Latest news with #luxurytravel
Skift
5 hours ago
- Business
- Skift
Kill the Front Desk: CitizenM CEO Says Marriott Backs Its Tech and AI Vision
The boutique hotel that figured out how to make tiny rooms feel luxurious is about to find out if corporate ownership kills cool. CitizenM's CEO Lennert De Jong believes Marriott's approach to tech and service are very promising. CitizenM built its reputation by doing everything traditional hotels don't: digitizing the check-in experience, offering tiny rooms, and hiring staff based on personality rather than past training. Now that Marriott is acquiring CitizenM for $355 million, industry watchers are asking whether the corporate giant will strip away what made it special. CEO Lennert De Jong – employee number one when CitizenM launched in 2008 – isn't worried. In his first public interview since the acquisition announcement, he argued at Skift's Data and AI Summit that Marriott gets the brand's mission: He thinks Marriott is just as obsessed with killing the front desk as he is. Watch the interview here: Tech Innovation De Jong said that when CitizenM's leadership fielded acquisition offers from various potential owners, they considered Marriott's
Skift
8 hours ago
- Business
- Skift
Luxury Hotel CEOs: Wealth Boom in India and China Is Driving Travel Demand
Hotel executives agreed that the global luxury market is increasingly defined by travelers once overlooked by Western strategies. Luxury travel demand is being driven by growing wealth in India and China, according to hospitality leaders who gathered this week at a Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) meeting in Brussels. Collectively, the over 45 hotel brands that use GHA as their loyalty program – which include Minor Hotels, Corinthia, Pan Pacific, and Kempinski – reported a 13% increase in bookings so far this year. The growth signals momentum despite global headwinds, such as conflict in the Middle East, tariff tensions, overtourism co
Daily Telegraph
17 hours ago
- Daily Telegraph
Review: APT Solara, a river ship that stands out from the crowd
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. To be or not to be a river ship – that is the question. When Australian-owned travel company APT approached the ambitious build of its new twin ships the Solara and Ostara, the brief was to create something dramatically different and see Europe through an Australian's eyes. Designed for the continent's busiest route from Amsterdam to Budapest, the luxurious Solara certainly stands out from the crowd. Despite having to adhere to the Danube's strict ship dimensions – there are 68 locks to navigate along the Rhine-Main-Danube route – the Solara offers surprising variety, and is contemporary and stylish with subtle nautical touches, including a chic French-navy exterior. Set the scene Checking into the airy atrium is a dreamy experience. High ceilings and a skylight open up the all-white space. There is a marble water station, a circular marble table and a tiled floor centrepiece in the dimensions of a compass. A dramatic macramé-like hanging rope sculpture descends from the ceiling into the softly curved stairwell, and the walls showcase original landscapes by artist Greg Wood and pieces curated by Melbourne gallery Otomys. The design was conceived by renowned Melbourne firm Hecker Guthrie (their first project on a ship), and influenced by APT's co-owners and siblings Lou Tandy and Rob McGeary. The designer furniture is whimsical and elegant but comfortable – think Gervasoni and Casini – and it has instant wow factor. If money was no object, this is how I'd love my home to look. We took a canal tour through Amsterdam. The itinerary While the Solara's 15-day itinerary will traverse the Netherlands, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, I'm only on board for four nights for the christening and 'shakedown' cruise. This is a test run of sorts, and we embark at Rotterdam under the Erasmus Bridge before sailing past green pastures and fields of wild yellow canola flowers to Kinderdijk to tour the idyllic working windmills (dating back to the 16th century). We dock overnight at quaint Dordrecht (one of the oldest cities in Holland), visit Lisse to catch the vivid annual spring tulip festival Keukenhof, and take a canal tour through Amsterdam, which is celebrating 750 years. Although the friendly crew is busily readying the final touches to the ship, and pumping out countless espressos from the shiny new La Marzocco coffee machine in The Salon, the whole thing feels flawless. With Solara's capacity for 154 guests (and 60 crew), no cabin feels like you are missing out. Picture: Supplied. The cabins There are three categories of suites: the plush Owner's Suites, the Balcony Suites and the wood-panelled Twin Window Suites, and each has a colour scheme inspired by the seasons. Thick carpets range from sage green for spring to dusky pink for autumn. Original prints of signature European shore excursions by Australian photographer Nick Wilkins (available to buy) adorn the walls and lend an antipodean lens. The bathrooms have an abundance of storage, enormous shower heads, floor-to-ceiling tiling and marble sink tops. Toiletries by sustainable Amsterdam brand Marie-Stella-Maris were sourced by Tandy herself. With Solara's capacity for 154 guests (and 60 crew), no cabin feels like you are missing out. Solara has seven bars and eateries, each of which feels like a top-notch restaurant or wine bar. Picture: Supplied. Food and drink Solara has seven bars and eateries, each of which feels like a top-notch restaurant or wine bar. Catering to Australian travellers who have curious palates and want variety and quality, APT engaged hospitality guru Monique Lane of Fellow Hospitality (collaborating with chef Stephen Seckold of House Made Hospitality). From the fare at Bistro Saison, to the degustation paired with top-notch wine in the Owner's Cellar, and the laid-back eats at Annie's Table (named for the owners' mother), the offerings are impressive. The Grüner Bar & Dining, which rises on hydraulics so it elevates above other ships in dock, is a surprising hit, with dishes such as pretzels with whipped ricotta and moreish focaccia with butter that melts in your mouth. All bread and pastries are baked on board daily, and the delicious ice-cream and gelato are handmade. It has a circular conversation pit around solar lanterns to resemble a campfire, a nod to APT's outback touring heritage. Picture: Supplied. The extras Along with a jewel-coloured spa/salon, gym, and daily shore excursions that are included, e-bikes for guests who want to explore independently are provided. The roof has a small circular heated pool and two levels for guests to enjoy, and the Daystar Deck is a standout. It has a circular conversation pit around solar lanterns to resemble a campfire, a nod to APT's outback touring heritage. A marble cooktop space functions as an outdoor bar and barbecue, lending an Australian touch. The Grüner Bar & Dining has a great menu and sitting in a vibing wine bar while enjoying the view is a highlight. Picture: Supplied. What's hot The Grüner Bar & Dining has a great menu (the fish finger sambo is the hot ticket) and sitting in a vibing wine bar while enjoying the view is a highlight. What's not The square pillows on my bed were uncomfortable, although I learned later they were delivered by mistake and had been replaced before the first guests arrived. Checking into the airy atrium is a dreamy experience. Picture: Supplied. The verdict - 10/10 While I didn't sail the full itinerary, it's impossible to fault Solara. It's the most stylish river ship I've set foot on – the combination of Australian design, food and thoughtful inclusions is impeccable. The writer was a guest of APT Luxury Travel. Its 15-day Magnificent Europe cruise on Solara and Ostara, sailing Budapest to Amsterdam, starts at around $8495 twin share. Originally published as Review: APT Solara stands out from the crowd
Zawya
21 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Cocana Resort Named Top 10% of Hotels Worldwide - Awarded 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award
GILI TRAWANGAN, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 June 2025 – Cocana Resort is proud to announce it has been named a winner in the prestigious Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for 2025, placing us in the top 10% of hotels worldwide. This global recognition reflects the consistent excellence in guest reviews and service that define the Cocana Resort experience. Over the past year, travelers from around the world have chosen Cocana Resort as one of their favourite destinations, praising the resort's signature barefoot luxury experience, stunning Gili T beachfront resort grounds, thoughtful hospitality and service. The award is based entirely on guest feedback shared on Tripadvisor — genuine, first-hand experiences that speak to the heart Cocana Resort. To add to the celebration, Cocana Resort was also the top-performing hotel in regional revenue on Expedia in the past year, a testament not only to the guest satisfaction but also to the resort's strength as a standout luxury destination in the market. Tripadvisor President Kristen Dalton has said, 'Congratulations to Cocana Resort on its recognition in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards for 2025. Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you've made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many took time to go online and leave glowing reviews. We hope this recognition continues to drive success in 2025 and beyond.' Cocana Resort features 45 private-pool villas offering spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom options, and 38 intimate deluxe lagoon suites on the stunning Gili Trawangan beachfront. 'We're incredibly honoured to be recognised as a Travelers' Choice Award winner this year,' said Alain Eggenschwiler, General Manager of Cocana Resort. 'This award belongs to our guests — for sharing their stories — and to our remarkable team, whose passion and dedication continue to elevate every stay.' The Travelers' Choice Awards are among the most respected accolades in the global travel industry. Being named in the top 10% of hotels worldwide is a powerful affirmation that Cocana Resort is delivering world-class experiences that leave lasting impressions. Cocana Resort is home to Cocana Sunset Club, Pacifica Restaurant, and SAO Spa giving guests an elevated luxury stays in one of the world's most beautiful island destinations. Cocana Resort was developed by Bali's leading property developer Mirah Investment & Development with a portfolio of hotels, resorts, residential complexes Visit to find out more! Hashtag: #Mirah #CocanaResort #Mirahinvestment&development #hotel The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Cocana Resort Floating in a turquoise sea and fringed by white sands and coconut palms, welcome to Cocana Resort – the best luxury resort in Gili Trawangan. Offering the ultimate luxury getaway experience on one of the most beautiful islands of Indonesia. Mirah Investment & Development
Malay Mail
a day ago
- Malay Mail
Cocana Resort Named Top 10% of Hotels Worldwide - Awarded 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award
Cocana Resort - Gili Trawangan, Indonesia GILI TRAWANGAN, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 June 2025 – Cocana Resort is proud to announce it has been named a winner in the prestigiousfor 2025, placing us in the top 10% of hotels worldwide. This global recognition reflects the consistent excellence in guest reviews and service that define the Cocana Resort the past year, travelers from around the world have chosen Cocana Resort as one of their favourite destinations, praising the resort's signature barefoot luxury experience, stunning Gili T beachfront resort grounds, thoughtful hospitality and service. The award is based entirely on guest feedback shared on Tripadvisor — genuine, first-hand experiences that speak to the heart Cocana add to the celebration, Cocana Resort was also the top-performing hotel in regional revenue on Expedia in the past year, a testament not only to the guest satisfaction but also to the resort's strength as a standout luxury destination in the market. Tripadvisor President Kristen Dalton has said, 'Congratulations to Cocana Resort on its recognition in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards for 2025. Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you've made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many took time to go online and leave glowing reviews. We hope this recognition continues to drive success in 2025 and beyond.' Cocana Resort features 45 private-pool villas offering spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom options, and 38 intimate deluxe lagoon suites on the stunning Gili Trawangan beachfront.'We're incredibly honoured to be recognised as a Travelers' Choice Award winner this year,' said Alain Eggenschwiler, General Manager of Cocana Resort. 'This award belongs to our guests — for sharing their stories — and to our remarkable team, whose passion and dedication continue to elevate every stay.'The Travelers' Choice Awards are among the most respected accolades in the global travel industry. Being named in the top 10% of hotels worldwide is a powerful affirmation that Cocana Resort is delivering world-class experiences that leave lasting Resort is home to Cocana Sunset Club Pacifica Restaurant , and SAO Spa giving guests an elevated luxury stays in one of the world's most beautiful island Resort was developed by Bali's leading property developer Mirah Investment & Development with a portfolio of hotels, resorts, residential complexesVisit to find out more!Hashtag: #Mirah #CocanaResort #Mirahinvestment&development #hotel The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Cocana Resort Floating in a turquoise sea and fringed by white sands and coconut palms, welcome to Cocana Resort – the best luxury resort in Gili Trawangan. Offering the ultimate luxury getaway experience on one of the most beautiful islands of Indonesia.
