Hotel, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest football players of all time, known for his incredible skill, speed, and precision on the pitch. But off the field, Ronaldo has also established himself as a savvy businessman, with a number of investments in various industries.One of his most successful ventures is the Pestana CR7 hotel chain, a collaboration with the Pestana Group, which has properties in several cities around the world.
The idea for the Pestana CR7 hotel chain came about when Ronaldo and the CEO of the Pestana Group, Dionisio Pestana, met in 2015.
The two men hit it off and began discussing the possibility of a hotel chain that would combine Ronaldo’s star power with Pestana’s experience in the hospitality industry. Ronaldo said –
In my opinion, he’s the best guy to do business with in Portugal…He’s from Madeira too, so it was a good partnership. He has the experience, not just in Portugal but all over the world…Dionisio is the number one and I’m the number one in football so, we have everything.
ADVERTISEMENTThe first Pestana CR7 hotel opened in Ronaldo’s hometown of Funchal, Madeira, in July 2016, and it has since expanded to locations in Lisbon, Madrid, and New York.
As the hotels are completely operated by the Pestana group, they have everything you would want in a hotel.
Keeping in trend with the rest of the Pestana Group, Pestana CR7 hotels focus on technology and innovation.
Each hotel features state-of-the-art amenities, including virtual reality headsets, smart mirrors, and interactive walls. The hotels also incorporate a number of sustainable features, such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving systems.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo involved in the day-to-day running of the Pestana CR7 hotel chain?In addition to his role as a co-owner of the hotel chain, Ronaldo is also heavily involved in the design and marketing of the properties.
He worked closely with the Pestana Group’s design team to create the distinctive aesthetic of the hotels, which incorporates sleek lines, bold colours, and a modern, urban vibe.
Ronaldo also serves as the face of the brand, appearing in promotional materials and marketing campaigns for hotels everywhere. He was also present at the opening of all CR7 hotel openings.
But Ronaldo’s involvement in the Pestana CR7 hotel chain goes beyond just lending his name and image to the brand.
He is also a hands-on investor, with a lot of money riding in the business.
The hotel chain is a joint venture between Ronaldo and the Pestana Hotel Group, with the football star holding a 50% stake in the venture.
According to reports, Ronaldo has invested around €40 million into the project, which shows his commitment to the venture.
The investment has allowed the chain to expand and open new properties in several cities, including Madrid and Marrakesh, and there are plans for further expansion in the future.
He has also been known to make surprise visits to the properties, check in with staff and guests, and offer feedback on everything from the food to the decor.

The success of the Pestana CR7 hotel chain is a testament to Ronaldo’s vision and business acumen. The brand has been recognized with a number of awards and accolades, including Portugal’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel and Europe’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel by World Travel Awards in 2020.
The hotels have also received rave reviews from guests, who praise the high-quality amenities, stylish design, and exceptional service.
What’s next for Ronaldo x Pestana group after successful hotel chain?But Ronaldo’s partnership with the Pestana Group goes beyond just the hotel chain. Ronaldo and Pestana have now announced a new project – Pestana Residences CR7.
This marks Pestana’s entry into the real estate category as they seek to build 88 apartments in Ronaldo’s hometown of Madeira.
This will also be a 50-50 partnership between Ronaldo and Pestana and includes around a 50 Million Euros investment. The residences will be built on a plot of land already owned and managed by Ronaldo at Praia Formosa.
Ronaldo’s involvement in the Pestana CR7 hotel chain and other ventures with the Pestana Group demonstrates his commitment to entrepreneurship and his ability to translate his success on the pitch into success off the field.
With his monetary investment, marketing powerhouse, and design inspiration, he is not just an ambassador for the brand – he is making the brand.
Source: Thickaccent.com

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Spring break is just around the corner, and the warm spring sunshine and heated five-acre waterpark beckons families to enjoy an unforgettable getaway at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Recognized as the No. 1 Best Hotel and No. 1 Best Resort in Walt Disney World according to U.S. News & World Report, marking the ninth consecutive year of being awarded a top ranking, the Resort offers incredible activities for kids of all ages and rejuvenating relaxation for parents.Nestled within 26 sprawling acres of lush Florida woodlands and tranquil lakeside scenery, in addition to the waterpark with lazy river, splash zone, and water slides, Four Seasons Orlando features an all-day complimentary kids club, the only adult pool within Walt Disney World Resort, Michelin-starred rooftop Capa Steakhouse and much more.
Fun In The SunGuests of all ages will enjoy discovering “Explorer Island,” the Resort’s expansive water park featuring a winding lazy river with cascading waterfalls, a gradually sloping zero entry family pool, an interactive splash zone, two exhilarating water slides and more. Teens will stay entertained at “The Hideout” featuring the latest gaming systems such as virtual reality, multi-player PAC-MAN, interactive video table games and more. A multi-purpose turf court and basketball court provide even more options for active recreation, as well as table tennis, billiards, and foosball found at the “Ruinous Mansion” – serving as homebase for Kids For All Seasons, the Resort’s complimentary kids camp available daily for children ages 4 to 12.

Children will have a blast at Kids For All Seasons, with a packed day of twice daily supervised swimming and indoor and outdoor activities designed by Sarah Peltier, Director of Recreation. Peltier brings an always-sunny and imaginative disposition to craft fun and creative activities. “It’s always a rewarding experience to create special memories for our little guests,” says Peltier. In addition to traditional poolside entertainment such as air brush tattoos, hair wraps, and balloon artistry, Kids For All Seasons offers daily activations including family game nights, dive-in movies at the family pool and much more. Teens will enjoy special evening activities such as nighttime scavenger hunts throughout Explorer Island, karaoke at The Hideout, and pickleball tournaments.
Peltier, being the oldest of 13 siblings from a blended household, stresses the importance of balancing family time when on vacation. She says, “Quality time spent together is precious, and giving each family member the freedom to recharge with their own resort experiences makes the rest of the vacation journey that much more enjoyable.”ADVERTISEMENTOther fee-based activities are also offered, such as Explorer Island Takeover from 5-8pm and Teen Island Takeover from 8-11pm on Saturday nights, where parents can drop off kids for a few hours, to enjoy a romantic dinner.
Relax and RestoreWhile kids are entertained at Kids For All Seasons, parents can retreat to the 18-treatment room spa, offering a wide array of innovative treatments including Ayurvedic Healing, Vibrational Sound Therapy, IV and IM Vitamin Vitality treatments, and private meditation sessions in the Somadome, a cocoon of healing lights and sounds utilizing binaural beats, color therapy and energy medicine with magnets and crystal therapy. The Spa offers expansive indoor and outdoor relaxation lounges including a co-ed tranquility terrace, solarium with zero-gravity wave loungers, steam rooms and al fresco whirlpools where guests can unwind pre or post treatment, or at any time during their resort stay. “The purpose of vacation is to leave feeling rested and rejuvenated, and we give guests the opportunity to do just that within the sanctuary of our Spa,” says Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa.
More relaxation awaits at the aptly named Oasis pool, exclusive for guests ages 21 and up. The chic, infinity-edge pool is lined with swaying palms, private cabanas and chaise lounges, complete with poolside cocktail service.
For those who wish to stay active during their spring getaway, the resort offers three Har-Tru tennis courts and a variety of clinics, as well as a 24-hour fitness center featuring Peloton® bikes, on-demand digital classes, and daily complimentary live fitness classes ranging from yoga to boot camp. Private instruction is also available, including personal Pilates reformer sessions guided by the Resort’s talented fitness instructors.
Golfers will love the 18-hole championship golf course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando. Whether seeking challenging play fit for professionals or family fun on the Par 3 six-hole short course and 18-hole putting course, guests are sure to enjoy an incomparable golf experience within the picturesque setting of the Tom Fazio-designed course, a certified Audubon Sanctuary featuring varying elevations, abundant wildlife and protected wetlands.
In addition to enjoying the immaculate spring weather outdoors, guests can retreat to the resort and enjoy shopping signature trunk shows with designer appearances at Wardrobe, the resort’s luxury boutique featuring designer apparel and fine jewelry.

Culinary ExperiencesAfter a day spent poolside or exploring the nearby Walt Disney World Theme Parks, there’s no better way to refuel than with a Michelin-starred dinner at the rooftop Capa Steakhouse. Helmed by Capa Chef Malyna Si, the only female chef overseeing a Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Florida, the 17th floor restaurant features Spanish-influenced cuisine with a delectable array of tapas, locally-sourced seafood and wood-fired prime cuts including the pluma Iberico pork loin Si sourced from Extremadura, a prime 12-ounce bone-in filet, and a 16-ounce bone-in New York strip, both from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. There’s also a 12-ounce delmonico and a 16-ounce short rib, both PlatinumX wagyu level certified, a level above prime, from Jackman Ranch in Texas. Si takes pride in offering an elevated menu with unique and rare dishes, saying, “The practicality of my role is that everybody has to eat; the beauty of being a chef lies in the boundless possibilities to create.”
In addition to these mouthwatering options, there are several signature dishes that are not to be missed, including the pan con tomate small plate, the bacon-wrapped and Marcona-almond stuffed datiles, and the cinammon sugar-dusted Churros de Madrid. The incredible cuisine is matched only by Capa’s stunning ambiance, featuring two outdoor terraces with views of the Walt Disney World Resort fireworks spectaculars.
At Ravello, the resort’s modern Italian-restaurant which was also included in the Michelin Guide Miami, Orlando and Tampa, guests will delight in authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, a native of Torino, Italy. Delicious pastas and pizza doughs are prepared with flour imported straight from Italy, and Fabrizio’s homemade limoncello is the perfect way to end any Italian feast. Plus, Ravello welcomes special guests every Thursday and Saturday morning, as well as select Tuesdays, for Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals.

With six different on-site dining establishments featuring global flavors from a diverse culinary team, guests are sure to find something to satisfy every palate.
The Most Magical Place on EarthThere is no better time for guests to experience the magic of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World® Resort, coming to an end March 31, 2023. However, guests can enjoy the excitement of the Disney Theme Parks all spring long with many on-site conveniences, including access to the Resort’s lobby level Disney Planning Center. Staffed by a Disney Cast Member, the Disney Planning Center team offers complimentary assistance with all Disney needs, including assisting guests with purchasing Park tickets conveniently on site, making Disney Park Pass and Disney dining reservations, and much more. Guests can venture to the nearby Disney Theme Parks with complimentary transportation in a luxury motor coach, and enjoy even more time to experience the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration with 30 minutes Early Park Entry to any Theme Park of choice daily.
Visit www.fourseasons.com/orlando/offers for more information.

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Emilie Dumont, Managing Director of Digitrips
Digitrips has revealed Asia is the only region in the world where top destinations still offered prices (per room-night) below 2019 levels at the end of 2022, as hotels strive to boost demand following the region’s delayed reopening.The multi-product travel provider, which owns French B2B OTA MisterFly, found hotel stays in Europe were on average 25% more expensive in December last year compared to December 2019, with North American prices soaring even higher by a staggering 33%. In comparison, many popular destinations in Asia still offered cheaper stays on average than before the pandemic.
Emilie Dumont, Managing Director of Digitrips, said: “Hotels across Europe and North America have enjoyed high and steady demand in the latter half of 2022, leading to a consistent rise in room prices. In contrast, our data from MisterFly suggests Asia continues to lag behind as the late reopening means hotels must keep prices low to stimulate demand and lure back travellers.
“As a result, while visitors to Barcelona could expect to pay on average 30% more for their accommodation last December than they would have before the pandemic, staying in Tokyo or Bangkok was still significantly cheaper on average than in December 2019 – with a decrease close to 20% over the last quarter.”

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Couples are optimistic about their relationships and intend to make more time for their partners in 2023 according to a recent survey by the Sandals Institute of Romance Sandals Resorts’ trend-house responsible for analyzing and spotting the latest global news in modern love, relationships, and intimacy. Surveying more than 1,000 adults across the United States in partnership with Wakefield Research, the data points to major trends, expectations, and other factors impacting relationships, passion, and connection in the year ahead.
The trend report revealed that romantic experiences remain a top priority despite an uncertain economic outlook and the hard reality of inflation. People expect to be far busier in 2023 than they were in 2022, and they’re making difficult choices about how much they spend, prioritizing immediate needs over frivolous ones. And yet, when it comes to spending their ever-shrinking dollars on romance, a majority say they don’t plan to forfeit gifts, getaways, and activities that strengthen connections and fuel intimacy.
What will romance look like in 2023?
For starters, couples are cozying up to a new year with optimism, with 89% saying their relationship will get better or stay the same in 2023. According to the survey, 4 out of 5 Americans 18 and older (80%) plan to make more time for romance, and nearly 3 in 5 (58%) say rising costs won’t derail their plans for a romantic vacation, as most Americans intend to find the time as well as the funds.
For many, what is considered romantic has evolved and changed over time, with 81% percent saying that they find romance has changed in the last decade. As for what’s romantic in today’s modern world, two-thirds (67%) say a getaway for two would be a particularly romantic gift and the top choice for partners in 2023.ADVERTISEMENTThe survey went on to reveal that more than gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

“The definition of romance varies from couple to couple, but there’s a common thread to a thriving relationship and that is to be intentional about making the time for connection,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson-Brown, Sandals Resorts’ Director of Weddings & Romance. “The findings from our latest love study are invigorating and compelling, as Americans confirm their commitment to nurturing their relationships in the coming year – which is why we’re celebrating 2023 as the ‘Year of We.’ Getting away from daily life, free from distractions and stresses, inspires people to focus on what matters most, with the majority of couples agreeing they feel closest to each other while on vacation – and moreover, how this time away energizes the relationship beyond the trip.”
The Sandals State of Romance in 2023 survey went on to reveal much about the romantic pulse of America this year. See the full report here, with findings including:
Couples Plan to Make Time for Romance in 2023, Despite Tight Schedules
80% of respondents expect to be busier in 2023, with 2 in 3 (66%) acknowledging it is challenging to find the time for romance. Still, the vast majority (80%) are committed to making more time for it in 2023, with 31% strongly agreeing.The top obstacles for romance are finding the right setting (41%), financial constraints (38%), work (34%), social obligations (24%), and children (23%).For Boomers, finding time for romance isn’t as difficult, with 45% saying it is not challenging, compared to 32% of Gen X, 24% of Millennials, and 25% of Gen Z.76% of parents say it is challenging to find time for romance. Even in light of this, 88% of parents say they will make more time for romance in 2023, compared with 75% who are not parents.In Lean Times, Many Say Romantic Getaways Are Non-Negotiable
58% of respondents wouldn’t let inflation stop them from taking a romantic vacation, and 42% say that romantic activities would be among the last things to cut back during an economic downturn. Moreover, almost two-thirds of those who have been on a romantic vacation in the past year (64%) refuse to let economic factors stop them from taking one in the future.To help eliminate obstacles, at least temporarily, and create more time for romance, Americans are ready to pack their bags, with the majority saying a getaway is long overdue. Of the 63% who say they are likely to take a romantic vacation in 2023, Millennials are the most restless; 79% say they are likely to take a romantic trip in 2023.Vacations Are Key to Connection and Intimacy

A majority of Americans (51%) say the closest they’ve felt to their romantic partner is when they’re on vacation together.When it comes to romantic vacations that deepen connection, Americans prefer a relaxing beach vacation (67%), especially women (72%) and Gen X (74%).49% view 5 to 7 days as an ideal amount of time for a romantic vacation. Over a week-long romantic vacation, 30% would anticipate being intimate with their partner 3 or 4 days during the trip, and more than a quarter (26%) anticipate being intimate each day of the trip.Nearly three-quarters (73%) say intimacy is more satisfying when they’re on a romantic getaway. And, that satisfaction doesn’t end when the vacation ends: 80% prioritize intimacy with their partner upon returning home from a romantic trip.48% of Millennials say romantic vacations impact their intimacy by making them more adventurous, compared to 28% of Gen X, and 23% of Boomers.Surveying past guests as well as global travelers in committed relationships, the Sandals Institute of Romance’s data is designed to drive the development of integrated on-resort programming, innovative partnerships geared towards enhancing the guest experience, and expert relationship guidance for couples before, during and after their Luxury Included® vacation.
an gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

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SUSTAINABLE YOSEMITE RESORT, EVERGREEN LODGE, REOPENS FOR THE 2023 SEASON

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Choice Hotels International, Inc. is making travel even more rewarding for its Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas members. Travelers can now exchange points between the two loyalty programs at a rate of two Radisson Rewards Americas points per one Choice Privileges point.Whether travelers are planning out leisure or business trips for the year ahead, or looking to book trips with spring break approaching, this option gives people more flexibility to earn and redeem points for award nights.
“This program update, along with our recently expanded portfolio of more than 7,500 locations around the world in top and unique destinations, gives Choice and Radisson Hotels Americas guests more rewards options than ever before,” said Robert McDowell, chief commercial officer, Choice Hotels. “We offer the right hotel, at the right price, no matter where our guests find themselves. Allowing our 66 million combined loyalty members to seamlessly exchange points is a testament to how we continue evolving our programs to create better value for both customers and owners.”
Choice Hotels offers status matching with Radisson Hotels Americas following the company’s acquisition of Radisson Hotels Americas last year. Now, with the expanded option to exchange points between programs, travelers can reap the benefits of both loyalty programs even more easily, including:
Redeeming points at more than 7,500 properties across a diverse set of 22 brands in 46 countries and territories. Award nights start at 6,000 Choice Privileges Points or 12,000 Radisson Rewards Americas points.Access to lower, member-only rates when booking directly with Choice Privileges or Radisson Rewards Americas. Other membership benefits may include room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out and more.Ability to redeem points for gift cards at top gas, restaurant and retail brands.Ability to redeem points for stays at Bluegreen Vacations, PENN Entertainment casino resorts and hotels and now at the iconic Las Vegas hotel Circus Circus Hotel & Casino.Ability to redeem points for exclusive college sports experiences through Choice Privileges Experiences, including access to the court, game tunnel, meet-and-greets and more— with redemptions starting at 40,000 Choice Privileges Points.
To exchange points, guests need to be members of both Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas, which are free to join. Members can log into their account on either ChoiceHotels.com or RadissonHotelsAmericas.com and follow the prompts to exchange points between accounts.ADVERTISEMENTFor Choice Privileges members, this creates the opportunity to redeem points at more than 600 Radisson Hotels Americas properties, including resorts in the sought-after vacation destinations of Aruba, Punta Cana, or Miami, and top cities like Toronto. In addition to the thousands of Choice Privileges participating properties that Radisson Rewards Americas members can redeem points at, they can continue redeeming at Radisson Hotels in United States, Canada, Caribbean, and Latin America.
Named a top hotel loyalty program by both USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards and U.S. News & World Report, Choice Privileges membership is free and offers fast rewards, including free nights, airline miles, or credits for premium coffee and shared rides through the exclusive, personalized, Your Extras welcome gift. Guests can earn points for future stays at Choice and, through this exchange, Radisson Hotels Americas-branded hotels. Radisson Rewards Americas has also been recognized by NerdWallet and WalletHub as a top hotel loyalty company for 2022.  For more information or to enroll in Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas, visit www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges or www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/rewards.

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LEGOLAND® Resorts believe awesome is for everyone! Today, LEGOLAND® California, LEGOLAND® Florida, and LEGOLAND® New York Resorts proudly declare that all Parks will become Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC) by spring 2023.The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) granted LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California with autism certification in 2022. LEGOLAND Florida’s three onsite hotels, as well as Peppa Pig Theme Park, just steps away from LEGOLAND, are also all Certified Autism Centers™. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based training as well as the perspectives of autistic individuals. In addition, the organization provides resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations, and renewal requirements to ensure LEGOLAND Resorts have the tools and support that can make a lasting impact for all guests.
Merlin’s newest North American Park, LEGOLAND New York, will officially become a CAC when it reopens for the 2023 season on March 31. All Resorts worked with IBCCES to train and certify staff in sensory, environmental, and emotional awareness – ensuring families can build a bricktastic vacation and make unforgettable memories.
“LEGOLAND Resorts are designed to inspire creativity amongst children of all abilities – our rides, experiences and entertainment all foster a child’s imagination through a lens of belonging.” says Merlin Entertainments CEO Scott O’Neil. “With 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S.A., we want to build understanding and empathy while also ensuring our teams have the tools and support strategies when engaging with a neurodiverse population. Through this certification, we’re providing our guests with more opportunities to create and play their way, while supporting parents through every step of the vacation planning journey.”
Here’s what families can expect as part of the new LEGOLAND Resorts experience:
Trained front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic guests or those with other sensory sensitivities.Pre-planning resources available for guests on the Resorts’ websites.Across the three Resorts, every ride will have a posted sensory guide developed by IBCCES indicating whether there are bright lights, loud sounds, or any features that guests might need to plan around. Rating each attractions’ sensory levels – touch, taste, sound, sight, and smell – makes it easier for families to plan activities that align with their needs and accommodations. On the guides, there is a Park map marked with low-traffic areas for visitors in need of a low-sensory break area.Low sensory areas allow guests with certain sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment. From 1- 2 p.m. at LEGOLAND California, their newest attraction, LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race, all sound effects are turned off for families looking for a less overwhelming experience.LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND New York offer quiet rooms dedicated to children with varying sensory needs – where guests can decompress with weighted blankets, dim lighting, and tactile toys.Upon request, First Aid offers ear plugs to assist with sound and overstimulation and “Assisted Access Passes” can be requested at Guest Services.“IBCCES is honored to work with all LEGOLAND® Parks in North America to make sure autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families can make treasured memories and enjoy all the amazing experiences LEGOLAND has to offer,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Our programs will provide long-term support with ongoing training and other supports to the Resorts in achieving their objective of providing accessible options for all visitors.”ADVERTISEMENTCurrent sensory guides and resources can be found here: https://www.legoland.com/california/media/b1oahwwa/llcr-sensory-guide.pdf, https://www.legoland.com/florida/media/g4ffsjti/22-llfr-sensory-guide-theme-park.pdf, and https://www.legoland.com/new-york/plan-your-visit/know-before-you-go/certified-autism-center/
For more information, visit legoland.com. To book your next vacation, visit https://www.legoland.com/new-york/, https://www.legoland.com/california/, or https://www.legoland.com/florida/.

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Sustainability has become the heart and soul of the hospitality industry and travel trade, especially with travellers being more concerned of the environment, climate change and well-being of local communities. Hospitality brands across the world are now opting for sustainable approaches to enable this mandate. This is further validated by the findings from the Sustainable Travel Report 2022 published by booking.com, where 78% of global travellers intend to stay in a sustainable property at least once during this year while 71% of travellers expect to put in more effort during the year to travel more sustainably.
Sustainability being the cornerstone of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and across its properties in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, continuously redefines new benchmarks in terms of sustainability and inculcating its core values of compassion, inclusivity, empowerment, and diversity.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, a property managed by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, home to one of the best coral reefs in the Maldives has taken a step ahead in its sustainability endeavours. The resort focuses on several sustainable initiatives including minimising the usage of plastic, producing organic fruits and vegetables in-house and conservation of coral reefs.Minimising waste and single use plastic
During the bygone year the resort was able to reduce its plastic usage simply by replacing plastic garbage bags with washable and re-usable garbage bags and plastic laundry bags has been replaced by hand-made paper bags which are mad out of magazines found in the property. Moreover, the resort has replaced its plastic water bottles by introducing refillable, customized drinking water bottles and has introduced wooden key cards, paper bags, wooden straws, and wooden bins with the objective of further reducing the usage of plastic within the property. Through all these efforts the property has been able to reduce the usage of over 11,500 KG of plastic material during 2021 and 2022
Taking a step ahead, the resort has introduced tote bags which are purely made of damaged umbrellas found within the property. These bags have become a popular accessory among guests within the resort.ADVERTISEMENTFarm to Plate
The resort has introduced a special initiative, ‘Farm to Plate’, an organic vegetable farm which focuses on producing fresh fruits and vegetables within the property. The farm has a dedicated composting area where dry leaves are converted to compost and wastewater is used as the main source to water the farm. The resort works closely with the local community to recycle coconut palm leaves to make roofing covers for public areas within the resort.
Conservation of Coral Reefs in the Maldives
As part of its marine life conversation programme, the resort has placed several artificial Reef Cubes made from crushed glass to increase fish population around the property. In addition, monthly reef & beach clean-ups are arranged by the resort where guests are encouraged to participate. In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, the resort has introduced various initiatives including the use of solar power, reduction of Carbon Dioxide emission and water saving initiatives.
Sustainability, which is a driving force has been embedded into the DNA of Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts and is an ongoing pledge and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is dedicated to make a real difference by driving an eco-friendly change and delivering value to its guests, people, and planet. With a number of sustainability projects on the horizon, the resort remains well focussed on the current sustainability initiatives, and the future projects would draw more attention to the conservation of coral reefs, marine life, and ocean literacy, all while creating greater awareness on various issues related to sustainability and wellbeing. As a brand built on its core values and principles, Cinnamon Hotels & Resort is committed to creating a better tomorrow, both socially and environmentally.

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Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced seven anticipated openings of 2023, adding to the portfolio of 22 Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Japan.The new hotels will be located along national roadside rest areas in the prefectures of Hyogo, Kagoshima, Okayama, Saga, Kumamoto, and Fukuoka in the southern region of Japan, where travelers can discover hidden cultural and historical gems. The Fairfield by Marriott ‘Michi-no-Eki’ project aims to facilitate access to many of Japan’s off-the-beaten-path attractions, offering a comforting hotel experience along the country’s expressways.“We are thrilled to expand the brand in Asia with seven new Fairfield hotels expected to open in Japan this year,” said Diane Mayer, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Classic Select Brands, Marriott International. “Fairfield is celebrated with a unique legacy in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio and we look forward to delivering the promise of warm hospitality and inviting experiences for guests who are discovering up-and-coming destinations across Japan.”
Fairfield by Marriott was created on the principles of warmth, comfort and simplicity. The brand was inspired by the Fairfield Farm at the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia in the U.S. for its breath-taking natural sights and sounds, a restorative place that represents simplicity, balance and a comfortable way of life. The calm aesthetics, warm colour palettes, and straightforward design philosophy uses a combination of natural materials and colour tones to represent the connection between the outdoors and indoors, paying tribute to the brand’s origins in the Fairfield Farm. Guestrooms range in size from 21 to 25 square meters and feature complimentary Wi-Fi and a space-saving shower booth. 
The seven new Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Japan, scheduled to open in 2023, are:
HYOGO
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Tajima Yabu (88 rooms, opened January 24, 2023)ADVERTISEMENTFairfield by Marriott Hyogo Tajima Yabu is located next to Michi-no-Eki Yoka Tajimanokura in Yabu city, in Japan’s southwestern Hyogo Prefecture. The area is home to the picturesque rice fields of Bekku no Tanada and the beautiful Tendaki Falls, set against the backdrop of the highest mountain in Hyogo, Mount Hyonosen. The mountainous countryside is full of natural scenery with flowing rivers in the summer and snowy landscapes in the winter, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura (87 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura is located at the charming Awaji Island, connected to the main island of Honshu by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Visitors can also enjoy one of Japan’s best beaches, Ura Kenmin Sun Beach, as well as the picturesque Awaji Hanasajiki Park where there are sweeping fields of flowers against the backdrop of Osaka Bay.
KAGOSHIMA
Fairfield by Marriott Kagoshima Tarumizu (95 rooms, expected opening spring 2023)
The new hotel will be located at Tarumizu city in Kagoshima at the southernmost part of Kyushu Island.  Kagoshima city is known as “Naples of the East” for its location on a bay facing the famous Sakurajima volcano. Nearby is also Tarumizu Marine Park, where guests can enjoy watersports activities in Kinko Bay’s warm subtropical waters. Adventurous travelers can also try canyoning in Sarugajo Gorge. Accessible by ferry from Kagoshima is the island of Yakushima, where the ancient cedar forests and natural landscapes inspired the Studio Ghibli animated film ‘Princess Mononoke.’
OKAYAMA
Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Tsuyama (78 rooms, expected opening spring 2023)
Located in Okayama, Tsuyama is a town full of history and culture known for the 17th century Tsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s three historic hilltop-style castles. Guests staying at Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Tsuyama can catch Tsuyama’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival every spring in Kakuzan Park, home to about 5,000 cherry blossom trees. Other lively festivals throughout the year include the Gongo Festival, Tsuyama Autumn Festival and Old Izumo Street Festival, where local residents wear traditional costumes and put on theater shows. Okayama is famous for its high number of sunny days and abundance of sweet fruit produced in the region.
SAGA
Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen (84 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen will welcome guests to Ureshino Onsen, a hot spring town in the southwestern Saga Prefecture. Its natural hot spring onsens and bathhouses invite visitors to relax and unwind in soothing alkaline waters. The hot spring waters is also used to make delicious local specialties such as hot tofu, and for preparing green teas. Travelers can also visit Hizen Yumekaido Ninja Village theme park and the 17th-century Yutoku Inari Shrine. The hotel is conveniently accessible by the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train, which began service in September 2022.
FUKUOKA
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha (51 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha is located close to Chikugo Plain, an important farming region in Japan. The rural landscapes are home to rice fields and fruit farms, along with ancient ruins, temples, castles, sake breweries and hot spring onsens. In Ukiha, guests can pick fruits and sample sweets and desserts made with locally grown fruit. Another must-visit in the area is the Ukiha Inari Shrine at the foot of the Mino mountain range. Walk through 90 stunning vermilion torii gates that lead a path to the shrine.
KUMAMOTO
Fairfield by Marriott Kumamoto Aso (93 rooms, expected opening autumn 2023)
The hotel will be located at Kumamoto of southern Japan in the city of Aso, nestled within one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. The area is part of a fabulous landscape of mountains and valleys, with breathtaking sights of the Aso-Nakadake crater and its dynamic volcanic plumes, as well as the Kusasenri-ga-hama plain. The area offers activities to immerse with the natural landscapes, including hot air ballooning, canoeing and horse riding. Guests can also take a ride up the Mount Aso by a car and visit Aso Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
“The Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki project is aimed at creating a footprint of hotels that stretch from Japan’s snowy northernmost regions to its southern prefectures, where travelers can stop and get a good night’s rest as they explore the many historical and cultural attractions, culinary experiences, and natural sites across each region,” said Masahiro Taguchi, Project Director of Fairfield by Marriott’s Michi-no-Eki portfolio. “Guests can look forward to a pleasant and effortless experience every time they check in at a Fairfield hotel.”

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