Latest news with #Scandinavian-inspired

Hospitality Net
20-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Radisson Hotel Group Opens Manchester's First Radisson-Branded Hotel and Company's First Verified Net Zero Hotel
Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, has opened its doors, bringing a fresh addition to the city's hotel offering and delivering a stylish stay in an unrivalled central location. It is Radisson Hotel Group's first hotel to open that has achieved Verified Net Zero status, achieving 2040 requirements of the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels today. Following an extensive refurbishment, Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, brings an upgraded hospitality experience, located just steps from the AO Arena and Manchester Victoria train station. The hotel provides the perfect location for those visiting the renowned arena - a leading music, events and entertainment venue - either as a place to enjoy a sustainable stay or somewhere to enjoy dinner and drinks before heading to a show. The neighboring Manchester Victoria station has connections both locally across the Greater Manchester region and nationally. Calming influence through design The clean and modern Scandinavian-inspired design of Radisson is ready to be experienced in all 252 guest rooms and suites, providing balance, wellbeing and a calming environment, featuring neutral tones and natural design elements. A welcoming bar and restaurant offers guests a variety of dishes and an outdoor terrace, ensuring a memorable stay for both leisure and business visitors. The hotel is tailored for groups and family get-togethers, with rooms featuring two double beds as well as open-plan spaces for relaxing and socializing. Guests can unwind in the tranquil spa, with a range of beauty treatments on offer as well as enjoying the heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Additionally, the hotel is the perfect venue for a wide range of meetings or celebrations, boasting state-of-the-art event facilities with capacity for up to 220 attendees. Leading the way with Net Zero operations With the launch of two Verified Net Zero Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group is setting the gold standard for sustainable hospitality. The other hotel is Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, opening in July. The Verified Net Zero program is comprehensive and includes the carbon footprint from energy use (Scopes 1 & 2 as defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol or GHG), as well as the hotel's operational and supply chain footprint (Scope 3). Actions include the use of 100% renewable energy, achieved through electrification of hotels and/or by the purchase of 100% renewable energy for all hotel functions from heating, cooling, hot water to cooking and spa & pool facilities. Next to overhauling operations to minimize waste, re-evaluating supply chains with a focus on Food & Beverage, and other sources of emissions such as hotel related transportation to minimize emissions. All remaining emissions are compensated using Nature Based carbon credits from carbon removal in partnership with Agreena, the largest soil carbon program in Europe, supporting over 2,300 farmers to regenerate more than 4.5 million hectares of European farmland. The opportunity to stay at a Verified Net Zero property allows guests to become part of a forward-thinking movement that combines comfort and innovation with sustainability. Verified Net Zero properties do this through three key features: 100% renewable energy, low-carbon menus, and by being a minimal waste hotel. Radisson Hotel Group's Verified Net Zero properties give guests the unique opportunity to stay in a hotel knowing their stay has a net-zero carbon footprint. Renewable energy and low carbon menus Using 100% renewable energy sources means that Verified Net Zero hotels do not depend on using environmentally damaging fossil fuels for heating, cooling, hot water, and cooking. The Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, has installed heat pumps to generate hot water. Together with a fully electrified kitchen using induction cooking, the hotel is fully eliminating gas use. Because the hotel buys 100% renewable electricity, none of the electricity used at the hotel comes from fossil fuels. Radisson Hotel Group partnered with Klimato - a specialized partner from Sweden - to develop low-carbon menus by analyzing the entire food offering for in-room dining menus, M&E menus and the breakfast buffet, curating recipes to lower their overall carbon footprint. Guests are informed by clear labels, ranking recipes' carbon footprints from A (best) to E (worst). Menus focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients while reducing recipe carbon footprints by up to 40%, without compromising on taste. New measures are in place to minimize waste based on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle principles. Guests can rest assured a maximum of the waste will be avoided or recycled, and none of the waste goes to landfill. Impressive location Within a few minutes' walk of the Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, sits the city's finest shopping, cultural and leisure destinations, including Selfridges, Corn Exchange Manchester, Manchester Cathedral & the National Football Museum. The property complements Radisson Hotel Group's existing portfolio in Manchester, which includes Radisson Blu Hotel, Manchester Airport and The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel. Hotel website


Emirates Woman
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
Where to Sip: 20 cafés redefining Dubai's coffee culture
Life by Sarah Joseph 1 hour ago VIEW GALLERY/ 20 IMAGES With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these aesthetic cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book. Dubai's burgeoning food scene is growing by the day. Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine. View this post on Instagram A post shared by La Nena Coffee (@lanenacoffee) From Scandinavian-inspired coffee shops to nature-fuelled cafés, these spots not only offer delicious food but also provide a visually appealing atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning photos. If you're looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we've compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit. For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @portrayingmystyle_


Buzz Feed
27-04-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
People With Asthma And Allergies Share The Air Purifiers That 'Actually Make A Difference'
I was surprised to find out that indoor air quality is often worse than the quality of air outside, per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). But it makes sense: Indoor spaces can be replete with pent-up dust, accumulated dander, stagnant pollen and dirt — among other creepy-crawly allergens. Amazon For folks who deal with allergies or asthma, this conundrum takes on a different level of urgency, taking a toll on health and well-being — especially because, as the EPA also reports, Americans are indoors about 90% of the time. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) recommends using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to help remove allergens from the air. People with allergies and asthma concur, sharing with HuffPost via email, phone and Facebook the purifiers that really make a difference in their symptoms. Every option features HEPA filtration, and investing in one may even save you money over time: multiple Amazon reviewers write that with the help of their purifiers, their inhalers are now lasting longer, helping cut costs from their budgets. 1. A Scandinavian-inspired BlueAir air purifier Amazon "I have the BlueAir 411 purifier, which I was inspired to get from bloggers Young House Love," wrote Lena M. over email. "Within a couple of days, I noticed I wasn't waking up with the usually stuffy nose or waking up overnight from snoring, etc. In an interesting twist, I got my purifier within weeks of the start of California wildfire season. It was a lifesaver ... Any time I sleep away from it, I notice a difference in my breathing and quality of sleep." I own this same purifier and love it, both for its unobtrusive, minimalist style and for the huge difference it makes for the air quality in my 15-by-15-foot room. As soon as it's on, I can feel the difference in the air — it feels crisper and fresher. I no longer sneeze and itch from dust, pollen, pet dander and who knows what. It's also blissfully quiet, so it's not a bother to keep on in the background at night and throughout the day. It utilizes a dual-filtration HEPA system along with a machine-washable fabric pre-filter, cleaning up to 526 square feet. 2. Amazon Levoit is known for its top-of-the-line HEPA purifiers, which use triple filtration to rid air of microscopic airborne allergens and particles like pollutants, smoke, pet dander and dust. This Core300-P model is a favorite among users for its effectiveness and lack of noise. "It's made such a huge difference in the air quality of my living space," Lex G., a friend who owns it, said. "It's specifically built for people who have pets and helps to limit dander and hair in the air which both contribute to my allergies. I can tell the difference when I have it turned off." You can grab it in two colors or in a WiFi-enabled version so you can control it from your phone or via voice assistant; it can clean spaces up to 1,095 square feet. Promising review: "I have a cat who strayed into my life, and whom I totally love, despite being terribly allergic to him. My allergy and resultant asthma were really awful this past winter, and I bought this air filter out of desperation. When I received it in the mail, I couldn't believe how nice a product it was. This is not some cheaply made item, but reminds me of how many products were years ago: simply made well. And the best thing is, my asthma is so much better now after this purchase. I can barely believe it! I have since bought a smaller version (also nice) for my little study, and will probably buy another large one at some point. Want to add that I love the sound of the air filter too. The first two are fairly quiet, with the third louder but (to me) lulling rather than disturbing. I cannot vouch this will work for everyone who has allergy problems, but I would say it's worth a try!" — m-chan Amazon Lex also relies on this allergen-reducing Honeywell HPA200 purifier for keeping air clean in the rest of their home (it's made for large rooms up to 310 feet, though it can clean up to 1,500 square feet hourly). "It recycles all the air," Lex explained, noting it helps their breathing. "I would repurchase it in a heartbeat." Promising review: "I purchased this model because I am an asthma and allergy sufferer and I was looking for something very effective at a good price range. I hooked this thing up in my bedroom (left the door open) and went downstairs for about 30 minutes. When I went back upstairs I could notice a difference in the air. The next day I left it on the allergen setting and when I got home from work and my bedroom smelled like it had never been inhabited. My allergies are lighter in my bedroom than in any other room in the house as my roommate has a dog I am allergic to. In bed my eyes used to burn and I would reach for my inhaler quite frequently. Now my eyes are fine and I barely need my inhaler. Well worth the money. It's actually saving me money as my inhaler is now lasting much longer." — STEVE-007 5. A powerhouse Winix purifier with over 23,000 5-star ratings Amazon Reviewers call this tried-and-true Winix purifier the " best investment" for helping with airborne pet dander and allergies; one even said they "can literally feel the sinus inflammation going away" thanks to its work. It's a sure bet for improving indoor air: "My house feels less stuffy," Elizabeth C. wrote of the model on Facebook. It's designed for spaces up to 360 square feet. Promising review: "BIRD OWNER HERE. I love that you can turn off the ionization setting so that this product is safe for birds! No harmful ozone buildup! I am VERY asthmatic and was suffering greatly due to dust, allergies, and bird dander. Within hours of running this machine, I could tell that it was WORKING. I used to sneeze and wheeze and I was not sleeping well at all. I used to wake up several times a night needing to use my inhaler or do a breathing treatment, but ever since I got this air purifier, I SLEEP THROUGH THE NIGHT. I haven't even had to use my inhaler at all! This thing has radically changed my life. I no longer wake up with a headache and stuffy. I don't sneeze anymore. My allergies have almost disappeared. I don't wheeze, and I wake up feeling rested for the first time in months and months. I could seriously cry from happiness. My bird even seems happier and full of energy! I noticed today that even when I cook, the purifier can tell and the auto mode picks up on the air quality and kicks on. If you have kids, pets, asthma, lungs, a pulmonary system, or you just enjoy breathing, this thing is for you. I can't say enough about how awesome this purifier is." — Meagan B. 6. An enviable Dyson Cool Gen1 TP10 model This worth-the-splurge Dyson purifier and fan combo circulates filtered air while emitting a cool breeze. It oscillates up to 350 degrees and you can control it by remote — so you can adjust cleaning power and where you want the fan to hit without ever getting up. "I live close to the airport and can tell a big difference in the indoor air quality when using them," Pam M. said. "I can breathe and sleep better and have one in each bedroom of my house." Promising review: "I have several of these tall 'cool' fans for breeze, sound, and air purifying. (I also have several of the hot/cool shorter fans, also 5 stars for me!). These are dependable and start working to clear the air quickly. This particular one I set up in a basement gym to clear the air and within hours the air quality was so clean and fresh. I pretty much keep them on 24/7. Filters do not seem to need changing very frequently. I even take the shorter hot/cool fans/ heaters on car trips for lake houses and hotel rooms. Love these!" — Freebird888 Amazon "If I didn't have my two air purifiers, I do not know what I would do," Sherrie A. wrote, saying she deals with allergies from smoke and pollen, and regularly visits a pulmonologist and an allergist for support. "The filters are changed regularly and if that stuff was in my lungs!?!? Yes, they make a huge difference[.]" She relies on the Coway Airmega purifier, pictured (also available in white), as well as a unspecified GE Profile model. The Coway can clean air in spaces up to 361 square feet. Promising review: "I looked at various review sites and the purifier was at or near the top of every list and the price point to value was highly rated. I kinda though air purifiers were a gimmick, but I put it on my night stand and for the first time in ages, I had no congestion, no post-nasal drip, and no headache upon waking. It's been the same every night. I keep it on setting #2 and have two big stinky furry dogs and I think it helps a lot with their dander and fur and smells, especially on damp days. As others have notes, the sound is quiet on #1 and #2, but there's a huge jump in the at #3. If you like white noise, youll love it. For me #3 is a bit loud, but I crank it up during the day or when I feel my allergies bothering me. It's kind of weird looking, as if I have a mini front load washing machine on my nightstand, but I would buy it again and probably will get a model designed for larger rooms to place in my basement den. So, my takeaway is that this thing works really well, and In breathing better. The air quality sensor is a bright blue but you can turn that light off and in. I love it! Thanks for making it a little bit easier to get up each morning without the usual effects of kicked up dust, pet hair and dander causing me poor sleep and long tired days. I love it!" — Evelyn Amelia


NZ Herald
23-04-2025
- NZ Herald
Exploring Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Norway by cruise ship
After time in Reykjavik, our departure port, the ship sails around Iceland, stopping at three small communities along the coast. The journey continues to the seldom-visited Faroe Islands and deep into Norway's most majestic fjords, following ancient Viking sailing routes that once connected these cultures. Onboard the Viking Saturn It's only fitting that our ship is named the Viking Saturn. Viking Ocean Cruises offers a luxury, adult-focused cruising experience emphasising destination immersion and cultural enrichment. Their attention to detail was evident when I landed at 6.30am at the Reykjavik airport. On many cruises, you must wait until the afternoon to board. But a Viking representative met us upon arrival and whisked us to a buffet breakfast at the lovely Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik. We boarded the ship just a few hours later. Viking's mid-sized vessels (typically accommodating about 930 passengers) can access small ports that larger ships cannot. All staterooms have a veranda, meaning every cabin has a private balcony. The ships have Scandinavian-inspired designs with clean lines, light wood, and abundant natural light. I'm pleased to find that the spacious restroom in my stateroom has a heated floor. I especially like the calm, peaceful atmosphere onboard. There are many quiet nooks to escape with a book and large windows everywhere to capture the outside views. There are no casinos onboard, and while there is daily entertainment, the emphasis is comfort and destination rather than flashy activities. Another highlight is the spa. Its thermal suite, which includes a snow grotto, sauna, and hydrotherapy pool, is accessible to all passengers. Ísafjörður, Iceland After leaving Reykjavik, we arrive at the small village of Ísafjörður. Once a Viking trading post, it has a long tradition of fishing. Today, it's home to one of the largest fisheries in Iceland. On board, guests receive one complimentary excursion each day, but if you struggle to choose from the long list of great options, you can always purchase more. My friends and I join the guided tour of Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík, the northernmost village in the Westfjords. We visit the Ósvör Museum, a fascinating replica of an old fishing outpost. Fisherman Johann Hannibalsson, dressed in traditional garb, tells us about life in the past. Akureyri, Iceland Our next stop is Akureyri. Founded by a Viking leader in the 9th century, this small town is just 100km from the Arctic Circle. The must-see attraction in this region is the spectacular Waterfall of the Gods at Godafoss. Standing next to its roaring falls and viewing it from above is a memorable experience. One bucket-list activity I want to experience is soaking in one of Iceland's many geothermal hot springs. We get the chance to visit Myvatn Nature Baths that afternoon. Soaking in the milky blue waters surrounded by lava rock, it's easy to relax and savour the experience. Seydisfjordur, Iceland Our day in the tiny village of Seydisfjordur turns out to be a favourite. This community of 750 welcomes us with an invitation to their Viking Festival at the community centre. They serve us tasty bites prepared by a top local chef. Then, two local musicians perform. Afterwards, we shop at the craft market, where a small sign reads: 'We have made everything here with our own hands. Nothing is mass-produced but instead made with care by us.' Torshavn, Faroe Islands After a day at sea, we arrive at the mysterious Faroe Islands, which might just be Europe's best-kept secret. A remote autonomous territory of Denmark, the Faroe Islands consist of 18 islands. We visit the scenic capital of Torshavn. The islands receive a lot of rain, and tall green grass covers the landscape, including the roofs of many sod-roof houses. The population of 53,650 mainly speaks Faroese, the island's unique North Germanic tongue. Though it's Sunday when we arrive, some shops are open for us. After some shopping, my friends and I take Viking's Scenic Vistas and Coastal Villages bus tour. The skies swirl with dramatic clouds, which only sharpen the green grasses and blue coastal waters. It's like driving through a postcard. Geiringer, Norway After another day at sea, we arrive at Norway's dramatic coast. As we sail into the stunning Geiringerfjord, we pass tiny villages dotting the hillside and so many waterfalls that it looks like the mountains have sprung leaks. Advertise with NZME. We stop at the port town of Geiringer, where we meet our guided tour. Our expert driver moves along the winding road, passing 11 hairpin turns, until we reach the famous Eagle's Bend viewpoint. At the top, I'm wowed by the view. Now I understand why Geiringerfjord has become a Unesco World Heritage Site. We continue on for more views of the green Flydal Valley to the high mountain Djupvatn Lake, offering one picturesque view after another. Flåm, Norway Sailing into the gorgeous Sognefjord, we arrive at the seaside village of Flåm. Our included bus tour takes us up into the hills above Aurlandsfjord, which has a reputation as one of the world's most scenic places. After seeing the narrow fjord, steep mountains, and waterfalls, I can understand why. Ålesund, Norway Norway isn't just about pretty sights. In Ålesund, my friend Pat and I sign up for an invigorating e-bike tour of Hessa Island, and our e-bikes are some of the lightest and best I've ever ridden. We follow our guide through the tidy streets of Ålesund, past stone buildings, quiet homes and stately churches to Hessa Island, where our guide regales us with Norway's WWII history as we ride along the coast. Bergen, Norway Our final port is the Norwegian town of Bergen. Founded in 1070 as a Viking settlement, it quickly became a centre for the Hanseatic League. Those times can still be seen in the Bryggen District along the wharf, which dates to 1360. Today, its brightly coloured wooden houses are listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Viking has arranged an excellent guide for our city tour. He shares historical and current insight on the region. Fun fact: Frozen pizza is one of the most popular local dishes in Norwegian homes. Sure enough, a peek in the grocer reveals a vast section of frozen pizza. Afterward, we stroll through shops and cafes in the Bryggen District. As I take one last look at Bergen's colourful Bryggen District before heading to the airport, I'm struck by how this voyage has woven together three distinct Nordic cultures. Following ancient Viking sea routes aboard the aptly named Viking Saturn has revealed these lands as explorers first saw them so long ago—from the water. Details


Trade Arabia
14-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Radisson Hotel Group introduces brand to Armenia
Radisson Hotel Group expands its presence in Armenia with the opening of Radisson Hotel & Spa Gyumri, marking the debut of the Radisson brand in the country. Located in Gyumri, Armenia's second-largest city and a renowned cultural hub, the hotel brings Radisson's signature Scandinavian-inspired hospitality to the heart of this historic destination. Situated adjacent to the city's main square, Radisson Hotel & Spa Gyumri offers 64 elegantly designed rooms, reflecting the brand's signature aesthetic — bright, functional, and inviting spaces that create a perfectly balanced environment for a seamless stay. Maria Znova, Senior Director of Business Development at Radisson Hotel Group, shares: "We are thrilled to introduce the Radisson brand to Armenia with the opening of Radisson Hotel & Spa Gyumri. This milestone reflects our commitment to growing our presence across the Caucasus and Central Asia. We are proud to collaborate with Alecpol Projects Management and look forward to a successful partnership as we continue expanding in this dynamic region." Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the iconic Alexandra Spa Center, a historically protected building dating back to the late 1880s. Recognized across the Caucasus for its world-class spa facilities, the center features multiple saunas, hammams, pools, Jacuzzis, and an expert team of therapists offering massages and wellness treatments. For business and event travelers, Radisson Hotel & Spa Gyumri offers versatile meeting and event spaces, tailored to accommodate a variety of gatherings, from corporate meetings to special celebrations. The addition of Radisson Hotel & Spa Gyumri strengthens Radisson Hotel Group's growth strategy in Armenia, following the success of Radisson Blu Hotel, Yerevan, which opened in 2016. This opening marks the Group's 17th property in operation and development across the Caucasus and Central Asia.