Homegrown sandwich brand MoonMoon enters NCR

Newly launched MoonMoon is currently a delivery-only brand with 14 outlets spread across the NCR with plans to spread its presence aggressively.

Inspired by thoughts of interstellar space and extraterrestrial life, homegrown brand MoonMoon has come up with a completely new range of products designed to make old-school sandwiches, subs, tacos, and rolls.

MoonMoon’s flagship range of products are called Crustwiches – think saucy, cheesy, oven-baked sandwiches folded over into a pillowy half-moon of crusty garlic bread, filled with premium meats and veggies. Since launching in January of this year, MoonMoon has won over countless converts who have been tired of eating the same tired and boring sandwich flavors between the same tired and boring slabs of dry, tasteless bread.

MoonMoon’s menu is as diverse as the universe, and the flavor profiles available span the globe from full-on Desi to slamming American, from subtle Italian to spicy southeast Asian.

And the scope for innovation is endless, every quarter MoonMoon will release limited-edition flavors. "With MoonMoon, we really hope to keep creating new, exciting, and unusual products for our customers to enjoy. We're super focused on space-age innovation and global, banging flavors, and we believe that India is ready for the real 2.0 version of sandwiches, subs, burgers, and hot dogs! Our products will always focus on exceptional, juicy, and extremely flavor-packed eating experiences, and we hope that our customers continue to love our food as much as we love making it,” said Ashwin Jain, Director of MoonMoon.

Though focused on culinary excellence and extreme delight, MoonMoon is a brand that is completely conscious of the importance of being truly paisa vasool, the range of Crustwiches starts at INR 235 and is a completely full 260-gram meal, roughly the equivalent of two average burgers or 1.5x the size of a 6” sub.

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New Opening | Cloud kitchen, Namaste Desi, starts operations in Delhi-NCR

This is its second outpost after Namaste Asia

After the introduction of Namaste Asia, the team from Namaste has launched its second cloud kitchen. Namaste Desi will operate in the Delhi NCR region and will specialize in North Indian cuisine.

Anubhav Nayar, Co-Owner and Chef at Namaste Asia and Namaste Desi said, “We are delighted to launch our second cloud kitchen, which will offer a wider selection of food offerings to customers in the capital. It is our aim to serve them memorable meals with new flavors and dishes, which will raise the bar of in-home dining.”

With a strong belief in the farm-to-table ideology, Namaste Desi will attempt to use fresh, seasonal, and sustainable produce from across India. It will also adopt a zero-waste strategy in the kitchen to reduce costs. This will help the company to keep the food portion size large and prices pocket-friendly.

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DESIGN | New Look Naladhu Private Island Maldives to Relaunch in November

Naladhu Private Island, the exclusive luxury island resort in the Maldives, has closed for six months for a complete renovation and is due to relaunch in November with an impressive new look and feel. The resort will undergo a total redesign with all the accommodation and public areas including the restaurant, bar, wine cellar, spa room and gym receiving a complete new look.

Naladhu Private Island Maldives - Ocean House with Pool and Private Cabana - Bathroom

• Located in the South Malé Atoll, Naladhu is just 30 minutes by luxury speedboat from Malé’s international airport

• Naladhu is home to just 20 keys, offering the ultimate in privacy and seclusion

• New York based designer Yuji Yamazaki is redesigning the resort, which will reopen with a modern colonial look

• The resort’s top suite, the Two Bedroom Pool Residence, will have its own 20 meter private beach

• Butler service is offered Naladhu-style by a Kuwaanu, meaning ‘storyteller/guide’ in Dhiveli, the Maldivian language

• Each Ocean House will have its own private beach cabana, so guests also have the option to relax on their super king-sized day bed on the beach and enjoy drinks and snacks delivered by their Kuwaanu

• Naladhu will be expanding its no-menu dine anywhere concept, enabling guests to choose their favorite dishes and dining spots round the clock

• The resort will be renewing its focus on wellness with a new dedicated spa treatment area including a double treatment room and bathing and changing area, plus a resident Naturopath and Nutritional Therapist

New Opening | Meliá Hotels International to Open a Remarkable Urban Hotel in Chiang Mai

The hotel’s 260 rooms and suites will include the Premium Room category

Meliá Chiang Mai is slated to open its doors for business in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Meliá Chiang Mai, a 260-key urban hotel that towers over the River Ping and bustling Night Bazaar in the heart of Chiang Mai city in Thailand’s mountainous north, is slated to open its doors for business in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Owned by Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group Asset World Corporation (AWC) and launched by Meliá Hotels International, the five-star hotel is part of the Meliá brand’s roll-out plan in key destinations across Thailand. Meliá Koh Samui debuted in January 2020 with a nautical theme underscored by boat suites made from refurbished merchant vessels. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the first property of its brand in Thailand, housing 176 guestrooms and located close to the Suvarnabhumi Airport, is due to open in 2022.

Meliá Chiang Mai will be situated six kilometers from the Chiang Mai International Airport on the vibrant Charoen Prathet Road, located near a broad spectrum of tourist attractions, markets, and Buddhist temples. 

With a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture with a contemporary flair, the hotel will comprise a striking 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building.

Meliá’s signature YHI Spa with seven treatment rooms will be among the urban hotel’s host of facilities for business and leisure travelers alike.

Two restaurants, two bars, two lounges including an executive lounge on the 21st floor with a panoramic view of Chiang Mai, Meliá’s signature YHI Spa with seven treatment rooms, a fully equipped fitness center, swimming pool, ballroom and four other meeting spaces will be among the hotel’s host of facilities for business and leisure travelers alike. 

Of the property's room portfolio, 38 rooms and six suites will belong to ‘The Level’, an upgraded level of service and benefits that affords exclusive access to The Level executive lounge, an intimate area for indulging an upgraded breakfast and afternoon delicacies that is also suited for casual business meetings.  The epitome of elegance, ‘The Level Presidential Suite’ will command 113 sqm of the tower’s top floor with unrivalled city vistas. 

Meliá Chiang Mai’s jewel in the crown will be a 360-degree rooftop bar – the highest in the city – on the 22nd floor. Featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge, the bar will offer spectacular views of the River Ping to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s poolside bar is aptly named Poolside.

Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish origins, the hotel will pay homage to Spain's famed gastronomy and quickly place itself on the city’s culinary map with two exquisite dining options. Perched on the 21st floor, the hotel’s signature restaurant will specialize in contemporary Northern Thai dishes with Mediterranean influences, with chefs preparing each dish à la minute from an open kitchen. The all-day-dining restaurant Mosaic will offer authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a vibrant marketplace setting. 

An idyllic venue for events and weddings, the property’s extensive conference facilities include a 358-sqm ballroom and three function rooms on the tower’s second floor above the lobby and a 175-sqm multi-purpose function room on the podium building's top floor. 

The ballroom’s 173-sqm pre-function area is connected to an outdoor swimming pool and poolside bar, aptly named Poolside. The Power Lounge, one of the three function rooms that also afford access to the pool deck, will feature a pool table and coffee area suited to down time between meetings. Adjacent to a secret garden, the seventh-floor multi-function room opens to a 223-sqm outdoor terrace that also lends itself to events. 

“With its exceptional location in the heart of Chiang Mai and an unparalleled array of facilities, Meliá Chiang Mai is a landmark project of our strategic roll-out of the Meliá brand in Thailand, in line with AWC’s growth-led strategy,” said Mrs Khun Wallapa Traisorat, Meliá Chiang Mai’s owner and AWC’s CEO and President. “Partnering with Meliá has allowed us to set a new benchmark for Thai hospitality and together, we aim to build a better future for Thailand’s tourism landscape and economy.”

“Following the hugely successful opening of Meliá Koh Samui, ranked TripAdvisor’s number one hotel in Koh Samui, Meliá Chiang Mai will be another flagship property for Meliá Hotels International in Thailand,” said Mr Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia of Meliá Hotels International. “As we continue to strengthen our growth strategy with our key partners, AWC understands and shares our strong service and hospitality philosophy -- a fundamental factor in ensuring the quality, reputation, and sustainability we strive for.”

“The global pandemic could not dampen our determination to unveil an extraordinary hotel that promises to exude the mystic splendor of Northern Thailand with Meliá’s warm Spanish hospitality, distinctive passion for service and focus on the customer’s wellbeing ever-present,” added Meliá Chiang Mai’s General Manager, Mr Edward Snoeks. 

New Opening | Niraamaya Wellness Retreats expands footprint; partners with Samroha Resort Athirappilly

We look forward to showcasing the nature and aspect of the land by bringing our signature hospitality and experiences to our 4th destination in Kerala, says Manu Rishi Guptha.

Niraamaya Wellness Retreats has joined hands with Samroha Resort Athirappilly to offer wellness experiences with a difference. Manu Rishi Guptha, CEO of Niraamaya Retreats elaborated on the expansion, saying “We are overjoyed to welcome Samroha Resorts to the Niraamaya Wellness Retreats portfolio and introduce an environmentally conscious luxury resort in the market. We look forward to showcasing the nature and aspect of the land by bringing our signature hospitality and experiences to our 4th destination in Kerala – at Athirappilly."

Niraamaya Retreats Samroha oozes classy elegance and tranquillity right from the time one sets eyes on it. Surrounded by a private land area of 1.25 acres, the resort is just 40 km away from Cochin International Airport. It is the only 5-star resort in Athirappilly offering a mix of Deluxe rooms, Luxury Cottages, and Villas with a Private Pool overlooking the majestic Athirappilly waterfalls in Kerala, India. Wake up to the warm sunbeams streaming into your room and wander along winding paths through delightful gardens in the central courtyard between the cottages, the meditation spaces, and the banquet lawn overlooking the Chalakudy riverbank. The infinity swimming pool is perched on the cliff giving a panoramic view of the valley and the mesmerizing Waterfalls. One can witness the natural habitats of the wildlife in these rainforests and the multitudes of migratory birds nestled among the tree canopies; all in the safe confines of your balcony.

The retreat has an all-day dining restaurant - Café Samsara. The café offers traditional Kerala dishes, Pan-Asian delicacies, and custom-made fares. All this comes with a view to Athirappilly waterfall in all its splendour- having food in nature’s lap- quite literally! The Madira lounge and bar present the perfect setting to unwind with pleasant views of the cascading waterfalls and drinks of your choice.

The resort is a place of exploration and expansion of the spirit and mind. The guest journey will be rooted in evergreen and seasonal activities, from thrilling outdoor adventures to enjoying professionally crafted wellness offerings. As destination weddings pick up again—albeit with smaller crowds and larger safety checklists; what better way to recite your vows than having the majestic waterfalls, lush greenery, and vast skies as a backdrop, all in a setting of sinful luxury. For those seeking stability and peace of mind, there is a vast array of tailor-made programs including Music retreats, Yoga Retreats, Art Retreats - Mandala Designs, Sculpting, Photography Retreats, Birding & Wildlife Retreats, Workshops on Artistic Writings, etc. that will leave the guests feeling revived, refreshed, and restored.

New Opening | Hyatt Place London City East Celebrates Official Opening

280-room Hyatt Place hotel opens in London

London (June 28, 2021) – Hyatt Place London City East, the third Hyatt Place hotel in London, is officially open, expanding the Hyatt Place brand’s footprint globally in markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members. The new hotel features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings. Hyatt Place London City East is managed by Cycas Hospitality.

Because Hyatt’s efforts are grounded in listening and fueled by care, Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation, and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. The property is located a short walk from Liverpool Street and close to some of the capital’s most important cultural and artistic highlights, including Brick Lane, Spitalfield’s Market, and the Tower of London. Hyatt Place London City East offers guests a stylish place where they can be productive in a laid-back and casual environment.

“With its central location and stylish design incorporating local art links, we’re confident the Hyatt Place concept will prove as popular with those enjoying a short break in the capital as it will with anyone traveling on business,” said Michael Mason-Shaw, general manager of Hyatt Place London City East. “Above all, we look forward to introducing more people to the casual yet practical atmosphere associated with the Hyatt Place brand.”   

Hyatt Place London City East offers:

• 280 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play; many of the guestrooms feature their own private terrace and/or city skyline views

• Breakfast Bar with locally inspired breakfast options every morning in the form of a casual yet elevated buffet

• Pocket square Skyline Bar and Terrace serving a perfectly curated cocktail and beverage menu that can be enjoyed with uninterrupted views of London’s iconic skyline

• Zoom Restaurant providing a range of responsibly sourced global and local cuisine

• The Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or night

• The Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails

• Necessities program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free

• Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestrooms

• Two flexible event spaces each offering flexible, high-tech meeting/function space for up to 20 guests

• Fitness Center featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens

“London is a vibrant city, filled with friendly people, great neighborhoods, and an ever-expanding list of great places to visit and things to do or see,” said Wayne Androliakos, Chief Operating Officer, Cycas Hospitality. “Our hotel is central to all of them, and we are confident that the Hyatt Place London City East will exceed guest expectations while providing them with everything they need while exploring the Capital.”

HYATT PLACE LONDON CITY EAST LEADERSHIP

Hyatt Place London City East is under the leadership of Michael Mason-Shaw, General Manager, Director of Operations Pino Dispinseri, and Director of Sales Silvia Abreu. In his role, Michael is directly responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the hotel, including overseeing the hotel’s approximately 45 associates and ensuring guests encounter the thoughtful service for which the Hyatt Place brand is known. Dispensers oversee the day-to-day activities and ensure the highest level of service is provided to each guest. Abreu is responsible for providing sales service and support to travelers and meeting planners frequenting the London area.

For more information, please visit hyattplace.com.

Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt’s multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhance its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt’s commitment can be found here: hyatt.com/care-and-cleanliness

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

ABOUT HYATT PLACE

Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation, and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed guestrooms featuring distinct zones for sleep, work and play, and free-flowing social spaces that offer seamless transitions from work to relaxation. With more than 365 locations globally, Hyatt Place hotels offer freshly prepared food around the clock, efficient service, and differentiated experiences for World of Hyatt members. For more information, please visit hyattplace.com. Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram and tag photos with #HyattPlace and #WhySettle.

ABOUT CYCAS HOSPITALITY

Founded in 2008, Cycas Hospitality is a pioneering European hotel management company on a mission to make its hotel the best places to work as well as stay.

Operating across both the extended-stay and mainstream hospitality sectors, Cycas plans to double its multi-brand hotel portfolio across the UK and mainland Europe over the next two years. 

With proven expertise in operations, property development, and asset management, Cycas is the preferred hotel operator for major international franchise brands. Having helped IHG, Hyatt, and Marriott develop their dual-branded hotel concept in Europe, in the last two years, Cycas has welcomed Accor, the Radisson Hotel Group, and Qbic hotels to its portfolio.

With a distinctive performance culture and the philosophy that “our job is not over until we get a smile”, Cycas was recognized as a ‘Best Place to Work in Hospitality (2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021) and won the UK hospitality industry’s ‘Best Employer Award’ Catey in 2018, for which it was also shortlisted in 2020.

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New Opening | At 2,000 feet, Shanghai opens world's highest hotel

At 2,000 feet, Shanghai opens world's highest hotel

A restaurant on the 120th floor, yes you read that right, Shanghai has opened the world’s highest luxury restaurant, situated on the 120th floor of a skyscraper.

Apart from the height, this eatery named ‘J Hotel’ boasts of 24-hours personal butler service and is now open for the deep-pocketed guests in China.   

The restaurant is located in the city’s financial capital, at the top of 632-meter (around 2,000 feet) long Shanghai Tower, which is the world’s second-tallest building after Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Guests are whizzed up in the blink of an eye. Elevators running at the speed of 18 meters per second take them up the intimidating skyscraper, to the J Hotel.

Although the hotel’s opening was delayed by the pandemic, it has now started receiving guests, calling on the services of a dedicated butler at all times of day and night.

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Luxury Fairmont hotel to open in Saudi’s Al Khobar

A five-star Fairmont hotel is opening in Saudi Arabia’s city of Al Khobar. The new Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar will be part of the Ajdan Waterfront development. Accor’s CEO India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey Mark Willis describes it as the “ultimate destination.”

He said: “We believe the new Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar will become the ultimate premier urban waterfront development in the Eastern Province, and maybe even the whole of Saudi Arabia, adding to the strong momentum the Fairmont brand is seeing in the Kingdom after the successful opening of Fairmont Riyadh.”

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Six new hotel openings in Ras Al Khaimah

July 2021: Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island

September 2021: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island

Q4 2021: InterContinental Mina Al Arab

2021: Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah

2022: Ananatara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

2022: Conrad Marjan Island

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The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Turks & Caicos, Bringing the Ultimate in Seaside Luxury to the World-Renowned Grace Bay

The Iconic Hospitality Brand Proudly Welcomes Guests to The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, Inviting Them to Delight in the Destination

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is pleased to announce the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, marking the debut of the iconic luxury hospitality brand in this island paradise. Situated on the world-famous Grace Bay in Providenciales, The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos offers an idyllic tropical getaway, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of the destination with the legendary service and elegant accommodations for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is known.

“We are thrilled to expand our global portfolio with the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, a destination known for its stunning natural environment, which has long served as an alluring retreat for the world’s most discerning travelers,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Whether enjoying a sunset sail or family snorkel from the resort’s private catamaran, Lady Grace, to relaxing poolside, The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos offers the perfect opportunity for our guests to recharge and reconnect while making lasting memories.”

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Hilton announces six new hotel openings in France

As travel restrictions ease in France, Hilton is continuing its rapid expansion across the country with the launch of its Tapestry Collection by Hilton and Canopy by Hilton brands in Paris, as well as opening new hotels in Tours and Le Havre.

Tapestry Collection by Hilton will mark its entry in France with the openings of Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées and Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon in the coming months. Embracing the distinct culture of their local neighbourhoods, the hotels will join a global portfolio of almost 60 unique Tapestry Collection by Hilton properties, providing the perfect base for travellers looking for the authentic experience of an independent hotel. Having just opened its first hotel in Madrid this month, later this year the brand will continue its expansion across Europe with the opening of Se Catedral Hotel Porto and The Samuel Ryder Hotel St Albans.

Outside Paris, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre will be Hilton’s first hotels in the renowned Loire Valley region, providing an ideal base for leisure guests looking to explore everything the local area has to offer. Later in the year, Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre will also join the portfolio, bringing the total number of Hilton-branded hotels in France to 20.

The openings follow the recent debut of Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, which opened in May.

As it prepares to welcome back international leisure guests, Hilton has seen searches for leisure stays rise across its existing portfolio, with popular destinations for summer including Hilton Evian Les Bains, Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux and Grand Hotel des Sablettes Plage, Curio Collection by Hilton. Hilton.com data shows that last month, searches for staycation options in France more than doubled, with travellers eager to take a break and reconnect with family and friends. International traffic also increased by more than 75 per cent, suggesting strong demand from international visitors as restrictions continue to ease.

David Kelly, senior vice president, Continental Europe, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming back leisure guests to our hotels across France in time for the summer season. After an incredibly challenging year, these six exciting openings—coupled with wider plans to open around 40 hotels across Europe before the end of the year—demonstrate the strength of the European market and our confidence in the industry’s recovery. We look forward to opening our doors to guests and further diversifying our portfolio, providing a range of options to empower domestic and international travellers alike to explore everything that this fantastic country has to offer.”

Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero

Opened in May

The newly opened 123-room Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, designed by Jean-Philippe Nuel, features period architecture and touches of modern Parisian elegance, encouraging guests to feel as if they’re staying in a local’s historical apartment. Situated in the cultural hotspot of Paris’ 16th arrondissement, the vibrant, neighbourhood hotel is within two kilometres of the Arc de Triomphe, Trocadero Gardens and the Champs-Elysees and features a rooftop terrace and bar with sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre

Expected to open this Summer

Located on the banks of the Loire River and surrounded by the city’s shops, theatres and eateries, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre provide the perfect pitstop for guests looking to explore everything the city has to offer. The stunning new-build hotels form part of a major redevelopment project in the city centre, creating a contemporary, welcoming public space and spectacularly designed, modern facilities.

For those wishing to explore further ahead, Tours—known as the Gateway to the Loire Valley—provides easy access to the famous Loire Valley Chateaux and vineyards, many of which can be reached within an hour from the hotels.

Both hotels feature modern, airy guestrooms, many of which offer stunning views over the Loire River. Guests at Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre can feast on fresh and seasonal produce at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Babette.

Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées

Expected to open this Summer

Taking its inspiration from the historical beauty and elegance of the City of Light, the 46-room Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées promises a truly authentic Parisian stay. From original artwork exclusively curated by French artist Christophe Bonacorsi to bronze night lamps designed by French artist Jean Pierre Viot, the hotel reflects the rich culture of France’s capital city.

Tucked away just minutes from some of the city’s most famous streets, guests can explore the delights of the Champs-Élysées, visit the Eiffel Tower or the iconic Arc de Triomphe or spend the day admiring some of the most famous pieces of art in the world at the Louvre. After a busy day of sightseeing, the cosy lounge and bar and beautifully landscaped garden in the inner patio provide a sanctuary for guests to relax and unwind.

Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon

Expected to open this Autumn

Anchored in its local environment, the 56-room Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon exudes Parisian charm, featuring timeless, elegant décor throughout its public areas and freshly renovated modern bedrooms and suites. The hotel’s stunning glass-roofed atrium gives a warm welcome to guests, providing a place to relax whilst enjoying a drink and selection of locally sourced dishes.

Nestled amongst the shops and restaurants of the 12th arrondissement and just a kilometre from the famous Place de la Bastille, Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon provides a perfect “pied-à-terre" to unpack for a night, a weekend or a longer stay. Whether strolling through the streets of Paris to discover its famous landmarks or stopping off between business meetings, the hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the City of Light, with famous sights such as Notre Dame Cathedral just a 20-minute walk away.

Guests at the hotels can travel with peace of mind from check-in to check-out with Hilton CleanStay. New standards include a Hilton CleanStay Room Seal to indicate that a room has not been accessed since being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, increased frequency of cleaning of all public areas and flexible housekeeping options.

All the hotels are part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty programme for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and access to the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Hilton Honors members can redeem Points using the Points Explorer tool. All hotels offer fully flexible booking options with free changes and cancellations, with most giving guests flexibility to change or cancel up to 24 hours before their arrival day.

Hilton aims to nearly quadruple KSA hotel network by 2025

The Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Financial District is the latest opening in Saudi Arabia by the famous US hotelier, but the company has big plans in the pipeline for the Kingdom, including more than 40 new properties and the recruitment of thousands of Saudi professionals.

“Saudi Arabia is an important market for us,” Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, president of Hilton Middle East, Africa and Turkey, told Arab News. “We’re trying to expand all of our different brands as much as we can in the right cities.”

Hilton — which has a regional office in Jeddah — today has 18 brands across 119 countries, and more than 6,500 properties worldwide. The Middle East now has 61 Hilton hotels with 85 more in the pipeline, 41 of which will be in Saudi Arabia over the next three to four years.

“If I look at Saudi Arabia, at all the cities, every country should at least have a Hampton or Garden Inn,” Sleiffer said. “Mid-market hotels should be in every city in Saudi Arabia, and currently there is more demand for hotels than there is supply.”

The Waldorf Astoria, Hilton’s most luxurious brand, has operated in Jeddah for many years, alongside the likes of brands including Conrad, Hampton and DoubleTree. On deciding which brand to introduce in a given city, Sleiffer said that an analysis of the market and a future forecast is necessary to understand the demographics of potential guests.

Of the 41 pipeline projects, most will be “upscale,” like DoubleTree, while others will cater to the mid-market segment, like Garden Inn. “This is where the bulk is, the upscale and mid-market. Pre-pandemic, Saudi Arabia has had strong demand in the business segment and religious tourism, but now the leisure demand is much bigger,” he said.

With international travel having restarted in the Kingdom on May 17, Sleiffer said that people are desperate to travel again and go to places they have not been before, like Saudi Arabia.

“In the next two years, we expect to hire about 2,000 people. Over the next 10 years, 10,000 people — half of which will be Saudis. I want Saudis to run these hotels. We have training programs and we have a Hilton university which has more than 5,000 online training courses.”

The Hilton president said that according to figures from the World Travel and Tourism Council, one in 10 jobs are in hospitality and tourism, but added: “Saudi is low where that’s concerned, so we need to bring it up here as well. It will come up, I have no doubt — take Hilton Riyadh as an example, where 44 percent of current staff is Saudi.”

Demand is certainly there, as a survey in December commissioned by The Red Sea Development Co. found that about nine in 10 young Saudis surveyed said they would be keen to work in the tourism and hospitality sectors, compared to 77 percent who said they were interested in a job in petrochemicals.

When the pandemic hit more than a year ago, Hilton shifted its focus to three things: The safety of staff and customers, the community around hotels, and property.

This involved postponing investment deals to help preserve cash, adapting to safety protocols, and making layoffs where necessary. However, as vaccination rates picked up, Hilton has been begun rehiring at an accelerated rate, Sleiffer said.

“We put emphasis on the touchpoints in the room, the light switches, and the remote controls. We developed Hilton CleanStay and Hilton EventReady for meetings,” he added.

Mobile check-in and digital key — developed by Hilton before the pandemic — has been a significant feature that has decreased interactions between staff and customers, reducing the potential spread of coronavirus.

Sleiffer also hopes to expand the Hilton brand to the Kingdom’s megaprojects, such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project.

“There’s more coming,” he said, mentioning his excitement about the upcoming Formula One race in Jeddah in December this year, where Hilton is serving as the official sponsor of McLaren Racing.

First Radisson hotel opens in port city of Odesa, Ukraine

On the shores of the Black Sea, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa opens as Radisson Hotel Group’s seventh hotel in Ukraine in operation and under development. 

With an excellent location on the famous Derybasivska Street, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa unlocks the cosmopolitan city of Odesa, full of architectural styles, international cuisines and beautiful Black Sea beaches. With the opening of this new property, Radisson Hotel Group now has 1,445 guest rooms in operation and under development in Ukraine and opens its first Radisson branded hotel not only in Odesa, but in the country. 

Offering 90 rooms, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa has been decorated in a soft Scandinavian style to create the perfect oasis for a stay in Odesa with cozy standard rooms alongside elegant and comfortable superior rooms with a Derybasivska view, overlooking the picturesque historical center of Odesa. Guests can enjoy an intimate dining experience at the elegant Gatto Nero Restaurant in the hotel’s cozy interior courtyard. 

With a modern, stylish layout, the restaurant serves an à la carte menu in a relaxed, casual ambiance. For business travellers interested in holding a meeting or event in Odesa, the hotel boasts conference space for up to 85 delegates.

Yilmaz Yildirimlar, Area Senior Vice President, Central & Eastern Europe, Russia and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, says, "We are delighted to open the doors of our first Radisson hotel in Odesa. Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to focus on a work/life balance and find harmony in their travel experience. We believe the brand has strong further potential across Ukraine market and also strengthening our position with over 1,445 guest rooms in operation and under development."

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Alila Hinu Bay Opens to Guests in Oman

The 112-key hotel includes 16 villas and is nestled on a secluded beachfront in Oman’s southwest region of Dhofar. The untouched area is best known for its lush landscapes, cool summers, and it is within easy driving distance from Salalah International Airport. Between Samhan mountain and the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, Alila Hinu Bay caters to well-traveled guests seeking reflection and impactful connections. Along with the breath-taking scenery, the area is known for its rich Bedouin traditions and the renowned warmth of Omani hospitality. Combined with a personalized experience that is crafted for each guest, travelers can expect to be immersed in authentic yet bespoke journeys tailored to their preferences and interests.

New Opening | Avani Hotels To Debut in Phuket on 1st July 2021

We are excited to announce that Avani Hotels is expanding in Thailand, with the upcoming opening of Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas, scheduled to open on 1st July 2021. The launch coincides with The Thai government and Tourism Authority of Thailand plan to reopen travel for vaccinated travellers under the ‘Phuket Sandbox’ programme.

Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas at a glance:

• The resort features 30 spacious private pool villas and 70 residential suites perfect for the long-staying traveller.

• Island excursions include beach hopping, surfing lesson and strolling through the shopping arcade of Turtle Village.

• The resort is situated just a 15-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.

Visit Maldives | Kuda Villingili Resort open doors in the Maldives

The total investment for the Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is INR 1000 crore.

MFAR Hotels & Resorts Private Limited announced the launch of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. The inaugural function was conducted in the presence of the resort’s first official guest, Sunjay Sudhir, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives. The resort is located amidst a sprawling 40-acre island in North Malé Atoll; a 30-minute speedboat rides away from Velana International Airport (MLE), making it one of the most accessible resorts in the Maldives. The total investment for the Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is INR 1000 crore. MFAR has also acquired an island of INR 20 acres in the Maldives for development in the immediate future.

The resort features 59 exquisite beach villas including luxurious penthouses and 36 water villas with an option of private swimming pools. This idyllic haven, inspired by the sprawling nature of the Maldives perfectly balances a sense of togetherness and inclusivity with privacy and independence. It is a slice of paradise that embraces and celebrates the diversity of cultural expressions perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or traveling groups.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives also offers the choice of three diverse dining venues to its guests: The Beach Club, a South American take on the classic beach menu, the resort’s signature dining establishment The Restaurant that serves fresh, handcrafted gourmet food, and The Hawkers, an upscale dining venue with three distinct restaurants, Spice, East, and Med, that serve mouth-watering Indian-Arabic, Thai-Japanese, and Italian-Mediterranean fusion street food respectively, through each restaurant’s open kitchens.


“From island excursions to stellar surfing, from stargazing to wildlife encounters, from sandbank dining to big game fishing, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives will never be in shortage of exciting activities for our guests,” said Dr. P Mohamed Ali (Galfar), Chairman and Founder of MFAR group of companies.

“This much-awaited property was delivered within the promised time to our beloved guests. Experience the best Maldives can offer with our most convenient, comfortable, safe, and hassle-free stay,” said Abdul Basheer, Director of MFAR group of companies.

Other hospitality projects by MFAR Hotels & Resorts include Le Méridien Kochi & The International Convention Centre in Kochi, The Westin Chennai, and The Radisson Collection by Hormuz Grand, Muscat, Oman. MFAR has also acquired land in Sri Lanka for the development of a beach resort. The resort promises its guests state-of-the-art food & accommodation facilities and is already being dubbed as one of the best resorts to stay in the Maldives.

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Marriott International | Marriott to introduce Courtyard by Marriott brand to Sri Lanka

The hotel is expected to feature 164 rooms and is anticipated to open in late 2021

Marriott International, Inc. signed an agreement with Colombo City Centre Partners (Private) Limited, part of the Abans Group, one of Sri Lanka’s largest conglomerates with diversified interests in retail, real estate development, environmental management, and logistics to debut the Courtyard by Marriott brand in Sri Lanka. The hotel is expected to feature 164 rooms and is anticipated to open in late 2021.

“We are delighted to strengthen our Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of hotels in Sri Lanka with today’s signing,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding China), Marriott International. “This signing underscores our long-term commitment to Sri Lanka as a strategically important market, offering the potential to grow our brands and provide customers with more choices.”

Set in the heart of Colombo city adjacent to the Beira Lake, the Courtyard by Marriott Colombo will provide convenient business connectivity and excellent views of the city skyline. Slated to feature 164 modern-styled guest rooms and suites, the hotel will offer an inviting hospitality experience through its intuitive service and uplifting spaces, allowing business and leisure guests to shift gears smoothly from work to relaxation. Design plans call for thoughtfully designed rooms, featuring a functional work area, smart amenities, and high-speed internet access, empowering guests to stay both connected and productive while on the road, no matter the purpose of their trip.

“We are very pleased to collaborate with Abans Group, who share our vision to offer smart, intuitive service and high-quality accommodation in Sri Lanka,” commented Kiran Andicot, Regional Vice President - Development, South Asia, Marriott International.

The hotel is set to feature two dining venues – including an all-day dining restaurant offering a combination of Western dishes, Asian favorites, and a host of local delicacies as well as an adjoining Lobby Lounge decked with a full-service bar and a quick-bites menu. Additional plans call for a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool and three meeting rooms to be fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and wireless internet.

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NEW Opening | Avani Hotels Debuts on Bali’s Hottest Corner | Avani Seminyak

Bali: As the world starts to travel again, Avani is extremely excited to introduce you to the brand’s debut resort on Indonesia’s popular tourist island of Bali. Take a glance at the new Avani Seminyak Bali Resort:

The resort features 16 spacious private pool villas and 21 residential suites - perfect for long-staying travellers.

• The main dining outlet - GROOVE, serves classic Balinese cuisine as well as Indonesian regional favourites.

• Island excursions include beach hopping, surfing lessons and art galleries tours in Seminyak.

• Hop on a scooter and ride up to Canggu, discovering the eclectic collection of cafes as well as hidden beaches.

• The resort is situated just a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).

Avani Seminyak Bali Resort - Two Bedroom Pool Villa

Avani Seminyak Bali Resort - One Bedroom Terrace Suite Balcony

Avani Seminyak Bali Resort - Three Bedroom Plunge Pool Suite Garden

New Opening | The Ritz-Carlton Opens Its First Resort in the Maldives

The first Ritz-Carlton property in the island paradise opened on June 1.

It’s just a 10-minute seaplane or 45-minute speedboat trip from Malé’s Velana International Airport up to the Fari Islands archipelago in the North Malé Atoll, where the first Ritz-Carlton property in the Maldives opened June 1. The all-villa resort offers everything you’d want in a tropical getaway—white sand beaches, crystal-blue lagoons, overwater, and beachfront accommodations—as well as the type of elevated offerings you would expect from the luxury brand. As seen in these exclusive first-look photos, it’s all wrapped up in a striking, modern design by the late Australian architect Kerry Hill, who took inspiration for the spherical buildings from the circular forms of the lagoon, the swirling ocean breezes, and the cyclical nature of island life.

With seemingly every major luxury brand already operating in the Maldives, it is noteworthy that Ritz-Carlton is just now entering that market. “Expanding into this destination is something we have had our eye on for a long time, as we continue to evolve our portfolio, [and this] is the perfect moment for us to debut in the Maldives, as luxury travelers continue to seek out opportunities for meaningful exploration and reconnection, as well as destinations that offer access to open spaces and natural beauty,” Donna McNamara, vice president and global brand leader for Ritz-Carlton, tells Robb Report.

When asked how Ritz-Carlton might differentiate itself from the other five-star options in the country, McNamara says that “thoughtful expansion remains a top priority for the brand. We want every Ritz-Carlton property to be the gateway for immersion into the unique cultures where we operate. I love that from the moment you arrive at the resort, you feel deeply connected to the destination.” McNamara further notes that as “the Maldives offers so much more than a stunning physical environment, [the resort is] focused on bringing the rich culture to life for our guests.”

To help make these connections to the destination, guests of each of the 100 overwater or beachfront villas will enjoy the round-the-clock services of a dedicated aris meeha, or personal butler, who can organize activities such as Maldivian cooking classes, traditional drum performances timed to sunset, beach cricket matches or kids’ arts and craft sessions. Along with featuring organic products from UK-based Bamford, the ring-shaped, nine-room spa—which floats over the lagoon—performs signature treatments using local ingredients like heated sand, fresh coconut and native herbs. Guests of all ages will also be able to engage with the underwater world around the resort—home to a resident pod of dolphins—via activities led by experts from Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program, with which Ritz-Carlton has had a longtime partnership.

The resort’s four sections include a dedicated “culinary island,” home to seven restaurants featuring dishes from Japan, Italy, India, Lebanon and China; the Cantonese-focused Summer Pavilion is an outpost of the Michelin-starred Singapore eatery by the same name. A large kids’ club, tennis courts, a photography studio (offering equipment rental and a range of classes) and areas for water sports round out the facilities, while the villas themselves feature private pools (the three-bedroom Ritz-Carlton Estate has two), indoor-outdoor showers, al fresco lounging space and—depending on their location—direct beach access or overwater hammocks. To help honor the destination further, the resort was designed to minimize impact on the reef ecosystem through the use of pre-fabricated materials and construction techniques, and solar panels, glazing and other sustainable methods have been employed to help lower the carbon footprint. Rates start at $1,500 a night for one-bedroom villas, $4,400 a night for two-bedroom villas and $22,500 per night for the Ritz-Carlton Estate.