Hotel News Page 189
North Phuket Unveils Strategic Destination Rebrand to Go Above and Beyond
In a bold move to redefine tourism in Thailand's most visited island, a coalition of top-tier hotels have come together to unveil a new destination branding initiative for North Phuket. While Southern Phuket has long monopolised the spotlight with its neon nightlife and polished resorts, a quieter, more deliberate movement has begun in the island's northern reaches.
Island Shangri-La, Kowloon Shangri-La and Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong Recognised with 5-Crescent Rating
Island Shangri-La, Kowloon Shangri-La and Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong have been recognised with a “Crescent Rating “of 5 signifying a certified standard level of Muslim-friendly hospitality, by globally renowned Muslim travellers. This rating is a standardised and independent accreditation system and acts as global recognition for Halal or Muslim-friendly standards. This certification meets international standards for accommodation services and Halal dining experiences for Muslim guests.
Marriott International Expands Its Footprint in South Asia
Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, makes its debut in South Asia with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection in Nepal. This will be Marriott Bonvoy’s 19th brand in the South Asia region (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). Located in the heart of the city, The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, boasts 285 rooms including suites, each narrating a unique story - a hallmark of Autograph Collection hotels. The hotel exemplifies the brand’s ethos, beautifully showcasing Kathmandu's rich history through a refined and sophisticated perspective. Guests will be treated to an authentic sense of place with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, the sacred Swoyambhunath Stupa, and the hotel’s serene, lush gardens.
La Concha Resort, Puerto Rico, Joins Autograph Collection
La Concha Resort, one of San Juan’s most iconic beachfront destinations, proudly announces its official transition to the prestigious Autograph Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, marking a transformative new chapter for the resort as La Concha Resort, Puerto Rico, an Autograph Collection Hotel. This milestone coincides with the completion of an extensive property-wide renovation, highlighted by the unveiling of the fully reimagined Suite Tower featuring 238 newly redesigned rooms and indulging suites.
Hudini launches digital check-in solution for Pestana Hotel Group in 30+ hotels across Portugal
Hudini, a leader in digital hospitality transformation solutions, has implemented a digital arrival experience at Pestana Hotel Group, the largest multinational company of Portuguese origin in the tourism industry. Initially, Hudini's Staff Connect is being deployed across 30+ Pestana Hotels in Portugal.
Fourth Annual Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival, October 22-26, 2025
Baha Mar, the Caribbean's leading integrated luxury resort in The Bahamas, officially reveals its highly-anticipated five-day lineup of spectacular events and special guest appearances taking place at the fourth-annual The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival at Baha Mar on October 22-26, 2025. Hosted by world-renowned culinary talents including Marcus Samuelsson of Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House, Dario Cecchini of Carna, and Daniel Boulud of Café Boulud, alongside John Cox, Executive Director of Art & Culture at Baha Mar, The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival is truly a one-of-a-kind immersive culinary and art experience.
Unreal Value & Unforgettable Adventures Await at Divi Resorts
This summer, Divi Resorts invites travelers to embrace a Summer of Fun and a Summer of YES by offering exclusive travel and adventure packages across its Caribbean destinations. With a focus on value, fun, and making the most of the season, these limited-time offers are designed to turn vacation dreams into reality.
Banyan Tree Invites the World to Take a "Sacred Pause" with the Launch of #ThisRightNow
In celebration of Global Wellness Day, Banyan Tree, the flagship brand of Banyan Group unveils #ThisRightNow, a global call to pause, breathe and reconnect with what truly matters. The initiative invites guests across the world to step into presence through gentle rituals inspired by the wisdom of nature, local traditions and ancestral rhythms.
The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance to return in 2026
Following its resounding debut, The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance returns for its second edition at the Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, from February 20-22 next year
The Lux Collective and QUBE Development Announce Strategic Partnership
The Lux Collective, the globally recognised hospitality group behind its luxury flagship brand - LUX*, has announced a strategic partnership with QUBE Development. This collaboration marks the Middle East debut of LUX* branded residences through the exclusive launch of a new luxury residential project scheduled to be completed in 2028.
JW Marriott Debuts in Greece with the Unveiling of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa
JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, the brand’s first highly anticipated Mediterranean beach resort, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality on the island. The resort features 160 elegantly appointed guest rooms, suites, and villas, all offering sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, with the majority including private pools to enhance the sense of exclusivity and relaxation. Nestled in Marathi, near the charming town of Chania, the resort spans over 100 acres of idyllic coastline, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with Crete’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
The World's First Hotel Discovery Platform for Discerning Disabled Travellers
Expert enabler of travel for all, Inclu, has launched Inclusive Luxury Hotels: the world's first hotel discovery platform specifically created and curated for discerning disabled travellers. Inclusive Luxury Hotels exclusively features properties that have been – or are in the process of being – comprehensively vetted and Verified by IncluCare, demonstrating their commitment to Inclu's radical concept of 'Conscious Inclusivity' for disabled people. Comprising 18 hotels and resorts across 10 countries at launch, Inclusive Luxury Hotels aims to expand its collection beyond 50 properties by the end of 2025 - opening up the world of luxury travel to countless guests who would come to stay, if only they knew and believed they could.