OCTOBER 2017 ISSUE 20
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OCTOBER 2017 ISSUE 20
AFRICA / INDIAN OCEAN
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AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN
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ASIA PACIFIC
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AMERICAS
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MIDDLE EAST
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EUROPE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
CONTENT
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AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN
MIDDLE EAST
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
SENIOR JOURNALIST Ellen Petty JOURNALISTS Maria Sabova Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou
CONTRIBUTOR Dominique Christou
DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou
WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis
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ASIA PACIFIC
EUROPE
DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeluxury.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES
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BITS OF BLISS
INTERVIEW
Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com
AT YOUR SERVICE
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 Email: david@simpson-media.com
EVENTS
Cover by: Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya
OCTOBER 2017
DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM THE ENCHANTING MAASAI BOMAS ASILIA'S THE HIGHLANDS NEW LODGE INVTITES GUESTS TO CONNECT WITH NATURE
ACCOMMODATION AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN
MARCH 2016
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TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN ACCOMMODATION
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo’s Upgrade Underway
F Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
our Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence is currently undergoing a complete redesign of all of its 262 keys, while remaining fully operational. Expected to be completed in 2018, the new rooms and suites have been upgraded with soft furnishings, fabrics, wallpapers, light fixtures, carpets and floor-to-ceiling curtains while corridors have been enhanced with marble flooring outside the elevator landings. Commenting on the renovation, Mahmoud ElKeiy, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence, enthused, “[...] We are proud to be able to give all our rooms and suites the largest of their kind in the city of Cairo, a newly revamped luxury look and feel.”
Emaar’s Hospitality Brand Expands to the Maldives The Maldives
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maar Hospitality Group is growing the international portfolio of its premium hospitality brand Address Hotels + Resorts, with the latest contract for management of Address Madivaru Maldives Resort + Spa, set to open in 2020. Located on an exclusive private island on Ari Atoll, the lavish resort will comprise 80 beach and over- water villas promising to maximise oceanfront vacations in ultra-luxury settings. Discerning guests will be able to enjoy separate spa and water sports islands, floating restaurants and lounges an over-water fitness facilities, among other highlights. Olivier Harnisch, CEO, Emaar Hospitality Group, said, “One of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, the Maldives is an ideal fit to our expansion plans to take our proven competencies in hospitality to newer geographies […].”
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TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN BITS OF BLISS
Four Seasons Marrakech Introduces Italian Cuisine
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our Seasons Resort Marrakech invites gourmands and food connoisseurs to enjoy lively Italian nights as a new restaurant Quattro opens its doors at its premises. The venue’s interior represents the cultural blend between Southern Italy and Morocco, where guests can enjoy in a sensuous intimate dining, reflecting a romantic Italian feel and vibrant Moroccan ambiance. Offering authentic food from the four most southern regions of Italy, the menu boasts carefully selected creations highlighting the flavours of Sicily, Puglia, Calabria and Campania, fused with Arabic elements. Blaise Montandon, general manager, Four Seasons Resort Marrakech, enthused, “With this new restaurant, we pay tribute to the fantastic culinary heritage of Southern Italy […] offering food that has not been served in Marrakech before […].”
Quattro
Voyages to Antiquity Finalised 2018 Summer Programme
MV Aegean Odyssey
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oyages to Antiquity has unveiled its final line-up of onboard speakers and shore excursions for its 2018 cruise programme, which has already achieved a 10 percent year-on-year increase in advance bookings. The cruise operator’s carefully curated programme of celebrated speakers include an average of two experts per voyage. Noted historians, glaciologists, ornithologists and wine connoisseurs will complement the destinations visited by providing the guests with insights through daily lectures around cultural, historical and natural topics. The freshly launched summer schedule features six new itineraries, including maiden visits to the Norwegian Fjords.
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OCTOBER 2017
AWAKEN YOUR INNER EXPLORER AT ANGKOR WAT IN CAMBODIA
ASIA PACIFIC
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ACCOMMODATION
ASIA PACIFIC
Four Seasons Sydney Upgraded Iconic Ballroom
Shangri-La Adds Second Sri Lankan Address
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iming to provide more hospitality offerings in Sri Lanka, ShangriLa Hotels and Resorts has unveiled plans to open Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo. Set to welcome guests in November, the new address will mark the Asian hospitality group’s second property in the country. Featuring 500 guestrooms and suites as well as 41 serviced apartments and 4,500m2 of meeting space able to accommodate over 1,500 guests, the property is ideal for both leisure and corporate travellers . Timothy Wright, general manager, Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, highlighted, “As tourist arrivals into the island have grown exponentially over the last eight years, Colombo has found its place as the gateway to all this amazing island has to offer.”
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, Grand Ballroom
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our Seasons Hotel Sydney has renovated its prestigious Grand Ballroom, set to elevate the standards of event facilities. Following other recent upgrades, the property invested in renewing the venue’s contemporary design and adding the latest advanced technology. Event organisers are now able to take advantage of large cinema-style screen, four times larger than a traditional projector screen, supporting high resolution videos and imagery with spectacular matching sound. Complementing the technology, the ballroom’s foyer has been transformed with elegant interiors. “We are delighted to be adding a new chapter to the story of our iconic Grand Ballroom – a grand and timeless space that has played host to unforgettable celebrations in Sydney for more than 30 years,” says Rudolf van Dijk, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.
Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo
Rosewood Sanya Opened in China Rosewood Sanya
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n August 21, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts celebrated the opening of its second property in mainland China, complementing Rosewood Beijing, which was launched in 2014. Overlooking the South China Sea, the 246-key Rosewood Sanya is inspired by the brand's A Sense of Place philosophy incorporating wood, tribal totems and aquatic elements, celebrating the beauty of nature and the serenity of the ocean. Part of an integrated resort set within 16ha of landscaped gardens, the address offers 3,425m2 of meeting spaces along with five restaurants and lounges serving both local and international cuisines. Guests are encouraged to participate in the resort’s A Sense of Taste programme featuring private guided tours offering rare access to indigenous and authentic culinary experiences and learn about fresh seasonal and local fruits and vegetables.
OCTOBER 2017
ACCOMMODATION
ASIA PACIFIC
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Banyan Tree Inks Deal with Vanke
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n order to consolidate the ownership of its Banyan Tree-branded hotels in China, Banyan Tree Holdings has executed and completed the definitive agreements with Vanke, to create Banyan Tree Assets China (BTAC), a joint venture incorporated in Singapore. BTAC now holds a 40 percent stake in each of Banyan Tree Holdings’ operating companies in China. Among other investments, the Chinese real estate developer will initially inject a sum of approximately SGD72 million (USD52.8 million) into BTAC, in return for newly issued shares amounting to a 50 percent stake in BTAC. Banyan Tree will also allot and issue new shares equivalent to approximately 4.99 percent equity stake in the company to Vanke for an amount of approximately SGD24 million (USD17.6 million).
Banyan Tree Lijiang
Sofitel to Redefine Luxury in Kuala Lumpur
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Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara
OCTOBER 2017
ccorHotels has launched the first Sofitel-branded property in Malaysia, with the opening of Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara, set to raise the bar of luxury in the capital. The 312-key address is part of an integrated development in the affluent Damansara Heights suburb. It reflects the glamour of the area with artistic interior paying homage to Malaysian and French heritage. Guests staying in suites are able to enjoy access to the Club Millésime executive lounge, while all visitors can take an advantage of five restaurants and bars, six meeting rooms alongside wellness and leisure facilities, such as an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa, which is said to offer the country’s first Moroccan hamam bath.
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BITS OF BLISS
Dusit to Manage Two Chinese Addresses
T Rendering of Dusit Devarana Resort, Huizhou Shuangyue Bay
hai hotel developer Dusit International has signed a management agreement with Huizhou Yuetai Investment Company to operate two new Chinese properties in Huizhou, slated to open in 2020. Dusit Devarana Resort, Huizhou Shuangyue Bay will comprise 84 guestrooms and 64 villas, alongside dining and entertainment outlets, meeting and event spaces and comprehensive recreational facilities, such as a gym, an outdoor swimming pool and a signature spa offering Thai-inspired treatments. Meanwhile, overlooking the South China Sea in a 29-storey tower, dusitD2 Serviced Residence, Huizhou Shuangyue Bay will serve millennial-minded travellers with creative design and hightechnology applications. Along with 550 apartments, the address will feature an allday-dining restaurant and a lobby lounge.
Japan Airlines Introduced Innovative Menu
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apan Airlines and culinary contest RED U-35 have collaborated to launch new onboard menu, enabling economy class passengers to experience innovative dishes designed by young talented chefs. Six competition finalists created inspiring in-flight menus, set to please the tastes of domestic and international passengers alike. Fusing the elements of Japanese, French and Chinese cuisines, the dishes will be altered every three months according to new seasons. Through the cooperation, the partners aim to capitalise on providing the opportunities to aspiring chefs and deliver a refreshing dining experience during every journey.
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OCTOBER 2017
CHILE ESCAPE LUXURY TRAVEL OFFERSΗHORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCE AT LAS TORRES NATIONAL PARK IN PATAGONIA
AMERICAS
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Mandarin Oriental to Manage First Caribbean Resort
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
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andarin Oriental Hotel Group is set to rebrand and manage a luxury property currently operating on Canouan Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which will mark the hotelier’s debut in the Caribbean. Nestled on the white sands of a 13m² island, the expansive yet intimate Mandarin Oriental, Canouan will comprise 26 suites and 12 villas with ocean views. From November 01, guests will be able to immerse in outdoors leisure pursuits, while enjoying the address’ facilities including a fine dining restaurant, an outdoor infinity pool, a spa and health club, with two overwater treatment cabanas accessible by boat. Complementing the property, the group will add new residences to the location in 2020.
BENCHMARK Reveals US Dining Trends
Four Seasons Hotel Austin Unveils Revamp
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ENCHMARK a Global Hospitality Company (BENCHMARK) has unveiled the latest trends spotted across the US regarding dining. Focussing on sustainability, disposable income and a good bit of nostalgia for the foods they have missed growing up, the trends are driven by informed and openminded millennials. Amongst the highlights is the extensive use of eggs and onions which now appear in jams and desserts, sustainable fishing as well as plant-based diets. Commenting on the findings, Todd Parmelee, vice president, food & beverage, BENCHMARK, revealed, “Our chefs are forging new paths and listening to our guests and suppliers in creating a holistic and sustainable approach to the dining experience we offer.”
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Four Seasons Hotel Austin
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eaching the end of a two-year multi-phase renovation, Four Seasons Hotel Austin announced that the redesign of its 291 guestrooms and suites has been completed. The enhancements, which also include its signature spa and fitness centre porte cochere entry and meeting spaces, aim to raise the bar of luxury hospitality in Texas through inviting décor, while also maximising space within the property. Commenting ahead of the upgrade, Rob Hagelberg, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Austin, enthused, “I am confident the completion of these enhancements, combined with the incredible service provided by our 400-plus employees – without question our greatest asset and the key to our success – will ensure Four Seasons remains Austin’s leader in luxury hospitality.”
OCTOBER 2017
ACCOMMODATION
AMERICAS
W Bellevue to Redefine Lakeside Luxury
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
Viceroy Unveiled Chicago Property
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n September 01, Viceroy Hotel Group and Convexity Properties unveiled Viceroy Chicago, a highly anticipated 180-key property in the city’s vibrant Gold Coast neighbourhood. With community partnerships being a cornerstone of the hotel experience, the address offers guests wellness and fashion experiences provided by locally based businesses including Chill Chicago, Core Power Yoga, and FELT, an upscale women’s clothing boutique. David Nelson, head, real estate, Convexity Properties, enthused “The unveiling of Viceroy Chicago, with its unique programming, design and culinary experiences, is an exciting moment for Convexity Properties, Viceroy Hotel Group, Boka Restaurant Group and this amazing city we call home.”
W Bellevue
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Hotels Worldwide has announced opening of W Bellevue, said to mark a new era of design for the hotelier in North America with its cabin-like architecture, reimagined décor and locally-inspired dining. The Lincoln Square property features 220 guestrooms and 25 suites, inviting locals and travellers alike to experience modern yet familiar settings inspired by the region’s Lake Washington. The property boasts the brand’s signature facilities, such as the Living Room clubhouse, an open-air socialising space named The Porch, and The Library, among other highlights. “As a city known for its lake houses, W Bellevue embraces this tradition while reinterpreting the design in a fresh and innovative way,” said Matt Van Der Peet, general manager, W Bellevue.
Viceroy Chicago
The Registry Collection Welcomed Ali’i Kai Resort
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aid to be one of the world’s largest luxury exchange programmes, The Registry Collection has added Ali’i Kai Resort to its network. Featuring 18 recently renovated two-bedroom condominiums, the Hawaiian resort is situated on the north shore of Kauai, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Ronald Wright, president, Ali’i Kai Home Owners Association, revealed, “Having our property included in The Registry Collection programme’s exclusive exchange network is a proud moment for all of us. A stay at our property is truly exceptional, and we are looking forward to welcoming members of The Registry Collection to experience it first-hand as well as inviting our owners to experience the benefits of being part of this exchange programme.”
OCTOBER 2017
Kauai
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TRANSPORTATION
AMERICAS
HondaJet Enjoys Growing Demand
HondaJet
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onda Aircraft Company is celebrating the success of HondaJet, which was confirmed as the most frequently delivered jet in its category in the first half of this year, as reported by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. From January to June, the company delivered 24 aircraft to its customers across the globe. Building on this momentum, the airplanes are being manufactured at a rate of about four jets per month to meet the demand for what is said to be the world’s most advanced light aircraft. “Our customers are extremely pleased with the performance, comfort and superior fit and finish of the HondaJet,” said Michimasa Fujino, CEO, Honda Aircraft Company.
Cunard Unveiled Journeys for 2019
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unard Lines has unveiled its April – December 2019 programme, which includes the cruise line’s first ever Northern Lights voyage, a 14-night Transatlantic Crossing calling in Iceland and Canada, a Panama Canal transit, and the line’s first visit to Alaska in over 20 years. Commenting on the new itineraries, Alex White, vice president, sales, Cunard Lines, revealed, “[[…]] With voyages visiting places around the world, as well as a programme of enhanced cruises to Iceland and Norway, and around the British Isles, Cunard Lines’ guests will be spoilt for choice. There is also an array of inspiring destinations to choose from, with a good selection of evenings in port for fully enriching visits ashore […].”
Private Jets Marks 30th Anniversay
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he Oklahoma family owned air charter company Private Jets celebrated 30 years since its foundation in 1987. Initially known as Oklahoma Executive Jet Charter before its rebrand in 2002, the company now boasts nearly 20 aircraft in its fleet, operating from its home-base at Wiley Post Airport, alongside six other hubs spread over Oklahoma, Texas and Florida. Happy Wells, owner, Private Jets, attributed the business success to the ability and willingness to seize opportunities when they presented themselves, such as the growth of fleet and consequent expansion of the bases.
SeaDream Yacht Club to Launch Cuba Voyages
S Queen Elizabeth
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eaDream Yacht Club has announced immersive sailings around Cuba for the spring 2019 season, featuring an enriching itinerary on board the 112-guest mega-yacht SeaDream II. Departing directly from Havana or Cienfuegos and circumnavigating the island, the series of seven-day voyages will include stops in some of the island’s most storied and least-travelled ports. The inclusive fare features ocean view accommodation, gourmet meals, gratuities and dining, among other offerings. “Cuba is changing now in noticeable ways, and for many, there is a desire to see it before it loses its identity,” said Adrienne D’Annunzio, manager, trade marketing, SeaDream Yacht Club.
OCTOBER 2017
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE LUXURY AT BURJ AL ARAB'S ROYAL SUITE
MIDDLE EAST
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
MIDDLE EAST
ACCOMMODATION
Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait Welcomes Guests
Emaar to Enhance Egyptian Waterfront Living
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our Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya has officially opened its doors in Kuwait City. As well as featuring 217 rooms and 67 suites, the address boasts a unique 13m spiral staircase in the lobby, hailed as a symbol of the hotel. With 2,912m2 of events spaces, a two-storey spa offering innovative treatments as well as a state-of-theart fitness centre and two swimming pools, the property is well suited for both business and leisure tourists. Moreover, the hotel boasts four dining venues, including an Italian restaurant, an international eatery, a coffee bar, and poolside outlet.
s one of 14 upcoming Address Hotels + Resorts-branded projects, Address Marassi Beach Resort is set to redefine hospitality in Egypt. Expected to impress with its waterfront location overlooking Sidi Abdel Rahman Bay, the 140-key property will form an integral part of Emaar Misr’s Marassi. Olivier Harnisch, CEO, Emaar Hospitality Group, said, “Bringing the brand values of gracious hospitality, exceptional service and unique value for guests, Address Marassi Beach Resort will further energise tourism to Marassi and contribute to the national economy supporting the development vision of the government.”
Emirates Palace Scored Summer Success
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uring the months of June and July, Emirates Palace achieved an increase of 20 percent in its occupancy rates. Noting that the success builds upon the high occupancy levels observed in summer 2016, Holger Schroth, general manager, Emirates Palace, explained, “Several aspects have helped us reach this peak, particularly our well-formed summer packages, the enforced sales activity we had in the GCC region mainly in Saudi and Bahrain, as well as our kids’ programme.” Looking ahead, the property aims to maintain this momentum by hosting several educational conferences in October, followed by annual security conferences.
Emirates Palace
Small Luxury Hotels Acquired First Dubai Partner
S Rendering of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya
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mall Luxury Hotels of the World has unveiled Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai on Pearl Jumeirah as the first address in the UAE to join its portfolio. The stylish resort boasts 132 signature white rooms with customisable features, alongside 15 private villas. Other facilities include five restaurants and a lounge, four pools, a swim-up bar and the brand’s signature wellness outlets, among others. Daniel Luddington, vice president, development, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, enthused, “Dubai is one of the most requested destinations on SLH.com and we have been searching for the right hotel here for a number of years. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is a notable addition to the SLH family […].”
OCTOBER 2017
BITS OF BLISS
MIDDLE EAST
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
HIA Welcomes Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren at Hamad International Airport
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iming to expand its retail portfolio, Qatar Duty Free has launched a Ralph Lauren outlet at Hamad International Airport (HIA). The opening is part of a string of recent store launches at the hub, including the third branch of the Gold shop. Featuring a wide selection of its most sought-after items, including men’s suiting collection, a sportswear collection, as well as accessories and luggage, the new store will enhance passenger’s experience at the award winning airport. The opening coincides with Ralph Lauren’s anniversary this year, celebrating 50 years of iconic fashion creations.
Qatar Airways Rolls Out New Premium Dining
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aking bespoke dining to new heights, Qatar Airways now serves the highest-grade locally-smoked Norwegian salmon for premium class passengers. The dishes are sourced from Doha-based company Ocean Fish, one of the region’s premier seafood producers, which prepare the fish using traditional Scandinavian methods. Commenting on the new offering, Aaron Claxton, senior vice president, catering services, Qatar Airways, highlighted, “Working in partnership with Ocean Fish, we are able to support local businesses and initiatives while at the same time offering the very best quality produce to meet the exacting standards of Qatar Airways and its passengers.”
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Penhaligon’s Luxury Boutique Added at Doha Airport
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atar Duty Free has expanded its portfolio of exclusive retail venues at Hamad International Airport with the opening of Penhaligon’s boutique, complementing the hub’s selection of premium perfume products. The London brand’s first ever store in Qatar feautres exquisite perfume collections, along with the company’s signature profiling service, guiding customers through the world of finest perfumery to find a fragrance that best suits individual needs. Luis Gasset, senior vice president, Qatar Duty Free, said, “The boutique not only celebrates the diverse and unique heritage of Britain, but also shows our continuous efforts in ensuring that passengers are given a luxurious shopping experience whenever they visit Qatar Duty Free.”
Penhaligon’s
SensAsia Spa to Pamper in New Location
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ontinuing the expansion of its wellness havens, the UAE’s independent spa chain SensAsia has launched a brand new SensAsia Urban Spa at Dubai’s Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah. The winner of Best UAE Luxury Spa & Wellness Centre presents its collection of treatments boasting unique elements of Balinese grace, Japanese elegance and Thai tradition, while the homegrown business also celebrates 13 years of success. The pampering menu offers complete sensory journey with energising Thai yoga stretch massage, skin-renewing scrubs and cutting edge, customised facials, alongside body sculpting treatments including pre- and post-natal therapies. “SensAsia is intentionally elevated away from the hustle and bustle, where we have created a sanctuary for the senses,” said Salina Handa, managing director, SensAsia.
Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah
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OCTOBER 2017
ADMIRE OVER THREE MILLION ARTWORKS ON A PRIVATE TOUR OF HERMITAGE MUSEUM DURING A SAINT PETERSBURG CITY BREAK WITH ABERCROMBIE & KENT
EUROPE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
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ACCOMMODATION
Katara Prepares to Unveil Bürgenstock Resort
K Bürgenstock Resort, Lake Lucerne
atara Hospitality has announced that its USD1 billion project Bürgenstock Resort, Lake Lucerne has opened its doors, setting what is hailed as a new global hospitality benchmark for the developer. The car-free resort is part of Bürgenstock Selection and comprises four hotels with 383 rooms and suites, a health and medical centre, 12 bars and restaurants, 67 residence suites, as well as a 1ha Alpine Spa, and a wide range of leisure pursuits. Public transport links also commenced operations, including The LucerneKehrsiten-Bürgenstock shuttle boat service and the completely rebuilt vintage look Bürgenstock Railway, which takes guests into the heart of the resort.
Four Seasons London to Host Pop-Up Pampering Omorovicza Midnight Radiance Mask
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our Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane hosted a week long pop-up spa treatment programme Omorovicza Midnight Suite featuring La Perla, enabling guests to experience the Omorovicza Midnight Menu, on September 07 – 14. Celebrating the launch of the beauty brand’s Midnight Radiance Mask, the luxurious promotion also showcased a range of La Perla’s nightwear collection. During the occasion, guests had the opportunity to be pampered and rejuvenated with a three-step therapy featuring a relaxing back massage, customised facial treatment and a choice of two extra enhancers to further unwind and restore the body and mind. Each treatment was complemented with the application of the new mask, left overnight on the skin.
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Four Seasons to Enter Greece
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our Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Astir Palace Vouliagmeni have recently announced plans to bring the first Four Seasons-branded hotel to Greece. Following extensive upgrades to the existing premises, the new address will debut as Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens in 2018. Featuring approximately 300 rooms, suites and luxury bungalows, infinity pools and a unique beachfront promenade, the address’ concept draws heavily on inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding environment and local culture. “[…] We look forward to working with Astir Palace to introduce Four Seasons to Greece, creating a world-class hospitality experience characterised by product of the highest calibre and customised Four Seasons service,” enthused, J. Allen Smith, CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
Astir Palace Vouliagmeni
Six Senses Crans-Montana to Debut in 2020
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ix Senses has unveiled plans to open a 47-key hotel in Valais in 2020, accompanied by 17 residential units available for purchase, 13 of which will be available to international citizens. Located just two hours from Geneva, the Swiss address will offer a wide selection of outdoor activities including ski-in and ski-out access, plus a rich wellness offering. Consistent with Six Senses’ sustainability focus, local recycled materials will be selected by the architect and design teams, while repurposed materials will be used in the manufacture of finishes including flooring, millwork and fabrics. Moreover, energy and water conservation will play a key role in the project’s design.
Rendering of Six Senses Crans-Montana
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EUROPE
BITS OF BLISS
British Airways Launches Restaurant Dining Concept
F Club World, British Airways
ollowing a GBP400 million (USD476 million) investment to enhance its long-haul business cabin service Club World, British Airways has introduced a new restaurant-style dining experience on flights between Heathrow Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Passengers are now able to select freshly prepared starters, mains and desserts, complemented by a rich wine and Champagne menu, served by the crew onto new table settings. The carrier’s second phase of upgrades, focussed on improving travellers’ sleep, will begin in the autumn. Colin Talbot, head, catering, British Airways, commented, “We have extensively tested the new menu on numerous flights, refining elements after every trial, so we believe the final product our customers will receive […] will prove incredibly popular.”
Poland and Belarus Engage in Joint Tourism Projects
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oland and Belarus have entered into an agreement to promote Augustow Canal under a single common brand, and will continue to cooperate on cross-border tourism projects. As part of the programme launched between Poland, Belarus and Ukraine for the 2014-2020 period, over 120 common initiatives in cultural, educational, sport, tourism and medical sectors have been proposed. During a recent meeting in Belarus’ Grodno Oblast, Viktor Liskovich, deputy chairman, Grodno Oblast executive committee, elaborated, “Grodno Oblast maintain ties with the Polish regions not only in economy but also in culture and tourism where we have common interests and goals. The development of the Augustow Canal under the single brand will increase the flow of tourists on both sides of the border.”
Belarus
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TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW WITH
Peter Pottinga GENERAL MANAGER, HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON
With Hong Kong constantly raising the bar of luxury, Peter Pottinga, general manager, Harbour Grand Kowloon, explains what factors shape high-end travel and how the property innovates to attract affluent guests.
Travel Trade Luxury: What do you believe makes Hong Kong an attractive luxury destination and what is the profile of a modern opulent traveller? Peter Pottinga: Hong Kong has always served as a top destination for a variety of sectors within tourism, especially in corporate travel as the gateway into China as well as serving a very robust luxury sector to name a few. Global consumers are becoming more affluent, stimulating an increasing trend of disposable income invested into experiences versus material goods. The desire for life experiences is leading to an increase in demand for luxury travel, the sector is growing rapidly as consumers expect more rewarding and luxurious travel journeys. Middle-class travellers are becoming more mature and sophisticated thus their tastes have grown to be more discerning. Travel Trade Luxury: How does Harbour Grand Kowloon respond to the demands of such travellers? Peter Pottinga: Given that we are situated at the shore side of Victoria Harbour with unobstructed view and beautiful surroundings, combined with our large-sized rooms, variety of suites and connecting
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rooms, our hotel is highly attractive for Middle Eastern luxury travellers – both individuals and families. Our luxury guests travel as families with three generations altogether [...]. Family travel is on the rise, we welcome and value our little guests as much as their parents, our Very Important Kids (VIK) Programme is a privileged programme specially designed for children under 12. Featuring personalised check-in procedure in a designated counter, a specially designed passport available for VIKs [...], the programme also incorporates seasonal and festive welcome amenities and minigames in checkpoints within the hotel. We would like to create wonderful memories not only for adult guests but also our VIK travellers. Most discerning travellers nowadays are cash-rich, time-poor, whose plans often change at the last minute while they have the budget and seniority to extend their trip for some luxury travels. In view of this, guests can join our HP Club membership programme newly launched in 2016 with exclusive member privileges [...]. Travel Trade Luxury: Do you custom-make services for your guests’ special requests? What would you highlight among the hotel’s offerings?
Peter Pottinga: We do custom-make services for special requests, such as customised dining options will be offered to guests with different dietary preferences [...]. We are the only hotel in Hong Kong equipped with a private pier, it allows our guests to embark on their journey to the island side, and such close proximity enables them to explore Hong Kong through the dramas of the water and the building and the skyline; while it also offers a creative option for offsite events with chartered boats which best-fit the guests who require privacy and exclusivity [...]. Travel Trade Luxury: What do your guests seek to do when visiting Hong Kong? Peter Pottinga: We noticed that a lot of them expect a connection with local customs and nature. People want a break from hustle and bustle of daily life, to experience journeys other than the usual tourist destinations. Hunghom is a vibrant district with rich history and strong bonding to the city [...]. The district landmark, boat-shaped shopping centre in the Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa was erected right on the old dry dock, reminding people of the development of Hunghom and Hong Kong, [...].
OCTOBER 2017
AT YOUR SERVICE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
Four Seasons Silicon Valley Innovates Wine Service
New Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto
Bringing the in-room wine experience to new levels, Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto has partnered with Plum, becoming what is said to be the first hotel to feature the revolutionary wine system. The latest advancement in wine serving technology automatically preserves, chills and serves wine by the glass, allowing guests to instantly enjoy the drink within the comfort and convenience of their room. The user-friendly stylish units have been installed in selected suites, with plans to extend the facility into more rooms starting in October.
New Rolls-Royce Phantom Made North American Debut The all-new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Phantom made its North American debut at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, following the global unveiling of the vehicle at Bonhams in London. Said to be the most technologically advanced car of its kind, the vehicle features satellite aided transmission, rear-wheel steering, and a myriad of behind the scenes technology to provide an effortless experience. Additionally, the new Phantom introduces The Gallery, an unprecedented new concept in luxury, reinterpreting the motor car’s dashboard for the first time in 100 years.
Los Angeles Airport Showcases Local Art
Quiñones
New Mexico Chef Wows at National Cooking Competition During the 14th annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off, a national competition taking place at New Orleans Morial Convention Center, Marc Quiñones an Albuquerque chef managed to secure the third place for its spiced duck fat fried oysters. Following the one-hour cooking time, the chef delivered a heartfelt presentation of his dish explaining the importance of both the Chimayo red chile and Hatch green chile, both of which were featured in his dish, to New Mexico’s culinary heritage. Quiñones, who is the executive chef at Hotel Andaluz’s MÁS Tapas Restaurant, competed against 13 chefs from Alaska.
OCTOBER 2017
Los Angeles International Airport
Los Angeles World Airports has partnered with Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), to launch two new art exhibitions at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) by artists David Jang and Jody Zellen. Exploring aspects of everyday life hiding in plain sight the exhibitions will be on display from January, 2018 in the hub’s Terminal 3. Danielle Brazell, general manager, DCA, revealed, “The works by Jang and Zellen reconstruct our relationship with everyday objects to give people an opportunity to think about art in unexpected ways. Greeting travellers with these stunning new exhibitions elevates the welcoming experience for all who are visiting or returning to Los Angeles.”
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TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
EVENTS
MILT Congress Unveiled Indian Travel Trends
T
he recently concluded 5th Annual MICE India & Luxury Travel (MILT) Congress in Mumbai and New Delhi confirmed that Indian buyers’ interest in experiential travel for MICE and luxury segments is growing. In its fifth year of facilitating business connections among Indian and international industry players, this year’s event saw over 2,100 high-level meetings over four days. The impact of India’s demonetisation policy alongside the latest developments of travel technology dominated the discussions. Ackash Jain, director, QnA Global, commented, “What made this year’s edition of the MILT Congress a huge success was the unrivalled platform of prearranged one-to-one meetings along with the conference sessions.”
MILT Congress 2016
Finnish Opera to Exclusively Feature Ice
I EVENTS
n January 2019, Finnish National Opera will host the world premiere of a show based on the award-winning novel Ice. Ulla-Lena Lundberg’s bestselling literary work, which was awarded with the Finlandia prize in 2012, has been adapted into a stage version by composer Jaakko Kuusisto with the libretto in Finnish written by Juhani Koivisto. Published in Swedish and Finnish, the book has sold nearly 150,000 copies to date. Commenting on the story, Kuusisto revealed, “What matters most to me is that the music creates an overriding ambience, describing the beautiful yet merciless sea and ice, which have a tremendous power over us and make us feel so small.”
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THE LUXURY TRAVEL FAIR London, UK November 02 – 05
REISE SALON Vienna, Austria November 18 – 19
CPHI-P-MEC-INDIA Mumbai, India November 27 – 30
OCTOBER 2017