Latest news with #luxuryhospitality
Travel Weekly
a day ago
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Residential cruise line Crescent Seas chooses a CEO
Thatcher Brown has been named CEO of Crescent Seas. Brown, who most recently was Virtuoso's senior vice president of global products, will take the helm at the new residential cruise company on Aug. 1. Thatcher Brown Photo Credit: Crescent Seas Brown has worked in luxury hospitality and cruise for more than 25 years, including at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, Four Seasons Yachts, MSC Cruises, Dream Cruises and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. Russell Galbut launched Crescent Seas in March. Its first ship, the Navigator Residence at Sea, is expected to begin sailing in December 2026, the company said. • Related: Do residential cruises present an opportunity for travel advisors? "I look forward to building on the robust launch and cultivating a community while redefining what it means to live and travel at sea," Brown said.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
ATM outlines why luxury hospitality leaders view personalisation as key to revenue growth
During ATM 2025, senior executives from Minor Hotels, Fairmont and Marriott highlighted the rise of 'hyper-personalisation' in the luxury hospitality industry The ATM Travel Trends report states that 85% of hoteliers view personalisation as a crucial driver of commercial value Next-Gen travellers are driving demand for luxury experiences that focus on meaning over opulence Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Personalisation is emerging as a growing trend in travel and tourism, particularly within the luxury segment, as travellers increasingly seek experiences tailored to their individual preferences and lifestyles. At Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, senior executives from leading hotel groups, including Minor Hotels, Fairmont and Marriott, examined the rising influence of 'hyper-personalisation', which moves away from one-size-fits-all services to offering bespoke guest experiences. Leveraging tools such as AI-driven customisation and chatbots, as well as personalised welcome amenities and bespoke dining options, these brands are redefining the customer journey in the luxury travel segment, which is witnessing a continued surge worldwide. According to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, developed by ATM in partnership with Tourism Economics, 85% of hoteliers now consider personalisation as a key driver of commercial value, with tailored experiences shown to generate additional revenue of up to 5%. Furthermore, insights by market intelligence firm Future Market Insight Inc, has revealed the global customisation and personalisation in travel market is expected to reach US$620.71 million by 2032. Speaking during the panel, experts defined hyper-personalisation as providing individualised experiences that anticipate both expressed and unspoken guest needs. While technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are instrumental in delivering customised offerings at scale, the panellists agreed that human connection remains essential for a truly personalised hospitality experience. Nicolas Hauvespre, VP of luxury brands at MEA Marriott, said: 'When it comes to hyper-personalisation, for many brands, this goes far beyond traditional service. It's about creating something highly tailored and curated through leveraging technology and building on your culture, so you can develop that anticipatory service and meet both the explicit and unspoken needs of your guests.' The panel, which also included Loay Nour, Vice President Fairmont Brand and Marketing Communications, and Amir Golbarg, Senior Vice President Minor Hotels, also discussed the importance of establishing an emotional connection, anticipating guest needs, and building this over time. 'Luxury is not one size fits all, it's no longer about recognising someone by the name or knowing their preferences in their profile, because you need to understand that those consumers are not only hotel consumers, they are exposed into the ultra level of personalisation from other brands and other industries that they work with, so they have a certain minimum of expectations,' said Nour. In the Middle East and Africa, Marriott is embracing this shift while maintaining brand distinctiveness, expanding its luxury footprint with projects such as the Ritz-Carlton Reserve at Nujuma in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea, which is rooted in immersive, cultural experiences. Upcoming openings elsewhere in the region include a portfolio of curated Ritz-Carlton safari lodges in eastern Africa, which will pioneer new destinations and provide guests with highly authentic experiences. Meanwhile, owner-led hospitality companies, such as Minor Hotels, are using their lean structures to pilot new concepts in-house before rolling them out globally. This operational flexibility has enabled the company to invest in curated, experience-driven offerings that prioritise quality over quantity. A recent success story includes the 22-room Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi in Ghantoot, which has outperformed expectations by focusing on hyper-personalised offerings in a unique setting. Commenting on these insights, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'As luxury travel evolves, so too does the definition of what it means to deliver highly personalised experiences. Today's travellers are looking for more than exceptional service; they expect tailored journeys that reflect who they are and what they value. At ATM, we are witnessing how hospitality brands are rising to the challenge, providing guests with luxury experiences that are personalised, sustainable and connected to people and place.' Luxury travel will be under the spotlight at Arabian Travel Market 2026, which will be held from 4 to 7 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. In parallel, travel technology will remain a key focus as innovation continues to reshape the future of the industry and transform every stage of the traveller's journey. Now in its 33rd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading global platform driving growth and innovation across every sector of travel and tourism. Held annually in Dubai – the gateway to global travel and tourism with its unmatched connectivity – ATM is where the energy of opportunity comes to life. More than just an event, ATM is a dynamic hub for industry communities, with forums, experiences, and networking that continue well beyond the show floor over the week. Now in a period of rapid expansion, ATM has grown 16% year on year, attracting over 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries. The next edition of ATM will take place in Dubai from 4–7 May 2026. About RX RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. About RELX RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are: WTM London is the world's most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes. Next event: 4 to 6 November 2025 at ExCel London. WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026 – Expo Center Norte, SP, Brazil. WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019. Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town About ATW Connect: Africa Travel Week's digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology. WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Africa's flavours to drive its hospitality boom
Africa's food and beverage sector will play a key role in driving growth in the continents luxury hospitality sector. Valued at US $346.2 billion in 2024, the Africa food and beverage market is projected to reach US $567.3 billion by 2032, according to research from Verified Market Research. Across Africa, luxury hotel groups, such as One&Only Resorts, Azalai Hotels Group, and Marriott Luxury Collection and Autograph Hotels, are positioning food as a defining part of the guest experience through partnerships with celebrated chefs and the use of indigenous ingredients. 'In markets like South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, the Seychelles, and West Africa, African-centric fine dining is on the rise, shaped by the unique culture of the continent, sustainability, and seasonality. These are not passing trends; they are part of a deeper movement redefining African cuisine as a global force,' says Conrad Gallagher, CEO of Food Concepts 360, one of the world's leading boutique restaurant design consultancies. Africa's culinary sector has enjoyed increased popularity, culminating in Cape Town being voted the best food city in the world in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards. And international hotel groups have started taking notice. The Radisson Hotel Group recently committed to expanding its portfolio from 13 to 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current footprint. And Marriott International's acquisition of Protea Hotels, which includes over 100 properties across seven African countries, reflects a long-term commitment to regional dominance. Says Gallagher: 'What these two groups illustrate is that combining global expertise with African hospitality could be the key to unlocking the full potential of food and beverage as a competitive differentiator.' However, with opportunities come challenges. While Marriott and Protea's expansion signals continued investment confidence, it may be even more important that local partnerships deliver local impact. Food Concepts 360 is actively engaging with stakeholders at both local and international hotel groups to ensure that there is no potential disconnect which could weaken cultural relevance and limit the ability to respond to local market dynamics. 'We're bringing world-class skillsets home to start work on flagship developments in key markets like Nigeria, Angola, Mozambique, and Egypt – countries where we see a convergence of economic potential, urbanisation, and culinary curiosity.' The chef-led, experience-driven business is focused on building ecosystems, not just individual projects and has a long-term approach that prioritises public-private partnerships, the nurturing of African talent, and the development of the next generation of hospitality leaders. Sustainability, African design thinking, and measurable local impact are embedded into all their projects. 'The world is looking to Africa for inspiration,' Gallagher says. 'Now is the time for South African hospitality professionals to lead with confidence, creativity, and cultural pride. As African talent returns home and investment momentum builds, the continent stands ready and primed for growth.' Conrad Gallagher is the CEO of Food Concepts 360, one of the world's leading boutique restaurant design consultancies. Since 2016, Food Concepts 360 has worked on high-profile hospitality projects across Africa, the Middle East and Europe. His team has helped conceptualise and deliver more than 60 restaurants internationally, including flagship destinations on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. This experience has equipped his South Africa-based team with deep operational insights and a global perspective on how to deliver world-class results for Africa's fast-growing hospitality market. Their work helps partners to unlock the full potential of food and beverage as a competitive differentiator.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Hilton Doha The Pearl appoints Kimberley Roberts as Director of Marketing & Communications
Doha, Qatar: Hilton Doha The Pearl has announced the appointment of Kimberley Roberts as its new Director of Marketing & Communications, bringing two decades of global experience in luxury hospitality, lifestyle, F&B, to the property. Kimberley's appointment marks a return to the Hilton family, where her hospitality career first began in 2006. Her international journey has since taken her across major markets including the GCC, Europe, United Kingdom, United States, Asia Pacific, and Australia. She has held senior marketing and leadership roles with some of the world's most prestigious hotel group, including Hilton and Marriott International. Early in her career, Kimberley led global marketing initiatives for Hilton's luxury resorts in the Maldives, managing regional strategy across several markets including the Middle East. At Marriott International, she was instrumental in launching new luxury resort brands in the Maldives and leading post-COVID brand repositioning across a diverse portfolio of properties. In 2023, Kimberley expanded her influence into agency life, where she headed an integrated marketing communications team and consulted across a broad range of industries including tourism, aviation, FMCG, finance, and non-profit. Most recently, she played a key role in launching the Mondrian lifestyle brand on Australia's Gold Coast, overseeing pre-opening campaigns and experiential brand activation. Known for her creativity, commercial insight, and award-winning campaigns, Kimberley has a proven track record in enhancing brand visibility and delivering innovative guest engagement strategies on a global scale. 'I am incredibly proud to return to Hilton, an organization that shaped the foundation of my hospitality career. Hilton Doha The Pearl is a stunning property with enormous potential, and I am excited to lead its next chapter of brand evolution, and create experiences that truly resonate with our guests,' said Kimberley Roberts. With this strategic appointment, Hilton Doha The Pearl reinforces its commitment to world-class marketing leadership as it continues to position itself as one of Qatar's premier city resort destination. About Hilton Hotels & Resorts For over a century, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the world, providing new product innovations and services to meet guests' evolving needs. With more than 600 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties are located in the world's most sought-after destinations for guests who know that where they stay matters. Experience a positive stay at Hilton Hotels & Resorts by booking at or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits.
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Fairmont grows in India with Udaipur Palace opening
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of Accor, has announced the opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace, a palace located on the ancient Aravali Hills in Udaipur. The 18-acre estate is designed for modern royalty, offering 327 rooms and suites, seven distinct event venues, eight dining concepts, a transformative wellness sanctuary, and layered experiences built on Rajasthan's poetic legacy of timeless art, craft, and hospitality. Rooted in Mewar's great fortresses, Fairmont Udaipur Palace rises above rock and marble, chattris and courtyards, stepwells, and terraces to celebrate design, culture, and the natural flora and fauna of the destination. Guests enter through the grand Raj Dwar, a dramatic fortress gateway flanked by cannons. The palace unfurls like a story etched in time, with intricately layered pavilions, gardens, colonnades, and terraces that reflect the property's design ethos that blends the region's traditional craftmanship with contemporary style. It honors the primal forces through its three interconnected wings: Surya Mahal, the Sun Palace, Chandra Mahal, the Moon Palace, and Agni Mahal, the Fire Palace. Every space is steeped in comfort, beauty, and contemplative charm, a living tribute to nature, memory, and timeless design. At the heart of Fairmont Udaipur Palace is the majestic leopard, symbolising resilience, grace, and quiet ambition. The vibrant world of Rajasthani arts and crafts comes alive through the skilled hands of local artisans from villages supported by Fairmont Udaipur Palace. Guests can choose from Fairmont Rooms, Signature Rooms with plunge pools, Luxury Rooms with garden or courtyard views, and an array of suites including the Fairmont Suite, Maharani Suite, and Maharana Suite. The palace also features a collection of specialty suites, including the Rajputana Suite, the Regal Mewar Suite, and the Jewel of Udaipur Suite with pool and terrace. The Fairmont Udaipur Palace offers a range of culinary destinations, each designed to complement its architectural and cultural soul. Bahaar, an all-day dining venue, serves globally focused, locally sourced soul food, while Dahaad, an opulent palace bar, echoes Rajasthan's wild symphony with a thikri sculpture of a leopard. Dastaan, a lounge celebrating storytelling, offers thoughtful conversations surrounded by curated coffee table books, artful sculptures, and candles. Sitara, a sunset-facing space above the palace gardens, offers cosmic cocktails and skygazing rituals. Zaika pays homage to bold Indian culinary traditions through a deeply layered menu of comfort classics and regional specialties. The property's signature restaurants, Celeste, an avant-garde Asian bistro, and The Alchemist, will open in the coming months, adding new dimensions to the palace's evolving culinary journey. With over 1,40,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor celebration spaces, the palace is built for occasions that are worthy of being etched in the memory. The Imperial Ballroom, Mehfil, Ivory Pool and Garden, Jashn Bagh and Noor Bagh, Chand Baori, Dialogue Rooms, and Terraces offer elevated, panoramic settings ideal for private dinners, cocktail hours, and quiet reflection. The Fairmont Spa & Salon and Fairmont Fit Gym provide wellness treatments that enliven the skin, restore tired muscles, and soothe the spirit. Signature massage rituals, rooted in energy meridians, aromatherapy, and natural movement, are designed not only for recovery but also revelation, integrating the use of bespoke oils under the brand. For recreation beyond the palace, guests can explore Rendezvous, a vibrant activity zone featuring mini golf, pickleball, paddle ball, ziplining, and a dedicated kids' play area. The palace also offers a private helipad for seamless access and a spectacular arrival that sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. 'The opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace marks a defining moment in Fairmont's journey in India—a tribute to the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Udaipur, one of India's most iconic and romantic destinations. Known as the City of Lakes, this destination has long captured the imagination of travelers with its regal heritage, architectural splendor and serene landscape. This new palace reflects Fairmont's commitment to honoring the spirit of each location we enter, blending global luxury with deep local resonance. We are proud to bring the Fairmont experience to Udaipur and to be part of the city's enduring legacy as a jewel in India's cultural crown.'—Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Raffles & Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 'Our endeavour was never just to build a hotel—it was to craft a world. Udaipur has always been a jewel of India, and with Fairmont Udaipur Palace, we wanted to create a destination within a destination—where every guest feels like a modern Maharaja or Maharani. This palace isn't just built in stone and marble, but in stories, craftsmanship, and soul. From the hand-carved jharokhas to the grandeur of our architecture, every detail is a tribute to India's royal heritage and Rajasthan's timeless artistry. But beyond aesthetics, this project holds deeper meaning. Tourism has always been close to my heart, and Fairmont Udaipur Palace is my way of giving back—to the city, to the state, and to the spirit of Indian hospitality. We wanted to give Udaipur that global edge—a world-class hotel where people from around the world come not just to stay, but to celebrate, to unwind, and to feel the true soul of Rajasthan. It's our homage to heritage, our tribute to tradition, and our promise to India's future in luxury tourism.' — Somesh Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of ROCKWOOD Hotels & Keystone 'At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, our vision was to create more than a hotel — a living palace that stirs emotion, celebrates culture and offers experiences that linger in memory. Every element has been crafted with intention and care. As we open our doors, our focus is on shaping a destination where luxury is not just seen or felt, but deeply remembered.'— Vishrut Gupta, General Manager, Fairmont Udaipur Palace. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
