MStyle #10

THE M E L I Á H OT E LS I N T E R NAT I ONA L L I FE S TYL E M AG AZ I N E

INFINITE MOMENTS CUBA: RELAX IN VARADERO, COME ALIVE IN HAVANA MILAN’S TORRE GALFA SKYSCRAPER IS REBORN THE AUTUMN APPOINTMENT: LEONARDO DA VINCI AT THE LOUVRE CARTAGENA DE INDIAS: A CITY BUILT FOR ROMANTICS THE MELIÁ GROUP’S BEST ROOMS WITH A VIEW NEW SENSATIONS: EXPLORE VIETNAM WITH MELIÁ LONDON CALLING: A STROLL THROUGH KENGSINGTON

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

PHOTO: SONI MARTÍNEZ

I

’m pleased to present a new edition of MStyle, a magazine that goes beyond reporting on our hotels and aims to be a window on the trends and lifestyles today’s travellers look for. This time, our cover takes us to the beautiful beaches of Varadero, Cuba, where we also report on fashion, with the spectacular Spanish actress Macarena García.

Inside, MStyle’s pages also bring us the nostalgic and monumental beauty of Havana, in the year it celebrates the 500th anniversary of its founding.

For over 60 years, we at Meliá Hotels International have reinvented ourselves to exceed the expectations of our customers. Therefore, our portfolio gathers the global trends that today embody the evolution of hospitality, all perfected in our extraordinary hotels.

We’ll introduce, for example, the new Meliá Saïdia Beach resort in the ‘Blue Pearl’ of Morocco, so-called for its light and proximity to the Mediterranean, as well as the Meliá Sol Dunas family resort on Sal Island in Cape Verde. Further to the east in Tanzania, our Meliá Serengeti Lodge celebrates its first anniversary with recognition as the ‘best international resort’ by readers of Condé Nast Traveller.

From Africa we jump to Colombia, to visit the new Meliá Cartagena Karmairí, an exotic haven of well-being and relaxation 15 minutes from Cartagena de Indias, and to the Bahamas, where we visit our fantastic Meliá Nassau Beach.

And in Europe, we’ll plan a weekend in the home of the Thames, with the Meliá London Kensington as a base, or a visit to Vienna, staying at the iconic Meliá Vienna, a skyscraper designed by Dominique Perrault which dominates the magnificent City of Music’s skyline.

Art and the avant-garde take centre stage in this edition of MStyle, which will take readers on a tour from the Renaissance – with this year’s Leonardo Da Vinci exhibition at the Louvre – to the leading edge, exhibited at the Sónar Festival in Barcelona in collaboration with ME hotels by Meliá, all tied together with an interview with the President of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (‘The Met’) in New York. Nor do we forget Asia, where we dive into the holistic world of Meliá Ba Vi Mountain in Vietnam, and we look forward to one of the most eagerly awaited openings at the legendary Ha Long Bay, also in the Southeast Asian country.

If we’re talking about trends, our customers today demand as a priority a responsible commitment to the planet. So, this time the ‘Hospitality for a Better World’ section summarises our environmental strategy. And above all, hospitality is now also defined by experiences. With this in mind, our magazine will take you to a world of beauty and wellness, hand-in-hand with our partners – for example, the high-end, environmentally friendly cosmetics by Rituals, and La Terrace restaurant at Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora on the island of Tenerife, where chef Jorge Peñate’s menu and Atlantic ocean views compete in exclusivity and exquisiteness.

Finally, if you’re a lover of luxury and ‘the good life’, don’t miss the ‘Trendy’ section, with the latest campaign ‘Spanish Lessons’, centred on the values of authentic Spanish luxury, excellently represented by our brand Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts.

Thank you for trusting in Meliá Hotels International.

Gabriel Escarrer Jaume Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Meliá Hotels International

THE M ELI Á HOTELS INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS VICE PRESIDENT

María Umbert GLOBAL BRAND STRATEGY & MARKETING VICE PRESIDENT

Anthony Cortizas CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Ana Rubio CORPORATE COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR

Nerea Valencia HEAD OF DESIGN SERVICES

Enric D’Abadal GLOBAL PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT

PUBLISHED BY EDICIONES CONDÉ-NAST S.A. MANAGING EDITOR

David Moralejo ART & DESIGN DIRECTOR

Javier Trapero EDITORIAL OFFICE

Rosa Marqués (DEPUTY EDITOR) CONTRIBUTORS PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Ricardo Ramos, Eileen Travell.

FEATURE WRITERS: Clara Laguna, Gema Monroy, Arantxa Neyra, Carmen Reviriego, Juan Luis Guillén, Marisa Santamaría, Asun Cedena.

ILLUSTRATORS: Félix Díaz de Escauriaza.

TRANSLATION: VeraContent RESEARCH

Reyes Domínguez (DIRECTOR) Cristina Verd, Eva Vergarachea.

PHOTO: RICARDO RAMOS.

PRODUCTION

Rosana Vicente, Fernando Bohúa, Juan Ignacio Bocos.

PRINTING: Rotocobrhi y Nueva Imprenta.

BINDING: Felipe Méndez.

CATALOGUE No. M-17889-2015 Ediciones Condé Nast S.A. is in no way responsible for any opinion expressed in the features as these are the sole responsibility of their respective authors.

Macarena García, on the beach in Varadero, wears a long, buttoned satin dress from Léane and a bra made of velvet and lace from Love Stories.

B U LGA R I A

CA P E V E R D E

C ROAT I A

C U BA

A new generation of hotels & resorts designed for the new modern families, which includes great kids facilities and adult-oriented areas and programs.

solbymelia.com

M O RO CCO

S PA I N

VIETNAM

INDONESIA

THE MELI Á H OT ELS INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS

N O . 1 0 A U T U MN / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9

THE

GOOD LIFE COVER PHOTO: Actress Macarena García on the beach in Varadero – right next to the Meliá Internacional Varadero – wears a triangular top with a front buckle and a bikini brief with Vichy square design from Pale Swimwear.

Photo: Ricardo Ramos

54

NEW DESTINATION

140

A PASSION FOR GOLF

62

ARCHITECTURE

142

FAMILY

144

FOOD & BEVERAGE

146

TRAVEL CORNER

148

BUSINESS

150

A NEW WELLNESS

152

AWARDS

hotel with actress Macarena García.

The Meliá Serengeti Lodge, Best International Resort by Condé Nast Traveler 2019.

110

154

WINTER LEISURE

156

TRAINING FOR THE FUTURE

158

ART AND THE AVANT-GARDE

160

LIFESTYLE

Saïdia, the Moroccan coast’s best-kept secret.

The INNSIDE Milano Torre Galfa, the place to be in the capital of fashion.

68

TRENDY

A spotlight on the Spanish Lessons campaign at the Gran Meliá hotels.

76

SUNNY DAYS

Cartagena de Indias and the Meliá Cartagena

12

Karmairí Hotel – the perfect combination.

SO COOL

Hotel rituals and essentials.

16

IN THE FIRST PERSON

Antonio González, president of the Palma Aquarium.

20

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER WORLD

The importance of sustainability in company policies.

28

ART – INTERVIEW

Speaking with Daniel Weiss, CEO of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

34

Paris, where this autumn’s greatest exhibition will take place at the Louvre.

SWEET & EXOTIC

We visited the Meliá Nassau Beach resort in the Bahamas, located next to a breathtaking beach.

46

WHAT TO DO IN

Ready to explore London's famous Kengsington neighbourhood?

90

THE OBSERVATORY

We explore the role played by Meliá Hotels International in the leisure industry.

98

FASHION

We visit the Meliá Internacional Varadero

FRESH AIR

We shine a spotlight on the magic of Havana and its 500th birthday celebrations.

ART

We follow in the footsteps of Leonardo Da Vinci in

38

86

IN THE CITY

The DC Tower – the ceiling of Austria.

116

FUN DESTINATION

The Meliá Group’s best rooms with a view.

130

THE JEWEL

The Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat & Spa in Vietnam is just what you need to recharge.

162

NEXT DESTINATION

The Meliá Group is preparing its arrival to the mythical Ha Long Bay in Vietnam.

Let's play a round at the Cocotal Golf & Country Club in Punta Cana.

Travelling to the Caribbean with the kids.

We celebrate the opening of La Terrace at the adult-only Red Level at the Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora hotel in Tenerife.

Want to win 50,000 points in MeliáRewards?

The Meliá Castilla, a model MICE-sector hotel.

Amenities from the Rituals brand at our hotels.

The Meliá Royal Tanau – a skier’s paradise in heart of the Pyrenees.

Meliá participates in the ICEX Spanish Gastronomy Training Program.

ME by Meliá at the Sónar Festival in Barcelona.

INNSiDE Calviá Beach, a resort destination.

We got our start in Majorca in the 1950's. This has given us an extraordinary wealth of experience in the leisure market, unique to our company.

Our international competitors would only go into this leisure business 30 years later, with us already leading in the Mediterranean Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International (p. 90)

WOMAN

SO COOL

3

2

5

6

4

7 9 8

Do not disturb!

The ritual of getting dressed up for a drink is one of the simple pleasures of the hotel experience. And make sure to pack your beauty essentials – you’re going to need them.

1. Instant Flash Ampoules by Isdin. 2. Support for healthy hair growth with Hairlift by Gold Collagen. 3. Les Exclusifs 1957 perfume by Chanel. 4. Immortelle Divine Cream by L'Occitane. 5. Spanish sandals by Pura López. 6. Touch The Luminous Gold eau de toilette by Tous. 7. Bra by Etam. 8. Handbag by Daniel Espinosa. 9. Étoile d’Une Nuit eau de parfum by Annick Goutal.

Production: CLARA LAGUNA. Photography: SILVIA TORTAJADA. Photography assistant: MARIUS OHNUT

1

SO COOL

MAN

3 2

4

5

6

Room Service

7

Getting ready to go for a rooftop cocktail is almost as exciting as the drink itself.

There’s something sexy about a hotel’s social scene.

1. Floral socks by Happy Socks. 2. Sauvage All Purpose moisturiser by Dior. 3. Uomo Urban Feel eau de toilette by Salvatore Ferragamo. 4. Renewing Body Bio-Scrub by Natura Siberica Tuva. 5. Bumbag by Tod's. After Game by El Ganso. 6. Wallet by Montblanc. 7. Oris Divers Sixty-Five watch.

Production: CLARA LAGUNA. Photography: SILVIA TORTAJADA. Photography assistant: MARIUS OHNUT

1

WELCOME TO YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Visit us at STROHM-TEKA.COM

IN THE FIRST PERSON

The future is now

Antonio González Clemente, General Manager of the Palma Aquarium and President of the Palma Aquarium Foundation

As President of the Palma Aquarium Foundation, I am pleased to announce that we are joining forces with Meliá Hotels International in our effort to protect the environment.

The Palma Aquarium Foundation is a non-profit organisation that provides services and materials, along with a team of experts, in order to carry out environmental projects, campaigns and outreach, all with the goal of bettering the future of our planet. We are a young and small organisation with big ambitions. Founded in 2016, we have made great strides in our short career, including a collaboration with Meliá Hotels International – a large and well-established hotel chain with extensive professional experience.

Last month, these two leading institutions signed a collaborative agreement. This agreement will permit the Foundation to undertake actions and activities that will protect species and habitats whilst expanding society’s involvement in our efforts to respect nature. Alongside this, it allows us to embrace the fundamental values our two cutting-

'WE ARE JOINING FORCES WITH MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL IN OUR EFFORT TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT'.

edge entities hold. United by these complementary values, the organisations can work together to address current environmental issues as a means to ensure the long-term balance and health of our environment’s natural resources. The collaboration consists of working together on several projects, with one of the most important being the conservation of sea turtles in the Mediterranean.

The Meliá Hotels International has a strong and tangible connection with sea turtles, seeing that some of its hotels’ locations are next door to nesting beaches. For example, Meliá Hotels International does a magnificent job protecting sea turtles on several beaches in Mexico, where it has multiple hotels.

This collaboration agreement aims to expand upon Meliá’s methods and further contribute to the conservation of sea turtles in other countries, especially in Spain’s Balearic Islands.

Precisely for this reason, Meliá Hotels International has financed several projects in this region.

Among them, the hotel chain funded the visit of a leading biologist from one of the most abundant nesting beaches in Cape Verde.

During their visit to the Balearic Islands, they were able to share their knowledge to help the beaches on these islands.

Another objective of the agreement is to conduct training for employees, guests, and suppliers at all Meliá Hotels in different countries around the world. For example, thanks to this initiative, the staff of the Palma Aquarium Foundation will train all Meliá Hotels International entertainment managers so that they can offer ‘Kids Clubs’ environmental education activities – teaching children in a fun, entertaining and interactive way.

At the same time, the employee training regarding the environment where they live and work is also a very significant aspect of the agreement, and different actions will be carried out through days of environmental-dissemination activities. With this training, staff members are made aware of the impact they have on the sea and the threats they pose. In particular, these sessions will go into greater depth on environmental issues in the Mediterranean.

Together we will work on promoting excellence in fostering sustainability and the practice of recycling, as well as waste selectivity and reduction.

Royal Bliss and its logotype are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company.

GET COMPLEX. GET SEDUCED.

Coca-Cola watches the environment with ‘Circular Seas’ Coca-Cola keeps working to contribute for a better environment with its new project Circular Seas. This initiative is Coca-Cola’s biggest plan for coastal cleaning and marine bottom preserving in Spain and Portugal. Its goal is to collect every single package so that none of them ends up as litter, especially in the oceans. More than 80 beaches will be cleaned off by the end of 2018 and CocaCola will contribute to preserve 11 marine bottoms in Iberia. The company plans to collect waste with the help of 1,000 people and 50 shipping boats.

Thus, Coca-Cola, together with the Spanish Ministry of Fisheries and three eco-friendly associations, is cleaning different beaches in every region of Spain and Portugal. This project also has got the support of over one hundred entities, including NGOs, universities and local governments.

Apart from coastal cleaning, Circular Seas is a plan to recover natural areas, to prevent littering by means of public awareness campaigns and to contribute to scientifi studies and circular economy.

Carmen

Gómez-Acebo,

Director

of

Our plans are to keep this as a long-term project, not just a one-time coastal cleaning.

Corporate

Responsibility at Coca-Cola European Partners Iberia,

national partners to collect 100% of its packaging by 2025

affi ms: “Our plans are to keep this as a long-term project,

in all Western Europe. That is where Circular Seas fits in

not just a one-time coastal cleaning. Circular Seas aims to make consumers aware that it is necessary to recycle and to carry out proper waste management”.

In order to achieve that commitment, the company is focusing on eco-innovation (leading the way in pioneering sustainable packaging, including renewable materials and

Circular Seas is part of Coca-Cola’s sustainability strategy

smart new ways to reduce packaging waste) and is working

This is Forward, whose first anniversary will take place in

to make sure that 100% of its packaging is recyclable or

November. It plans to act responsibly on six areas: drinks,

reusable and that at least 50% of the material it uses for PET

packaging, society, water, climate and supply chain. In

bottles comes from recycled plastic. Besides, Coca-Cola uses

the packaging area, Coca-Cola is working with local and

the reach of its brands to inspire everyone to recycle.

PROMO

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER WORLD

BEING SUSTAINABLE Text: EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

In the past few years it seems like humanity has been coming to an agreement on certain issues – namely that climate change is the most serious threat humanity is facing today. Meliá Hotels International has developed several lines of action over the years to tackle this issue and bring about change.

T

ourism companies are significant players

in the socioeconomic and environmental development of the destinations where they are based. Because of this, the responsibility these companies owe, the role they play and the influence they have over multiple interest groups are all key in driving sustainability. The Meliá group has

PHOTO: FUNDACIÓN PALMA AQUARIUM / TOMEU CANYELLAS MORAGUES

long recognised this. Today, with 390 hotels and resorts scattered across the globe, the group’s commitment to sustainability has only grown more fervent in light of recent circumstances.

This growing commitment arises from a human-centred strategic and operational plan that has become a global reference point. The company has been recognised as the third most sustainable hotel company in its sector on a global level, and the second in Europe, according to the ranking of the prestigious investment agency RobecoSAM. Ingrid de la Fuente—Global Technical Services Senior Manager for Meliá Hotels International—explains that to reach this strong level of commitment, ‘the company has an

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER WORLD

THE SIMPLE ACT OF MEASURING THE ELECTRICITY, WATER AND CO2 CONSUMPTION IN 95% OF THE GROUP’S HOTELS REVEALS ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR THE ACTION THE COMPANY IS UNDERTAKING.

The company has an environmental strategy that is made up of several courses of action. On the opposite page, the Meliá Serengeti, recognised for its sustainability and design, and named best resort of the year by Condé Nast Traveler Spain magazine.

environmental plan based around several lines of action.’

emissions. These are directly emitted from the hotel and

These lines respond to the decisions of the Climate Change

are usually due to the consumption of fuel for the boilers,

Committee, which analyses and detects possible risks facing

the kitchens, etc. Source 2: Indirect emissions. This refers

the group as a result of climate change. As a sustainable and

to the energy you consume in the hotel but is emitted

responsible enterprise – both economically and socially – the

somewhere else. For instance, electricity is generated

company is developing several lines of action. As de la Fuente

in a power station and its emissions arise there, but the

explains: ‘There are actions that not only involve energy

energy is consumed in the hotel. Source 3: This is made

saving and greater energy efficienc , but also the purchase

up of other kinds of indirect emissions, such as those that

of electricity from renewable sources, raising awareness

are emitted due to the products and services used in the

among all of our stakeholders, forming alliances with strategic

hotel, like the transport of employees, clients, waste, etc.’

partners, better waste management, biodiversity conservation in the various areas where we are present, the standardisation

In general, de la Fuente explains, a company ‘can reduce

of sustainable materials and products, sustainable transport,

the carbon footprint generated by Source 1 and Source 2

and even bearing in mind certain sustainability criteria, etc.,

with energy savings and greater efficienc , as well as the

when evaluating suppliers.’

generation or purchase of renewable energy. However, Source 3 is more complicated, as it depends in large part

CONTROLLING AND MEASURING

on your suppliers, clients, employees, etc. Although this

OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

is even more complicated in a large company,’ she notes,

To make it easier to understand, the engineer explains

‘it’s all about talking with clients and employees, and

in broad terms that the carbon footprint of a company,

spending time on awareness raising and training, as well

and a hotel, ‘arises from three sources: Source 1: Direct

as demanding suppliers change their behaviour to reduce

PHOTO: ANA NANCE

PHOTO: ANA NANCE

PHOTO: ANA NANCE

the carbon footprint of their products and services. This

ALIGNED WITH THE UN’S COMMITMENTS

can be done by minimising their transport or making

The simple act of measuring the electricity, water and CO2

it more sustainable, reducing the amount of energy

consumption in 95% of the group’s hotels reveals essential

and water they use in making their products, or using

information for the action the company is undertaking. An

sustainable materials and eliminating the use of plastic

in-depth knowledge of the hotels’ emissions or of any action

in their product and its packaging.’ We ask her what

that is rolled out enables an understanding of the next steps

the goal is for the future. ‘In the not-too-distant future,

to take to reduce and offset the impact on our environment.

we’d like to completely eliminate our carbon footprint.

What’s more, the end goal is to align these measures with the

To achieve this, we know we have to make a huge effort

UN’s recent targets for reducing CO2 emissions.

to not only reduce our emissions as much as possible, but also compensate for those emissions that we cannot

Among those targets is the Paris Agreement from the

eliminate by financing carbon projects that should offset

2015 COP21 summit. Alongside other matters, 195 countries

future emissions, such as reforestation projects.

agreed that the increase in global temperature should not rise

PHOTO: FUNDACIÓN PALMA AQUARIUM

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER WORLD

The Meliá group collaborates with the Palma Aquarium Foundation on a project which protects loggerhead sea turtle nesting across various countries.

2ºC above pre-industrial times (i.e. before the 19th century).

more ambitious target in declaring that we will work to

To achieve this, the countries agreed to donate a total of 100

meet the COP24 goal,’ states de la Fuente.

billion USD to developing countries from 2020 onwards and to reconvene to revise the strategy every five years

TECHNOLOGY-ASSISTED ENERGY EFFICIENCY To measure these variables, Meliá Hotels International

Another regulatory framework that the Meliá group

has just presented a project that will last five years –

is aligned with is that established by the COP24 summit,

CO2PERATE – in which the group has invested 4.5

which took place in Poland in December 2018. It was

million euros. This project involves the monitoring

agreed at the conference that the 2ºC limit should be

of 80% of the group’s electricity consumption and the

further reduced to 1.5ºC, since an increase in global

continuous measurement of energy and water use in

temperatures of 2ºC would continue to lead to tragic

116 hotels. The goal of the project is to detect areas for

consequences for the planet.

improvement and implement eco-efficient measures.

What’s more, the project also aims to infuse hotels’

In addition, there are other bodies that the Meliá group

air conditioning systems with AI, making these more

is working with that are even more rigorous in limiting

efficient thanks to the input of variables like the hotel’s

the reduction of their emissions to the internationally

occupancy and temperature.

recognised levels. ‘Right now we’ve managed to declare our goal to reduce our group’s emissions in line with the

‘Systems that consume the most energy are monitored

COP21 directive. Next, we’d like to set ourselves a slightly

and analysed in order to propose concrete energy-saving

of our electricity comes from renewable energy sources thanks to the purchase of green energy.

As for waste, the fight against plastic has already begun in the group’s hotels. ‘Our goal is to eliminate single-use plastics in all of our hotels so that by 2020 this will have totally disappeared from our group,’ she explains. In fact, ‘we’re aligned with a European directive in ensuring 50% measures. The project also includes an important step,

of our waste is recycled. In other words, only a maximum of

which is raising awareness among employees,’ explains de la

50% will consist of rejected waste that cannot be recycled,’

Fuente. What’s more, the project ‘will lead to a 32% reduction

she states. What’s more, the group is carrying out various

in CO2 emissions – equivalent to planting 3.3 million trees.’

circular economy projects for waste. In these initiatives, organic waste is carried off to a plant to generate compost.

On the other hand, she explains that, ‘we’re also ensuring

This is then distributed to local farmers to use in growing

that our hotels continue improving their facilities through

their fruit and vegetables, which are purchased by the

maintenance. For example, when it comes to lighting,

hotel – thus completing the circle.

hotels will only purchase LED or eco lights, and standardise equipment like minibars while always bearing in mind the

SAVING THE SEA TURTLE

energy consumption of these items.’

In keeping with the goal to eliminate plastic in their resorts and due to the impact of plastic waste on biodiversity conservation

IN THE SPOTLIGHT:

efforts, Meliá Hotels International has just signed on to

RENEWABLE ENERGY AND WASTE

another project with the Palma Aquarium Foundation. The

2020 will be a landmark year for the Meliá group. In line

mission is to save the loggerhead turtle, a sea turtle that is in

with the company’s environmental strategy, 70% of the

danger of extinction due to global temperature rises.

electricity consumed by the group will come from renewable sources. ‘Right now we’re developing this strategy in Spain,

The loggerhead sea turtle – declared an endangered

Italy, France, the UK and Germany. Currently, around 59%

species by the International Union for Conservation of

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER WORLD

THE COMPANY IS ROLLING OUT HABITAT-CLEANING INITIATIVES AS WELL AS TRAINING AND RAISING AWARENESS ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES. Nature (IUCN) – can be found at some of the destinations

in Cape Verde, so that they can gain greater experience.

where the Meliá group operates, such as Mexico.

The aim is to try to maximise the success of sea turtle

Specificall , the company has undertaken steps to protect

nesting in the Balearic Islands.

turtles’ nests in different beaches around the country.

It’s a matter of huge importance as global warming The Balearic archipelago is also a significant zone for

has forced sea turtles to move to cooler waters to make

loggerhead turtles to feed and grow, where there is also

their nests. For this reason, nesting on Spanish shores has

a large concentration of juvenile and sub-adult turtles.

doubled, and it’s likely this number will continue to grow.

That’s why Meliá Hotels International wished to join the protection, research and awareness-raising initiatives.

Single-use plastics will be removed from all of the company’s hotels by 2020.

In those areas where the group’s hotels are based, the company is rolling out habitat-cleaning initiatives as

The group will also support the Marine Fauna

well as training and raising awareness on environmental

Recovery Centre at the Palma Aquarium, which belongs

issues – above all among the youngest guests of their

to the Balearic Islands Government’s Department

hotels. The Foundation will also provide training for

of Environment, Agriculture and Fishing. At the

employees and group suppliers so they may participate

international level, Meliá Hotels International will

as well. ‘A huge number of children pass through our

finance the lodging and training of a biologist from the

Kids Clubs. We truly believe that children will lead this

Palma Aquarium Foundation in sea turtle nesting sites

change,’ de la Fuente concludes.

PHOTO: ISTOCK PHOTO

Palma Aquarium Foundation in order to collaborate on

Ilargi by Iratzoki Lizaso

A brand of LEDS C4

www.groklighting.com

INTERVIEW

How to understand the man through the art he has produced throughout his career

PHOTO: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART / EILEEN TRAVELL

ART

DANIEL WEISS Text: CARMEN REVIRIEGO. President of Callia. www.calliaart.com

T

he weight of an adult human brain can vary

between one and two kilograms, but the average brain is between 1.2 and 1.3 kilograms. When sitting in front of

Getting to know Daniel Weiss, the president and CEO of the Metropolitan Museum in New York, in order to assess the future of the world's largest museum, an institution with more than 2,250 employees.

Daniel Weiss, the president and CEO of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, you ask yourself how ‘the largest museum in the world’ can fit inside his head.

Well, it does. In order to better understand the future of the largest museum in the United States (that’s also an encyclopedic giant of epic proportions), it may be useful to get to know the man at its helm – an art historian whose career seems to have been destined to bring him to his current position. His passion: to understand humankind through the art it has produced.

Hudson, the Crusades can be likened to a river that

Daniel Weiss was born on the other side of the

united three of the largest monotheistic religions, whose

Hudson, in Newark, New Jersey – in fact, outside of

values curiously led them to this violent confrontation.

New York City. This ‘outside’ is a very special place – it

To start with, I’ve put this extraordinary brain in front

makes it impossible not to wonder if a river, even if it’s

of me to the test, asking him for a summary of what the

the Hudson, is something that divides or unites. Perhaps

museum means to him.

Weiss, who was born into a Jewish family without much religious tradition but with a strong interest in thought,

Carmen Reviriego: We are in the ‘Air Force One’ of

history and justice, asked himself this very question

museums. How would you describe it in figures?

whenever he crossed the river ’s surface or travelled

Daniel Weiss: We are very proud that the museum is one of

under its bed to visit – both as a child and an adult – his

the largest in the world. It has a surface area of almost 195,000

favourite museum: The Metropolitan. The Met.

square metres, which makes it larger than the Louvre. It

Weiss is a historian who has set his sights on art from

holds about two million pieces of art – 1.5 million of which

the Crusades. His first book, Art and Crusade in the

are on paper – and it is managed with a working budget of

Age of Saint Louis, looks at the connection between the

$320 million. We welcome more than seven million visitors

monarchies of the Old Testament and their descendants

from around the globe each year. We have about 2,250

who made up the French Capetian Dynasty. Like the

employees who work here every day – the largest volunteer

Daniel Weiss at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the MET). .

program in the world with 13,000 people, and we are New

are a global community, and I think the museum indeed

York’s main tourist attraction. The museum is a large and

offers this as an opportunity, as visitors can see thousands

complex institution with 17 curatorial departments, covering

of civilizations together under one roof. We have the

more than 5,000 years of art. We have works dating from

chance to transcend our present-day challenges. And it is

20,000 BC, yet most of them date from 3000 BC up until the

not easy. However, in recent years the number of visitors

present day. There is also a department exclusively dedicated

has increased from four to seven million, all of which come

to research and our own publishing house through which

from different places around the globe. This increase is

we publish around 30 books each year, all of which are

a result of people looking to find a community in which

distributed around the world. These figures describe some

they can interact with others with similar interests; they’ve

aspects of the institution.

found this with the MET.

CR: Is there any role that a museum can play in improving

CR: I must confess that I’m in love with the Metropolitan

situations of conflict in the world of the 21st centu y?

Museum. Here you can walk through a space which

DW: It's a question we have to ask. How can we help unite

seamlessly brings together all time periods of the history

society and not divide it? It is important to show that we

of art, which is something I can’t find elsewhere. One

PHOTO: NICHOLAS ALAN COPE / COURTESY OF THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART

Below (left), Merrymakers at Shrovetide (1616– 17) by Dutch painter, Frans Hals, and bequeathed to the Met by Benjamin Altman.

Below (right), an outfit y Yves Saint Laurent for Dior (1958). To the right, a work featured in the Play It Loud: Instruments of Rock & Roll exhibition.

INTERVIEW

PHOTO: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART / BEQUEST OF BENJAMIN ALTMAN, 1913

ART

PHOTO: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART IN NEW YORK

day the phone rang, I imagine, and they confi med your

was on par with the great art museums of Europe. They

appointment as president and CEO. Do you remember

had both the vision and the ambition, but had neither

how you felt?

the building nor the collection. And yet, in the period

DW: To an extent, my dreams came true. I first got

of time from 1870 until today, barely 140 years, they

to know this museum when I was at school and I fell

were able to create the gift to humanity that is the MET.

madly in love with it just like you did. Later on, I

Each and every one of the works of art at the museum

became an art historian and a professor. I would bring

has been received as a gift or donation. No other major

my students from Baltimore to New York to visit the

museum in the world has been created in this way, not

museum. I knew that one day I would work here, and

even the Prado, the Hermitage or the Louvre. And this is

I knew it would be a great privilege. I guess that the

a remarkable gift which stemmed from the generosity of

feeling I had was that of knowing that to a certain

the American people and the rest of the world, who all

extent, I would be lucky.

believed in this idea.

CR: What does the MET do that makes it so unique in

CR: And where did the initial funding for the museum

comparison to other museums around the world?

come from?

DW: I can think of two things that this museum does

DW: One of the strengths of the MET is the fact that

which makes it so special. One is the collection and the

the sources of its resources are very diverse. Donations

other is the diversity of the objects featured in it. On

make up half of the museum’s budget, while the City of

one hand, its offer of temporary expositions is much

New York takes care of 9% of it. The rest of the budget

greater than that of any other museum in the world,

comes from anyone willing to donate money. Of course,

since it ranges from ancient art to artists who are still

it should be added that we receive money from the

working today, such as Hockney. On the other hand,

restaurants at the museum and from the Met’s Friends

this diversity is also geographical. The entire planet is

Groups. The advantage of having so many sources of

represented in one unique museum.

income is that it gives the institution a lot of freedom in terms of its ability to work. We are not a government

CR: And the second aspect?

institution nor are we the property of various patrons.

DW: The way in which it was founded. The museum

We are a community which has the freedom to be

was founded in 1870 by an initiative of leaders within

flexible economically, enabling us to directly manage

the City of New York – a group of entrepreneurs who

all acquisitions, our exhibition schedule and everything

had the idea of creating a museum in New York that

else the museum is involved with.

ART

INTERVIEW

the best and healthiest financial model is one based on what I like to call a ‘co-investment model’.

CR: This focus on patronage makes me think of Louis IX of France and his patronage of the arts, which led him to construct one of history’s most beautiful pieces of art, Sainte-Chapelle, a building which you’ve studied in depth. In my opinion, patronage isn’t about the money, but rather, it represents a form of culture. The culture of giving which in turn, is a way to connect with society.

PHOTO: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART / EILEEN TRAVELL

DW: It is, and at all levels. People feel very committed if they are able to participate.

CR: What is the greatest challenge for a museum of the 21st century?

DW: For us, the greatest challenge is related to the opportunity of becoming the largest encyclopedic museum in the world. We have enormous collections and people who visit from around the globe. We live in a time in which society is changing and evolving very quickly, with technological advances that allow everyone to be connected with one another.

CR: That is the key to my curiosity. How does a medievalist envision the future? What do you believe an institution like the MET can offer a world filled with

"FOR US, THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IS RELATED TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF BECOMING THE LARGEST ENCYCLOPEDIC MUSEUM IN THE WORLD".

new technological capabilities?

DW: Interesting. There are advances being made in the world of virtual reality which present today’s sector with a dilemma that is currently being analyzed in depth. Will we still need to travel to Paris to see the ‘Mona Lisa’, or can we simply put on our virtual glasses and observe it in ways that are even better than seeing it in person? I think the precise challenge is to discover how we can adapt to best serve an audience that is increasingly becoming more and more immersed in new technologies.

No museum and, of course, no human being can be fully understood in just an interview. From his office, Weiss navigates the remodelling of the Rockefeller Wing with a budget of 70 million dollars. In this wing, the relationship between Egypt and Rome with Africa

CR: What do you believe is the ideal balance between

and the ties between Europe, Northern Africa and Sub-

public and private entities in terms of funding?

Saharan Africa will be explored. It will be difficult to avoid

DW: The greatest advantage of not having to depend on

the great African protagonist that is the Nile. The Nile is a

the government is obviously the freedom it provides.

river that unites everything. And it is what brought Louis

It is great that public funds support culture, but if this

IX, the holy king, his fortunes in the last Crusade. Include

happens in excess, there’s a risk that they will want to

it? Exclude it? This is something that must be asked to the

control the institution they are funding. I believe that

rivers themselves. Or to Weiss.

ART

An autumn in the footsteps of

Leonardo da Vinci Text: ROSA MARQUÉS

This year, the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci (1519-2019) has played a central role in Europe’s cultural initiatives.

This season, two unique exhibitions will give visitors the opportunity to take in the brilliance of this Renaissance genius. One will start in October at the Louvre Museum, the home of the Mona Lisa, whilst the other will take place at the Sforza Castle in Milan.

Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is owned by the French government and is on display at the Louvre.

T

he uniqueness of this Renaissance genius is so

which an enormous sum was paid to gain the rights to

widely appreciated that anyone who takes an interest in any

Isaacson’s book. DiCaprio says that destiny is to thank for

of da Vinci's fields of expertise will be able to capture audiences

the opportunity to take on such an important role. After

and create a timeless and engaging story about him.

all, his mother was inspired to name him after the Italian intellectual when she felt him kicking while looking at

Any investment, no matter how large, into depicting da

one of da Vinci’s works in the Uffizi Galle y in Florence.

Vinci’s life is sure to meet with success. This is exemplified everywhere from Dan Brown’s internationally successful

What’s more, even 500 years after his death, the Italian

esoteric thriller, The Da Vinci Code, and Walter Isaacson’s

genius continues to inspire many interesting exhibitions.

recent biography on the Italian genius, to the new film,

However, this shouldn’t come as a surprise, as da Vinci was

starring Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio, for

a painter, anatomist, architect, paleontologist, artist, botanist,

PHOTO: D.R.

PHOTO: D.R.

ART

Above, the outside of the Louvre. On the right, a room at the Meliá Colbert overlooking the Notre Dame; views of the Notre Dame from the same hotel; and a traditional French breakfast served at the Meliá.

scientist, writer, sculptor, philosopher, engineer, inventor,

are Vincent Delieuvin from the Department of Paintings,

musician, poet and city planner. Also, as indicated by his

and Louis Frank, from the Department of Prints and

latest biographies, he was ‘an illegitimate child, homosexual,

Drawings. Although the exact number of works that will be

vegetarian, left-handed, easily distracted, and occasionally

showcased in this four-month exhibition is still unknown,

heretical’. He left behind numerous notebooks filled with his

the Louvre is expecting to receive loans from Italy and

observations, sketches, jokes, maps, formulas and more.

other countries to round out the five-painting da Vinci collection that the museum already has. In other words,

The British Library in London is home to one of the

this Leonardo da Vinci exhibition will host one third of all

most recent exhibitions on Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors

of the existing works that are attributed to him, and will

will be captivated as they take in the display of the artist’s

include the Mona Lisa, Saint John the Baptist, and La Belle

notes and drawings, which show motion as ‘the cause

Ferronnière.

of all life’. For the first time in the UK, the exhibition will display the British Library’s Codex Arundel, alongside the

The exhibit was moved to autumn so it would not fall

Codex Forster from the Victoria and Albert Museum, and

on the exact 500th anniversary of da Vinci’s death in May.

a selection of sheets from the Codex Leicester. The Codex

This has allowed other museums to host events honouring

Leicester will be shown in the UK for the first time since it

the world-renowned quintessential Renaissance man.

was purchased by Bill Gates for a large sum in an auction.

As it would be expected, the genius’s native Italy holds

WHAT YOU WILL SEE IN THE LOUVRE

some of his most treasured works. These include The Last

Perhaps the most impactful exhibition this autumn will be

Supper in Milan and other paintings in the Uffizi Gallery

in the Louvre, which is not far from Amboise, the French

in Florence. Meanwhile, the Saint Jerome is held at the

town where da Vinci died. The Louvre holds the largest

Vatican. Furthermore, the Sforza Castle in Milan will host

selection of the Florentine genius’s work and is the home

an exhibition on da Vinci until 12 January 2020. Under the

to the iconic Mona Lisa.

patronage of Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan (known as The Moor), da Vinci created his first great works. Among

The exhibition will take place in Hall Napoléon, which is situated just beneath the famous pyramid. Its organisers

them were luxurious frescos that adorned various rooms of the Duke’s castle (https://milanocastello.it/).

IT’S ALWAYS A GOOD TIME TO GO TO PARIS Paris is one of the most visited destinations in the world. A world cultural capital city, a first-class hub of international fashion and a world benchmark of haute cuisine, over 99 million travellers choose to visit Paris every year (and this figure is on the rise). Few cities offer the staggering number of 134 museums, without forgetting the many sporting events that take place here, or the more than 160,000 professionals who attend its international fairs each year. In order to cater to such a wide range of visitors, the Meliá Group has six hotels in Paris: the Meliá Paris Tour Eiffel is perfect for exclusive meetings, and has luxurious rooms overlooking the Eiffel Tower. The Meliá Champs Elysées hotel, with a charming garden in the heart of Paris, stands out for it contemporary, elegant and spacious accommodation. In turn, the Meliá Colbert is one of the city’s most romantic and exclusive hotels. From its rooms, you can see the cathedral of Notre Dame. The Meliá Vendôme hotel, on the iconic Rue Coco Chanel, close to the Louvre, the Opéra and the Tuileries, is a wonderful haven for a cultural visit. More modern, urban and located in a splendid 18th-century building, the Tryp Paris Opéra offers a fantastic location very close to the Folies Bergère and Galeries Lafayette. Lastly, although not part of the historical city but in the district of La Defènse, the Meliá La Defènse is less than 5 kilometres from the Grande Arche, the Arc de Triomphe and the Palais des Congrès, and is perfect for meetings and business visits (melia.com).

SWEET & EXOTIC

A view of the resort facing the gorgeous Cable Beach in Nassau.

An

AQUATIC HOLIDAY

at the Meliรก Nassau Beach At the spectacular Cable Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, this all-inclusive resort is the perfect base for those seeking turquoise waters and heavenly beaches to get some rest before heading home.

Text: JUAN LUIS GUILLร N

SWEET & EXOTIC

Y

ou don’t need many excuses to go and

Arrival at the Meliá Nassau Beach is an immersion in an

escape to the Bahamas. Just the sound of the name relaxes

aquatic holiday within itself, with a decor that emulates the

you. You can almost make out its 700 islands and cays

hues of the ocean and a soundtrack of waves, seagulls and

from the coast of Florida, while Nassau, its capital, can be

footsteps on the sand – a genuine paradise.

reached in three hours from its namesake county on the outskirts of New York City.

From the start, the whole family enjoyed the idea of spending a week in the water – the little ones in the sea,

However, after spending some time roaming the Big Apple, the best argument to get my family on board for a

enjoying various activities, and the grown-ups at one of the three pools, or getting a drink at the pool bar.

few days at this resort is that the Meliá Nassau Beach is the only all-inclusive and kid-friendly resort in the Bahamas –

THE LEVEL, A BOUTIQUE HOTEL WITHIN A HOTEL

this oasis of peace sits along a white-sand beach over 300

To begin with, we get a truly personalised concierge service

metres long and offers activities specifically geared towards

at The Level, a distinctive element of Meliá in the Bahamas;

children. So, everyone’s happy.

it’s a hotel within the hotel, with huge, high-ceiling rooms with sea views, a private beach area and every service

Time flies on the plane, as we plan our last days of holiday

imaginable both on and off the premises.

in one of Nassau’s most emblematic spots. And the tenminute transfer to the resort passes dreamily whilst we admire the turquoise-blue Atlantic.

Before long, we’ve already enjoyed our first cocktail with a light snack, and the children have thrown themselves

Above, Caribbean cocktails take centre stage at the O'Grille Restaurant; on the left, the Kids’ Club; on the opposite page, one of "The Level" rooms.

SWEET & EXOTIC

manager, Pablo Cogolludo, a man as unique and interesting

IN THE KIDS & CO. PLAYGROUND, THE CHILDREN ENJOY VARIOUS SUPERVISED ACTIVITIES – EDUCATIONAL FUN, FILMS, VIDEO GAMES AND MORE –.

as the resort he runs.

Pablo has forged his career between the Ritz Carlton in Washington D.C. and New Orleans, and has worldwide responsibility for food and beverages within the Meliá group.

Few understand American tastes, or the great gastronomic offering of the hotel group, like he does.

Over the next few days we follow the hotel’s roadmap, alternating between breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as opting for ‘island chic’, ‘resort casual’ or ‘beach wear’ in restaurants and bars with various cuisines and styles.

The hotel has several pools for children by the sea – some are heated while some have waterfalls.

headlong into their holiday on the sea: from the pool to the sea, from kayak to Zayak, and from the water hammock to

DIVING INTO GASTRONOMY

the water mat, which fits almost eve yone.

Our gastronomic tour of the Meliá Nassau Beach passes through an a la carte breakfast at O’Grille, seas of pasta

Meliá Nassau Beach also offers a programme of activities

at Aqua, coriander tacos and the fusion of Peruvian and

designed for all ages. In the Kids & Co. playground, the

Japanese cuisine at Nikkei, the conch fritters of EstaVida and

children enjoy various supervised activities – educational

the exceptional steaks of Black Angus.

fun, films, video games and more – all the way into the evening, while we parents finally get to enjoy our firs romantic dinner alone.

As if that weren’t enough, to this fine culinary offering we must add the Caribbean and the Bahamian Nights, where a buffet of local dishes surrounds the pool. The hotel is fille

To find our way around the huge variety of food on offer at the resort, we let ourselves be guided by the hotel’s

with live music and you’ll also see the costumes, drums and traditional dances of the Caribbean Junkanoo.

Pictured above is the Cilantro Mexican restaurant – one of the many international dining options available; on the left, images of options at the Spanishstyle tapas restaurant, Estavida; PeruvianJapanese fusion dishes from Nikkei.

SWEET & EXOTIC

I DREAM OF THE SEA WITH MY HEAD RESTING ON A CAREFULLY SELECTED PILLOW FROM THE AROMATHERAPY MENU. After the party and the delicacies, we get a well-deserved

There’s one more getaway for the grown-ups during

rest under a feather duvet. I dream of the sea with my

our stay in the Bahamas: a visit to the largest casino in the

head resting on a carefully selected pillow from the

Caribbean, the Baha Mar resort, which is within walking

aromatherapy menu.

distance of the hotel.

While the sun brightens up the ocean, as well as our

In just a few days at the Melia Nassau Beach, our dream

room, the family gets ready to hop on a speedboat and

comes true: the children have almost turned into amphibians

explore Balmoral Island. On this small island in front of the

after so many hours in the water and they barely remember

resort – for the little ones, reminiscent of somewhere pirates

who their parents are. The grown-ups have forgotten the

and buccaneers would be found – we spend the morning

work that awaits them a few nautical miles away, spellbound

wandering the beaches and swimming with dolphins.

by the view of turquoise sea from their room’s terrace.

Spend the day on the beach soaking up the sun and taking a dip in the sea. When it’s time to eat, pass by The Market Place (pictured above) and enjoy an international buffet on the terrace.

IN THE CITY

Meliรก Vienna at the Danube

TOWER

Renowned architect Dominique Perrault had a unique location in mind when he designed the tallest skyscraper in Austria: a state-of-the-art vantage point on the banks of a mythical river. From its open doors lies the city of Vienna, a city that offers a Grand Tour beginning with its roots as imperial capital until its current state of full modernity.

This is as true for its history as it is for its gastronomy, design and art. Welcome to the Austrian capital.

Text: ASUN CEDENA

Shows views from the 57 Restaurant.

IN THE CITY

T

he DC Tower is the roof of Austria. The

country’s tallest skyscraper can be found in the financial district of Donau City (Danube City), just over five minutes on the underground from the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Its rippling facade is made of faceted glass that evokes the tides of the Danube. The location is unrivalled, sitting next to one of the four European headquarters of the UN and on the banks of the Danube. At its doorstep you’ll find the so-called Danube Island (Donauinsel in German), which is one of Europe’s best urban parks that is almost unknown to travellers. This artificial island is 21 kilometres long and manages to cut the riverbed into two as it flows through the Austrian capital. It’s a green space that is full of river beaches and trails that are ideal for runners and cyclists, and it even has areas that are suitable for barbecues.

The Meliá Vienna is in a prime location between the 4th

To the right is the 214 square-metre Presidential Suite; a Family Suite room with views, as well as influences from the Museumsquartier neighbourhood (on the other page).

and 15th floors of the DC Tower. “This incredible, modern building provides our guests with astonishing views of the heart of Europe. You can enjoy hypnotic sunrises and sunsets from our 57 Restaurant & Lounge, which is situated on the 57th and 58th floors and stands tall at 220 metres. When you add 360º views into the equation, it turns into a quintessential landmark in the beautiful city of Vienna. Let’s not forget that our 253 exquisitely designed modern rooms also offer unbeatable views of the Danube”, says Bastian Becker, director of The Meliá Vienna. The hotel also boasts a 24-hour fitness centre equipped with brand new machines, a meeting room,

society as Tango in Argentina or Fado in Portugal. The

access to private secretarial and translation services,

Philharmonic New Year's Concert in the Golden Hall of

external parking, airport shuttle and babysitting.

Musikverein takes place in the morning of 1 January. The event attracts an average of 50 million viewers worldwide

Just across the riverbank is the breathtaking St. Francis

and the beautiful Blue Danube Waltz is always played

of Assisi Church. A few steps further is The Prater, another

without fail just before the Director’s New Year’s greeting.

park on the banks of the Danube with a giant Ferris wheel

Interestingly, in a city so devoted to its river, you can find

immortalised by Orson Welles just 70 years ago in the film

several indoor swimming pools like Amalienbad that are

The Third Man. There is a whole museum dedicated to

authentic works of art.

the film, which has a private collection belonging to two enthusiasts who managed to amass up to 2,300 original

“In Autumn, Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities

objects. The end of the film was shot in the great Vienna

in Europe. It reminds me of an Indian Summer with

Central Cemetery in which classical music legends such

trees – so alive with their red and yellow colouring – that

as Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms and Johan Strauss are

constantly invite you to walk through the numerous

laid to rest. In Vienna, classical music is as engrained into

parks such as Stadtpark in the city centre, the more

PHOTO: UDO TITZ

Art lovers will find some of the best museums in the world

ART LOVERS WILL FIND SOME OF THE WORLD’S BEST MUSEUMS IN VIENNA.

in Vienna, like the Belvedere – a baroque palace-complex which houses the largest collection of works by Gustav Klimt, as well as the Albertina Museum and the Kunsthistorisches Museum of Vienna, which hosts the inexhaustible Habsburg treasures. There are even entire neighbourhoods that are dedicated to art. The Museumsquartier is a small neighbourhood that can be found in the heart of the city.

It’s home to sophisticated art centres such as the Leopold Museum — a temple for fans of the Expressionist artist Egon

hidden Türkenschanzpark and the stunning Schönbrunn

Schiele — along with the Kunsthalle Wien and the Mumok.

Palace gardens”, says Bastian Becker. He adds: “Autumn

For its part, the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK), which is

is also an ideal time to enjoy the glorious Viennese wines

on the famous Ringstrasse, has been devoted to design and

in the countless classic wineries and rustic taverns that

to the relationship between art and the everyday since 1871.

are just a few steps from the historic centre”.

Recently, it’s also become home to one of the most avant-

IN THE CITY

To the right, the 57 Restaurant, where the food is impeccable and the views are spectacular.

Above is the Flower Bar – the perfect place for cocktails.

PHOTO: A.G.E.

150 YEARS OF THE OPERA HOUSE ON THE RING Vienna

The great operatic temple of Old Europe is celebrating its birthday. Originally known as the Vienna Court Opera, the Vienna State Opera officially opened in 1869 with a performance of Mozart’s Don Giovanni. The inauguration was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi. To celebrate its birthday, an official ceremony has been organised with nine premieres and 311 functions including opera, ballet, recitals and concerts on the stage, which is graced by the best performers every year.

The programme of 50 operas includes six new productions, one of which is the world premiere of Die Weiden (The Willows), a work commissioned by the opera that is loosely based on the novel Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad.

The Vienna State Opera is a true institution in Austria. Just last season, it received more than 600,000 visitors with an average daily occupancy of 98%. You can also explore it during guided tours: 40-minute-long walks into the depths of the temple that are even available in Spanish (find out more on the official website, wiener-staatsoper.at/en). Also taking place during the month of December is a live-broadcasted performance of opera and ballet on a 50-square-metre screen in the Herbert von Karajan Square, just in front of the opera building.

IN THE CITY

PHOTO: D.R. / SKOPIK & LOHN

SKOPIK & LOHN – CONTEMPORARY VIENNESE GASTRONOMY AT ITS FINEST.

There’s no better place to try Austrian cuisine than at Skopik & Lohn.

garde restaurants in the Austrian capital, the Salonplafond,

Austria. During the Second World War, the authorities built

an innovative interpretation of a traditional Viennese tavern

two gigantic concrete cylinders in the middle of the park in

designed by architect Michael Embacher.

order to defend against the allied bombings. These bunkers still stand today.

Another more contemporary representative of Viennese gastronomy is the Skopik & Lohn, which has a ceiling that has

The tallest building in Austria is not far from the flora

been splattered with black paint by artist Otto Zitko. Enjoy

landscapes of the Augarten. The 57 Restaurant is situated on

French-inspired cuisine that fits perfectly with its location

the top floor of the DC Tower, giving you the opportunity

next to the Augarten in the second district, Leopoldstadt:

to dine with Vienna and the Danube at your feet. At 220

Vienna’s new modern and cool neighbourhood. The

metres tall, the venue promises a carefully crafted menu of

Augarten is another fabulous public park that measures 52

signature Meliá cocktails that are to be enjoyed in a relaxed

hectares. It boasts the oldest baroque gardens in Vienna and

atmosphere. It’s an ideal way to end the day, sitting in the

is also home to the Porcelain Museum and the Filmarchiv

midst of the Vienna sky.

WHAT’S THE POWER OF YOUR FUTURE? ENDESA, COMMITED WITH THE PROGRESS AND THE SUSTAINABILITY. Each one of us has an energy that drives us to move forward and build the future we want.

And every one of us today, can rely on sustainable energy to do it. Whatever your power is, believe in it.

What’s your power?

endesa.com

NEW DESTINATION

SAÏDIA,

the Moroccan coast’s best-kept secret Text: LIDIA GONZALEZ

Its beaches of fine sand and clear water could ell be at home in a Caribbean island. In this spectacular corner of Morocco, where the sunsets merge the sea and the sky, time seems to stand still in the streets of the medina, and the pace of life is marked by the rolling waves. Whether with family, friends or your partner, Saïdia is always a good choice.

Enjoy a cool refreshment from Le Maris Bar while relaxing poolside at the MeliĂĄ SaĂŻdia Beach.

NEW DESTINATION

T

he most romantic visitors have christened

it the ‘Blue Pearl’; those who have succumbed to the spell of its warm, crystal-clear, turquoise waters – an idyllic setting worthy of one of those attractive summer ads.

These travellers call this beautiful place the ‘Moroccan Caribbean’. And there is no shortage of reasons why.

Blessed by the beauty of the Mediterranean and around 14 kilometres of golden beaches, Saïdia, which borders Algeria, has earned its crown as one of the most complete Morocco holiday destinations.

The town, located in the province of Oujda, was built by the Arabs in the 16th century. It hasn’t stopped growing since fact lies in its position as one of the most popular destinations in the country after Marrakech, Fez and Casablanca.

The reason for its success, apart from its incredible surroundings, is that it has one of North Africa’s most important resorts: Med-Saïdia. Beyond its idyllic beaches, this fishing village has many attractions. One of the most unmissable is the old town, which is brimming with history and made up of the narrow streets that are typical of Moroccan medinas. It’s worth getting lost in the town’s corners, enjoying some tea in one of the squares or, if it is Sunday, visiting the iconic outdoor Souk market nearby where you'll end up haggling for some of their artisan ware. Of course, you can’t forget the real architectural jewel: the Alcazaba, a 19th-century fortress built under the rule of Sultan Hassan I at the mouth of the river Uadi Kiss.

PERFUMED WITH THE SALTY BREEZE From left to right and top to bottom: a door in the Saïdia medina; the beach; one of the rooms at Meliá Saïdia Beach; and Zellij Moroccan Restaurant.

If there is a real star in Saïdia, it is undoubtedly the sea. No one is able to resist the sandy beaches and hypnotic blue waters of this hidden Moroccan treasure.

But if the overriding calm that characterises this small seaside paradise doesn’t seduce you, Saïdia is also a mecca for water sports. Riding a surfboard, going water skiing, giving diving a try or exploring the area by boat are just some of the activities offered by this coastal city. Need some directions?

The port for sporting

activity – where you can even rent your own boat – is called Saïdia Marina, located within the Med-Saïdia

PHOTO: CORDON PRESS

then, reaching a frenetic pace in recent years. Proof of this

PHOTO: D.R. / ONMT

NEW DESTINATION

THE TASTE OF SAÏDIA Saïdia is also known for its gastronomy that gives off the most enticing aromas and cuddles the palate with its spicy flavours. Lamb tagine with apricots – one of this recipe’s many variants – and rfissa, a dish that is present in all Moroccan celebrations. It is made with chicken and lentils, placed on a thinly layered pastry base that is seasoned with a spice mix called ras el hanout. These are some of the delights that will have you licking your fingers – literally in this case, as rfissa is traditionally eaten by hand. Other equally succulent and typical Moroccan dishes are couscous, chicken pastilla and almonds. The breakfasts with a mint-tea aroma, the delicious seafood delicacies, the anaesthetising fruity scent that pervades the medina’s markets and the cinnamon-flavoured sweets will be sure to cement this corner of Morocco in your memory.

tourist complex, just two kilometres from the town. ‘A

with friends or for a family holiday. And if you intend

wonderful climate, a wide range of activities and an

to experience Saïdia with your partner, there is nothing

active role in a development plan for the region. These

more romantic than seeing the sunset from La Cornisa,

were the reasons Meliá Hotels International chose this

its lively promenade. We can vouch for that.

Moroccan maritime enclave as the site for three new hotels,’ says Sebastien Boué, General Manager of the

SAÏDIA FROM HOLE TO HOLE

Meliá Saïdia Beach All Inclusive Resort, the Meliá Saïdia

Never mind simply getting the ball out of the bunker,

Garden Golf Resort and the Meliá Saïdia Residences.

dodging all the obstacles here (including streams) is a

Leaving yourself at the mercy of the waves seems like

challenge even for the experts. Either way, Saïdia is the

an irresistible plan, and its perfect both for a getaway

ideal place to improve your swing, according to Sebastien Boué. This destination has one of the best golf courses in Morocco, featuring 18 holes and located just minutes from the three magnificent types of accommodation Meliá Hotels International owns in the area. Should we take a look at all of them?

THE MELIÁ SAÏDIA BEACH ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT: A FAMILY BREAK Just 50 kilometres from the Oujda airport, this five star hotel has been welcoming guests since last March.

This hotel shows that it’s possible for all-inclusive luxury to exist under one roof. As its name suggests, the Meliá Saïdia Beach All Inclusive Resort is perched on the beachfront, near the golf course and marina shopping area. While its modern design is inspired by Mediterranean villas, you can see Moroccan aesthetics in its details. Guests can choose between different spacious rooms and suites, complete with a terrace and inspiring views. The pools, which are surrounded by gardens, will quickly become the favourite space of the family’s smallest members. There is also a gym, a spa and a broad gastronomic offering, including Mediterranean, Moroccan, and Asian cuisine, among others. It has all the hallmarks of an unforgettable family holiday.

THE MELIÁ SAÏDIA GARDEN GOLF RESORT: THE TEMPLE OF BLEISURE Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, or looking for an elegant bedroom or a suite with a terrace, this is the hotel you are searching for. Also boasting fiv stars, the Meliá Saïdia Garden Golf Resort borders one of the 18-hole golf courses that are part of the Saïdia tourist complex. The comfortable and cosy rooms will help guests fall into a deep sleep after a day of sport, work or lounging on the beach. And the weapon that will lull you to sleep is simple decoration in soft colours, large windows that allow light in and some relaxing views of the sea or gardens that surround this Mediterraneanstyle hotel. There is no better way to spend the day than

On the left, the Atlas Buffet-Restaurant & Terrace at the Meliá Saïdia Garden Beach, with rooms looking out onto the golf course or the gardens.

The room featured on the next page overlooks the pool (below).

NEW DESTINATION

The terrace overlooking the golf course at Saïdia Golf.

At the Meliá Saïdia Residences (below), guests enjoy an allinclusive gastronomic offering, with meals ranging from Mediterranean cuisine to the finest meats

by following swings in the green with refreshing dips in the pool or on the beach, which is located just 200 metres away. After this, it’s time to recharge your batteries by trying some of the superb local dishes (or whatever you like) at any of the hotel’s restaurants. And as for the bars?

You can enjoy signature cocktails accompanied by music to put the finishing touch on a wonderful stay in this Moroccan seaside town.

THE MELIÁ SAÏDIA RESIDENCES: YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME The new resort in Saïdia is fully equipped with apartments that seek to provide an intimate guest experience that is completely impossible not to fall in love with. These elegant residencies come with an all-inclusive option or, on the contrary, complete independence. The sleek design and exceptional setting, with the sea only 10 meters away, will make you not want to go home.

ARCHITECTURE

The rebirth of

TORRE GALFA Text: MARISA SANTAMARÍA

With its spectacular views of the city’s skyline, INNSIDE Milano Torre Galfa hotel is an emblematic staple of Milan’s signature architecture..

One of Milan’s legendary skyscrapers, the Torre Galfa, is being renovated. It is set to become a new city landmark and house the new INNSiDE Milano Torre Galfa hotel.

ARCHITECTURE

T 1. One of the hotel’s twin rooms with city views. In total, the hotel has 145 rooms.

2. A glimpse of one of the hotel’s bathrooms.

3. The hotel’s spacious and bright lobby.

4. In this restaurant, Italian gastronomy takes centre stage.

5. The Galfa Tower, designed by Melchiorre Bega in 1956.

6. Start your day with a warm cup of coffee.

7. ‘The Upside Down Mushroom Room’ by artist Carsten Höller in The Fondazione Prada Torre – a part of the Atlas permanent collection.

8. ‘Bosco Verticale’ (Vertical Forest) designed by Stefano Boeri – a cutting-edge example of a sustainable residential building.

9. ‘The Solar Tree’ by Artemide in Piazza Gae Aulenti.

he Torre Galfa was designed by top architect

The Galfa Tower was his dream come true: ‘I always

Melchiorre Bega in 1956 to mirror the modernity and high-

dreamt of building in steel. Beyond creating more solid

level technology of the era, and is located opposite Gio

structures, it has a fascinating, natural elegance.’ Steel and

Ponti’s Torre Pirelli. Ponti said of the Torre Galfa: ‘Its beauty

glass instead of cement: that was the basis of his project.

is immediately understood and loved as it integrates technical forms, aesthetics, and significant truth.’ And he’s

During the successive crises towards the end of the 20th

right, as always: truth pervades every millimetre of the

century, the building was gradually abandoned. It has now

building’s structure and beauty.

been renovated as private living quarters and hotel (the INNSiDE Milano Torre Galfa). Alejandro Thovar, Project

Melchiorre Bega was an architect and designer who

Manager at Meliá Hotels International, is responsible for

trained as a traditional, artisanal craftsman. One of his firs

ensuring that the INNSiDE by Meliá's brand standards

jobs was in furniture restoration, where the pursuit of the

are met. Thovar highlights ‘the beauty and slenderness of

exquisite through the imperfection of manual labor forged

the tower’, which he says is due to its ‘striking curtain-wall

his character and unique outlook.

façade alongside a brilliant steel and glass emergency staircase – which can be seen at the rear of the building – giving the

In addition to his work as an architect, he designed

tower an elegant, modern feel that’s truly authentic’.

interiors and furniture, combining all his artistic values in what was a clearly defined, innovative style, very much

Thovar adds that this top-of-the-line project in urban

ahead of his time. He lives on in our memory through the

architecture ‘shows off all of INNSiDE’s latest features,

images preserved in archives and publications of the era.

offering INNSiDERS access to multi-functional open spaces

He’s also present in all the commercial spaces designed

where they can to enjoy an informal stay whilst soaking in

by him: from the Motta Café (which is still in the Piazza

the city like a local’.

del Duomo) to the Perugina confectionary store to the Galtrucco fabric shop. There, he controlled ‘the whole

Like the tower itself, the Meliá Group was created

experience of being in a space’ – control which was also

in 1956, and continues to guarantee functionality and

reflected in his management of Domus magazine, where

sophistication across its various hotel brands. The hotel

he was involved with everything down to the last detail.

was created specifically to improve people’s experience when visiting the city for business, without forgetting the importance of pleasure – which is especially crucial considering Milan’s rich cultural and culinary scene. The panoramic views offered by the glass structure are among the main attractions of the hotel’s rooms and common

THE HOTEL WAS CREATED SPECIFICALLY TO IMPROVE PEOPLE’S EXPERIENCE WHEN VISITING THE CITY.

spaces. There are 145 rooms in total, split into the categories INNSiDE, Studio and Loft, 30 of which have a spectacular, unobstructed 180-degree view.

AN IMPECCABLE RESTORATION Architectural studio BG&K Associati was responsible for the restoration, led by Maurice Kanah. His work has revolved around maintaining utmost respect for the original building, treating it like a work of art, and reconstructing the damaged structure through technology and with contemporary materials. ‘The Galfa is a landmark that forms one of the most distinctive skylines in the city,

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THE REVIVAL OF MILAN The new ‘Made in Italy’ golden age

9

PHOTO: A.G.E.

8

PHOTO: A.G.E.

7

PHOTO: A.G.E.

INNSiDE Milano Torre Galfa hotel is yet another major focal point in Milan’s unstoppable wave of developments, ongoing projects and forward momentum. Institutions, businesses, corporations, figures from the world of design and architecture: everything is revolving around Milan once again, returning to the ‘Made in Italy’ golden age. We have seen the emergence of Stefano Boeri’s Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) in Porta Nuova; Petra Blaisse’s Biblioteca degli Alberi (Library of Trees); the new Prada and Feltrinelli foundations; and the reactivation of the Triennale, among other things.

Now — the latest in this long line of developments — Rem Koolhaas and his firm OMA will be renovating the Scalo Farini railways over the coming years, pushing the revival of this city’s masterplan even further.

ARCHITECTURE

THE PROJECT WAS DEVELOPED BY THE ARCHITECT MAURICE KANAH AND ASAH, ADAPTING THE INNSIDE BY MELIÁ BRAND TO CUTTING-EDGE MILANESE STYLE. IT IS A MAJOR PROJECT THAT WILL BE HUGELY VALUABLE TO INNSIDE. The entrance to Meliá’s Torre Galfa, located at the corner of Via Luigi Galvani and Via Gustavo Fara.

a blend of new architectural work and this classic design,

agency), adapting the INNSiDE brand to cutting-edge

combining traditional Milanese architecture and the

Milanese style. It is a major project that will be hugely

transparency and consistency Bega dreamt of,’ Kanah

valuable to INNSiDE.’

recently explained.

The hotel has an explosive cultural programme in store, As a specialist in hotel architecture and development,

featuring regular art exhibitions that will highlight the

Alvaro Sans has collaborated on this hotel project. He has

creativity of Italian artists who convey the soul of Milan

also previously worked on the ME Meliá II Duca, originally

through their work.

designed by another great Milanese master, Aldo Rossi.

Like Kanah, Sans mentions taking Melchiorre Bega’s existing building and classic vision into account:

This same soul is also present in the hotel’s culinary offerings. Set to be the highest in the city, ‘Restaurante Roof Top Terrace’ will be located on the 29th and 30th floors. And

‘Remodelling this building while maintaining and

what’s more, F&B Concept will serve simple dishes based

restoring the facade to how it once was has been quite

on traditional Italian cooking – with an innovative twist.

the challenge. Especially since we are adapting it to

In line with the Milanese way, the restaurant offers light

new requirements. The project was developed by the

lunches with salads, homemade pasta and the best Italian

architect Maurice Kanah and ASAH (Sans’ architectural

cold meats and cheeses.

Explore the collection at mebymelia.com

YOUR CULTURAL CONNECTION

C A BO I BI Z A MADRID MIL AN LO N D O N S I TG ES C O M I N G S O O N : D U B A I D O H A B A R C ELO N A M A LTA

TRENDY

The art of

SPANISH LIVING Text: EDITORIAL STAFF

The exclusive Gran Meliรก hotels are bringing a series of experiences to fi e continents, led by renowned experts in breathtaking spaces.The objective is to share the most deeply rooted and delectable Spanish customs and traditions.The Art of Spanish Living is a practical course that has already started in Seville, Majorca and Madrid.

Ready to learn its fi st three lessons?

TRENDY

LESSON 1: NIGHT (NOCHE)

WHY? Night-time is the perfect chance to let go, be free and feel everything more intensely. Inspiration awakens at night – you feel a special magic when you let yourself go. Living for the nightlife and the fiesta usually leads you out onto the streets. It requires the know-how of being in many different environments with plenty of elegance and the ability to ooze self-confidence. In the world of flamenco the night was that special moment when the magical spirit awoke, when the soul and passion of flamenco really came to life. That's when the best flamenco was enjoyed and studied, when teachers let their hair down and the music simply flowed from their hearts

THE HOTEL-SETTING: Hotel Colón, Seville.

A MAGICAL MOMENT: Tomatito (guitarist and lifetime friend of the legendary flamenco singer, Camarón de la Isla) held a concert out on the marvellous terrace of the Presidential Suite which offers unbeatable views of Seville. This was the first in a series of flamenco concerts held at the hotel.

THE EXPERTS: Also taking part in several of these ‘lessons’ dedicated to the Night at the ‘Sala Majestic’ were singersongwriter Javier Ruibal, winner of the Medal of Andalusia in 2007 and the National Award for Current Music in 2017, along with the flamenco singer María Luisa Ramírez, also known as ‘Maui’, and María Peláe, the winner of the Andalusian Youth Institute’s Songwriting Competition.

On the left, Tomatito, a famous flamenco guitarist, and the Grand Penthouse Terrace.

Hotel Colรณn in Seville offers views of the Giralda and the Seville Cathedral. A photo taken during a concert.

TRENDY

LESSON 2: CRAFTSMANSHIP (ARTESANÍA)

WHY? Craftsmanship is the art of creating intricate objects by hand. It’s that perfection and detail that comes from the things made from the heart. It’s the ability to keep the fir of ancient traditions burning through an object or a recipe.

THE HOTEL-SETTING: Hotel de Mar, Majorca.

A MAGICAL MOMENT: Every night of the summer, in a stylish setting right on the shore of the Mediterranean, chef Marga Coll displays her love for Majorcan cuisine in the romantic Arrels Restaurant. Her knowledge and admiration for the island’s cuisine has materialised into a seasonal, seven-course menu. It consists of products that come from the land, from Coll’s livestock pantry and from the sea – these ingredients shine on every plate, just as much, or more so than the stars.

THE EXPERTS: Chef Marga Coll’s food is served on handmade dishes created by artist, designer and naturelover, Madrid’s own Andrea Zarraluqui, who designed them for the occasion. The colour, love and delicacy that she puts into each piece of porcelain makes them entirely unique. This devotion has led her to become the most famous porcelain-ware designer in Spain.

On the opposite page, a bright spot to unwind at Hotel de Mar in Majorca.

Above, Marga Coll, a renowned chef and the artist and designer Andrea Zarraluqui painting her handmade dishes.

TRENDY

LESSON 3: SOBREMESA

WHY? The Sobremesa, or post-meal conversation is the best time for small talk. It’s a Spanish ritual that consists of dedicating time to speaking calmly – without haste and without pressure – after a delicious meal with friends and family.

THE HOTEL-SETTING: Hotel Palacio de los Duques.

A MAGICAL MOMENT: The iconic Dos Cielos restaurant, in the former stables of a 19th-century palace, has collaborated with the award-winning Torres brothers. The high-profile chefs and twins have developed a menu that links Spanish tradition with modernity. The menu, just like good chats, is best enjoyed slowly, savouring every second and every flavou .

THE EXPERTS: Javier and Sergio Torres offer a perfect lesson on historical and contemporary Spain during a meal served in the heart of the old Austrias neighbourhood in Madrid – accompanied by a friendly conversation, a rich coffee and a drink with friends in this cosy place where you feel right at home. A perfect sobremesa for enjoying the art of good living in Spain.

The Torres brothers, world-renowned chefs, having fun; the Dos Cielos restaurant at Hotel Palacio de los Duques in Madrid; and one of the dishes that can be enjoyed during a sobremesa.

SUNNY DAYS

DON’T Cartagena de Indias MISS OUT

With a magical, historic centre, the city’s tempting choice of bars for dancing and restaurants for fine dining along with the opportunities it provides to explore nearby destinations, make it a unique destination to visit.

Text: ROSA MARQUÉS

PHOTO: A.G.E.

Views of the Colombian colonial city from one of the many terraces found in its historic centre.

SUNNY DAYS

C In Cartagena, there are many street festivals and parades such as the one seen in this photo, which is put on by the university and moves through the streets of the Getsemaní neighbourhood. Below, the hotel’s Bridal Suite with a king size bed and a Deluxe Room.

artagena’s journey through the centuries

The city quickly flourished thanks to this gold but also,

is alive in the streets of its historic centre, so much so that

and above all, thanks to trade – the slave trade specificall .

the first time I visited, I was excited. I had read so much

When you stroll through the historic centre, many places

of this city in the novels of Colombian Nobel Laureate

tell the tragic story of the sale of people kidnapped in

Gabriel García Márquez, that to be there among the real

Africa and brought to the Americas by the Portuguese.

settings of Love in the Time of Cholera and One Hundred

It’s an overwhelming number: 125,000 people from Africa

Years of Solitude seemed like a dream come true. As the

passed through this port. Today, thanks to The Slave

novelist said himself, ‘It was enough to take a step inside

Route, a project developed by UNESCO, tour guides take

the wall to see it in all its grandeur in the mauve light at

you through the many sites of the city where slavery left

six in the afternoon, and I could not suppress the feeling

its deep imprint in the seventeenth century: the Plaza de

of being born again’.

los Coches, the Plaza de la Aduana, the neighbourhood of Getsemaní, the San Pedro Claver architectural complex

Cartagena de Indias is one of those magical places where you have to go before you die. Colombia as a

and the Cerro de la Popa, along with numerous streets throughout the historic centre.

whole is a genuine wonder. But this, el Corralito de Piedra as they call it, is the most important colonial city

Another way to tour the city, which is just as interesting,

in Latin America, with the largest and best-preserved

is to do it through music. Here in Colombia, the people’s

historic centre. It has all the ingredients to make your trip

passion for music and dance comes from the heart,

an unforgettable experience: history, heritage, natural

whether its salsa, vallenato, cumbia, merengue or

THE PEOPLE’S PASSION FOR MUSIC AND DANCE COMES FROM THE HEART. beauty, beaches, gastronomy, music, fun, lovely people... and a perfect hotel as a base. At the adults-only Meliá Cartagena Karmairi, in the Playa Manzanillo area, you can recharge your batteries by the sea in a rural setting lush with greenery, and enjoy the most beautiful, spectacular Caribbean sunsets.

Founded by the Spanish in 1533 on an abandoned American Indian settlement called Calamarí, the city soon became an important port thanks to the Spanish ships that brought gold from the area – mainly from Peru and Ecuador – later bound for Spain.

PHOTO: A.G.E.

SUNNY DAYS

THE BEST OF CARIBBEAN STREET FOOD Cartagena de Indias

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

PHOTO: A.G.E.

PHOTO: A.G.E.

Cartagena is full of wonderful places to go out for dinner and a drink. Cool, fresh places – beautiful in both design and clientele – are appreciated in a city where 35°C and 90% humidity are the norm. But if there’s a gastronomic gem that shouldn’t be ignored, one that catches your eye while you walk through the colonial centre, it’s the street food. Cartagena is very colourful. Palenqueras can be found selling delicious sweets in every corner – Palenque was a village to which slaves who revolted in colonial times escaped. They are joined by sellers of tropical fruits, coconuts, lemonade and other classics that you should try, like the egg arepa, a popular breakfast in Cartagena that can also be filled with chorizo, chicken or crackling. Carimañolas – cassava fritters with or without fillings – can be dipped in a homemade cream called suero. There’s much more, but the ceviches, a speciality, stand out above all. Cartagena has excellent seafood: shrimp cocktails are a classic which you can also get at the street stalls. They’re served with a mix of onion, garlic, lemon juice, tomato sauce and mayonnaise. You can also pick from other seafood like whelks and chipi-chipi, a small mollusc. Or you can get it as a ceviche with just the lime, garlic and onion without the sauce.

ID Click Ultimate, the robust flooring: all rooms, all conditions, all comfort.

When it comes time to renovate, you’re looking for the best results in the quickest time possible.

For an ultimate experience delivering ultimate results, Tarkett introduces its new rigid composite vinyl tile, ID Click Ultimate.

Discover more:

SUNNY DAYS

Above, the pool and the hotel’s main building. Poolside, you can enjoy a cocktail surrounded by nature.

papayera. The city is full of places to dance and have

unmatched quality of the cigars. Try them at La Cava del

fun at nightfall. In the old town, one of the most exciting

Puro, where you’ll find Havanas, humidors, Davidoffs

places is Café Havanna, where there’s a great atmosphere

and coffee.

and no shortage of live music.

You’ll find the streets are constantly coming and going In the Plaza Santo Domingo, one of the city’s most

with vendors offering avocados, sapotes, mangoes, fried

charming squares, bands play coastal rhythms for tips

fish, chilled coconuts, cigars and cigarettes. Children walk

at the edge of its many tables. In this square in front of

to school whilst shoeshine boys and drivers wait for their

the Convento de Santo Domingo – surrounded by bars,

next customer. Merchants and sellers use their mobile

cafés and wonderful restaurants in beautiful colonial

phones to make their fortune. Craft stalls sprout in every

houses – Gertrudis, a sculpture of a nude, reclining

corner. All of this is also part of the charm of the historic

woman by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, demands

centre of Cartagena.

your attention.

THE TWO CARTAGENAS: PAST AND PRESENT Going shopping is another way to get to know the city.

For those visiting it for the first time, the Bocagrande

Whether crafts or jewellery, you’ll be surprised by the

neighbourhood, filled with skyscrapers, contrasts sharply

quality and design of the pieces in boutiques like those

with the colonial city. You can get there by taxi, which

of Malvi Castañeda or Silvia Tcherassi. And, of course, the

are very cheap and quite safe in the city. But the reality

PHOTO: A.G.E.

SUNNY DAYS

Bocagrande is one of the most luxurious areas of Cartagena, with its many skyscrapers and beach.

is that Cartagena has become one of the most popular

development has been to the north of the city, towards

destinations in the Caribbean, as well as a port of call

the road that connects Cartagena with Barranquilla.

for numerous international cruise ships and a centre of

This area is just 20 minutes from the walled city, which

great potential for business tourism. It’s growing rapidly.

is reached through a newly opened, modern viaduct,

The general manager of the Meliá Cartagena Karmairi,

allowing an enjoyable, comfortable journey’.

Carlos Eduardo Arias, explained how ‘the new focus of And so... I come and go to the historic centre with absolute ease, whenever I want. Convenient transport for hotel guests, with tours in the morning and evening, allows me to enjoy the walled city at will.

And when I wish, I return to the hotel, my private

CARTAGENA HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN THE CARIBBEAN.

oasis of peace and tranquility. I walk along the beach, I do yoga, I have a massage at the spa and a cocktail at the beach club or swimming-pool bar. Could anyone ask for more?

It’s been a long time since I remember such a sensation of fulfilment. There are corners of this hotel that make me feel alive: the Elyxr terrace bar has become one of my favourite places to watch the sunset while I have a drink, chatting with friends. And at the Fish House, with its moody lighting, I fall more and more in love with this city’s gastronomy.

E M B R AC E YO U R NAT U R E

Luxurious all-inclusive beachfront resorts DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · MEXICO

paradisus.com

WHAT TO DO IN

Kensington, where culture lives in London There you can find the best museums, places that have inspired immortal novels (quite literally), as well as the homes of huge music icons.

No matter how much London changes, grows and infinitely reinvents itself with new, trendsetting districts, the city will always have its fundamentals that never disappoint, making it always worth visiting. Kensington is one of those places – it’s one of London’s most traditional neighbourhoods, linked to the British monarchy and to several of the country’s great cultural icons.

Text: ARANTXA NEYRA

Meliá London Kensington [1]

133 Gloucester Road (the house where J.

It’s the company’s third property in the British

M. Barrie lived) [2]

capital – they already own the Meliá White Hou-

According to Google Maps, it only takes five

se and the ME London which are in Marylebone

minutes walking in a straight line on the other

and the West End, respectively.

side of Cromwell Road to reach 133 Gloucester

The new Hotel London Kensington is situated

Road, the former home of J.M. Barrie, author

in the heart of this central district, in a Victorian

of Peter Pan. He lived there between 1895

building that was once an old hotel. It has

and 1902, the period of time in which he wrote

been completely renovated to meet the Meliá

the story of the boy without a shadow who

group’s standards. It is a charming boutique

didn’t want to grow up. When looking out of the

hotel with only 81 rooms, a restaurant bar and

windows of this beautiful, three-storey red-brick

a gym, and it’s just a short walk from other

building, it’s not hard to imagine Wendy and the

attractions in the city such as Knightsbridge,

twins flying away during the magical start of

home to the Harrods and Harvey Nichols

one of the most beautiful stories ever told.

department stores. Despite being very English, in keeping with the neighbourhood that it’s lo-

Kensington Gardens [3]

cated in, the hotel does have traces of Spanish

Fans of Peter Pan will also find it very inter-

influence, particularly in its foyer – its social

esting to visit Kensington Gardens. Not only

core where you can sample different variations

because Barrie’s statue, which he inaugurated

of Iberian cuisine.

himself, is there, but also because the gardens are where he met the Llewelyn Davies family who inspired the story, with their five children who used to go to the park on a regular basis.

Also, Kensington Gardens, one of the most exten-

FANS OF PETER PAN WILL ALSO FIND IT VERY INTERESTING TO VISIT KENSINGTON GARDENS.

and enjoy several other exhibitions about the

sive of the royal parks, is full of attractions – you

life of Queen Victoria, who was born at the pa-

could spend the whole day there. Start your visit at

lace in 1819. After that, you absolutely have to

Kensington Palace, home to the British Royal fa-

wander through the Sunken Garden, planted in

mily (including their ghosts) since the 17th century

1908 and inspired by the Victorian carpets that

(it’s where Diana lived and where the Duke and

decorate its interior. Just in front, in an old pavi-

Duchess of Cambridge currently reside).

lion at the palace, is The Orangery Restaurant,

There you can visit the royal apartments, see an

the perfect place to take part in the tradition of

exhibition about Diana of Wales’ personal style,

five o’clock afternoon tea with all of its frills. If

ILLUSTRATION: FÉLIX DÍAZ DE ESCAURIAZA

you prefer something more contemporary, you

V&A is home to everything, from embroidery and

its 130 years of existence, you can visit ‘Cars:

can go for kale, pizza or mochi at Kensington

glasses to furniture and drawings by Raphael.

Accelerating the Modern World’ which starts on

Whole Foods Market, where they have almost

The museum will host an exhibition to celebrate

23 November 2019.

every food item imaginable.

the bicentenary of Queen Victoria’s birth until

Free architectural tours are offered throughout

December 2019. ‘Wonderful Things’, an exhibit

2019, so that people can get to know the building

Victoria & Albert Museum [4]

featuring photographer Tim Walker’s work, will

better. They take place on a daily basis at 11am.

In front of the Albert Memorial, also in Kensington

start on 21 September and continue into 2020.

Also, throughout the year on Friday nights, ‘Friday

Gardens, you can find this institution, one of the

Or if you want to enjoy visual evidence of how

Late’ takes place – a series of events which the

world’s leading museums of art and design. The

the car has evolved and changed our lives in

public can get to know, first hand, contemporary

WHAT TO DO IN

year, its summer pavilion acts as a platform for

artists and designers through films, performances, lectures, speeches and installations.

Royal Albert Hall [5] There are very few concert halls in the world that have the same prestige and history of this distinctive circular building, inaugurated in 1871 by Queen Victoria herself. Since then, its stage has been graced by artists ranging from The Beatles,

FREDDIE MERCURY’S FORMER HOME CAN BE FOUND AT NUMBER 1 LOGAN PLACE.

The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and Deep Purple

experimentation for a leading architect (in 2019, it was Japanese architect Junya Ishigami’s turn). If you’re looking for work by independent art, design, photography and architecture publishers that are difficult to find in other places, you absolutely must head to the Koenig Books bookshop.

Japan House [8] Situated on Kensington High Street, inside a

to Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli and Raphael. Fur-

beautiful Art Deco building, is Japan House

thermore, the Eurovision Song Contest has been

the moon that has a diameter of seven metres.

London, where the city’s multiculturalism shines.

held here and even the Dalai Lama has spoken at

If you want to delve deeper into the subject, you

It’s a creative space where, through various

this famous venue. No matter the season, there is

can visit the Science Museum which is also in

exhibitions, activities and experiences, the cul-

always something interesting on its agenda. And

the South Kensington area. This museum or-

tures of both countries are twinned. Experience

that’s not including visits to the actual building

ganises various exhibitions related to this ‘small

Manga exhibitions, cinema, Sake tastings and

itself, which is a true, architectural masterpiece.

step for man, giant leap for mankind’.

catwalk shows – in Kensington, you’ll be closer than ever to the land of the rising sun.

Natural History Museum [6]

Serpentine Gallery [7] Design Museum [9]

It’s worth visiting this museum just to gawp at its

This former tea pavilion at Kensington Palace, built

beautiful architecture. But inside, it holds many

between 1933 and 1934, became a prestigious

Holland Park, with its Victorian houses, charming

secrets that are related to our universe since its

contemporary art gallery in 1970 in which the

hotels and nice shops, is one of the most special

creation. The most exciting parts include dino-

works of artists such as Man Ray, Henry Moore,

places in London. We all enjoy walking there,

saurs, fossils and gigantic cetacean skeletons;

Christian Boltanski and Damien Hirst are exhi-

but only a few can afford to call it home (David

but this year the exhibits coincide with the anni-

bited. Just a five-minute walk across the bridge

Beckham included). Since 2016, there has been

versary of Apollo 11 – the first trip to the moon.

that crosses the Serpentine Lake, you’ll find the

an added attraction – the Design Museum. It

This trip will be celebrated in the ‘Museum of

gallery’s other section, the Serpentine Sackler

was moved here from its original location on the

the Moon’, an installation by Luke Jerram who

Gallery. This gallery opened in 2013 with an ex-

banks of the Thames. Voted European Museum

constructed a model of the surface and light of

tension designed by Zara Hadid Architects. Every

of the Year in 2018, its permanent collection includes all branches of design: product, industrial, civil, graphic, fashion and architecture. In 2019, it celebrated its 30th anniversary, and for that reason its schedule is filled with exhibitions and

THE MAGAZINE CAFE/RESTAURANT, SERPENTINE SACKLER GALLERY / PHOTO: A.G.E.

commemorative activities until 2020.

1 Logan Place (Freddie Mercury’s former home) [10] This completely open-air museum used to be the home of Freddie Mercury, lead singer of Queen and immortal icon of 20th century pop culture. It can be found at number 1 Logan Place, a small, residential street in Kensington near Earl’s Court Road. Now it belongs to his ex-wife, Mary Austin, who many now know from Bohemian Rhapsody, the film about his life.

This is where fans gather to write messages and leave graffiti on the residence’s wall – they can’t visit his grave because Austin is the only person who knows where his ashes were scattered.

Storytelling Hotels

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USA Douglas Centre 2600 South Douglas Road Suite 1007 Coral Gables FL, 33134-6142

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DOMINICAN REP. Av. Winston Churchill 93 T. Empresarial Blue Mall piso 25, local 3 SD

THE OBSERVATORY

PIONEERS IN LEISURE How to continue leading the hospitality industry

Text: EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

We have a look at the facts and figures behind one of the most prominent companies in the hospitality industry, Meliá Hotels International, and the strategies that will allow it to maintain its leading position. There’s much more to it than just sea, sun and sand...

A Sunset yoga on the beach at the ME Ibiza – where we place a special emphasis on wellness.

lways being one step ahead and attracting

“LEISURE AT HEART, BUSINESS IN MIND”

new markets is no easy feat, especially in a sector that has

This is no random slogan. Out of the 20 largest hotel

grown and changed so much in recent years. Tourism has

groups in the world, Meliá Hotels International is the only

become the world’s third-largest export sector, and according

one that has origins in the resort segment. The company

to data released by the World Tourism Organization

has leisure tourism in its DNA, with a history that runs

(UNWTO), the number of international tourists had soared

parallel to that of the industry. Founded by Gabriel

to 1.4 billion by the end of 2018. And over the next 15 years,

Escarrer in Majorca in the 1950s, the group already existed

it’s estimated that this figure will have risen by another 800

when beach tourism was becoming popular a decade later

million new tourists.

in Mediterranean destinations.

But why are they travelling? According to the UNWTO,

According to Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, current CEO and son of

over half (55%) travel purely for the sake of it with the classic

the company’s founder, “this has given us an extraordinary

leisure segment continuing to drive the bulk of the tourism

wealth of experience, unique to our company. Our

business worldwide. And it’s in this market that Meliá Hotels

international competitors would only go into this business

International has spent over six decades as a global leader.

30 years later, with us already leading in the Mediterranean.”

THE OBSERVATORY

WHILE MOST MAJOR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL COMPANIES COMPRISE NO MORE THAN 30% OF HOLIDAY-FOCUSED HOTELS AND RESORTS, MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL MAKES UP ALMOST 60% OF THIS SEGMENT. Armed with this advantage, they have also been able to join

The Group’s urban Hotels are also increasingly focused

the ranks of the pioneers in promoting new destinations

on “bleisure”, the recent trend of blending business trips

which opened up to tourism from the beginning of the 1990s:

and holidays: an ever-increasing way to travel, which

Cancun, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic – countries that

the group is already responding to. The result? An

would go on to be leaders in sea, sun and sand tourism.

urban experience with a very high leisure and lifestyle component, where everything is taken care of down to

PLEASURE (AND BUSINESS): STIRRED, NOT SHAKEN

the very last detail.

Today, Meliá Hotels International continues to grow and evolve, allowing it to maintain its position as a market

“The business traveller wants to complement their

leader. Their motto, “Leisure at heart, business in mind”,

work with gastronomic experiences, wellness-focused

is a declaration of their principles. While most major

activities or sport, some sort of social interaction

international hotel companies comprise no more than

with the city ’s residents, and, of course, the ability

30% of holiday-focused hotels and resorts, Meliá Hotels

to explore and discover the area itself,” explains the

International makes up almost 60% of this segment.

company ’s CEO.

Above, on the left, the pool at the ME Sitges Terramar, a hotel with a unique, minimalist style and the latest technology.

On the right, a cocktail at the adults-only Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort. Below, on the left, the Meliá Caribe Beach Resort in Punta Cana, which offers exclusive access to The Level, complete with private zones like the Riviera Restaurant.

THE OBSERVATORY

WELCOME TO THE RESORT OF THE FUTURE The typical sun-seeking tourist who spends the whole day lounging around on the beach is in danger of extinction.

Travellers increasingly look for resorts that can offer activities to talk about back home and new experiences that are tailored to their own lifestyles. Trends such as wellness, nature, healthy living, sport, contemporary art and music are becoming increasingly popular.

Nowadays, the new leisure tourist wants to immerse themselves in the culture found at their destination. Hotel lobbies have become co-working spaces for coffee dates, good food and work meetings. Rooftops are meeting spaces where people enjoy evening cocktails and mingling with the locals as well as other guests. Even gyms, many overlooking the pool or garden, are open to innovative disciplines and non-guests with yoga courses and running clubs. And of course, the hotel bars – centres for socialising par excellence – which are experiencing their greatest moment with furniture and designs that are aligned to that of a signature cocktail bar, always filled with surprises

AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT ACROSS ALL SEVEN BRANDS Meliá Hotels International works hard to ensure all of their brands are on the cutting edge of this new kind of leisure tourism. Today, not only are their holiday-focused brands offering these concepts, such as Sol by Meliá or Paradisus

by Meliá, but the rest of their brands as well: Meliá, ME by Meliá, Gran Meliá and Innside by Meliá.

Above, the Hotel de Mar on the island of Majorca (top), located in an exquisite environment where pleasure-seekers can rest and relax.The Innside Calviá Beach hotel on the same island offers a suspended pool with a glass bottom (left) and a breathtaking rooftop (right).

For example, the Innside Calviá Beach in Majorca has been transformed into a place to be in the Mediterranean, where locals and guests coexist around a newly built central square, bursting with street food options, fashion boutiques and spaces for families. One of the hotels in the complex even features a rooftop perfect for Instagram, complete with a large hanging glass swimming pool, which is already a major architectural landmark in the area.

Other notable examples of this masterful restructuring are the Meliá Caribe Beach Resort and the Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort. The modern EcoResort philosophy has been brought to these resorts, largely focused on wellbeing. On the treatment menu, guests can find everything from Hindu massages for the scalp to shiatsu and refl xology... all while the little ones enjoy activities designed just for them.

The ME brand includes notable examples such as ME Cabo – a hotspot for exclusivity and state-of-the-art facilities

THE OBSERVATORY

The sophisticated spirit of the ME Cabo, below, can be found even at the hotel’s pool.

– where suites are equipped with DJ booths whilst the

With these advances, the Gran Meliá hotels continue to

beach club gives off an elegant and cosmopolitan flare.

embrace the luxury desired by the new leisure tourist.

At the recently inaugurated ME Sitges Terramar, guests

Facing the Mediterranean, the Gran Meliá de Mar is a

are welcomed to their rooms by their favourite song

perfect example of this, featuring swimming pools with

and enjoy a wide range of other highly personalised

spectacular views, Balinese beds, haute cuisine, chic

comforts. Similarly, the ME Ibiza is where fun, modernity

bars and the chance to have unique experiences – such

and tradition come together in perfect harmony. Guests

as discovering the Sierra de Tramontana from the sea

can enjoy a rooftop spa, one of the island’s top beach

aboard a traditional Balearic boat, or spoiling yourself at

clubs, traditional gastronomy, signature cuisine, pop-up

the Spa by Clarins® above an exclusive cove in Majorca

restaurants and a pool with a relaxing chill-out zone –

looking out onto the summer palace owned by the

offering an authentic taste of Ibiza.

Spanish monarchy.

THE OBSERVATORY INTERVIEW

We talk to CEO Gabriel Escarrer about how the group maintains their position as an international leader in the resort hotel industry, as well as their growing presence in today’s main holiday destinations: the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Asia-Pacifi

GABRIEL ESCARRER

CEO OF MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL

The Meliá group holds a dominant position in typical

of upscale, ultra-all-inclusive resorts that enhance guests’

resort areas. How do you envision your future in these

experiences by highlighting wellness and, of course, the

zones?

importance of being environmentally friendly.

Exactly, our story is strongly linked to these regions, thanks to the previous holiday expertise we acquired

How do you see the resort of the future?

through our background in the Mediterranean. We

As the chief executive of a company with more than 60 years

have since continued to strengthen this experience with

of experience in managing resort hotels and President of

powerful, renowned brands as well as an excellent hotel

Exceltur, the first ourism lobby in a country that is a world

management system.

leader in tourism – as Spain is – I have a clear understanding

Today, we have 45 resorts across North and South

of how the sector is evolving. I can tell you that although

America, 100 in Europe, 15 in Africa and over 30 in the

it continues to maintain its strength and potential for the

Asia-Pacific region. And I can tell you that in the n xt

future, it is undergoing a profound transformation.

“WE ARE AMONG THE TOP THREE OPERATORS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA”

decade, 80% of our expansion

This transformation is visible in the profiles of our guests

will occur in the following

as well as guest segmentation – and not only in regard

three regions around the

to demographics, but psychographics as well. The

globe: the Mediterranean Arch,

transformation can also be seen in their consumption

the Caribbean (both Spanish-

behaviours and in the product itself.

and English-speaking) and

Today, Generation Z is joining the baby boomers and

Southeast Asia.

millennials as they begin to travel. This means families,

In Southeast Asia, we’ve

solo travellers, empty-nesters, groups of friends, and

positioned ourselves among

other groups of people are all setting off with very

the top three hotel companies

different expectations for their holidays.

in countries as important as Indonesia and Vietnam,

Regarding consumption behaviours, trips are becoming

with 16 and 12 hotels respectively. We foresee extensive

shorter and shorter, and more frequent – a phenomenon

development in our journey to becoming the key holiday

called bite-sized travel. Increasingly, these trips are

destination across Asia and Oceania.

tailor-made thanks to the influence of the Inte net and social media.

Do you rely on any holiday-specific brands

There are also global movements towards sustainability,

While all of our brands can operate as a resort or

wellness, luxury goods, cultural learning, the arts and

traditional hotel, two of our brands have been designed

gastronomy – our resorts must adapt to these trends as well.

exclusively to give guests an unforgettable beach hotel

Lastly, as technology becomes increasingly present, resort

experience – Sol by Meliá, our most veteran brand

hotels are also undergoing the digital transformation.

which dates back to the founding of our company, and

These effects are seen not only with big data and artificial

Paradisus by Meliá.

intelligence in the searching and buying phases, but

The Sol by Meliá hotels are characterised by their

also in the guests’ stays themselves in terms of increased

premium seaside locations, as well as their family-

personalisation, the fusion of free time and fl xible work,

oriented atmosphere which includes classic

and in business process automation and optimisation – all

entertainment options and uniquely fun activities based

allowing us to focus on the quality of our services.

on the Katmandu Adventures® for the youngest of

Ultimately, resorts today have more to offer than just sun

guests. The Sol hotels, under the sub-brand Sol Beach

and beaches, which are necessary but not enough. Now

House, offer adults relaxing, elegant and rejuvenating

and in the future, resorts will continue to offer a wider

options to enjoy their stay.

range of experiences adapted to globalisation and the

Meanwhile, the Paradisus by Meliá brand is comprised

growing diversity of their clientele.

FASHION

Macarena García on the beach wearing a triangle bikini top with front buckle and bottom with Vichy square design by Pale Swimwear.

Fashion photography: RICARDO RAMOS. Styling: ANAÏS IBÁÑEZ. Makeup & Hair: PEDRO CEDEÑO (NURIA SÁENZ MANAGEMENT) for Chanel y L'Oréal Proffesionne.

Photographic assistant:ARÍSTIDES CARBALLO. Production and styling assistant: HOMERO SAKER. Acknowledgments: ALEX BANDRICH, MAITE ARTIEDA & NORMA CORDOVA.

DREAMING ON BLUE BEACH V

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Just a few kilometres east of Havana, you’ll find one of the orld's most beautiful beaches. In Varadero, the Meliá Internacional Varadero hotel, in a romantic azure paradise, we fell in love with this article's feature actress, Macarena García.

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FASHION

Macarena García in The Level area – a boutique hotel within a hotel at the Meliá Internacional Varadero – wears a long, yellow knitted Lurex dress and a natural fibre bag y Léane. One-strap sandal with metallic accents by Christian Dior. On the other page, a swimsuit with waist detail by Olyswimwear.

FASHION

Macarena García, on the terrace of one of the hotel’s penthouses, wears a pointelle jersey with multicoloured stripes made of sustainable cotton by Emes.

Elastane bikini brief by Stella McCartney.

FASHION

The actress in one of the hotel’s pools wearing a polyamide and elastane swimsuit with back straps from Pale Swimwear. On the other page, she wears a cotton net dress by Pedro del Hierro on Varadero Beach. Two-piece swimsuit with detailed waistband by Olyswimwear.

INTERVIEW

FASHION

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T a

series called “Luna, el misterio de Calenda” (“Moon, the Mystery of Calen-

We travelled to Cuba with the Madrid-born actress in order to verify that a life without shoes is a life with zest.

da” in English) and I remember going back to filming and feeling like an absolute poser. I had to keep producing my best work as I was only an actress in the making. It was a very beautiful time of my life, but I suffered from a lot of stress. But I can say that I’m proud of one thing: I put all of my heart and soul into the projects I work on.’ Macarena has taken part in numerous other series ( La otra mirada

Macarena García, on the terrace of one of the hotel's penthouses, wears a pointelle jersey with multicoloured stripes made of sustainable cotton by Emes.

Elastane bikini brief by Stella McCartney.

A

and Los elegidos) and the general pupleasant conversation, a sunset,

was what led her to audition for 'High

blic fell in love with her role as Mary

a glass of wine, being surroun-

School Musical’ in which she was cho-

in La Llamada (‘Holy Camp!’), a musi-

ded by her favourite people... This is

sen as the production’s lead. ‘It’s not

cal created by her brother, Javier Am-

what Macarena García values most –

that I have an infinite talent for it, but

brossi, and his partner Javier Calvo,

the simple things in life. Maybe that’s

I enjoy it a lot. After two years, I reali-

known together as 'the Javis'. The duo

why the Spanish actress truly came

sed that what impacted me most was

have also directed a couple episodes

to life at the end of this photoshoot,

the acting itself and doing it each and

of the tv phenomenon Paquita Salas.

splashing around in the crystal-clear

every day a little bit better than befo-

Recently, we have seen her in Ventajas

waters of Varadero with the entire

re.’ García left her Psychology studies

de viajar en tren, (‘The Advantages of

team. Laughter, sunset, good vibes...

early and joined the cast of Amar en

Travelling by Train'), an ensemble fil

less is more! And indeed, the back-

tiempos revueltos (‘To Love in Tur-

whose director, Aritz Moreno, remin-

drop is unique. ‘I've fallen madly in

bulent Times’ in English), where she

ded her of Berger with ‘his unique

love with Cuba’, confesses the actress,

met Joaquín Climent, Maica Barroso,

and courageous vision’.

who has girlish features, a radiant smi-

Nadia de Santiago and Itziar Miran-

le and bright green eyes. For many, her

da. ‘I believe those were the people

We managed to take Macarena on

face will be forever immortalised in

from whom I have learnt most from

this trip between filming and after

our imagination in black and white as

on an artistic level’, she recalls. ‘At that

her first appearance at the Venice

Snow White in a bullfighte ’s costume.

time, I was very naïve, and they gave

film festival, where she met Kristen

We owe this image to the cinematic

me good advice.’ Until she starred in

Stewart. ‘I like how she presents her-

magic of Pablo Berger, who gave us the

Berger’s film, it was difficult for García

self, and her overall presence on the

eponymous film in 2012, which earned

to call herself an actress. ‘I sometimes

red carpet.’ At first, Macarena did

García a Goya for Best New Actress.

still have trouble saying it’, she jokes,

not have a lot of fun when it came

confi ming that one of her charming

to getting dressed up for events and

She never dreamt of being a star.

characteristics is her openness. ‘When

photo calls. ‘Fashion is a way to ex-

Her passion for singing and dancing

I won the Goya, I was working on a

press who you are, but I was not used

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Text: CLARA LAGUNA

to being up-to-date with the latest trends, fashion shows and the most important brands. I value the creative aspect and the work that goes into it, but it is not an environment with which I feel very connected. I like to feel comfortable.’ And for Macarena, being comfortable means being barefoot in a bikini, singing between photos and telling us all about why Cuba has won her over. ‘Havana is beautiful, full of life and colour. And this country has such a special story that its strength reaches your soul. The way people live here has made an impact on me; it’s so different to our way of living, it makes you think.’

García was able to visit La Guarida where she enjoyed ‘the exquisite food and its charming employees.’

She also ate at Iván Chef Justo, a spot run by one of Fidel Castro’s former chefs. She also paid a visit to Viñales, with its ‘wild and beautiful nature’.

Trinidad was another stop on her itinerary, where she enjoyed La Casa de La Música, a classic music venue.

We ask her what the ideal souvenir from Cuba would be. ‘I try to be less of a consumer... we think material FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY: RICARDO RAMOS

items bring us joy but that’s not the case. In Trinidad, I bought a print by a Cuban artist. It was very special, but more than anything, the experience and the emotions that come with it is what I’ll take back home. Here, the people are generous and warm. It has been easy to talk with them and to learn more about their culture’.

FRESH AIR

Meliá Internacional Varadero

CARIBBEAN PARADISE Text: CLARA LAGUNA

T

he new Meliá Internacional Varadero has only been open

for a few months and it’s a one-ofa-kind destination. Located in the city at the Hicacos Peninsula, it’s just 130 kilometres east of Havana, making it the perfect place to visit before or after stopping in the Cuban capital. There’s no excuse to miss out on its seemingly infinit beach with warm, turquoise waters and smooth sand – simply one of the most places in the world.

The sea views welcome you with open arms as you step into the impressive lobby at the hotel, which

From top to bottom, the relaxation area at the Yhi Spa and its views of the beach; a room at the hotel, also with sea views; and the swimming pool with areas for children.

is close to other attractions such as Cienfuegos and Cayo Santa Maria.

Its cuisine is made up of flavours from around the world – Cuban, buffet-style, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, and much more. And its exclusive services, such as The Level and The Level Adults, and the special attention paid to every little detail, make it the perfect choice for any type of traveller.

T H IS IS

NOT A SWIMMING POOL

It’s friendship, adventure, it’s the best summer of their life.

It’s Meliá’s passion. The passion that awakens the soul of Summer. soulmatters.melia.com

Discover the secret soul of things.

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FRESH AIR

Havana

REGAL AND AUTHENTIC Text: CLARA LAGUNA. Photography: RICARDO RAMOS.

In November, the Cuban capital turns 500 years old. The city will celebrate its birthday by showing the world its inexhaustible capacity for seduction.

In a taxi in Old Havana, a great way to get a fi st impression of the city.

FRESH AIR

H From left to right, and top to bottom, graffiti in the Sa Isidro neighbourhood, an emerging cultural area of the city; the emblematic Gran Teatro de la Habana; mojitos in La Bodeguita del Medio with Hemingway’s famous, framed inscription; one of the many beautiful antique cars that can be found in Havana.

avana is a state of mind’, says Eusebio Leal

referring to the city's marvellous, authentic and elegant feel.

Spengler, one of the city’s greatest historians. And that state

Many of these facades show classic signs of chipping, their

of mind, which captivates us, is a mixture of joy, melancholy

walls opening to the streets with crumbling balconies that

and celebration. As is common when it comes to historical

hold up the pensive elderly and the vibrant youth dressed

dates, there are conflicting opinions about the exact birth

in flowe y shirts. We had travelled in time, and we couldn’t

date of this capital city, which has been declared a UNESCO

wait to climb into one of those ‘old’ cars. There seem to

World Heritage Site. But, as Spengler points out, if it’s not

be a lot of roses now ever since Rihanna chose one of the

the founding of Havana that is celebrated every November,

same colour for a selfie which she published on Instagram.

it’s the city’s definitive location of 500 years on the northern

The car that led us to the enormous Revolution Square, in

coast next to the port that gives it its worldwide fame.

the charming Vedado district, was bright red with creamcoloured seats. Our driver smiled when we showed

These five centuries of history have led to an excuse to regenerate the city. An attempt, they explain, ‘to heal wounds,

enthusiasm upon seeing the sculpture of that famous picture of Che, taken by photographer Alberto Korda.

brighten monuments, bring water back to the fountains and flowers back to gardens.’ The Havana Central Rail Station,

We continued our walk, half lulled to sleep by the humid, Caribbean heat and half rocked by the music of the street musicians. In each corner of the five squares of Old Havana – Plaza de Armas, Plaza de San Francisco,

WE WALKED THROUGH THE STREETS WHICH, DESPITE NOT HAVING TRAFFIC LIGHTS, NEVER HAVE ANY TRAFFIC JAMS.

Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catédral and Plaza del Cristo – we could hear nostalgic chords and upbeat rhythms playing amid the bustle of tourists and locals who watch the afternoon pass by from the doorways of their houses and shops. Under the watchful eye of the Ceiba trees (with eyes that seem to be in embedded its trunk), the lush gardens show their fine y and reminded us that little rain falls here – just enough to relieve the high temperatures.

A beautiful woman’s voice emotionally moved us while we were enjoying lunch in the emblematic restaurant at the Meliá Cohiba, which has hosted many Hollywood

the restoration of the Castillo de Santo Domingo of Atarés

stars and other celebrities.

fort and the Cuatro Caminos Market are some of the reopenings that are anticipated. However, it is the impressive

An afternoon dip never hurts – and we were recommended

National Capitol building, whose restoration began in 2010,

to do so in the pool at the Meliá Habana, the best in the city.

that will be the first postcard-worthy project to be completed.

Instead, we were satisfied by the greeting of fresh air that

Opened in 1929, its construction is often compared with that

entered El Floridita, the emblematic bar from 1817 where

of the US Capitol Building. Despite having been completed

Ernest Hemingway quenched his thirst with daiquiris. And

afterwards, works actually started on the Cuban version firs

we did the same, because it was impossible not to be carried

– in Cuba, time passes in a different way.

away by the ‘spirit of tourism’ in such a beautiful place, one of the most famous bars in the world. The live performances

This was made obvious to us as we walked through the

of Cuban artists changed our state of mind once again.

streets which, despite not having traffic lights, never have

Following this moment, our pilgrimage inevitably led us

any traffic jams. Colourful facades – many adorned with

to the Bodeguita del Medio, where Hemingway’s famous

signs that are written in such classic typography that they

inscription, written in his own handwriting, is hung: ‘My

become modern – brightened our vision. In many parts

mojito in La Bodeguita, my daiquiri in El Floridita.’ We

of Havana, there are signs with slogans that celebrate the

savoured our rum, mint and lime drink, and were glad that

500th anniversary, such as ‘La Habana, real y maravillosa’,

Havana preserved these magical spots for us.

FRESH AIR

There are other iconic tastes for the palate, the unmixed rum (it’s best when it’s from Santiago de Cuba) and the Ropa Vieja dish, which we tasted at La Guarida after having entertained ourselves on the famous staircase of this ‘jewel’ of the city centre. Built in a 20th-century mansion, this restaurant, with its perfect temperature and walls adorned with extravagant artwork, embodies the delectable decadence of Havana.

Other restaurants, like the charming Río Mar and its terrace, offer an edgier side. There, we tried huge, delicious clams, surrounded by the history of Miramar, the neighbourhood where the Cuban upper class lived in the fifties, whose traces can be found in the abandoned Riomar building. After, we enjoyed a ‘Madre Rata’ coffee (with rum and hazelnut liqueur) at Café Fortuna Joe, a modern space decorated with antiques.

We later wanted to see more signs of the new Havana that is emerging from underneath its immortal beauty. At the moment, you can hear Cimafunk playing across the city, an alternative artist whose biggest fan is Susan Sarandon. You can also hear a lot of Nube Roja, a group founded by Lázaro Peña and Anthuan Perugorría, son of Jorge Perugorría.

Another son of the Fresa y Chocolate actor, Adán Perugorría, has proposed to revitalize the neighbourhood of San Isidro in Old Havana through the use of art. He welcomed us in his From top to bottom, and left to right, the port of Havana; the legendary Teatro América, which opened in the 1940s; fried plantains at La Guarida restaurant.

Gorría Workshop Gallery, one of the most interesting cultural projects found in cosmopolitan Havana. Soon, in the same building, a modern restaurant called Yarini will open.

Clandestina, Cuba’s leading fashion brand, can also be found in this area. And in that same wavelength but in another neighbourhood, we found the El Cocinero rooftop, a very cool gastronomic space at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, which, incidentally, is the cultural space where everything seems to be going on.

The sun was setting, and we let ourselves spend some time on the Malecón esplanade to enjoy the crashing of the waves breaking on the shore whilst chatting and listening to the sound of footsteps that were coming from a dance school. It was approaching the time to leave, and we felt like we were taking a slice of Havana away with us.

We also left a piece of ourselves behind, and we will never be the same again. In the Plaza de Armas, an inscription on the legendary Ceiba tree reads: ‘Do not perish in the future Havanan faith.’ Instead, we’ve decided to take it on and make it our own.

IF YOU COME TO CUBA...

Unforgettable destinations

In addition to essential Havana, the island offers lots of unforgettable destinations. Meliá has 36 hotels in Cuba, located in Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Largo, Cayo Santa María, Holguín, Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Varadero, Camagüey and Cienfuegos.

Varadero. Endless sandy beaches, turquoise waters and elegant resorts. If you are looking for a slice of heaven on earth, you should also visit the islands of Cayo Largo and Cayo Santa María. Viñales. Do not miss the Prehistory Mural and the Mirador de los Jazmines in this town located in the western part of the island. Trinidad. Its old town and cobbled streets are unforgettable. Do not forget to take an excursion to the Valley of the Sugar Mills, one of Cuba’s sugar regions. Santiago de Cuba. The second-oldest city on the island was the birthplace of the Revolution. Visit the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Moncada Barracks. Cienfuegos. La Perla del Sur, or ‘The Pearl of the South’, has a strong French influence that is most visible in the José Martí Park and the Arc de Triomphe. Santa Clara.

You'll want to become immortal in the Plaza of the Revolution, the monument to Tren Blindado and the Leoncio Vidal Park.

Matanzas. Known as the ‘city of bridges’ and ‘the Athens of Cuba’, it’s given the country important historical figures and artists. Camagüey. Colonial beauty and unique urban architecture over the vast plains of central-eastern Cuba. Holguín. You will fall in love with its historical squares, like the bustling Calixto García, and the romantic San José. Santa Clara. Here, you can visit the mausoleum of Che Guevara.

FUN DESTINATION

Rooms with

A VIEW

Text: EDITORIAL STAFF

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THE JEWEL

NEW SENSATIONS

Text: GEMA MONROY

The Ba Vi mountain range and national park, where the hotel is located.

Do you need to surround yourself with nature and truly relax? Are you ready to give yourself a break and let yourself be pampered?

It's time to treat yourself with a stay at the Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat & Spa – Meliá’s fi st accommodation dedicated to wellness and well-being.

THE JEWEL

T

ake a deep breath in. Feel the power of nature

enter your lungs and let it cleanse you. Breathe out. Let go of your worries and your weariness, as well as everything you don’t need with you in the present moment. Birdsong softly floats through the air. You slowly start to open your eyes. Take your time – there’s no need to rush. Before you, a blanket of dense rainforest covers valleys and mountains almost to the horizon where – when the fog allows – you can see the city of Hanoi, 55 kilometres away.

You find yourself in the Ba Vi National Park, one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. Throughout its 11,372 hectares of forest, you can find caves and canyons, waterfalls and lakes, abandoned temples and ruins from the French colonial era, trails leading to sharp peaks connected in legend and mausoleums dedicated to some of the country’s founders. This breathtaking green space is a popular escape for city dwellers looking to enjoy a picnic, go for a swim, or take a hike in the mountain. The Ba Vi National Park is also an area of immense ecological and cultural value, complete with a wide variety of tropical and sub-tropical flora and fauna, and a rich tradition of craft-making in the surrounding villages.

LET GO OF YOUR WORRIES AND YOUR WEARINESS, AS WELL AS EVERYTHING YOU DON’T NEED WITH YOU IN THE PRESENT MOMENT.

Contemplate the spectacular vistas from your scenic viewpoint on the banks of Swan Lake, where you will start your day with your first yoga and meditation sessions. It’s been a long time since you felt such peace, such fulfilment It’s exactly what you needed.

The Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat & Spa is founded on the desire to help you regain your balance and your centre, as you achieve physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Meliá’s first mountain retreat dedicated to both body and soul offers visitors a holistic, personalised experience for adventurers seeking something more.

Ba Vi is the national park's highest (1,296 metres) and most emblematic mountain. At the base of the mountain, where the French built their holiday mansions in the 1940s, the resort has returned the exclusive Cote 600 summit station to its former glory. The construction of the hotel on the ruins of colonial villas – in a fascinating historical area lost in nature and time, and abandoned during the war – is also part of a wider government restoration project. "Thanks to the remarkable location, the accommodations and the unique well-being experiences we offer, the Meliá Ba Vi Mountain

On the left, the inviting lobby lounge where traditional Vietnamese decor blends with colonial French influences Above, the Deluxe room complete with a balcony – ideal for taking in the scenery.

THE JEWEL

ALL ACCOMMODATIONS HAVE ECO-FRIENDLY AMENITIES, BAMBOO DETAILS AND PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN SCENERY. This resort makes it easy to disconnect, relax and enjoy nature.

Retreat & Spa is the perfect example of a luxury mountain

friendly amenities, bamboo details and panoramic views of

resort designed for stylish travellers," explains general

the breathtaking mountain scenery.

director Noemi Perez.

As a key material in Vietnamese culture, bamboo also Nature, history, legends – and plenty of luxury. Conscious,

features prominently at the elegant 1902 Lobby Lounge,

respectful luxury. In perfect harmony with the magical,

where visitors can enjoy stunning views over a drink, and

mystical environment that surrounds it, the Meliá Ba Vi

the two restaurants: Senses (open all day, to delight the

Mountain Retreat & Spa preserves the elegant French

most discerning palates), and Tonkin (an Indo-Chinese

colonial architecture, while enriching it with that of the

atmosphere

traditional Vietnamese. Of the 55 rooms available, some

restaurants use food grown in the resort’s organic garden,

have garden terraces whilst others have balconies. There are

and include several local specialties on the menu, such as

also rooms with chimneys and even two-storey villas with

fried goat, wok-tossed Ba Vi orchid or the Ba Vi-style pig ear

a pool and multiple rooms. All accommodations have eco-

with freshly harvested fig

with

Vietnamese

fusion

cuisine).

Both

There are plenty of lodging options at the resort. From top to bottom, left to right: The Grand Suite; its living room; the outside of a Premium room; and a glimpse into a Premium room.

THE JEWEL

At this wellness paradise, the infinity pool (right), and the Tonkin restaurant (below), with local and organic options, will rejuvenate your overall health and well-being.

But the real heart of the resort is the YHI Spa – a space for new sensations aimed at purification and meditation, serenity and the awakening of all the senses. Everything from light, to smells, to sounds, textures, and essential oils are considered to complement a choice of treatments and holistic therapies. Based on a foundation of ancient wisdom, treatments are personalised and carried out by highly qualified staff to help you rediscover the best parts of yourself and experience new sensations.

Embracing the healing power of nature, the well-being offer at the resort includes hiking and bike tours for guests to explore the most beautiful places in the national park, as well as a luxury camping experience under the stars in the summer months.

Now, take a deep breath once again and prepare to enjoy everything the MeliĂĄ Ba Vi Mountain Retreat & Spa has for you.

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HEAD OFFICE KETTAL / CONTRACT BARCELONA: Aragรณn 316, 08009 Barcelona, Spain. T. (34) 93 487 90 90 SHOWROOMS KETTAL BARCELONA - LONDON - MARBELLA - MIAMI - NEW YORK - PARIS

Lessons in a life well lived

Siesta

Enjoying the incredible sensation of dreamy semi-consciousness shading you from the scorching heat of obligation. A quality moment that truly defines our tradition: a tradition of simple pleasures, connection to the land, respect for artistry and for thoughtful elegance in every detail.

Or what we like to call: a life well lived.

Luxury hotels and resorts celebrating Spanish heritage

www.granmelia.com

THE

GOOD LIFE

A Passion for Golf | Family | Food & Beverage | Travel Corner | Business | A New Wellness | | Awards | Winter Leisure | Training and the Future | Art and the Avant-garde | Lifestyle | |

THE

GOOD LIFE

A PASSION FOR GOLF

Practise your swing in

A DREAMLIKE SETTING in the Dominican Republic An overhead view of the Cocotal Golf & Country Club in Punta Cana.

W

ith a climate that seems

– with its elegant colonial architec-

Cana and blends in perfectly with the

made for golf, and for enthu-

ture and beachfront location – is just

Dominican landscape of Playa Bávaro.

siasts of the sport, there are few pla-

12 minutes away from Cocotal Golf,

The 18-hole course was designed by

ces like Punta Cana in terms of year-

one of the Dominican Republic’s

the famous José Gancedo and opened

round golfing. On these Caribbean

premier golf courses. Guests staying

its doors in 2000. José ‘Pepe’ Gancedo,

shores, at the breathtaking Playa

at Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa

six-time Spanish champion, designed

Bávaro, we find a luxu y resort and

have green fees waived throughout

the golf course according to the lay of

golfer’s paradise, where guests can

the year during their stay.

the land, using the natural landscape to

soak in the Caribbean lifestyle. The exclusive Paradisus Palma Real resort

Cocotal is among the most exclusive and challenging golf courses in Punta

create a circuit which is easy to remember long after finishing up a round

one of the world’s most prestigious academies: the Silver Sands Golf Academy. Since its founding in Wisconsin in 1975, their programme has helped thousands of golfers. They use V1 digital coaching software for the best video swing analysis possible.

OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE GUARANTEES ONE OF THE BEST AND FASTEST WAYS TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOLFING GOALS. Personal training includes shortand long-game coaching, a practical course visit, theoretical swing lessons, game strategy, rules, etiquette, golf history, physical training, proper practice habits and ultimately, exercises and full-practice sessions to turn our students into better players, making the most of their skills. Over 30 years of experience guarantees one of the best and fastest ways to This trademark features include strategically placed trees, bunkers,

game in a friendly and welcoming environment.

achieve your golfing goals Their aim is to offer you a unique golfing xperience, with an empha-

mounds, gentle-rolling terrain with well-defined and generous fai ways,

SILVER SANDS GOLF ACADEMY

sis on the principles of the game

and of course the wind, which can

AND GOLF NEXT LEVEL TRAINING

and, above all, fun. The academy’s focuses on conveying basic con-

significantly affect pla . The use of

For those who want to improve

four sets of tee markers offers low

their game or learn how to play

cepts of continuous improvement

handicappers a challenging round,

golf during their stay at the Paradi-

to motivate and assist each player

while beginners and intermediate

sus Palma Real Golf & Spa resort,

to complete the course with as few

players can gradually improve their

the Cocotal golf course is home to

shots as possible.

Guests staying at Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa have green fees waived throughout the year during their stay.

THE

GOOD LIFE

FAMILY

Dunas Beach Resort & Spa

CHILDREN MORE THAN WELCOME Pictured above, several pools at the Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa.

S

et in a tropical paradise on Sal

with the kids at the water park and

Island, alongside the spectacular

For example, the Baby Club, for

enjoying exquisite cuisine are just

children between the ages of 6

Cape Verdean Algodoeiro beach, the

some of the luxuries you can revel in

months and 4 years of age, offers fun

Dunas Beach Resort & Spa offers the

at this all-inclusive resort, which offers

activities such as the mini check-in,

kind of facilities and services that make

a range of accommodation styles,

Meet Splash & Friends, mini snorke-

travelling with children a breeze.

including large villas, luxurious suites

lling, games on the terrace, contests,

and stylish studio apartments.

a mini buffet, dancing, a mini aqua

‘The resort’s beautiful landscaped grounds and stunning location right

Five large, freshwater pools include

gym, water floats, a mini aquati

by the ocean has everything required

outdoor and indoor children’s facili-

to create lasting and luxurious holiday

ties whilst a palm tree-lined boulevard

memories,’ explains Kais Mbarek, the

with bars, restaurants and retail out-

to 12 years old) also offers a number

hotel’s general manager. ‘It is geared

lets all make up some of the attractions

of exciting activities, similar to those

towards the needs and requirements of

which allow this hotel to be a leading

of the Baby Club but adapted for this

all families, big and small, with various

paradise destination for family travel.

age group.

along with a pool and slide, a water

CUSTOMISED SERVICES JUST

to 17 years old – activities inclu-

park, mini disco, shows, clubs for kids

FOR CHILDREN With specialised monitors for each

de graffiti workshops, DJ classes,

and teens, games, and much more.’

In addition, while the kids take

age group, the Kids Club is able to

workshops, video editing, karaoke,

part in different water games, parents

accommodate children of all kinds

football competitions, volleyball

can watch the sunset over the beach.

with activities designed by professio-

competitions, beach cleaning (Soli-

Relaxing at the YHI Spa, having fun

nals with their best interests at heart.

darity Day) and movies.

disco and films The Kids & Co Mini Club (from 5

For the Teenagers’ Club – from 13

activities for children and families,

video games, snooker, photography

THE

GOOD LIFE

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

Red Level restaurant in the Palacio de Isora is

INSPIRED

BY THE SEA

Above, La Terrace restaurant. On the opposite page, some of chef Jorge Peñate’s creations.

A

boutique hotel within a hotel?

La Terrace (exclusive for guests of

director of Red Level at the Hotel

Yes, the exclusive services

Red Level) has freshened its con-

Palacio de Isora.

Traditional dishes – stews, soups

offered by Red Level always exceed

cept – its philosophy is now based

customer expectations, and as for the

more on the sea. ‘A menu that is

and homemade broths form the basis

culinary offerings – every last detail is

90% inspired by the ocean, where

of their cuisine, finished with a delic -

taken care of.

we find the best raw ingredients

te presentation – different techniques

This is the case for the Hotel Palacio de Isora, whose restaurant

seafood, shellfish, fish, cephalo

-

ds, seaweed’, says Lucas Toran, the

surprise the customer with a variety of textures and strong flavours

IN CHARGE OF THE KITCHEN IS CHEF JORGE PEÑATE, WHO PREPARES TRADITIONAL CANARIAN CUISINE WITH FRENCH COOKING TECHNIQUES, HINTS OF ASIAN SPICES AND UNEXPECTED FLAVOURS. In charge of the kitchen is chef Jorge Peñate, who prepares traditional Canarian cuisine with French cooking techniques, hints of Asian spices and unexpected flavours. Also the ingredients are obtained from products with a mainly Canarian origin: ‘On our menu, customers will find several dishes that are entirel locally sourced,’ says Toran.

The restaurant is open for dinner and offers food à la carte as well as a five-course tasting menu which includes dessert, paired with Canarian wines and French champagne.

Another more extensive menu includes seven courses and a dessert, paired with its corresponding wine, served in a private palapa with a personal waiter. ‘Guaranteed success for a special occasion like an engagement or anniversary,’ suggests Red Level’s director.

The views from La Terrace restaurant are a classic which never lose their grandeur. A terrace overlooks the Atlantic, with incredible views of the island of La Gomera and Tenerife’s most spectacular sunset.

‘The best time to come is at dusk.

I recommend customers start with a glass of champagne and enjoy the sunset and the changes in the light at nightfall. The flames of the stoves the candles and the glitter of the sea make La Terrace a magical and romantic place,’ Toran concludes.

THE

GOOD LIFE

INSTAGRAM TRAVEL CORNER

#TheNewMagaluf Meliá Hotels International: @melia.hotels.international

Even if you had never imagined, this is what happens in Magaluf.

@megsharris7. Sol Barbados. Mallorca, Spain.

Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@amywilson_. INNSiDE Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@norah_kim_mhi. Meliá Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@life_with_the_edwards. Meliá Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

House The Studio. Mallorca, Spain.

@wiebkembg. INNSiDE Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@veronikatumovaa. Meliá Calviá Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@amaury_dsv. Meliá Calvia Beach. Mallorca, Spain.

@alecolantuono. ME Mallorca. Mallorca, Spain.

@andreagrompone. INNSiDE @dinara_13. Sol

@lila_lourenco. Sol Barbados. Mallorca, Spain.

@carokarmann. Sol Wave House All Suites. Mallorca, Spain.

#ALifeWellLived Gran Meliรก Hotels & Resorts: @gran_melia

Gran Meliรก Hotels & Resorts into the realm of luxury emerges a bold new vision of what it means to live well, away from home.

@lirona_yaakobi. Hotel de Mar. Mallorca, Spain.

Villa Agrippina. Rome, Italy. de Isora, Spain.

@albertopanal. Palacio de Isora. Tenerife - Guia de Isora, Spain.

@jocyabe. Palacio de los Duques. Madrid, Spain.

@gran_melia. Palacio de los Duques. Madrid, Spain.

@dianashealthyliving.

@nataliadelgadobello. Palacio de Isora. Tenerife - Guia

@gran_melia. Palacio de Isora. Tenerife - Guia de Isora, Spain.

@gran_melia. Hotel de Mar. Mallorca, Spain.

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Share the most amazing content of your stay and win 50.000 pts MeliรกRewards 1. Generate attractive content of your experience in our properties 2. Share it in your social media profiles tagging @melia.hotels.international + #MyHolidaysByMelia 3. Share the most spectacular contend and win 50.000 pts MeliรกRewards

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THE

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BUSINESS & TOURISM

MELIÁ CASTILLA, A LEADER in the European MICE-sector hotel industry

panoramic lift. Once they arrive, the individualised attention they receive ‘perfectly fits the needs of the xecutives – presidents, CEOs, general directors, etc. – who often attend these events,’ remarked Bartolomé Casasnovas, director of Meliá Castilla.

‘They are extraordinary potential guests,’ he added. Casasnovas also highlighted The Level’s exclusive work area, reserved spaces and other comforts such as a private check-in and check-out process.

Among a host of other spaces available to reserve, the director mentions that the Lounge stands out ‘not only for its facilities but also for its views of our gardens and pool, complete with personalised attention from the very beginning. Our dedicated catering staff keep the buffet up and running all day, always stocked with fresh food and drinks.’

Meliá Castilla is also home to the top-of-the-line Caroli Health Club ¬– one of the many amenities that give MICE guests a well-deserved break from their marathon-like workdays.

Here they can enjoy soothing facials,

M

Pictured above, The Level Lounge at the Meliá Castilla hotel in Madrid – complete with exclusive service.

body massages, exfoliation and sigeliá Castilla has been ranked

With recent improvements to its

second in Europe in Cvent’s

cutting-edge auditorium, which can

nature ritual experiences, such as the Diamond Ritual from Natura Bissé.

2019 Top Meeting Hotels list – a

hold more than 500 people, Meliá

For those guests who are keen on

ten-step improvement from last year,

Castilla continues to highlight its

keeping fit during their sta , the hotel’s

which has catapulted the hotel to

commitment to excellence. In total, the

gym is open 24 hours a day. Not only

Spain’s top position.

hotel has dedicated more than 7,000

does it have natural lighting, but its

Leaders in event management te-

square metres to events and meeting

latest training equipment makes for an

chnology, Cvent based its rankings on

spaces, and offers 32 multifunctional

enhanced exercise experience.

an analysis of MICE-related activity at

rooms, as well as completely persona-

the hotels within its network. In 2018,

lised experiences.

What’s more, the concierge service is available for booking restaurants, entertainment, sporting activities and

the MICE sector brought more than 14 billion euros and 42 million overnight

SPECIAL BENEFITS EXCLUSIVE TO

private meeting rooms. And in order

stays to the European tourism industry.

MICE GUESTS AT THE LEVEL Additionally, Meliá Castilla boasts

to stay sharp the entire day, guests

hosted 3,000 events attended by a total

The Level – Meliá’s brand of exclu-

options at hand from morning to late

of 300,000 people, filling 100,000 room

sive services that enhance its MICE

at night. A selection of Spanish and

to host 125,000 guests, solidifying its

and bleisure offerings. To gain access

international press is also available

standing as a leader in the MICE sec-

to the completely renovated rooms

for staying up to date on what is hap-

tor in Spain – specifically in Madrid

in The Level, guests take an elegant

pening all over the world.

In the same year, Meliá Castilla

have a wide range of food and drink

Tea time is Mmmm time‌

Make time for tea with the Lipton pyramid experience.

THE

GOOD LIFE

A NEW WELLNESS

Meliá Hotels & Resorts now includes

RITUALS AMENITIES

for guests in its hotels in Spain and the EMEA region

T Rituals has designed a range of exclusive products for the Meliá group.

he Meliá Hotels & Resorts

Rituals has designed a range of

Yi Yi Ren, which has been used for

brand has chosen the well-

exclusive products for Meliá hotels.

centuries in China for its nutritional

known cosmetics brand Rituals as

The products are based on the

and medicinal properties.

its provider of guest amenities for

‘Ritual of Dao’ collection, which

their hotels in Spain and the EMEA

contains soothing ingredients like

cient Chinese philosophy that seeks to

region. Inspired by the wisdom and

White Lotus, a symbol of purity and

achieve the perfect harmony between

ancient traditions of Asian culture,

spiritual growth in the Far East, and

Yin and Yang. It comprises shower

‘Ritual of Dao’ is based on an an-

gel, shampoo, conditioner, hand soap and body and hand lotion. The line is completed with foaming gel and deodorant available in the suites.

The collaboration with Rituals was established due to the brand’s innovative character and commitment to the environment, which is based on the three pillars of reducing, reusing and recycling. Rituals is working to ensure that all their containers are 100% recyclable by 2023, and are already offering eco-friendly packaging options for creams, soaps and air fresheners. Rituals also uses FSC-certified or recycled paper to package their products. In fact, all wood used in its product packaging has a PEFC certification and is sourced from sustainably managed European forests.

Meanwhile, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has positioned itself as a brand that is committed to the welfare of their guests and to promoting a balanced lifestyle. This has brought about new concepts of healthy eating and fitness, as well as revital -

sing experiences such as Vitamin C Happy Showers, mindfulness and natural bath amenities.

Neil Ebbutt, Director of Travel Retail at Rituals, explains that ‘this agreement with Meliá Hotels & Resorts, one of the best known and most respected hospitality brands, highlights our commitment to

PHOTO: ANA NANCE / KENYAN TOP MODEL AJUMA TAKING A BATH WEARING A HAND-BEADED BRACELET BY MILLE COLLINES (MELIÁ SERENGETI LODGE).

strengthening our amenity offering.

'OUR GOAL IS TO OFFER AN EXPERIENCE OF COMPLETE WELLBEING THROUGH SUSTAINABLE MEANS'.

This is a key aspect of our strategy to accompany our clientele at every stage of their journey: at home, at the airport, on the plane and even at their destination. We are excited to introduce the Rituals products in keeping with the philosophy and lifestyle of the Meliá brand.’

Susanna Mander, Head of Global Marketing at Meliá Hotels & Resorts, adds that ‘this collaboration with Rituals strengthens our brand positioning, which is focused on the welfare of our customers. Our goal is to offer an experience of complete well-being through sustainable means, and having Rituals as a supplier of natural amenities helps us to make that happen’.

THE

GOOD LIFE

AWARDS

of Africa, witnessing the wonders of

BEST INTERNATIONAL

by Condé RESORT Nast Traveler 2019 MELIÁ SERENGETI LODGE

the wild such as the Great Wildebeest Migration.

In addition to providing a unique experience, Meliá Serengeti Lodge offers guests the chance to enjoy their stay in a sustainable and socially responsible manner. The hotel monitors energy efficienc , generating approximately half the energy it consumes. It also takes a green approach to waste management, with both compost facilities and a water-bottling plant which reduces the generation of plastic waste.

Pictured above, a room in the Meliá Serengeti Lodge.

M

The Meliá Serengeti Lodge also eliá Serengeti Lodge, located

sustainable approach to its opera-

places a special focus on social initia-

in the Serengeti National

tions. Located in one of the most

tives. Among other efforts, the hotel’s

Park (Tanzania), has been recognised

beautiful natural destinations, the

food and beverage service uses local

as the Best International Resort by

hotel has been designed to prioritise

produce to support neighboring

the Condé Nast Traveler Awards

the protection of its surrounding

communities, such as the regions of

2019. The award recognises one of

environment.

Arusha and Manvara. Furthermo-

Meliá Hotels & Resorts’ flagship

The hotel offers stunning views

re, the hotel has employed several

hotels, as well as its dedication to

of the savannah, featuring natu-

Massai staff, which makes up most of

providing the best experience based

ral terraces that face the slopes of

the security team, alongside other po-

on authentic Spanish hospitality.

Nyamuma. From here, you can see

sitions. With their unique understan-

the Mbalageti River Valley. This is

ding of the Serengeti, they are able to

where guests can discover the heart

provide invaluable advice.

Meliá Serengeti Lodge is a cuttingedge hotel that takes a totally

THE

GOOD LIFE

WINTER & LEISURE

Meliá Royal Tanau

A SKIER’S DREAM The spectacular views from the rooms at the Meliá Royal Tanau.

Y

But if we’re talking about relaxa-

ou don’t need to be a good

of the best ski hotels around. Lying

skier to realise that the Meliá

1,700 metres above sea level, the

tion, then there’s nothing better or

Royal Tanau, at the foot of the

bedrooms at the Meliá Royal Tanau

more appropriate than the hy-

Baqueira-Beret slopes in the Aran

offer views of the Aran Valley and

drothermal circuit and the extensive

Valley, one of Spain’s most exclusive

the nearby ski slopes. Its wide range

menu of treatments offered at the Yhi

ski resorts, is a true gem. This five

of rooms include cosy attic duplexes

Spa. With an almost non-stop sche-

star boutique ski hotel is ideal for

for 4 people – perfect for the whole

dule that runs from 1pm to 10pm, its

those who prefer a friendly, customi-

family. The deluxe rooms are spa-

treatments include sports and rela-

sed style of service.

cious and combine modern design

xing massages, rituals, face massages,

with a relaxing colour palette. All

refl xology and much more.

After a snow-filled day with your partner or family, there comes a time

rooms are fitted with hydromassage

to relax. Right next to the Esquirós

bathtubs, including the Grand Suite

A BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS

ticket offices and lifts, you’ll find on

with mountain views.

The Meliá Royal Tanau buffet has become an attraction in itself. The buffet offers hot dishes, seasonal fruit, selections of cold cuts and cheeses, bread, various flavoured olive oils, cereals yoghurts, dried fruit and juices. Besides the buffet, the hotel is home to the famous international restaurant, Eth Cauder, whose menu offers diners a gastronomical tour of the Aran Valley with local dishes, including pâté, foie, cheese, stew, Tanau steak, and more. And in addition, there’s a Snack Bar with an appetising menu, which includes one of the resort’s most sought-after dishes, the Royal Tanau hamburger – 250 g of beef with onion, roasted tomato, cured cheese and tender sprouts.

The hotel also organises experiences for guests, immersing them in the local culture, from snow racquet expeditions exploring the interesting surroundings of the hotel to a picturesque Romanesque tour through the Aran Valley. And who could forget the exciting dog sledding rides also available at the resort.

PROMO

TM

From used to useful In 30 years of partnership, Diversey

After a great start in Vietnam and

soon joined by the Paradisus Cancun.

and Melia have always kept striving for

Indonesia, successfully followed

Altogether, those two properties can

outstanding guest experiences, whilst

by Myanmar and China, Melia and

create up to 2000 soap bars per month.

protecting the environment and caring for

Diversey have recently expanded Soap

Enough to make a substantial impact,

local communities in need.

For HopeTM in the Caribbean and in

and to facilitate the lives of a large

Central America.

number of children and families. And

A meaningful example is our collaboration around Soap For Hope TM, an

Daniel Lozano, Managing Director

this number keeps growing: Melia

innovative upcycling program that creates

of the Paradisus by Melia in Punta

and Diversey now ambition to jointly

economic and social value out of solid soap

Cana, Dominican Republic, pioneered

operate the program in Iguazu, Playa

waste, left behind when guests check out

the launch in the region, and was

del Carmen and Los Cabos.

of their rooms. This waste is collected, and then reprocessed with the support of nonprofit organizations and local communities to be turned into new soap bars.

With this initiative we aim at: · Saving lives by providing access to free soaps to people desperate for proper sanitation, · Enhancing livelihood of local communities by providing them another way to make money for their families, · Protecting the environment by avoiding waste to go to landfill

Soap For Hope TM, an innovative upcycling program that creates economic and social value out of solid soap waste.

THE

GOOD LIFE

TRAINING AND THE FUTURE

has welcomed 23 participants from around the world. Five of those candidates belong to our company and are a clear example of the talent that Meliá brings to the sector. In this edition of the programme, we’ve been represented by our colleagues Achille Travaglini from Meliá White House (United Kingdom); Jindrich Stipek, from Paradisus Playa del Carmen (Mexico); Joana Portella, from Meliá Desert Palm Dubai (United Arab Emirates); Erick García, from Meliá Hanoi (Vietnam) and Anung Prihastomo, from Gran Meliá Jakarta (Indonesia). Being the hotel company that has brought the most talent to this edition is a matter of great pride.

It gives us confidence to know tha our internal commitment is also felt and recognised externally. This pride certainly helps us to improve our customers’ experiences.

Thanks to this initiative from ICEX, the participants have been able to complete exclusive training at the Basque Culinary Center in San Sebastián, a temple for the study

Meliá participates in the ICEX

SPANISH GASTRONOMY Training Program

of Spanish cuisine. It was here that they learned about our most valued products like olive oil, wine and seafood, as well as acquiring other knowledge that will help to turn our hotel into a gastronomic destination. This training was completed with a ‘journey of discovery’ of different cities for participants to witness, first-hand, various culina y traditions and local produce from different places. Burgos, Segovia,

Above, a delicious tapa at El Burladero – one of the many inviting spaces at the Meliá Colón hotel in Seville.

T

Madrid, Seville and Almería were he Meliá group continues its

the Spanish Gastronomy Training

some of the places that were visited.

mission to act as an ambassa-

Program has just taken place, orga-

It was certainly a unique experience

dor for Spanish gastronomy and

nised by ICEX, the public body that

for our participants and a great asset

to remain a global benchmark by

promotes the internationalisation of

that will reinforce the talent that

offering its customers the best ex-

Spanish companies.

exists in our company and help us

perience of Mediterranean cuisine.

On that note, the second edition of

This programme, aimed at catering professionals in the hotel industry,

to continue to be the largest Spanish hotel chain in the world.

THE

GOOD LIFE

ART AND THE AVANT-GARDE

ME by Meliá presents

DEEP MEDITATIONS at Sónar+D 2019

L Some of the guests (journalists and influence s) at the Sónar+D installation for ME by Meliá 2019.

ast July in Barcelona, luxury

Akten created the piece, known as

sation, with projections moving to

hotel brand ME by Meliá

Deep Meditations, by transforming

music generated from a combination

joined forces with Sónar+D for the

the concept that he had previously

of natural and synthetic sounds

second year in a row at the Sónar+D

developed at the Atrium at ME

retrieved from YouTube videos.

congress on creativity, technology

London into a dazzling immersive

and business. The congress took

experience. The 96-square-metre

Akten made a masterful presentation

the form of an imposing installation

piece sought to connect Sónar+D

about his work, allowing everyone to

that became a meeting point for the

2019 participants to their inner selves,

gain a first-hand look into his innov -

creative community, an exhibition

through a range of conceptualised

tive ways of understanding art, in turn

space which was open all day long.

meditations created by Akten himself.

giving authentic meaning to the piece.

It featured a captivating audio-visual

The meditations were accompanied

During the remainder of the Sónar+D

piece by the renowned artist Memo

by the messages that were transmit-

event, a ‘coach’ who had received

Akten, inspired by the intricate pro-

ted by this audio-visual work of art.

special training from the artist brought

cesses of the mind as well as inner self discovery.

On each day, as an added bonus,

In the installation, images and

participants on exclusive 15-minute

sounds evoked an immersive sen-

inductions into Deep Meditations.

backdrop. Lesya Starr and Andoni

Here, they were able to delve into the universe of the creator and explore the abstract processes related to nature and technology, present in the images and sounds that give shape to this space.

Additionally, the ME Sitges Terramar hotel became an epicentre for the activities carried out as a result of the collaboration between Sónar+D

IMAGES AND SOUNDS EVOKED AN IMMERSIVE SENSATION

sessions that incorporated elements of Akten’s art, such as sound as a tool to heal the mind, body and soul.

Thanks to its close ties with Sónar+D, ME by Meliá has strengthened its connection to artistic imagery and to Barcelona – the home of its next big opening, ME Barcelona.

and ME by Meliá. The hotel – loca-

The hotel is set to open in the

ted 30 minutes from Barcelona – put on a ‘holistic brunch’ where healthy,

Leiva led Sound Healing meditation

The hotel also incorporated a

spring of 2020 and will be located

fermented cocktails created by

spirituality and music-based activity

on Carrer de Casp and Passeig de

mixologists Dave Elliot and Magel

into its wellness program – complete

Gràcia – one of the main arteries of

Monroi took centre stage.

with beautiful views of the sea as a

the Catalan capital.

THE

GOOD LIFE

LIFESTYLE

Meliá Hotels International, with its holistic approach to leisure, business and wellness through a service and atmosphere designed to encourage

INNSiDE Calviá Beach, the first venture for the

LIFESTYLE BRAND in a resort destination

local socialising and experiences.

‘We are very satisfied to conclud our project with the arrival of the INNSiDE by Meliá brand, a new way to appreciate the transformation of the destination,’ shares Gabriel Escarrer, vice chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. ‘With 24 establishments around the world, this brand will make the hotel even more brilliant, aspiring to be a meeting place where residents and visitors can come together to discover the new Magaluf.’

The hotel offers 272 rooms decorated

Above on the left, the facade of the INNSiDE Calviá Beach hotel – comprised of two buildings linked together by the iconic suspended pool. To the right, a room with sea views.

M

in a modern, refreshing style, including eliá Hotels International has

pools that the company opened last

a selection of suites with solariums and

announced the arrival of its

year has been converted into INNSi-

direct access to the pool. Also, all of the

new brand INNSiDE in Calviá, Ma-

DE Calviá Beach. The rebranding of

rooms have a free minibar filled wit

jorca. This initiative brings INNSIDE's

its latest hotel marks the completion

organic, healthy refreshments.

definitive xperience to the desti-

of the company’s Magaluf transfor-

nation, inspired by the lifestyle of

mation project, started in 2012.

today’s travellers. This summer, the

INNSiDE by Meliá has established

hotel with the suspended, hanging

itself as one of the lifestyle brands of

Guests can start the day with a fresh, healthy breakfast at The Food Factory buffet, and afterwards, relax next to Europe’s largest hanging pools

Mediterranean, has become a

at Rooftop Nine, with its sea views and Mediterranean cuisine, a wide variety of cocktails and great music all day, as well as a summer-long programme of local events.

For dinner, guests can choose from six options at Momentum Plaza, next to the hotel. This space brings together a variety of gastronomic offerings like

FOR DINNER, GUESTS CAN CHOOSE FROM SIX OPTIONS AT MOMENTUM PLAZA.

hotbed of innovative holiday experiences thanks to the renovation of more than 3,500 of Meliá Hotels International’s rooms in the area.

The ‘Calviá Beach’ project has meant the transformation of the whole chain of Meliá Hotels International in Magaluf, and the creation of

Urban Food, The Good Burger, Udon,

innovative holiday concepts in res-

La Mala Vermutería, Che Restaurant

ponse to current trends. With a total

or Italian Loft. Momentum Plaza also

Beach is a hotel that’s free of single-

of almost €250 million invested by the

offers premium clothing, shoes, acces-

use plastics. Guests will find sustain -

company and its partners, Meliá has

sories and gift brands such as Mango,

ble and ecological solutions instead of

committed to rebuilding one of the

Women’s Secret, Springfield, Heymo

bottles or plastic straws. The hotel also

pioneer tourist holiday destinations in

Koala Bay and Ale-Hop.

offers bicycles to rent as an alternative

the Mediterranean, ‘giving a second

way of getting around. Moreover,

chance to Magaluf’, as put by the Vice

It’s open 24/7 so you can keep up with

the brand promotes local culture and

Chairman and CEO of the group,

your exercise routine at any time of

art as a means to help guests connect

Gabriel Escarrer.

the day. For those who need to host

with their holiday destination. The-

a work meeting, the hotel offers two

refore, the decor locally inspired, just

investment of €45 million) was the

rooms with all the equipment and

like the cuisine.

creation of Momentum Plaza – a pe-

Infit is the cutting-edge hotel gym

His latest great initiative (with an

destrian plaza fitted with well-know

technology necessary.

CALVIÁ BEACH,

fashion and restaurant brands – and a

A 360º EXPERIENCE Magaluf, one of the first holiday

new hotel characterised by its hanging

the environmental strategy of Meliá Hotels International – INNSiDE Calviá

destinations in Majorca and the

to INNSiDE Calviá Beach.

Additionally, thanks to INNSiDE by Meliá’s sustainable policies – part of

pools, which has just been rebranded

A view from underneath the glassbottomed suspended pool at the INNSiDE Calviá Beach, located on the hotel’s rooftop.

VIETNAM - INNSIDE HALONG BAY

ILLUSTRATION: FÉLIX DÍAZ DE ESCAURIAZA

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