Latest news with #Kempinski
Forbes
16-07-2025
- Forbes
Pump Up The Posh: Three Ways To Do Istanbul In Style
Sprawling across the shores of two continents, Istanbul occupies one of the world's most spectacular ... More locations. With more than 18 million visitors each year, Istanbul has emerged as one of the world's most popular urban destinations. And rightfully so. From world-famous landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace to exquisite Turkish cuisine, exotic shopping and waterfront landscapes that rivals Sydney and San Francisco, the metropolis on the Bosporus is truly stunning. The challenge is how to explore Istanbul in the utmost style. If money is no object, what are the best ways to stay, eat and move around? Read on to find out . . . Transitioning from monarchs to mere mortals, the Çırağan Palace is now the all-suite wing of the ... More Kempinski Istanbul hotel. (Photo by Nicolas Economou) Sleep in a Palace The Ottoman Empire may have faded away a century ago, but the Bosporus waterway is still flanked by palaces once occupied by sultans and their families or high-ranking courtiers. What does one do with an extravagant structure that no longer hosts royal residents? You transform it into a luxury hotel, of course. Like the Çırağan Palace, which now serves as the all-suite wing of the Kempinski Istanbul along the waterfront of the Yıldız neighborhood. Originally constructed in the 1860s for Sultan Abdulaziz, the flamboyant wood-and-marble structure was later gutted by fire but reincarnated in the 1990s as a luxury hotel. Paying homage to the past, the design reflects the European-inspired, over-the-top style of the late Ottoman period. The über-elegant Peninsula Istanbul sprawls through four buildings on the Karaköy waterfront including two historic Ottoman structures and the old Yolcu Salonu steamship terminal, a Bauhaus-style building opened in 1940. There's plenty to love about this five-star abode, from an atrium lobby lounge and restaurant where seagoing passengers once took their first steps in Istanbul to the waterfront infinity pool, a private motor yacht for Bosporus tours, and an 'Academy' program featuring private guided tours with themes like Istanbul 007, Ottoman Art, and Photo Walk. The spacious suites come with views that encompass Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Asia on the other side of the strait. Ironically the city's most famous 'palace' was never a royal residence. Opened in 1895, the Pera Palace Hotelwas designed specifically to host passengers arriving in Istanbul aboard a brand-new transcontinental train service called the Orient Express. State of the art for the era, the Pera was the first in Constantinople (as the city was still called in those days) to feature an electric elevator and hot running water. All these years later, it's still a pretty posh place to crash. Blue tiles and iconic Turkish cuisine at the historic Pandeli Restaurant on the upper level of ... More Istanbul's Egyptian Spice Bazaar. (Photo by Esra Bilgin) Feast Like a Sultan One of the world's great culinary traditions, Turkish food offers an array of tastes and textures that reflect its position on the cusp of Middle East and Southern Europe. And it doesn't get any better than Istanbul, a crossroads that's been attracting foodies since Roman times. The problem (if you can call it that) is deciding where to dine among the city's 15,000 restaurants. Yet there are some that stand out among the crowd. Michelin devotees head for Turk Fatih Tutak, a modern two-star eatery in the high-rise Bomonti neighborhood on the periphery of central Istanbul. Under the guidance of chef/owner Fatih Tutak, the open-plan kitchen creates an ever-changing Micro Seasonal Tasting Menu that reinterprets traditional Turkish recipes in modern ways. This adventure in eating normally lasts around three hours. At the opposite end of the Istanbul dining spectrum is Pandeli in the Egyptian Spice Bazaar near the Galata Bridge. Opened in 1901 during the waning days of the Ottoman era, the restaurant is renowned for both its vintage blue-and-white décor and traditional dishes like döner kebab, lamb shank, and stuffed vine leaves. Pandeli boasts a single Michelin star. Yet perhaps a better recommendation is a long list of discerning diners that includes Audrey Hepburn, Queen Elizabeth II and Kemal Atatürk. Another atmospheric eatery is Olden 1772, which occupies the gorgeously restored courtyard of an 18th-century han (caravanserai) near the spice bazaar. Besides what is arguably the most impressive bar in Istanbul, the restaurant is incredibly romantic whether you're dropping in for lunch or dinner or innovative craft cocktails like the Çeşni (Johnnie Walker Black Ruby, black mulberry molasses, lemon juice, Chambord raspberry liqueur and yoghurt cream). For a deeper dive into vintage Ottoman cuisine, ferry across the Bosporus to Kadıköy and make your way through the warren of fish and produce stalls to Çiya Sofrası. Owner Musa Dağdeviren is both a chef and a culinary detective who scours Türkiye for bygone recipes and ingredients for dishes like Blessed Thistle with Lamb, Veal Shank with Quince, and Wild Purslane with Black-Eyed Peas. The Turkish version of tapas, mezze reaches heavenly heights at Karaköy Lokantası, a Michelin one-star establishment near the new Galataport development. The super-popular eatery (be sure to make a reservation) offers more than 80 small plates in a chic, modern dining room wrapped in glass and glazed tiles. Among the highlights are seafood dishes like salted bonito, stuffed mussels and tarama fish roe paste — especially tasty with a shot of top-shelf raki. Olden 1772 restaurant and bar occupies the restored main courtyard of an 18th-century "han" ... More (caravanserai). Escaping the Crowds Istanbul's iconic sights get incredibly crowded. Yet there are ways to beat at least part of the crowd. The official websites for both Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace offer links to a Get Your Guide website listing local agencies with guided tours of the historic structures that include a 'fast pass' to skip the long lines to purchase tickets outside these venues. Both of those landmarks are also included in a smartphone Istanbul Tourist Pass that offers admission to more than 100 major sights and museums around the city. Istanbul's streets and public transport are also notoriously crowded. All of the major sights on the peninsula (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace) are within easy walking distance of one another. But elsewhere, getting around can be a major pain. Luxury transport services offer a quick and easy solution. While agencies like Istanbul Limousine specialize in getting you to/from the airport, they also hire cars and drivers by the hour, day or even a week for touring the city. Rates fluctuate depending on the vehicle, from an ordinary sedan or van at the lower end to a Mercedes Sprinter or S Class sedan at the higher end. It even gets crowded on the water, a multitude of jam-packed tourist boats flitting up and down the Bosporus. The alternative is chartering your own boat with a skipper and staff, as well as drinks and snacks. That way you can venture anywhere along the fabled waterway and cruise for as long as you like. Private Istanbul Cruise boasts a fleet or sleek motor yachts that can be hired for two hours or more. Escape the crowds by hiring a private boat for a couple of hours to cruise up and down the Bosporus ... More at your leisure.
The Independent
02-07-2025
- The Independent
Best hotels in Cancun, from family getaways to wellness escapes
Cancun is the epitome of the Mexican beach getaway. Flawlessly placed in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean, its powdery beaches and clear waters create the perfect setting for sun-filled days where worries fade into the horizon. Beloved by families and couples, it's also a top destination for groups – from large business conventions to bachelor/bachelorette parties and, yes, spring breakers. Many of Cancun's top hotels (like Kempinski and JW Marriott) are concentrated around its iconic Zona Hotelera, conveniently located near restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, while others stand in the surrounding Riviera Maya area. For the following selection, we chose hotels no more than 40 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, keeping you as close to the action as possible – or as far from it as you want. Best hotels in Cancun 2025 At a glance Cristina Alonso 1. SHA Mexico hotel Costa Mujeres, Quintana Roo Who hasn't dreamed of getting away from it all for a few days of absolute rest and renovation? SHA exists for that precise purpose. Founded in 2008, the Spanish brand landed in the Mexican Caribbean in 2024, bringing its world-renowned SHA Method. The comprehensive wellness programme means that every single element of your stay will benefit your health: mental, physical, and spiritual. Choose between focused programmes like Advanced Longevity, Detox & Optimal Weight, and Recover & Energize, or opt for a fully tailored programme that adapts to your needs with the stunning natural surroundings as part of your journey. Address: Carretera a Punta Sam 84, 777420, Cancún, Quintana Roo 2. Chablé Maroma hotel Punta Maroma, Quintana Roo Situated amidst a seemingly endless stretch of sand and sea, Chablé Maroma celebrates the unique riches of the Mexican Caribbean. Every element of the experience here is infused with a deep love and respect for Mexico – from the excellent dining offerings, led by Chef Jorge Vallejo of Mexico City's renowned Quintonil, to the soulful wellness experiences, including a healing ritual inspired by the sea. Days here can be spent in pursuit of adventure – how about diving in a cenote (a natural sinkhole)? – of culinary knowledge – check out the Mayan recipe class – or of total relaxation under the sun. 3. The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo Inspired by the Pleiades star cluster, highly regarded in Mayan culture, the spectacular St. Regis Kanai floats above an ocean of green – a mangrove forest that expands until it meets the sea. The resort's modern, eye-catching architecture blends with naturally-inspired elements like ceramic lamps and wooden headboards, honouring its unique surroundings. St. Regis fans will find the brand's signature touch in elements like the Afternoon Tea Ritual and its Butler Service, blended with locally-infused experiences like Night Sky Observation sessions and Clay Art Classes. With 194 guest rooms, 19 suites, and a Presidential Suite, it's as fitting for couples as it is for families or groups of friends. Address: Paseo Kanai 15, Solidaridad, 77730, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 4. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo An explosion of colour and fun, this 280-suite guest room is a kid-friendly dream come to life – a place where SpongeBob joins the family photo, and getting bathed in neon-green slime is the utmost honour. Entertainment options are enough to keep the kids happy and energised throughout your stay, courtesy of the expansive six-acre Aqua Nick water park featuring a Lazy River, tons of slides, and a Paw Patrol area – while grown-ups get their own VIP treatment at the Náay Spa. Make the most of its all-inclusive rates and stay alert for frequent seasonal promotions. Address: Km 45 Carretera Cancun–Tulum, 77710, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo 5. Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo Sleek sophistication and deep relaxation define the Waldorf Astoria, one of the latest additions to the Riviera Maya landscape. Each of its 173 guest rooms and suites features a private balcony and a jet tub, plus luxurious amenities like Frette linens and locally-infused crafts. The resort's pristine beach and serene waters create the perfect setting for activities like paddle boarding and kayaking, while two infinity pools welcome guests of all ages for hours of refreshing bliss. The varied culinary offerings range from the elegant Malpeque, serving a fire and smoke-based menu, to the chic Peacock Alley bar, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap. 6. Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo This dreamy resort's name holds a promise: an ethereal, soothing stay filled with moments of calm and bliss. Located in the gorgeous Kanai complex, Etéreo is surrounded by lush mangroves that create a deep connection with nature. With only 75 studio-style rooms and suites, outfitted with contemporary furniture, local crafts, and carved wooden walls by Mexican artist Manuel Felguérez, the resort feels secluded and private, yet offers plenty of opportunities for connection and discovery. Delve into Mexican spirits during a guided tasting, learn the secrets of the Mayan calendar with a local astrologist, or share a fresh seafood-based feast at Che Che, a casual Japanese-meets-Mexican spot. 7. Rosewood Mayakoba hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo It's hard to picture a more idyllic setting than Mayakoba: an emerald lagoon surrounded by lush mangroves that end where the sea begins. Within this unique setting stands Rosewood Mayakoba, featuring 129 exquisite suites – to which you check in by boat – with expansive terraces and plunge pools. Dining is one of the main draws here: from shareable feasts at the enchanting La Ceiba Garden to fish tacos at the laid-back Aquí Me Quedo beach club, all the way to spectacular craft cocktails at the awarded Zapote Bar. Wellness enthusiasts will love the offerings at Sense, A Rosewood Spa, where local healing traditions meet state-of-the-art products and techniques. Address: Carretera Cancun–Playa del Carmen Km 298, 77710, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo Book now 8. Nizuc Resort & Spa hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo An extensive 12-hectare enclave becomes your personal paradise once you cross the doors to Nizuc. Spacious suites with modern furnishings are uniquely designed for couples or families, while private villas offer their own infinity pools and the perfect setting for a group or family escape. Entertainment abounds throughout the day, from snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and tennis lessons at the courts to craft-making for the little ones at Winik's Kids Club and live jazz-infused cocktails for the adults. After an action-packed day, how about a contemporary Mexican dinner at Ramona or a Mediterranean-inspired feast at Terra Nostra? Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 21.26, 77500, Cancun, Quintana Roo 9. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo A Cancun classic, the JW Marriott places you in the heart of the action – the perfect starting point for exploring Cancun's culinary landscape, its nightlife scene, and stunning cultural and natural attractions, making the most of the hotel's tour offerings. There's plenty to enjoy on the property, too. Find your perfect spot to lounge under the sun by the Caribbean's azure waters or the lovely outdoor pools –one for families, one for adults– book a fitness class at Sens Yah Spa; or share a generous paella and a bottle of wine at the newly-opened Bravio Spanish Cuisine. 10. Atelier Playa Mujeres hotel Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo Those who hold a grudge against all-inclusive resorts have clearly never visited Atelier Playa Mujeres. Bathed by the serene waters of Playa Mujeres, this modern all-suite resort offers a fantastic all-inclusive deal that includes unlimited dining at its more than 25 dining outlets –including María Dolores, led by renowned chef Edgar Núñez– access to a premium minibar, and even special amenities for dogs through the Pet-It program. The all-adult resort features 593 suites with gorgeous views of the sea and the Greg Norman-designed golf course. Best of all, many of them give way to water terraces that take the concept of private pools to a whole new level. 11. Kempinski Hotel Cancun Cancun, Quintana Roo Fans of old-school glamour will find their place at this Cancun hotel – a grand, 363-room building standing elegantly by the shores of the Mexican Caribbean. Bedecked in light, calming hues, guest rooms and suites await with airy balconies, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee with the warm morning breeze. With two pools and an impressive stretch of beach, it's hard to find a better plan than hanging out under the sun. As the day winds down, head to Kayantá Spa for the Ek Chuah Journey, featuring the region's most iconic and healing ingredients: a coffee scrub, a cacao wrap and a honey balm. Crown the evening with a Mediterranean dinner at Fantino. 12. Hard Rock Hotel Cancun Cancun, Quintana Roo Eclectic decor, inspiring views, and plenty of attitude: staying at this Cancun hotel is a constant invitation to make the most of every second. An unbeatable deal for groups of friends and families, your all-inclusive fare allows you to get in full vacation mode, enjoying all your meals and drinks (including room service), plus fantastic entertainment programming, without worrying about prices. Five restaurants –including Mexican, Asian, and Italian options– the Rock Spa, and stunning swimming pools are just the beginning. Music fans can't miss The Sound of Your Journey, a programme with access to exclusive playlists, Fender guitar rentals and in-room record players. Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 14.5, 77500, Cancun, Quintana Roo Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert travel writers, each with a deep knowledge of their destination. As a travel writer, Cristina visits the Mexican Caribbean constantly, both for work and pleasure. The area's natural beauty is a constant source of amazement, as are its incredibly varied hospitality offerings. When picking which hotels to include, they consider their own experience staying in the hotels and evaluate location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller. FAQs What is the best month to travel to Cancun? With a privileged Caribbean location, Cancun has an average temperature of 80°C year-round. The winter season (between December and April) is the most popular, with snowbirds escaping the cold and locals making the most of Christmas and Easter breaks. Summer brings another peak – as well as higher temperatures and humidity. While the rainy season (between June and November) brings showers and humidity, it also means there are smaller crowds and lower prices. What currency do I need? It's always a good idea to have a few hundred Mexican pesos in cash – especially if you're buying snacks or small souvenirs – but you can essentially operate in US Dollars. Is Cancun cheap or expensive? As one of Mexico's most popular destinations, Cancun caters to a wide audience, both domestic and international, and its price range reflects it. You can find excellent deals – especially at all-inclusive resorts – go super high-end at luxury resorts, and everything in between. Seasonality affects prices, so plan ahead and keep your eyes open for shoulder-season deals. What is Cancun famous for? Miles of sandy beaches bathed by turquoise seas make Cancun one of the most beloved destinations by Mexican and foreign travellers alike. Its varied hotel selection makes it as appealing for groups of friends and families as it is for couples. Cancun's location makes it the perfect starting point to explore wonders like Maya archaeological sites, cenotes, and nearby destinations like Isla Mujeres and Tulum. Its nightlife and culinary offerings also make it a favourite among those who love the good life.
Zawya
26-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Global Hotel Alliance Brand CEOs see steady growth in travel demand despite market uncertainty
RELATED TOPICS TRAVEL RELATED COMPANIES Rotana Corinthia Group Kempinski Hotels Un Tourism Leaders from top independent hotel brands highlight loyalty-driven resilience, US dominance, the rise of Asian markets, and European expansion at CEO meeting in Brussels Positive outlook despite global uncertainty with strong Q1 results and continued momentum US top demand generator globally and particularly in Europe China and India are burgeoning outbound markets that GHA and hotel brands can tap into GHA brands generated 4.6mn room nights in Europe in 2024 GHA DISCOVERY loyalty platform key to driving resilience, revenue, and repeat guests Brussels, Belgium: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, convened in Brussels last week for its annual CEO meeting, bringing together leaders from across its portfolio of more than 45 hotel brands to explore the evolving landscape of global travel – and the outlook was unanimously optimistic. Hosted at the elegant new Corinthia Hotel Brussels, the event welcomed more than 30 CEOs and senior representatives from GHA hotel brands around the world to address shared challenges and opportunities impacting the hospitality industry. With a surge in Asian outbound travel, the sustained strength of the US market, and a solid Q1 2025 performance for GHA brands, tourism has been on an upward trajectory, they said. Leaders also aligned on the qualities essential for navigating ongoing uncertainty – adaptability, resilience, and collaboration emerged as critical to long-term success. 'We are operating in a volatile global environment, but as an industry, we have learned to adapt and stay agile in response to these fluctuations, and therefore remain optimistic,' said Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance. 'Travel demand is rising, particularly in the luxury and upscale segments where we specialise, and the strength of our alliance – driven by our loyalty platform, GHA DISCOVERY – positions our brands to capitalise on this momentum, particularly as many emerging growth markets are yet to reach their full potential.' Hartley moderated the event's headline panel discussion, 'Navigating the Future of Travel', which included key insights from Simon Naudi, Managing Director & Group CEO of Corinthia Group; Barbara Muckermann, Group CEO of Kempinski Hotels; Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor Hotels; and Choe Peng Sum, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group. He opened the event with a tourism landscape snapshot, citing UN Tourism data revealing more than 300 million tourists travelled globally in Q1 2025, up 5% on Q1 2024, and 3% ahead of pre-pandemic levels. The robust performance came despite the sector facing a range of geopolitical and trade tensions, as well as high inflation in travel and tourism services. Europe, long a bellwether for global travel trends, welcomed 125 million international arrivals from January to March, a 2% rise over 2024, led by markets like Spain, which posted 9% growth, whileTurkey (+7%), Greece, Italy and Portugal (all +4%) also saw healthy Q1 2025 growth, while France reported a 6% increase for the period, according to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism. Strong performance in Europe, with the US leading demand The 363 properties operated by 17 GHA hotel brands in Europe delivered US$1.1 billion in revenue from GHA DISCOVERY loyalty members in 2024. European members of GHA DISCOVERY were among the most active, spending $733 million on the continent and $417 million further afield. Across the board, the US market was cited as the top international source of guests. All four CEOs confirmed that US travellers were the single largest contributor to their hotel revenues. 'One-third of our customers are from the US and this will remain a key market for us going forward,' revealed Simon Naudi, Managing Director & Group CEO Corinthia Group. 'But we're also focused on new markets in Asia. India and China have huge outbound potential, and we're seeing more affluent travellers from these markets coming to Europe.' Asia rising, led by China and India Q1 2025 data from UN Tourism showed a 12% year-on-year increase in international arrivals to Asia and the Pacific, the fastest of any region. Panellists agreed that the burgeoning middle classes in China and India with an appetite for 'experiences and exploration', represent enormous opportunity. 'The China and India outbound markets are exploding,' said Choe Peng Sum, CEO Pan Pacific Hotels Group. 'Unless you know how to tap into those markets, particularly the FIT sector, you'll miss out. That's where the alliance can help. We can pivot, we can be nimble – and that's key.' GHA's loyalty ecosystem delivers resilience and growth In addition to scale and reach, CEOs emphasised the unique advantage of belonging to the GHA ecosystem, empowering independent brands to maintain their identity while benefiting from collective reach and repeat business. 'The beautiful part of the alliance is that our hotels retain their DNA,' said Choe. 'For the guest, that's powerful. And it works – in Tokyo, 70% of our bookings came through GHA DISCOVERY within three months of opening.' Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO Minor Hotels, which operates more than 300 hotels in Europe, added: 'GHA DISCOVERY offers simplicity, choice, and value; guests can choose from 850 unique hotels around the world and earn DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) instead of complicated points, and that keeps them in the ecosystem, spending and staying with the growing number of hotels in the loyalty programme.' Expansion continues across key global markets All four CEOs shared significant expansion plans. Corinthia recently opened hotels in New York, Bucharest and Brussels, with Rome to follow later this year. Kempinski remains the leading luxury brand in Germany, with a history and heritage that resonates with clients in the US, Middle East and UK in particular. Minor Hotels, already Europe's largest operator in Spain, is adding 30 hotels across the region, while Pan Pacific is using its high-performing London flagship as a launchpad for further European growth. Barbara Muckermann, CEO, Kempinski Hotels, noted that while global headwinds exist, the outlook is positive: 'Whenever there's uncertainty, there are opportunities. We are not seeing a slowdown in travel; in fact, we believe the next five years will be exceptionally strong for our industry. China is a sleeping giant, and it's waking up.' Outlook for 2025 and beyond: resilient and rising All indicators point to sustained travel growth with UN Tourism sticking to its January projection of 3% to 5% growth in international arrivals for 2025, noted Hartley. GHA is aligned – having posted record results in 2024 with $2.7 billion in hotel stay revenue, this upward trajectory continues in 2025 with Q1 revenue up 15% to $746 million. Meanwhile, Minor Hotels has reported a record Q1 in 2025, revealed Minor's Rajakarier. The alliance also continues to grow its portfolio. With new brands like Cinnamon Hotels (Sri Lanka), Sunway (Malaysia) and Rotana joining in 2025, GHA is fast approaching the 1,000-property milestone. 'Independent brands want to remain unique, but they also want reach – that's what GHA offers,' said Hartley. 'And as more travellers look for authentic, luxurious, and experiential stays, our model delivers exactly that.' He added: 'Our goal has always been to create value for our hotel brands and GHA DISCOVERY members alike. We've built a platform that's simple, powerful, and growing fast, which is key to driving resilience and repeat guest revenue.' GHA DISCOVERY is complimentary to join, and travellers can sign up online or download the GHA DISCOVERY app and register on their mobile phones. Travellers can also connect with GHA DISCOVERY on Instagram and Facebook. About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 45 brands and 850 hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme—GHA DISCOVERY—provides 30 million members recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning.
Skift
20-06-2025
- 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
Khaleej Times
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
6 cool things to do in the UAE this weekend: Ladies' nights, snow-cations, zipline thrills and more
Looking for a fun-filled weekend across the UAE? Whether you're in the mood for high-flying adventures, stylish brunches, alpine-style escapes, or cutting-edge nightlife, this roundup has something for everyone. From Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, here are six standout experiences to add to your plans — including a new croissant-crust pizza, a karaoke-filled ladies' night, and a thrilling zipline-meets-burger combo. Here's the list: Summer thrill combo Soar through the skies and sink your teeth into a juicy reward. This summer, every XLine Dubai booking comes with a Five Guys meal voucher — valid for a burger, hot dog, or sandwich plus a drink. From June to August, enjoy the world's longest urban zipline as you fly 'superman-style' over Dubai Marina at 80 km/h, then refuel at any Five Guys outlet across the UAE. Kick off the weekend in style every Thursday at Luxuria's PINK CODE night — a glamorous affair of karaoke, elegance, and free-flowing bubbly. From 9pm to 11pm, ladies can sip on complimentary grape and sparkling beverages while competing in the Best Song Performance contest. Dress to impress and bring your crew for a night of Russian-inspired flair and fun. Winter in summer Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind summer snow-cation at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. Escape the heat with a stay in the luxurious Aspen Ski Chalets, offering cosy alpine vibes, faux fur throws, a crackling fireplace, and stunning views of Ski Dubai. It's the perfect blend of mountain charm and city convenience — right in the heart of Dubai. Head to Ras Al Khaimah Check out Rixos Al Mairid's X Lounge, the UAE's largest Rixos entertainment hub in Ras Al Khaimah. Spanning 2,400 sqm with space for 500 guests, the venue will blend live music, immersive shows, and premium hospitality in a sleek, modern setting. Expect beachy daytime vibes and high-energy nights, with themed events, international acts, and a sensory-rich atmosphere. X Lounge is set to redefine nightlife and entertainment in the northern emirate. Try the Croissant Pizza Papa Johns has introduced its latest creation — the Croissant Pizza, now available across the UAE. Combining the flaky, buttery texture of a croissant with bold pizza flavours, this limited-time offering features a light, layered crust and customisable toppings. As part of the global launch, Papa Johns has also teamed up with designer KidSuper to release a limited-edition hot bag inspired by the pizza's craftsmanship. Available for a limited time. Saturday Brunch Experience a chic French-inspired afternoon at the Bisou Bisou Brunch at Tête-à-Tête, FIVE LUXE, JBR. Every Saturday from 1pm to 4:30pm, indulge in a three-course menu filled with South of France flavours, complemented by free-flowing drinks and vibrant live entertainment including vocals, piano, and dancers. Packages start at Dh350, with an optional after-party at Paradiso Dubai offering three drinks and three tapas for Dh250, or just three drinks for Dh150.
