Summer thoughts

Ashford Castle named No.1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland, The Oyster Box ranked No.1 Top Resort Hotel in Africa

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection is honoured to have two of the jewels in its collection awarded number one in their regions in the 25th anniversary Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards. Ashford Castle was named 'No. 1 Resort Hotel in the United Kingdom and Ireland' and The Oyster Box, Durban's most beloved hotel, hit the No. 1 spot in the 'Top Resort Hotels in Africa' category.

Furthermore, Red Carnation Hotels was listed as number four in the 'Top 25 Hotel Brands in the World' and London's illustrious Milestone Hotel & Residences in Kensington was also listed as number three in the 'Top London City Hotel' category.

The awards, voted for by readers of Travel + Leisure, judge hotels on a variety of characteristics including their rooms and facilities, location, service, food and value. With excellence at the heart of everything the collection does, Red Carnation and its individual properties have always scored highly in the awards, year on year. The hotels are landmarks of history and tradition, each lovingly and individually designed with an abundance of original art, antiques and handcrafted furniture. Generous hospitality, passionate staff and world-class dining are also the hallmarks of every stay at Red Carnation. Under the direction of President & Founder, Mrs Beatrice Tollman, the collection also works tirelessly to deliver sustainable luxury and to protect the natural and cultural heritage in each location of its 20 properties around the world.

Summer thoughts

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PLEASE TAKE NOTE of Travel Restrictions & Advisory News due to COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. #WearaMask #SocialDistancing

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Expands Presence in Thailand with Four Hotel Signings

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchisor with 9,300 hotels across approximately 90 countries, and leading provider of hotel management services, has announced plans to further expand its presence in Thailand with the introduction of four new hotels, all centrally located in the heart of Bangkok's commercial district.

The four hotels will be represented by four distinct brands under Wyndham's portfolio – Wyndham, Wyndham Garden, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham, and Ramada by Wyndham – all scheduled to open within the next 24 months.

All four hotels in Bangkok are signed under a license agreement with Siamese and Kew Green Company Limited – a joint partnership between local property developer, Siamese Wealth Company Limited and hotel management operator, Kew Green Group Limited.

"Our partnership with Siamese and Kew Green complements Wyndham's long-term growth strategy in Thailand to build on strong relationships with distinguished owners and reinforce our presence in key markets and capital cities. Bangkok consistently ranks as the top destination city both in Asia Pacific and globally, topping the Global Travel Index for the past four years. Growing our presence in the city was a natural decision for us. When travel resumes, we are confident that Bangkok will once again be a top destination; and Wyndham will be ready to welcome guests with a range of exceptional hotels,” said Joon Aun OOI, President, Asia Pacific, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

“The four signings will further establish our presence in the bustling capital of Thailand, and also mark the debut of our Wyndham and Wyndham Garden brands to the city. Bangkok is a charming destination offering a myriad of local experiences including stunning historical landmarks and world-class cuisines. All of our four new hotels are well-positioned in the heart of the Bangkok CBD and will provide our guests a range of curated brand concepts and a great launch pad to discover all that city has to offer,” said Andy Flaig, Head of Development, South East Asia and Pacific Rim, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

The Efteling in The Netherlands, a world full of magic

At Engage for Moments, get to read Markus' anecdotes -

The Efteling in The Netherlands, a world full of magic

When thinking of theme parks, one quickly thinks of exciting rides, roller-coaster and many shops. This often based on movies or other large “money-making” projects.
Read more about Markus' Anecdotes via :

https://www.engageformoments.com/post/markus-anecdotes-efteling

Banyan Tree Group opens its third property in Mexico- Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana, an oasis on the outskirts of Merida

Banyan Tree Group announces the launch of its third property in Mexico, Hacienda Xcanatun which will be operated by its upscale brand, Angsana. Located 15 minutes from the centre of Merida, 10 minutes from the archaeological zone of Dzibilchaltún, and 20 minutes from the beaches of Puerto Progreso, Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana promises to be a new historic-chic oasis in the region.

Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana presents a contemporary interpretation of the legendary Yucatan (henequenera) Haciendas (large agricultural estates of the 18th century amidst henequen agave plant). It represents a new commitment of the award-winning hotel group in promoting this destination's rich historical heritage and culture.

“Mexico is the gateway to luxury tourism in the American continent, and we are delighted to be part of this opportunity, and operate a property like Hacienda Xcanatun. This is our first property managed by Angsana in the country, and we are proud to bring the brand to this terrestrial paradise in the Yucatan Peninsula,” said Mr Peter Hechler, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts SAVP and Head of Regional Operations MENA (Middle East, Europe, North Africa & Americas).

The Angsana brand under the Banyan Tree Group operates 15 hotels and resorts in 10 different countries. It brings adventure to travellers, intertwining chic venues with a vibrant atmosphere full of culture. Now, under the seal of quality and global luxury standards of Angsana, the Hacienda has evolved into a contemporary space, with the aim to be the first local resort, inspiring the philosophy of carefree luxury and enjoying the best moments.

Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana reflects the harmonic authenticity of a historic legacy, showcasing contemporary art and comfortable modernity. Inspired by Yucatan culture, the ruins of the original structure have been preserved. Pre-Hispanic and modern elements are incorporated throughout the new design and the feeling of tranquility is apparent throughout the Hacienda. The refreshing experience includes 18 renovated suites designed by renowned Mexican architectural firm Estudio 240.

https://www.angsana.com/en/mexico/hacienda-xcanatun

Park Hyatt Auckland Set to Open, Introducing a New Level of Luxury

New Zealand's first Park Hyatt hotel will open its restaurants and bars this spring, providing Aucklanders and visitors with new sophisticated places to meet, drink and dine in a prime waterfront location. Hotel guestrooms are currently available for reservations from 15 September, providing unrivalled accommodation options that will set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in New Zealand.

Overlooking Waitematā Harbour, the new Park Hyatt Auckland will be a sophisticated, waterfront residence that will provide guests with unique and intimate experiences. The hotel will offer intuitive and personalised experiences for discerning domestic travellers, with signature restaurant Onemata set to offer gastronomic delights to both guests and the local community.

“We look forward to introducing the exceptional service that the Park Hyatt brand is renowned for in this dynamic city as the domestic tourism industry in New Zealand evolves in this new era of travel,” said General Manager Brett Sweetman, Park Hyatt Auckland. “In spite of Covid-19, we have kept all 150 employees on board thanks to owners Fu Wah and will recruit more colleagues when the hotel opens. We have created something that will be truly special, and we invite Aucklanders to experience our food and beverage offerings in our waterfront surroundings alongside the standout views.”

Guests booking ahead of 31st October 2020 to stay at the hotel before 31st December can take advantage of Park Hyatt Auckland's opening offer and receive NZD$50 credit per night to spend on site as well as a complimentary room upgrade to the next room category.

https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/new-zealand/park-hyatt-auckland/aklph

Pullman Yueyang Debuts as the First International Premium Hotel in Hunan's Historical and Cultural City

Accor announces the opening of Pullman Yueyang in Hunan province. The contemporary premium hotel is the ancient Chinese city's first international upscale branded hotel and Pullman's 39th property to open in Greater China.

Pullman Yueyang is located by the famous Dongting Lake, Nanhu scenic area in Yueyang. An important central Chinese city along the Yangtze River with more than 25 centuries of history, Yueyang is the only international trade port in Hunan. With stunning lake views, the hotel offers easy access to tourist destinations including Nanhu Square, Sheng'an Temple and Jin'e Park. The hotel is just eight kilometers away from the central business district, 30 minutes' drive from Yueyang East Railway Station, and 35 minutes' drive from Yueyang Sanhe Airport.

Pullman Yueyang offers 213 spacious guestrooms and suites, with the majority boasting balconies and panoramic views of Dongting Lake. The outdoor swimming pool is directly accessible by 16 rooms, including six family rooms and three suites. In keeping with the natural surroundings, the hotel's design features water and forest elements. Combined with the warmth of Mediterranean inspired architecture through yellow walls and red tiles, the hotel is imbued with a romantic and welcoming ambience. Guestrooms are appointed with the Pullman brand's signature amenities including C.O. Bigelow toiletries, exclusively for guests' enjoyment.

To celebrate the opening, Pullman Yueyang is offering a special package from now until September 30th, 2020. For reservations or enquiries, please visit https://all.accor.com/hotel/8309/index.en.shtml or email H8309@accor.com or call +86 (0730) 812 8888.

Red Carnation Hotels Honoured With Two Number Ones in 25th Travel + Leisure 2020 World's Best Awards

Ashford Castle named No.1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland, The Oyster Box ranked No.1 Top Resort Hotel in Africa

Fairmont Singapore...Set & SAFE to Welcome You Back

Less than a year after an extensive transformation of its South Tower guestrooms and Fairmont Gold Lounge, Fairmont Singapore celebrates another milestone as the first Accor LUXE hotel in Asia Pacific to be recognised with the brand's unique global cleanliness and hygiene ALLSAFE label.

With Singapore's recent entry into Phase 2 of its reopening strategy, and as the Group and Hotel gear up for recovery, this recognition comes as a timely testament of Fairmont Singapore's unwavering commitment to the prioritising of guests and colleagues' safety and well-being; and provides needed assurance, confidence and peace-of-mind to guests and patrons that the Hotel has met and will continue to uphold some of the most stringent cleaning standards & operational protocols in the world of hospitality.

The Accor ALLSAFE global cleanliness & hygiene standards have been developed with and vetted by Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspections and certification. All the Group's hotels must apply these standards and will be audited either by Accor operational experts or by third-party auditors such as Bureau Veritas to receive this label.

In conjunction with the hotelwide ALLSAFE label, Fairmont Singapore and Raffles City Convention Centre, together with our audiovisual partner, Encore; will also be at the forefront in safe meeting practices with a set of ALLMeetSafe guidelines that have been put in place for implementation during the early phases of recovery to meetings and events. These encompass a series of meeting formats, equipment packages, and recommendations that address how to reduce risk and safeguard well-being within the meeting space for events clients and their guests. At the heart of this initiative is the goal to our guests feel comfortable and confident to hold meetings and events in our premises again.

https://www.fairmont.com/singapore/

BridgeClimb hosts 'First Climb' towards the return of Australian tourism

Taken on FRIDAY, 26 June 2020: BridgeClimb, Australia's iconic tourism attraction hosted the first climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge as a celebration of reopening and the return of the NSW domestic travel industry.

Guests included:
Dominic Perrottet - NSW Treasurer
David Hammon - CEO of Hammons Holdings (BridgeClimb, Scenic World)
Phillipa Harrison - CEO of Tourism Australia
Steve Cox - CEO of Destination NSW
Peter Shelley - Managing Director of ATEC (Australian Tourism Export Council)
Lyn Lewis-Smith - CEO of BE Sydney
Margy Osmond - CEO of TTF (Tourism & Transport Forum Australia)

Dominic Perrottet, NSW Treasurer was a guest of honour on the climb and spoke at the summit.

Following this climb, BridgeClimb has opened its doors to the public since Saturday 27th June, inviting climbers back to rediscover the city and explore one of the world's most famous structures.

BridgeClimb is operating as a COVID Safe place to visit and work. All Climbs will travel in small, physically distanced groups, and the entirety of BridgeClimb premises will operate with increased cleaning schedules, including ongoing sanitisation completed within the Climb Base, and throughout climber's pre and post-climb journey.

For more information on BridgeClimb, please visit the www.bridgeclimb.com and to keep up with updates check out @bridgeclimb #bridgeclimb

A Quarantine Stay Fit For A Rock Star And Helps Those In Need!

A Quarantine Stay Fit For A Rock Star And Helps Those In Need!

Ovolo knows 14-night quarantine stays are not the easiest, being confined to a cramped room consecutively for days and with little to do and limited service. That's why Ovolo Hotels have launched the new Quarantine Concierge services and inclusions fit for a rock star. With the Quarantine Concierge amplifications, it is sure to make any guest's long-stay ever the more enjoyable and trust Ovolo when they say it is possible with these new services and inclusions.

Some of their team, through no fault of their own, have faced adversity through being furloughs and unfortunately have not secured government support or wage subsidies. Hence, they have come up with a Shiny Happy People Promise. Ovolo Group is a human-led business and they are dedicated to supporting the humans of Ovolo. So, in true Ovolo style, for the rest of 2020, 5% from every direct booking will go towards supporting their teammates most in need.

With Quarantine Concierge, everything is kicked up a notch with exciting new add-ons so each guest can add a little oomph to their quarantine stay – something that no other 14-night stay package offers. Whether it's stimulating the mind, the body, or even the liver, this package has something for everyone.

When booking any stay for 14 nights or more at Ovolo Central, Ovolo Southside or The Sheung Wan by Ovolo, guests can book the new Quarantine Concierge through the Ovolo Hong Kong offers page or if you prefer to speak to your personal Quarantine Concierge throughout the booking process you can do so by emailing quarantine@ovologroup.com or calling +852 2165 1000.

https://ovolohotels.com/