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On the back of announcing daily transatlantic services to New York (JFK) and Boston from Amsterdam, JetBlue has expanded its partnership with Discover the World.The agreement will provide full GSA sales and marketing services supporting the Benelux travel trade with flights starting later this summer.
Aiden Walsh, Head of Airline Development for Discover the World commented, “We are delighted to grow our trusted partnership with JetBlue to now five European markets: Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, United Kingdom and France. The Discover team plays an integral role by offering our award-winning expertise to successfully launch and develop sales on the competitive transatlantic route network.
Our teams are in place supporting travel trade partners with five flights daily from London (LHR & LGW), daily flights from Paris (CDG) launching in June and Amsterdam (AMS) starting this summer!  It is truly an exciting time to be partnered with JetBlue while they expand internationally and bring their innovative product offering to European markets.”
Maja Gedosev, JetBlue’s General Manager for Europe said, “We are very excited to be launching Amsterdam this year.  Following the successful partnership in the UK and France, it was a natural step for us to expand our work with Discover the World in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg markets.  We are now focused on building a strong team based out of Amsterdam that will support our work in the region and have already started to reach out to the key industry and travel trade stakeholders to introduce JetBlue, our game changing transatlantic product and low fares.”
For Benelux travel trade enquiries email [email protected]ADVERTISEMENT

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JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, made its debut in Goa, India today with the opening of JW Marriott Goa.Set in an unparalleled location along the golden Goan coastline and close to landmark attractions, historic forts, churches, and pristine beaches, JW Marriott Goa is the perfect getaway and an embodiment of the JW Marriott principle of mindfulness. With thoughtfully crafted spaces, transformative experiences and sophisticated style, the new hotel is poised to be an oasis of luxury and warm hospitality, empowering guests to focus on feeling revitalized in mind, body and spirit.
“JW Marriott is at the forefront of the evolution of luxury, blending a legacy of extraordinary hospitality with a contemporary commitment to mindfulness and well-being that continues to be a priority for today’s luxury traveler,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “JW Marriott Goa embodies this modern approach to luxury through its thoughtful design, emphasis on serene spaces and connection to the natural world.”
“We are delighted to announce the opening of JW Marriott Goa. This opening marks a milestone for Marriott International’s 150th opening in South Asia. It solidifies our commitment in the region and signifies the trust our owners have in us,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “We remain confident in the strength of our brands, our team, and we shall continue to pave the way for aggressive expansion with our strong pipeline of hotels.”
The new hotel is located along the picturesque coastline of Vagator, Goa, minutes from historic Chapora Fort and Chapora and Vagator beaches, famous for their dramatic cliffs and breathtaking sunset views. This popular travel destination is approximately 27 kilometers from the new Mopa Airport in North Goa and 43 kilometers from Goa International Airport.
Thoughtful DesignInspired by the rich culture and traditions of Goa, the 151-room JW Marriott Goa reflects the tranquility and beauty of its surroundings, with an architectural narrative featuring local artifacts such as wooden paneling, mother-of-pearl detailing, intricate glassware chandeliers and water fountains that accentuate the natural marble and stone throughout its serene spaces. The use of neutral color palettes of gray and light sand, along with soft ambient lighting, complements the abundant greenery of its natural surroundings. Goan cultural references and elements of modern design interweave to create a sense of place in a peaceful sanctuary. Guestrooms feature balconies that open to breathtaking ocean views, and luxurious suites offer private plunge pools. ADVERTISEMENTInspired Culinary CreationsJW Marriott Goa features four inviting dining venues to suit all occasions. JW Kitchen is the hotel’s all-day restaurant with a theater-style open kitchen, serving globally-inspired cuisine and exquisite local dishes, along with indulgent Sunday brunches and a special children’s selection. Pérola is an impeccably-appointed French-style lobby bar with a daily Afternoon Tea service, ideal for casual meetings and get-togethers over a glass of wine, signature coffee or tea, and light snacks. Guests can savor Mediterranean cuisine and exotic cocktails at the hotel’s sky-dining Água Bar and Café, perched atop the hotel overlooking the infinity pool and spectacular views of the Goan coast. The luxurious Heliconia serves modern Asian fine dining along with handcrafted cocktails amidst lush natural surroundings. Complementing the resort’s commitment to healthy dining, many of the seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs featured on the menus are grown in the hotel’s signature JW Garden. Guests can also harvest the fresh produce within the garden’s calming spaces as they reconnect with their loved ones in natural surroundings.
Serene SpacesFor guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel offers holistic treatments at Spa by JW, which features Goa’s first and only Turkish and Moroccan hammams, or steam rooms. The hotel’s modern gym, JW Fitness, showcases the latest cardio and weight equipment, and a stunning outdoor infinity pool with poolside cabanas where guests can enjoy a relaxing swim and lounge in the warm tropical sunshine.
The Family by JW program puts families first, offering an entertainment center with virtual reality games, a bowling alley and a children’s play area for quality family time together. Kids can learn the art of candle making, create pasta necklaces, enjoy board game competitions, and more, while adults can join Zumba classes, chakra healing sessions, and Gua Sha workshops. Fun-filled activities for all ages, such as water polo and pot painting, allow families to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Spaces For ConnectionThe hotel offers a total of 18,752 square feet of indoor and outdoor event spaces, including two well-appointed meeting rooms as well as the splendid 4,607-square-feet Grande Salão, an elegant ballroom with an outdoor terrace, complete with the latest audio-visual technology, Wi-Fi and a dedicated events team for seamless and memorable meetings, weddings and celebrations.
“Guests arriving at JW Marriott Goa step into a luxury oasis, set like a rare jewel in one of India’s finest tropical beach destinations. Our hotel is a haven of tranquility inspired by its natural surroundings where guests can seek well-being     as well as explore all the vibrant attractions of Goa and the genuine hospitality of its people. We look forward to welcoming travelers to discover all that beautiful Goa has to offer,” said Manav Malhotra, General Manager, JW Marriott Goa.
For more information or to make a reservations, please visit JW Marriott Goa.

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As part of its Journey Through Time master plan, the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) will further expand the accommodation offering in AlUla with Dar Tantora by The House Hotel, an immersive and authentic hospitality experience in AlUla Old TownDar Tantora will also house a pool and spa as well as a restaurant and café.
RCU is developing the 30-room landmark property by restoring several historical mud-brick buildings using contemporary engineering methods and time-honoured techniques. The development will showcase the Old Town village as a vibrant cultural hub. The rooms will be adorned with traditional décor, furniture and artistic accents, incorporating storytelling elements that capture the area’s intangible heritage. Local artisans received specialised training to participate in the restoration endeavours.
The project reflects RCU’s comprehensive efforts to revive AlUla Old Town with tourism as the engine of development and job creation. RCU is driven by an ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability in its comprehensive regeneration efforts, including the Sustainability Charter that governs each project’s economic, social and environmental impacts. For delivering on this vision, AlUla Old Town was recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation as a “Best Tourism Village” in 2022.
John Northen, Vice President- Head of Hotels and Resorts, Royal Commission for AlUla, said, “Dar Tantora by The House Hotel will allow guests to live the rich heritage of the AlUla Old Town historical village. Steeped in the past yet embracing progress, this hotel encapsulates RCU’s vision for a diverse range of accommodations as we continue to deliver on our plans for more than 5,000 keys by 2030.”
“We take immense pride in operating Dar Tantora by The House Hotel, a location that seamlessly weaves AlUla Old Town’s cultural legacy with the comfort of modern luxury. At Kerten Hospitality, our dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences resonates with RCU’s objective of creating harmonious communities, and we eagerly look forward to playing a significant role in the region’s development,” said Marloes Knippenberg, CEO, Kerten Hospitality.ADVERTISEMENT

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Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel and Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group have teamed up to bring Honolulu residents and visitors a new multi-year resident show, exclusive to Hawaii. Executives from both organisations were joined by Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi to make the announcement on 10 April.
Anticipated to open in late 2024, the show will fuse the world-renowned acrobatics and innovation that Cirque du Soleil is known for with the natural beauty and unique culture of the Hawaiian islands. Native Hawaiian, Aaron J. Salā, PhD, has been retained as the creative cultural producer to assist in creating this show’s storyline along with other prominent Hawaiian artists, musicians and dancers.
A joint venture is being made by both parties to create this opportunity and transform the 20,000 sq. ft. (1858 sqm) showroom venue at Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, previously used by Magic of Polynesia. The necessary permits for renovation work to commence and create the nearly 800-seat theatre with state-of-the-art audio-visual system are being submitted. The venue architect is Hawaii-based G70, with project estimating done by RLB in Honolulu.
“Cirque du Soleil is an iconic company at the apex of entertainment,” said Jeff Wagoner, President and CEO of Outrigger Hospitality Group. “We are confident that the show created for Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel will delight and astound our guests and residents.”
ADVERTISEMENTMr Wagoner added: “This collaboration with Cirque was years in the making and perfectly aligns with Outrigger’s brand elevation strategy, which includes a promise to provide authentic live music and signature experiences in renowned beach locations.”
Mayor Rick Blanglardi, said: “In addition to bringing new vibrancy to Waikiki, this project will produce significant economic impact through job creations in redeveloping the theatre space and ongoing show operations. I’m honoured and excited to welcome Cirque du Soleil as the newest Honolulu resident.”
More details will be shared in the coming months regarding the partnership, the show’s name and creative concept, as well as on-sale dates, with a target of December 2024 for the show’s debut.

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Crystal Lagoons enters the largest country in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, with a new mega deal to develop real estate, hospitality, and Public Access Lagoons™, also called PAL™, projects. The development plan consists of several luxury complexes, which will be located in coastal and inland cities such as Riyadh, as well as Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, and Khobar.
The multinational innovation company, founded by scientist Fernando Fischmann, has partnered with A’amal Group, a major holding company with interests in the investment, hospitality, real estate & energy development across the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The company’s Founder & CEO Yassin Al Suroor, is also the Founder & CEO of DANA investment, specialized in the digital economy. He is a board member of several regional and international companies, as well as nonprofit global organizations.
With the new partnership with A’amal Group, Crystal Lagoons consolidate its presence in the Middle East, where it already has ongoing projects in the UAE, Egypt, Israel, Palestine and Oman. In fact, the world’s two largest crystalline lagoons are located in the Middle East: District One in Dubai (30 hectares) and Citystars Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt (12.8 hectares).
“I am very pleased to announce this strategic alliance between A’amal Group and Crystal Lagoons, and the potential that it holds for Saudi Arabia. We believe that this partnership follows our vision for the future, and are confident that working in synergy will lead to the development of unique destinations throughout the country.” Said Yassin Al Suroor, President & CEO of A’amal Group
At the center of these PAL™ developments are large crystalline lagoons suitable for swimming and water sports, surrounded by white sandy beaches, which are open to the public for a fee. The complexes also have commercial areas, restaurants, weddings, hotels, concert venues, terraces, amphitheaters, etc.ADVERTISEMENT“Closing a strategic partnership like this for 10 PAL™ projects in Saudi Arabia is a milestone that validates our uniqueness and added value as a brand. It also shows that the Crystal Lagoons® concept and technology can bring idyllic beaches anywhere in the world, even to the middle of the desert, and create unique tourism opportunities,” said Alastair Sinclair, Regional Director of Crystal Lagoons.
Crystal Lagoons experienced record global expansion in 2022 with its PAL™ projects. The company entered over 15 new markets and closed mega business deals in countries including Japan, Australia, India, Israel, Palestine, among others.

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Under Canvas, the leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality, announced today the opening of the first location of ULUM™, a new, safari-inspired, luxury outdoor resort brand Designed by Nature. ULUM Moab, ideally situated steps from awe-inspiring Looking Glass Arch, is now open, inviting guests to experience elevated design, exceptional hospitality and refined comfort in nature.
Located on 200 acres of stunning desert landscape, the first destination of the ULUM brand reflects nature inside and out – with architecture that embraces the contours of the land and seamlessly integrates into the landscape it inhabits.
ULUM Moab’s contemporary lobby has floor-to-ceiling glass windows with unparalleled views of nearby Looking Glass Arch and Canyonlands National Park beyond. The light-filled lobby features organic materials like local stone, natural wood, and polished concrete at every turn, and opens up onto an expansive terraced deck with dipping pools, firepits, a yoga deck, and comfortable lounge spaces, perfect for enjoying the resort’s exceptional views.
Each of the resort’s spacious, 360-square-foot Suite Tents features a bedroom with king-size bed, plush Parachute linens and robes, a lounge area with West Elm furnishings including a queen size sofa-bed and lounge chairs, and a private 70-square-foot deck. A contemporary barn door reveals an ensuite bathroom with rain shower and plant-based, Aesop bath products. Natural woods, woven rugs, and a Pendleton wool blanket highlight the use of organic materials throughout, and an evaporative cooling fan and wood-burning stove for the perfect sleeping environment from spring to fall.
The first luxury, outdoor resort of its kind, ULUM Moab offers all the amenities of a luxury hotel: upscale dining, dipping pools, and complimentary wellness and lifestyle activities including yoga, stargazing, hiking, live music and evening s’mores. For one-of-a-kind excursions, ULUM’s Adventure Concierge can arrange world-class experiences including white water rafting, rock-climbing, national park tours, favorite local hikes, and more.ADVERTISEMENT“ULUM Moab perfectly blends comfort, style, and outdoor exploration,” said Matt Gaghen, chief executive officer of Under Canvas. “Our exceptional location featuring Looking Glass Arch and spectacular views across Canyonlands is inspiring. We look forward to welcoming guests to this unique, new resort experience, where they can relax, recharge, and discover nature in a whole new way.”
Approachable, high quality, expertly crafted meals are pillars of the ULUM experience. Craft cocktails reflecting local flora such as sage, juniper, and prickly pear complement a seasonal, Southwest-inspired menu enjoyed al fresco in the enchanting desert landscape. Additionally, an onsite espresso and smoothie bar brings coffee culture to the outdoors with premium hot and cold espresso beverages, specialty smoothies, and grab ‘n go snacks.
Rooted in a commitment to sustainability, ULUM Moab offers Rivian Waypoints Level 2 chargers for guests with electric vehicles to adventure responsibly and enjoy the convenience of an overnight charge. The resort follows International Dark Sky principles, recognizing thoughtful development practices that mitigate light pollution and maximize the night’s sky. Additionally, Under Canvas has joined forces with the global environmental nonprofit The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to help fund conservation and raise awareness through education, volunteer efforts, and donation programs.
ULUM Moab’s inaugural season runs through October 23, 2023. Reservations for the 2023 and 2024 season are available at www.ulumresorts.com.

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Hong Kong headquartered Wharf Hotels, a hospitality group with hotel operations spanning mainland China, Hong Kong and the Philippines, announced 11 of its 16 properties have been brought under Global Hotel Alliance’s (GHA) Green Collection. The Green Collection features independent mid-scale to high-end hotel brands in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, which are deeply committed to protecting people and the planet.
Wharf Hotels’ 11 properties – under the Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels brands – listed in the Green Collection include Marco Polo Parkside, Beijing; Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi, Foshan; Marco Polo Wuhan; Marco Polo Xiamen; Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel; Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu and Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila.  The group’s Niccolo Hotels in Changsha, Chengdu Chongqing and Suzhou are also acknowleged.
“Being in GHA’s Green Collection is an additional recognition of our sustainability efforts, and at Wharf Hotels, we are proud of our inroads into reduction, replacement and renewal,” said Wharf Hotels President Thomas Salg.  The Green Collection coherently aligns with our group values and we will continue making decisions and implementing effective initiatives, which are not detrimental to the environment and communities in which we operate.”
“Across GHA’s 800 properties from 40 brands, located in 100 countries around the globe, there are some world-class examples of practices and initiatives with a positive environmental and social impact, and we are incredibly proud of these efforts, which we celebrate with the launch of Green Collection,” said GHA CEO Chris Hartley.  “By launching Green Collection, we are reiterating our alignment to the UN’s Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), which guide the development of the hospitality industry for a more sustainable future,” Hartley added.
Properties in the Green Collection are taking action in line with Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC) guidelines, which encompass the implementation of effective sustainable planning; maximising social and economic benefits for local communities; enhancing the cultural heritage of destinations where they operate; and reducing negative environmental impact.  Every property in the Green Collection has attained at least one globally recognised certification from leading entities including EarthCheck, Green Growth 2050, Green Key, and Green Globe.ADVERTISEMENTSince opening, Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi, Foshan has been fulfilling its environmental obligations.  It aims to reduce its total water consumption by 20% by the end of 2024 through two bathroom fixtures –– low-flow faucets, and low-flow and dual flushing.  Up to 30 per cent and 40 per cent, per flush, of water consumption can be saved from each initiative respectively.  Six months ago, the hotel took their commitment to the environment one step further by converting a minimum of 70 per cent kitchen grease, from dish washing machines and kitchen sinks, to fertiliser.
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel is striving to reduce its electricity consumption by 15 per cent by 2030.  The implemented measures are intended to be as far-reaching within the property itself and encompass switching off lighting on non-occupied guest floors; installing LED lighting, motion sensors and timer controls.  Additionally, the speed of each guestroom fan coil unit is set on low mode and at 22 degrees Celsius to prevent the generation of moisture.
Marco Polo Wuhan has set an optimistic target to conserve 1,825 kilowatts of electricity annually.  Last year the hotel made the move to retrofit its lighting, replacing 35-watt spotlights and 200-watt light strips with seven-watt energy saving spotlights and eight-watt light strips.
Niccolo Changsha has forged ahead with energy saving measures since opening in October 2018.  These range from recovering steam condensate for boiler use; reusing the condensed water; periodically cleaning the water tank; as well as installing water metres for zone management and supervision.  The hotel is also reaping the energy-saving benefits of new technology such as infrared sensors on lighting, and elevator software programming to achieve energy efficiency.
Most notably, the hotel aims to – by the end of 2024 – reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 601,577 kilotonnes; reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent or save 523,860 gigawatt-hours; reduce water consumption by 30 per cent or save 28,879 mega litres; as well as save 48,838 mega litres of gas.
To celebrate the launch of the Green Collection, GHA DISCOVERY is giving back to the causes important to members and its hotel brands.  For every Green Collection hotel booking made on www.ghadiscovery.com or the GHA DISCOVERY mobile app before the end of April 2023 and completed by 31st July 2023, GHA will donate US$5 to the charities it supports as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, which includes Environmental Protection, Healthcare & Wellbeing, Children & Youth Programmes, and Animal Welfare.
About Wharf Hotels
Hong Kong SAR-based Wharf Hotels, a subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited, operates 16 owned and/or managed hotels under Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines.  Niccolo Hotels was added to the group’s portfolio in 2015 as the luxury brand and encompasses five contemporary chic hotels –– The Murray, Hong Kong; Niccolo Changsha; Niccolo Chengdu; Niccolo Chongqing and Niccolo Suzhou.
Marco Polo Hotels’ 11 international deluxe hotels in established locations within Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines reflect the philosophies of their namesake and adventurer – Marco Polo, and invite guests to explore, discover and experience a destination.  Wharf Hotels is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance.  Visit wharfhotels.com.

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We are delighted to announce the launch of Nammos Hotels & Resorts. Adding another layer to Nammos World, the new hospitality brand is a result of ADMO – a joint venture between Alpha Dhabi and Monterock International. Encapsulating the effortless exclusivity and service Nammos and its iconic beachside restaurants have become synonymous with over the past 20 years, the hotels and resorts will provide a holistic hospitality experience befitting of the international jet-set. Opening its doors on the golden sands of Psarou beach this summer, Nammos Hotel Mykonos will mark the brand’s first property, with resorts in the Maldives and Abu Dhabi on the horizon.
Catering to the most sophisticated of travellers and stylish sybarites, Nammos Hotels & Resorts will provide an unrivalled and genuine hospitality experience that mirrors elements of the existing Nammos offerings, whilst evoking a true sense of laid-back luxury. An establishment that never ceases to evolve, Nammos began as a traditional tavern the beach of Psarou in Mykonos 20 years ago and has since transformed into a world class destination that redefines beach life. The pivot into hotels and resorts marks an ambitious and scalable plan from Alpha Dhabi and Monterock International to extend Nammos World’s reach and global footprint, whilst diversifying its offering, further establishing its reputation as a luxury hospitality brand that provides an unrivalled culinary experience.
Commenting on the announcement, Zannis Fratzeskos, founding partner of Nammos World, said: “Over the last decade we’ve mastered the art of creating a daytime experience like no other, and are delighted that Alpha Dhabi and Monterock International have set a vision to further fortify the Nammos World brand with the launch of Nammos Hotels & Resorts. The properties are set to embody the lifestyle we’ve created within an unrivalled hospitality experience, and we’re excited for Nammos’ global customers to experience the brand within a hotel setting.”
“All of us at Monterock International are thrilled to be partnering with Alpha Dhabi via our recent joint venture ADMO and honoured to be building upon Nammos World’s existing lifestyle offerings. We hope to capture the exclusive ambience Nammos World has created over the last 20 years within a hotel setting and are excited for guests to experience this first hand.” comments Alfredo Longo, CEO of Monterock International.
ADVERTISEMENTAt Nammos Hotels & Resorts the guest experience will take centre stage through world-class entertainment, signature gastronomy and unfaltering attention to detail. Providing a chic and sophisticated haven, international travellers are invited to escape fast paced city life by reconnecting with the ones who mean the most and forming new connections with an eclectic and hedonistic set. Each property will be designed to the very highest standard, provide the finest service and offer otherworldly experiences that reflect the destination they’re set within. Guests will have exclusive access to Nammos World’s unparalleled gastronomic, retail and wellness offerings.
For more information on Nammos Hotels & Resorts please visit nammoshotels.com and follow @nammoshotels

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