details. Ueberroth believes that good leaders listen more than they talk.“One has to lead by example. If you’re not willing to sometimes roll up your sleeves and get into the weeds a little bit, then you can’t inspire others. For me personally, having mentors has made a huge difference as it has kept me on track towards my goals. Really loving what you do is another very important thing, as that’s where the real passion comes from. A good manager can manage the energy of people around him, and his own. Work-life balance is very important here, as you really cannot be of much help to your job or to your team if you are burned out,” she states. 28 november/december 2016
Leela Palace Suite
For Ueberroth, unwinding from her work is tricky. And she says that she even travels to unwind! Obviously this travelling is completely unlike the travel she does for work. “These kinds of trips are usually some very off-thetrack, exotic locations and in summer I have a 60-day no travel period, so I take a lot of staycations, stay at different properties where I can really enjoy the hotel as a visitor as well as get to check out the competition.” “During this time, I also ensure to spend plenty of time just playing, like really playing as we used to when we were kids with my
I love the global nature of our company, as I get to work with people all over the world. I find that not only stimulating and interesting, but also very rewarding. I also love how the industry changes
nephews and nieces. I have three all of whom are under eight. So playing with them totally disconnects you from anything related to work. I’m also really good at just hanging out on the beach all day with a bunch of magazines and doing absolutely nothing or even watching back-to-back episodes of a favourite television show.” Talking about some of her favourite trips, Ueberroth says,“Three places most memorable and valued to me have been when I went to South India, South Africa and Bhutan. Those were extremely beautiful experiences. One place where I would love to go is the Antartica just for having bragging rights of saying that I’ve been there. There are a bunch of places that I want to visit which aren’t exactly the safest places to travel to at the moment. And the list just gets bigger and bigger!”
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The Watergate Hotel, DC USA, Lobby
The Watergate Hotel, DC USA, Presidential Suite
Preferred Hotels and Resorts’ hotels in the MENA region Oman
Al Nahda Resort & Spa Dunes by Nahda
UAE
The Franklin hotel, London, restaurant
Palazzo Versace Dubai Nassima Royal Hotel Grand Excelsior Al Barsha Grand Excelsior Sharjah Grand Excelsior Bur Dubai DUKES Dubai Paramount Dubai Royal Rose, Abu Dhabi Dusit Thani, Abu Dhabi Dusit Residence Dubai Marina Dusit Thani Dubai dusitD2 Kenz Hotel
Kuwait
The Regency
Bahrain
The Domain Hotel & Spa
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Vivienda Granada Vivienda Residence
Qatar
The Avenue, a Murwab Hotel SIMAISMA, a Murwab Hotel Saraya Corniche, a Murwab Hotel Sealine Beach Resort, a Murwab Hotel The Franklin hotel, London, Junior suite november/december 2016 29
Restaurant business
An established
mid market niche
30 november/december 2016
Restaurant business
Daniel Del Olmo, CEO, DineEquity Inc, speaks to ThME about their growth plans in the region, and why the Middle East is so special. Dine Equity handles Applebee’s and the IHOP chain of restaurants
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ineEquity Inc has had a presence in the Middle East since 1999, when they opened their first Applebee’s location in Kuwait. Dubai got its first IHOP in 2006, and they now have 14 IHOP restaurants in the region, including one that opened outside Dubai just a few weeks ago.“We also have 47 Applebee’s locations, including one that just opened in the Festival City Mall in Dubai, and another scheduled to open in the next few months in Jeddah. We continue to expand the brands throughout the region, and in fact, the Middle East has been identified as one of three growth areas for our brands (Latin America and Asia Pacific are the others). We have great franchise partners for both brands who continue to grow our brands,”smiles DineEquity Inc CEO Daniel Del Olmo. DineEquity Inc currently has franchise partners in the region, who are as passionate about their brands as themselves, and they are continuously receiving interest from prospective franchise partners. Their strategy is to not just hold on to the core heritage and equities that have made both brands november/december 2016 31
Restaurant business
We continue to expand the brands throughout the region, and in fact, the Middle East has been identified as one of three growth areas for our brands
successful for decades, but also honour and celebrate local consumer tastes and trends to ensure the brands are relevant to every region.“In the Middle East, that means menu adjustments that cater to dietary restrictions, for one. Like you will find lamb ribs on some Applebee’s menus, and beef bacon for IHOP. We also have a little more emphasis on savoury rather than sweet dishes. This is a response to the largest consumer research study in our company’s international history, that was conducted back in 2014, to see how we can best please our guests in each market, including the Middle East,” explains Del Olmo. DineEquity Inc currently operates Applebee’s in Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, KSA, and the UAE; and IHOP locations include Bahrain, Qatar, KSA,
and the UAE. They are continuously adding new locations in these countries, and planning new countries for each brand as well. In terms of staff, Del Olmo clarifies that, since the restaurants are franchised, the team members are not direct employees.“However, we work with our franchise partners by providing trainers for the team members. And, at both our brands, the guest experience is the most important aspect of our operations - we want to provide the great food and warm hospitality that has built our global reputation at every location,”he adds. When creating the restaurant, each brand has its own, detailed guidelines and brand manuals to ensure consistency and quality. For some elements,
These changes come as DineEquity Inc plans for greater expansion of both brands into the Middle East, which includes recent commitments from multiple existing franchisees
32 november/december 2016
however, it is possible, and makes economic sense, to source locally, both in terms of equipment, décor and our produce and food products. “One of our major learnings over the past few years is the realisation that we do not need to exactly replicate the same size Applebee’s or IHOP restaurant that we have traditionally had - that flexibility in terms of square footage and design is beneficial to both, our franchise partners, and our guests, allowing us to place restaurants in locations that might not otherwise be able to accommodate a single size floor plan - so you will find locations of many different sizes, whether freestanding restaurants, or restaurants in malls. We have been able to reduce the kitchen footprint through innovation in equipment and operations to allow greater space to be dedicated to the guest experience,”he concludes.
Restaurant business
At both our brands, the guest experience is the most important aspect of our operations—we want to provide the great food and warm hospitality that has built our global reputation at every location
Global expansion DineEquity Inc, one of the world’s largest full service restaurant companies, with two leading brands in their categories Applebee’s Grill and IHOP Restaurants is continuing its successful international expansion by announcing a brand evolution for both brands that will include every touch point of the guest experience. This evolution will be evident to guests as they see changes in everything, from new creative positioning and advertising campaigns, new restaurant and remodel designs, food innovation, service culture, uniform, plates, cups and service items even music programming. These changes will communicate both the unique heritage and the guest appeal of each brand. These changes come as DineEquity plans for greater expansion of both brands into the Middle East, which includes recent commitments from multiple existing franchisees to bring an additional 24 Applebee’s restaurants and 17 IHOP restaurants to the region over the next several years. Applebee’s Grill, falling in the casual dining category, has been serving guests
handcrafted burgers, steaks, ribs, sandwiches and salads, and appetizers since the first location opened its doors as ‘Applebee’s RX for Edibles and Elixirs’ 35 years ago in a suburb of Atlanta Georgia. Since then it has grown into a worldwide favourite of guests seeking the authentic experience of an American Grill. Drawing on this heritage, Applebee’s complete brand evolution is focused around a new brand positioning: ‘Applebee’s - There’s always a reason to celebrate’, recognising that there are many occasions to celebrate in life, and guests don’t need to wait for a formal occasion, such as a birthday or a promotion, to come to the restaurants for great food and a great time. IHOP restaurant draws on its more than half a century of expertise and worldwide reputation of offering guests the best in breakfast any time of day, as well as lunch and dinner offerings, with the new brand creative positioning: ‘IHOP - Spreading Happiness since 1958’. In addition to displaying the new
IHOP brand logo, unveiled worldwide last month, which features a prominent smile, IHOP restaurants will also feature new décor, uniforms, menu items, plate ware, and culinary innovations that offer a fresh, modern look inspired by IHOP’s origins in 1950’s Southern California. Both brands also will utilise innovative designs for new restaurants being built. The newest Applebee’s prototype design, ‘Celebration Time’ is expected to be rolled out in the region within the next six months. The newest IHOP restaurant prototype design, ‘California Heritage’, is currently under construction in Manila, and is scheduled to open this summer. DineEquity Inc has approximately 3,600 restaurants across both brands, including over 220 restaurants outside the United States, throughout the world, including Mexico, Canada, Guatemala, Chile, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Guam, the UAE, Kuwait, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the Philippines and Indonesia, with plans to focus further expansion of both brands throughout Latin America, the Middle East and Asia.
november/december 2016 33
destination report
nature
Connect with
The Logar Valley is one of the most beautiful Alpine glacial valleys in Europe 34 november/december 2016
destination report
Slovenia is quickly emerging as the preferred travel destination for the world, thanks to the concentrated efforts of the Slovenian Tourism Board and attractive travel packages. ThME examines what is making the difference
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n Slovenia, tourism represents an important economic activity with various multiplicative effects and high potential for development and growth. Recently released data shows that Slovenia’s economy gained traction in the second quarter and GDP expanded 2.7 per cent on an annual basis, thus improving over the previous quarter’s increase. The encouraging figure was driven by an improvement in domestic economic conditions, for private consumption in particular, which grew at the fastest rate in nearly two years in Q2. The latest high frequency data shows that the economy likely maintained the positive momentum in the third quarter. In July, growth in industrial production surged, and the unemployment rate dropped to a multi-year low level. A continuing improvement in the government’s fiscal position and recently introduced reforms that aim at addressing some of the country’s economic challenges. Contributing 12.8 per cent to the GDP, last year tourism represented 37.6 per cent of exports in services, and 7.5 per cent of total exports.“In comparison to the European and global average, the share of tourism in both the total exports, as well as cumulative effects on GDP in this sector are significantly higher in Slovenia, as is the share of people employed in it. Last year, a new record was set – for the first time since the declaration of independent Slovenia, the number of overnight stays exceeded 10 million, whereas the inflow from travel services exceeded Euro 2.2 billion,”informs Zdravko Pocivalšek, Minister of Economic Development and Technology, . Over the last 25 years, Slovenian tourism made some big development and promotional steps, and it has developed and grown at an above-average pace. This is indicated by the following facts: • Tourism contributes nearly 13 per cent of GDP. • It represents more than eight per cent of total export and nearly 40 per cent of exports in services. • As many as 59 million tourists stayed in Slovenia in the last 25 years, and generated 187 million overnight stays. • Inflows from travel services nearly tripled. • The number of tourist beds increased by nearly 70 per cent. november/december 2016 35
destination report
Zdravko Pocivalsek, Minister of Economic Development and Technology
Maja Pak, Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board
Slovenia, Ljubljana 36 november/december 2016
A continuing improvement in the government’s fiscal position and recently introduced reforms that aim at addressing some of the country’s economic challenges
• One in eight Slovenian employees works in the tourism sector, which is above the European and global average. • Slovenian tourism has an extremely multiplicative effect. According to estimates provided by the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia in 2014, the share of tourism value added amounted to 3.7 p er cent. • On the global competitiveness scale, Slovenia is ranked 39th. • Last year, the state was ranked 15th among the 162 states on the Global Pace Index, whereas in June 2016, it ranked 10th out of 163 states. “Recent data released by the Statistical Office of The Republic of Slovenia (SORS) showed an increase of the number of foreign tourists by 10 per cent from last year, with an eight per cent increase in foreign tourist overnight stays. From January to August, Slovenia has recorded a 71 per cent visit of foreign tourists, of which 66 per cent chose to stay overnight in the country,”Pocivalšek adds. “We are extremely pleased to
showcase a green, active and healthy Slovenia to the world. Recent results showing an increase in number of international arrivals are a testimonial to our recent initiatives and promotional efforts, including our first ever Ministerial Trade Development Mission and Tourism workshop that took place in Dubai this September. Being declared as World’s First Green Country, Slovenia continues to grow as an attractive destination for travellers and nature enthusiasts from around the world,”he continues. In light of growing tourist numbers from this region in particular, the Slovenian Tourism Board (STB) has recently appointed Aviareps as its representative in the region. The tourism board and Aviareps have since conducted various promotional efforts, including the workshop in Dubai. STB also participated in Aviareps’ tourism roadshows, while promoting ‘I Feel SLOVENIA’ campaign to the markets of UAE, Oman, and Qatar first, proceeding to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait the following month.
destination report
Dolenjske Toplice - Spa Hotel Balnea
States Maja Pak, Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board,“Outstanding arrivals during the summer season have confirmed that Slovenia is acquiring more and more recognition as a sustainability-oriented, green, active, healthy and safe boutique destination.” STB currently has a representative office in the UAE to help with the efforts to increase awareness and demand through various promotions and campaigns. “To increase the recognisability of Slovenia as a green, active, healthy, sustainability-oriented tourist destination, STB is promoting innovative products and stories of Slovenian tourism through market engagement programmes,” says Pak. STB has the I FEEL SLOVENIA holiday package, made exclusively for visitors from the Middle East. The
holiday package encapsulates the green, active, and healthy attractions of Slovenia, and includes a four night stay in Slovenia - including a two-nights stay in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city that has been recognised by the European Commission as the Green Capital of Europe 2016, a complimentary city tour of Ljubljana, a night stay at a Slovenian thermal springs spa with its health-giving waters, and a night at a family friendly tourist farm stay with farm activities. Airport and hotel transfers are also included.“Already, 28 travel agencies from around the GCC are selling the I FEEL SLOVENIA package to their customers and clients, including Sharaf Travels, TravelWings.com, Musafir.com,
Slovenian tourism has an extremely multiplicative effect. According to estimates provided by the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia in 2014, the share of tourism value added amounted to 3.7 per cent
Ornate Travels and with more to follow,”smiles Pak, hoping these efforts will increase the number of tourists by end of 2016. “We welcome our visitors from the GCC with arms wide open, and we expect a mutual respect and understanding from our visitors from the region. Slovenia is a place to reconnect with nature, detoxify, live clean, and experience the wonders of the world, and we are opening our city for our GCC friends to explore and see the real wonders of nature,”she adds. Slovenia is best known for its natural health resorts, thermal spas and wellness centres. Due to the therapeutic effects of the springs reaching the surface at 32-73 degrees Celcius, many november/december 2016 37
destination report
Slovenia’s inns offer accommodation, and good food, often in the best local style. Some pensions also offer excellent cuisine
Postojna cave train
Historic town Piran, photographer U. Trnkoczy 38 november/december 2016
thermal spas and resorts continue to provide medical rehabilitation and other treatments, while others provide thermal entertainment in the form of water parks and fun for the whole family. Slovenia is a country with green character. Forests cover 58.4 per cent of its area, making it the third most forested country in Europe, and 36 per cent of its area is within the Natura 2000 network. One fifth of its coast is protected, and it is one of the richest European countries with regards to the amount of river water per capita. Another unique attraction is the ecological tourist farms, which offer a healthy living environment and certified organic food. There are more than 400 tourist farms for visitors to stay, and enjoy a reconnection to the land, peace and relaxation, an opportunity to meet warm-hearted people and learn
about their customs and livestock. In addition to Slovenia’s many picturesque medieval towns and cities are its numerous natural attractions that extend across the country’s unique topography, that include the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst. These diverse landscapes provide seasonal beauty all year round, and continuously surprise with lush forest, tumbling waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and healthy crystal-clear waters. Slovenia is conveniently accessed through its capital’s Ljubljana Airport, or can be reached by road from Zagreb, Croatia within two hours, from Venice and Vienna within three and a half hours, from Munich within four and a half hours, or from Milan within five hours. Pak details how the country is preparing to receive visitors,“In the
destination report
past year, all activities related to the development and marketing of Slovenian tourism, in accordance with the ambitious work programme established by the STB, were carried out in close cooperation with the economic sector. The STB made great strides in the field of digital content marketing, which contributes to the coordinated and clear communication of Slovenia as a tourist destination as a whole. Among foreign target groups, Slovenia is becoming increasingly more recognisable as a boutique, safe, green, active, and healthy destination, offering tourist products with high added value for excellent experiences, and this also reflects in the increased number of foreign tourists visiting Slovenia.” “If you are in need of pampering, choose a hotel, but if you value human contact with welcoming locals, the right choice is an inn, a pension, or
Lake Bled
private rooms. Leave the city behind, and relax on tourist farms. Campsites provide direct contact with natural greenery, while there is special accommodation for hikers and bikers in the valleys and the mountains. There are many other places to stay on our list, the most gathered in a single place in Slovenia. Even the hotels of Slovenia’s natural spas are best accommodation of Slovenia’s 15 natural spas in one place,” enthuses Pak. Hotels are the top of the range for accommodation services in Slovenia, and are available for as little as Euro 30 (AED 121) a night. The majority of hotels in the country are three-star, but
The holiday package encapsulates the green, active, and healthy attractions of Slovenia, and includes a four night stay in Slovenia, a night stay at a Slovenian thermal springs spa with its health-giving waters, and a night at a family friendly tourist farm stay with farm activities
there is a wide range of hotels with higher ratings. Slovenia also has a wide range of private rooms and apartments, with prices per person ranging from Euro 15 to 50 (AED 60 – 200) a night. Many private rooms offer breakfast. Holiday homes can be rented, mostly in holiday resorts. Slovenia’s inns offer accommodation, and good food, often in the best local style. Some pensions also offer excellent cuisine. All activities of the STB in 2016 are carried out in accordance with the vision to position Slovenia as a green, active and healthy destination, and to promote the I FEEL SLOVENIA brand, with special emphasis on the topics of Healthy Waters and Ljubljana, European Green Capital 2016.
Pivka cave
Soca river, photo Domen Grögl november/december 2016 39
Destination Dubai
The best of India in Dubai Celebrated Indian designer Ritu Kumar started her company in the late 1960s and more than 45 years later, she is as much a heritage of Indian design as much as the country’s numerous traditional crafts themselves. Munawar Shariff, Managing Editor, ThME, spoke to her about the brand’s stronger presence in Dubai with the opening of her second store recently
40 november/december 2016
T
his is the second time meeting Ritu Kumar for me. The first time was at a very large Indian designers’ event a few years ago where I had interviewed Kumar with her son Amrish who heads the brand’s contemporary pret line, Label. I mention to her that we met earlier perhaps more than five to seven years ago and surprisingly she remembers however we both are unable to recall the venue. She is warm, refined, polite and extremely well dressed. Kumar has travelled across the world in her long career. So when it comes to hotels, she is not easily impressed.“For me, it’s all about the comfort and the availability of all the basics,”she smiles, adding,“The hospitality scene today has become so diverse and interesting.”When talking about one of her most favourite places to stay in the world, she says, “We’ve been staying at the Intercontinental Paris which is a part of the very old Opera House for the last 30-40 years. I truly enjoy each of my stays there.”Having said that she feels that the new modern and functional hotels also have their
Destination Dubai
Ritu Kumar store
own charm. Kumar feels that India also has modern hotels now, even though they don’t necessarily have frills like butler services.“Travelers are now more sensitive to these things. In India, we’ve gone through the phase of having heritage hotels, where we had to walk half a mile to get access to the Internet, which was really inconvenient,”she says. Admittedly, Kumar has thought about doing interiors, but feels there isn’t enough time in her schedule to give it the right attention it deserves.“If you see my store in India, you will see a reflection of the idea, like textile-based wallpapers. Textiles are very significant in India, and are used all over the world in various forms, but there is
Ritu Kumar
a very tight space between art and architecture in India. If I had the time and space, I would have liked to do a serious home furnishing line, but that has not happened,”she muses. For Kumar, this is another discipline, one that she doesn’t see herself getting into anytime soon.“I think I would attempt soft furnishings at best,”she smiles, adding,“Of course, that would only be if I could give it my best, as I don’t do anything lightly.” Kumar has brought her brand to Dubai, opening her second store here. It seems like a late move for the designer, but for Kumar, it is just the right time.“We didn’t want to come in with a bridal offshoot of what we do for a particular community. Indian november/december 2016 41
Destination Dubai
design is coming of age now, and we are now able to offer something for an international audience, not just for a single ethnic group. We did not want to segment ourselves, and are happy with what we have now,”she explains. The store has three lines, with the wedding collection kept to the minimum, as Kumar feels this is a couture brand that is best done bespoke. “Indian fashion has a lot to offer, both in terms of design as well as sourcing. Our fabrics are our strength, and this is where I wanted to go with in the store. You will find collections that communicate with younger people, something that anybody from age 16 onwards could wear, and not specifically Indian,” she explains. Which is not to say that Kumar will not have a larger wedding collection in Dubai. She feels, however, that it’s an entirely unique service, one that needs its own space, so that could be coming up sometime in the future. When designing a particular line, Kumar goes back to her roots, sourcing the right textiles for her prints.“India is pretty much the source of textiles,
Imran Khan & Jemima Goldsmith with Late Princess Diana
so our sourcing of the craft to be used on the print is very important. And of course, designers from all over the world use our traditional motifs such as the paisley - it has really gone places being an original Indian motif. So internationally fashion these days is an amalgamation whereas we remain true to our roots,”she smiles. Kumar is known best for her iconic prints. But the journey to make that happen has not been easy.“When I first started, I was always intrigued by the prints from India, which were at their peak during colonial times. They had deteriorated since, and become almost unrecognisable. So once I returned from acquiring my education, I researched looking at the artworks in museums from different times in India’s textile, print, embroidery and art evolution. Then I started drawing, and recreated some of those motifs that I wanted to see more of. That’s how we started, on a little table, and out of that came something that binds us together,”she shares. Kumar believes Indian fabrics to be the country’s greatest strength, which
Ritu Kumar & Kriti Sanon
Ritu Kumar store 42 november/december 2016
Destination Dubai
Diwali in Ritu Kumar
If I had the time and space, I would have liked to do a serious home furnishing line, but that has not happened
originated on hand-spinning-based mechanisms.“We have the best natural resource to make the best fabrics, so much so that even something simple looks good, and it is instantly recognisable the world over. Colourful cotton fabrics and outfits are an inherent part of our tradition,”feels Kumar. But tradition is not necessarily what the millennials want today, so appealing to the new generation is not going to be easy. Kumar, however, takes this as a challenge.“We are doing exceptionally well in India because of what we offer. The world is turning towards natural and man-made rather than mill-made now. Natural fabrics have a depth that is unlike any other. They have a timeless appeal,”she asserts. It is this timelessness that Kumar is best known for, as her own designs have never gone out of style.“I am extremely proud of the fact that India perhaps is the only country where designers are still working with some kind of traditional craft. Everyone has their own interpretation, some do it in a november/december 2016 43
Destination Dubai
classic way, others in a more modern manner, but we are the only country that still remains true to tradition. No other country has evolved the same way, not China, not Thailand, not even Mexico,”she states. Which is why Indian style finds a place in a city like Dubai, even among non-Indians. The Dubai-style, for Kumar, is very laidback and comfort-oriented.“We need to dress according to our comfort, not what fashion dictates. For example, why would you want to wear black stockings in this heat? I feel very happy designing clothes that people would be comfortable in. Like with layering, or something which allows you to be creative,” she says. In the design process for the Label line, Kumar prefers to concentrate on editing the fabrics rather than the styling of the outfits. And for this, she concentrates her efforts on the best sourcing.“This year, as a company, we have taken up major revival work in Benaras, India, which is one of the many projects we are doing. Our efforts translate into different collections, so we have a few of those we create every year, enhancing and maintaining projects we have worked on for a long time now,” she concludes.
Ritu Kumar - Festive
Ritu Kumar - Bridal
Everyone has their own interpretation, some do it in a classic way, others in a more modern manner, but we are the only country that still remains true to tradition
44 november/december 2016
Picture perfect by fabric library
A huge range, all stocked and serviced
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www.tophotelprojects.com
So many more places to stay! Tophotelprojects brings you the latest developments in the hotel industry worldwide
46 november/december 2016
www.tophotelprojects.com
The Spanish hotel industry continues to expand With 80 new hotels under construction, and the number of international tourists on a permanent rise, tourism in Spain is back on top. Only last year, the number of overnight stays increased by over four per cent to 308 million. Some two thirds of those nights are booked by foreign tourists – with an upward tendency. This summer alone, classic holiday destinations have achieved new peaks in bookings, like the Balearic and Canary Islands, and the region of Barcelona. This leads to a positive investment climate in the hospitality sector. According to TOPHOTELPROJECTS, there are currently 80 new top hotels under construction, with a total of 15,300 rooms. Selected hotel projects in Spain Westin Palace – Madrid – 476 rooms – opening: spring 2017 Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – Gran Canaria / Mogan – 422 rooms – opening: spring 2017 Gran Playa de Palma – Mallorca – 380 rooms – opening: spring 2017 La Tejita Luxury Beach Resort – La Tejita – 342 rooms – opening: early 2018 Grand Luxor Hotel All Suites – Benidorm – 300 Zimmer – opening: autumn 2016 The Hard Rock hotel in Tenerife is one of the landmark projects in Spain. This lifestyle resort with 624 rooms (266 Suites) has an October opening. Around Euros 70 million were invested to completely rebuild an old hotel. It will be the second hotel of the Hard Rock Group in Europe, and an attractive opening ceremony is planned. The suites in the Rock Royalty Level – the upper floors of the Nirvana Towers – are the highlight of the hotel. They have their own concierge service, VIP check-in, and an overwhelming view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Rock Spa attracts with spacious indoor and outdoor pools. Further, there will be six restaurants and a Sky Lounge on the rooftop.
Bulgaria plans on strongly developing tourism industry The middle of Europe focuses on quality tourism. Bulgaria has long relied on the well-known coast of the black sea when developing its hotel and leisure centres. After facing a decline in mass tourism, it is now looking towards a growth of more than eight per cent in the number of tourists. According to Tophotelprojects, five outstanding top hotels – among others by the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Hyatt – are being built in Bulgaria right now.
At the end of next year, IHG plans to open a new InterContinental in the capital Sofia with 182 rooms. To accomplish this, IHG is renovating the existing Grand Hotel completely, and adding, among others, spacious conference areas and a rooftop restaurant. In the city of Plodiv, in the middle of the country, a Holiday Inn Hotel with 67 rooms is being built – due to open at the end of 2016. Also an exclusive project is the Hyatt Regency in Sofia, which will open in 2018, and will feature 190 rooms in an exquisite location in the city centre. Last, but not least, the Swissôtel in Sofia can be named among these projects. It will feature 207 rooms/ suites, and 76 serviced apartments, and will open its doors end of 2018. Included in the tourism concept of Bulgaria’s government is support for health and spa resorts upcountry. Swiss-Belhotel is planning a luxury resort with 100 rooms near the border to Greece. The project, called Mount Orpheus, is due to open in Q1/2017. About 60 per cent of all tourists who come to Bulgaria are from the EU – mostly from Germany, Greece and Romania. The holiday resorts on the coasts of the black sea are known to be safe, and therefore attractive – in comparison to holiday regions on the coasts of Turkey and Egypt. The number of charter flights to the airports of Varna and Burgas has climbed more than 25 per cent. This summer, Tophotelprojects launched its very own World Tour (#THPWorldTour) in London. This exclusive series of events include an expert symposium, change-table sessions, and a Creative Spark contest. Focused on hotel planner and operators, as well as supplier and contractors, the events take place in London, Miami, Dubai, New York City, Singapore and Berlin this year. For more information, log on to www. thpworldtour.com.
This summer alone, classic holiday destinations have achieved new peaks in bookings, like the Balearic and Canary Islands, and the region of Barcelona
november/december 2016 47
www.tophotelprojects.com
Illustration of Resorts World Las Vegas
Indonesia doubles tourist target Tourism brings peace and economic recovery - This is the thinking of the Government of Indonesia, which is why they plan to double the number of tourists within the next three years – to a total of 20 million. A first step towards this was the relaxation of the entry regulations for 170 countries – visitors can now stay on the island for 30 days without a visa. Therefore, it is not surprising that numerous new hotels are coming in. According to TOPHOTELPROJECTS, there are currently 112 new upper-class hotels under construction. And 25 of them are in Bali alone. Selected hotel projects in Bali, Indonesia Six Senses Bali – 157 Villas – planned opening: late 2017 InterContinental Bali Canggu Resort – 160 rooms and suites – planned opening: late 2017 Trump Resort and Residences Bali – 500 rooms – planned opening: early 2019 Anantara Ubud Bali Resort – 70 Villas – planned opening: early 2019 Sol House Jimbaran – 178 rooms and suites – planned opening: early 2018 Almost 40 per cent of all international travellers to Indonesia arrive on the paradise island of Bali. Further exciting destinations for hotels are the capital of Jakarta, and the island of Lombok. While the island of Lombok is only partially developed for tourism so far, it’s clean and white beaches and low traffic make it attractive. One large-scale tourism project is planned on the island of Bintang – close to Singapore. The Malaysian investment group Landmark has planned a 38-hectare leisure park with multiple luxury hotels on the island. Although, it is not yet 48 november/december 2016
To accomplish this, IHG is renovating the existing Grand Hotel completely, and adding, among others, spacious conference areas and a rooftop restaurant
clear when the 20-year construction period of the multi-billion-dollar project will finally start.
More than 50 hotel giants planned for USA
The USA is unbeatable in terms of hotel development. According to Tophotelprojects, currently 1,189 hotels projects, with more than 230,000 rooms, are currently in the pipeline in the United States. Tourism states like Florida (168 projects), California (134 projects), and New York (112 projects) are looking forward to the rising numbers of tourists. Hot spots such as Las Vegas and Seattle will also offer some stunning hotel projects in the next few years. Most interesting among these is the development of large hotels and resorts, with more than 500 rooms. Currently, 57 of those projects are in the pipeline, especially in Las Vegas. Besides the Venetian Resort Hotel (7,128 rooms) and the MGM Grand (6,852 rooms), the Resort World Las Vegas hotel is scheduled to open its four hotel towers, with more than 6,500 rooms, in early 2019. Top 5 hotel projects USA (by number of rooms) Resort World Las Vegas – 6,583 rooms – opening 2019 Marriott Marquis Miami World Center – 1,700 rooms – opening 2018 Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora – 1,504 rooms – opening 2018 Fifth Avenue Landing in San Diego – 1,396 rooms – opening to be announced 808 Howell in Seattle – 1,264 rooms – opening 2018
www.tophotelprojects.com
Accor Jo&Joe Beach Shack
The brand plans to offer a perfect environment for all kind of travellers: singles, couples, groups and families with its ‘Happy Floors’
New AccorHotels brand for Millennials Millennials, or the so-called ‘Generation Y’, is a target group of young adults that is challenging international hospitality. In collaboration with future guests, experts, students, and a committee with 12 millennials, the Accor management put together a new budget hotel concept: the JO&JOE brand. “Break with tradition, forget old habits, be surprising, authentic, unexpected, bring a breath of fresh air to AccorHotels,” explains Sébastian Bazin, Chairman and CEO of AccorHotels, the idea behind the new brand. The brand plans to offer a perfect environment for all kind of travellers: singles, couples, groups and families with its ‘Happy Floors’. Guests can stay at small ‘Happy House’ apartments, and enjoy a maximum of privacy or use the ‘Together’ modular sleeping area, with shared bathrooms and recreation areas. ‘Yours’ are rooms and apartments for up to five people with a private bathrooms, and some rooms also offer their own kitchen area. The ‘OOO!’ (Out Of the Ordinary) offers unexpected accommodations for people traveling alone or in groups, such as yurts, hammocks and caravans. The current plan is to expand the Jo&Joe brand rapidly with 50 properties by 2020, especially in destinations that are popular for the Millennials, such as Paris, Bordeaux, Warsaw, Budapest, Rio de Janeiro, and Sao Paulo. The venues will be located in the cities centres, close to public transportation, and less than 15 minutes away from major points of interest. The launch of its new brand is just one step of AccorHotels to expand its presence worldwide. Just recently, the French group acquired FRHI Hotels & Resorts with its three brands, Raffles, Fairmont and Swissôtel.
The Malaysian investment group Landmark has planned a 38-hectare leisure park with multiple luxury hotels on the island
Accor Jo&Joe - “Yours”
About
www.tophotelprojects.com TOPHOTELPROJECTS collects and manages data on hotel projects and chains worldwide, and offers their clients a comprehensive overview of new projects and refurbishments, as well as renovations and other building projects in the hotel industry. Besides the actual number of 5,000 hotel projects worldwide, the database also lists more than 2,000 hotel chains. november/december 2016 49
chef Interview
A passion forfood
Munawar Shariff spoke to Chef Fabio Vitale, Executive Chef at Al Faisaliah Hotal, Riyadh’s revamped Italian restaurant La Cucina about what makes him so good at what he loves to do
50 november/december 2016
chef INTERVIEW
During service, I have to ensure that all the dishes are prepared and delivered on point, as well as spend some time in the dining room to ensure that all is going well, and receive feedback from the guests
How long have you been at Al Faisaliah Hotel? I joined Al Faisaliah Hotel as Chef de Cuisine in May of 2015. Prior to that, I was working as an Executive Chef at Podmoskovnie Vechera Restaurant in Moscow, Russia. The opportunity to venture out to the Middle East, and join the team of the Al Faisaliah was too great to resist. What does your role entail? Take us through a typical day at work. As Executive Chef, I have to report to the General Manager of the daily operations of La Cucina. I work with a staff of 18, and together we make an excellent team. My daily duties include organisation, preparation, and quality of all kitchen services, the creation of the daily menu, any seasonal promotions, special evenings, and private dining. We aim to offer personalised services, as it is an Al Faisaliah Hotel trademark to provide guests with memorable dining experiences. I also handle the banqueting services, food cost calculation, inventory, cost control, food supply, time management, scheduling, training, and team development, according to HACCP standards. november/december 2016 51
chef Interview
Let your passion for cooking fuel you, and if you stumble along the way, keep moving forward
52 november/december 2016
My typical day starts with the morning briefing with the culinary staff to review positive and negative (if some) aspects from the day before, as well as review the programme for the current day. After that, it’s back in the kitchen for the quality control of the food delivered (that was ordered the day before), then overseeing all the kitchen operations, training the staff if necessary, and supervising preparation for the lunch rush. During service, I have to ensure that all the dishes are prepared and delivered on point, as well as spend some time in the dining room to ensure that all is going well, and receive feedback from the guests. After lunch, I do some administrative paperwork, make orders for the
next day, and start preparing for the dinner rush. What kind of research goes into creating new menus and/or programmes at the hotel? New menus are created based on seasons, and availability of the products, as well as the guests ‘favourites’. Tell us about how food is purchased for the hotel. Orders from every department in the hotel are sent to the Central Purchase department, which places orders daily for the items requested. The Central Purchase department also conducts market research for new products of good quality at the right price level.
chef INTERVIEW
How are guests’ demands changing, with the rise of intolerances such as gluten/celiac, or people eliminating food groups from their diets, such as vegans? How are you keeping up with such demands? Indeed, the guests have become more attentive, some because of intolerance, and others because they have changed their lifestyle and made a choice to banish meat and dairy from their table. The menus are created to please every need and palate; therefore, you’ll find a gluten-free dish, as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes on our menus. What do you think about the health food market in the country
and region? I think in the Middle East, health food is highly appreciated. Which is why here, in Riyadh, most of the big supermarket chains have a special department with healthy food from all around the world. You can even find even small local farms that produce organic fruit and vegetables.
on various seasonal employments for years at restaurants in Naples, and had the good fortune to work under Michelin Star Chefs, such as Chef Alain Dutournier. Practice makes perfect, and my years of being temporary help in the several kitchens of Naples renowned restaurants helped sharpen my culinary skills.
Where did you train to cook? As a young boy, watching my mother cook at home set the base for my training. From then on, I obtained a high school degree, majoring in Hospitality and Restaurant Management. During this time, I entered and won third place at the Culinary Competition Ferretti Premium. I took
How long have you been cooking professionally? Straight out of high school, I took on seasonal employments in Italy. In 1998, I started to cook professionally as Chef de Partie Saucier at Les CarrĂŠ de Feuillant, in Paris, France. I was fortunate to receive some training and guidance working at a 2 Michelin november/december 2016 53
chef Interview
I believe that the richness of flavours that we gain from traditional cooking cannot be compromised, and so I try translating the authenticity in modern creations
Stars restaurant, under the supervision of Chef Dutournier. What is your style of cooking? I try strike a balance between traditional and contemporary. I like to create dishes that my guests will enjoy, and so adjust my style according to their preferences. Personally, I believe that the richness of flavours that we gain from traditional cooking cannot be compromised, and so I try translating the authenticity in modern creations. The dishes may look visually stunning, but the taste definitely encompasses the essence of traditional cooking. On your day off, which restaurant do you like eating at?
54 november/december 2016
I definitely like to try other cuisines, primarily the local specialties of Riyadh, as well as Lebanese and Indian. Is there another chef you admire? Yes, two actually. Chef Alain Ducasse and Chef Massimo Bottura. What is your advice for someone who wants to become a chef? Never give up. It may be a clichĂŠ, but it is an overused statement as it is true. Only those who keep going gain success. Let your passion for cooking fuel you, and if you stumble along the way, keep moving forward. There is no shortcut to success, and all the hardship you may encounter is part of the journey. As Walt Disney said,“If you can dream it, you can do itâ€?.
chef INTERVIEW
Best meal •
At Heinz Beck’s La Pergola restaurant, Rome - 3 Michelin star Worst meal •
At Ristorante Don Alfonso, a 2 Michelin star restaurant on the Amalfi coast in Italy Best hotel experience •
George V, Paris France
All-time favourite comfort food •
Spaghetti with clams Favourite spice •
Tonka beans
Why you became a chef •
I love food, and I love to cook. For me, it is the best way to express my creativity, and I decided to turn my passion into a profession.
november/december 2016 55
Boutique hotels
Price. Convenience. Culture. As the type of traveller changes their preference for accommodation also changes. The Millennial traveller seeks a more authentic experience with an imperative requirement of all the basics. HVS’s Susan Furbay, VP Business Development, writes about the key takeaways from their recently held Boutique Hotel Investment Conference 56 november/december 2016
O
ver the past several years, hoteliers have become aware of the rise of the Millennial generation of travellers and the shifts in consumer behaviour its preferences have brought about in the field of hospitality. Price still matters. So does convenience. Increasingly, travellers seek out more than just a bed and bathroom, wanting their hotel stay to connect with the culture of the local city or neighborhood. Hotels that have historic significance and/or unique, locally influenced restaurants, dĂŠcor, or amenities fit the bill and attract this growing set of travellers. As evidence, the supply of lifestyle and boutique hotels has outpaced overall growth in the US lodging market, growing by over five per cent per year since 2000. The local culture, history, and entertainment and culinary scenes of markets such
as New York City, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. provide the most complementary environment for a memorable boutique hotel experience. Deeply ingrained historical and cultural aspects of such markets allow for a thriving boutique hotel industry with room for growth. As younger people flock to urban locations to work and live, city neighborhoods are undergoing gentrification and renovation projects in previously underdeveloped neighborhoods. This is fertile soil for boutique hotel developments, which can be a keystone of local revitalisation efforts.
As younger people flock to urban locations to work and live, city neighbourhoods are undergoing gentrification and renovation projects in previously underdeveloped neighbourhoods
Debt and equity for boutique hotels Some lenders still see the flag of a major
Boutique hotels
brand as the mark of legitimacy for a proposed hotel project, making it hard to make the case for a loan for an independent hotel. Since the 2008/09 recession, however, many institutional lenders have come to find enormous potential in independent hotels. When underwriting for boutique and lifestyle hotels, lenders give close consideration to the quality of sponsorship and their past and current relationship with a particular sponsor. With sponsorship approved, lenders look for a rock-solid business plan and at the quality of the real estate. Insiders at the 2016 Boutique Hotel Investment Conference report that, compared with last year, construction financing is becoming scarcer, and spreads have become wider for both balance sheets and CMBS loans. Loan to value ratios now range from 60% to 65% for most lifestyle/boutique products throughout various markets. Along with debt providers, equity
investors—both private equity and REITs—are becoming more active participants in the independent hotel sphere. According to JF Capital Advisors, over the last seven years, public REITs have acquired more independent than branded hotels—98 versus 92 properties, respectively. Furthermore, REITs paid more per key for boutique hotels—$400,000 versus $309,000 per key for branded hotels. Among the REITs, the most active buyers of boutique hotels include Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and LaSalle Hotel Properties. Private equity players active in the boutique space include groups such as KHP Capital Partners, Sydell Group, and KSL Capital Partners. Capital sources for these groups consist for the most part of
Some lenders still see the flag of a major brand as the mark of legitimacy for a proposed hotel project, making it hard to make the case for a loan for an independent hotel. Since the 2008/09 recession, however, many institutional lenders have come to find enormous potential in independent hotels
institutional investors (95 per cent), with five per cent coming from high-net-worth individuals. Typical holding periods range between five and seven years and generate IRR returns in the high teens to low 20s. While some private-equity investors build hotels from the ground up, most create value by acquiring existing hotels and converting them to lifestyle/boutique properties in urban markets.
Booking channels and capturing demand Independent hotels face a well-known challenge in that they do not have access to a brand-wide reservations system, which hotel franchises employ to such great extent in making bookings. Indepennovember/december 2016 57
Boutique hotels
dent hotel owners must find ways of attracting business without the support of a parent company. In a survey conducted by the BLLA, 59 per cent of independent hotel owners and operators said most of their bookings come through their hotel’s website or over the phone. Another 18 per cent come via Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), which some hoteliers, with a measure of seriousness and cynicism, term the “frenemy”—a reflection on the fees and some of the challenges imposed by OTAs. The bottom line is that word of mouth and grassroots promotion are crucial for independent hotels. Friends and family who have heard about or had direct experience with a boutique or lifestyle hotel help spread the word to other travelers and encourage bookings. Local establish-
Independent hotels face a well-known challenge in that they do not have access to a brandwide reservations system, which hotel franchises employ to such great extent in making bookings
58 november/december 2016
ments, too, can help guide travelers to recommended boutique hotels, which tend to advertise in more exclusive avenues to highlight their unique flair.
Should boutique hotels adopt a rewards system?
Like reservations systems, brand loyalty programmes are a key component of operations for the big hotel chains. Of course, the rewards apply to branded properties nationwide, a major convenience for frequent travelers. Given the single-location nature of independent hotels, delegates at the conference discussed the potential merits and challenges of boutique-oriented rewards systems. A BLLA survey asked owners and
operators if they participated in loyalty programs such as Stash Rewards, Preferred Hotels, or Leading Hotels of the World. Only 33% said they use a loyalty program, while the other two-thirds said they do not. For most who responded in the negative, the reluctance stems from questions about the benefits and advantages of a loyalty program to an independent hotel, or even a large boutique hotel group with multiple properties. The key, according to experts at the conference, is to dial in promotions and discounts at an individual hotel while connecting the property to a larger network of boutiques. The resulting critical mass potentially makes the rewards piece relevant and cost effective; reportedly, the programs can be enormously successful in generating business for the hotel and additional revenue for investors.
Boutique hotels
Like reservations systems, brand loyalty programmes are a key component of operations for the big hotel chains. Of course, the rewards apply to branded properties nationwide, a major convenience for frequent travellers
Conclusion The 2016 Boutique Hotel Investment Conference highlighted some important shifts in the business of developing, owning, and operating an independent hotel in today’s market. Undoubtedly, the broad-ranging financing community of public REIT owners, private-equity investors, and balance of CMBS lenders has welcomed investment in independent hotels, whose boutique and lifestyle offerings attract demand from millennials and style- (versus price-) conscious travelers. Apart from the potential demand capture and price point, these hotels also offer greater flexibility in both design and management, as well as higher operating margins, making them an attractive investment in today’s market. Securing bookings without a brand-wide reservations system and generating repeat visits in the absence of a loyalty program remain
challenges for independent hoteliers. But the scene is evolving on both fronts, as hoteliers find innovative ways to attract customers and learn more about the benefits of boutiqueoriented loyalty programs. In essence, however, independent hotels rely on travelers seeking a unique hospitality experience and, in this regard, their customer base and loyalty goes beyond the scope of brands.
About Susan Furbay Susan Furbay is Vice President of Business Development for HVS, working with hotel investors, brokers, owners, operators, and other clients seeking HVS expertise in markets around the world. Susan formerly served as Vice President of Acquisitions and Business Development at Sage Hospitality and as Director of North America Lending in GE Real Estate’s Hospitality division, where she originated and closed hotel loans totaling nearly US $500 million. -www.hvs.com november/december 2016 59
Sustainability
Rethinking
the footprint I
Travel today is accessible to a lot more people than it was a few decades ago. And that means a lot more people in and around the countries and cities. More tourists = more hotels. But hotels are doing a lot to reverse their carbon footprints. Writer Megan Wild reports on the many sustainable routes hotels have taken today 60 november/december 2016
n recent history, hotels have been accused of damaging the environment, and sometimes with good reason. The rise of mass tourism and cheap flights in the 1970s prioritised quantity over quality. And many once-pristine beach towns were transformed into polluted concrete jungles almost overnight. However, things are changing fast. Sustainable eco-tourism is on the rise in many parts of the world, and even large hotel chains are now doing their bit for the environment. It makes sense for them too: Today’s customers care more about their impact on nature than ever before. And many environmentally-friendly policies actually save money for hotel owners. Here are a few ways the hotel industry is catching up when it comes to sustainable environmental practices.
for all hotels and can account for up to 10 percent of a hotel’s total utility bill. It’s no surprise that reducing water use is now in vogue. Ever check into a Comfort Inn and notice a note urging you to reuse your towels and opt out of a fresh pair of sheets every night? The management isn’t just being cheap. Towels and linen reuse programs can save up to 6,000 gallons of water and 40 gallons of detergent every month at a single 150-room hotel. There are many less obvious ways to save water. Hotels can install low-flow toilets that use around six liters per flush and can improve pool maintenance to make sure there are no leaks. Sprinkling lawns in the evening rather than in the middle of the day also reduces water consumption.
Reducing water use is key
Waste reduction is good for the environment and your bottom line
Water is an obvious but essential cost
By their very nature, hotels produce
Sustainability
lot cheaper than paying local electricity rates or even using generators. Dubai is even set to open its first fully-solarpowered hotel!
Cleaning must be done sustainably
a huge amount of waste. According to one estimate, each guest produces about one kilo of waste per day. This can quickly add up to tons of daily waste for some hotels. Fortunately, hotels can mitigate this problem. Setting up a designated recycling bin in every room is a simple but effective step that an increasing number of hotels are taking up. It’s also increasingly frowned-upon to use separate plastic shampoo containers for every stay – more hotels are using refillable containers for shampoo and other bathroom necessities. Another creative option to tackle a hotel’s trash problem: The Maho Bay Camp in the U.S. Virgin Islands has a Trash to Treasures recycling program that repurposes some of the hotel’s trash to make beautiful craft items. Food is another huge part of the waste problem - in fact, most of the waste in hotels come from food. Luckily, food is one thing that’s easy
to reduce or recycle. Food waste can be used as compost and even turned into an energy source, while leftovers are easily donated to local food banks. Even restaurants in hotels are doing their bit by promoting locally-sourced ingredients.
Going solar is effective in sunny areas Energy is an obvious sustainability problem for hotels and a potentially huge cost saver. Hotels are huge energy consumers: In the US, it’s estimated that each hotel room gobbles up over US$2,000 a year in energy bills alone. Hotels are therefore primed to benefit from cheap green energy, particularly large hotels with huge power bills. Using solar power and wind energy is a key way to achieve this. Solar is particularly promising, especially when you consider that so many hotels are located in places with large amounts of sunshine. Powering your hotel will be a
Finally, cleaning is a major source of energy consumption and waste production in the hotel industry. Every room needs to be fresh, clean and nice-smelling, and that doesn’t come easily when hundreds of people use the same room every year. You can fight this by using sustainable materials for cleaning instead of industrial ones. Instead of using air freshener, for example, a few sprigs of lavender will usually do the trick! One important thing to keep in mind, however, is that hotel equipment such as floor scrubbers need regular maintenance. Old and dirty machinery uses up more power than properly-serviced equipment. Improperly serviced equipment also leaves a hotel looking less-than-sparkling clean, which is something that visitors notice instantly. A few good companies out there can ensure that such equipment operates at optimal efficiency, allowing hotels to stay clean and sustainable in the long-term.
Sustainability is the way to go In the end, hotels aren’t just businesses. In many tourism-dependent areas, they’re also major stakeholders in their local communities. It’s essential that the hotel industry keeps going down an increasingly environmentally-friendly and sustainable path. Coupled with the fact that the approach often saves money, the green trend taking over the hotel industry is likely here to stay. -Megan Wild is an advocate of commercial and residential sustainability. She has written for a variety of publications including Engineering, Construction Equipment Guide, and RISMedia. When she’s not tracking the latest energy trends, you can find her outside enjoying the great outdoors. www.triplepundit.com november/december 2016 61
Launch Elemis Superfood Oil
Review Pro Radiance
Products review Winter prep
Product launch and treatment review
Vitamins for your skin British skincare brand Elemis recently launched brand new face product - the Superfood Facial Oil at a classy and informal morning event at the Culinary Boutique in Jumeirah. Chefs prepared light breakfast options using the ingredients of the facial oil
Just like the multi-vitamins you take daily for the health and nourishment of your body, Elemis’ Superfood Facial Oil is the multi-vitamin for your facial skin. The oil is made using nine powerful ingredients - broccoli seed oil, poppy seed oil, cucumber seed oil, macadamia oil, diakon radish oil, rice bran oil, rosehip seed oil, flaxseed oil and meadowfoam seed oil. As with any Elemis product the smell is divine. The oil, however, has to be experienced to be believed. It is an oil, which your skin literally drinks up. The best part is even if you have oily skin, 64 november/december 2016
this oil doesn’t make you look oily at all. It nourishes, moisturises and sorts the skin almost instantly.You can’t really say what happened, but your skin looks instantly repaired and fixed! Dark spots/ areas seem lighter, pores are reduced, the skin looks together somehow. And the fact that it’s a 15ml bottle of which you need 3-4 drops at a time so it will easily last you for three to four months. This was the advice of the many beauty experts present at the event. Culinary Boutique chefs had a unique number of items being circulated around on the day all using the nine powerful ingredients of the oil.
Product launch and treatment review
Elemis Superfood Pro Radiance Facial Cleopatra Spa Wafi
The Cleopatra Spa is a beautiful and tranquil experience, and to enjoy the facilities one really must have the time to spare to really unwind and disconnect. The experience of being at a spa begins from the moment you enter it. And all of this adds up to how you will feel after the treatment. This spa always delights. We have to admit most of our skins are stressed and dull. This treatment has the nutritional boost that powerfully energises and detoxifies. The super powerful ingredients literally jump start tired and exhausted skin. The treatment as always began with a consultation, about diet, health, lifestyle and skin care habits. Following this the entire procedure of the treatment was explained. Once in the room, the therapist began with the cleansing of the eyes and lips, this was followed by the application of the skin specific toning lotion. And then came the facial massage, a very important step in readying the skin for receiving the rest of the products. Next was the exfoliation. The therapist mentioned that she was using a very mild exfoliator. As my skin was quite congested, the therapist decided on a steam and extraction. An amino active mask came next which restores lost moisture, deeply nourishes, detoxes and packs the skin with powerful, energising nutrients. This was the first of two masks, while the mask was on the face the therapist also applied the hydra gel eye masks under the eyes. Next she applied a peel off mask, While this mask was setting on the face she proceeded to do a scalp and hand and arm massage. After this the mask was removed the face was toned and the eye, face, neck and bust cream was applied as well as the sun protection cream and the treatment was done. Post treatment the skin looked clean from within, luminous, radiant, smoother, plumper and I somehow looked fresh. Benefits of this treatment are cell regeneration, detoxification, healing and brightening of the skin and eyes as well as an increase in oxygen to the skin cells. A complete winner. Verdict: Fantastic
and highly recommended!
november/december 2016 65
product review
Time for skin renewal
Winter is coming. Hopefully! Which means a break to the existing skin care routine and a reboot for the skin. This is the best time to do six week resurfacing programme or simply use an extra special skin care routine to prep the skin for the rest of the year
Jane Iredale Lemongrass Love Hydration Spray, 90ml, AED 129: This is a deliciously fragrant makeup setting spray, especially relevant if you are using mineral makeup. But works for both regular as well as mineral makeup. It dries rapidly leaving no residue and helps keep makeup stay on for long durations.
Elemis Superfood Facial Oil, 15ml, AED 378: Nourishing face oil which hydrates, nourishes, smoothes the skin making it feel balanced with a healthy and radiant glow. The oil is a blend of nine powerful plant-based superfoods that really plump and smooth the skin.
June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Enzyme Polish, AED285: A fresh and perfect skin polisher that removes surface debris. I find it a bit more effective when i apply it on dry skin and then gradually wet the skin as I continue working the beads. This leaves skin squeaky clean, smooth and luminous.
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bliss mistletoe must-haves AED 53: 1) Fabulips softening lip balm: Amazing for dry chapped lips and even for normal lips. Lips are supple, moist and far away from getting dry or broken. 2) High intensity hand cream (travel size): This is extremely hydrating, nongreasy, antioxidant rich, dryhand soother, softener and smoother. An ultra-rich hand balm that smoothes rough cuticles, too. Light citrus scent.
product review
June Jacobs Cranberry Pomegranate Moisture Masque, AED285: A luxuriously rich, soothing and hydrating mask. This is all the moisture boost you need when your skin feels extra dry or just in need of some extra tlc. Especially after the weekly exfoliation session, this mask provides all the nourishment the skin needs. I leave it on overnight at time too. Skin looks exceptionally well looked after in the morning.
bliss firm baby firm, moisturising gel cream, AED 286: This moisturising cream firms and provides instant moisture and makes skin soft, smooth and young looking. The gel texture makes this lightweight cream extra effective.
bliss lemon + sage body bar soap AED 69: A wonderful bath experience when using this soap; this lemony citrusy smell is refreshing as well as hydrating. And the best part is a little goes a long way. Expect lots of bubbles and fun while you massage with the stimulating soap bar.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Serum, 30ml, AED 857: This serum is precious. It reduces the appearance of lines, firms, smoothes and hydrates. The skin looks more tighter and moisturised. Perfect when used with the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.
June Jacobs Brightening Moisturiser AED475: The approaching winter means a time to rejuvenate the skin and introduce brightening and exfoliating and resurfacing products in the daily routine. This moisturiser is the best friend you will need to fulfil this for your face. It gently resurfaces while it adds moisture. Ingredients such as lactic acid removes dead skin cells, lemon peel extract rejuvenates and increases the luster of tired skin an enhances and brightens the skin tone.
bliss firm, baby, firm total eye system, AED 331: This is a 2-in-one cream with separate formulations for the upper lid and lower lid. Just the right texture for the ultra delicate eye area. Fine lines disappear and the eye area looks revitalised and hydrated.
march/april 2016 67
product review
Elemis Festive Gift sets For Her
For Him
Biotec Skin Energising System AED 750 consisting of:
The Perfect Gentleman, AED 378, consists of:
Biotec Skin Energising Cleanser 200ml, (full size AED 333): The Biotec range of products are meant to kind of regenerate the skin cells, to switch the skin back on like a reboot of the system. So when you are using this range refrain from using any other product on the skin till you run out of the products just so your reboot is complete before you go back to a previous skin routine. So this cleanser is an effective rejuvenating one which clears makeup and gives skin a fresh clean appearance. Biotec Skin Energising Cream 8ml, (full size 30ml AED 629): This range has potent encapsulated zinc and copper combined with other beneficial acids which help support and maintain optimum skin function and vitality. Leaving the complexion looking smooth, youthful and beautifully revived. The day cream and night cream are similar looking so you have to be careful. The cream is a combination of a two phase approach when dispensed hence provide that extra boost. Biotec Skin Energising Night Cream 30ml, AED 713: A very powerful skin re-energising cream which restores moisture, balance and gives the skin essential nutrition and rejuvenation.
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Ice-Cool Foaming Shave Gel 200ml (full size): The best thing you need for a fresh start to the day. Helps get the closest shave and keeps skin zingy fresh, invigorated, clean, smooth and good looking. Daily Moisture Boost 50ml (full size): This is a moisturising cream that gives the skin the necessary boost of moisture and nourishment after a shave. The texture is light weight and feels as if you have nothing on your skin. Revitalise-Me Shower Gel 200ml (full size): This is the final product that provides the full morning freshening wake up routine in the most apt way. Ingredients such as thyme, basil and neroli provide the refreshing scent of an unforgettable showering experience.
3D precision, exceptional comfort...
Junea
®
Dubai Showroom P.O. Box 500466, Design House, Al Sufouh 1, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 (0)4 430 7465 Fax: +971 (0)4 430 7469 Email: sales@burgessfurniture.com Web: www.burgessfurniture.com
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