Latest news with #InterContinental
Al Bawaba
15 hours ago
- Al Bawaba
Celebrate International Yoga Week in Paradise at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
This summer offers the perfect opportunity to realign mind and body amidst the serene beauty of the Maldives. In celebration of International Yoga Day on June 21st, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is hosting an immersive five-day yoga retreat from June 20th to 24th. Led by renowned Dubai-based instructor Emilia Métaireau, the retreat is offering a transformative escape from the everyday. Thoughtfully timed for a mid-summer reset, the experience welcomes wellness seekers to disconnect from routine and rediscover inner harmony through mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation, set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the world's most idyllic island as a signature event for International Yoga Day, this retreat celebrates holistic healing, blending ancient yogic traditions with modern techniques to create a soul-stirring experience. Daily sunrise sessions awaken the senses, while thoughtful evening practices help ground the body and soothe the mind. Guided meditations and energy healing techniques further enhance self-awareness and spiritual instructor for the retreat, Emilia Métaireau, is a passionate advocate for mindful movement and self-care, with over a decade of dedicated practice. Internationally certified in London and having led more than 2,500 hours of classes and retreats around the world, she brings a grounded yet expansive energy to every session. Her approach blends conscious movement, breathwork, and ancient wisdom to guide guests back to their bodies and inner the heart of the retreat lies the ancient yogic philosophy of the five koshas - a powerful framework for self-discovery and holistic wellbeing. According to yoga tradition, each human being is made up of five interconnected layers, or sheaths, known as koshas, which shape our experience of life, spirituality, and self-realisation. These include the Annamaya Kosha (physical body), Pranamaya Kosha (energy body), Manomaya Kosha (mental body), Vijnanamaya Kosha (intellectual body), and the innermost Anandamaya Kosha (bliss body). Each kosha holds the potential to guide us inward - toward balance, clarity, and the essence of who we truly are. Through thoughtfully curated practices of yoga, meditation, and mindful movement, this retreat offers a deeply experiential journey through these five koshas, helping you peel back each layer and return to a place of inner harmony, joy, and embodied Spa, the resort's luxury wellness retreat, welcomes guests to their overwater sanctuary to enjoy signature treatments and wellness therapies, perfect for guests seeking peace and serenity. AVI Spa translates to "sunshine" in the language of its island home, beautifully reflecting the transformative experiences it provides for its guests. The resort's retreat program offers guests a unique opportunity to embark on a deeply holistic journey that nurtures every aspect of your being, restoring balance, enhancing vitality, and reconnecting you with your authentic on the idyllic southernmost tip of Raa Atoll, on the edge of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and bordering a juvenile manta ray aggregation spot, the resort is perfectly situated for indulging in a retreat experience. As the first and only all-Club InterContinental resort, guests are truly spoiled with indulgent complimentary benefits alongside luxurious five-star Maldivian facilities such as overwater villas, an adults-only area including pool and restaurant, and a tranquil spa where guests can enjoy guided meditation and yoga sessions to support mindfulness and recentering. With six restaurants and bars and 81 villas and residences, guests have the luxury to choose their hideaway as well as exceptional food and beverage Highlights & Activity ScheduleWhen: 20th – 24th June 2025Day 1 - June 20thTheme: Annamayakosha - Awaken to your bodyDynamic Vinyasa Flow (90 minutes)Time: 9:00 AMDay 2 - June 21stTheme: Pranamayakosha - Cultivate vibrant vitalityYin & Yoga Nidra (90 minutes)Time: 6:00 PMDay 3 - June 22ndTheme 1. Manomayakosha - Calming the mindDynamic Vinyasa Flow (90 minutes)Time: 9:00 AMTheme 2. Vijnanamayakosha - Ignite your intuitionYin & Yoga Nidra (90 minutes)Time: 6:00 PMDay 4 - June 23rdTheme: Anandamayakosha - Blissful stateDynamic Vinyasa Flow (2 hours)Time: 9:00 AMDay 5 - June 24thTheme: Integrating the five koshas: A journey withinYin & Nidra (90 minutes) Time: 6:00 PM © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
IHG Hotels & Resorts announces African expansion pipeline with 35 new hotels planned
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced plans to expand its footprint in Africa with the addition of 35 new hotels and over 6,500 rooms over the next two to three years, underlining the group's long-term investment strategy for the continent. As one of the world's leading hospitality companies, IHG currently operates 38 hotels and over 9,200 rooms across Africa. The new pipeline highlights sustained momentum for the group in response to growing demand for international-standard accommodation and hospitality services across key African markets. Tourism, development growth drivers Haitham Mattar, managing director for IHG Hotels & Resorts IMEA, says the continent's development trajectory and tourism growth continue to create favourable conditions for expansion. 'Driven by the vast tourism potential and increasing urban development across various countries, Africa continues to generate strong demand for international-standard accommodations, presenting an incredible opportunity for growth in the hospitality sector," says Mattar. "Travellers are eager to explore the continent's diverse offerings – its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, unique wildlife experiences and business potential presenting exciting opportunities for IHG." New hotel openings in key African markets IHG expects several notable hotel openings in 2025 across Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. This includes voco Cairo Arabella Plaza, InterContinental Rabat, and the iconic InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town. "Set to open in December 2025, the InterContinental Table Bay hotel in Cape Town is one we are especially excited about, as it will build on the hotel's rich history and usher in a new era of luxury hospitality in the market," adds Mattar. "With its scenic location and a legacy of excellence, this iconic property embodies the essence of the InterContinental brand, and we're pleased to be working with V&A Waterfront and Sun International to bring this to life in one of Africa's most vibrant cities." Brand positioning and expansion IHG has steadily built a diverse brand portfolio on the continent, ranging from mainstream to luxury offerings across established destinations such as Cairo, Nairobi, and Johannesburg. The group has also extended its voco and Vignette Collection brands into wildlife and adventure tourism locations to cater to shifting consumer demands. Recent signings include Holiday Inn Dakar in Senegal and Crowne Plaza Lagos in Nigeria, reflecting the group's strategy to capture opportunities in both established and emerging African markets. Africa travel trends drive growth According to the latest report from UN Tourism, Africa welcomed 74 million international visitors in 2024 — a 7% increase from 2019 figures and 12% higher than 2023. North Africa led the recovery with a 22% increase in international arrivals compared to pre-pandemic levels. Intra-African travel also contributed significantly to the overall growth. These figures, alongside continued infrastructure investment and growing perceptions of Africa as a premier tourism destination, have created favourable conditions for international hotel operators. Outlook With a growing pipeline and clear strategic focus, IHG Hotels & Resorts says it remains committed to strengthening its presence in Africa. The group's combination of brand diversity, market responsiveness, and long-term partnerships positions it to capture future opportunities within one of the world's most dynamic and promising hospitality markets. All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Giza Palace Hotel & Spa appoints Stefan Fuchs as General Manager
Cairo, Egypt - Giza Palace Hotel & Spa, the newest icon redefining luxury hospitality in Cairo and a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is pleased to announce the appointment of Stefan Fuchs as its new General Manager. A globally recognized hospitality leader, Fuchs brings over 25 years of international expertise across the UAE, Europe, and Asia. Renowned for repositioning flagship properties and delivering award-winning guest experiences, his appointment marks a strategic milestone in Giza Palace's global expansion and brand elevation. Throughout his career, Fuchs has held leadership roles at some of the world's most acclaimed properties. At Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, he guided the hotel to numerous international accolades and solidified its reputation as one of the UAE's premier luxury destinations. At AYANA Resort and Spa Bali, he oversaw one of Asia's most celebrated luxury resorts, enhancing its global prestige through elevated service standards and visionary operational leadership. He most recently served as General Manager of InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, following notable tenures with The Ritz-Carlton and InterContinental Hotels Group. His contributions to the industry have earned him titles such as 'General Manager of the Year: Resort' at the 2024 Hotelier Middle East Awards and 'Best General Manager - Hospitality' at the World GM Awards 2024. Widely respected for his guest-first mindset and inclusive leadership style, Fuchs has a proven track record of building high-performance cultures and positioning properties as industry benchmarks. Under his leadership, Giza Palace Hotel & Spa will continue to expand its visibility while honoring Egypt's cultural heritage through a modern, refined lens. 'Excellence is not a skill. Excellence is an attitude,' says Stefan Fuchs. At Giza Palace, his vision is to craft a hospitality experience where heritage, design, and service seamlessly converge to offer guests a sense of place that is both timeless and extraordinary. About Giza Palace Hotel & Spa Part of The Leading Hotels of the World and developed by Travco Group, Giza Palace Hotel & Spa is Egypt's newest luxury landmark, a refined hospitality destination that bridges timeless Egyptian heritage with modern sophistication. Located in the heart of Cairo, the hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, world-class dining led by Michelin-starred talent, expansive wellness facilities, and bespoke cultural experiences. Giza Palace Hotel & Spa sets a new benchmark for excellence in the region, redefining what it means to experience Cairo in style. Media Contact: Giza Palace Marketing pr@ PR Agency: COPIA PR gizapalace@
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
IHG Hotels & Resorts to boost African hospitality with 35 new hotel openings
Set to open in December 2025, the InterContinental Table Bay hotel in Cape Town is a hotel leading hospitality player, IHG Hotels & Resorts are especially excited about, as part of its rapidly expanding hospitality landscape. Image: Supplied Leading hospitality player, IHG Hotels & Resorts, is recording strong growth trajectory in the African continent as they are set to open additional 35 hotels and over 6,500 rooms from the pipeline in next three years. The bold vision has signalled sustained regional growth for one of the world's leading hospitality companies and its rapidly expanding hospitality landscape. IHG's portfolio in Africa includes 38 open hotels and over 9,200 rooms. IHG expects milestone hotel openings this year across Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa, including the voco Cairo Arabella Plaza, InterContinental Rabat, and the iconic InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town. Managing Director for IHG Hotels & Resorts for India, Middle East & Africa (IMEA), Haitham Mattar, said: 'Driven by the vast tourism potential and increasing urban development across various countries, Africa continues to generate strong demand for international-standard accommodations, presenting an incredible opportunity for growth in the hospitality sector. Travellers are eager to explore the continent's diverse offerings – its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, unique wildlife experiences, and business potential, presenting exciting opportunities for IHG.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Set to open in December 2025, the InterContinental Table Bay hotel in Cape Town is a hotel they are especially excited about, said Mattar, as it will build on the hotel's rich history and usher in a new era of luxury hospitality in the market. 'With its scenic location and a legacy of excellence, this iconic property embodies the essence of the InterContinental brand, and we're pleased to be working with V&A Waterfront and Sun International to bring this to life in one of Africa's most vibrant cities,' said Mattar. Head of Franchise, Amith Khanna, said that as one of the largest hospitality companies with over 6,700 hotels, and more than 1,000 in the pipeline, franchising in Africa was established three years ago. 'It is growing and developing. In this part of the world, our boldest strategy in most of the markets is franchising. So we don't mix one operating goal over another because it's always about the right operating model, with the right brand, the right buyer, and the right market. 'For franchising, owners need to have their expertise and experience in managing. We set standards, and they need to deliver on those standards. If they cannot do it, then we are willing to work with party management companies, and that is how we see people wanting to own their franchise,' said Khanna. Khanna said they currently have seven operating hotels in South Africa. The African hospitality industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by international hotel chains increasing operations and expanding their footprints. As per a report by UN Tourism, in 2024, the continent welcomed 74 million international visitors – a 7% increase from 2019 and a 12% increase compared to 2023. North Africa led the recovery with a 22% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019, with intra-African travel also playing a significant role in the overall tourism increase. Such figures indicate an enhancement of infrastructure and experiences and a growing perception of Africa as a premier tourism destination. Speaking to the challenges of the hospitality industry, Khanna said: 'You will always have challenges but it's about how to mitigate those challenges. Whether it's the economic instability of a country that's a trigger that once stability sets in, you get a lot of demand getting to you where owners reach out to us wanting to take on a specific brand. 'So whether it's the inflation or devaluation of currency and the build of operational costs, many owners share the challenges they face. Regarding skilled manpower, we aim to counter this by providing training and community upliftment,' said Khanna.
South China Morning Post
4 days ago
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Singapore's 1880 club shuts down, 2 weeks after demise of Hong Kong branch
Private club 1880 in Singapore has abruptly closed down, two weeks after its cash-strapped Hong Kong branch folded, with its founder citing falling attendance and decreased spending by members for its demise, the Post has learned. In a letter sent to members on Monday at midnight and seen by the Post, founder Marc Nicolson said its local premises, located in InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, would be shutting down with immediate effect. He also revealed the club's holding company 38 Degrees and operating company 1880 Pte Ltd had been placed into provisional liquidation. Nicolson said in the letter that building 1880 had been a 'dream come true', but 'spending and frequency per visit of our members has been trending down'. He added that he was grateful and sorry to the club's board, staff and members, and told members not to visit the club's premises as 'the doors will be locked'. Nicolson said he had received three offers to invest in or acquire the club, and 'any one of these would have restored us to health and given a runway to building a global brand'. But he had ultimately been 'unsuccessful in getting those offers over the line' and was left without further funds to pay staff and suppliers.
