More stories

  • in

    More than 40% of UAE residents are not getting enough quality sleep

    A recent sleep survey conducted by Premier Inn Middle East in collaboration with Silentnight Arabia, UK’s most trusted sleep brand, has revealed new insights into the sleep quality and habits of UAE residents. The survey, which polled more than 950 individuals ahead of Sleep Awareness Week from 10 to 16 March and World Sleep Day on 15 March, shows that more than 40% of UAE residents are not getting the right amount of sleep and can improve their sleep quality significantly.
    Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn Middle East, said: “Our survey findings underscore the massive opportunity for people to enhance their sleep quality. At Premier Inn, we are invested in sleep and understand the crucial role it plays in overall well-being. Through our partnership with Silentnight Arabia, we’re committed to providing our guests with cutting-edge sleep technology in our rooms and sleep tips to take home with.”
    Quality of SleepWhile the majority of respondents (80%) reported that they feel as though they get a good’s night of sleep with 56% sleeping 6 to 8 hours per night, a whopping 41% sleep less than 6 hours per night.
    Hannah Shore, sleep expert at Silentnight Arabia comments; “Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of good quality sleep per night, 6 hours is on the lower end. We must allow our bodies the right amount of time in each stage of sleep to fully recover – 5 cycles of 90 minutes per night. Deep sleep repairs the body physically whereas light sleep benefits the brain function and emotional processing.”
    “Alarmingly, more than 40% of respondents sleep less than 6 hours per night. This substantial percentage questions the accuracy of self-perceived sleep quality. While most respondents rate their sleep as good or excellent, a high number is not getting the right amount of sleep and could improve their sleep quality significantly.”ADVERTISEMENTSleep DisturbancesA third (32%) of respondents indicated that they suffer from an irregular sleep schedule. Shore explains: “A consistent sleep schedule ensures a good night of sleep. Irregular sleep patterns, like late nights and weekend lie-ins, lead to social jetlag, making Monday mornings much tougher.”Sleep can be disrupted by many factors; stress being number 1 in the survey (48%). “Stress triggers elevated levels of cortisol, which disrupts the production of sleep hormones. This response originates from our primal instincts: we only sleep when we feel safe.”
    Temperature and climate also scored high on the survey (36%). “Maintaining a slightly cooler core body temperature is crucial for good quality sleep. While airconditioning is common in our hot climate, its noise and air drying effect can disrupt sleep.” Interestingly, almost 80% of people report that they sleep best in winter due to naturally lower temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning.
    Using electronic devices before bedtime also ranks high on the list (26%). “They aren’t as bad as often thought. While excessive blue light exposure can disturb sleep, content like meditation, podcasts, or familiar TV shows can actually be soothing.”
    “Background noises at bedtime are beneficial, but they should be low in volume and have gentle tones to promote sleep. Noises like construction (25%) or traffic (24%) tend to alert us and cause wakenings.”
    Sleep Habits
    Sleep RoutinesAn effective wind-down routine helps the body and mind relax from the day’s activities. The most popular sleep routine among respondents is to watch TV before bed (35%). Shore elaborates: “This can be a great way to help your brain switch off from the day, as long as it’s something familiar and comforting, like a re-run of Friends.”
    Avoiding caffeine (34%) ranks second on the list. “Caffeine binds to brain receptors, telling us we’re awake. But if consumed too close to bedtime, its effects might linger due to its long half-life, which can last up to 10 hours! When opting for herbal teas and juices (18%), make sure they are caffeine free.”
    Evening routines should facilitate a decrease in body temperature. 23% of respondents actively lower the room temperature. “However, activities such as exercising (13%), hot baths and large meals can all cause spikes in our core body temperature, therefore we should avoid doing these too close to bedtime.”
    Listening to podcasts or music (23%), and reading a book (15%) are also popular hobbies before bedtime.
    Last thing before bed34% of people brush their teeth as the last thing they do before bed. “This can actually be quite stimulating, says Shore, with bright bathroom lights and strong minty toothpaste waking the body up again.”
    Checking social media before bed ranks second with 29%. “Having a quick glance or watching some random videos might help certain people switch off from the day. Set a timer so you don’t lose too many valuable hours of sleep time. A substantial 25% of people end their day by saying a prayer which compliments a calm and relaxing wind-down routine.”
    Going to bedThe majority of respondents (55%) reported going to bed between 10pm and midnight, while a significant number (27%) goes to sleep after midnight.“The time which we go to bed is unique to each of us”, explains Shore. “It depends on the circadian rhythm, our internal body clock, that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and chronotype; morning or evening person. Chronotypes may change, shifting towards later sleep in adolescense – this is why teenagers lay in bed all day – and towards more morning-oriented routines in later stages of life.”
    Waking upNearly half (47%) of the respondents wake up between 6am and 8am, and 36% between 4am and 6am. These wake-up times are most likely set by work and school schedules.
    The big driving force for waking up is the alarm clock (81%), followed by family members or roommates (30%), light exposure (27%) and bird song (7%). Other wake-up aids include the sound of a kettle boiling, the smell of breakfast, the body’s circadian rhythm, and the call to prayer.
    Shore comments: “If people had a more regular sleeping pattern, their body would have a natural time at which it wakes up. We shouldn’t turn all alarms off, however, waking up a few minutes before your alarm is a sign of a good sleep routine. Bright morning light also helps people to rise and shine as it supresses the production of melatonin making us feel more awake.”
    Hannah Shore’s Top 10 to sleep betterTV and devices: Tech isn’t always bad. If you are using a device before bed, use it in eye comfort mode to create calming sounds, listen to podcasts or breathing exercises. Music, pink and white sounds: Certain sounds can help you sleep such as ocean waves, rainfall and a buzzing fan.Airconditioning: Dry air from the airconditioning can lead to dryness within the skin, throat and nose which can increase snoring. Using a humidifier can help.Socks: Bed socks can increase the blood circulation which can help with cooling the body down. Earplugs: Invest in quality earplugs to block out construction and traffic noises if you live in an area prone to them.Sleep trackers: This a great way to monitor your sleep if used correctly.·      Pillows: Pick the right pillow to match your sleeping style: front and back sleepers require thin pillows, while side sleepers need thicker ones to support the gap between the ear and shoulder edge.·      Bright Light: Bright light at sunrise can easily wake you by halting sleep hormone production. Use blackout blinds, curtains, or an eye mask at home to block out this brightness.·      Work: Taking work to bed can overstimulate our minds, making it hard to switch off. If you must work in your bedroom, set up a dedicated workspace to create separation between work and sleep.·      Bed sharing: When sharing a bed, you’ll have to prioritise each other’s sleep. Separate mattresses, beds and bedrooms are more common than you think.
    For the complete overview of all sleep survey results, please click here. https://mena.premierinn.com/Admin/Content/UserFiles/Premier%20Inn%20x%20Silentnight%20Sleep%20Survey%202024.pdf
    At Premier Inn, we are all about sleep. Guests can rest easy at 11 hotels throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. For bookings, please visit premierinn.ae or call +971 600 500 503.

    Older
    Weeva Unveils Groundbreaking AI Integration at ITB Berlin, Revolutionizing Sustainability in Travel

    Newer
    Zayed International Airport Revolutionizes Passenger Experience with IDEMIA’s Biometric Solutions More

  • in

    Hylla Vintage Hotel Joins The Leading Hotels of the World as First Member in Southwest China

    Hylla Vintage Hotel has been inducted into The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), becoming the first property in Southwest China to join this exclusive network of luxury independent hotels.Nestled in the historic heart of Lijiang, a city renowned for its convergence of world heritage sites, the Hylla Vintage Hotel offers a unique gateway to the past. The hotel is situated at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the southernmost glacier in Eurasia known for its perennial snow. Embracing the textures of natural wood and stone, the property resides in Jietuolin, the original domain of the Muwangfu family, who led the Nakhi people. This location is steeped in history, a narrative beautifully captured in the Ming Dynasty chronicle, “The Travels of Xu Xiake.”
    The property is a testament to the area’s historical allure and scenic splendor, making it an exceptional destination for international travelers in search of distinctive experiences. With a commitment to respecting the natural environment and local traditions, the hotel fosters a strong connection with the spirit of “village community living”. Notably, Hylla Vintage Hotel has garnered several prestigious international accolades, including AHEAD, DEZEEN, LILA, and LI Awards, reflecting its appeal among both domestic and international audiences.
    Guests can immerse themselves in a bygone era within the hotel’s interiors, which features a meticulously curated collection of modernist furniture dating from the 1930s to the 1960s, alongside an eclectic mix of vintage furnishings, literature, artworks, and artisanal objects from around the world. This blend of historical ambiance and modern luxury positions the Hylla Vintage Hotel as a living museum of vintage culture, offering a deeply authentic and enriching travel experience.
    For more information and reservations,please visit https://www.hyllahotels.com or call 0888-5155555.

    Older
    Princess Cruises Installs Innovative Food Waste Biodigesters Onboard New Flagship: Sun Princess

    Newer
    GRAND WAILEA, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT, UNVEILS KILOLANI SPA More

  • in

    The Leading Hotels of the World Welcomes Six New Luxurious Destinations to Its Prestigious Portfolio

    Offering the largest collection of independent luxury hotels globally, The Leading Hotels of the World is pleased to welcome six new member hotels to its prestigious portfolio. This season’s collection includes five new hotel openings, demonstrating a boom in luxury hospitality openings worldwide. The openings include two new US properties, a new hotel concept in Madeira, a grand converted museum in Rome, and a collection of bungalows and casas just south of Tulum, Mexico.
    “The Leading Hotels of the World welcomes 2024 with an array of brilliant hotels joining the collection. We are delighted to welcome this outstanding group of new members to LHW, consisting primarily of recent openings.” said Deniz Omurgonulsen, Vice President of Member Experience, The Leading Hotels of the World. “This cohort includes LHW’s entrance into destinations such as Savannah, Georgia, and Tulum, Mexico, and further strengthens our presence in Europe. LHW is proud to champion independent hospitality and is excited to introduce new experiences to our curious travelers with these additions.”
    Discover LHW’s Spring Collection EUROPE
    The Reserve (Funchal, Portugal) NEW OPENING JANUARY 2024A new hotel concept with guest experiences at its core
    The Reserve is an exclusive hotel concept in Madeira, Portugal, situated within its sister property, Savoy Palace. The hotel encompasses 40 sea-facing rooms and suites on the top floors of Savoy Palace, all meticulously designed to deliver the utmost in comfort. The Reserve is host to a private members access and services team of dedicated GEPAs – Guest Experience Personal Assistants – who will ensure a seamless stay. Positioned near the main attractions of Madeira, The Reserve, beyond wellness and city access, offers guests elevated dining in the Jacarandá Club and private experiences from yacht tours to wine tastings. The Reserve guests benefit from all the facilities and services of the incredible Savoy Palace, from the Laurea Spa and four swimming pools to gardens, to beaches and numerous dining experiences.ADVERTISEMENTPalazzo Roma (Rome, Italy) NEW OPENING 2024A noble museum turned hotel in the capital
    Palazzo Roma is a three-floor museum turned contemporary and history filled hotel. Dating from the 16th Century, this historic building has been owned by several aristocratic Tuscan families and is a valuable heritage of the Roman nobility. Situated near the Spanish Steps, between Via del Corso and Piazza di Pietra, the property is adorned with coffered ceilings, original frescoes, timeless marble, and an outstanding original marble staircase. All 39 rooms and suites have been uniquely designed to the highest standards of contemporary luxury, while maintaining their original features. The spacious reception rooms and unique artwork pair with excellent service and attention to detail, making Palazzo Roma the perfect aristocratic hideaway in this vibrant city.
    Grand Hotel Alassio Beach & SPA Resort (Alassio, Italy)A long tale of elegance and hospitality on the Ligurian Riviera
    Founded in the 1897 and overlooking the grandest stretch of one of Italy’s best beaches, Alassio Beach & Spa Resort blends tradition with elegance and excitement. Catering to families, sport enthusiasts and art lovers, the property features a Kids Club, numerous active pursuits, a Talassio 4 Art collection and more. Placed perfectly on the Italian Riviera, the property offers historical tales from its previous life and weaves this culture into curated tours, sea excursions and magical moments for guests. For those looking to reset and recharge by the Ligurian Sea, the hotel’s private Grand Beach Club and Thalassio Medical Spa await.
    North America
    Case Chablé, (Tulum, Mexico)Beachfront luxury located on an untouched stretch of the Caribbean coast
    Nestled within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s largest protected areas – lies Casa Chablé. Just 22 miles south of Tulum, Casa Chablé offers a complete nature-immersive experience – with 12 acres of tropical jungle and a 656-foot-long beach. With only five bedrooms in the main villa and an additional five bungalows dotted along the beach, guests will experience a sense of unique remoteness and serenity. The interiors reflect local traditions and the walls are dotted with colorful textiles. Similar to its sister properties, Casa Chablé’s spa and wellbeing experiences are at the heart of the hotel’s offering. The spa features treatments and programs inspired by local traditions the ancient culture of healers.
    Hotel Bardo (Savannah, Georgia, United States) NEW OPENING FEBRUARY 2024Converted Mansion in the gardens of Forsyth Park
    Housed in a former Savannah mansion in the lush green gardens of Forsyth Park is Hotel Bardo – an urban resort and neighborhood clubhouse. Making its debut this year, the hotel features 149 rooms and suites, all comfortably chic. An 80-foot pool, cooking school, spa and sport club invite guests to customize their ideal experience. Saint Bibiana, the main restaurant, offers timeless glamor, impeccable costal Italian food, effortless energy, and cooking classes with the Executive Chef. Also featuring a member’s club, the property will add value to the neighborhood locals and guests alike. When traveling with children, guests can enjoy Camp Bardo, the property’s exciting Kids Club.
    The Fifth Avenue Hotel (New York, New York, United States) NEW OPENING DECEMBER 2023Restored gilded glamour in New York’s NoMad neighborhood
    Thoughtfully restored in the central NoMad neighborhood is The Fifth Avenue Hotel, offering 110 rooms and 43 suites across the mansion and glass tower buildings. Each room is designed with bold, dramatic prints, dainty romantic touches, and vibrant colors. Every corner of the hotel promises a unique kaleidoscopic experience, with eclectic sourced individual art and furnishings, including the three event spaces, hallways and lobby area. The property has introduced two new social and culinary gems to the New York City scene – The Portrait Bar and Café Carmellini. The Portrait Bar offers sophisticated cocktails in a cozy, wood-paneled retreat with an exceptional art collection, and Café Carmellini, conceived by Andrew Carmellini, marries traditional Italian and French cuisine with a classic New York twist.
    Guests can experience enhanced stays at these new members by joining LHW’s complimentary loyalty program, Leaders Club. Richer rewards and uncommon experiences await!

    Older
    La Festa Phu Quoc: A Tale of Amalfi Coast Romance Comes to Vietnam

    Newer
    GNTO to host 84 co-exhibitors in the Greek pavilion at ITB Berlin 2024 More

  • in

    Deutsche Hospitality rebrands to H World International

    Joint venture between Conduit House and H World International. To the left: Grant Healy, Chief Executive Officer Conduit House. To the right: Oliver Bonke, Chief Executive Officer H World International © Steigenberger Hotels GmbH
    Deutsche Hospitality, a well-known European hotel company with German roots, is rebranding to H World International to drive the expansion of its ownership group, H World, outside of China.
    All of H World International’s brands will be part of the H Rewards global loyalty program and online booking platform. The brand family includes Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, Jaz in the City, House of Beats, IntercityHotel, Maxx and Zleep Hotels. New to the international brand family is Ji Hotel, one of H World China’s fastest-growing midscale brands with the recently opened Ji Hotel Orchard Singapore as the first of its kind outside of China.“The rebranding to H World International is ushering in a new chapter of international growth, complementing our vast presence in China”, says Jin Hui, CEO of H World. “It is an important step towards our goal to become a world-class global hotel group, with one global team.”Oliver Bonke will serve as CEO H World International alongside the established executive leadership team of the former Deutsche Hospitality. Oliver Bonke and Choon Wah Wong, CFO H World International, will remain Managing Directors of the Steigenberger Hotels GmbH. H World International includes Europe, Middle East, India & Africa (MEIA), as well as Asia Pacific (APAC).“We are excited to bring all of our distinctive brands to key global markets. With our compelling value proposition for owners and investors, we will be able to offer our employees career opportunities across the globe and 218 million H Rewards members more choice – an even more attractive hotel portfolio, in more destinations, and across more brands”, says Oliver Bonke.
    Joint venture with Conduit HouseTo kick-start its growth in APAC, H World International has entered into a joint venture with Conduit House, a fully integrated hotel operator and hospitality asset manager in Asia, for pre-opening support, technical services and operations. Bonke continues: “We are encouraged by the prospects of partnering with Conduit House, which is run by industry veterans Grant Healy and Achim Lenders whose Asian expertise, relationships and networks will be hugely beneficial for our ambitious growth plans.”
    Five new signings across H World International’s growth regionsH World International just signed an agreement with Tantakitt Company Limited for the Montien by Steigenberger, Surawong Bangkok. Having recently finished a complete renovation, it will be the first Steigenberger hotel in Thailand and carry the brand as of July this year. The legendary and stylish hotel offers 475 rooms, combining timeless Thai style with a contemporary attitude. Furthermore, an agreement was signed with Tai Xiang International Co., Ltd. for the Maxx Huay Yai Villa, Pattaya, Thailand comprising 108 spacious, state-of-the-art villas and with an expected opening towards the end of 2025.
    In the MEIA region, the company recently signed an agreement for the new build Steigenberger Resort Byoum Lakeside in Egypt, adding to the existing 16 Steigenberger Resorts in the country. The hotel features 90 luxury rooms and is located about 90 kilometers southwest of Cairo, close to Qarun Lake. It is expected to open in late 2025. Earlier this month, H World International announced the opening of the IntercityHotel Bawshar in Muscat, Oman – the fourth IntercityHotel in Oman and sixth in MEIA overall.ADVERTISEMENTIn Europe, the Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts brand announced the addition of the renovated and historical Bielefelder Hof in Germany. Furthermore, the economy brand Zleep Hotels, of Danish origin, is on the rise with openings in Horsens, Denmark as well as Lausanne and Zürich, Switzerland. Agreements for two further Zleep Hotels were recently signed for the Zleep Hotel Bern, set to open in late 2025, and the Zleep Hotel Göppingen in Southern Germany, which is expected to open in 2026.

    Older
    TourReview ranks Germany as the number 10 top European destination More

  • in

    Choice Privileges Named Among America’s Best Loyalty Programs for Fourth Consecutive Year

    Choice Privileges, the award-winning rewards program of Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), has been named one of America’s Best Loyalty Programs 2024 by Newsweek and Statista. This is the fourth year in a row that Choice Privileges has been recognized on this list that assesses rewards programs on six criteria: ease and enjoyment; benefit; overall satisfaction; customer support; trust; and recommendation.
    The 2024 study, by Newsweek and Statista, centered around the results of an independent survey of more than 4,000 US customers who are members of loyalty programs across 41 categories of US retailer and service provider segments. In total, over 17,900 evaluations were analyzed, which resulted in the ranking of 266 winning programs.
    Over the last year, as part of a continued reinvigoration of the program after the integration with Radisson Rewards Americas, Choice Privileges has expanded rewards and opportunities for guests including:
    Launching two co-brand credit cards – the Choice Privileges Select Mastercard and Choice Privileges Mastercard – to offer travelers more ways to accelerate the amount of Choice Privileges points they earn while staying at participating Choice Hotels and on everyday spending like gas, groceries and home goods.Expanding Choice Privileges Experiences that members can redeem points for with the additions of NASCAR races, and more college football, basketball, baseball and hockey experiences.Diversifying the types of hotels Choice Privileges members can earn and/or redeem points with including Preferred Hotels & Resorts; PENN Casinos & Resorts; BlueGreen Vacations.Offering complimentary breakfast for Diamond status members at Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, and Park Plaza hotels.Choice Privileges members can earn points by staying at over 7,000 Choice-branded hotels across a diverse portfolio of brands in 46 countries and territories. Choice’s family of brands range from upper upscale and upscale, full service, boutique and resort-like hotels including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Cambria Hotels and the Ascend Hotel Collection, to midscale, economy and extended Stay hotels including Country Inn & Suites, Comfort, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Everhome and Mainstay Suites.
    For more information or to enroll in Choice Privileges, visit www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Revitalization in Melbourne Docklands: TFE Hotels to Operate Vibe Hotel Amidst Area Renaissance

    Newer
    Emirates Takes Flight at ITB Berlin: Showcasing Innovation and Commitment to Europe More

  • in

    Design Hotels™ Partners with Weeva to Drive Sustainable Practices in Independent Hospitality

    Digital sustainability management solution, Weeva, establishes conscious collaboration with forward-thinking travel brand Design Hotels to help its portfolio of independent hotels build data-led sustainability initiatives.
    Weeva’s innovative, integrated platform enables hotels to manage their sustainability in one digital system. By tracking, informing decisions and reporting on their commercial viability and environmental and social impact, these businesses can experience the myriad of benefits that come with running a sustainable operation.
    Designed by sustainable tourism experts, Weeva champions continuous improvement actions, backed by consistent data management, to boost efficiency, reduce wastage and, ultimately, support profitability and business resilience within the industry.
    Renowned for establishing partnerships that keep its member hotels ahead of the curve, Design Hotels™ is currently hosting an ongoing series of online workshops and virtual roundtables to connect its members with partners, industry experts, and each other around actionable insights and forward-thinking ideas and practices.
    The first of these conversations, hosted by Elin Kann, Director Sustainability & Culture at Design Hotels™, and moderated by Dr Andrea Ferry, Head of Sustainability at Weeva, focussed on the importance of developing an internal culture of sustainability. A key takeaway was:ADVERTISEMENT“If ‘vision’ is where you are going, ‘culture’ makes sure you can get there.”
    Weeva’s reporting tools can generate tailored Impact Reports for hotels to share with their guests, tour operators and other suppliers. Reports show metrics such as the carbon footprint per bed night or an overall view of a property’s impact. It’s not about being perfect, but rather quantifying goals and showing improvement. Using a system like Weeva helps streamline internal management, sharing the load between departments, from HR employee wellness surveys for to showcasing your community projects. It is also an invaluable data aggregator for those wishing to gain certifications.
    Julie Cheetham, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Weeva commented:
    “We’re so excited to onboard many of the Design Hotels member hotels into our system in 2024, giving them access to all our best-practice educational guides, suggested improvements and easy-to-understand tools and dashboards that track results in real-time.  The travel industry has long needed affordable, accessible sustainability technology to measure and improve operations for the benefit of profit, people and the planet – so it is wonderful to see our software being adopted by hotels of this calibre globally.”
    Stijn Oyen, Managing Director of Design Hotels™, said:
    “We are delighted to collaborate with Weeva to share the exemplary sustainability efforts and successes of our member hotels in transparent, measurable ways.  By utilizing Weeva’s data-driven, science-backed approach, our aim is to learn more about the impact our hotels have on the planet, and apply these insights to develop new, meaningful initiatives that guide them towards a more conscious, sustainable future.”

    Older
    Largest startup gathering in the Middle East, Web Summit Qatar, welcomes 15,453 to Doha

    Newer
    Spirit Airlines Receives FAA’s Prestigious Diamond Award of Excellence for Sixth Consecutive Year More

  • in

    Meyer Jabara Hotels Sets New Investment Course; Hires Ian McAuley as Chief Investment Officer

    To expand its portfolio and capital partner alliances, Meyer Jabara Hotels welcomes Ian McAuley as Chief Investment Officer. In this newly created position, McAuley will source acquisition opportunities, equity investors, debt financing, and third-party management contracts. His 30 years of extensive publicly traded and privately held real estate experience and hands-on hotel development, operations, and ownership expertise will set the course for continued growth and profitability.“Good things really do come to those who wait,” said Meyer Jabara Hotels President Justin Jabara. “Ian is the rainmaker we have been searching for – for well over a year. He spent his career raising capital from kitchen tables to Wall Street, co-founded a management company, operated hotels, and knows where the money is made. His breadth of experience is profoundly unique in this space. With Ian running the investment side of our business, we can focus more closely on operations, profitability and growth. We welcome him aboard.”
    McAuley will relocate from Toronto to the company’s office in West Palm Beach, Fla. Short term, he will focus on getting to know the people, culture, and operating practices that drive margins and reap investment returns. Midterm he will speak to the investment community about MJH’s vast differentiators and focus on securing sources of capital. Long term, McAuley will seek out capital partners that don’t know about MJH and introduce them to the company’s fundamental principles and buy/develop assets to add to the portfolio.
    “Meyer Jabara Hotels has been around for 47 years, and it’s my job to make sure the company is set up to thrive over the next 47,” McAuley said. “What excites me about this new role is there is no rush to monetize the assets or sell off properties; no gun to my head to get deals done. At MJ there is a different mindset to growth . . . find the right assets and capital partners, then bring MJ in to provide returns for investors. It’s a great marriage.”
    Exceptional Background
    Over the years McAuley has incorporated more than $2 billion in real estate transactions across North America. His extensive corporate finance experience with private equity and institutional capital partners includes more than 100 ground-up developments and acquisitions, along with several initial public offerings. He also has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of numerous international hospitality companies.ADVERTISEMENT
    Prior posts include Co-founder, CEO, President and Director of VM Hotel Acquisition Corp. where he was successful in raising $100 million at the company’s Initial Public Offering on the Toronto Stock Exchange; Canadian President of Aimbridge Hospitality where he more than tripled the number of Canadian hotel management agreements during his first six months; President of American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP; President and COO of Superior Lodging Corp.; Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of Royop Hospitality Corp.; and Co-Founder and Vice President of InnVentures Hospitality Corp.
                             
    McAuley is a graduate of the University of Toronto – ICD-Rotman Directors Education Program and holds a Dipl T Hospitality, and Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration degrees. He is a long-standing board member of Northern Vision Development LP, current board member and executive of The Musical Stage Co., former two-term director of the Hotel Assn. of Canada and was a board member of Hilton Hotels Advisory Board, Hallmark Properties Ltd., Airline Hotels and Resorts Ltd., and Theatre Calgary.

    “Timing is everything,” McAuley said. “Family owned and operated companies like Meyer Jabara Hotels that span three generations are the ones that are successful. I’m honored that they were not afraid to let a visionary like me in. It’s going to be a win-win-win for everyone. Now it’s time to get to work.”
    For more information on Meyer Jabara Hotels, visit www.mjhotels.com

    Older
    ITB Berlin and IPK International: Big global increase in outbound travel in 2023

    Newer
    Finalists announced for the 2024 European Arival TourReview Spotlight Awards More

  • in

    Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape Launches Exclusive Women’s Retreat With Beyond

    This exclusive retreat is a celebration of womanhood, crafted by women for women. The programme blends a holistic approach to personal empowerment and self-discovery with the serene natural splendour of Bali to nurture mind, body and soul. The retreat is led by two distinguished practitioners: Beata, a life coach and psychologist known for her expertise in guiding individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the empowerment to shape their reality; and Kimberley, a yoga and meditation expert who guides participants on a dynamic journey of inner peace, self-connection, and personal growth through movement and mindfulness practices.
    A curated tapestry of activities will include including mindset reframing, mind training and somatic practice.. The daily itinerary will include a curated tapestry of activities such as:
    Grounding VinyasaBreathworkIce Bath Restorative Yoga Jungle Trekking Fire Ritual Evening Meditation Canang Compass Soul Freedom JourneyNestled in the Buahan valley of Bali, Banyan Tree Escape is the perfect backdrop for this life-enhancing experience, directly engaging with nature in its unique no walls, no doors concept.
    Beyond is a digital wellbeing companion with a meticulously curated retreats programme, guided by distinguished practitioners applying its codified framework of eight pillars of wellbeing.
    A place on the seven-day Buahan Women’s Retreat starts from £4,600 based on two sharing.. The retreat includes: accommodation in a jungle pool; daily brunch, dinner and refreshments; roundtrip airport transfers; a pre-retreat wellbeing assessment call; daily group sessions and workshops; wellbeing activities; one massage and local Balinese cultural experiences.ADVERTISEMENTp >A further programme of retreats is planned for 2024/2025 with dates to be announced.

    To book, please visit https://escape.banyantree.com/retreat

    Older
    Ten Trending Destinations for 2024 Revealed by Kuoni in New Travel Forecast

    Newer
    Savour the Spirit of Ramadan at Ja the Resort More