Mstyle #7 by Meliá Hotels International

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

S T Y L E

AFRICA NOW

FASHION IN THE SERENGETI: PURELY EXOTIC. ME DUBAI: THE LEGACY OF ZAHA HADID. BUSINESS AND PLEASURE IN KUALA LUMPUR. ME BUENOS AIRES AND IGUAZÚ: MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME. VIETNAM FOR RESTLESS EXPLORERS. A TRIP THROUGH UNDISCOVERED CUBA.

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EDITORIAL

he words on the cover of this issue, ‘Africa now’, reflect Meliá Hotels International’s renewed commitment to Africa. The company has just opened an already iconic hotel, the Meliá Serengeti Lodge, right in the heart of the Serengeti National Park—a wildlife paradise par excellence. It’s a mysterious and increasingly inviting continent for the world of tourism and travel, in which Meliá already has 16 hotels (open or in the process of opening) in countries like Tanzania, Mozambique, Morocco and Cape Verde. This issue of MStyle will showcase both the beauty of the Serengeti and our idyllic holiday destinations on the island of Sal, one of the most spectacular sites in Cape Verde. We’ll introduce you to the future ME Dubai hotel, the final architectural jewel of the brilliant architect Zaha Hadid. It will open its doors in late 2018, marking the start of a new era in the Middle Eastern hospitality and lifestyle industry. Long before establishing ourselves in Africa and the Middle East, we were the first Spanish hotel company to expand into Asia, where we now have 45 hotels in operation or under construction. This magazine will take you to one of today’s most magical and coveted international destinations, Vietnam, where the Meliá group already operates 10 hotels, three of which will open this year in the capital city of Ho Chi Min, and we'll visit as well the magnificent city of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. Our legacy as a leader in leisure hospitality is also closely linked to the Caribbean and Latin America. Our latest paradise is the Meliá Iguazú at Iguazú Falls in Argentina, which we recommend that you visit at least once in your lifetime. This issue’s voyage through the Americas is completed by the most recent hotels opened in Cuba, which offer much more than spectacular beaches and stunning natural surroundings. These charming hotels are located in the historic cities of Camagüey, Cienfuegos and Trinidad, helping Meliá to diversify its scope and promote local culture and a more sustainable tourism. Art and the connection between travellers and their destinations are essential elements of the Gran Meliá brand. Always at the forefront of luxury and refinement, it’s characterised by a strong sense of Spanish heritage. To this end, Gran Meliá will become a patron of the arts in the Spanish capital by sponsoring the ‘Meninas Gallery’ project, which is explored in these pages. This completes our section on art, dedicated in this issue to one of the world’s most important contemporary art fairs—ARCO in Madrid—and featuring an interview with its director. And for those who never get tired of learning, in ‘The Observatory’ we hope to bring you one step closer to the fascinating universe of the digital customer journey, which is helping us to revolutionise the guest experience. I’d like to conclude with a reminder of Meliá’s deep commitment to society and the environment, with the goal of contributing to a better world through our work in the hotel industry. MStyle focuses its lens on a project conceived in Asia that has the potential to make a real difference, which we plan to expand in the future: ‘Soap for Hope’, developed by Meliá Hotels International in collaboration with the leading company Diversey. Thank you for your trust in us—and thank you for reading MStyle. STYLE

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

THE M E L I Á H OT E LS INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

S T Y L E MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS VICE PRESIDENT

María Umbert

GLOBAL BRAND STRATEGY & MARKETING VICE PRESIDENT

Anthony Cortizas

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Ana Rubio

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

Gracia Vasco, Nerea Valencia PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER

Pepa Olmedo

CORPORATE BRAND & MARKETING SERVICES DIRECTOR

Enric D’Abadal

CORPORATE BRAND & MARKETING SERVICES MANAGER

Mario Tirado

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:

Félix Lorenzo, Ana Nance, Mirta Rojo. FEATURE WRITERS: Arantxa Neyra, Gema Monroy, Vicky Vilches, Elena del Amo, María Crespo, Noelia Ferreiro, Yvonne Solé, Lidia González, Carmen Reviriego, José María de Pablo, María Casbas ILLUSTRATORS: Jaime Martínez, Jorge Arranz. TRANSLATOR: EvaContents RESEARCH

Reyes Domínguez (DIRECTOR) Cristina Verd, Eva Vergarachea.

PHOTO: ANA NANCE

PRODUCTION

Rosana Vicente, Fernando Bohúa, Juan Ignacio Bocos. PRINTING: Rotocobrhi y AGS. 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.

Our cover girl, the Kenyan top Ajuma, in front of the artistic mural of the lobby of the new Meliá Serengeti Lodge, with hand drawn kuba inspired carbon print kimono tunic in silk crepe, off white silk crepe wide leg pant and polished brass with black sisal pendant necklace. All by Milles Collines.

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THE M E L I Á H OT E LS INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS

NO.7 SPRING / SUMMER 2018

S T Y L E COVER PHOTO: Ajuma in the panoramic suite of the new Meliá Serengeti Lodge, with a handdrawn, Kuba-inspired printed silk crepe kimono, a stone grey rope belt and dyed bone and brass earrings. Total look by Mille Collines. Photography: Ana Nance Styling: Nanmyak by Mille Collines. Hair and makeup: Nallah Sangaré.

NEW DESTINATION

We discover a few old colonial cities that are the perfect places to get to know the real Cuba.

SUNNY DAYS

You’re sure to find the perfect hotel for you on the island of Sal, Cape Verde.

SO COOL

IN THE FIRST PERSON

144

FOOD & BEVERAGE

restaurant Arado, in Madrid.

architect Zaha Hadid, a landmark

146

accomplishment.

The Palau de Congressos in Palma

74 Accessories to help you enjoy the sun.

THE GOOD LIFE

The latest news from the group.

The Meliá Serrano hotel’s new ARCHITECTURE

The ME Dubai is the final work of

143

BUSINESS TOURISM

celebrates a successful year. THE OBSERVATORY

We report on the customer journey and

148

management of big data.

The Spa My Blend by Clarins at the

A NEW WELLNESS

Gran Meliá Rome Villa Agrippina is one FASHION

We travel to the Serengeti National Park

more reason to visit the Eternal City.

A reflection on the authenticity of art

to visit the Meliá Serengeti Lodge with

150

and the artist.

one of Kenya’s top models.

An overview of the most enticing events.

102

152

HOSPITALITY FOR A BETTER

IN THE CITY

A PASSION FOR GOLF

MELIÁ FOR FAMILIES

WORLD

The city of Buenos Aires always gives us

Stay at the Shanghai Parkside hotel and

Projects like Soap for Hope bring a smile

another reason to return.

explore the Shanghai Disneyland Park.

114

154

back to children’s faces.

ART

We focus in on Madrid’s ARCO fair and the city itself, where the group’s hotels are committed to supporting the arts.

TRENDY

MELIÁ FOR ADULTS

The ME Sitges breathes glamour into this

Active beach holidays at the new Sol

city beside Barcelona.

Beach House Fuerteventura.

124

156

SPECIAL: POOLS

OUR PARTNERS

Dive into these dreamy swimming

SAP and Beso Beach join the Meliá

pools— priceless.

Hotels International family.

in Kuala Lumpur:

130

158

a unique destination where tourism and

We show you two hidden hotels designed

Some of the recognition we’ve recently

business blend together.

for the restless explorer.

received throughout the world.

BLEISURE

We travel the city to tell you what to do

SWEET & SUITE

AWARDS

‘We must understand customers’ habits and personalise what we offer in each of the micro-moments we have with them. Customers send us lots of signals, and today’s technology enables us to transform this information into offers with high added value.’ Manuel Riego, Vice President of Global Digital Sales & Marketing at Meliá Hotels International (page 80)

SO COOL

WOMAN

STYLING: MARĂ?A CASBAS PHOTOGRAPHY: MIRTA ROJO

1 2 4

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IN THE FIRST PERSON

ART: A PURSUIT FOR THE BRAVE

Carmen Reviriego Author of four books related to art and patronage, and member of the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute’s Cultural Committee in New York and the editorial board of Forbes Life Latin America for artistic subjects. She’s also a founding partner of Callia, a company that works in Spain and Latin America and provides art advising from an artistic and social perspective. In addition, she has driven two initiatives with the goal of promoting art patronage: the IberoAmerican Prizes for Art Patronage, which have been established as Iberian America’s most important awards in this field, and La Suerte de Dar (The Luck of Giving).

When a creator decides to devote their career to their craft and be an artist for a living, they must be aware that they’re taking full responsibility for putting their entire life at risk. Value is, from the beginning, an essential component of the art world. Only a mature person should take this kind of decision. There are thousands of artists wandering around New York, London, Berlin and beyond, searching for an opportunity to exhibit their work or find someone to represent them, help them or give them a chance. 80% of them won’t succeed, and the vast majority won’t have the strength to give up and throw themselves into another career. Even then, the artistic calling defies all reasoning and reason itself, just as it has for centuries and just as it will continue to do, in accordance with the quirks of each era. All art that is transcendent, destined to last over time, comes from the sincere and passionate need of its creator to show the world ‘their ’ world, from the standpoint of a subjective—and therefore unique—experience. Artistic creation demands a true surrender of oneself, in the most literal and tragic sense of the word. Many attributes are needed in order to achieve this, but above all it requires enormous faith and loyalty to oneself: to one’s way of being in—and therefore seeing—the world, as well as the courage to face it and, at times, confront it. The practice of creation comes solely from an artist’s act of generosity towards others, with whom they want and need to share their essential and transcendental experience of the world. Those of us who love art have a passion for life; so much so that we wish to enrich our own lives through the experience of others’, bestowed, in the case of the artist, through their work. Good art is not aristocratic—it’s simple. It requires nothing more than a receptive predisposition and trust in the artist. Some may ask, ‘Where’s the act of bravery here?’ A sincere journey within, to the deepest parts of ourselves, is always an act of bravery. And for those of us who work in the art world, what value is needed? The kind that demands navigation of the dangerous line between the ‘price’ of a work of art and its true value. Yes, for those of us who work in the art market, it’s an act of courage to assume the enormous responsibility of safeguarding the dignity of the work and the respect for the artist and spectator. It’s the responsibility to avoid turning artwork into a mere commodity, an object of consumption and nothing more. Take on the risk with courage. Like all those who are truly part of the art world.

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S PA I N • C H I N A • I N D O N E S I A • I TA LY • V E N E Z U E L A

SOAP FOR HOPE HOSPITALITY

FOR A BETTER WORLD

Text: EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

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Children at a school in Vietnam receive soap from the MeliĂĄ Hanoi hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soap for Hope programme.

H A workshop in Hanoi shows children how this soap is made.

ave you ever stopped and wondered what

hand is by no means an exaggeration. According to the NGO

happens to the soap you use in hotels? In hotel lingo, those

Water.org, more than seven million children die every year

two little bars fall under the category of ‘amenities’, and

due to diseases that could be prevented by simply washing

however much you use them, they almost never run out. Do

one’s hands, such as some types of diarrhoea and pneumonia.

they get thrown away? Do they pollute the environment?

In contrast to this, each year a hotel with around 400 rooms

This was indeed what happened until very recently, but

generates an average of 3.5 tonnes of solid waste from soap.

fortunately it isn’t anymore—at least in the case of the Meliá

With a single gesture and some goodwill, these shocking

hotel group.

figures can become transformative.

Nowadays those billions of bars of soaps are no longer

‘At Diversey, we choose to work with clients that share

thrown away, and instead end up where they’re needed

our core values, like the Meliá Hotels International group,

most: often in communities close to the hotels. This is the

with whom we’ve been working for more than 40 years’.

result of a joint endeavour between the Meliá group and the

Subsequently, ‘we select an NGO according to strict ethical

company Diversey, which provides cleaning and hygiene

standards, in order to ensure that the benefits reach local

solutions and sustainability programmes.

communities’, and, once it’s selected, ‘we provide the machine

‘It’s a pioneering initiative in the hospitality world that’s

for manufacturing soap and the know-how’, says Jean-Michel,

enjoying great success, and is on track to be implemented

adding that ‘the transport of the soap is something that the

in other compatible places such as retirement homes’, says

hotel manages directly with the NGO itself’. Through this process, communities that don’t have access

Pascal Jean-Michel, director of Diversey. Diversey has created the charity project Soap for Hope,

to soap receive the supply they need, and also gain a new

which began in 2013 and is currently operating in 31

livelihood by recycling and reprocessing it, whilst hotels are

countries, 94 cities and 380 hotels, and has more than 590,000

able to meet their sustainability goals by reusing soap that

beneficiaries every year, who have already received 1,400

otherwise would have been thrown away, for which they

tons of reprocessed soap. Through this project, hotel soap is

would have had to pay.

recycled, given new life and delivered in an impeccable state to its new users.

IT’S A PERFECT CYCLE According to the Meliá Hotels International’s VP of Asia Pacific,

SOAP THAT SAVES LIVES

Bernardo Cabot, ‘the initiative was first started in our Asia

In countries with scarce resources, infant mortality is

Pacific hotels, and the company is expanding to include global

due in large part to the spread of disease and, in many

properties. Soap for Hope has already been implemented in

hygiene.

Vietnam, Myanmar and Indonesia within Asia Pacific, and is

These countries are the main

in the process of implementation in the Dominican Republic,

beneficiaries of the program.

which will be followed by Mexico and Cape Verde.

cases,

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inadequate

‘There are many people in the

By the end of 2018, our target is to have this programme

world who don’t have access to

running in all our Asia Pacific properties, and we are working

personal hygiene products. This

hard to bring it to as many hotels globally as possible’.

soap also contains mosquito-

Cabot also adds: ‘At Meliá Hotels International, we want

repellent elements’, explains

to contribute to the development of the communities in

Pascal Jean-Michel, director of

which we operate. Working closely with strategic partners

Diversey. And the situation at

such as Diversey, we aim to create a better world where basic needs are covered in an effective and fair way by adapting hotel operations to our Global CSR Model. The main pillars of our Global CSR policy are Environment, Employability and Child Welfare, and the Soap for Hope programme fits perfectly into this’.

GUILLERMO PANTOJA GENERAL MANAGER OF THE MELIÁ HANOI

In June 2017, the Meliá Hanoi spearheaded this initiative, bringing the Soap for Hope programme to the group. We spoke with the hotel’s general manager, Mr Guillermo Pantoja, who has worked hard to ensure the success of the programme. How long has the Meliá Hanoi been involved in Soap for Hope? The Soap for Hope programme was officially launched at the Meliá Hanoi in June 2017. We are proud to be the very first Meliá Hotels International property to launch this campaign.

attention from our customers, especially our in-house guests.

How does the hotel run this

They can contribute to the

programme on a daily basis?

community by taking part in the

The hotel manages the daily

monthly soap-making event, or

operations of the programme by

by purchasing a bar of soap. This

collecting used soap and sending it

small but meaningful action brings

to CCIHP (the Centre for Creative

them a lot of joy.

Initiatives in Health and Population, an NGO) and to Diversey. From

Is there any contact between the

there, CCIHP and Diversey are

hotel and the communities or

in charge of sanitisation and the

recipients of the project?

production of new soap bars. The

Charity trips to rural areas of North

hotel also organises a monthly soap-

Vietnam are organised monthly.

making event to raise awareness

For each event the hotel works

among its employees and customers.

in coordination with CCIHP and

The soap bars are split into two

Diversey to deliver soap to the

groups: the first is sent directly to

families there, teach them about

remote areas on monthly charity

personal hygiene and give them

trips, and the rest is sent back to the

some small gifts to support them

hotel to be displayed and sold in the

in their daily lives. We also have

Meliá Boutique, to raise funds for

a plan to support a school in Hoa

the hotel’s activities.

Binh, a mountainous province. We’ll regularly send soap to the school

What do hotel guests think about

to maintain the quality of hygiene

the programme?

for students there. We believe our

Soap for Hope is an important

continued commitment will definitely

initiative that receives tremendous

change their lives in a positive way.

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ART ARCO 2018

ARCOMadrid Madrid’s International Contemporary Art Fair has become an essential event for Spanish and Latin American art. This year’s aim was to boost business transactions at the fair itself, and to set the stage for the next edition—to be held from 20 to 24 February—in which Peru will be the guest country of honour. Text: EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

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El Diablo (2011), a piece from the Michel Rein gallery, part of ARCO 2018’s general programme.

revives art collecting

RCOmadrid is about to celebrate its 40th

anniversary. Over the years the fair has been maturing, which is reflected in its reception of visitors—museum directors, curators, critics, collectors and art lovers from around the world—who are already accustomed to booking a few days in their diaries in late February for the event. One of the focal points of ARCOmadrid is the abundance of Latin American art, representing 68% of the international presence according to data from the fair, which reached 100,000 visitors this year. In the latest edition, ARCOmadrid has achieved its objective: inviting visitors to become more familiar with contemporary art and discover that there are affordable pieces, leading to an increase in art collection at the fair. Thanks to the healthy recovery of the Spanish art market, this was a memorable edition of ARCOmadrid, with sales returning to their 2008 levels. Selected

works

included

historical

vanguards,

contemporary classics and modern art. A total of 208 galleries from 29 countries exhibited paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, video pieces, new media, drawings and engravings. Several established galleries were present, including Alexander and Bonin and Team, from New York; Thaddaeus Ropac, from Paris; Barbara Thumm; Chantal Crousel; Hauser & Wirth; and Michel Rein. There were also galleries attending the event for the first time, such as Guido W. Baudach; König Galerie; Monitor; and Van Doren Waxter, among many others. Thanks solely to the International Buyers and Special Guests programmes organised by ARCOmadrid, 300 collectors and 200 professionals from more than 40 countries visited the fair. In addition, another initiative, 'Me compro una obra', (I’ll buy a piece of art) had an impact on works costing less than €5,000 (marked with a label). It motivated many visitors to buy pieces from artists of their own generation for the first time, thus helping those artists to continue creating. Along the same lines, the Fundación Banco Santander’s implementation of the First Collectors advisory programme for the purchase of works became the perfect tool for these buyers, along with the virtual platform artsy.net, which offered the possibility of exploring the works showcased at the fair through its website and the Artsy app. The Young Collectors programme also extended an invitation to 30 young international collectors.

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AS AN EPICENTRE FOR ART ME Madrid hotel

PHOTO: DAVIT RUIZ.

During the fair, the avant-garde ME Madrid hotel, in the heart of the Spanish capital, became the place to see and be seen. This unique space provided a fun and inviting post-fair atmosphere, with an interesting and contemporary cultural programme in line with ARCO 2018. Among the numerous events were the success and good vibes experienced during the Knowledge Session, in which guests of the fair (museum directors, art critics, celebrities, etc.) had the opportunity to meet and chat in the setting of the ME hotel, which hosted artists, including those from Urvanity Art, throughout the fair. Another project that inspired much discussion was Now you see me, in which the trendiest creators customised a hotel room. Another Knowledge Session, organised in collaboration with Urvanity Art, delved into the role of ‘Women in the cultural industry beyond the feminist clichés’, by addressing a current yet uncommon theme. The session was led by three influential women of the Spanish cultural scene (Belén Polanco, Consuelo Durán and Anna Taratiel). In addition, during the month following the fair, ten artists affiliated with ARCO (from Nave Oporto) exhibited ten pieces throughout the hotel. This exhibition’s opening party, which took place at RADIO ME Madrid, was attended by well-known faces of urban art: the artists themselves, surrounded by good music, live performances and international press specialising in art, including NEO2 magazine.

Some of the various events hosted by the ME Madrid Reina Victoria hotel before, during and after the International Contemporary Art Fair (ARCO).

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Below, some of the work exhibited in the section ‘What is going to happen is not The Future’, by the New York artist Bortolami, among others.

WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN ISN'T THE FUTURE

of life. Artists who previously tackled this subject, such as

For the first time, ARCO incorporated the concept of ‘The

Salvador Dalí and Július Koller, were also present in some way,

Future’ as a starting point for research. Curators Chus

as were the visions of Lili Reynaud-Dewar, Maryam Jafri and

Martínez, Elise Lammer and Rosa Lleó selected 19 artists and

Eduardo Navarro.

19 galleries to propose their ideas of the future as a kind of training, in order to address the thought processes of artists

THE ARTISTS THAT SELL

from different generations and countries and the challenges

Among the most striking institutional and corporate purchases

they pose. Participants hailed from around the world: from

at this edition were those acquired by the ARCO Foundation,

New York, Bortolami; from Río de Janeiro, A Genil Carioca;

valued at 175,000 euros and funded by proceeds raised at

from São Paulo, Nara Roesler; from Paris, GB Agency; from

the ARCO Foundation Dinner at the Royal Theatre. The

Berlin, Gregor Podnar; and from Vienna, Emanuel Layr.

Foundation bought pieces by Amalia Pica of König Galerie;

Artists discussed ‘The Future’ in terms of an effort, of a

Armando Andrade Tudela of Fortes d´Aloia & Gabriel; Laure

continuous exercise of recognition, of producing spaces, of

Prouvost of Carlier Gebauer; Lili Renaud-Dewar of Emanuel

imagination, and of avoiding common topics and visions

Layr; Yorgos Sapountzis of Barbara Gross; Francesc Ruiz of Estrany-de la Mota; and Eva Fábregas of Tenderpixel. They will become part of the ARCO Foundation Collection, housed in the CA2M Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo in Madrid. As is tradition, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía also acquired works from a total of 23 artists including Rosa Barba, Patricia Esquivias, David Bestué, María Ruido, Inmaculada Salinas, Algirdas Seskus, Joachim Koester, Ángels Ribé and Engel Leonardo, together valued at 224,480 euros. DKV Seguros bought works by June Crespo of CarrerasMugica; Blanca Gracia of Ángeles Baños; Mar Guerrero of Formatocomodo; Rubén Grilo of NoguerasBlanchard; Federico Miró of F2 Galería; and Carlos Fernández-Pello of García | Galería, among others. The Helga de Alvear Foundation acquired the piece 'Pavilion for showing rock' by the artist Dan Graham (Hauser & Wirth), valued at $500,000, as well as the work of Carlos Bunga (Alexander and Bonin) and Chema Madoz (Elvira González). The María Cristina Masaveu Peterson Foundation bought pieces by Portuguese artist Pedro Cabrita Reis (Juana de Aizpuru). Several works were also sold by the Mayoral gallery, including ‘256 B’ by Luis Feito for 30,000 euros, among others. Leandro Navarro sold the sculpture 'Mére et enfant' by Baltasar Lobo, which reached a price of 330,000 euros. The Helga de Alvear gallery also sold pieces, such as 'La revolution será femenine’ by Marcel Dzama for 44,610 euros. At Leon Tovar, the piece 'Escritura Verde Superior' by Jesús Rafael Soto was sold for more than 800,000 euros. At the Maruani Mercier gallery, pieces by Peter Halley and

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Maurizio Cattelan were sold at prices of up to 150,000 euros. Elba Benitez (Madrid) sold photographs by Ibon Aranberri, among others. Michel Rein (Paris) sold an installation by Chilean artist Enrique Ramírez for 25,000 euros. The Marlborough gallery also sold works by Antonio López for 315,000 and 90,000 euros.

ART

CARLOS URROZ, DIRECTOR OF ARCO

“ARCO is an intellectual and sensory experience” Carlos, who has a background in law, has been the director of ARCO for seven years—but he's always been passionate about the art world. Formerly ARCO’s deputy director from 1994 to 1998, he has an indepth knowledge of national and international art galleries, thanks to his experience at the Helga de Alvear Gallery (Madrid) and his intensive work as an independent cultural manager and business expert in cultural communication. By ROSA MARQUÉS

t was once called ‘The fair that modernized Spain’

in the title of an article featuring an interview with you. How would you define ARCO today, now in its 37th edition? ARCO is an intellectual and sensory experience. In the 1980s, the fair looked more like a festival; in the 1990s it became more academic (this is where the current gallery owners were trained), and today, it’s meant to be a market platform. Now we’re focusing on attracting new collectors, museum directors and great artists, and creating a space for them to meet each other. Spain’s art market seems to have recovered. Is that why ARCO 2018 has such a clear commitment to the new wave of art collecting? At the moment the Spanish art market is solidifying the positive growth of the last few years, regaining the strength it had in 2008. At ARCO, art collecting is making a strong comeback, but it’s also important to make way for new additions. We want to bring people closer to contemporary art and to help them discover affordable pieces. What was the most expensive piece of art this year? Nature morte, by Picasso, which the Leandro Navarro gallery sold for 2.5 million euros. The piece is superb, but it’s

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On the opposite page, Carlos Urroz, director of ARCO; the King and Queen of Spain at the fair’s opening celebration; and one of the pieces acquired by the ARCO Foundation.

complicated in terms of price, assembly, concept and location, and will go to a public-private foundation in Spain. What’s the primary source of sales? Both national and foreign private collectors, as well as museums. ARCO is an important point of contact between Europe and Latin America. How is this evident?

PHOTO: PABLO MESEGAR.

This year Latin America once again represented the most significant international presence at the fair. 35 galleries from 10 countries participated, with 15 galleries coming from Brazil.

Latin American contributions have been a central part of

Are we becoming more aware of the value of art, of our

ARCOmadrid throughout its 37-year history—and this region's

personal emotional reaction to it, and of the desire for

influence at the fair continues to grow. This year Latin America

this to continue?

once again represented the most significant international presence

It depends on the person. Hopefully we are becomingly

at the fair. 35 galleries from 10 countries participated, with 15

increasingly aware of the value of an artist’s work. That’s why

galleries coming from Brazil. There were also a greater number of

it’s so important to go to the fair with an open mind, but also to

art professionals, collectors and special guests from Latin American

visit museums, galleries and art centres.

countries at ARCO. And next year, Peru will be the main player. How does the Organising Committee ‘cook up’ the You want visitors ‘to take in the art behind the creative

selection of galleries and artists?

process’, not just to ask about the type and cost of the

At ARCO, content is meticulously selected, both by the

piece. What tools do you need for this spirit to prevail?

Organising Committee for the General Programme and by the

It’s good that visitors ask and learn about an artist who caught

curators in the commissioned programmes, who do a great job

their eye, in order to find out more about the artist and the

of research and analysis. The General Programme’s selection

message they represent.

criteria for galleries are published in advance.

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ART

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MADRID

90 meninas will take over Madrid’s most iconic streets, thanks to the ‘Meninas Madrid Gallery’ exhibit created by Antonio Azzato, with the support of Meliá Hotels International. Text: LIDIA GONZÁLEZ

o fewer than 90 meninas (ladies in waiting),

each of them 2 metres tall, will be temporarily installed on the streets of the Spanish capital. The Meninas Madrid Gallery exhibition, by Antonio Azzato, can be enjoyed free of charge from 15 April to 15 July. You’ll only have to pass through the most important parts of the city to discover the modern version of the Sevillian painter’s work featuring Margaret Theresa of Spain. Once, in an interview with Salvador Dalí, the renowned journalist Soler Serrano asked the master of Surrealism what he would save in the event of a fire at the Prado Museum. His answer was clear: ‘Dalí would take the air, nothing less than the air, and specifically the air contained in Las Meninas by Velázquez, which is the highest-quality air there is’. And those are the words of a genius, not ours. The Prado Museum has always been one of Madrid’s great treasures. Its rooms are bursting with art and history. Not one single stroke goes unappreciated here. The star painting however, the one for which people are willing to wait in never-ending lines, the one that everyone looks for as soon as they set foot in the museum, is undoubtedly Las Meninas by Velázquez. This is more than a work of art; it’s one of the symbols

Above, the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques hotel in Madrid, soon to be a scene straight out of a Velázquez painting.

at the Plaza Margaret Thatcher for the Madrid Capital de Moda (Capital of Fashion) parade, was moved to the Plaza de Cibeles after the event.

A HOTEL LINKED TO VELÁZQUEZ

of the city. And Madrid proudly shows it off. That’s

The Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques is located right in

why the Asociación Empresarial del Comercio Textil

the heart of Madrid, beside the Royal Palace, the Royal

y Complementos (ACOTEX), the most representative

Theatre and the Almudena Cathedral. But this charming

organisation of Madrid’s fashion and retail sector, decided

19th-century building stands out not only for its perfect

to make Las Meninas the emblem of this urban exhibition.

imitation of the marvellous Madrid de los Austrias—and

The City Council of Madrid gave its unconditional

for offering one of the city’s best sunsets—but also for the

support to the project and commissioned the Italian artist

fascinating rooms that are hidden behind its Elizabethan

Antonio Azzato to design the figures, which he’s been

facade, inspired by the masterpiece of the illustrious painter

working on for years to perfect every detail.

Diego Velázquez: Las Meninas. What better stage on which

Celebrities and famous artists will contribute to all of the

to showcase one of Azzato’s avant-garde creations?

sculptures except three, which will be painted by Azzato

We asked the great architect of this initiative, Antonio

himself. Designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, actor and film

Azzato, if he’s familiar with the hotel and if it’s been chosen

director Jordi Mollá, bullfighter Enrique Ponce, Margarita

as one of the places where the Madrid Meninas Gallery will

Vargas and Vicky Martín Berrocal are just some of the public

take place: ‘Yes, it’s a spectacular site; that place lives and

figures that will participate in the Meninas Madrid Gallery,

breathes the spirit of Velázquez. I was very happy when

depicting their vision of the city.

the Gran Meliá confirmed its participation as one of our

Three meninas have arrived ahead of time. Weeks ago,

main sponsors. I think that it has an enormous synergy

one of them was placed at the southern entrance of the

with the event, and we’re planning to hold several activities

IFEMA event space, where it welcomed visitors to the

in its facilities: from the artistic intervention of some of the

International Tourism Fair (Fitur). Another was installed

meninas, which will be displayed on the street, to the event’s

inside one of the fair’s pavilions. The last one, which was

opening party’.

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ART

MADRID, ANTONIO AZZATO

Citizen of the world Painting, photography, design... he does it all. Azzato believes that any technique can be suitable for conveying a message. And right now, Madrid is lucky enough to be inundated with his art. By LIDIA GONZÁLEZ

How would you define your style? Do you have a point of reference? I’m an urban artist who reinvents and redefines the meaning of traditional pieces. My reference point is any artist who does transgressive work, whether they’re renowned or not. Velázquez, above all, did work that was centuries ahead of its time. I’ve also been influenced by Pollock’s apparent disorder, which invites selfanalysis; Rothko’s colour palettes; Koons’ majestic works; Valdés’ spectacular meninas; and Britto’s ability to put art within the

reach of everyone—for me that’s true art. You’ve studied the work of Velázquez, specifically the painting Las Meninas. Why the interest in this painter? In my search to find objects that serve as a blank canvas upon which to express myself, I realised that something was happening in the painting Las Meninas. When I studied it in depth, it hit

ince childhood, he’s always put a creative

twist on everything. His first contact with design was a

me that the silhouettes of the meninas (ladies in waiting) and

result of the family business, a factory that processes steel

their golden ratio hook the viewer. It’s no coincidence that 200

and produces furniture. He studied industrial engineering, and although he often felt that it wasn’t his thing, today he values the pragmatic side it allowed him to develop, which STYLE

helps him keep his feet on the ground. Maths helped him to realise that Las Meninas was a kind of system of equations with variables to decode, which is the purpose of what he

Art should be able to be appreciated in every space, at all times.

years after it was painted, with the royal family as its central theme, its name was changed to Las Meninas—referring to the royal servants—upon its arrival at the Prado Museum. I see this painting as a system of equations to decode, and by using the sculpture and silhouette of the menina as a blank canvas, I ask artists: ‘What does Madrid mean to you? Put that on the figure

calls ‘The Infinite Message of Velázquez’. After studying

of the menina’. Each individual message will help me reveal

interior design at Parsons (in New York) he felt the need to

the message that Velázquez has for Madrid, through the city’s

develop his sculpting skills.

contemporary art and culture.

Is taking works of art to the street an advantage, or is it a different concept to displaying them within a space? Do you have to reinvent contemporary art? I think art should be within the reach of everyone, and that’s an advantage. There should be more exhibitions like this. Look at it this way: anyone who hasn’t seen the painting Las Meninas will be even more motivated to go to the Prado and see this source of inspiration. And anyone who has already seen it will go back to admire it in person and interpret it in their own way. Art should be able to be appreciated in every space, at all times. Is art given the importance it deserves? Do you consider it important for the public to interact with it, through this kind of exhibition, in order for them to be interested in contemporary art? Art is given the importance it deserves, but regrettably it’s not within everyone’s reach. That’s why interaction with the public is

On the right, artist Antonio Azzato and one of his meninas that are scattered around the city.

essential. And that’s why the meninas have decided to take to the streets of Madrid. Can you imagine the number of selfies that are going to be taken with them and seen around the world? If only Velázquez knew... although he probably did! How long did it take you to create each of the meninas? PHOTO: MARIENNAGGB.

On the one hand, there are the blank sculptures that were inspired by everything from Velázquez and Valdés to the Falles in Valencia, which are always an ephemeral artistic spectacle that causes you to reflect. This process has taken me several years, to get to a point where I felt comfortable with a piece that would help me express myself. And on the other hand, there’s the work I do on top of the blank sculptures, which takes less time but is the key to the artistic process. Is this the first exhibition of this kind that you’ve done, on

Do you have your own gallery? Where can we

the street and of this magnitude? Has it been a challenge?

find your work?

Yes, it’s the first exhibition of this kind that I’ve done. It has

I’m currently working with Durán Online Gallery and in a couple

undoubtedly been a challenge; there were days when I was at

of design stores in Madrid—InCasa and Anmoder— as well as on

the point of throwing in the towel. It’s a lot of things to organise

social media (@artbyazzato).

at the same time, and it is by no means easy. There are many hours of work and effort behind this exhibition, and most of all

Are you currently working on a new project? (Apart from the

it requires the support of a lot of people. The event is being put

Meninas Gallery Madrid exhibition, of course.)

on thanks to the initiative of ACOTEX and the City Council

This project occupies all my time at the moment, and it doesn’t

of Madrid, through their project Madrid Capital de la Moda

end here. In addition to taking it to other Spanish cities, I want to

(Capital of Fashion). I have to thank all the people that are

go around the world with the Meninas Gallery. I want to ask each

behind all of this, both the collaborating artists and the sponsors;

city: ‘What does this city mean to you? Put that on the figure of the

without them none of this would be possible. I’m just the bridge

menina and help us reveal the infinite message that Velázquez has

to get a message across, with a beneficial purpose—which makes

for your city’. To turn the meninas into the global icon of Madrid;

it even more satisfying.

that’s what I owe Velázquez.

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Kuala Lumpur BLEISURE

The

MONUMENT CITY Elegant, modern and dynamic while staying in tune with the local culture; the Meliรก Kuala Lumpur reflects the spirit of the Malaysian capital. This makes it the ideal choice for travellers combining business with pleasure. Text: NOELIA FERREIRO

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NTAL

ome say that the existence of Kuala Lumpur must

be some kind of miracle. In this land of thick jungles, intricate roots, ravenous mosquitoes and torrential tropical rain, there blossomed—like a cartoon flashforward—the tangle of glass, steel and concrete that shapes one of the world’s most modern cities. The young capital of Malaysia was established in 1857, when a group of Chinese prospectors found tin deposits in the place where the murky waters of the Gombak and Klang rivers joined. This is precisely where its less-thaninviting name came from; for those who don’t know, Kuala Lumpur means ‘Muddy Confluence’. With the fever of this new El Dorado, the rainforest was stripped of its trees and the rivers’ shores were filled with buildings that, over time and due to British rule, took on various styles: Mughal, Malay, Victorian, Moorish.... Then, of course, came progress, and with it, the skyscrapers that sprung up here and there until the city became a sort of Asian Manhattan, albeit much more relaxed. A cosmopolitan, eccentric, somewhat chaotic city whose pulse lies between the ancient and the ultramodern, while flying the flag of savoir vivre. So many races, languages and cultures come together in Kuala Lumpur (KL) that its charm verges on madness. It’s the madness of both a futuristic city with skyscrapers and aerial monorails, and a village where the colonial past coincides with bustling ethnic enclaves. The most important are Chinatown and Little India, forming the central core of the population along with the Malaysian people. Together yet separate, these three communities coexist in harmony and mutual respect, despite the fact that each preserves its own signs of identity: temples, food, language and more.

On the left, the hotel terrace where you can dine with the skyline of the Malaysian capital at your feet. In the background, the Kuala Lumpur Tower (1995), 88 floors and 421 m tall. Below, the city’s oldest mosque, Masjid Jamek.

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sophistication with traditional Islamic imagery, and stands out among the rest of the towers that make up the city’s financial district: the so-called Golden Triangle, the vibrant heart of modern Kuala Lumpur. Here, in this forest of towering buildings, the biggest businesses, the biggest hotels, the biggest restaurants and the biggest shopping centres congregate. So do the tourists, attracted by its dazzling lifestyle and pulsating activity. Money flows, circulates and spreads. Cars parade along interconnected motorways. Everything seems to multiply at the speed of light. Right here in the commercial centre, born in the 1990s in the heat of economic growth, among the brand new contemporary architecture championed by authorities to show the world a renewed city, sits the hotel that best captures the spirit of KL. One that combines modernity and tradition, comfort and excellent service, without neglecting the local culture. The Meliá Kuala Lumpur does all of this and PHOTO: AGE.

more. Especially now, after the comprehensive renovation— carried out in various stages—that has given it a new face. According to Andrea Barbi, Marketing and Public Relations Manager of the Asia-Pacific region, ‘With the re-launch of this new Urban Chic Hotel concept, we have not only given the guest rooms and common areas a more elegant, modern

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Above, the Petronas Towers (3 minutes from the hotel by monorail). On the right, one of the rooms of the exclusive service The Level; the hotel’s spectacular facade; The Kitchen restaurant and buffet; the Garbo bar, a perfect place to relax beside the hotel’s pool; and the hotel's international buffet.

That said, multiculturalism, with its rich and shifting

and dynamic appearance; we have also endowed the whole

customs, is the trait that truly defines what’s become one

space with harmony, in a way that creates a classic style with

of the most vibrant cities in Southeast Asia (with apologies

contemporary touches’.

to Bangkok). Although it often has to compete with the

The Meliá Kuala Lumpur boasts an unbeatable location in

sprawling nature of the rest of the country, with the humid

the Golden Triangle, just steps from Times Square and right

forests fraught with friendly monkeys and the idyllic beaches

in front of the Imbi Monorail station, which connects the

that line the islands, the city is a fully fledged destination that

whole city in one amazing trip. There’s nothing like climbing

warrants a visit in its own right.

aboard this futuristic train (cool, comfortable and cheap)

The Petronas Towers, of course, have a lot to do with that.

and watching through the window as mosques, Buddhist

These twin towers are loaded with Islamic symbolism—

temples and typical alleyways speed by... seeing it all from

although at first glance they may not appear to be—and are,

a different angle.

in the eyes of many, a true architectural wonder. At a height

The Petronas are also a short walk away, across streets that

of 452 metres, the lookout-like towers were the world’s tallest

reflect the business side of the city. This is why the Meliá

buildings from 1998 to 2003 (when they were surpassed by

Kuala Lumpur, considered one of the best hotels in Malaysia,

Taiwan’s hulking Taipei 101), and today are ranked seventh

is the ideal accommodation for today’s travellers: those who

on the list of the world’s pointiest skyscrapers. Their merit,

travel for work but are also looking to experience moments

beyond caressing the clouds, lies in their embodiment of the

of leisure. ‘With its reflection of the quality standards of

image of modernity, the symbol of a 21st-century metropolis.

an international five-star hotel, and its modern, functional

The work of Argentina’s César Pelli, this monument of

design, this hotel attracts both business tourists and those

reinforced concrete, steel and glass is said to come close to perfection. Its star-shaped design unites ground-breaking

travelling for pleasure’, says Andrea. The facilities also make things easier for this kind of customer. There’s the exclusive environment of The Level, located on the top floors of the hotel (the 18th floor and up). It’s a private reception area with personalised service, where guests don’t have to worry about anything at all. There’s private (express) check-in, flexible check-out and free use

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PHOTO: AGE.

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Above, the Lobby Bar, ideal for having a cocktail after a hard day. Below it, reception. On the right, the golden statue of the Hindu god Murugan next to an isolated waterfall, 14 km from Kuala Lumpur.

of a fully equipped meeting room, as well as access to a

This distinctive feature of KL lets you leap straight from

lounge and terrace where you can sip a cocktail and enjoy

the past to the future. Business travellers will be especially

incredible views of the city. ‘On top of that, we offer another

interested in Putrajaya, the new executive capital of Malaysia,

set of services to make business stays more pleasant’, the

36 kilometres south of the city. It’s an intriguing experiment,

general manager explains, referring not only to the gym and

digitally designed and managed and based on the concept

the pool, but also to the culinary aspects of the facilities: two

of a garden city surrounding a lake, whose shores are home

bars and a restaurant offering international cuisine, with an

to the administrative entities of the Malaysian government.

open-kitchen design.

Developed by the country’s leading architects, the city

So, with all your tasks completed and your stomach

combines an amazing mix of styles, highlights of which

satisfied, you can carve out some free time to explore

include elements of Mughal architecture and Islamic

the surroundings. Start at the Masjid Jamek, the oldest

ornamentation.

mosque in the city, situated at the exact spot where the

Andrea

Barbi,

however,

continues

point

rivers join. Or at Independence Square, the city’s colonial

multiculturalism as the true expression of the essence of

heart, where the mark of history endures in the form of

the metropolis—from the diverse neighbourhoods to the

St. Mary’s Cathedral and the striking Sultan Abdul Samad

impressive Batu Caves (13 kilometres from the city), which is

Building—erected by the British, despite its resemblance to

one of the most popular Hindu shrines on the planet. Above

the Mughal style of the Taj Mahal, and bringing to mind

all, she recommends its delightful cuisine, which is a melting

'One Thousand and One Nights'.

pot of influences. ‘No one should leave the Malaysian capital without trying its local dishes: breakfast at Imbi Market, a famous ancient refuge; lunch at Ngau Kee, the oldest spot for noodles and meatballs; and dinner at Seng Huat, my favourite restaurant’, she suggests. ‘And of course durian— the king of all fruits’. In case you had any doubt.

WHAT TO DO IN

KUALA LUMPUR

stunning bar-lounge and a glass-walled terrace

Sample exotically textured cuisine in a colourful chaos of cultures. Or get glammed up for a spending spree at exclusive shops, then have dinner at the city’s priciest restaurant. All of this awaits you in Malaysia’s vibrant capital city, torn between tradition and progress.

famous twin towers. It’s a place that’s seduced

where you can almost reach out and touch the celebrities like Jimmy Choo, Tiger Woods and Valentino Rossi, both with its exquisite cuisine (as proven by the waiting list) and its cocktail menu, highlights of which include the gin-based Marini’s

Text: Noelia Ferreiro.

Sangaree and the Espresso Marteny, a fun take on the traditional martini.

· Sleep at the Meliá Kuala Lumpur

· See the sunset from Heli Lounge Bar

· Climb the Petronas

With an unbeatable location right in the Golden

There are some things you can only experience

Although there are those who will decline on

Triangle, elegant and comfortable facilities and

in KL. Watching the sun sink from a real heliport

principle, we recommend that you meet your

excellent service that’s perfectly integrated with

more than 200 metres high, for example. This

tourist quota with the buildings so central to the

the local culture, the Meliá Kuala Lumpur is the

is what happens at Heli Lounge Bar, which is

image of Kuala Lumpur. We’re talking, of course,

ideal hotel for both business and pleasure.

composed of two parts. On the one hand, there’s

about the Petronas Towers (452 metres tall),

the aeronautics-themed restaurant and bar on

which retain their iconic status despite having

· Dine on Jalan Alor

the 34th floor of the Menara KH building. On the

lost their title as the world’s tallest buildings in

To soak up the local smells, colours and flavours,

other, there’s the helicopter platform that, once

2003. These twin towers, replete with Islamic

there’s no place better than this street. It comes

closed to traffic, turns into a terrace (no walls,

symbolism, are still the world’s greatest archi-

alive when the sun goes down, creating a

no guardrails, no limits!) where you can have a

tectural wonder in the eyes of many. At the top,

memory you’ll never forget. Here, the chic city

drink and hear music by famous DJs. The views

the skybridge linking the two structures offers

gives way to the frenetic hustle and bustle of

from this unusual rooftop, accessible by way

fantastic views. Down below, the Suria Shopping

street stalls, which offer up irresistible culinary

of a steep staircase, will take your breath away.

Mall bubbles with activity at its cinema, orchestra

temptations. Jalan Alor is the true street food

Vertigo sufferers need not apply.

hall, galleries and exclusive shops.

outdoor restaurants lining the pavements where,

· Glamour galore at Marini’s on 57

· Discover the hipster haven PS156

at knockdown prices, they serve not only Malay-

In just 60 seconds, the elevator rises to the 57th

At once a restaurant-café, co-working space,

sian cuisine but also Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese

floor of the so-called Third Petronas Tower. Here

wine bar, bicycle repair shop and pop-up shop,

and more. This is where the locals have dinner,

you’ll find Marini’s on 57, the Italian restaurant

PS156 is, in short, a revived multipurpose space

knowing that the best kitchens in Kuala Lumpur

owned by businessman Modesto Marini, with a

experience: delicious dishes from endless

in Old Chinatown—an area witnessing the gentrification of KL. The project is led by architects

are those without air conditioning.

Shin Chang and Penny Ng. They’ve worked hard · Shop till you drop at M Store

to raise it from the ruins of a derelict building,

If you’re looking for sophisticated clothing with

turning it into a haven of creativity that retains

a touch of fun, this gigantic location at the Pa-

the neighbourhood’s charisma. The ground

vilion shopping centre is paradise. Considered

floor houses Chocha Foodstore, a place where

one of the most exciting multi-brand boutiques

customers can sit (cho) and drink tea (cha), with

in KL (as described by the media at its opening

an industrial aesthetic bathed in natural light that

ceremony, which featured Victoria Beckham), M

will drive Instagrammers mad.

Store unites prestigious labels like Elizabeth &

· Disconnect in the Perdana

Liang, Hale Bob, AQ / AQ and Sonia Rykiel,

botanical garden

among many others. All of them stand out for

The city’s oldest park, better known by its pre-

their bold style: neoprene dresses, printed silk

vious name (Lake Gardens), is the perfect place

blouses, skater t-shirts and so on. For those

to escape the tarmac: immense forested areas

who find it a bit too expensive, there’s always

dotted with lakes, hundred-year-old trees and

MO Outlet, with last season’s items at competitive prices.

PHOTO: AGE.

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James, Clover Canyon, Emma Cook, Jonathan

attractions like a bird and butterfly sanctuary, an insect museum, an orchid garden and a planeta-

ILLUSTRATION: JAIME MARTINEZ.

rium. All of it tidy, clean and well looked after. This place, where the British elite built their luxurious mansions in the colonial era, is now a refreshing environment where urbanites can escape the city to go running or practise tai chi. · Try durian at Chow Kit Market Those who want a truly authentic experience should sample this exotic fruit, which is native to Southeast Asia (especially Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei) and sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s not just any fruit; despite the fact that its stinky scent means its consumption is prohibited in public spaces (buses, schools, official buildings, etc.) it actually has a delicious flavour. Some people describe it as a mix of cheese, almonds and caramel. Almost every market in KL sells this delicacy, with its spiky shell and creamy, soft interior. There are even a host of all-youcan-eat restaurants that let you fill up on durians, guilt-free. · Visit the National Museum of Malaysia To get to know the country from within—its history, culture and idiosyncrasies—you have to explore this museum, housed in the elegant Muzium Negara building: a palatial structure in the rumah gadang style. Here you can carefully examine the historical and artistic background of Malaysia, from prehistoric times to the present, passing through the arrival of Islam and the colonial era. It’s educational and enlightening, illustrating each period with authentic relics of Malaysian heritage: crafts, weapons, works of art... even old train engines. · Explore Little India Located slightly north of the confluence of the two rivers, this is a real delight for the senses.

SHOPPING SPREE

The neighbourhood is actually called Brickfields (it used to be the place where bricks were manufactured to reconstruct KL), and realistically emulates a little piece of India. Picturesque alleyways emit aromas of sandalwood, temples honour Hindu gods and lotus flowers adorn stalls offering beautiful saris and colourful necklaces. Here you can also try delicious curries and fantastic vegetarian dishes, served on banana leaves rather than plates.

Among its many facets, Kuala Lumpur is also a little-known shopping paradise. This mecca of consumerism is home to three of the world’s largest shopping centres, where tax exemptions cover a wide range of items. From June to September, there’s a whole season of discounts; the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is enough to make shopping addicts lose their minds. If malls are your thing, you’ll have plenty of options: Suria KLCC, on the lower floors of the Petronas; Berjaya Times Square, which even has an indoor theme park; Pavilion KL, with major fashion brands; and Low Yat Plaza, practically a temple for electronics. On the other side of the coin are the artisanal products at Central Market and the bargains in the Buki Bintang neighbourhood, where you’ll quickly cross the invisible border that separates the modern city from the traditional blend of cultures.

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NEW DESTINATION

CIENFUEGOS, TRINIDAD & CAMAGÜEY

UNDISCOVERED

CUBA

Outside the usual circles of sand and sun, the geographic heart of Cuba closely guards three cities declared World Heritage Sites: Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Camagüey, where the Meliá group is deeply committed to developing local value.

Text: JOSÉ MARÍA DE PABLO

eliá Hotels International recently

celebrated its first 25 years in Cuba. The grand opening of

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The island’s charm is not limited to Havana and Santiago de Cuba. The land is full of hidden gems.

transformed into the enhancement of gems like these three cities.

the Sol Palmeras hotel in Varadero marked the beginning

Since the beginning of the year, the Meliá group has

of a success story—and of a lasting commitment to the

been developing several hotels in Cienfuegos, Trinidad

Cuban people. ‘It was love at first sight; for the island, its

and Camagüey, where it’s progressively implementing its

cultural and human potential and its natural conditions’, said

standards. There’s no longer any excuse to ignore the magic

Gabriel Escarrer Juliá at the 25th anniversary celebration.

of these colonial cities, with their fascinating history, strong

Now the group has taken a step further, and that initial infatuation—today an unconditional love—has been

traditions and an authenticity that’s hard to find in more commonly visited destinations.

PHOTO: AGE.

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It’s the least-explored part of Cuba, in which the Meliá group has started to operate five hotels (in Cienfuegos and Camagüey) that will soon be joined by three more in Trinidad in 2020. Ready to discover the other Cuba?

CIENFUEGOS: THE PEARL OF THE SOUTH It was founded in 1819, when a group of settlers from France and Louisiana decided to create a city on the shores of the Jagua bay. This relatively short history didn’t stop UNESCO from awarding it the title of World Heritage City in 2005, for being ‘a significant example of an architectural and urban complex embodying new ideas of modernity, hygiene and urbanism that emerged in Latin America in the 19th century’. Visiting it is like stumbling upon a 19th-century colony—a true trip back in time. You’ll be amazed by how it looks just as elegant as it did when its developers (wealthy men in the sugarcane, tobacco and coffee industries) decided to build,

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Above, the Meliá San Carlos Hotel, located right in the Historic Centre of Cienfuegos. To its right, one of the hotel's common areas at the Hotel Jagua, with a view of the colours of the Caribbean. Below it, the excellent location of the Hotel Jagua in Cienfuegos Bay.

under the principles of the Spanish Enlightenment, a perfect square of 25 blocks arranged around the grand Plaza de Armas. This square, dedicated to the poet José Martí, is home to some of the 19th-century neoclassical jewels for which the city is famous. They reflect the traces of the different cultural sensibilities that have inhabited it throughout history. For example, the French left behind the names of certain streets (Bouyon, D’Clouet and Horruitiner) and the Catalonian legacy is visible in the gorgeous Palacio Ferrer.

Its modernist style could easily be confused with that of Barcelona’s Eixample, and in 2019 it will open its doors as the new Cienfuegos Museo de Ambientes y Oficios (Museum of Environments and Trades). The palace’s tower, which can be climbed by way of a spiral staircase, offers the best views of the historic quarter, the bay and the port, from which the products of the nearby sugar plantations were exported. While work on this project is underway, you can visit the palace to learn about the restoration that’s being carried out by artisans specialised in the marble, stucco and tilework that make this bourgeois residence a genuine treasure. The Ferrer mansion’s illustrious visitors included Caruso, the Italian tenor who performed Verdi’s ‘La Forza del Destino’ at the Teatro Terry, another of the most important monuments in Cienfuegos. The theatre was a gift to the city from the man who was at that time the richest in Cuba, Tomás Terry, under the condition that the profits it earned would be used to build a school for underprivileged children. But Caruso wasn’t the only star drawn to Cienfuegos; Sarah Bernhardt, Jorge Negrete, Alicia Alonso and Joan Manuel Serrat, among others, also brought local audiences to their feet. The very same French-Venezuelan family launched the initiative to create the city’s first big hotel, Hotel La Unión. The good work of its managers turned the Unión into a landmark known for its quality service and its restaurant’s excellent French cuisine, but above all for the electric lighting installed in all of its rooms. More than 130 years later, after a renovation process in which the Meliá Hotels International standards are being progressively implemented, the 49-room hotel is enjoying a new golden age. Not far away, on Cienfuegos’ Paseo del Prado, a statue pays homage to the ‘Bárbaro del Ritmo’ (Barbarian of Rhythm): Benny Moré, native of the province and creator of unforgettable lyrics dedicated to his city. Each evening along the shores of the bay—whether on the Muelle Real or at the end of the Paseo del Prado, next to the Yacht Club or at the Palacio de Valle—the city takes on an almost magical aura. The Palacio de Valle, today transformed into an elegant restaurant, was conceived as a private residence that combined so many styles that it had to hire French, Italian, Arabic and Cuban artisans who could reproduce—in the middle of the 20th century—Gothic, Mudéjar and Venetian Byzantine styles. Right beside it is another of the Meliá group’s projects, the Hotel Jagua. This year Meliá Cuba took over its management, and it will be soon rebranded under the Innside by Meliá brand.

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On the right, the pool at the Hotel La Unión (founded in 1869) and its charming inner courtyard. Below, the island's spectacular waterfalls and views from the Gran Hotel in Camagüey, located in the old part of the city known for its ‘tinajones’.

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The reforms carried out by the hospitality group have resulted in the recovery of a valuable example of Cuban rationalism, with 174 comfortable rooms in the main building and three villas with all the facilities of a small hotel. Also in Cienfuegos, the renovated Hotel San Carlos will open its doors this year as the Meliá San Carlos Hotel. Its 56 guest rooms, in addition to a lobby bar, snack bar and rooftop garden, will offer one-of-a-kind views of the city.

TRINIDAD: CHARM AND AUTHENTICITY This was one of the first cities established by Spaniards in the 16th century, and its urban framework—carefully preserved throughout the centuries—automatically transports us back to the colonial era. It’s not hard to imagine Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, its founder and the first governor of Cuba, walking its cobbled streets or supervising the construction of the first houses with their latticed windows, wide gates and immaculate white and pastel paint jobs. Despite being one of the most touristic places in the centre of the island and the longtime port for the export of sugar produced in the Valle de los Ingenios—also declared a World

Above, the inner courtyard at the Gran Hotel in Camagüey, and , one of its rooms and the colourful setting of one of the city’s colonial streets.

Heritage Site—Trinidad hasn’t lost the peaceful nature of the rural town it is. Meliá’s plans for this colonial city will culminate in 2020 with the completion of work on two new hotels, the Meliá Trinidad and the Meliá Punta Ancón, as well as the transformation of the Hotel Ancón into the Sol House Ancón, with all the attributes of the Sol House brand.

CAMAGÜEY: A COLONIAL LABYRINTH Also known as the ‘City of the Tinajones’, it was founded during the first years of Spanish colonisation. Its streets have witnessed 500 years of history. Wells were never built here to extract water from underground, so residents subsisted on rainwater that they collected in 'tinajones' (large earthenware containers), which eventually became one of the city’s hallmarks. At the start of the 20th century there were up to 16,000 'tinajones'—one for every house. Currently around 2,500 remain, all of them preserved in the houses’ courtyards or on the streets, where they serve a decorative function. The Camagüey Historic Centre is a set of plazas and alleyways built in a maze-like manner—supposedly for defensive purposes—that contains a total of 2,843 buildings, six of which are churches with a single tower. One of those churches is the Merced, located in the STYLE PHOTO: TURISMO DE CUBA.

plaza known by the same name (officially called Plaza de

Camagüey is full of colonial buildings, restored churches and picturesque locations. Below, one of the rooms at the Hotel Colón, on Camagüey’s main street, and one of its balconies.

los Trabajadores) along with the Gran Hotel, a historical establishment opened in 1938 that has hosted guests as diverse as the Polish pianist Arthur Rubenstein and the mobster Lucky Luciano. As part of the Meliá Hotels International’s portfolio, the hotel, it’s bringing a breath of fresh air to its 72 guest rooms. Next to the square sits Camagüey’s Teatro Principal, which has been the epicentre of the city’s cultural life since it opened in 1850. Big names in Spanish cinema, including María Guerrero and Margarita Xirgú, have acted upon its stage. Despite its remoteness from the country’s leading cultural centres, the Teatro de Camagüey has its own ballet company, which offers a repertoire of international prestige. One of this year’s new developments in Camagüey is the enhancement of the Hotel Colón, another eclectic architectural jewel from the first third of the 20th century that, thanks to the agreement reached between the property and Meliá Cuba, will be the new Meliá Hotel Colón. Its 58 guest rooms offer accommodation in a building of great heritage value with colonial furnishings, precious wood and a lovely inner courtyard. This project will be joined by others that the group has planned for the city, such as the Hotel Camagüey, which will operate under the Innside brand. Ultimately, Cuba’s hotel offering is growing, expanding and increasing in quality and innovation—while adapting little by little to the new STYLE

demands of international tourism.

On the island of Sal, fishing continues to be a way of life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise for fishing enthusiasts.

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CAPE VERDE SUNNY DAYS

WHERE EVERY DAY IS SPRING Its beaches, 'open' 365 days a year, attract fans of water sports and scuba diving. But that’s not all: those looking for a romantic getaway; a holiday with friends; fun for the whole family; or even a business trip find Cape Verde to be the perfect destination... one without seasons, where it’s always spring. Text: ARANTXA NEYRA

PHOTO: AGE.

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combination of a mild climate and its location near Europe make it an attractive destination for a sunny holiday on the beach, and an excellent place for water sports enthusiasts. It’s also important to note that all tourists can enjoy the courtesy, friendliness and hospitality of the people of Cape Verde’.

PORTUGUESE HERITAGE Cape Verde is made up of five islets and ten islands, which are divided into two groups. The Barlavento (windward) islands include Boa Vista, Sal, Santo Antão, São Nicolau, São Vicente and Santa Luzia; the Sotavento (leeward) islands include Fogo, Brava, Maio and Santiago. Its strategic position between Europe, Africa and America made it an important port in the slave trade during the Portuguese colonial years. That time period left an important legacy, which has been mixed with the country’s African roots, starting with the language, Portuguese (and its derived form of Cape Verdean Creole), as well as culture, music and exotic cuisine. The latter combines local ingredients with Portuguese recipes, such as feijoada, very similar to that of Portugal or Brazil, and the omnipresent fish, which is usually grilled or prepared in caldeirada (stew).

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Many fishing excursions are organised, especially for tuna and Atlantic blue marlin.

Amílcar Cabral International Airport, on the island of PHOTO: AGE.

THE ISLAND OF SAL Sal, is usually the gateway to the archipelago. This island is also its main tourist destination, and the place where Meliá Hotels International currently operates its four hotels in Cape Verde, on the beach of Algodoeiro, just a

ome have dubbed it the African Caribbean, due

few minutes from the city of Santa Maria on the southwest

to the fact that it has some of the best beaches on the

coast of the island (new hotel openings are underway on

continent—the kind you see in adverts for sun cream, with

Boa Vista and São Vicente and in Praia).

crystal clear waters and pale sand. Warm temperatures all

Volcanic, arid, flat, monochromatic and windy, its name

year round make it the ideal destination no matter when

hints at what used to be the main industry from the 18th

you feel like packing your suitcase. That said, we believe

to the 20th century: salt mines. In fact, the Pedra de Lume

that Cape Verde, a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic

(Stone of Fire)—an old salt mine located in the crater of

Ocean off the coast of Senegal, has more than enough

a volcano extinguished with salt water considered to be

attractions and personality to make a name for itself on its

therapeutic—can be a good start for a tour, according

own—no external references needed.

to Santiago González, General Manager of the Meliá

‘Cape Verde has a positive reputation as one of the most

Tortuga. You can continue to ‘Shark Bay, a coral reef where

stable democracies in Africa, and also stands out for its

the (harmless) lemon sharks come so close they almost

social and economic stability’, explains José Luis García

touch tourists’ feet', and then go towards ‘the north of

Cuevas, Operations Director of Meliá in Cape Verde. ‘The

Espargos, the capital city, where the mirage of Terra Boa appears like a lake in the desert landscape; and the Olho Azul (Blue Eye), an area with natural pools that also has a marine cavern that’s open on top, creating an impressive effect when the light comes in and reveals the crystal clear waters inside it’.

ROMANTIC GETAWAY Meliá Llana Beach Resort & Spa

Opened in 2016, the Meliá Llana Beach is the only adults-only resort offering five-star all-inclusive service in Cape Verde. Its customers, who are mostly British, German, Belgian and Nordic, have clear wishes, according to Esther Montoro, Hotel Manager. ‘Our guests are mainly over the age of forty and are seeking tranquillity and very good service’, she says. Both are easy to find here, whether by looking out at the ocean from the suites and rooms; strolling through the tropical gardens; receiving a massage at the YHI Spa; or simply enjoying the sunset ‘in the oasis of The Level Lounge, right on the beach’, which for Esther is simply ‘mystical’. During your stay at the hotel, you can participate in activities like classes on tropical cooking, capoeira and Cape Verdean dance, as well as beach volleyball, yoga and snorkelling. It doesn’t end there: the location is also perfect for getting to know the island and its ‘unusually friendly, hospitable and very pleasant’ people, and learning about its history at places like the salt mines at Pedra de Lume, ‘where development on the island began in the 15th century with the export of salt by European settlers; the slaves responsible for extracting it were the first inhabitants’.

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BRING YOUR FRIENDS Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa

Just a stone’s throw away you’ll find the ocean at your feet; the Meliá Dunas is located right on the beach, with spectacular suites and The Level villas (boasting 3 to 5 bedrooms, a garden and a swimming pool). That’s why this new all-inclusive luxury resort is ideal for groups of friends travelling with surfboards, fins and kites, and ‘for those seeking a relaxing holiday in a semi-virgin destination with large white sandy beaches—like that of Santa Maria, considered one of the five most beautiful in Africa’, says Kais Mbarek, General Manager of the Meliá Dunas. It also has four swimming pools, two for adults (one exclusively for The Level guests) and one for children; two tennis and beach volleyball courts; a fitness centre; aqua gym, beach volleyball, fishing and scuba diving classes—perfectly complemented by yoga, Pilates and relaxation; and the various treatments offered at the YHI Spa. Another of the hotel’s main attractions for groups of guests is its location, very close to the city of Santa Maria, which has vibrant nightlife and 'all kinds of bars playing live music from Cape Verde’, where you can go dancing after having a delicious dinner at one of its restaurants.

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3 FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Sol Dunas

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At this all-inclusive resort on the Algodoeiro beach, right in front of a coral reef, the real stars are families. Every detail is perfectly orchestrated to make sure each guest remembers their holiday forever. From its rooms, with all the facilities families need, to its comprehensive kids area offering activities, games and workshops tailored to each age: the Mini Kids Club (for children from 6 months to 4 years old), the Kids Club (5 to 12 years old) and a Teenagers Club up to 17 years old. Sol Dunas has something for everyone: four pools (3 for adults and one adapted for children), a fun Watersplash area with water slides, a themed playground and a full spa. You can start the day by choosing from a thousand and one activities: Zumba, paddle surfing and water polo for the adults, as well as Mini Aqua Gym, Aqua Dance and secret tours of the hotel. In the afternoon, the fun continues with even more options: a makeup workshop, a pirate party or a mini-disco. After dining at one of the resort’s restaurants—Spices, Sol Grille or Il Terrazzo—end your day dancing and singing to the rhythm of musicals like The Lion King and Mama Africa.

Sofas Cala by Doshi Levien Club Chair Roll by Patricia Urquiola

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

4 BUSINESS TRIP Meliá Tortuga Beach Resort & Spa

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‘A restful paradise with an African touch’ is how Cape Verde is defined by Santiago González, General Manager of the Meliá Tortuga. It’s a boutique resort with suites and villas featuring 3 or 4 bedrooms, a private garden and a swimming pool, surrounded by green areas. This is a ‘quiet and intimate hotel’ where people feel at home. And the high level of repeat visitors (almost 30%) proves it. Here, guests also have direct contact with locals, as 98% of the staff hail from Cape Verde. Its facilities include different dining areas, a spa, a gym, the Kids Club and a centre offering scuba diving and various excursions: riding on the beach, cycling routes, fishing day trips and tours of the nearest cities, such as Santa Maria. For those who prefer to work without losing sight of the ocean, there’s also an event space boasting two meeting rooms with natural light and capacity for up to 200 people. Perhaps you’ll want to end the day at what González considers the hotel’s most special spot: the beachside O Grille restaurant, ‘which has the best sunset on the island and, in 2013, was ranked number 18 on CNN Travel’s list of the world’s best beach bars’.

ME DUBAIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ARCHITECTURE

ME DUBAI HOTEL

NEW ICON Text: VICKY VILCHES

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The posthumous legacy of one of the biggest names in the world of architecture, Zaha Hadid. Her only hotel. Her only creation in the Middle East. One of the great achievements of her prestigious London studio, designed for any location. Set to open at the end of this year, the new ME Dubai will get people talking.

The Opus will become an icon of the city. It’s the Meliá group’s first hotel in the Middle East.

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his building not only shows Hadid’s willingness

to push the limits of architecture, but also her unwavering commitment to construction demands and quality. The Opus is destined to become an icon in a city home to hundreds of skyscrapers; where cranes form part of the skyline, and top architecture firms move at a staggering pace, many of them with their sights set on the big Emirati event of 2020: the World Expo Dubai. But The Opus—the futuristic building that will house the ME Dubai hotel—won’t resemble any of these skyscrapers. The seemingly impossible curved lines reveal the singular talents of world-famous architect Zaha Hadid, who passed away suddenly in Miami in 2016. ‘When Zaha left us, all of the design work had been completed. Now that it's almost finished, I think she would have been very proud of the final result. We consider it one of the studio’s greatest creations’, explains Christos Passas, associate director of Zaha Hadid Architects. For more than a decade,

The late architect Zaha Hadid designed both the interior and exterior of the hotel: 93 rooms and suites distributed over 19 floors and 98 residential apartments.

Passas has been travelling to Dubai three or four times a year. As project manager, he has worked on site with the Iraqi-British architect on many occasions. Working closely in the London studio, they explored ideas, reviewed proposals, looked at designs and drew lines—and those famous curves. Along with other members of the studio, Passas is now designing a piece that she surely wouldn’t have agreed to: the Zaha Hahid Memorial, which will be located inside The Opus. ‘Why in this building? Not only because it’s the closest to her country of origin, but because we also consider it one of the masterpieces of the Zaha Hadid Architects studio’, says Passas. This masterpiece measures roughly 100 metres in height. Its 18 floors will house ME Dubai’s 93 rooms and suites, and a similar number of apartments offering first-class services—60 of which are managed by Meliá Hotels International. The Opus will also boast 15 restaurants, a swimming pool, a gym and a large terrace, as well as a very spacious atrium that will be a hallmark of the hotel. The building is located in a business district, not far from the Dubai Mall and Burj

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Khalifa, the hub of the region’s most vibrant city.

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The project, managed by Omniyat, the leading real

that’s melting into the desert. During the day, its reflective

estate developer in the Middle East, stands out in

pixelated facade makes the outer cube visible, but at night,

particular for its imaginative and unique facade. Its

the building appears to dematerialise as thousands of

silhouette, already familiar among architecture fans eager

LED lights fill the inner space. The architecture plays with

to see it in situ, is truly unique and demonstrates great

contrasting dimensions: solid and empty; curvaceous and

technical complexity. It also features the masterful use of

lineal; opaque and transparent; internal and external.

curved lines that are characteristic of Hadid’s work. She

Made of glass manufactured in China and aluminium

was dubbed ‘the Queen of the Curve’ for her bold and

from Denmark, some of the assembled glazed panels weigh

fluid designs, rejecting straight lines.

over 800 kilos. An asymmetrical installation designed for the

The Opus, formed out of two individual structures, was conceived as a single cube. The two spaces are joined by a

hotel, Crest, is also made of aluminium, and was presented to the public at the London Design Festival in 2014.

base surrounded by a pathway that runs smoothly around

One of the complexities of the building is the fact that a

its four sides, allowing for wide pedestrian circulation.

good number of rooms and suites face directly towards the

‘The ground floor was imagined as an open area, with

inside of the cube, which has curved walls, and in which

a large atrium that serves to connect five floors, housing

no two glass panels are alike. ‘Given the building’s special

retail spaces, most of the restaurants and the other dining

shape, we only have 93 rooms, and there are 68 different

options. It’s the heart and soul of the hotel’, explains Jaume

types’, says Stefan Viard, General Manager of the ME

Campmany, Technical Director of the Middle East & North

Dubai. ‘Seeing as it’s Zaha Hadid, practically everything

Africa for Meliá Hotels International. But for Campmany,

is curved and sometimes design overrides functionality,

like Passas, it’s the building’s geometry—the curved shape

so our role in the project also involves finding the right

of the facade—that is the essence of its uniqueness.

balance’, says Viard. Hadid, who was the first woman

This cube-shaped building has a surface area of almost

to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize, sought to strike a

90,000 square metres, yet its most striking element is the

balance between the seemingly cold appearance of her

free and open interior space: Hadid’s creative, curvilinear

buildings and the residential warmth that guests expect,

and bold void. And while the entire facade is flat, within

even in a building as futuristic as The Opus. ‘We’ve strived

this hollow all the glass panels are curved, and no two

for everything to be comfortable and for the guest to feel

pieces are alike. Some have said it looks like an ice cube

at ease. We’ve aimed for a combination of convenience

The lobby, the lounge areas and the reception are decorated with fantastic furniture selected by Zaha, some of which she even designed herself. On the left, the atrium area, where much of the hotel’s activity and services are concentrated.

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60 of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apartments will be managed directly by MeliĂĄ Hotels International. Because of its unique design, there are 68 different kinds of rooms.

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The Opus will have a clear focus on health. On the left, the gym area and its snack bar. The hotel will also have 15 restaurants. Below, the famous vertical café.

and modernity. We wanted to convey a cosy and friendly feeling of comfort that meets the needs of guests, while also offering something unexpected in the use of both material and shape, which is not always predictable’. Passas believes that ‘Zaha poured everything she knew about hotels into this project, counting on her industry experience and what she would have liked to find when she arrived at a hotel. I also think we’ve captured the ME spirit and we identify with the brand, creating spaces where people can interact and enjoy life in a place that ensures their privacy’, adds Passas, who worked closely with the late architect. The magnificent facade has a strong backing to help it become a new architectural icon in Dubai, in large part due to its intricate interior details. Virtually everything has come from the prestigious London-based studio: furniture, wardrobes, beds, decorative details and so on. They’ve worked with Porcelanosa Group to design the bathrooms—sleek and elegant, in black and white. And they’ve worked with their sister company Zaha Hadid Designs to develop a new line of sofas, named after The Opus and inspired by the hotel’s design.

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The future will be better if we open up our energy. Each day we feel the need to open up and mix with other people. This is what enables us to move forward. So weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve changed the way we do things, by embracing innovation and exchange, ideas and progress. Welcome to an era in which, if we all open up our energy, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll manage to build a better future.

endesa.com

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Above, the pool, next to the culinary spaces and the gym. Below it, treatment rooms in the spa, on podium one.

While the facade is one of the most striking architectural

Studio Glitt in Tokyo. The robata grill will be the focal

features, the large atrium is the heart of daily life at the

point of the dining experience, featured at the centre of

hotel. As for the building’s culinary offerings, the ME,

the restaurant, just like in ROKA restaurants in other cities.

as mentioned earlier, boasts 15 restaurants, including

The swimming pool, another important feature of the

ROKA, a contemporary Japanese robatayaki restaurant.

hotel, is situated not far from the dining area. ‘The pool

The ROKA restaurant chain was founded in London in

is located on podium one, and let’s say it has a healthier

2004, by chef Rainer Becker. Hamish Brown, international

concept than at other ME hotels’, explains Campmany. Its

executive chef for the ROKA restaurants since 2013,

proximity to the hotel’s gym and other health and beauty

successfully heads a team that has created some of the

areas sets it apart from concepts closer to beach clubs. ‘You

most emblematic dishes of ROKA London, including

could say the style is more “chill out” rather than beach

yellowtail sashimi with truffle and yuzu dressing, as well

club’, he says.

as lamb chops with Korean spices. The restaurant’s interior

Like the rest of the ME hotels, the ME Dubai focuses

will showcase the collaboration between Rainer Becker

on the cultural, lifestyle and luxury experiences offered

and the well-known designer Noriyoshi Muramatsu from

to guests. During their stay, guests will be taken care of by an Aura Manager with knowledge of the city, in order to provide them with the most personalised service possible. It will also feature an ultra-luxurious ‘Suite ME’ that promises to become one of the most spectacular places to stay in the new city that never sleeps.

SPAIN C/ Apolonio Morales 1, Local Bajo 2 28036 Madrid

USA Douglas Centre 2600, South Douglas Road. Suite 1007 Coral Gables

MEXICO Campos Eliseos 345, Piso 6 11560, Ciudad de México

www.proffetional.com

COLOMBIA Cra 43 A No. 9 Sur 91 Of- 702 Medellín

MOROCCO 134, Rue Brahim Nakhai Maarif 20100 Casablanca

www.room1804.com

PERU C/ Las Acacias 578, Miraflores, Lima

The Observatory

THE CUSTOMER JOURNEY The Customer Journey—the journey a customer takes when interacting with a company—is something that Meliá Hotels International takes very seriously, right from the first click. Text: ARANTXA NEYRA Illusration: JAIME MARTÍNEZ

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ot long ago, when a family was planning their

The day the holidays ended you would return home, take

holidays, it would go something like this: you would go to

your photos to be developed and show them to your friends.

the closest travel agent, they’d hand you a catalogue full of

If you liked the hotel, you’d recommend it enthusiastically

suggestions to take home, you’d look at the hotels that best

and return the following year. If not, you’d stop by the travel

suited your needs, the agent would help you make the final

agency again the following spring and pick up another

decision, and once you’d made your choice, you’d pay in

catalogue. And you’d get the ball rolling once more.

cash and leave with a printed confirmation in hand. The

Travelling has essentially stayed the same, but nowadays

weeks went by and you’d forget about the hotel until the

almost everything happens in real time and technology is

day of your arrival, when they would kindly receive you in

a ubiquitous part of the process: from the first moment the

the reception and give you a large key that you’d leave in

idea of a getaway comes into your head until the moment

the pigeon box each time you went out.

you arrive back home. That concept of ‘getting the ball

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The company is known for improving customer service right down to the very last detail.

rolling’ is known today as the traveller’s customer journey,

personalisation and even interaction in real time, as well as

an online experience that any hotel, whether big or small,

providing support through social media channels.

boutique or resort, must bear in mind in order to meet the

All of this is constantly evolving. In order to remain competitive, the people at Meliá Hotels International are

expectations of its guests and earn their loyalty.

continuously working to optimise their B2C and B2B websites

FROM A CRUSH TO ‘I DO

for various search engines; ensuring the best user experience;

The aforementioned brochure was lost in a drawer somewhere

and, of course, taking care of social media as if it were their most

years ago. A film, a clipping from a magazine, a conversation

precious treasure: creating tailored marketing campaigns,

over some beers or a photo on Instagram... anything can be

responding well to reviews and, ultimately, building strong

inspiration for a trip these days. Online or offline, there’s

and lasting relationships with customers.

always something that sparks an idea, and now we have more and more tools at our disposal to find out more (and

THE (NOT SO) BLIND DATE

compare): online forums, other travellers’ reviews, Facebook,

Before arrival, each guest already knows more or less

Instagram, blogs, videos, etc.

what awaits them. They’ve seen the photos and videos on

Once the decision has been made, it’s time to pay— something that has also evolved in leaps and bounds thanks to the multiple channels available (search engines, comparison

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sites,

OTAs,

traditional

travel

the website, browsed the social media channels and read other guests’ opinions in forums and review sites. The hotel already knows a bit about the guest as well.

agents,

More and more, in fact, thanks to the information the hotel

homepages and more). Everything is much simpler, quicker

receives in advance, allowing its staff to anticipate guests’

and more convenient. You can do everything from home

preferences and needs in order to offer better service.

with just a single click, any time, any day (even over a few

Here the digital wizards of big data and customer

days, or a few hours) and using more than one device. If

intelligence come into play, taking over the management

you’re like us, you start by looking for something on your

and analysis of huge quantities of data in all kinds of

way to work on your phone, continue on the metro from

formats (cookies, call centre calls, the app, previous stays,

your tablet and eventually finish up on the computer. It’s a

social media activity, etc.) in search of that ubiquitous

crucial moment: the first step, the first sign that the trip that

keyword: personalisation.

was once a faraway hope is now becoming reality, when the customer journey truly begins.

The Meliá group has innovation in its DNA, and for more than a decade now has been a pioneer in the use

That’s why it’s essential that the company website and

and management of data in order to optimise costs, fine-

app—such as those of the Meliá group—are compatible with

tune processes and anticipate guests’ needs. This allows

all devices, and offer the user a great experience: permitting

them to promptly correct any kind of error and also to

The Observatory I N T E R V I E W

JESÚS MORENO DIRECTOR OF CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

“It’s not only important to get to know the customer,

but also to choose the right moment to interact, using the information available in real time.” Moreno, who’s responsible for

customer products and services that

and potential customers will become

developing relationship strategies

are increasingly relevant.

less and less competitive.

using customer data, talks to us

To summarise, thanks to big data

For some time now, more advanced

about artificial intelligence, how big

the customer receives better service

businesses like ours have been aware

data helps in the decision making

and the company is increasingly

of the importance of using customer

process, and the new channels and

efficient in terms of customer

data in order to make decisions

ways of selling.

acquisition and loyalty.

and act more effectively. What has changed and will continue to change

What is big data and why is it so

At a tourism company like Meliá

important nowadays?

Hotels International, where do you

with the arrival of big data is that it is increasingly accessible.

Big data refers to a new and

obtain this data from, what format

Organisations will have to adapt to

unconventional technological

is it in and what can it tell us?

these new capabilities, and this will

environment that deals with

There’s a huge range of information

affect all of the departments of each

huge quantities of information

sources and formats for big data,

organisation.

(volume), with varying formats and

ranging from the advertising we do

complexity (variability) and high

with online marketing to the users’

What will the future look like?

growth (speed).

navigation of our website, the calls

The future lies in making the most

that the call centres receive, the use of

of big data in any kind of decision-

unique aspect of big data is the way

our app, our guests’ stays at the hotels,

making process where relevant

businesses are taking advantage of it.

their activity on social media, etc.

digital information is available. Big

But the truly important and

In order to provide customers

However, when we’re talking about

data will give us insight in real time,

with better service, we must get to

personal information we must ensure

allowing us to provide individual,

know them better by gathering all

legal compliance, and also make

personalised and relevant service

the relevant information we have

sure that the customer has a positive

every time a customer interacts with

about them.

opinion of how we use their data.

us, whether directly through digital channels (the website, the app,

It’s not only important to get to know the customer, but also to choose

How important is speed in the

robots) or by lending support to the

the right moment to interact, using the

management and analysis of big data?

person providing said service (call

information available in real time.

Speed is becoming increasingly

centre operators, receptionists or

important as a differentiating factor

concierges). There are no surprises...

intelligence, predictive models and

when it comes to giving the customer

only a changing environment with

machine learning algorithms. This

the best service and optimising

more digital natives every day, who

makes it possible for us to process all

relationship strategies. Identifying the

have new needs and expectations.

available information and offer the

customer’s ‘moments of truth’—and

Transformation waits for no one.

We also have the help of artificial

being able to define effective strategies when those moments occur—is key to effectively activating the large volume of information big data affords us. STYLE

Can it help us predict trends, beyond just understanding the current situation? Businesses that don’t effectively use the data associated with customers

set the best rates, which change according to demand and

breakfast in bed or a bottle of champagne, and it allows

other factors that together allow for the improvement of

for quick and easy communication in general.

the hotel’s value proposition to the customer (revenue management). But it’s a never-ending journey, a constant

CAN LOVE LAST FOREVER?

series of updates that are made every day. This is the only

Unless you’re nostalgic for the analogue era, you no

way that a tourism company can maintain its leadership

longer have to wait until you arrive home and get your

in the fast-paced 21st century.

film developed to see photos of your trip. You don’t have to wait to show them to your friends or recommend the

THE HONEYMOON

hotel either. During their stay, guests can share their

If the guest’s search for a hotel ended in

photos and opinions in real time, not only with friends,

love at first sight, and the arrival was

but also with their whole community—all thanks to

far from a blind date, then the future

smartphones. This brings a new set of rules to the game,

of this ‘relationship’ lies in the stay

with compliments and praise now public for all to see, but

itself. It’s the moment when the hotel

criticism and complaints exposed in equal measure. The

has the chance to satisfy the customer,

hotel must certainly listen, but it also needs to respond

learn from them and begin to earn their

both quickly and effectively.

loyalty. Of course, technology is also

Like in any relationship, gaining someone’s trust (which

present from the very first moment of this

to a large extent means having managed this process well)

stage (and even before). As mentioned earlier,

is one of the most complicated parts of the customer

the arrival at reception is no longer a real surprise,

journey. But it goes far beyond this, because a satisfied

as communication has already been established and in

guest means more to a hotel than just a potential future

many cases check-in has been completed in advance. And

customer. A satisfied guest is now a brand ambassador

that huge key has turned into a thin card or even vanished

on social media, in forums and review sites and through

entirely: carried instead on your mobile and giving you

word of mouth.

access to more areas than just your hotel room.

And let’s not forget the company’s appealing loyalty

Technology is a constant presence in all of the Meliá

programme, nor another fundamental aspect of the

group’s hotels: the best possible internet connection is

journey—something that can’t be understood by algorithms

guaranteed throughout each property, and the guest’s

or equations, which Meliá Hotels International nurtures

phone (or even a lighter device like a wearable) is their

above all else: the human factor. For the company,

greatest ally. On it, they can do everything from making

personalised and exquisite service always has been and

reservations at the hotel’s restaurants to ordering

always will be the feature that customers appreciate most.

STORYTELLING IN HOTEL MARKETING

STYLE

Anthony Cortizas, VP of Global Brand Strategy for Meliá Hotels International, is clear on this point: what’s changed in hotel marketing is the focus. Whereas previously the focus was on sales, now the real star is storytelling: the story behind the hotels that enables them to connect emotionally with potential guests. A charming, captivating story that can be found on social media, and especially Facebook and Instagram, with their perfectly blank pages for you to write your own adventures. But remember, not everything in the world is virtual, so when the story is told in other formats, it must be consistent in terms of language, keywords and target audience. This brings up the topic of influencers, with their role in spreading the story and connecting with the traveller. Cortizas differentiates between two kinds of influencers: those that have a huge following made up of millions of highly diverse individuals, and those that truly generate a high level of engagement with their followers due to their similar interests, tastes and backgrounds, making them the perfect brand ambassadors. In the case of MHI, there are seven brands with seven languages, seven kinds of content and seven different codes of communication. This means that everyone can choose the brand with which they identify most.

The Observatory I N T E R V I E W

SARA RANGHI

BRAND LEADER CORPORATE BRANDS & CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

“We are listening to what customers tell us and improving our operational processes based on that.” Ranghi tells us what the customer

and ratings from other travellers

they can use the app to chat with

experience is like in all the phases

and good customer service, like for

the hotel, make any kind of request

of the customer journey, beginning

example being able to chat with a

or reservation and even order

before arrival at the hotel, as well

specialised agent.

room service, as well as find out all the information about the hotel’s

as how new tools like the app will

services.

allow the customer to do everything

How has the guest experience

with their mobile: order something,

evolved?

make a reservation, show

In recent years, the Meliá group has

MeliáRewards profile, the guest will

preferences and more.

been dedicated to looking at how

be able to manage all their personal

to improve transactional processes,

information, loyalty points, frequent

What is the greatest influence on

to make them more simple and

companions and preferences; link

the user’s purchasing decision?

streamlined. For instance at check-

their credit/debit card to their profile;

Aside from main factors such as

in; MeliáRewards customers who

and save their favourite hotels.

price, product and trust in the

make their reservations through

brand, there are recommendations

our own channels (melia.com, the

In terms of new technology, what

and ratings from other users.

app or the Contact Centre) can now

pilot projects are being tested out in

Ultimately, the buying experience

check in online 96 hours before the

hotels?

itself marks the beginning of the

day of arrival, just like we do for

There are many, from the global

entire experience, in our case at the

flights. We want the customer to be

consolidation of the reservation

hotel. That’s why the Meliá group

completely autonomous, and to not

management systems at the

is working to improve the customer

even have to stop by reception (with

restaurants and spas to the inclusion

experience when visiting melia.com

the exception of countries where

of a support feature for meeting

or downloading the new Meliá app.

legislation requires this). Once this

planners in our app; from the ability

The main objectives of improving

project is complete, the guest will be

to open doors with a digital key to

this first purchasing phase would

able to upgrade their room, enter in

the use of wearables that let guests

be to establish the following: easy

the details of the other guests, pay

pay in restaurants as well as open

navigation, personalised content

for the reservation, digitally sign

their hotel room doors, among

according to buying preferences,

the welcome document and obtain

many other projects. Innovation is

different payment options (cash,

their digital key, provided the hotel

a cornerstone of the Meliá group’s

points, points + cash), comments

has compatible locks. This is how

strategy.

In addition, on their

Meliá is responding to the call to be ‘customer centric’: by listening to what customers tell us and improving our operational processes based on that. What does the Meliá group’s app offer? The new Meliá app will no longer be just a way to make and manage reservations at our hotels; it will also allow you to check in online and obtain the digital key for your room. During each guest’s stay,

STYLE

The Observatory I N T E R V I E W

MANUEL RIEGO

VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL DIGITAL SALES & MARKETING AT MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL

“Customers send us lots of signals, and today’s technology enables us to transform this information into offers.” How have the models of sales

make it useful for the customer. These

actions, and everything is based on the

management and customer

include bidding tools for optimising

optimisation of the data that our new

relationships changed in the

our investments in search engines

technologies afford us—always with

hospitality world?

and OTAs, as well as ad servers that

the aim of personalising what we offer

Our relationship with the customer has

let us know how and to whom we

to our customers.

become a one-to-one communication

communicate best. All of this allows us

model based on knowledge and

to become increasingly efficient in our

To what extent are social media

personalisation. Immediacy is

approach to the market. The second

networks important to the group?

increasingly important, and the mobile

area is processes. With customers

They’re very important, and we were

has transformed the way we interact

becoming increasingly connected, it

recently recognised as one of the hotel

with customers (this past year we’ve

has been essential to break down the

chains with the greatest influence on

had more visits to our mobile site than

barriers between different areas of

social media. Social media is a channel

to our ‘traditional’ website).

customer interaction. We’re moving

that allows us to have a two-way

forward with an omnichannel

relationship with our customers, to

a significant change, which has been

CRM model that allows us to tell a

speak with them, understand them

very much in line with consumers’

consistent story at all points of the

and use that information to improve

new buying habits. We must take into

customer journey, in order to promote

what we offer. Reputation is critical;

account that 10 years ago companies

a ‘customer centric’ vision across all

we live in a very transparent world

like Facebook, Trivago, TripAdvisor

our processes. The third area is talent.

where the opinions of other users

and Booking.com either did not exist

A great effort is being made to attract,

are much more important than

or had just come into being, and yet

transform and maintain the best talent.

what the companies themselves are

today they are a fundamental part

We live in a highly digital world, but

saying. That’s why social media is so

of hotel companies’ distribution

people are becoming more and more

important, and is such a clear driver

and sales models. These companies

important. Specialisation is essential,

of the digital success of hospitality

are our new sales partners, as they

and we’re no longer competing with

companies.

enable us to get to know the customer

only other hotel chains for talent, but

comprehensively and therefore to send

also with ‘new’ companies like Google,

What are the company’s current

them the best offer at the right time,

Facebook and Amazon. This forces us

percentages of online and offline

and at a price that resonates.

to be increasingly innovative in order

sales?

to retain our employees. In light of

By the end of 2018, 70% of sales will be

The Meliá group is a company

this, we’ve made plans for training and

made through digital channels, with a

with over 60 years of history. How

transformation; we’ve transformed our

large part of them occurring through

are you managing the transition to

spaces with more digital methods; and

melia.com.

digitalisation?

we’ve incorporated ‘agile techniques’

In three fundamental areas, the first of

that enable us to retain a highly

What must a company do nowadays to

which is digital tools and technology.

qualified technical team.

attract new guests?

In recent years we’ve experienced

We must understand customers’

We’ve invested in technology that STYLE

allows us to be very efficient at

Where is this leading us?

habits and personalise what we

managing information and sending

In the digital world it’s very difficult

offer in each of the micro-moments

our customers personalised offers in

to make a clear prediction of where

we have with them. Customers

real time. In recent years we’ve been

we’re headed, but what is clear is that

send us lots of signals, and today’s

able to incorporate DMPs and big data

we’re continuing to move towards a

technology enables us to transform

tools in order to manage the huge

highly connected world, where the

this information into offers with high

amount of information we have and

mobile phone is at the centre of all our

added value.

FASHION

STYLE

MELIĂ SERENGETI LODGE

OUT THERE. The top model always has her binoculars at the ready, never taking her eyes off the horizon. She wears a chocolate-coloured rubber and brass wire elephant bracelet, and Ballo sunglasses with edgy white and yellow beaded straps. Except the sunglasses, all by Mille Collines.

THE JOY OF THE HERE AND NOW AND THE DELIGHT OF LIFE SUFFUSE THIS STORY STARRING THE NEW MELIÁ SERENGETI LODGE AND KENYAN TOP MODEL AJUMA, DRESSED BY MILLE COLLINES.

STYLE

Styling: NANMYAK Fashion photography: ANA NANCE Hair and makeup: NALLAH SANGARÉ Writing and production: GEMA MONROY

STYLE

THE BEST THING TO DO. In the sleepy Serengeti afternoon when the wildlife slips away and things slow down, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing better than luxuriating in your room, curled up with a good book. Ajuma is glamorously comfortable, wearing offwhite wide leg silk crepe trousers and a Tuareg printed asymmetric top. On the right, in a black beaded backless dress with a pleated waist and brass arrow earrings.Total look by Mille Collines.

STYLE

LOCAL INGREDIENTS. Ajuma in the vibrant Meliรก Serengeti Lodge, whose decorative details come from the local markets. She wears a light grey crepe slip dress paired with half moon brass and bone earrings, inspired by Swahili architecture. The ancient Swahili culture is also reflected in the delicate print of her dress.

STYLE

TIME FOR YOURSELF. Every rooms at the Meliรก Serengeti Lodge has its own terrace, and the two suites also have floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the bush. Ajuma wears a hand-drawn, Kuba-inspired printed silk crepe kimono, a stone grey rope belt and dyed bone and brass earrings. On the left, taking a bath wearing a hand-beaded bracelet. All by Mille Collines.

STYLE

THE GREATEST WARRIORS. In the colonial corner of the main bar, Ajuma lounges in a light grey tunic with aqua comb prints, inspired by ancient Swahili symbols, and beaded 3D triangle earrings. On the right, the Maasai are the best company out in the bush. Ajuma wears a green off-theshoulder crepe dress with multicolour bird print. Total look by Mille Collines.

STYLE

INTERVIEW WITH

HUMAN CONNECTIONS From Africa, to the world. MStyle chats with the three designers behind Mille Collines, one of the coolest and most creative fashion labels of the African continent. The brand’s creations are featured throughout this issue. By GEMA MONROY

Ten years ago, the young designers

What’s the greatest thing about

Inés Cuatrecasas and Marc Oliver

working in Africa?

Sancho travelled from Barcelona to

Inés: In Africa there is still so much

Kigali, Rwanda to set up the Mille

room to create and make an impact.

Collines project. It was a great success,

The diversity around you is so rich,

and they have since had the immense

and there are constant sources of

satisfaction of seeing the people

inspiration: the richness of the tribes,

around them progress and develop.

languages, architectural influences,

‘But this is not an NGO; Mille Collines

religions…. It’s the beauty in the

is a fashion business’, they clarify from

chaos, the imperfection of things that

the beginning. ‘Our goal is and has

are not streamlined or uniform. That

Inés: We’ve always looked to Africa

always been to sell clothes and pay

perfect imperfection inspires every

to find the inspiration, tools, team

our employees with the profits from

product we create, and we believe

members and resources we need

the sales’. That said, ‘every product

it’s what makes African creations so

for our creative process. Since we

of Mille Collines is produced by

attractive to the world.

founded Mille Collines we’ve worked

artisans who are employed under fair

Marc: In Africa they like to say that

with so many collectives, all of

conditions. Our goal is not simply to

‘it takes a village to raise a child’.

them immensely talented. It’s such

make money; if that were the case,

Nobody who achieved something

a privilege to be able to sit down

we’d be manufacturing in China or

did it alone. People are still more

with a brass artisan and carve a new

Bangladesh. We are a company from

important here than business, and

mounting for a disc pendant together,

Africa, to Africa’. To Africa and beyond.

that’s something that’s disappeared

or the clasp of a rubber bracelet.

The brand’s clothes have been shown

in Europe. In Europe everything

There are fewer and fewer places

on the continent’s most prestigious

is so competitive that people have

in the world where you can work

catwalks, from Johannesburg to Lagos

become dispensable, but not in Africa.

alongside an artisan and be a part of

and Cape Town. For three years

Human connections are still the key

the process.

they’ve been working with one of

here, and your success depends on

the most promising Kenyan fashion

the way you treat people.

designers, Nanmyak. STYLE

You also collaborate with other designers and brands.

Speaking of not being alone,

Inés: We’ve done three collections for

you work with different artisans

Anthropologie and we're currently

and craftspeople all over the

working on a collection for a South

continent, right?

African retail chain. Our products

Marc: Our products are handmade, so

will be available in major airports and

we require lots of manpower.

premium malls across South Africa.

countries in Africa and still make things happen. It increases our reach and our opportunities. We have a feeling that this will become the norm in just a decade. We’re already seeing people in certain teams being given the opportunity to work from any location. You learn how to trust what you cannot control or see. Define Mille Collines’ style. Inés: Contemporary, wearable Africa. In this edition’s fashion story, we see clothes and accessories from a couple

PHOTO: GIOVANI CARELLA.

of Mille Collines collections. Can you explain the story behind the shoot? Nanmyak: For the shoot we selected pieces from three different collections, featuring: Tuareg-inspired motifs on airy fabrics, ancient Swahili-inspired motifs in bursts of colour against light, flowing backgrounds and accessories based on shapes mainly drawn from Swahili architecture, with pleats on Inés Cuatrecasas and Marc Oliver Sancho, designers from Barcelona who are based in Rwanda, moved to Kigali to found the Mille Collines brand.

jacket cuffs and dress waistbands

You started this adventure in Rwanda

on growing our wholesale footprint

and then you moved to Nairobi. Why?

as well as giving our online channel

Marc: Nairobi is the hub of East Africa;

a real push. Cape Town offered great

it has the drive and the energy. In

opportunities to do this while we

the last five or seven years a new

keep a branch in Kenya and some of

creative generation has sprung up

our production in Rwanda. We don’t

there, involved in art, design, culture,

see this as a move, but more a part of

and distribution in different stores

music and visual arts, with a lifestyle

our expansion.

all over Africa, the US and Europe.

inspired by Kikuyu basket motifs. Where can we buy Mille Collines clothes and accessories? Marc: We have three shops in Nairobi

There’s also the online shop.

that extends beyond the mall. It’s a very young generation. They’re hard

What’s your process like, considering

working and eager to do new things,

one of you is here and the other is

Have you achieved your original goal?

and they’re creating a new culture

based over there?

Marc: We’ll achieve our original goal

there. In Nairobi things happen. The

Marc: We do everything together, and

the day Inés and I step aside and

salaries are low and things can get really

we’re always connected by email and

the brand continues functioning,

tough, but you see how people push on.

WhatsApp. The first step is always the

completely independent of anyone

Entrepreneurs exist, the tribe is there,

concept, and then we start working

who is not from the African continent.

and people know how to have fun.

from that idea. I take care of the

Inés: There is a famous saying: ‘success

shapes, and Inés and Nanmyak focus

is not a destination, it’s a journey’, and

But now you’re moving your

on the fabrics and colours.

this is one hell of an exciting one!

headquarters to Cape Town…

Inés. We believe we’re entering a new

Inés: After establishing our retail base

era. Being connected is increasingly

and flagship store in Nairobi, we

easy, and even though a face-to-

decided we needed to expand the

face meeting is still the best, we’re

brand further. We really want to focus

very lucky to be able to work across

STYLE

FEATURED HOTEL

MELIร SERENGETI LODGE

BORN TO BE

WILD The Serengeti, the oldest and most popular National

Park in Tanzania, is the natural playground of the new Meliรก Serengeti Lodge, that opened a few months ago to offer the greatest African experience and to give us the opportunity to learn from the wild. 'Karibu'.

STYLE

Photos: ANA NANCE. Text: GEMA MONROY.

Ajuma, the guest star of our fashion story, walking to the infinity pool. She wears a Milles Collines tunic dress. To the left, a family of lions.

STYLE

oday we’ve seen everything.

It's just been absolutely incredible! Giraffes, elephants, buffalo, jackals... even a leopard!’ No sooner do the guests of the

Below, not a single tree was cut down to build the Meliá Serengeti Lodge; a delicate decorative detail. Above, a vulture flying.

STYLE

red by the landscape. Beyond the sunny terrace and infinity pool, the great plain of the Mbalageti River Valley sprawls uninterrupted. Positioned on three natural terraces on the slopes of the

Meliá Serengeti Lodge step out of the jeep than they begin to

Nyamuma Hills, the architecture of the new Meliá Serenge-

excitedly share their safari experiences. We’ve just arrived, but

ti Lodge harmoniously adapts to the soft curves of a land

before we could even finish our refreshing iced hibiscus tea

that stretches down to the legendary plains of the Serengeti.

welcome drinks, we had already gained stories of our own:

Here the design, greenery and stonework are closely intert-

we’ve witnessed a lioness in action, hunting a zebra. The other

wined with the wilderness. ‘During the hotel’s construction,

guests gaze at us with envy. We’ve also seen impala and gaze-

the noise drove the animals away, but they’ve already retur-

lles, a lone fox, a family of hyenas dozing in the mud and birds

ned. At night a leopard prowls the area’, the hotel’s general

of incredible colours. And, of course, hundreds of zebras and

manager, César Martínez, tells us. ‘I love sitting here with

wildebeest. All this took place in the 36 kilometers between

binoculars and watching the incredible parade of animals’.

the small airport of Seronera and the Meliá Serengeti Lodge, a

In the distance, the bushes appear to move, stepping

50-minute journey that can take to up to two hours (or more)

forwards in single file. ‘They’re wildebeests. They travel

if you stop to enjoy the trip through the savannah. A waiter

north, towards the Maasai Mara, following the rains’, César

approaches to take us to a table at the Savannah Grill. ‘You

explains with a satisfied smile upon seeing our surprise, and

must be hungry’, he says, apologising for the interruption.

hands me his binoculars. ‘If you want a pair you can ask at

We are, indeed, but it’s difficult to focus on the menu, with its

reception’. Martínez, a lovely and charismatic Murcian, left

wealth of Mediterranean and Swahili dishes. We’re enraptu-

his job at Meliá Zanzibar, the Meliá group’s first hotel in Tan-

Above, a wildebeest. To the right, the views are the star feature of the hotel. Below, a group of zebras. Hundreds of thousand of them together with more than a million of wildebeests migrate every year.

STYLE

The hotel is minimalistic in both its visual impact and environmental footprint. During the hotel’s construction not a single tree was cut down; just moved to another site. The stones used for the walls were extracted from the very same ground. The rooms are designed for natural ventilation, eliminating the need for air conditioners. The hotel also have facilities to generate its own energy, covering around half of all the hotel’s energy needs. “The efficient resource management is one of the greatest responsibilities we face to reduce our impact on the environment”, states Martínez. What’s more, the hotel incinerates waste from the kitchen, transforming it into compost for the farmers that supply it with produce. The food is almost 90% locally sourced. The coasters, baskets and all other

STYLE

Below, a coffee set; one of the bedrooms; and the Boma restaurant. On the right, César Martínez, the hotel's general manager, and some of the animals that can be seen on safaris.

zania, to fully immerse himself in the development of this ex-

decorative details were created by local craftspeople. In order

citing project. ‘This hotel is groundbreaking. There’s nothing

to avoid the use of plastic bottles, the hotel has a bottling plant

else like it out there’, he tells us proudly. ‘We opened at the

capable of processing 500 litres of water a day, and has re-

end of December in 2017, and for the past few months we’ve

cently purchased a plastics crusher. The goal: zero emissions.

had full occupancy’.

Zero. What’s more, the spa uses natural products made by a

A responsible business model for hospitality is committed

cooperative of women in Zanzibar, and collaborates with Born

to enhancing the development of the local environment, and

to Learn, a small NGO that fosters education in the most di-

that is exactly the spirit that inspires Meliá Serengeti Lodge,

sadvantaged communities in the region of Kilimanjaro.

Meliá Hotels International’s first sustainability focused hotel.

Beyond the views—unquestionably the star feature, with each of the 50 rooms boasting a terrace overlooking the great plain—the spirit of Africa emanates from every corner. The local character is a fundamental part of the decoration, the food and the staff. Many of the employees are local to the area. James Meas Saboky, a young Maasai who works in the kitchen,

HOW TO TRAVEL TO THE SERENGETI Meliรก Serengeti Lodge

Travelling to the Serengeti must be experience as an Out of Africa flight if you do it with the right airline. Coastal Aviation (coastal.co.tz) has the comprehensive flying network, landing in the quaint airport of Seronera on daily scheduled and private charter services. Flights depart from a variety of airports in Tanzania (including the island of Zanzibar, if you were thinking about staying at the Meliรก Zanzibar for a few days), Nairobi (Kenya) and Kigali (Rwanda), always passing through either the Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport. Coastal operates small aircrafts (up to 12 passengers) that fly at an altitude of 3,500 to 12,500 ft., meaning your scenic safari experience begins on the flight itself. To get to the African capitals or even to Kilimanjaro, we strongly recommend Turkish Airlines (turkishairlines.com), the airline with the most destinations in the world and the easiest way to fly to East Africa.

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The views from the infinity pool and the artistic mural in the lobby area.

tells us the story of his people. ‘Hundreds of years ago there

leads more than a million wildebeest and hundreds of thou-

was a great drought in the valleys of the Nile River, where

sands of zebras and gazelles from the south of the Serengeti to

the Maasai used to live. The wisest chiefs gathered together

the north, reaching the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The month of

under the great acacia tree and saw that the leaves that faced

May is the best time to witness this spectacular natural event.

south were the greenest, and so decided to set out in that di-

But with one of the largest concentrations of predators in the

rection. The search for fertile pastures for their cattle led them

world, encounters with the ‘Big Five’–elephants, lions, leo-

to Cairo, which in Maa means, ‘Where are you going?’, then

pards, buffalo and rhinos– are guaranteed in any season.

to Khartoum in Sudan, meaning, ‘Where can I find you?’,

To go out on safari you have to get up early, better before

and onwards to Ethiopia (‘already went’), Kenya (‘before’)

sunrise. It’s also important to have a good guide who can ex-

and Nairobi (‘a very cold place’), until they finally arrived in

plain what goes unnoticed to the eye. ‘When you live in the

the 17th century at the Serengeti, the ‘land without end’, and

savannah, you have so much time to learn’, says Richard Yoe-

Ngorongoro where ‘they saw clouds’.

za Msuya, the best guide at the Meliá Serengeti Lodge and,

The Serengeti, declared a National Park in 1951 and a World

without a doubt, one of the best in the whole Serengeti.

Heritage Site in 1981, is one of the most complex and well-

The only thing the guests of the Meliá Serengeti Lodge

preserved ecosystems on the planet. Its ‘endless plains’ are

‘complain’ about is the weight they gain during their stays.

known all over the world for their location along the great mi-

Chef Bouya’s delicious meals are to blame. ‘I like to create my

gration route that each year, once the dry season commences,

own interpretations of local Swahili dishes that are heavily influenced by Eastern cuisine, and adapt them for international palates’, the always-smiling Senegalese chef confesses. He runs the hotel’s three dining areas. Open from breakfast to dinnertime, the Savannah Grill offers pizzas, wraps, salads and a colourful buffet that gives each guest the opportunity to concoct their own culinary journey from Africa to the Mediterranean. The Boma is a nod to traditional Maasai buildings, with an open-air circular space surrounding a fireplace, allowing guests to dine under the stars. Dinners for special occasions are celebrated in the barbecue area.

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In the evening, around the Boma fire, the guests continue to exchange stories about their days. The conversations spread to the bar, matched by the rhythmic croaking of the frogs. But now it’s time to retire and rest, and let the leopard prowl freely through the illusive calm of the African night. Tomorrow another exciting day of safari adventures awaits.

CAPE COD The new bathroom series by Philippe Starck. www.duravit.com

IN THE CITY

BUENOS AIRES

TO HEAR YOU ONCE AGAIN

Text: MARÍA CRESPO

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Buenos Aires has its own scent, its own dance, its own rhythm; always the same and yet always different, like an old friend who brings out the best in you or a new lover ready to discover your brightest side. It’s a city that flows with creativity and drama, with grace and authenticity. Its residents, the Porteños, call it the city of a hundred neighbourhoods—although in reality there are only 48.

PHOTO: AGE.

Puente de la Mujer by architect Santiago Calatrava, in Puerto Madero, close to the Meliá Buenos Aires.

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F Below, the entrance of the Meliá Buenos Aires, perfectly located to serve as a base for exploring the city.

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rom March to July, with an average temperature

find the Hotel Meliá Buenos Aires. ‘We’re known for

of 18 degrees, something almost magical happens in

our unbeatable location: a 10-minute walk from Puerto

Buenos Aires. It becomes ‘a multi-coloured paradise of

Madero, home to some of the city’s most prestigious

autumn leaves’, as described by Marta Minujín, one of

restaurants and giant, modern buildings that are driving

the most international contemporary Argentinian artists,

it into the future’, says Guillermo Díaz, General Manager

whose enormous creations and performances are often

of the Hotel Meliá Buenos Aires.

splashed across her city. The acacia and jacaranda trees

‘Buenos Aires is lovely in autumn. The city breathes

embrace and bring relief to travellers in avenues, gardens

with the adventure of the immigrants that set out for

and parks that make you want to stay and settle down (for

America, and there’s something to remind us of it on

good, or just for a while with a good book). They include

every corner. It’s wonderful to enjoy a totally new city,

the Bosques de Palermo and Borges’ beloved Lezama

built up from the mud in very little time, where cultures

Park, where he sometimes stayed until dawn.

mix and retain the freshness of something new. It’s a city

Just a few minutes from the Casa Rosada and the Plaza de Mayo, in the financial and commercial centre, you’ll

that’s alive and thriving, with people full of hopes and dreams that autumn can’t extinguish’, he notes.

PHOTO: AGE.

Above, the hotel’s elegant lobby—one of its hallmarks—and the Azorín restaurant. , the Casa Rosada in the Plaza de Mayo, and a Premium Suite at the Meliá Buenos Aires.

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PHOTO: AGE.

On the left, the lobby bar at the Meliá Buenos Aires, and the indoor pool. On the opposite page, the Floralis Genérica sculpture by Eduardo Catalano, in the Plaza de las Naciones Unidas in Recoleta. , tango on the streets of San Telmo, and a piece in the Ruth Benzacar gallery in Villa Crespo.

the alpargatas and top-quality leather belts at Arandú Talabartería (Ayacucho, 1924) or the luxurious eroticism of Fueguia 1833 (Av. Alvear, 1680), a laboratory of Porteño perfumes. The latter was founded by Julián Bedel and Amalia Amoedo, and its creations have won over Lady Gaga and Elton John, among many others. Wandering around Puerto Madero at twilight, you’ll come across the Puente de la Mujer, a neighbourhood emblem that represents the image of a couple dancing the Porteño tango. This pleasant path leads us toward Chila restaurant (Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo, 1160), headed by chef Pedro Bargero. His tasting menu (also available in a

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With 209 guest rooms, the hotel and its attentive staff

vegetarian version) is the perfect way to discover the roots

meet the standards of even the most demanding travellers.

of Argentinian cuisine with a modern spark. He works

‘It’s extremely modern from the outside, but inside it has

with small producers to prepare seasonal dishes, washed

an incredible European refinement’, explains Díaz. It’s the

down with the best Argentinian wine. Reserve a table

perfect headquarters from which to cross everything off

next to the windows; the twinkling lights are the perfect

your to-do list, from places of hedonistic indulgence to

backdrop for an unforgettable night.

those where you’ll find the perfect souvenir. Don’t forget

The party continues at Florería Atlántico (Arroyo, 872). Where? How? Appearances can be deceiving. Look for a refrigerator door; once you open it, you’ll understand. Incredible drinks await you, like the Espuma de Cynar, the Polaco Blanco and the Bisonte de Varsovia, in an avant-garde atmosphere that exudes pure joy.

THE UP-AND-COMING NEIGHBOURHOOD Villa Crespo

Synagogues and Hebrew signs emanate the cultural essence of this neighbourhood, dating back to 1880, where the Jewish and Syrian-Lebanese communities coalesce. It’s a western corner of Buenos Aires where time and creativity are stretched to make the world a friendly, honest and welcoming place. Here there’s no hurry; only surprises. Tables on carefree terraces offer up games, wisdom, time and delicious coffee. And it’s precisely this contemporary culture that’s bringing new character to the neighbourhood. To see for yourself, check out the geometric designs of Jessica Trosman and her brand ‘Not to be understood’ (@ jtbyjt on Instagram) at Humboldt, 291. Part shop, part workshop and part textile laboratory, it’s an alluring explosion of talent. Dive into some of the area’s best art galleries, like Ruth Benzacar Galería de Arte (Juan Ramírez de Velasco, 1287), a local landmark founded in 1965. Don’t miss the strong and always interesting Galería Nora Fisch (Av. Córdoba, 5222) and HACHE (Loyola, 32), centred on Argentinian and Latin-American artists with a special focus on ‘the anthropological, sociological, economic and political transformations surrounding rural and urban life, and the displacement of human beings toward large cities’.

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PHOTO: AGE.

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PHOTO: MISHIGUENE COCINA DE INMIGRANTES.

HOT SPOTS If you’re in search of the city’s cuisine, art and craftsmanship, locals always provide the best clues. Mishiguene Cocina de Inmigrantes (Lafinur, 3368) is a contemporary Jewish-Argentinian restaurant with the coveted stamp of chef Tomás Kalika. Its name refers to ‘delightfully mad’ people in Yiddish. Every Shabbat Friday, this place overflows with energy and life (get ready to sing and dance). In fact, it was ranked number 50 of the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America in 2017. If craftsmanship is your thing, Facon (Nicaragua, 4880) is a shop that reflects its owner Martín Bustamante’s love for travel and Argentinian talent. The pieces here are constantly changing, and in each of them you can sense the reflection of a silversmith, a wood worker, a patient weaver or a creative designer. For those who need a dose of art, there’s Henrique Faria Buenos Aires (Libertad, 1630). With triple the space and ceilings up to seven metres high, this iconic gallery will continue to surprise even the most demanding of collectors at its new location.

The lobby of the Meliá Recoleta Plaza, located close to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.

But if there’s one neighbourhood that represents the essence of Buenos Aires, it’s La Recoleta, which boasts the best designer shops and the majestic cemetery of the same name. Close to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) and Avenida Corrientes (home to major theatres like the Ópera, Astral and San Martín), you’ll find the magnificent, beautifully landscaped Meliá Recoleta Plaza Hotel. ‘This is a historic building, having been the first residence of Eva Perón in Buenos Aires between 1942 and 1944. This fact is recognised by a resolution of the city legislature’, says Damián Pais, General Manager of the Meliá Recoleta Plaza Hotel. Warning: you run the serious risk of making this

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your Buenos Aires autumn residence for life. ‘It’s an extraordinarily luxurious hotel, and throughout the facilities you can enjoy finely selected pieces of art, soak in the sun on our terrace, take a refreshing dip in our pool, attend a jazz show right in the hotel and end your day with a relaxing massage or a trip to our spa’, the manager tells us.

Everyone deserves the coffee they love

This coffee was grown by UTZ certified farmers. www.utz.org

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Above, the breakfast area of the Meliá Recoleta Plaza hotel, and the jacuzzi in the hotel’s One Spa. Below, a Deluxe Room and the bathroom of a suite at the Meliá Recoleta Plaza.

Delve into one of the world’s most beautiful burial places:

Stroll aimlessly among embassies and palaces, letting

La Recoleta Cemetery. Its labyrinthine streets are full of

your eyes capture the elegant essence of Buenos Aires,

sculptures and fraught with historical figures, including

and celebrate its beauty at the area’s best eateries. At

Eva Perón, 21 national presidents and 28 local mayors—plus

number 1519 on Calle Posadas, near the corner where it

hundreds of stories that will help you understand the city’s

meets Callao, you’ll find Fervor: a classic and sophisticated

evolution. Its 54,843 square metres contain 4,780 burial vaults,

culinary concept. Try their mollejas (sweetbreads),

the majority of which are privately owned in perpetuity.

provoleta, Argentinian beef and grilled seafood. The

Combine a classic and timeless lomito sandwich at La Rambla (Posadas, 1602) with the modernity of the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA) and its fantastic shop.

warm atmosphere and personal service win over locals and travellers alike. ‘Buenos Aires is the other street, where I never set foot; it’s the secret centre of the blocks, the rooftop patios; it’s what the facades hide’, wrote Jorge Francisco Isidoro Luis Borges Acevedo—better known as Borges—the universally beloved Porteño. I’ll have to hear you once again, Buenos Aires, and let your days be open and fertile with possibilities.

Teka, Global bathroom solutions www.teka.com

Above, the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredible location and pool. Below, the IguazĂş Falls, and on the right, a room with a view and part of the spa.

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THE PLACE WHERE CLOUDS ARE BORN Iguazú Falls

Those who’ve experienced it never forget its lull and roar. This is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, one of those places that every traveller should see at least once, where life opens up in all its luscious immensity. 80 metres high and 2,700 wide, the waterfalls, which mark the border between Argentina and Brazil, have an unforgettable and hypnotic beauty. The rushing waters, mist and incredible roar dominate a landscape of humid subtropical rainforest. Why not wake up beside it, or take a shower with it right outside your window? ‘Meliá Iguazú is the only hotel in the area located within Iguazú National Park, allowing direct access to the park and its waterfalls’, explains Victor Zafer Dönmez, (Regional) Operations Senior Director for the Americas. Half of the rooms in the hotel, which is currently under renovation, have views of the falls, and the other half look out to the jungle. ‘All the rooms will be completely renovated, with the creation of more suites like the Royal Suite, Presidential Suite and Master Suites, all with views of the waterfalls’, Zafer Dönmez continues. There will be a pool for children and an infinity pool that blends into the natural beauty of the rosewoods (trees that grow over 40 metres tall), palmettos (typical palm trees), kapoks (with their distinctive red flowers), monkey puzzle trees, pink lapacho trees, leafy ferns and more than 40 types of orchids. Two restaurants (one open all day and the other gourmet); two bars; a new lobby; a spa with massage rooms; and the chance to explore the park, its flora and fauna in virtual reality… these are just some of the new features that future guests will find. ‘To really get to know and experience the whole park and to enjoy the surrounding area, the city of Puerto de Iguazú and the unparalleled hospitality of Meliá, we recommend that you stay for at least 3 days’, suggets Zafer Dönmez. Some of the most popular options among travellers hoping to discover the area are hiking, mountain biking, safari tours and boat tours that take you right up to the falls. But don’t forget to consult the lunar calendar before you go. ‘Every month, hotel guests can get tickets for night-time visits under the full moon (organised by Iguazú National Park)’. The more than 270 cascades will put things in perspective, while you’re picking up your jaw from where it’s fallen to the floor. Located in the province of Misiones in the northeast corner of Argentina, the hotel is just 30 minutes from Paraguay and Brazil, ‘with a very pleasant and fast customs control at the border’, according to Zafer Dönmez. In autumn temperatures in the area range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, with a chance of rain an average of seven days a month. Experiencing this natural spectacle, the immensity of its thundering roar and the delicacy of the subtle flapping of butterflies in the fog—and learning about the Guaraní culture—will leave an indelible mark on every traveller.

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Sitges,

TRENDY

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PHOTO: FÃ&#x2030;LIX LORENZO.

the place to be

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ME SITGES TERRAMAR

Cosmopolitan, avant-garde and pioneering, with a vast cultural tradition, Sitges has always been a point of reference for art lovers and beautiful people. With the recent opening of the ME Sitges Terramar, it’s taken one step further towards becoming the most chic and trendy spot on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Text: YVONNE SOLÉ SCHNABEL

The hotel is located right by the beach, making it the perfect place to go out and enjoy the sunset.

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itges is often compared to Saint-Tropez. And

for good reason: located just half an hour from Barcelona,

same historic building, this legendary space is available to the public again, now under the name of Vintage Studio.

it’s one of the most expensive cities per square metre in

In fact, according to hotel manager René Hoetschl, ‘it’s

Europe. What makes it so coveted? A pleasant climate all

one of the most special spaces, since it’s been completely

year round; lovely 17th-century architecture in its charming,

reformed while maintaining some of the original elements—

lively and perfectly preserved historic centre; a long seaside

like the crystal chandeliers, the valances and the bathroom

promenade dotted with palm trees that border clean and

sinks—in a nod to its most magnificent era, although the rest

well-kept beaches; marinas where yachts can be docked;

has been modernised in accordance with the establishment’s

and, of course, a past and present teeming with art in all its

aesthetic’. It’s an aesthetic that reinterprets luxury through

forms. Sitges has been home to many artists of every kind.

a Mediterranean lens. The design, an essential attribute

According to them, it provides the inspiration they need to

of the ME by Meliá hotels, takes a starring role at this

create. But they aren’t the only ones who’ve been attracted

one in particular. It seeks balance between minimalism

to the city. The early 20th-century Catalonian bourgeoisie

and sophistication, cutting-edge technology and luxury,

also discovered it, and that’s how it managed to position

throughout the vast spaces, terraces and gardens of the hotel.

itself as the holiday destination of the elite. In that era, the Terramar Palace hotel was the requisite

TOP-NOTCH CUISINE

meeting point for everyone wanting to see and be seen.

Just as it was in the past, the hotel’s philosophy is centred on

Its grand social lounge hosted birthdays, anniversaries,

becoming a gathering place for the people of Sitges. For this

weddings and all kinds of high-society gatherings. For a

reason, its five culinary spaces are also open to the public.

time the Spanish Civil War turned this iconic hotel into a

This aspect of the hotel is managed entirely by Grupo B (of

military hospital, but soon after it was once again filled with

Bilbao Berria and Beso Beach), a group that unites the Basque

glamorous guests who had something to celebrate. With

culinary tradition—and the strong lifestyle component of

the recent opening of the ME Sitges Terramar, located in the

Beso Beach—with extensive experience in managing highly

You can see the city’s stately beachfront homes from the seaside promenade.

116

PHOTO: FÉLIX LORENZO.

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COMMITMENT TO ART ME Sitges Terramar

The ME Sitges Terramar is dedicated to the patronage and promotion of art. Music is always present at the hotel, especially at the Radio Rooftop Bar, and ME actively participates in the cultural scene with an extensive schedule of activities and events related to music, art and fashion in Barcelona and Sitges. The hotel also supports local events like the Terramar Garden Festival, which is celebrated in summer not far from the property.

At the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Radio Rooftop Bar, you can enjoy a drink along with music from the best DJs.

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Everything flows naturally in the Vibe room, with views of the sea. It strikes the perfect balance between minimalism, technology and modernity.

successful restaurants in Formentera, Bilbao, Barcelona and Tulum. The ME restaurants aim to establish themselves as one of the most important parts of the destination, like the sophisticated Radio Rooftop Bar ME Sitges, where Asian fusion cuisine and premium drinks take centre stage along with chill-out music. The main restaurant, Terramar, has spectacular views of the beach and a menu full of passion— with an edgy twist. The relaxed, entertaining atmosphere is perfect for sampling a whole range of Mediterranean cuisine, including excellent paella. After Easter, the Beso Beach Club creates a one-of-a-kind ambience along with haute cuisine and the sense of freedom and purity Beso Beach is known for. The Oyster Bar, in the hotel’s inviting foyer, lets you enjoy oysters and other snacks from the sea—plus premium

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Provoke the WOW! emotion on your guests... ... and they will come back!

Specialist in hotel technology. www.zennio.com

EXCLUSIVITY AND CUSTOM SERVICES ME Sitges Terramar

One of the things that make ME hotels so special is the way they allow guests to create a unique and totally personalised experience. At the ME Sitges Terramar, for example, customers can enjoy a package that includes a journey by private jet from anywhere in the world, personalised service from an Aura Manager who accompanies them on the flight, private transfer in a Range Rover and accommodation in the hotel’s best suites. Even the catering can be adapted to each guest’s tastes and preferences. In addition, the hotel organises all kinds of custom experiences, like boat excursions and visits by helicopter to DO Penedès and Priorat wineries.

The ME Sitges Terramar has become a leader in luxury hospitality in Sitges, one of the most exclusive destinations in the Mediterranean.

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LUXURY HOTELS INSPIRED BY THE EUROPEAN LIFESTYLE

#THEMESCENE CABO

IBIZA MADRID DUBAI (2019)

MALLORCA MIL AN BARCELONA (2020)

MIAMI LONDON DOHA (2020)

Information and reservations at your travel agency or mebymelia.com

SITGES

cheese and charcuterie and a long list of wines, cavas and

by Miquel Utrillo and is one of the most typical examples of

champagne—as soon as you check in. Finally, Pool Bites is

Noucentisme among all the city’s architectural and artistic

a seductive space open to the sea, with all the comforts of a

complexes. The latter is the former home and workshop of

pool. Its relaxing environment decorated in shades of white,

Santiago Rusiñol. Here you can learn more about the life of

plus healthy and energising fruit juices and smoothies

one of the best representatives of Modernism in Catalonia,

combined with superfoods, help guests get over hectic

while admiring works by Picasso and El Greco.

nights—or just take care of themselves while they enjoy the sun and the sea breeze.

It’s also worth visiting the modern art on display at Fundació Stämpfli, the old Mercat del Peix (Fish Market) and the baroque Iglesia de San Bartolomé y Santa Tecla, a church

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Above, the Terramar restaurant invites you to discover Mediterranean cuisine with an edgy twist. The beachside pool is another of the hotel’s musts.

CULTIVATE THE MIND

that rises above the sea and is the most photographed

In addition to cuisine, guests can enjoy activities that

local landmark. Events in the city continue nearly non-

indulge the body (like yoga or golf on the nearby greens)

stop throughout the whole year. Some highlights include

and stimulate the mind with cultural tours of Sitges. One

Carnival, Sitges Gay Pride, the Sitges Film Festival, the

interesting example is a tour through the main modernist

International Tango Festival, the Swing Dancing Festival, the

buildings. You can start at the train station and continue

Terramar Garden Festival and Sitgestiu Cultural.

with a visit to the Casa Bacardí, where you’ll find out about

With this social schedule and its incomparable surroundings,

the history of the brand and sample their rum, as well as

‘the ME Sitges Terramar will be the hotel destination of the

learning how to mix a cocktail.

Mediterranean coast, a must-visit for a sophisticated clientele

On both the seaside promenade and in the historic quarter

looking for a place to rest the body and mind. The ME Sitges

you’ll find a unique style of houses, known as 'americanos' or

fully expresses the attributes of the ME by Meliá brand,

'indianos', that were built by Sitges locals who returned with

which have captivated the most demanding travellers on the

riches from their journeys to the Americas. Top it all off with

beaches of Ibiza, Mallorca and Los Cabos’, says Hoeltschl. The

the iconic Maricel Palace and the Cau Ferrat Museum. The

hotel offers 213 guest rooms decorated in soft colours and

former, which celebrates its centenary this year, houses works

refined lines, almost all of which have fantastic sea views. There are the signature Chic Suite, Personality Suite and Suite ME, plus energising rooms that connect with the guest: Aura, Vibe, Energy and Mode. Everything is designed to make your stay at ME a special, exclusive and unique experience in an unparalleled setting.

POOLS

SOL BEACH HOUSE PHU QUOC · VIETNAM. At the Ola Beach Club pool, sunsets are best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand.

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MELIÁ SERENGETI LODGE · TANZANIA. Watch the wildlife from this infinity pool in the heart of the Serengeti National Park: a truly unique expererience.

DREA

DIP INTO A

Text: EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

PARADISUS PALMA REAL · PUNTA CANA · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC. At one of the resort's five pools, unwind with a 'coco loco' after a long day on the beach.

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GRAN MELIÁ PALACIO DE ISORA · TENERIFE · SPAIN. At 125 metres in length, Europe’s largest infinity pool is also one of its most beautiful.

MELIÁ SALINAS · LANZAROTE · CANARY ISLANDS · SPAIN.The exclusive Sanctuary by The Level Lounge service invites you to plunge into this pool, surrounded by palm trees.

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MELIÁ ZANZIBAR · TANZANIA.Wake up to your own private villa pool, with views of the sun’s reflection on the Indian Ocean and a white sandy beach. Perfectly romantic.

GRAN MELIÁ DE MAR · MALLORCA.The magical Mediterranean light illuminates this pool, set in an exclusive cove among the scent of pine trees.

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ME IBIZA · SPAIN. Drink in the sophisticated lifestyle of Ibiza at this rooftop infinity pool, with views of an exclusive bay and direct access by boat.

11th& 12 th MAY 2018

CALVIÀ MALLORCA

“An experience going beyond music"

THE PRODIGY · PRIMAL SCREAM

IZAL · !!! (CHK CHK CHK) · KASE.O · BLACK LIPS SOLOMUN · NINA KRAVIZ · VITALIC LIVE · HENRIK SCHWARZ MACACO · LA CASA AZUL · MUCHACHITO · LA RAÍZ EL COLUMPIO ASESINO · L.A. · SEXY SADIE · MORGAN · POLOCK (20 ANIVERSARIO DE IT'S BEAUTIFUL IT'S LOVE)

BAD GYAL · CHANCHA VIA CIRCUITO · OSO LEONE · LOS ESPÍRITUS SOBRINUS · EL PETIT DE CAL ERIL · DJ COCO · DJS FROM MARS AND MANY MORE

BEACH • SUN • FOOD • ACTIVITIES • STREET ART • PERFORMANCES FOOD TRUCKS • VISUAL ARTS • CHILL OUT AREA

Produce: Mallorca Live Festival AIE

Info and sales of tickets online: www.mallorcalivefestival.com

#MallorcaLive18

SWEET & SUITE

MELIÁ BA VI MOUNTAIN RETREAT / SOL BEACH HOUSE PHU QUOC

Two hideouts for a wellness getaway in

VIETNAM

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The long and narrow country of Vietnam stretches over the South China Sea. It’s a land cloaked in rice fields and beaches, mountains inhabited by small ethnic groups and cities ridden with floods of motorbikes that have usurped the terrain of rickshaws and bicycles. After witnessing the urban madness of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can delight in just the opposite: soothing massages, yoga sessions and holistic treatments provided at the Meliá group’s countryside hideaways. Text: ELENA DEL AMO

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ust like ‘British humour’ or ‘Swiss punctuality’, the

expression ‘Asian luxury’ wasn’t coined by chance. Yet the continent is rather huge, so perhaps the cliché should’ve been more specific. It wouldn’t have such a nice ring to it, but Southeast Asia in particular is where luxury hotels offer the highest-quality services and attention to detail, setting them far apart from other latitudes. In Vietnam, at least, this phrase fits like a glove. The country is incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy top destinations like Ha Long Bay, the effervescence of Hanoi, the imperial footprint of Hue, the oriental charm of Hoi An or walks among the rice fields of the Mekong Delta and the mountains of Sa Pa. There’s an endless number of excuses to travel here—for foodies, shopaholics and hedonists alike. After an exhausting day of haggling your way through the capital’s old quarter in search of crafts or spot-on imitations at bargain prices, you can always find a place to get a rejuvenating massage and gain your strength back, even late at night. And if you start to notice the collateral damage of Vietnamese cuisine around your waistline—by becoming an expert on either the best restaurants or the thousands of street stalls cooking up authentic delicacies—every morning at dawn you can join hordes of retirees, housewives and neighbours who meet at parks and lakes to practice the hypnotic movements of tai chi before going to work. The balance between body, mind and spirit is extremely ingrained in the local culture. It’s no coincidence that Vietnam, with its abundance of stunning natural settings, has become a mecca for wellness. More and more Europeans are escaping here to unwind and disconnect. If you’re tempted to join them, read on.

without running or ever turning back. Rest assured that drivers calculate pedestrians’ pace to the nearest millimetre,

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MELIÁ BA VI MOUNTAIN RETREAT

brushing right up against them and passing by just when a

Pedestrians beware: only a fool would take a stroll

crash seems inevitable.

through Hanoi without having previously learned how

If you’re still not convinced by this tip, you can always cross

to walk here—literally! Traffic in the capital is so wild that

the street while taking shelter behind a local passer-by, or get

the colour of stoplights, the direction of the road and even

some practice in the pedestrian parts of Hanoi’s beautiful

the humble signs saying ‘prohibited’ seem to be deemed as

old quarter. Shopping in this area can be as addictive as the

mere administrative opinions, to which nobody pays any

ambience in the afternoon, when tiny bars are set up along

attention. As a result, swarms of motorbikes zip through

the pavements. After a few days of battling the blessed chaos

the streets with no apparent rhyme or reason—and half the

in the capital, the body cries out for a bit of peace and quiet.

family aboard—in a crazy urban choreography in which

You’ll find all the tranquillity you’re looking for—and then

there are rarely accidents (must be a thing of the gods!).

some—about an hour and a half away, at the five-star Meliá

To come out alive, simply cross the street at a normal pace,

that opened last March. During the colonial era, the French would get away from Hanoi’s sticky heat by visiting the national park that this hotel is named after. Residences and clubs were built for officers and their families amidst the green hills. After independence in 1945, they were ordered to be demolished.

On the left, the bathroom of one of the family suites; views from the resort and the king size bed of a family suite at the Meliรก Ba Vi Mountain Retreat. On the previous page, a view of the hotel, and to its right, the beach at the Sol Beach House Phu Quoc.

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A TAPESTRY OF CULTURES

PHOTO: AGE.

More than fifty ethnic minority groups live throughout Vietnam, each one with their own language, customs and distinctive way of dressing. The rice-covered mountains of Sa Pa, almost on the border with China, are an important enclave for these populations. Starting from the hotel, you can also visit the villages and markets of the Muong, Kinh and Dao people, famous for their ancient use of medicinal herbs, throughout the Ba Vi district.

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Ba Vi Mountain Retreat was conceived 600 metres above

where you can go fishing, kayaking or exploring by foot or

sea level, with breathtaking views over the northern delta

bicycle, catching a glimpse of the beautifully coloured birds

and inspiration from the forgotten ruins. According to the

and butterflies. Ethnic groups like the Kinh, Muong and Dao

manager of this exclusive and exotic refuge, Mr Hai Do, ‘one

also live in these mountains. Without leaving the hotel, you

of our highlights is the design that fuses colonial taste with

can take part in cooking workshops that use products from

traditional Vietnamese architecture’.

the organic garden, as well as meditation and yoga classes.

It features tropical wood in all the rooms, earth-toned

Then, of course, there’s the YHI Spa, where you can balance

upholstery and large verandas overlooking the forests,

your body and mind through a philosophy based on the five elements, as well as essential oils, herbs and spices that have been used as secret recipes for health and beauty in Asia since ancient times. The swimming pool is a veritable oasis in the middle of the wilderness. The flavours of old Indochina overwhelm

the senses, especially at the Tonkin restaurant, and even more so at the 1902 bar, where you can enjoy the nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last cocktail surrounded by a colonial atmosphere. The terrace offers immense panoramic views overlooking Ba Vi National Park, its hills and its jungle.

On the left, a room with an extra large bed at the Sol Beach House Phu Quoc; details of the room and an aerial view of the pool area at sunset.

SOL BEACH HOUSE PHU QUOC At the opposite end of Vietnam, you can hop aboard cruise ships that cross the Mekong Delta, departing from the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City towards the small island

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On the right, the bar and main lobby of the Sol Beach House Phu Quoc. Below it, a welcoming greeting, and the stone sculptures that represent agricultural work on the island.

of Phu Quoc. The southern capital, which many still call by its old name Saigon, embodies the unstoppable growth that began in Vietnam in the eighties, even more so than Hanoi. Its pace is so frantic that, after exploring the Chinese neighbourhood of Cholon and the few colonial traces that have survived among the city’s skyscrapers, the rural landscapes of the delta stretching off to the sea will be a source of comfort. It’s fascinating to peer through the branches and spy on the locals who come by canoe to sell their produce to wholesaler barges. Within these floating markets, you can easily spot the merchandise on offer by looking at the long stick on each boat’s bow, hung with fish, seafood and vegetables that most westerners have likely never seen before. But the real king here is rice. In fact, the area along the delta alone produces enough rice to feed all of Vietnam, and there are still plenty of extra tons to be exported. Among the maze of the Mekong, you can also catch a glimpse of Khmer temples; women doing laundry in

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PHOTO: AGE.

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Light is life.

Voiles by Céline Wright

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the chocolate-coloured waters; and tiny unpaved roads that are happily shared by pedestrians, oxen, lorries and motorbikes carrying three or four passengers, or even entire families, perfectly balanced on one seat. Meanwhile, a unique and endless row of roadside houses, with direct access to the rice fields from their back doors, fade into the distance. Like a scene straight out of a documentary film, all of this is slowly revealed from the decks of the cruise ships that, after a few daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; journey, reach the point

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The Sol Beach House and its forms of relaxation: the hotel's main pool; a Vietnamese meal; a sun lounger to enjoy the fresh air; and the spa.

where the ferry continues to Phu Quoc: an off-the-beatenpath destination thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also accessible by plane. Incredibly close to the coast of Cambodia, much of this little island in the Gulf of Thailand is occupied by the national park of the same name, which is also situated in a biosphere reserve recognised by UNESCO. Along

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Truong Beach—one of the island’s best—you’ll find the

organised by the resort, which opened less than two years

Sol Beach House Phu Quoc. Each and every one of its

ago. There are many more tempting activities to try, from

employees, and most likely all of its guests, agree that

sports like volleyball and aqua-fitness to cooking classes

it offers one of the most stunning sunsets they’ve ever

taught by chefs. Take a ride on a cute vintage bike and

seen. The sunrise is also worth catching, especially if you

explore the island’s trails amidst nature, secret picture-

want to start your day with a yoga or tai chi class on the

perfect beaches and pearl farms where you can witness

white sand, surrounded by tropical gardens and throngs

the cultivation process—and get a treasure to take home.

of palm trees.

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Above, sunset on the beach at the Sol Beach House Phu Quoc.

But, without a doubt, at some point you’ll have to find

After that, have a Western-style breakfast or an

the time to enjoy the Body & Sol spa. One of the most

obligatory bowl of pho; drink a freshly squeezed juice

popular programmes offers three hours of total relaxation,

from the natural juice bar; or even enjoy brunch in your

with a combination of various massage techniques from

bikini while gazing out to sea. Let time pass you by as

the East and the West to help you release energy, loosen

you loll on the Bali beds or wade in the huge infinity

every muscle in your body and feel completely stress-

pool. Alternatively, you can traverse the crystal clear

free... until it’s time to pack your bags and return to the

waters with one of the kayaks and paddleboards available

real world. Every evening during your stay, you can

to guests. Or, if you prefer, join one of the snorkelling

savour Mediterranean-style seafood and international

expeditions that take place around mid morning and are

flavours at the resort’s restaurants. As noted by Raúl Mateo, General Manager at Sol Beach House Phu Quoc, you’ll also enjoy ‘the casual atmosphere of our secret paradise, especially when the sun starts to go down at the Ola Beach Club, letting you see off the day with a perfect sunset accompanied by cocktails and DJ sessions’.

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• FOOD & BEVERAGE • BUSINESS TOURISM • A NEW WELLNESS • A PASSION FOR GOLF • MELIÁ FOR FAMILIES • MELIÁ FOR ADULTS • OUR PARTNERS • AWARDS

You'll never want to leave the Innside Palma Bosque in Palma de Mallorca. It's a new and versatile hotel for both business meetings and holidays.

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FOOD&BEVERAGE

THE NEW ARADO RESTAURANT

A culinary oasis on Madrid’s Golden Mile

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The new Arado restaurant at the Meliá Serrano in Madrid offers gourmet dishes inspired by traditional Spanish cuisine.

s stylish and chic as the

Featuring local DO ingredients,

the luxurious lifestyle of the surrounding area.

neighbourhood around it, the new

the menu pays homage to traditional

Arado Grocery & Restaurant has

cooking, with soups and stews

already become a gathering place in

from all over Spain served daily.

after a day of boutique shopping on

the area near Calle Serrano, right in

Traditional recipes are brought up

Serrano, a business meeting, a long

the heart of the Salamanca district.

to date by chef David Masllorens,

post-meal conversation (a typical

It’s based on gourmet products and

a seasoned veteran of the kitchens

Spanish pastime) or a relaxing drink

the best raw materials in Spain, with

of prestigious restaurants like

after work. The gorgeous bar also

a cocktail bar and indoor terrace that

Arzak. His experience allows him to

hosts an exciting line-up of events,

lend the restaurant a relaxed ambience.

experiment with powerful flavours,

inspired by the best international

The ‘all-day dining’ concept lets you

playing with textures and tastes

venues where legendary leisure,

eat at any time, with dishes ranging

and elevating the concept of a

entertainment and cuisine coexist

from a traditional Spanish stew to a

traditional bistro.

under one roof. It’s Serrano’s

burger made with meat sourced from the nearby Guadarrama mountains.

The sophisticated, modern and comfortable space epitomises

It’s the perfect place for a pit stop

answer to Park Avenue (NYC), right here in Madrid.

BUSINESS TOURISM

The Palau de Congressos in Palma

celebrates a year of success welcoming more than 30,000 attendees

of shapes and materials breathe life

between April and December—bear

into this masterpiece of efficient

testament to the great reception it has

and modern design, occupying

experienced in the MICE market.

a total surface area of more than

In addition, it has hosted several

adjoining Meliá Palma Bay hotel,

promotion of local culture and

which contains 268 rooms.

urban development, reaffirming

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For decades the island of Mallorca

its goal to become a meeting point

has placed the blame on a lack of

for Mallorcans and a gateway to

infrastructure for preventing it from

knowledge and entrepreneurship in

becoming a leading destination for business travel. In April of 2017, the

the Balearic Islands. most versatile in the Mediterranean

hotel came under the management of

hotel, the Meliá Palma Bay,

and a jewel of contemporary

Meliá Hotels International, who took

recently celebrated their one-year

architecture. It responds to the current

responsibility for their success and for

anniversary. Since opening, they

needs of event organisers, who want

positioning the city of Palma as a top

have demonstrated their ability to

to offer their customers additional,

destination for business travel in the

dramatically transform the city’s

complementary experiences. Designed

Mediterranean and Europe.

tourism industry, improving revenue

by the renowned architect Patxi

and occupancy rates and extending

Mangado, the Palau won the Spanish

Queen of Spain presided over the

tourism activity beyond peak season

Architecture Award in 2017, the

official inauguration, an event that

into the slower months.

highest architectural honour in Spain,

was full of symbolism and dedicated

he Palau and its adjoining

Above, the King of Spain with Gabriel Escarrer Julia, the founder of Meliá Hotels International, at the inauguration of the Palau de Congressos in Palma de Mallorca.

56,000 square metres, along with the

activities and events related to the

The convention centre is one of the

convention centre and the adjoining

Their Majesties the King and

which underscores the innovative

to the tourism industry and its key

for local, national and international

character of this local icon—located

role in driving social and economic

events in the city of Palma. The results

right on the Paseo Marítimo

development in the Balearic Islands

of its first few months of operation—

promenade. A unique combination

for decades.

The Palau has become a new host

WELLNESS

Spa my blend by

CLARINS

Health and beauty in the eternal city

he first skincare brand to

incorporate lifestyle factors (climate, sleep, diet, stress, etc.) in developing their formulas, Clarins has its very own sanctuary at the Gran Meliรก Rome: a unique and charming spa, surrounded by the legends of the ancient Italian capital and the spectacular landscapes of Agrippina. My Blend offers a range of products suited to the various needs

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The relaxing spaces of the Spa by Clarins, a true beauty sanctuary at the Gran Meliรก Rome Villa Agrippina.

of the skin, with a personalised approach based on exclusive diagnostics software, My Skin Diag, which investigates, photographs, analyses, diagnoses and prescribes the right skincare regime in real

This rejuvenating treatment is one

Gran Meliรก Rome menu includes the

time. High-precision analysis of the

of the most sought after. Other facial

Imperial Ritual, the Mediterranean

skin is combined with a lifestyle

and body treatments are also offered,

Body Scrub, the Anti Stress Remedy for

and habits questionnaire to create a

as well as a wide range of massages

your scalp and face and the Sensorial

precise mix for each individual.

and classic rituals by Clarins. The

Journey, among other options.

GOLF

A PASSION FOR GOLF THE TWELFTH MELIÁ HOTELS

INTERNATIONAL GOLF CIRCUIT

his year will be another special

year for Meliá Hotels International, with the celebration of the 12th edition

will be enjoyed in all the splendour of

Muntaner, which features spectacular

of its annual golf tournament. It’s a

early summer.

greens. Once again, the finalists will

single-player invite-only event for

is the Real Club de Golf de La Coruña,

contacts and customers, following the

the ‘Zapateira’. During the competition

Stableford scoring system.

be announced here for the final in the Levante region. The grand finale of this edition will

here in July, guests will experience a

be held in November at the Meliá

Taking a look at this year’s calendar,

magnificent atmosphere of golf and

Villaitana Golf Club on Alicante’s

the opening competition in Andalusia

exceptional service, as is the norm at

Costa Blanca. Several days later, the

stands out. It kicks off in May at a truly

this historic club.

Staysure Tour (European Senior Tour)

luxurious location—the Real Club

Above, Buenavista Golf, designed by Severiano Ballesteros and located next to the Meliá Hacienda del Conde hotel in northern Tenerife.

One essential part of the 2018 circuit

the company’s most outstanding

At the end of the summer, the circuit

will take place at the same club, with

Sevilla Golf—that has already played

returns with the fifth test at the idyllic

Miguel Ángel Jiménez, ‘El Pisha’,

host to great tournaments and circuits

Buenavista Golf course, which is

serving as ambassador. After the final

in the past, and has always been

well known for hosting the final last

competition of the twelfth Meliá Golf

synonymous with success in the eyes

year. It’s located steps away from the

Circuit, the highest ranked players

of Meliá and its sponsors.

Meliá Hacienda del Conde hotel, with

in the league, and therefore the

views of the azure Atlantic waters.

winners, will be announced.

will move to the Basque Laukariz

This hugely enjoyable and highly

They will then accompany the 52

Country Club, then to Madrid’s Golf

competitive course was designed by

highest ranked senior players in the

Santander club in June. It snowed

Severiano Ballesteros.

days leading up to the 2018 Costa

After the initial event, the circuit

during last year’s competition at this exceptional location, but this year it

The circuit moves to Mallorca in October for a special contest at Son

Blanca Benidorm Senior Masters Pro-Am competition .

2nd EDITION OF THE RYDER CUP CANARY ISLANDS-U.K. Part of the third Seve Ballesteros Memorial Tournament

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On Friday, 12 May, the Meliá Hacienda del Conde hotel and Buenavista Golf will celebrate the second edition of the Ryder Cup Canary Islands-U.K., as part of the programme of events for the third Seve Ballesteros Memorial Tournament. For the second year running, the competition will pit teams from the U.K. and the Canary Islands against each other, with locals hoping to get revenge for last year. Played in a single day, the competition will include both an individual event and one played in pairs, with two teams of 10 players each facing off. They will be headed by Mike McCarthy, captain of the U.K. team, and Luis Claverie, captain of the Canary Islands team. The list of players on both teams will feature renowned figures and professionals from the international golf world, demonstrating their support of the Meliá Hacienda del Conde’s commitment to golf.

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MELIÁ FOR FAMILIES The perfect hotel for visiting

SHANGHAI DISNEYLAND PARK

he Meliá Shanghai Parkside

will be the first international hotel to be strategically located across from

and the Bund are 230 minutes away.

tableware, all designed for kids.

The hotel’s exterior follows the

At the park’s restaurants, you’ll

Shanghainese architectural style

find first-class food with a touch

Disneyland Park, close to the metro

known as Shikumen. The 88 spacious

of Spanish passion and Shanghai

and only 20 minutes from Shanghai

guest rooms are modern and

finesse. Inspired by the Meliá

Pudong International Airport, the

welcoming, with high ceilings and

brand’s Spanish heritage, the

city’s main airport.

views of the natural surroundings.

Mosaico restaurant offers delectable

The hotel’s Family Rooms will exceed

dishes all day, bringing you a

for families that want to experience

everyone’s expectations. Specially

mosaic of flavours from Spanish-

the Disney park attractions while

designed to meet the needs of families

Mediterranean, international and

also enjoying the services and

with children, they feature king size

local cuisines. Garbo Cava & Wine

facilities of a luxury boutique hotel.

beds and a queen size sofa bed, and

Bar, inspired by the old Hollywood

A short 12-minute walk from the

are located on the second floor of the

glamour of the 1950s, adds a touch

hotel lobby will take you to the

hotel. The hotel has also thought of

of class to the park’s culinary

theme park and Disneytown,

every last detail for the little ones,

experience. Its highlights include

where you’ll find many bars and

including a children’s check-in folder,

Spanish tapas, Asian snacks and

restaurants to try while you take a

welcome amenities, an outdoor play

wine and beer tastings.

PHOTO: SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT.

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area, turndown service, menus and

the main entrance of the Shanghai

The hotel will be the perfect choice

Below, Shanghai Disneyland Park, located just opposite the Meliá Shanghai Parkside hotel, and one of the hotel’s suites.

break from the fun. The city centre

“A landscape can change you forever” RICHARD YOEZA SAFARI GUIDE AT MELIÁ SERENGETI

Soul Matters More than 100 hotels in 30 countries and 4 continents EUROPE AMERICA AFRICA ASIA Follow us on

MELIÁ FOR ADULTS

Sol Beach House at Meliá Fuerteventura

A HOTEL FOR FREE SPIRITS

or those looking for an active

beach holiday, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands offers one of

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The beach is the true star at the Sol Beach House at Meliá Fuerteventura. Above, two different types of room and The Kitchen restaurant.

internationally recognised René Egli

Every guest room has a small

windsurfing and kitesurfing school.

balcony with a view of the sea, the

Specially designed by and for

lagoon or the hotel’s subtropical

the latest additions to the Meliá

athletes, this ‘adults only’ hotel only

garden: a beautiful orchard with

group, which has already caused a

admits guests over the age of 16 (and

indigenous plants and, of course,

stir: the Sol Beach House at Meliá

their pets) and promises incredibly

hundreds of cacti.

Fuerteventura hotel, strategically

active holidays. Each day begins with

positioned right by the Sotavento

a great breakfast at the buffet, with

bright, decorated in a Mediterranean

beach in the Jandía Natural Park.

the ocean right outside the window.

style with shades of white and

It’s an ideal location, with hotel

Choose from all kinds of food, fruit,

natural wood, vintage touches and

rooms boasting views of the sea

detox juices, bread and pastries, cured

textiles by the Desigual brand. They

and the impressive lagoon created

meats and various hot dishes, with

reflect the fresh and carefree spirit of

by the tide; The Kitchen restaurant,

organic products and several gluten-

holidays here, where the only goal is

a perfect place to try the best

free, vegetarian and vegan options.

to rest and recharge your batteries.

fresh fish as well as vegetarian

In the evening, the open kitchen

options; and, above all, the chance

prepares delicious Mediterranean and

offers yoga and Pilates classes,

to enjoy one of the world’s best

Canarian cuisine, as well as specialities

holistic treatments and completely

spots for wind sports, with the

from other regions.

personalised detox programmes.

The rooms are spacious and

In addition to surfing, the hotel

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OUR PARTNERS The Meliá group signs an agreement with SAP to manage their business on its private cloud

AP is a long-standing

strategic partner of Meliá Hotels International. As part of the company’s strategic plan, Meliá is

The Meliá group and Beso Beach are joining forces to make the new ME Sitges Terramar Beach Club one of the best spots in the Mediterranean

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156

advancements to better understand its customers and improve their experience; add value to its brands and hotels; digitalise its processes; and improve business intelligence. With the migration of all its SAPmanaged services to the cloud, Meliá is one step closer to reaching its

he famous Beso Beach

The opening of the new ME Sitges

objectives, becoming the first large

Formentera beach club and

Terramar Beach Club was the first step

European company to carry out this

restaurant—which together with

in Beso Beach’s expansion around

change.

Bilbao Berría forms the group of top

the world; it recently opened a bar in

restaurants in Formentera, Bilbao and

Tulum, Mexico as well.

Barcelona known as Grupo B—has

The culinary selection offered by Beso Beach (at the ME Sitges Terramar) is refreshing and enticing.

working with new technological

Managed by the group since its

As a leader in business software applications, SAP helps companies of all sizes and sectors to improve their

teamed up with the Meliá group,

inception, the hotel’s restaurant

performance. From administrative

making the new ME Sitges Terramar

combines the culinary tradition

functions to boardroom activities,

Beach Club in Sitges (Barcelona) a

of the Basque Country with the

from the warehouse to the shop

front-runner in the region.

brand’s trademark luxury lifestyle.

and from desktop computers to

Its Mediterranean fusion cuisine has

mobile devices, SAP empowers

reclaimed the glamour of the hotel,

touches of Basque flavours

professionals and organisations to

with its privileged location right on the

that stand out amidst the white

work together more efficiently, and

Paseo Marítimo, turning it into the local

sands and crystal clear waters of the

helps them activate their business

leader in innovation and luxury.

Sitges beach.

visions in order to surpass the

This new establishment has

Beso Beach was not a random choice.

As explained by Rafael Viar, of

competition. SAP’s programmes and

The company operates one of the most

Group B: ‘It’s been a year of strong

services enable more than 300,000

glamorous spots in Formentera, and

growth for our group, after opening

customers to reach profitability, stay

has made it into a meeting place for top

Beso Tulum in December. We’re

up to date with constant change and

athletes, models, businesspeople and

very pleased to begin 2018 with the

grow in a sustainable way.

Hollywood stars.

opening of this great project in Sitges’.

For more information, visit: sap.com.

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AWARDS

The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards recognise the best Meliá hotels

158

sector. Thousands of travellers from

The company’s award-winning

all over the world have recognised

hotels include the Gran Meliá Palacio

the excellence of the group’s brands

de los Duques (Madrid) and the Gran

and products, with some of its hotels

Meliá Palacio de Isora (Tenerife),

gaining the highest distinction: the

both part of the ‘Luxury’ category

Meliá Zanzibar (which received three

a total of 26 TripAdvisor Travellers

in Spain, cementing the Gran Meliá

Traveller’s Choice awards), the Meliá

Choice’ awards for 15 of the group’s

brand’s position as a clear leader in the

Braco Village (Jamaica), the Meliá Cayo

establishments. The winners are

Spanish luxury hospitality market. The

Coco (Cuba), the Paradisus Río de Oro

selected each year according to

company also received international

(Cuba), the Paradisus Palma Real and

the comments left by millions of

recognition for the Gran Meliá Xian,

the Paradisus Punta Cana (both in the

TripAdvisor members, with prizes

reflecting the company’s success in

Dominican Republic), among others.

awarded to the hotels that receive

China, one of its target markets for

an outstanding score—highlighting

growth.

destinations, but those truly

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a world leader in the hospitality

to again and again.

Meliá Hotels International received

not only travellers’ preferred

Lush greenery surrounds the seaside pool at the Meliá Zanzibar.

exceptional places that guests return

Meliá Hotels International once again demonstrated its status as

The Meliá group, the most highly valued Spanish hotel brand and the third highest in Europe at the international level, according to Brand Finance Meliá is the most highly valued hotel brand in Spain according to the annual rankings of the prestigious brand consultancy Brand Finance, who have developed their own methodology for

AWARDS with their financial results, taking into account a wide range of factors including financial performance, brand reputation, emotional connection and marketing strategy, which together constitute brands’ overall value and positioning. Meliá Hotels International sits 11 positions above the next highest Spanish brand, and is among the three most highly valued European brands globally, having climbed 10 places since the 2017 report ranked it 32nd in the world. Ahead of Meliá are brands The Innside Palma Bosque hotel’s pool at night.

operated by major US hotel groups including Hilton, Marriott, Starwood and Hyatt; European chains such as Accor and Intercontinental; and Asian groups like Shangri-La.

Meliá Hotels International receives the 2018 Responsible Tourism Award at FITUR Two of the group’s most successful projects have been recognised: the

160

has become the first European

Bosque hotel received an award

destination to obtain the ‘Earth Check’

for the focus on responsibility that

sustainability certification for achieving

has characterised its reform and

environmental improvements such

repositioning project, developed

as the reduction of CO2 emissions

during the first half of 2017.

by 37.85%. It also achieved notable

The Calviá Beach project is a

progress in both revenue and the

extensive renovation of Magaluf

public-private collaboration headed

extension of the tourist season, as

that Meliá spearheaded, and the

by Meliá Hotels International

well as the creation of employment

‘responsible’ transformation of the

that led the area’s transformation

opportunities and the redistribution of

Innside Palma Bosque hotel.

through the management of more

wealth generated by tourism.

In collaboration with FITUR and

STYLE

projects. The Innside Palma

than 3,500 rooms in the Magaluf

Meliá, a leading hotel company in

the Instituto Tecnológico Hotelero

area, including the renovation

Spain and one of the most important

(ITH), the Intermundial Foundation

and rebranding of the hotels and

chains in the international hospitality

presented the Responsible Tourism

the local urban environment; the

sector, actively seeks to improve the

Award in the ‘Hospitality’ category

improvement of their category and

social impact of its activity whilst

to the project ‘Calviá Beach, the

segmentation; the introduction

minimising any negative effects,

transformation of a destination

of environmental management

fostering a system of responsible

certified in sustainability.

systems; the diversification into

hotel management based around

segments such as sports tourism

4 focal points: the environment,

awards were also presented

and MICE; and the promotion of a

employability, child welfare and

at FITUR, with the purpose of

complementary high-quality offer.

reputation. In this way, it works to

The 4th annual Re Think Hotel

recognising and promoting the

The project, which just concluded

create a common framework that

Spanish hotel industry's best

its sixth season with remarkable

each hotel can adapt according to its

sustainability and refurbishment

commercial success and recognition,

own unique requirements.

HO CHI MINH

JORGE ARRANZ.

NEXT DESTINATION

STYLE

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Today Ho Chi Minh City is the financial and commercial capital of Vietnam, but Saigon— as it was formerly known—played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War. Meliá Hotels International is landing here, just 6 kilometres from the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, and bringing three hotels to one of the city’s most important areas: surrounded by interesting businesses, near the popular Ben Than market and a varied culinary offering, and just a stone’s throw from French colonial buildings like the 19th-century post office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, made with materials imported from France.