MAGAZINE
SHANTIVILLAS ALGARVE
PORTUGAL
What are your most cherished holiday memories? Perhaps they evoke the feeling of the sun’s warmth on your face during a crisp winter day. With Shantivillas Group, those precious memories can be relived and new ones created with your loved ones. Whether the preference is for the privacy of the countryside, where nature trails beckon and a warm pool invites relaxation, or the allure of waking up to the sound of waves crashing just steps away from the door, surrounded by the salty breeze of the Atlantic Ocean, Shantivillas offers it all.
And what better place to experience these moments than in the versatile and sun-soaked Algarve? Shantivillas Group proudly offers twelve prestigious villas, accommodating groups from 4 to 16 people. Each property is rich in amenities, including pool heating and games rooms, ensuring that guests can create lasting memories.
Discover the true Algarve experience with Shantivillas Group.
Provided by Shantivillas Algarve
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INTERCONTINENTAL
With a legacy spanning over 100 years, InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest is deeply rooted in culture and heritage, offering guests stunning views of George Enescu Square, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Royal Palace. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms, two restaurants, a bar, and a secluded summer terrace, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Bucharest. Guests can host events in the elegant ballrooms, unwind with a massage in the spa, or take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool.
As InterContinental Hotels & Resorts’ newest destination, this rebranded Athénée Palace Hotel ushers in a new era of luxury hospitality in Romania, promising a refined experience in an urban landscape rich with art and history.
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE DEEPLY ROOTED IN
HERITAGE
INTERCONTINENTAL ATHÉNÉE PALACE BUCHAREST
NICOLAAS HOUWERT
General Manager
Prior to the 2024 LUXE Global Gala, we had the privilege of sitting down with Mr. Nicolaas Houwert, General Manager of InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest, a landmark hotel with a rich history and a reputation for luxury.
In this conversation, we delve into the storied past of the Athénée Palace, its transformation into a premier destination, and the exciting future it holds. Join us as we explore the unique blend of heritage and modernity that defines this iconic establishment and discover the passion and vision driving its continued success in the world of luxury hospitality.
Firstly, could you tell us more about the history of InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest?
The Athénée Palace, constructed in 1914, gained notoriety as a “den of spies” from both the East and West during World War II and the Cold War. In 1948, the Romanian Communist government nationalized the hotel, installing surveillance devices in every room and allegedly employing numerous informers. After the Romanian Revolution, the hotel underwent extensive renovations and reopened, becoming one of the first internationally branded 5-star hotels in 1997. Following another complete renovation during 2021-2022, the Athénée Palace was rebranded as part of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in January 2023.
What does it mean for the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest to host the LUXE Global Awards Gala?
The Owning Company Ana Hotels, IHG, and the team at InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest are immensely proud to host the LUXE Global Awards Gala. Welcoming the finest luxury hotels from around the world highlights the importance of Bucharest and Romania in the international tourism and hospitality sector, reinforcing our commitment to providing high-quality experiences for our guests and visitors.
Can you tell us about your career path and what led you to become the General Manager of InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest?
From an early age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in hospitality. While studying at the Hotelschool the Hague in the Netherlands, my passion for luxury hotels was ignited during my trainee position at the President Wilson, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Geneva, Switzerland. I then spent a year as an F&B Management Trainee at the Hotel Hershey in Pennsylvania, USA. Upon returning to the Netherlands, I began my professional career with Hilton Hotels & Resorts. My career subsequently took me from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, Antwerp, Copenhagen, Paris, Belgrade, and London. I progressed through various operational roles, ultimately becoming a General Manager and opening or converting four hotels while working in nine different countries.
When IHG approached me to lead the rebranding of the Athénée Palace to InterContinental, I was immediately intrigued, as it aligned perfectly with my aspiration to work again in a luxury hotel environment.
What are your favourite aspects of InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest?
The glamourous setting of the lobby, guest rooms, meeting space and dining facilities. The InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest has always been a podium for Royals, Diplomats, Politicians and Captains of Industries from all over the world. We welcome individual leisure or business travellers, as well as groups, and the team is able to accommodate all our valued guests applying IHG’s Luxury Fundamentals consistently. As a result, the hotel became Number 1 on TripAdvisor, based on our guest’s feedback within
the first year of re-branding. I enjoy meeting with our guests and spending time with the team on anticipating our guest’s needs, and to focusing on continuously improving the services and facilities so as to remain the leading hotel in Bucharest.
How does the history and heritage of the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest enhance the experience of the gala?
I sincerely hope that attendees of the LUXE Global Awards Gala enjoy the enchanting ambiance and grand entrance through the Colonnades area, an integral and preserved part of the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest.
The exquisite décor, paired with the exceptional culinary delights prepared by our dedicated team, enhances the luxurious setting and promises unforgettable experiences. Under the leadership of our renowned Executive Chef Yevgen Denysenko, our kitchen brigade excels, and our conference and events department is one of the best in the region according to our guests.
experience with exclusive shopping options.
What do you believe is best factor to motivating staff to curate a successful guest experience?
InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, the esteemed luxury brand of IHG Hotels & Resorts, unveiled an ambitious global evolution plan, ushering in an exciting new chapter in the brand’s history.
Could you highlight some of the exclusive amenities and services that guests can enjoy during their stay at InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest?
At the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest, guests can enjoy a range of exclusive amenities and services designed to provide a luxurious experience. The Club InterContinental Lounge offers personalized services, complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea, and evening canapés, all in a serene environment with an outdoor terrace, and a private meeting room.
Dining options include Roberto’s Italian restaurant and the English Bar, known for their exquisite menus and sophisticated ambiance. Guests can also relax at the hotel’s spa, featuring an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a variety of wellness treatments.
The rooms and suites combine historical charm with modern luxury, offering high-quality furnishings and premium amenities to ensure comfort. Additionally, the newly renovated Café Athénée will reopen this autumn, and by the end of the year, a flagship international luxury fashion brand will open within the hotel premises, enhancing the overall guest
Known for its consistent innovation in delivering unforgettable memories to travellers, InterContinental’s plan features a multi-faceted evolution of its brand culture, design concepts, dining experiences, and unique brand differentiators. This plan integrates cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and the exceptional talents of its team members to redefine the luxury travel experience, achieving a harmonious balance between freedom and familiarity. Being part of this exciting journey, is celebrated in Bucharest by sharing results during our monthly Friday Bar – where all team members are coming together to celebrate success, learn about individual and team achievement and how we can inspire each other to live our motto “Aim Higher together”.
Finally, what are your future plans and aspirations for InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest, and how do you envision it evolving to cater to the changing needs of luxury travellers in the coming years?
At InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest, we continuously strive to exceed the expectations of our luxury guests. Our award-winning IHG One Rewards loyalty program allows guests to communicate their stay preferences in advance. Leveraging technology and guest data, we can recognize most of our guests and anticipate their special requests. I believe this program will be further enhanced to offer personalized recommendations, such as local events, special dining or relaxation offers, and optimal room assignments.
Later this year, we will embark on a master plan to introduce a new concept for our main restaurant and bar. Alongside a complete renovation of the Spa InterContinental, these improvements will further elevate our facilities as we aim to remain the luxury hotel of choice in the region.
GRAND HOTEL VICTORIA CONCEPT & SPA ITALY
The Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa, a 5-star luxury hotel nestled on the shores of Lake Como, offers an exquisite blend of neoclassical elegance and contemporary design. Recently renovated, the hotel’s highlight is the ERRE SPA—a spacious sanctuary where time stands still, and the body rejuvenates in natureinspired settings.
With a commitment to harmonizing tradition and innovation, the hotel provides breathtaking views of Lake Como, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the serene beauty and modern luxury of this unique destination.
THE BRIDGE MGALLERY WROCLAW
POLAND
The Bridge Wroclaw MGallery, with its luxurious design, offers a perfect retreat for reflection and relaxation. Located in Wroclaw’s historic district, the hotel immerses guests in a cultural hub known for its performing arts, music, and theater. The property features 184 stylish rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the city, river, and cathedral.
CRAFT restaurant and bar, known for its locally sourced ingredients and open kitchen, provides a culinary experience in an industrial yet elegant setting. Guests can unwind in the rooftop spa, sauna, and fitness center or gather on the rooftop terrace for intimate events or morning yoga sessions.
For business, the hotel offers extensive meeting facilities with natural light and modern AV equipment, including a spectacular ballroom that accommodates up to 400 guests and has direct access to the hotel’s green oasis.
Provided by The Bridge MGallery Wroclaw
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ON THE MIC WITH ALEX GRECU:
A JOURNEY FROM ACTIVE LIFESTYLES TO HOSTING GLOBAL EVENTS
In the world of media and event hosting, few names resonate as strongly as Alex Grecu. From cycling across Romania to promote active living to becoming the voice of major events, Alex’s journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and professionalism.
As the Master of Ceremonies for the 2024 LUXE Global Awards Gala, Alex brings his unique blend of energy and expertise to the forefront. In this interview, we delve into his career, insights, and aspirations as he prepares to lead one of the most prestigious events in the luxury industry.
Can you tell us about your journey into the world of media and presenting? What inspired you to pursue this career path?
It all started 10 years ago when I took part in a great project called “Active Romania.” I cycled 2,500 km through Romania in 30 days to promote a healthy and active lifestyle. During this experience, we had media coverage, and I felt a strong connection with the microphone and with the audiences in the cities we visited. It was a kind of revelation for me, I realized that I wanted to become a presenter.
Right after this project, I started to actively work towards my goal of becoming a presenter, and everything fell into place unexpectedly quickly. So yes, I think it was meant to be. I immediately started working also as a voiceover artist, and five years after pursuing my dream job, I began presenting at one of the most important radio stations in Romania with national coverage, Europa FM.
Now I can say that my feeling was
right! I simply love speaking at the microphone, connecting with people and all my experiences - events, voiceover and radio - help me build a truly complete presentation.
You’ve hosted a wide range of events, from corporate conferences to sports events. What has been your favorite type of event to host and why?
I really can’t say that I have a favorite type of event because what I love about my hosting experience is the variety of events and the fact that I can apply the experience from one to another. This gives me a valuable perspective, as I have experience with a wide variety of audience types, allowing me to adjust my speech to suit each one as well as possible.
As the Master of Ceremonies for the 2024 LUXE Global Awards Gala, what are you most looking forward to?
The well-being of the event is my top priority! From my perspective, my role and responsibility as a Master of
Ceremonies is to manage all moments, whether we encounter problems or not, and to provide the audience with a smooth and pleasant experience. I take my role very seriously because the presenter is the face of the event. No matter what kind of issue may arise, the person on stage must take responsibility and be able to handle any situation successfully.
Can you share a memorable moment from your career as a presenter or MC that has stayed with you?
I think one of the most memorable moments for me was during the pandemic period, when events were being streamed online and the guests were connected via video calls. Picture this: I was presenting an event about agricultural funds for one of the biggest banks in Romania, live from a studio. We had a panel with three guests and a moderator for the discussion, who was an employee of the bank, all connected remotely. However, our moderator was having difficulties with his microphone, we were live, so I couldn’t continue with the planned flow without him.
To keep the event going without any awkward pauses or interruptions, I started interviewing the guests without any information from the organizer about the topic of discussion or any real knowledge about agriculture. Don’t ask me if the questions were relevant or not, but the event carried on very naturally, with no awkward gaps, and after 15-20 minutes, the moderator finally connected.
In the end, the event was a complete success, and for me, it was one of the most important learning experiences of my career.
You often promote an active and healthy lifestyle. How do you balance your professional commitments with your passion for sports and fitness?
My sports activity is my main source of energy for all my projects. The primary benefit, from my point of view, is that an active lifestyle gives us a healthy mindset! My training sessions are the moments where I cultivate my ambition, discipline, determination and patience, or where I burn off negative energy.
So, I would say that one of the key ingredients of my professional success is the confidence I gain from my sports activity.
What role does spontaneity play in your presentations, and how do you prepare for unexpected situations during live events?
I treat every event as a living organism because it is
never the same and constantly develops in different directions. This is why it’s essential to keep an open mind, avoid being rigid, and remain spontaneous, playful and positive. Paying attention to all the details discussed by the guests on the stage or the audience, will always be a source of inspiration and a good foundation for making relevant comments.
When it comes to unexpected situations, after the pandemic experience, I try to learn as much as possible about the event’s topic so that I feel comfortable with the subject. Otherwise, at this point, I feel that the experience I’ve gained over the years, along with my professional background, helps me manage any situation with ease.
What advice would you give to aspiring presenters and hosts who want to break into the industry?
Be patient! Study diction and public speaking! Always evaluate your performance after every event! These ideas were part of my strategy for reaching this point in my career. I never aimed to be “the best presenter”, I don’t believe in that concept in our field, but I always strive to be the best version of myself and to keep improving.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, my goal is to present international events outside of Romania. At this point, I have started working on a strategy to take all my experience to the next level.
Personally, I love my passions for sports, motorcycling, and fast cars, but my main wish is to find as much time as possible for my son, Tudor. I love being a father, it’s the best feeling in the world for me and I’ve realized that being a father has given me the greatest fulfillment of my life. So yes, personally, my goal is to make every second count for my family.
With a decade of experience under his belt and a deep passion for connecting with audiences, Alex Grecu is a presenter who truly embodies the art of hosting. As he takes the stage at the 2024 LUXE Global Awards Gala, we can expect nothing short of excellence. His commitment to his craft, coupled with his love for family and fitness, continues to propel him toward new heights in his career. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for this dynamic and inspiring individual.
HYATT REGENCY LISBON PORTUGAL
Located in Lisbon’s Belém district, Hyatt Regency Lisbon features 204 modern, spacious rooms and suites, some with balconies offering stunning views of the Tagus River.
The hotel boasts an on-site spa managed by Serenity – The Art of Well Being, along with a state-ofthe-art gym, Active by Serenity, offering personalized wellness programs. Guests can enjoy the rooftop bar and lounge, meeting rooms, and convenient parking facilities.
Positioned perfectly for exploring Lisbon’s rich history and culture, the property offers luxury riverfront living in the heart of the city.
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VERBA MAYR INTERNATIONAL HEALTH CENTER
RUSSIA
International Health Center VERBA MAYR is the first center in Russia operating according to international standards of modern integrative medicine.
The medical concept of the Verba Mayr center is based on the Modern Mayr Medicine. Patients who have undergone a course of Mayr therapy at Verba Mayr report high energy levels, a sense of lightness, vitality, sound sleep, weight loss, metabolism normalization, and long-term remission of various chronic diseases, many of which had been unsuccessfully treated for years.
Verba Mayr offers:
• Hotel 5*: Outstanding service and confidentiality
• Clinic: Modern evidentiary medicine.
• Spa center: Swimming pool with artesian water and state-of-the-art facilities for recovery and relaxation.
• Restaurant: Author’s cuisine and healthy products of our own production.
• Cosmetology: Medical and anti-age cosmetology, and skincare programs.
• Diagnostics: Personalized examinations based on the latest scientific knowledge.
IN THE NEXT EDITION... ADVENTURES
IN ASIA
In the October issue of the LUXE Travel Magazine get ready to embark on a journey through Asia’s most luxurious escapes. Discover the serene beauty of The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas in Malaysia, the cultural charm of Kauri in South Korea, and the tropical paradise of Vana Belle in Koh Samui, among other breathtaking destinations.
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