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MARCH 2016 ISSUE 01
AFRICA / INDIAN OCEAN
06
MALDIVES
LUXURY FOR ALL
24
QATAR
EMPORIUM WITH CHARM
36
GREECE
JUST LIKE THAT
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
CONTENT
Welcome
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR
Mary Kammitsi
[email protected]
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Maria Kazeli
Over the years, the definition of luxury has greatly evolved in line
with our fast-paced lifestyle which has prompted many to value
time-well-spent over money-well-spent.
Personalised experiences have taken over expensive goods, making
travel one of the most highly appreciated ways of living. Exploring
places that take your breath away, immersing in cultures that
inspire you, experiencing things that add value to your life, and
creating memories that will be cherished forever are priceless.
Travel Trade Luxury goes above and beyond to find the best of
the best, be it a seven-star hotel in the Middle East, an exclusive
expedition in Asia, a safari lodge in Africa, a private jet flight to
Australia or an extraordinary road trip across the US.
Join our journey!
Rita Kasziba
Senior Journalist
SENIOR JOURNALIST
Rita Kasziba
JOURNALIST
Pauline Shahabian
CONTRIBUTOR
Ana Mladenovic
PRESS
Maria Demetriadou
Inna Armeanu
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Elena Stylianou
WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Savvas Kammitsis
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
CONTENT
03
AFRICA^&
INDIAN OCCEAN
WEBSITE
www.traveltradeeurope.travel
19
MIDDLE EAST
Discover: QATAR
Experience: MALDIVES
09
33
EUROPE
ASIA PACIFIC
15
AMERICAS
Pick
OF THE MONTH
TURKS & CAICOS
ISLANDS
2
Picture: GREECE
39
40
EMAILS
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AT YOUR SERVICE
WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES
EVENTS
Located 885km southeast from Miami, Florida,
to the east of Cuba, Turks and Caicos Islands
consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which
are inhabited. Every year, some 200,000 travellers
visit the destination which heavily relies on
tourism.
The islands, which can be accessed by both
air and sea, are home to a number of high-end
resorts and hotels as well as to privately owned
villas for rent. The pristine beaches also provide
an ideal backdrop for weddings and honeymoons.
Representative for North, South & Central
America, and the Caribbean:
Neil Strickland
GlobeTM
Tel: +19542969515
[email protected]
Representative for Indian subcontinent:
Faredoon Kuka
RMA Media
Tel: +912229253735
[email protected]
Cover by Petasos Beach Luxury Hotel & Spa,
Mykonos
MARCH 2016
ACCOMMODATION AFRICA / INDIAN OCEAN TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
THE MALDIVES EMBODIES LUXURY IN ALL ITS GLORY, DELIVERING QUALITY ESCAPES FOR ALL
AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN
MARCH 2016
3
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN ACCOMMODATION
Four Seasons Adds Chic to Casablanca
F
our Seasons Hotel Casablanca is now
open, boasting wide terraces and floor-toceiling windows offering ocean views in
the heart of Morocco’s busiest city.
The hotelier collaborated with some
of the world’s top designers to create an inviting
environment, reflective of the storied destination
and the very definition of high-end hospitality.
“Our design approach continues to evolve as we
provide the luxurious comfort, technology and
flexibility our guests want. […] We set the stage,
and then customise the experience of each guest
who walks through our doors; we believe that
personalisation is the true essence of modern
luxury,” commented Olivier Thomas, general
manager, Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca.
Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Botswana Boasts Refreshed
Lodge
B
elmond Eagle Island Lodge reopened as the ultimate
Okavango Delta water-based safari, unveiling a
sleek new look following an almost total rebuild.
The luxury base, hailed as one of Botswana’s original
safari lodges, offers a glimpse into one of Africa’s
last remaining wildlife habitats.
Immersing guests in contemporary luxury, the lodge boasts 12
tented rooms, each with its own plunge pool and outdoor deck
overlooking the Okavango River. Design highlights include an
oversized bed, a walk-in wardrobe, bathroom with a large tub
and walled outdoor showers.
Moreover, the fully-renovated public areas feature a restaurant
with wood-burning pizza oven, offering both indoor and alfresco
dining, and a lounge area with artisanal-style bar and a library.
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
4
Sanctuary Chief’s
Camp Undergoes
Revamp
O
ne of Abercrombie & Kent’s most sought-after African
Safari destinations, Sanctuary Chief’s Camp in
Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve, has embarked on
the extensive renovation of its facilities.
Upon completion in June, the destination will
re-emerge with all 12 of its pavilions rebuilt and generously
expanded from 51m2 to 140m2. Each air-conditioned unit will
boast a new private dining area, tranquil outside seating spaces,
terrace plunge pool, as well as spacious outdoor shower, luxury
bathtub and floor-to-ceiling bathroom windows overlooking the
Okavango Delta.
The camp will also add a pizza deck, orientation room, a gym and
a kids’ playroom to the existing facilities.
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
MARCH 2016
ACCOMMODATION AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
Four Seasons
Johannesburg Launches
Revolutionary Facial
Thanda Island Promises
Absolute Privacy
T
he Biologique Recherche of Paris Seconde Peau
(Second Skin) facial is now available for the first
time in South Africa exclusively at Four Seasons
Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg.
The treatment builds on the immense benefits of a
regenerating and lifting electrospun mask made of 80 percent
hyaluronic acid.
Thanda Island
T
handa Island, hailed as one of the world’s most exclusive tropical
islands, is to launch in April.
Located off the east coast of Tanzania, the destination is ideal for
family vacations and friends’ escape, offering complete privacy as
it houses just a single luxurious villa with five king-sized beds.
Situated in a marine reserve, guests can bathe in a blue heaven with the
gentlest giant of the ocean, the whale shark, and watch sea turtles nest.
Travellers are also welcome to rest, rejuvenate, enjoy adventure sports and
explore a pristine playground, as additional offerings at the property include
sailing, deep sea fishing and snorkelling boats, as well as fishing equipment,
jet skis, kayaks, stand-up pedal boards, and wakeboards.
Seychelles to Receive Luxury Residential Complex
M
ahé is set to welcome Pangia
Beach, a 33-key high-end
residential development, due
for completion in mid-2017.
Incorporating 29 luxury
apartments and four exclusive penthouses,
the establishment boasts direct beach
access, a private marina, 24-hour security,
gym and a club house featuring an infinity
pool.
Each one- to four-bedroom unit offers
panoramic views of the islands of Sainte
Anne and Cerf and permeates light colour
schemes to highlight the open space living
and spacious terraces.
MARCH 2016
Pangia Beach
5
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN EXPERIENCE: MALDIVES
LUXURY FOR ALL
The Maldives has become synonymous with luxury tourism, garnering a large share of the honeymoon
business. However, the destination’s opulence-seeking segment has transformed to become a diversified
product, attracting travellers of all kinds, but never losing sight of its original high-end appeal.
PAULINE SHAHABIAN WRITES
“U
nrivalled extravagance, heavenly white sandy beaches and
magnificent underwater world make the Maldives the top
choice for families, couples and friends for a luxury and
quality holiday destination,” enthused Ibrahim Asim, director,
Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation, who
revealed that the islands welcomed some 1.2 million visitors in 2014, indicating
a seven percent year-on-year increase.
In a bid to promote the country as an exclusive tourist destination for all, the
tourism body embarked on a large-scale marketing campaign, Visit Maldives
Year 2016, showcasing its diversified product, while remaining focussed on its
local roots complemented by first-class facilities and services.
6
SHIFTING PATTERNS
With a growing saturated appeal, Maldives-based travel agencies have
witnessed a change in the demographics of clients.
Mohamed Riyaz, managing director, Lets Go Maldives, posited that with the
luxury segment’s rise, families seeking an upscale travel experience have
become the main source of business for the company, overtaking honeymooners.
Similarly, Aminath Nina Nizar, sales and marketing manager, Sun Travels & Tours,
stressed that although the Maldives used to be known as a popular destination
for newly-weds, the agency caters to a variety of subsectors, including hosted
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN EXPERIENCE: MALDIVES
groups, families and divers, among more.
further adding that the resort offers suitable amenities to serve both segments.
Indeed, Asim noted that tourism stakeholders have started taking steps to
accommodate all types of guests, with family travellers remaining a key priority,
especially those from the Gulf region.
Though families seem to be the key emerging market for high-end products
and services in the Maldives, the shift in patterns has opened a gateway to
alternative sources of business as well.
JOINING THE BANDWAGON
W Retreat & Spa – Maldives, which hosted almost 42,000 travellers in 2015,
implements a no child policy for kids under 10. Consequently, the resort is
marketed as an exclusive escape for honeymooners, couples and solo guests.
“Our concept for the resort is to offer value for everyone, as this is the ultimate
luxury,” said Evgenia Boyankova, director of sales and marketing, The Sun Siyam
Iru Fushi Maldives, noting that the product offering at the five-star property
allows it to cater to varied segments, rather than exclusively to honeymooners.
According to Boyankova, the resort welcomed over 23,000 guests in 2015,
including couples as well as families enjoying wholesome activities on the
island. In fact, approximately half of the hotel’s visitors in 2015 were families, up
from 40 percent in 2014, indicating remarkable growth in a short period.
Shedding the light on the changing patterns, Graham Kiy, general manager,
Jumeirah Vittaveli, posited that even though the property has seen a rise in the
family segment, this trend is market dependent and is encompassed with couples.
“The Asian market continues to consist mostly of honeymooners, with the
exception of family travel from China for major holidays. Family travel is
increasing from the UAE, the UK and Russia, [and there was]a small growth
in families travelling from Germany, Austria and Switzerland,” elaborated Kiy,
8
According to Paul Yui, complex director, sales and marketing, W Retreat & Spa –
Maldives and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, the former hotel, which
underwent a complete renovation of its facilities in an effort to attract more
leisure and business visitors, is keen on targeting what he described as the late
Gen X traveller who is typically in the early 30s, educated and less likely to
have children, and has a penchant for design, fashion and music.
Whereas the latter property, which aims to offer the ultimate destination
vacation experience, provides a range of excursions and activities.
Kiy also put forth the notion that the country holds strong potential for business
travel as well, concerning large corporations organising incentive visits.
Whatever may be the case, the Maldives remains a sought-after location,
boasting the ability to garner the broad luxury market, seamlessly adapting to
changing demographics, making a top destination for a breadth of travellers.
MARCH 2016
A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY COMPLETES A TRULY HOLISTIC EXPERIENCE IN ASIA PACIFIC'S FASCINATING DESTINATIONS
ASIA PACIFIC
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
ACCOMMODATION
ASIA PACIFIC
St. Regis to Debut
in Indonesian Capital
Shangri-La Enhances
Chinese Portfolio
S
hangri-La International Hotel Management and Golden Concord
Holdings signed an agreement for the management of Jinji Lake
Shangri-La, Suzhou.
Scheduled to open at the end of 2017, the hotel will form part of
the upscale Xiexin Plaza complex which comprises 249,731m2
of luxury living space and an office tower in Suzhou Industrial Park.
The property will feature 328 guestrooms and serviced apartments, premier
dining as well as leisure and conference facilities.
Greg Dogan, president, Shangri-La International Hotel Management,
enthused, “This project provides the group an opportunity to further expand
our brand portfolio in China and the city of Suzhou.”
Jakarta
S
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide reached a management
agreement with Rajawali Property Group to open The St. Regis
Jakarta and The Residences at The St. Regis Jakarta.
Slated to open in 2019, the accommodation establishments
will form part of a new mixed-use development which will also
feature a commercial office tower.
The hotel will boast 280 rooms, four distinctive restaurants, expansive
function space spanning 3,600m2, a spa, fitness centre and swimming pool.
In addition, the residences will offer three types of apartments ranging in
size, concierge service, a private garden pool as well as an isolated dining
and library lounge.
Suzhou
New Premier Villas at Four Seasons Bali
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
10
A
iming to enrich the sense of place and
sanctuary, Four Seasons Resort Bali at
Jimbaran Bay unveiled its fully renovated
premier and deluxe villas.
“When the resort opened in 1993, it was
the world’s first large-scale luxury villa resort and
the first to feature plunge pools in every guest villa,”
said Uday Rao, general manager, Four Seasons Resort
Bali at Jimbaran Bay.
A local design firm was commissioned to enliven
the villas’ Balinese aesthetic while creating flexible
living spaces. As a result the units now boast larger
plunge pools, redesigned exteriors, an extra kids’
room in the family premier villas and new electronics.
MARCH 2016
ACCOMMODATION
ASIA PACIFIC
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
Hotel Okura to Debut in Phnom Penh
H
The Okura Prestige Phnom Penh
otel Okura, the operator of Okura Hotels &
Resorts, Hotel JAL City and Nikko Hotels
International, is to develop and manage The
Okura Prestige Phnom Penh, to be opened in
Cambodia’s capital in 2019.
The move marks the first time a Japanese hotelier enters the
luxury market in the Asian country.
With expansive views of the city and the Royal Palace, the
40-storey, 250-room development will be part of The Bay, a
residential and commercial complex built between the Tonle
Sap and Mekong River on the Chroy Changvar Peninsula, 17km
from Phnom Penh International Airport.
By 2018, the company plans to introduce Okura Hotels
& Resorts in Cappadocia and Manila, while Nikko Hotels
International is to establish presence in Taizhou and Bangkok.
The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo Shines on Culinary Scene
Azure 45 at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
T
he Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has
reaffirmed its gastronomic credentials as
the list of its worldwide properties boasting
Michelin Stars grew by one in 2015 to
reach 13, with Azure 45 at The Ritz-Carlton
Tokyo being awarded the coveted distinction.
Praising the company’s dedicated employees,
Rainer Zinngrebe, vice president, food and beverage,
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, said, “They work
with such dedication and passion in an environment in
which constant evolution and creativity is essential.”
The world of three Michelin Star restaurants is
extremely small, with a little over 100 restaurants
in total around the globe – one of those being Aqua
at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg in Germany.
Amanemu Gears Up for
Launch
Amanemu
J
apan’s picturesque Honshu island is celebrating the opening of
Amanemu, an intimate resort perched on the rolling shores of Ago Bay,
famed as the Bay of Pearls.
Each of the property’s 24 suites and four villas boasts a private hot spring,
or as locally known, onsen, and the whole resort is graced with classical
Japanese aesthetic incorporating natural materials and colours. Guests can be
pampered at Aman Spa, complete with two open-air hot springs, as well as a
restaurant, lounge, a library and a lotus pond with a meditation pavilion.
Set on Shima Peninsula, 300km from Tokyo or a 25-minute helicopter ride from
Nagoya, the resort is surrounded by gardens and waters.
MARCH 2016
11
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
ASIA PACIFIC
TRANSPORTATION
Great Southern Rail Enhances Offering
F
Platinum Club
eaturing a deluxe bar, lounge
and flexible dining areas
exclusive to members,
Platinum Club marks the first
major refurbishment for Great
Southern Rail’s fleet since 2008.
Steve Kernaghan, director of sales,
marketing and distribution, Great
Southern Rail, said, “We have experienced
a 24 percent increase in demand for
platinum service travel over the past two
years so we are delighted to be able to
enhance our premium offerings with this
new social and dining space on The Ghan
and Indian Pacific trains.”
The new club seats 30 guests for dining
and 20 in the lounge area. Following the
inaugural journey of the first of four new
carriages, the remaining units will also
be rolled out soon.
Sydney Airport to Showcase High-end Retail Line-up
T
ravellers passing through Sydney Airport can look forward to a luxury retail precinct, as Tiffany & Co. is set to open in the hub’s new T1 International
terminal.
Expected to launch in the first half of the year, the jeweller will join a collection of 13 upscale designer brands as part of the airfield’s improvement
programme which aims to deliver enhanced choices for passengers.
The new store will occupy the largest footprint in the 1,900m2 area, and will display a variety of creations.
12
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
ASIA PACIFIC
BITS OF BLISS
Luxexperience Arrives in Australia
Perth
L
uxury travel and lifestyle exhibition, Luxexperience hosted its first-ever pop-up event in Australia.
The happening in Perth, which followed three years of successful pop-up hosting in New York and London, kicked off a series of intimate forums around the
country which aims to promote Events by Luxexperience and the company’s ability to create new business connections amongst MICE buyers.
The luxury specialist will also visit Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney in the coming months.
The main event, Luxexperience and Events by Luxexperience will be held between September 18 – 21 at Sydney’s Australian Technology Park.
Exquisite Rides in China
H
igh-end travellers, especially those with a penchant for luxury
cars, now have one more reason to head to China.
Embodying the theme of love, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Ghost
Eternal Love collection has been exclusively designed for the
Chinese market and was recently unveiled at Minsheng Art
Museum in Beijing.
As a true masterpiece, the vehicle incorporates a swan design in tribute
of love, and exudes the inheritance of the brand preferred by affluent
drivers as well as chauffeur service providers.
Rolls-Royce Ghost Eternal Love
14
MARCH 2016
SET ALONG THE PACIFIC OCEAN, SAN FRANCISCO WELCOMES OVER 18 MILLION VISITORS PER YEAR
AMERICAS
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
AMERICAS
ICE District Secures First
Luxury Hotel
ACCOMMODATION
Napa Valley to Welcome
High-end Resort
F
our Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Alcion Ventures and
Bald Mountain Development revealed plans for a new
luxury establishment in California’s premier wine
region.
Slated to open in early 2018, the five-star resort will
feature 85 rooms along with 20 private residence villas. A fully
operational winery and vineyard will also form part of the project,
offering guests a grape-to-glass experience on site where a
limited collection of wines will also be available.
ICE District rendering
J
W Marriott Edmonton will be ICE District Properties’ first luxury
accommodation establishment within ICE District, hailed as Canada’s
largest mixed-use sports and entertainment project to date.
Expected to open in 2018, the 356-key property will feature over
2,323m2 of state-of-the-art meeting and conference space, a 930m2
ballroom, Spa by JW as well as a restaurant.
“The new JW Marriott property will provide guests with enriching luxury
in the heart of downtown Edmonton,” said Don Cleary, president, Canada,
Marriott International.
Four Seasons
Hotel Bogota
Ready to Open
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts’ Napa Valley project
The Ritz-Carlton Enters Paradise Valley
T
he Columbian capital city is gearing
up to welcome its second Four
Seasons-branded property on April
01, as the former Hotel Charleston
reinvents itself as Four Seasons
Hotel Bogotá.
Designed by Lauren Rotett, the intimate hotel
will boast a collection of just 64 rooms – almost
half of which are suites –, each featuring
custom-made beds, hardwood floors and other
luxurious touches. Guests will also have at their
disposal new spa and fitness facilities as well
as two restaurants, with the Japanese outlet
displaying a two-storey glass façade.
“We wanted to create a light-filled space
that could offer multiple options for guests
to dine, drink and enjoy time with friends and
colleagues,” explained Luis Argote, general
manager, Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá.
16
The Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley rendering
T
he Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and Five Star Development Resort Communities signed an
agreement for a new resort and residence in Paradise Valley, near Scottsdale, Arizona, US.
The Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley will consist of 200 casita-style guestrooms and 1,858m2 of
function space to host meetings in a luxurious environment for corporate and incentive clients,
or private celebrations, including weddings. The resort will also have a large destination spa
featuring both an indoor and an outdoor desert-inspired treatment menu.
In addition, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Paradise Valley will include 45 single-family homes and 94 villa
residences and will be developed adjacent to the hotel, granting owners access to the resort’s facilities
and services.
MARCH 2016
ACCOMMODATION
AMERICAS
Time Capsule Buried at Maui’s
Four Seasons
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
New Look at
The Peninsula
Beverly Hills
T
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
T
o commemorate the property’s 25th anniversary, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea asked guests,
employees and managers to contribute written memories, photographs and other memorabilia to
place those in a time capsule. The site where the capsule was buried next to the Fountain Pool
has been marked by a plaque and will be reopened at the resort’s 50th birthday in 2041.
The establishment has recently unveiled its completely renovated two presidential suites and
introduced the Unforgettable Events and Experiences series.
Aspen
Celebrates
New W Gem
he Peninsula Beverly Hills’ dining
outlet, The Belvedere unveiled
its new interiors and reinvented
menu following an extensive
four-month remodelling project.
Building on the property’s 20-year history,
the re-imagined menu now features
Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus
on locally-sourced ingredients and wildcaught seafood.
The restaurant’s bright and spacious
atmosphere serves as the backdrop for a
unique art collection featuring some of the
world’s most renowned contemporary artists.
“After 25 years as a Beverly Hills classic,
we have revitalised the restaurant with
a fresh new look. The Belvedere is now
truly a restaurant for everyday dining and
special occasions,” said Offer Nissenbaum,
managing director, The Peninsula Beverly
Hills.
Renowned Caribbean Resort to Undergo
Restoration
H
ailed as one of the world’s
most prestigious ski resorts,
Aspen, US, will welcome
W Aspen and The Sky
Residences at W Aspen in
2017.
“As one of the most stunning and vibrant
year-round resort towns in the world,
Aspen is a destination that has long
been on our wishlist,” commented on the
development Anthony Ingham, global
brand leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “We
are thrilled to bring the W lifestyle to
Aspen while simultaneously reinventing
the traditional notion of an alpine
escape.”
The modern day mountain chalet will
boast 88 guestrooms, including six
suites, plus 11 W-branded residences,
an expansive outdoor patio and a
1,114m2 rooftop bar and pool overlooking
the mountains.
MARCH 2016
Rosewood
Little
Dix Bay
Four Seasons
Resort
Maui at Wailea
R
osewood Little Dix Bay in the British Virgin Islands will begin a complete renovation on May 01,
signifying the most substantial beautification project since it was founded over 50 years ago.
The refurbishment will include the redesign of the resort’s guestrooms and suites, its three
restaurants and overall enhancements to the landscaping.
The property will close for approximately 18 months and reopen towards the end of 2017.
“This renovation is a testament to Rosewood Little Dix Bay’s commitment to providing unmatched luxury
accommodations, the highest level of service, and the modern amenities that appeal to today’s luxury global
travellers,” said Edward Linsley, managing director, Rosewood Little Dix Bay.
17
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
TRANSPORTATION
AMERICAS
Burgess Welcomes ATALANTE
ATALANTE
S
et to sail the Caribbean this winter season, the 38.7m yacht, ATALANTE joined Burgess’ global charter fleet.
Built by Claasen Shipyards in 2015, the vessel combines the classic beauty derived from the 1930s with advanced performance. Aesthetics
aside, ATALANTE confidently pleases as a charter boat while still boasting the capacity to expertly perform in cups and regattas.
Built with competitive racing in mind whilst upholding guest comfort, the latest addition is hailed as a true yachtsman’s favourite, featuring
three cabins to accommodate six guests, ample deck and lounging space, chic interior, modern equipment as well as an experienced crew of
four to take care of all requirements.
Enterprise Widens High-End
Offering
Iconic Ocean Liner Turns
into Luxury Ship
C
rystal Cruises plans to restore SS United States, America’s
flagship which sailed the ocean in the 1950s-1960s, to its
former glory.
The company aims to bring the vessel into compliance with
the latest standards and return her to oceangoing service. In
order to transform it into a luxury cruise ship, SS United States will have
to be extensively rebuilt to meet over 60 years of new maritime rules and
shipbuilding practices. The modern United States by Crystal Cruises will be
an 800-guest-capacity vessel, featuring 400 luxurious suites with dining,
entertainment, spa and other exclusive amenities.
XOJET Celebrates 10-year
Anniversary
E
nterprise Rent-A-Car is now giving more drivers the chance to get
behind the wheel of a Maserati, Jaguar, Mercedes or other luxury
vehicles.
In the past six months alone, the company opened seven new Exotic
Car Collection locations, including its first branch in Canada, offering
one of the largest selections of premium, high-end rental vehicles from top
manufacturers.
“This rapid growth is evidence of the strong demand we continue to see for
luxury rentals,” said Brice Adamson, senior vice president, Enterprise Holdings.
18
X
OJET commemorated a decade of putting passengers first,
by announcing record results for 2015 with a 41 percent
increase in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and
amortisation and a 14 percent boost in new programme sales.
The private jet charter expert continued to expand its
lifestyle offerings throughout the year, with the addition of key partners
in sports and hospitality, including NBA champion Golden State Warriors
and San Francisco-based concierge services firm IfOnly.
Over the next months, XOJET aims to refine its product portfolio with a
new and improved Elite Access programme, offering access to its core
fleet and select partner fleets.
MARCH 2016
THE REGION IS IDEAL FOR RELAXATION AND TALISE OTTOMAN SPA AT DUBAI'S JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY KNOWS HOW TO DO IT BEST
MIDDLE EAST
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
ACCOMMODATION
MIDDLE EAST
St. Regis to Debut on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah
S
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced The St.
Regis Dubai, The Palm, the fifth property to fly the brand’s
flag in the UAE.
Owned by Dubai master developer Nakheel, the hotel
will be part of The Palm Tower, a 52-storey mixed-use
luxury development, and the centrepiece of the emirate’s famous
Palm Jumeirah.
Due to open in 2018, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm will feature
289 rooms and suites, spanning the first 18 floors of the tower,
two swimming pools, including what is hailed as one of the
world’s highest infinity pool on the 50th floor, 210m above ground,
bordering all four sides of the building for a 360-degree view of
Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.
The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
New Luxury Concept at Burj Al Arab
D
ubai’s Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is introducing North
Deck, an expansive outdoor leisure concept.
Due to be unveiled in the second quarter of the year,
the 10,000m2 private luxury deck will fan 100m out
into the Arabian Gulf and will accommodate 32
cabanas, 400 sun loungers, a 612m2 water pool, a 828m2 salt
water pool, a restaurant and a bar.
“As a hotel we are dedicated to surpassing guest expectations
by providing the ultimate Arabian hospitality experience and we
have no doubt that North Deck will do just that,” said Anthony
McHale, general manager, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
North Deck
20
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
MIDDLE EAST
ACCOMMODATION
New Four Seasons Comes to Abu Dhabi
Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island
L
ocated in an urban community in the heart of the UAE’s capital city, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island will start welcoming guests on May 08.
Inspired by the city’s modern Arabic aesthetic, the 34-storey glass tower will house 200 units, three restaurants and lounges, two ballrooms, a rooftop
poolside terrace, as well as a spa and fitness complex.
“Our mission is to provide a thoughtful, personalised experience to each of our guests, whether it is a productive business trip or a day spent rejuvenating
at our spa, a fun-filled family holiday or an enjoyable meal with friends,” commented Sam Ioannidis, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al
Maryah Island.
Voivenel:
Rethinking Luxury
N
ew luxury is all about simplicity,
according to Laurent Voivenel, CEO,
Hospitality Management Holdings,
who spoke at the recently-held
Global Hospitality Summit in Dubai.
“People are moving away from the bling factor,”
said Voivenel, adding that a pillow menu,
gold-plated bathroom fixtures and plush rooms
will not be able to woo the next generation
of the world's wealthiest clientele as their
expectations are different and much harder to
please.
“The new generation has grown up in the age
of technology, social media, instant access,
the proliferation of global consumer brands,
affluence and conspicuous consumption –
hence they crave an alternative to traditional
luxury hotels. Therefore, it is time for our
industry to evolve and adapt,” concluded
Voivenel.
22
Jumeirah to Run Marina Gate
J
umeirah Group signed an agreement with Select Group to manage 508 properties
within Marina Gate, hailed as the gateway to Dubai Marina.
The company will bring its luxury hospitality experience to the third and final tower
within the development under its Jumeirah Living brand. The design-led luxurious
destination will include 104 serviced apartments, 389 branded residences and 15 villas
and will also offer an exclusive range of facilities and amenities, including a temperaturecontrolled infinity pool, a dual-level gym, a lounge and a business centre.
Jumeirah and Select Group sign Marina Gate agreement
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
MIDDLE EAST
DISCOVER: QATAR
EMPORIUM WITH CHARM
With strong foundations in a thriving economy, a young population and a maturing customer base, Qatar
boasts an increasing number of exclusive retail outlets, making the country one of the Middle East’s most
desirable shopping destinations.
RITA KASZIBA WRITES
H
ome to the third-highest density of millionaires in the world, Qatar
has carved a niche for itself as one of the most exclusive Arab
countries where deep-rooted traditions and modern trends coexist.
“Qatar is the jewel of the Arabian Peninsula. With its robust
economic growth over the years, the national has always been in
the global spotlight,” stated Ibrahim Bitar, managing director, Salam Bounian,
the company behind The Gate Mall, noting that what makes the country unique
is that despite the advancement in market trends, it has stayed true to its roots.
24
“Shopping in Qatar is nothing less than a rich cultural experience for visitors,
who want to explore [...] this dynamic nation,” asserted Bitar.
Given the fact that according to the World Bank, the Gulf state is among the
world’s wealthiest countries per capita basis, it comes as no surprise that
Qatar’s profile as a shopping destination is rising apace.
The Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy sets a clear path of development for
the industry, which, besides culture, business and sport travel, also promotes
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
MIDDLE EAST
DISCOVER: QATAR
urban experiences such as shopping, dining and indoor entertainment.
The main targets of the retail sector are the middle- and high-income
expatriates and Qatari nationals, thus, the rise of high-end brands over the years.
As Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) pinpointed, the country offers a wide range of
options for shoppers from elegant air-conditioned centres to traditional souqs,
providing everything from top international brands to bargain collectables. This,
coupled with the destination’s high-end accommodation offering, extensive
dining options and family-friendly atmosphere make Qatar a preferred location
for visitors from both within the Gulf region as well as worldwide.
SHOPPERS’ HAVEN
Visitors to Qatar are treated to extensive shopping options from the moment
of their arrival up until their departure thanks to the state-of-the-art Hamad
International Airport (HIA)’s duty free area.
Spanning more than 25,000m2, Qatar Duty Free features over 100 retail outlets,
including many leading brands, rivaling the world’s leading department stores
and establishing the hub as a shopping destination in its own right. A visionary
new travel retail experience, the emporium offers a selection of bespoke
concepts, along with a number of art installations.
“HIA prides itself on being an innovative exhibition space,” explained Badr
Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer, HIA, describing the terminal as a
public space that welcomes millions of people every year, hence, an ideal space
to interact with art.”
Once in Doha, Villaggio welcomes visitors with a wide array of shopping and
entertainment options. From gondola rides, reminiscent of those in Venice, to
the Via Domo luxury area and luxury cinemas, it is a destination in its own right.
Adding to its already impressive offering, the centre is now gearing up to unveil
its extension with a range of new brands.
The introduction of new outlets comes in response to the growing demand. As
Bitar revealed, at The Gate Mall for example, since its launch in 2011, annual
footfall have showed significant increases year after year.
“We receive a great number of visitors from across the region, who are intrigued
by the exclusive brands our mall houses,” explained Bitar, further divulging that
in order to meet the preferences of shoppers, the management has carefully
handpicked a selection of the finest designer labels in the world and is
constantly in pursuit of new names.
Where there is demand, there will be supply, and demand is certainly present
considering that according to a BCG report, the number of households in the
country with private wealth of over USD1 million and above increased 3.7 percent
in 2014, and by 2019, this figures is expected to surge 4.1 percent, creating a
large market for the retail sector.
26
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
MIDDLE EAST
DISCOVER: QATAR
Arrive and Depart in Style at HIA
> 25,000m2 of prime retail space with designer labels
> the check-in and retail areas could accommodate 10 wide-body
aircraft
> 13 lounges with three more coming up
> contemporary airside hotel with 200 rooms
> top of the line wellness facilities with two squash courts, a 25
metre-long swimming pool, spa and more
> five-star facilities to ensure one of the world’s most luxurious
airport experiences
In light of these, it comes as no surprise that another gem is already rising
in the heart of Doha. The epitome of pure luxury, Al Hazm aims to redefine
the meaning of high-end shopping by omitting facilities commonly found at
other such locations, including food courts and franchise chains, and instead,
focussing on customised services and top luxury brands.
Spanning over 105,000m2, Al Hazm is also an architectural marvel that mirrors
the features of Milan’s famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Another much-anticipated project is the QAR5.4 billion (USD1.48 billion) Mall
of Qatar, hailed as the first entertainment mall of its kind in the region, which,
according to Rony Mourani, general manager, Mall of Qatar, will be a worldleading shopping and entertainment destination. Spread over 500,000m2 of
total built up space, with a gross leasable area of 256,000m2, the destination is
expected to host an estimated 20 million visitors in its first year upon opening
in August.
As Mourani disclosed, the mall will feature a number of luxury labels along with
popular high-street brands, many of which will be new to the region, as well as
what he described as one of the most innovative entertainment offers in the
Middle East.
“Mall of Qatar is definitely taking the notion of shopping centres to a different
level in terms of accessibility, parking, design, circulation and convenience,”
claimed Mourani, adding that the destination will boast a full offer for all types
of clientele.
Must-visit
Apart from its ever-growing portfolio of shopping malls, Doha is also
home to one of the Middle East’s most enchanting traditional souks. From
traditional garments to spices and handicrafts, as well as enchanting
boutique hotels, Souq Waqif is a must-visit.
28
“All in all, when you look at the product offering that we are providing, it will
simply be one of the best malls in the world when it is launched, that will
compare to no other in Qatar,” stated Mourani.
Leveraging the country’s extensive range of high-end outlets and the evergrowing popularity of shopping tourism, QTA works to promote the destination’s
shopping and dining offerings through various events, such as the Qatar
Summer Festival and the Qatar International Food Festival with the latter one
being extended into a week-long programme this year, taking place at the end
of the month.
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
TRANSPORTATION
MIDDLE EAST
New First Class Lounge
in Abu Dhabi
New Jewel for Qatar
Executive
Q
atar Executive, Qatar Airways’ corporate jet division, revealed
its new Gulfstream G650ER.
Hailed as the largest and fastest civilian jet in the world,
Gulfstream G650ER is one of the most sought-after business
airliners thanks to its range, cabin technology and comfort.
The aircraft is the first of Qatar Executive’s order for up to 30 business
jets, including the all-new G500 and G600, for which the airline will be the
global launch customer.
Etihad Airways Premium Lounge in Abu Dhabi
E
tihad Airways is planning to open a new First Class Lounge
at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Terminal 3 in May, for the
exclusive use of First Class, Etihad Guest Platinum and Etihad
Airways Partners Platinum guests.
In addition, passengers enjoying the airline’s The Residence by
Etihad offering will also benefit from access to the facility, which has been
described by Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways,
as the jewel in the crown of the carrier’s global lounge portfolio.
“We are confident that it will deliver a product and service which is as
highly acclaimed as it is in flight and look forward to unveiling its many
unique features with great pride,” claimed Baumgartner.
Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, (left) welcomed the new aircraft
The Oberoi Philae Brings Luxury to the Nile
The Oberoi Philae, Luxury Nile Cruiser
30
T
he Oberoi Philae, Luxury Nile Cruiser,
Egypt is set to sail between Aswan
and Luxor, offering four- and six-night
itineraries.
The ship will boast 22 cabins and
suites, a restaurant featuring a variety of culinary
options, an upper deck with a swimming pool, 24hour fitness centre, spa, bar, cigar lounge, dance floor
and a state-of-the-art movie theatre.
Mahmoud Nourelden, boat manager, The Oberoi
Philae, Luxury Nile Cruiser, commented, “The luxury
Nile cruiser will offer the discerning traveller an
oasis of tranquility with service which is warm,
intuitive and personalised.”
MARCH 2016
MARCH 2016
31
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
BITS OF BLISS
MIDDLE EAST
Exquisite Dining Service at
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
Riyadh to Welcome Luxury
Labels
M
ajid Al Futtaim plans to invest SAR14 billion (USD3.73 billion)
to develop two shopping centres in Riyadh, which will see a
series of luxury brands as well as entertainment and leisure
experiences come to the Kingdom.
In the northern side of the capital, Mall of Saudi will be the
country’s first fully-integrated lifestyle destination, with a total land area
of 866,000m2 to include shops, restaurants, residential units, offices, luxury
hotels, serviced apartment buildings and one of the world's largest indoor
snow parks.
The eastern part of the city will welcome City Centre Ishbiliyah, which will
cover over 100,000m2 of gross leasable area and will feature 250 stores, a
food court and an entertainment complex inclusive of Magic Planet.
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
T
he Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has launched a new off-site
catering division, offering guests a refined dining experience.
To ensure a memorable evening, the team includes butlers for a
seamless arrival; culinary experts to execute the most elaborate
menus; servers and event managers for the smooth flow of the night
as well as housekeeping support during and after the event.
As Robert Zellner, director of catering and conference services, The RitzCarlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, explained, the aim is to bring the full RitzCarlton experience to the guest’s venue of choice.
Riyadh
Enhanced Shopping Options at Jumeirah District
Opening ceremony of The Mall
32
T
he Mall, a new shopping, leisure and
entertainment centre, has officially opened
its doors in Dubai’s Jumeirah district.
The AED400 million (USD109 million)
retail precinct, located across from Burj Al
Arab, adds to the redevelopment of Jumeirah’s façade
and debuts new fashion brands, innovative cafes and
restaurants as well as amusement options.
The 7,500m2 destination boasts 66 units, including
seven kiosks in total, and houses some of the leading
names within the food and beverage industry along
with a kid’s entertainment concept, financial services
as well as a government office to ensure guests’
convenience.
MARCH 2016
NOT MANY PLACES EXUDE THE MEDITERRANEAN AURA BETTER THAN THE GREEK ISLANDS
EUROPE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
ACCOMMODATION
EUROPE
Luxury at the Fingertips at SLH
S
mall Luxury Hotels of the World
(SLH) launched a new iPhone
application that reflects the
company’s contemporary new
brand positioning with a clean and
easy-to-navigate interface.
The tool is designed to match independently
minded travellers with the luxury brand’s
collection of over 520 hotels around the
world.
The hotelier has seen a rise in mobile
activity over the last 12 months driven by a
49 percent increase in visits to the mobile
site and a 71 percent boost in reservations
made via mobile. In response to growing
interest, the app was completely redesigned
to include new features to make customer
interactions as quick, simple, informative and
user-friendly as possible.
Beyond the
Boundaries of
Flavour with
Kempinski
F
alkenstein Grand Kempinski and Villa
Rothschild Kempinski in Königstein im
Taunus, and Hotel Atlantic Kempinski
Hamburg, Germany all offer a diverse
gastronomic spectrum at their
restaurants these months for quality-conscious
flavour enthusiasts.
Gourmet cuisine and more is offered at a wide
variety of events, be it a barbecue with views
of Frankfurt’s skyline or a gourmet summit with
Michelin-starred chefs at live cooking stations in
the Rothschild summer residence.
“Delighting local guests with our cuisine is what
we particularly want to achieve with our wide
ranging events,” stated Stefan Massa, general
manager, Falkenstein Grand Kempinski and Villa
Rothschild Kempinski.
Tivoli Lures Visitors to
Denmark
Bentley Services at Champneys
A
s part of Tivoli Hotels & Resorts’ strategy to attract more
tourists to Copenhagen and meet the growing demand of
travellers desiring luxury experiences, the company is set to
expand its Nimb Hotel by 2,000m2.
The enhancement will form part of Tivoli Corner which will
feature more than 20 new luxury suites and a roof terrace boasting a heated
pool, restaurant and bar.
The hotelier is entering into a strategic partnership with Holckenhavn
Castle, a Renaissance edifice on the island of Funen, in which both
organisations will offer unique experiences.
Holckenhavn Castle
S
pa and resort operator, Champneys has taken the luxury experience a
step further with the introduction of transfer services by new Bentleys.
Guests visiting the company’s establishments can now travel
in style to their chosen destination with the assistance of a
Champneys driver.
The wellbeing expert’s portfolio currently includes four spa resorts across
England.
34
MARCH 2016
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
PICTURE: GREECE
EUROPE
JUST LIKE THAT
Where does true luxury come from if not from the feeling of being treated as someone special and
unique? Greece has a way to do just that and there is no secret to it; it is just natural.
MARIA KAZELI WRITES
S
ome 16,000km of coastline, 6,000 islands and islets as well as
a plethora of mainland destinations, a rich cultural heritage and
a well-established tourism industry give Greece a competitive
advantage against other locations in the Mediterranean, making it
one of the best luxury travel destinations in the world, according to
Yannis Petrakis, complex director, sales and marketing, The Romanos, a Luxury
Collection Resort and The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino.
More than half of all tourists visiting Greece opt for the country for its sunny
weather and serene beaches. As the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE)
revealed, out of these, 57 percent are of a higher household income. The
destination attracts travellers from Germany, the UK, Russia, France and Italy;
markets that are among the world’s top 10 spenders, as per the World Tourism
Organization. Additionally, SETE disclosed that the highest increase in arrivals
by air to Greece in 2015 was recorded from the US.
36
Greece is a favourite among Americans corroborated Nikos Levitis, director
manager, Windmill Villas, Santorini. “The most traditional luxury travellers are
considered to be the US citizens but in the last decade, there was a rise of
Central and Western European luxury travellers, along with an impressive rise in
the number of Asian luxury travellers in the last five years,” explained Levitis.
Anneta Svoronou, cluster director, sales and marketing, Hotel Grande Bretagne,
a Luxury Collection Hotel Athens and King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Athens, confirmed that the US has traditionally been the main feeder market
for the luxury segment, driven by individual leisure tourists visiting Athens,
Mykonos and Santorini or cruising around the Greek islands.
“There is also an upcoming trend for visitors from Central and Latin America
such as Mexico and Brazil as well as India and China but at a much smaller
scale,” added Svoronou.
MARCH 2016
PICTURE: GREECE
EUROPE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
A NATURAL CHOICE
Nowadays, lavish villas, boats, bars and restaurants can be created in various
places around the world, Elena Papanicolaou, CEO, flymetothemoontravel,
observed. However, as she said, in Greece it all comes naturally, with the country
boasting thousands-year-old history, culture, traditions, arts, favourable weather
and outgoing, hospitable people – something that cannot be reproduced.
The cosmopolitan atmosphere, bespoke services, ideal climate conditions and a
proven expertise in tourism for more than 60 years make the country stand out,
according to Kalia Konstantinidou, director of sales and marketing, Vedema, a
Luxury Collection Resort, Santorini and Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel.
Greece's main quality characteristics is its natural beauty, the architecture of
each destination and above all, the people that are by nature hospitable, agreed
Yiannis Daktilidis, general manager, Petasos Beach Resort & Spa.
With perceptions constantly changing, nowadays, luxury travel is more about
the overall experience rather than just high-end services and amenities, and
it is linked to escapism, authenticity, and uniqueness that cannot easily be
replicated, posited also Iossif Parsalis, managing director, Marketing Greece.
The feeling of lavishness is created with ease in Greece where guests can enjoy
a sense of immersion, while connecting with the destination and its people, Mina
Agnos, president, Travelive, explained. “For some travellers, a luxury experience
may be a private day charter on a catamaran from Milos with Captain Yianni who
will teach them to dive for sea urchins and spearfish. For another guest, the luxury
experience may be a 23m motor yacht charter through the Cyclades,” she said.
Analysing the concept of absolute hospitality, or as the Greeks call it, filoxenia,
George Moschotis, reservation manager, Astarte Suites Hotel, commented that
tight competition forced the industry to up its standards, and at the same time,
provide personalised services – a concept not far at all from the naturallyspringing Greek hospitality.
As Manos Vatzolas, director of sales, Ledra Hotels and Villas, explained, Greece’s
touristic progress occurred at a later stage compared to its neighbouring
countries, thus, the product is newer and more attractive and luxurious.
“The[...] scarcity of large resorts that led to smaller locally-owned
developments that invested in authentic services, experiential tourism and
boutique-style hospitality. It has been proven that this model is exactly what
the high-end market needs,” he suggested.
FOR THE FEW AND SPECIAL
Vatzolas went on to say that Greece can appeal to those who want to feel
special – and luxury travellers demand just that. “Offering tailor-made authentic
hospitality and designing products with a customer focus are key factors. The
lifestyle offered is also important. This could vary from being technology-savvy
to offering experiences that allow guests to interact with locals and understand
the culture,” Vatzolas elaborated.
Papanicolaou on the other hand, deemed that the absolute price in high-end
tourism is not what is important. “The universal tendency is for luxury travellers
to seek unique, authentic, quality experiences and they are prepared to pay for
the expert design and implementation of that,” she argued.
Agnos concluded, “Greeks] know how to make a guest feel welcome and offer
them a level of authenticity that they will not receive in other destinations. This
is where true luxury comes from.”
MARCH 2016
37
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
EUROPE
TRANSPORTATION
Citation Mustang Popularity
Mounts
Football Boosts
Aircraft Charter
Business
A
L
eading European air taxi operator, Globeair announced that demand for Citation Mustangs was on
the rise in 2015 with the company registering an overall year-on-year sales increase of 20 percent.
The growing interest in small-cabin aircraft, which followed a downsizing approach assumed by
many international travellers, supported the carrier’s results.
Resolute to maintain a stable growth, the Austria-headquartered operator completed the acquisition
of two Mustangs and has firm plans to expand its fleet to 20 jets by the end of the year.
Air France
Broadens
Luxury
Offering
ir Charter Service started
booking aircraft in earnest
in January for this summer’s
European football championship.
The company has already
clocked more than 20 airplanes through
its London office for the much-anticipated
games in France.
“As soon as the draw was announced […],
people were on the telephones, enquiring for
teams, supporters, sponsors and the media.
With new budgets coming into play [in
January and February], we are now seeing
a lot of those initial enquiries turning into
bookings,” commented Justin Bowman, group
CEO, Air Charter Service.
As Bowman further noted. having a
dedicated office in Brazil proved highly
helpful in helping the company obtain the
necessary permissions and slots at the
airports.
Land Rover Announces Unique Road Trip
A
ir France is now offering its
La Première long-haul travel
cabins to two additional
destinations from ParisCharles de Gaulle Airport;
up to four times per week to Abidjan,
Côte d'Ivoire and up to seven times per
week to Narita International Airport in
Tokyo.
By the end of the winter season, the
airline will have 30 Boeing 777 aircraft
equipped with the designer suites on
flights to 28 global destinations.
La Première guests can enjoy their
own suite adorned with thick curtains
to ensure optimum privacy, a highdefinition touch screen, hailed as
one of the largest ever seen onboard
an airplane, while their seats can be
transformed into fully-flat beds.
38
Range Rover SVAutobiography
L
and Rover and luxury travel partner Abercrombie & Kent introduced what is hailed as the trip of a lifetime.
Covering five continents, eight countries and nine of the world’s best hotels, the 21-day journey by a Range
Rover SVAutobiography promises unparalleled luxury with guests enjoying meals at world-renowned
eateries and indulging in bespoke activities, such as personalised fragrance making classes in Provence,
picnicking in the peaks of the Alps and tackling the greatest driving routes in the world, both on- and
off-road.
Mark Cameron, Land Rover experiential marketing director, Jaguar Land Rover, said, “From Europe to Australia, this
trip is all about the epitome of luxury but done so in a Land Rover way.”
MARCH 2016
AT YOUR SERVICE
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
Pop Off to Europe with
British Airways
Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Dionísio Pestana, owner, Pestana Hotel Group
Cristiano Ronaldo Invests
in Hotels
B
ritish Airways debuted its new champagne on shorthaul flights across Europe.
Customers opting for the airline’s Club Europe cabin
can now sip on the bubbly drink, which, as Troy Warfield,
director of customer experience, British Airways,
explained, was chosen following a blind taste test.
R
eal Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, hailed as one of the best football
players in the world, teamed up with Portuguese hospitality expert, Pestana
Hotel Group to launch four new boutique properties.
The projects, valued at some EUR75 million (USD81.9 million), will include
hotels in Lisbon, Madrid, Funchal and New York with a total of 400 rooms and
are expected to open this summer and in 2017.
Reinforcing his interest in the hotel sector, the two times FIFA Ballon d’Or winner also
invested in an upcoming luxurious hotel development in Monte Carlo.
Sweat It Out at the
Airport
American Airlines Brings
Luxury to the Skies
A
merican Airlines joined forces with four unique
brands to offer customers a new, elevated travel
experience.
Cole Haan, 3LAB Skincare, C. O. Bigelow
Apothecaries and Clark’s Botanicals are
collaborating to deliver this year’s newest amenity onboard the
airline in March.
“We are investing billions of dollars to customise and elevate
the travel experience, and we know our premium flyers are
looking for a refined and modern experience,” said Fernand
Fernandez, vice president, global marketing, American Airlines.
MARCH 2016
A
s an inseparable element of Finnish culture, saunas
are also available at the airports of Helsinki,
Kuusamo, and Kittilä.
In the capital, the facilities are situated between
gates 36 and 37, along with Finnair Lounge and the
premium lounge. At Kuusamo Airport, the sauna is housed in
Mosquito, allowing guests to enjoy views of the runway.
As Timo Rissanen, head of service concept, ground service, Finnair,
revealed, passengers have been both delighted and puzzled by
the offering. While Asians are usually rather reserved about the
unisex concept, American and British visitors embrace the idea.
39
TRAVEL TRADE LUXURY
EVENTS
Japan Popular with
Opulence Seekers
I
n 2015, the number of luxury travellers visiting Japan
increased 35 percent year-on-year, placing the country at
the sixth position globally, behind Australia, China, Ecuador,
Iceland and Greece.
Reflective of this trend, the fourth edition of ILTM Japan is
being held in Tokyo for the first time between February 29 –
March 02, with higher participation levels than ever.
“This is an important time for Japanese luxury travel. The
Japanese tourism sector is going from strength to strength and
the expanding inbound market will also offer a huge wealth
injection into the economy – an ideal platform for ILTM Japan
to facilitate luxury travel business and business opportunities,”
commented Alison Gilmore, senior exhibition director, ILTM.
Japan
Enhanced Space for
Luxperience Exhibitors
L
uxperience, to be held between September 18 – 21 in Sydney, is
celebrating its fifth anniversary by introducing the new Deluxe
Suite.
Attendees looking to enlarge their space can take advantage of six
square metres of room.
When reserving traditional options, exhibitors can also benefit from access
to leading travel designers, senior event producers from across the globe, as
well as a guaranteed equal mix of local and international buyers.
“Events by Luxperience is also making a welcomed return[…]. Providing
an additional dimension for luxury and high-end experiences, during our
three-day trade show, [it]allows MICE suppliers enhanced opportunities
for business,” commented Eric Lewanavanua, director of sales and partner
alliances, Luxperience.
EVENTS
Luxperience meetings
40
AMEX WORLD LUXURY EXPO
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
March 30 – April 01
INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA
Cape Town, South Africa
April 04 – 06
INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET ASIA
Shanghai, China
May 30 – June 02
MARCH 2016