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    Women’s Participation in Travel & Tourism Critical to Growth of Global Sector

    The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reiterated the importance of women’s engagement in Travel & Tourism to catapult its growth and achieve a thriving and resilient sector at the Women Deliver Global Conference, in Kigali, Rwanda.Speaking at the conference today, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, emphasised the importance of promoting women’s involvement in the sector and overcoming challenges for success in the business world.
    The event served as a platform to address the challenges faced by women in the Travel & Tourism sector and explore strategies to overcome them, aiming to inspire change and promote equal opportunities for women in the sector.
    The panel discussions shed light on the challenges faced by women in various aspects of the business, including barriers to entry, operational obstacles, and ecosystem limitations.
    The event underscored the vital role of mentorship in empowering young women and girls in business. Through networking, opportunities, and resources, mentorship programs unlock their potential for economic transformation.
    During her address, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “It is proven that companies that have 50% women in their leadership make more money. This makes even more sense in travel and tourism where women make the buying decisions on where to go on holiday.ADVERTISEMENT‘It also makes good sense to employ women in senior roles; why would you exclude access to 50% of global talent.
    “Rwanda has a great track record with a majority of women MPs in the Parliament. President Kagame addressed the Women Deliver, for the first time held in Africa, with real passion and a track record of gender equality.
    “Putting women centre stage in Travel & Tourism will ensure a better future for the sector and the global economy. Currently, more than half of the sector is made up of women.
    “By addressing the barriers and inequalities they face, we can unlock immense potential and drive sustainable growth.
    “The ‘Women Deliver’ event serves as a catalyst for change, bringing together sector leaders, policymakers, and advocates to work collectively towards a more diverse and prosperous future.”
    According to the global tourism body, women constitute approximately 54% of the workforce. Travel & Tourism provides accessible opportunities for women, but it also faces disparities such as lower pay and job security.
    These disparities were reflected in the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact, where a majority of the 62 million jobs lost in the travel and tourism sector were women’s jobs.
    WTTC urges both the public and private sectors to play their part in promoting women’s participation in the Travel & Tourism sector. It says governments should adopt policies that promote women in senior management, such as mandatory quotas for publicly listed companies and state-owned enterprises.
    The private sector should offer targeted professional development programs for women and create networking and mentoring opportunities.
    WTTC remains committed to advocating for gender equality, working closely with its members, governments, and industry partners to foster an environment where women have equal opportunities to excel, lead, and shape the future of the travel and tourism sector.

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    Proposed night flight ban at Brussels airport should be scrapped

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasized its opposition to a proposed ban on night flights at Brussels Zaventem airport. The proposal is premature as it ignores Belgium’s international obligations under the Balanced Approach to noise, including bilateral air service agreements and which is also enshrined in EU law.
    The Balanced Approach explicitly states that flight restrictions should be applied as a last resort, only after a detailed consultation and cost-benefit analysis, and when the noise benefits to be gained from other possible measures of the Balanced Approach have been exhausted.
    Moreover, any night flight ban at Brussels Zaventem airport would have a negative impact on the Belgian economy, and for air connectivity. Many of the flights that would be impacted by a night ban are cargo flights. Belgium is particularly strong in pharmaceutical exports which rely on air transport for rapid, time-and-temperature controlled shipment, in which Zaventem is a world-class leader. In terms of air connectivity, the airport facilitates a modest but important number of night flight connections. Among the routes that would be threatened by a ban are connections to Africa – one of the world’s fastest growing economic regions.
    “The noise concerns of the community around Brussels airport must be heard, but it is profoundly unfortunate that Minister Gilkinet has attempted to circumvent the Balanced Approach, which is the long-accepted and successful international process for managing airport noise impacts. The Balanced Approach specifically helps to mitigate noise while protecting the benefits of air connectivity for the economy and community both near the airport and across Belgium as a whole, not least in terms of thousands of jobs. It is vital that the government scrap this proposal and instead engage in a meaningful consultation with stakeholders,” said Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Europe.

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    WORLD FIRST 100% SAF TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT SETS SIGHTS ON TAKEOFF

    Virgin Atlantic and Rolls-Royce today confirm the successful Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend ground test on the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine. The test marks a key milestone in the project which will see the world’s first 100% SAF flight travel across the Atlantic from London Heathrow to New York JFK on a Boeing 787, set to take off on November 28, 2023.In addition to the test, fuel suppliers Air bp and Virent have been announced to supply the 60 tonnes of SAF to be used in the world first, supporting consortium research, testing and the flight itself. The SAF will be produced through the Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) pathway as well as synthetic aromatic kerosene (SAK) SAF at an 88% and 12% blend ratio.
    Virgin Atlantic is committed to finding more sustainable ways to fly on our mission to Net Zero 2050. Already operating one of the most fuel and carbon efficient fleets across the Atlantic, this flight builds on the airline’s 15-year track record for leading on SAF. Demonstrating that through radical collaboration, industry can deliver 100% SAF in today’s engine, airframes and fuel infrastructure for long haul flight.
    SAF typically delivers CO2 life cycle emissions savings of more than 70% whilst performing like traditional jet fuel. SAF has a fundamental role to play in aviation’s decarbonization and pathway to Net Zero 2050. Today, SAF represents less than 0.1% of jet fuel volumes and fuel standards allow for just a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines. The one-off Virgin Atlantic flight in November will demonstrate the potential of SAF as a 100% drop-in replacement for fossil fuel today.
    The realization of the 100% SAF transatlantic flight taking to the skies is a challenging task requiring cross industry collaboration and dedicated project teams working on the research, testing and operations to make it happen. The Virgin Atlantic led consortium, joint funded by the UK Department for Transport, includes Rolls Royce, Boeing, University of Sheffield, Imperial College London and Rocky Mountain Institute. The successful bench engine test is a key milestone, however further permissions and safety approvals are required for the flight to take off in November.
    Virgin Atlantic and the consortium will leverage the 100% SAF transatlantic flight to further SAF use, as well as addressing other environmental impacts of the sector. The project will demonstrate further reductions in CO2 from operational efficiencies, contribute to research and development into the non-CO2 effects of flying, and provide an end-to-end life cycle analysis of the flight. Any residual CO2 emissions from the flight will be mitigated using innovative carbon removals from biochar projects.ADVERTISEMENTShai Weiss, CEO, Virgin Atlantic, commented: “The 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel transatlantic flight will be a historic moment in aviation’s roadmap to decarbonization. Alongside fleet transformation, SAF is the most readily available way for our industry to decarbonize, but currently there’s not enough supply and without it and the radical collaboration required to produce it, we can’t meet our 2030 targets. We need UK government support to create a UK SAF industry to allow for every single flight out of the UK to operate with 100% SAF – if we make it, we can fly it.”
    Rob Watson, President – Civil Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, said: “We are incredibly proud that our Trent 1000 engines will power the first ever flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel across the Atlantic. Confirming that we have successfully completed the ground test of the Trent 1000 engine today, using the chosen 100% SAF blend, gives us increased confidence for the engine’s performance and operation ahead of the flight this November. The flight will represent an incredible milestone for the entire aviation industry in its journey towards net zero carbon emissions.”
    Aviation Minister, Baroness Vere of Norbiton, commented: “A year on from the launch of our Jet Zero Strategy, I’m delighted that Virgin Atlantic has confirmed the first ever transatlantic flight powered solely by Sustainable Aviation Fuel will take off this winter. Thanks to government funding, this flight will be a huge step towards net zero and showcase the potential of SAF – creating jobs and helping to grow our economy.”
    Andreea Moyes, Global Head of Sustainability, Air bp, said: “We are thrilled to be supplying Sustainable Aviation Fuel for the world’s first 100% SAF transatlantic flight. SAF is currently the most viable option to help us meet the industry’s net zero ambition and in the short and medium term it will be the only option for long-haul flights. Moving our industry and policy towards the use of 100% SAF is important as we work in collaboration with key stakeholders to help decarbonize aviation.”
    Dave Kettner, President & General Counsel, Virent said: “With Virent’s plant-based Synthesized Aromatic Kerosene (SAK) providing essential fuel components, this test showed that 100% drop-in renewable fuel is cleaner burning and will work seamlessly in today’s commercial airline engines. We’re honored to collaborate with Virgin Atlantic, Rolls-Royce and Air bp as these forward-looking companies lead the way in sustainable aviation. Virent shares their commitment to finding sustainable ways to fly, and we’re excited about the pivotal role our BioForm® SAK plays in making that goal a reality.”
    Sheila Remes, Vice President, Environmental Sustainability, Boeing said: “Boeing is proud to provide technical expertise and support for this testing as we gear-up for Virgin Atlantic’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner to make the first 100% SAF transatlantic flight. We look forward to continuing to work with our project partners on this journey, taking one more step towards a sustainable future of flight.”

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    Discover Dubai’s unforgettable summer adventures with the new #DubaiDestinations guide

    As part of the latest phase of the #DubaiDestinations summer campaign, a new interactive guide titled ‘Dubai’s Summer Gems’ was issued today by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office.
    Showcasing a comprehensive compilation of tranquil beach destinations, exhilarating water activities, and captivating waterparks, the new guide perfectly encapsulates Dubai’s distinctive summer ambiance and unparalleled experiences that distinguish it as one of the world’s most fascinating destinations during the warmer months.
    Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said: “‘Dubai’s Summer Gems’ guide unveils the best of what our city has to offer during the summer months. It serves as a fantastic resource that invites individuals to embark on a remarkable journey of discovery in this vibrant city. The guide highlights a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to every taste and interest. From serene beaches perfect for relaxation to thrilling water activities that ignite a sense of adventure, this guide captures the essence of Dubai’s summer charm.”
    The guide highlights numerous exceptional public beaches that provide ample facilities and activities for families and children. These beaches offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a memorable experience. Additionally, for those seeking thrilling water adventures, the guide features a variety of waterparks that guarantee a fun-filled day of aquatic excitement.The guide also includes a selection of other exhilarating water activities that cater to diverse interests. Some of these activities include the thrilling experience of parasailing, the mesmerising exploration of scuba diving, the scenic delights of boat touring, and the adrenaline rush of surfing.
    The latest phase of the #DubaiDestinations campaign invites international audiences to embark on a captivating journey of exploration and immerse themselves in the abundant offerings of Dubai. Set against the backdrop of an extraordinary summer, the campaign showcases Dubai as one of the world’s best city for both living and visiting. Running until the end of August, it will unveil the city’s top-rated summer experiences, highlighting its unique attractions that make Dubai a truly one-of-a-kind destination for the summer season.ADVERTISEMENTAs part of the campaign, Brand Dubai will continue to launch a collection of interactive guides, offering valuable insights into Dubai’s premier summer experiences.
    The #DubaiDestinations campaign is being rolled out over digital, broadcast, print and outdoor media to ensure it reaches large sections of local and international audiences. Brand Dubai is implementing the #DubaiDestinations campaign in cooperation with various stakeholders and the creative media community.
    The guide, available in English and Arabic, can be viewed on the following link: https://branddubai.ae/Dubai_Summer_Gems.pdf. More content and videos related to the campaign can be found on https://www.dubaidestinations.ae/.

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    Bahamas to Enter Agreements with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is leading a delegation of tourism officials to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for three days of meetings culminating in the signing of a multi-million-dollar contract with the Saudi Fund for Development to enhance economic tourism development in The Bahamas.“Over the last few years, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism officials have engaged in ongoing bilateral talks with government officials in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Deputy Prime Minister Cooper.
    “Our continuing communication led last year into both countries entering into a Memorandum of Understanding, and this visit will culminate with the cementing of this agreement through a contract signing for the construction of innovative business incubation centres around our archipelago,” he said.
    While in Riyadh, the Deputy Prime Minister will meet with His Excellency, Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and tour King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), formerly known as the Saudi Arabian National Centre for Science and Technology (SANCST), which is an independent scientific organisation that is responsible for the promotion of science and technology in Saudi Arabia.
    “The Bahamas and Saudi Arabia are creating unified strategy to share mutual tourism investment opportunities alongside day-to-day expertise in initiatives like sustainable tourism practices, management of tourism facilities and the sharing of insight and data,” added the Deputy Prime Minister

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    THG Announces Partnership with Mansion Entertainment Group to Develop American Heartland Theme Park

    THG, an independent creative agency specializing in creating awe-inspiring attractions for theme parks, museums, and leading brands, is proud to present its latest project, American Heartland Theme Park – providing attraction design, art direction and overall creative development. Working in collaboration with Mansion Entertainment Group’s Executive Producer of Project Development, Steve Hedrick, THG crafted the initial concept master plan and is currently engaged in show design of the park’s primary attractions. Additionally, the design team is collaborating with renowned design firms such as FORREC and Cuningham.
    Mansion Entertainment Group announced the project yesterday in Vinita, Oklahoma. The 1,000-acre development will feature the 125-acre American Heartland theme park, which is comparable to the size of Magic Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland® Park. The park will feature an Americana-themed environment with a variety of entertaining rides, live shows, family attractions, waterways as well as restaurant-quality food and beverage offerings. The theme park and resort are scheduled to open in fall of 2026.
    “I am so excited to embark on this extraordinary project, joining forces with this talented collection of teams,” said Erik Neergaard, Chief Creative Officer at THG. “Our collaboration brings together decades of expertise and creativity. We are honored that Mansion Entertainment Group is leading the development of this captivating and unforgettable destination. This is one of the first independent theme parks of this scale to be built in the US in many years.”
    THG lead conceptual design work for the new American Heartland Theme Park, combining the nostalgic charm of a traditional amusement park with modern-day elements. The new park features a collection of six distinctly American lands to welcome guests on a journey through the best of the American story. Families will find thrilling rides and heartwarming shows as they discover Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor, Liberty Village and Electropolis. This independent regional theme park will be located in northeast Oklahoma, just west of Grand Lake on Route 66 and promises to deliver an immersive and captivating experience for visitors.
    The brains behind the American Heartland Theme Park features some of THG’s most experienced and talented leaders. Erik Neergaard, Chief Creative Officer at THG, specializes in cultural-entertainment-fusion which has led to award-winning design experiences across the globe. Joining Erik on this project is Scott Sinclair, Executive Director Of Design. Scott Sinclair has served as lead designer on international projects, ranging from the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, Tokyo DisneySea, Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame in Seattle, to Abbey Road Studios. They are supported by THG’s amazing Pasadena-based award winning creative team. THG brings more than two decades of experience with projects from One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, the High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ in Las Vegas, and Beyond All Boundaries at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans.ADVERTISEMENTAs a world leader in experiential design, THG has worked with high-profile clients around the globe such as Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, DreamWorks, Sony, Paramount, Nickelodeon and more. Most recently, THG collaborated with Cedar Fair and Knott’s Berry Farm to transform Fiesta Village at Knott’s Berry Farm. THG transforms clients’ visions into uniquely creative attractions, exhibits, shows and settings. THG has additional projects in the pipeline for this year that further showcases its innovative approach and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.

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    The Adrenaline Rush Is Closer Than You Think at These European Theme Parks

    If you want to find some of the best rollercoasters in Europe, you don’t have to stay in the UK or even go to Disneyland Paris – France, Belgium and The Netherlands have some of the highest, fastest and most exhilarating rollercoasters and attractions you’ll find anywhere in Europe, and the fact that you can drive to them from Calais is all the more reason to hop on a ferry with DFDS and take your thrill-seeking to new heights – literally!
    Parc Asterix
    After Disneyland Paris, Parc Asterix is the biggest theme park in France, and while they may not be as well known in the UK, in France Asterix and Obelix are superstars.
    Originally a comic book series that first appeared in 1959, the series has spawned TV shows, cartoons films (both animated and live action), books, games, and of course, the theme park. France’s first satellite and even two asteroids are also named after the pair! The comics have been translated into 111 languages, making them the most widely translated comic book series in the world.
    But while Asterix and Obelix have been children’s favourites for decades, the park isn’t just for kids. There are rides for thrill seekers of all ages, from the classic carousel and miniature train to the Pegasus Express, which will suddenly throw itself into reverse on its perilous journey through the ancient cities of Olympia and Alexandria, and Discobelix, where you spin round and round and back and forth like a giant discus thrown by Obelix himself.ADVERTISEMENTIn 2023 Parc Asterix unveiled its newest rollercoaster, Toutatis – the fastest rollercoaster in France. Achieving speeds of 110kmph and standing 51m high, it also boasts the most airtime of any steel rollercoaster in the world – you leave your seat 23 times!
    The Parc is incredibly popular in France, attracting approximately 2.3 million visitors a year, and its 50 attractions and shows are spread over six areas or “universes”, each themed around a different Asterix and Obelix adventure. The park is the total package for a family holiday, with three hotels on site as well as several restaurants, cafes, and bars.

    Efteling
    Enter the enchanted world of Efterling, a magical theme park where fairy tales come to life. It is the largest theme park in The Netherlands and actually predates the original Disneyland in the US, making it one of the oldest theme parks in the world. It is such a popular theme park in Europe that only Disneyland Paris and Europa-Park in Germany regularly receive more visitors.
    Folklore and fairy tales abound in Efteling, where you can meet classic characters and get lost in stories from around the world. Explore the Fairytale Forest with Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel, encounter ancient tribes along Pirana’s river rapids, and dine with the Sultan on Fata Morgana – just don’t get thrown in the dungeon!
    But it’s not just for kids, the rides at Efteling challenge even the most adventurous of thrill-seekers. The Baron 1898 drops you down a 37.5m free fall at 90kmh, Python twists and turns round its double loop and tight corkscrew, and Vliegende Hollander takes you on a doomed ship’s eternal journey before splashing into the abyss.
    There are shows and live entertainment to enjoy, including a thrilling knight’s tournament and a spectacular water show, as well as chances to meet your favourite fairytale characters. You couldn’t enjoy everything Efteling has to offer in just a day, so stay overnight at one of Efteling’s excellent accommodations such as the glamorous Efteling Hotel or the idyllic lakeside holiday village of Efteling Bosrijk to make the most of one of Europe’s best theme parks.
    https://www.efteling.com/en

    Plopsaland
    Just across the border into Belgium is Plopsaland, one of the country’s most beloved amusement parks and themed around children’s favourite Maya the Bee. Suitable for kids of all ages, Plopsaland has 52 attractions, including seven rollercoasters.
    One of the highlights of the park is their rollercoaster The Ride to Happiness, the very first extreme spinning rollercoaster in Europe. Riders are catapulted to 90km an hour on the almost 1km ride as the cars rotate freely on the journey around the track – a bit like a waltzer and a rollercoaster combined! No two rides are the same, with the twists, drops and chicanes giving riders a different experience every time.
    For younger kids, there are other rides and rollercoasters that are a bit less high octane, but great fun nonetheless, such as De Draak and the K3 Roller Skater.
    Guests can stay in one of the 117 rooms and suites in the Plopsa Hotel, which has its own restaurant, cocktail bar and theatre, or the Plopsa Village, where guests can bring their own camping equipment and motorhomes or stay in one of the amazing chalets on site.
    Now that the summer heat is here, don’t forget to visit Plopsaqua, a huge Viking themed waterpark with flumes, swimming pools, and a wave pool. There are rides and activities for all ages, with special pools for younger children and toddlers, and if you’re feeling brave you can do the Sky Drop, a 20ft freefall slide into the pool below. There’s even a sauna and jacuzzi if you want to treat yourself to a bit of much needed relaxation.
    https://www.plopsalanddepanne.be/en

    Parc Bagatelle
    Parc Bagatelle in Merlimont is in the heart of an area that is perfect for holidaymakers, especially those with young children. The nearby town of Berck-sur-Mer has a fantastic Blue Flag beach with excellent beach activities for adults and kids alike, and a the town itself has plenty of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants along the seafront that make it surprisingly reminiscent a British seaside town.
    Parc Bagatelle is an excellent amusement park for kids of all ages, with rides that have been designed for toddlers upwards. There are gentler rides for the younger children, and more exhilarating rides for older kids and adults like Triops, which takes you round spins and loops on the second highest rollercoaster in France, and the 4G spins and exhilarating twists and turns of Silver Wings.
    There are rollercoasters, dodgems, and a little train that tours the park for younger kids and anyone who might want a gentler ride, there’s even a petting zoo, a mini farm and a boating lake to enjoy, complete with rowing boats and pedalos.
    The park is set in the middle of the woods, and it has taken efforts to give back to nature with the farm and the boating lake. There is also a dedicated area known as Insect City, where a habitat has been created to allow insects to flourish. Visitors can learn about the different insects in the park and their vital role in the biodiversity of the area.
    There are restaurants, bars and shops to satisfy your hunger while you explore and enjoy the park, and plenty of areas to rest after all the excitement of the rides and attractions, with hotels and camping sites nearby for guests who want to make the most of the park.
    https://www.parcbagatelle.com/
    DFDS offers up to 30 crossings per day on its Dover to Calais service. Fares start from £68 each way for a car and four people. Browse a selection of fragrances, cosmetics and electronics in DFDS’ duty-free shops and save up to 50 per cent off UK high-street prices. Book at www.dfds.com.
    Upgrade your ticket to include access to the exclusive Premium Lounge with complimentary hot and cold drinks and snacks from £12 per person. Add Priority Boarding to be one of the first to board and disembark the ferry from £10 per car each way.

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    Angsana Introduces Heritage Collection: Hacienda Xcanatun and Riads Marrakech

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    Angsana Introduces Heritage Collection: Hacienda Xcanatun and Riads Marrakech

    To mark 23 years since its inception, Angsana, a brand under Banyan Tree Group, presents a curated portfolio of properties steeped in architectural heritage, history, and culture.
    Known as Angsana Heritage Collection, this brand extension offers intimate experiences and deep-seated stories that weave together past glory and present comforts.
    Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection
    The recently expanded Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection in Mexico is located just 15 minutes away from downtown Merida, the capital city of the Yucatan region known for its tropical rainforests and being the home of the ancient Mayans.
    During Mexico’s colonial period, haciendas – large rural estates – were the epicentre of the country’s economic and social life. Named after the Mayan word for “tall stone house”, Hacienda Xcanatun was first built to house and operate livestock in 1789. Soon, it became a prosperous henequén hacienda – henequén being the Spanish term for Yucatan sisal – the fiber of a maguey plant native to the region that became the main material for of fabrics, cords and textiles exported worldwide between the mid-19th to early-20th centuries.  ADVERTISEMENTIn the 1990s, Jorge Ruz Buenfil, the son of a noted archaeologist, and his wife Cristina Baker, transformed Hacienda Xcanatun into a hotel by restoring the architecture to its 18th-century grandeur.
    In 2020, Hacienda Xcanatun was acquired by Banyan Tree Group, under its Angsana brand, known for intertwining local chic with vibrant destinations. After two years of careful expansion with attention to detail, the resort unveils 36 brand new suites, in addition to the 18 historic suites that have been part of the original architecture for centuries.
    Each of the new suites features a harmonious blend of natural wood, leather, regional limestone (which lent the city of Merida its nickname “the white city”), and native pasta tiles traditionally found in henequén haciendas.
    The resort expansion also includes new recreational areas and wellbeing space: an Olympic-length swimming pool, a solarium with a poolside snack bar, a fully equipped fitness centre, and an Angsana Spa for guests to rejuvenate and renew in nature.
    Surrounded by four acres of private gardens and lush vegetation, Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection redefines the concept of a luxurious urban resort, where history and tradition meet contemporary sensibilities.
    Riads Marrakech, Angsana Heritage Collection
    Minutes away from the landmark Jemaa el-Fna Square, Riads Marrakech, Angsana Heritage Collection takes pride of place in Marrakech, Morocco, with six riads – large traditional houses built around a central courtyard – totalling 42 rooms and suites showcasing Moroccan architecture and design. 
    The six riads were originally family homes, known as dars, built in the traditional Maghreb habitat. Rectangular doors in varying sizes are built around a central square patio to regulate the temperature of the house during summer and winter. Dars were renamed to the more poetic riads (or “garden” in Arabic) and have remained immutable and quintessential in Morocco’s cityscape.
    Riad Si Said
    Built in the year 1860, Riad Si Said was built by a wealthy Marrakechi family in the Oriental style. The house was inspired by the nearby Bahia Palace, and meticulous effort has been made to preserve the design and décor for centuries. Riad Si Said features an airy courtyard garden with stunning zellij (handmade ceramic mosaic tiles on floors and walls), surrounded by three well-furnished lounges with fireplaces and a library. There are a total of six accommodations in this riad, including 3 suites and an Ambassador Suite, all facing the central courtyard.  Riad Si Said also houses an outdoor pool, roof terrace, and a solarium.
    Riad Blanc
    Named after its sugar-white interior courtyard, the intimate and elegant Riad Blanc was built in the 1970s and is reminiscent of the famous white villages of Andalucia in southern Spain. One of its most distinctive features is the duplex roof terrace – shaped like the sundeck of a cruise ship – along with Andalucian design inspirations of elaborate wrought iron railings and window grills, stained glass windows, potted orange trees, and a turquoise-tiled plunge pool. Riad Blanc features six well-appointed rooms and suites.
    Riad Bab Firdaus
    Guided by the theme of water, a revered natural resource in the deserts of Morocco, Riad Bab Firdaus (meaning “gateway to heaven” in Arabic) was built in the late 19th century, and features a stunning central courtyard ornamented with gabs (picked, honeycomb-shaped plasterwork) and tagguebasts (cornices of sculpted plaster) around its central columns. A discreet light well illuminates the basin fountain, and its vast terrace offers a spectacular view of Atlas Mountains.
    Each of the six rooms and suites are fitted with stucco walls, smooth tadelakt (waterproof lime plaster) and elaborate furnishings, a nod to the Tamazight culture of Southern Morocco. Riad Bab Firdaus also houses a Thai restaurant in the courtyard, a rooftop sun deck and Angsana Spa, which features a hammam with barrel-vaulted brick ceiling to enhance the mystery of the place.
    Riad Tiwaline
    This discreet riad tucked in a 14th century alley in the Riad Zitoune quarter offers complete privacy. Renovated in the 2000s, local architectural details have been preserved such as warm cedar woodwork, wrought iron latticework, and intricate Berber motifs, reminiscent of the towns surrounding Atlas Mountains: Azilal and Imilchil and the Todra canyon. Its five airy rooms decorated with traditional artifacts are certainly a feast for the eyes – also known as tiwaline in Arabic.
    Riad Dar Zaouia
    Meaning “a place of retreat” in Arabic, Riad Dar Zaouia was built in the 19th century on an old zaouia, a religious school. Situated in the heart of the old Medina (walled city), near the historic Bahia Palace and Dar Si Said Museum, it consists of 10 rooms and suites. With a large patio and skylight, Riad Dar Zaouia emanates a serene and convivial vibe, ideal for those seeking an intimate retreat in a refined and relaxed setting.
    Riad Lydines
    Located in the Kasbah, the aristocratic district of the medina, Riad Lydines offers seven stylish rooms opening onto a vast patio, a swimming pool, and a green terrace. Traditional craftsmen worked entirely with their hands to restore this unique house, hence, the name lydines, or “hands”. Riad Lydines is within walking distance to the Royal Palace and the Saadian Tombs.

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