Latest news with #ForbesTravelGuide
Hospitality Net
13 hours ago
- Hospitality Net
Forbes Four-Star Mokara Hotel & Spa Announces a New Chapter in Timeless Tranquility on the San Antonio River Walk
This August, the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Mokara Hotel & Spa will begin a three-month comprehensive reimagination of the award-winning River Walk retreat's guest rooms & suites. Ushering in a new chapter in timeless tranquility, guests are invited to indulge in "what's next" - only at the new Mokara Hotel & Spa. Renovations are slated for completion in October 2025. More than just a place to stay, the new Mokara will be a serene sanctuary for the modern-day traveler. Offering luxurious repose along the iconic River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa has long been celebrated for its rejuvenating spa, exceptional service, and signature Texas hospitality. A favorite amongst discerning travelers seeking a wellness-forward escape in the heart of San Antonio's cultural vibrancy, the comprehensive room renovation will blend modern sophistication with wellness-focused additions. Inspired by the building's rich heritage as a saddle factory at the turn of the 20th Century, each guest room and suite at Mokara Hotel & Spa will feature hand-stitched leather decor and furniture, horsehair-like patterned wallpaper flowing through the hallways into serene guest spaces, handcrafted woods, and a neutral color palette complemented by alabaster and herringbone. The guest rooms will showcase featured works by Dallas-based artist Lindsey Myers, who specializes in abstract and impressionistic fine art, utilizing colors and painting in gouache, oil, acrylic, and more to bring her pieces to life. Each room will also include new free-standing bathtubs that allow for immersive rejuvenation, including a signature Bathtub Butler program where guests can have a personal butler draw their bath or provide additional desired bath items like therapeutic bath crystals between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., and new faucets and vanities that invite guests to wash away the day and indulge in unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Mokara Hotel & Spa's prime location along the River Walk provides guests easy access to San Antonio's cultural scene and historic landmarks. Boasting world-class accommodations, critically acclaimed fine dining, an award-winning spa, and coveted amenities, paired with Mokara's attention to detail and personalized service, Mokara Hotel & Spa is the premier destination for a luxurious stay in every way. Mokara Hotel & Spa is located at 212 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205. To experience the evolution at Mokara Hotel & Spa, visit Hotel website
Business Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
SG60: Building on a legacy of luxury
WHEN Marina Bay Sands (MBS) first opened its doors in 2010, it redefined what an integrated resort (IR) could be, not just for Singapore but globally. With its striking design, three-tower silhouette and iconic SkyPark, it quickly became a symbol of Singapore's aspirations as a global city. Fifteen years on, MBS is far from resting on its laurels. With a cumulative investment commitment of US$15 billion, including reinvestments into the existing property and the upcoming new development, it is doubling down on its commitment in Singapore for the long term. 'We are fortunate to be in a unique location where we have an exceptionally supportive government, which gives us the confidence to continue investing for the future,' says Paul Town, chief operating officer of MBS. The past year marked a major inflection point for the resort. Despite renovation works reducing room capacity, MBS posted record financial performance, exceeding US$2 billion in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation for the first time. This was powered by the completion of key projects under its US$1.75 billion reinvestment programme. These included the debut of the Forbes Travel Guide five-star rated Paiza Collection, a new suite of ultra-luxurious rooms and experiences, the relaunch of its brand under the Above Beyond identity, and upgrades across its food and beverage, gaming and retail offerings. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up The reinvestment strategy was not merely a commercial decision. It was a signal of intent to remain competitive in a fast-changing hospitality landscape and to continue setting new benchmarks for excellence. Through design innovation, digital upgrades and tailored experiences, MBS has evolved to meet the demands of a new generation of luxury travellers. 'The reinvestment goes beyond the physical transformation of spaces. It is about enhancing the entire customer journey, creating not just a luxurious stay but an experience that goes above and beyond, in every way,' says Town. Beyond the building Behind the architecture and investments is a human story. The success of MBS has been driven by its people: a 12,000-strong workforce fuelling its 24/7 operations. The IR has invested heavily in workforce development, including the launch of one of the world's largest butler service teams and a robust scholarship programme to nurture future hospitality leaders in Singapore. A focus on inclusive hiring and upskilling has enabled MBS to build a diverse and resilient workforce capable of adapting to change. Its people-first approach, coupled with global exposure and high service standards, has helped raise the bar for Singapore's broader hospitality industry. 'The journey of transformation that we are on would not be possible without the incredible dedication of our team,' says Town. 'Their passion, professionalism and innovative spirit are what make Marina Bay Sands a place where guests from around the world come to live their best lives.' Proudly part of Singapore's growth MBS has long positioned itself as a partner in Singapore's development. It has one of the largest private sector workforces in the country, and in 2024 alone, recorded a total of S$2.19 billion in annual business spend, with nearly 92 per cent of procurement expenditure going to local businesses. Since opening, over 500 million visitors have walked through its doors. In 2024, the IR also hosted more than 1.2 million meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) delegates, reinforcing Singapore's standing as a hub for tourism, meetings and world-class entertainment. Beyond the numbers, MBS has helped elevate Singapore's global profile as a lifestyle capital. From hosting international art exhibitions and red carpet events to introducing high-end retail concepts and culinary brands, the IR has played an important role in shaping Singapore's cultural and commercial identity. It has also created valuable opportunities for local businesses, artisans and emerging talents to access a global stage. 'Singapore's unique position as a global tourism and business hub has allowed us to thrive, while our ability to evolve and align with the city's aspirations ensures we remain relevant in an era of rising demand for ultra-high-end luxury experiences,' says Town. Through philanthropy, education, sustainability and cultural programming, the company has also integrated itself as part of Singaporean society. Whether it is the Sands for Singapore Charity Festival, partnerships with local small and medium-sized enterprises, and artists, or pioneering sustainability efforts, the IR has sought to contribute meaningfully beyond its core business. MBS has also become a case study in how businesses can align growth with purpose. From reducing its environmental footprint to championing accessibility and cultural inclusivity, it continues to evolve as a forward-thinking institution that reflects the values of the community it serves. Shaping the future of luxury Looking ahead, the next chapter for MBS begins with its standalone ultra-luxury resort adjacent to the current site. With 570 all-suite rooms, a 15,000-seat entertainment arena, 200,000 square feet of premium MICE facilities, rooftop infinity pools, a luxury spa and Skyloop attraction, the new destination is designed to set a new global benchmark in hospitality and entertainment. Far from replicating the success of the original MBS, the new development will offer a distinct experience aimed squarely at elite travellers and international tastemakers. The project also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with biophilic design, energy-efficient technologies and responsible sourcing built into its blueprint. As part of its planning, it also draws from the learnings of the past decade, including the shifting expectations of travellers post-pandemic, the integration of wellness into luxury, and the growing demand for immersive, story-led environments. These insights are shaping a property that is both forward-looking and deeply attuned to guest preferences. 'Our new ultra-luxury development reflects our confidence in Singapore as a premier destination for luxury and leisure. It is not just an extension of Marina Bay Sands. It will be a standalone destination that elevates the entire integrated resort experience,' says Town. Fifteen years in, MBS has grown beyond a newcomer setting records. It has become an institution that continues to evolve with and contribute to Singapore's story. With its new building on the horizon and a sharpened vision of what modern luxury means, the IR will continue to set the pace for what comes next. This article is contributed by Marina Bay Sands
Rakyat Post
28-07-2025
- Rakyat Post
The Forbes Five-Star Secret That's Closer Than You Think
Subscribe to our FREE In the rarified world of luxury hospitality, where Forbes Travel Guide's five-star rating remains as elusive as it is coveted, consistency is perhaps the ultimate luxury. This year marks the ninth consecutive time that Solaire Resort Entertainment City has earned this distinction—a feat that places the Manila property in select company among the world's truly exceptional destinations. The numbers tell only part of the story. Sprawling across 8.3 hectares mere kilometres from Manila's storied districts, Solaire occupies that sweet spot of accessibility without compromise—close enough to the city's pulse, yet removed enough to offer genuine escape. For the discerning traveller, particularly those from neighbouring Malaysia, it represents something increasingly rare: world-class luxury without the ordeal of transcontinental flight schedules. The Sky Tower's rooms and suites range from 65 to 395 square meters—dimensions that speak to a different philosophy of hospitality, one where space itself becomes a luxury amenity. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Manila Bay's legendary sunsets, while the 72-meter outdoor pool stretches like a liquid horizon beneath the tropical sky. 'We are grateful for the opportunity to receive this The Sky Tower lobby at Solaire Resort features a luxurious and modern design, providing a welcoming atmosphere for guests. (Pix: Solaire) The Choreography of Choice Nineteen restaurants and bars might seem excessive until one considers the choreography required to maintain genuine variety without sacrificing quality. The triumvirate of signature establishments—Finestra Italian Steakhouse, Yakumi, and Red Lantern—anchors a culinary program that manages to feel both comprehensive and curated. Red Lantern at Solaire Resort offers a delightful array of traditional Chinese dishes that captivate with their rich flavours and textures. (Pix: Solaire) Its wine program, featuring 685 labels, alone suggests the kind of depth that separates serious hospitality from mere accommodation. The Theatre at Solaire, with its 1,740 seats and Broadway-calibre productions, represents something more ambitious than hotel entertainment—it's cultural infrastructure that has attracted Tony Award and Grammy Award-winning performances. For Malaysian visitors accustomed to Kuala Lumpur's vibrant arts scene, this represents the kind of authentic cultural programming that elevates a resort beyond mere luxury accommodation into genuine destination status. The Theatre at Solaire offers a contemporary setting for theatrical performances, making it a notable destination for entertainment in Manila. (Pix: Solaire) Luxury Retail and Recreation Behind the marble and mahogany lies a USD 1.2 billion investment—RM5.065 billion in Malaysian terms—that manifests in details both grand and granular. The pillar-less grand ballroom, Metro Manila's largest at 1,000 seats, speaks to the engineering ambition required for true luxury. The Shoppes at Solaire, with its roster of Rolex, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Polo Ralph Lauren, acknowledges that luxury travellers expect luxury retail. Even a shooting range finds its place in this carefully orchestrated ecosystem of indulgence. The Sky Range Shooting Club offers Malaysian visitors a unique recreational experience rarely found in regional luxury resorts—and for many, their first opportunity to handle real firearms in a controlled, professional environment. The club features a comprehensive selection, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns, with expert instruction available for those discovering this sport for the first time The Shoppes at Solaire Resort offers a luxurious shopping experience featuring prestigious international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior. (Pix: Solaire) The Persistence of Standards 'We celebrate this recognition together with our 12th anniversary. We remain committed to setting new standards in luxury hospitality,' says David Batchelor, Senior Vice President for Resort Operations. It's the kind of statement that could easily ring hollow, were it not backed by nearly a decade of consistent recognition from Forbes. As the flagship property of publicly-listed Bloomberry Resorts Corporation and the inaugural resort in the government-sponsored Entertainment City development, Solaire carries the weight of expectation that comes with being first. Nine years later, it continues to justify that early confidence—a reminder that for Malaysian travellers seeking Forbes-calibre luxury without the traditional barriers of distance, cost, or complexity, sometimes the best-kept secrets hide in plain sight, just three hours flight away. South Korean singer PSY has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Solaire Resort. (Video: Solaire) Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Forbes
25-07-2025
- Forbes
Inside Jamaica's Billionaire Playground, The World's Best Bars And More Travel News
. Once a 19th century sugar plantation, the Tryall Club in Montego Bay, Jamaica has been a favorite hideaway of billionaires and celebrities for years. The estate, which is close to the airport, adds to the sense of privacy and luxury. Owners rent their villas on a weekly blocks, with rates ranging from around $400 per night to $8,000 per night for more spacious villas. In addition to having a beach club, spa and restaurant, the Tryall Club also offers golf and tennis. . If it seems like everyone is carrying a designer beach bag, eating on designer plates and sitting under a designer umbrella at your resort this summer, you're not imagining it. Luxury fashion houses are now going beyond small co-branded capsule collections to fully curating the European beach resort experience. Here's where you'll find Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and other famed fashion houses at the beach this summer. . Why rent a car on your next vacation when you can just stay at a property that offers the use of a luxury vehicle—and sometimes provides a personal driver? The editors of Forbes Travel Guide have put together of list of 27 hotels with luxury car collaborations—from Land Rovers at the Surf Club in Montauk to a fleet of Mercedes at Auberge du Soleil in Napa. 'Everything in life is somewhere else, and you get there in a car.' This is the published version of Forbes' Passport newsletter, which offers a first-class guide to luxury travel. Click here to get it delivered to your inbox every Friday. . Following the Transportation Security Administration's recent move to end passengers' removal of shoes from the security checkpoint process, TSA hinted this week that a change to another longstanding rule may soon be coming—easing the ban on liquids greater than 3.4 ounces. While no decision has been made yet—Homeland Security is reportedly reviewing the measure—here's what it would mean for airline passengers. And other rule changes may also follow, including one involving personal electronic devices. . Kumiko, the innovative dining bar serving up a taste of Japan in Chicago's West Loop, was named World's Best Bar last night at the 19th annual Spirited Awards in New Orleans. Cofounded in 2018 by acclaimed bartender Julia Momosé and local restaurateurs Cara and Noah Sandoval, Kumiko has been garnering accolades for its minimalist food and drinks from the start, including a 2019 Michelin star for its original chef, Mariya Russell (the first Black woman to be awarded a Michelin star) and the Exceptional Cocktails Award from Michelin in 2022. Amont the other big winners were New York's Sip & Guzzle, which was named Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar, San Francisco's Trick Dog, which was honored as the Best U.S. Cocktail Bar and Bar Leone in Hong Kong, which was named Best International Cocktail Bar. See the complete list of winners from the 2025 Spirited Awards.
Forbes
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Discover The Hidden Gems Of Nairobi's Exclusive Giraffe Manor
We're wild about Giraffe Manor for a number or reasons. Giraffe Manor The thing about social media is that you don't really know what to believe. With apps and filters and AI software, you can make anything into a perfect post nowadays. Maybe that's what you've been thinking about the Safari Collection's Giraffe Manor, a beloved animal sanctuary and nearly-impossible-to-reserve resort in Nairobi, Kenya. Every Instagram post you've ever seen of the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star getaway looks like a page from a Rudyard Kipling novel that's come to life. Giraffes duck into windows at the precise moment a camera shutter goes off. Animals strut by the second a swimmer lifts her head out the infinity pool. Nothing about this seems real. The stretched-neck stars of the show. DeMarco Williams The instant you step onto the 12-acre property you realize that the hotel wasn't embellishing on its Instagram feed. The place is pure magic. Between the lush greenery streaming along the walls or the hand-carved furnishings filling the rooms, the resort has an authentic aura. And after just a few minutes walking around, you also will discover that there's so much more than giraffe feedings and effortless IG posts. In fact, here are three aspects of Giraffe Manor that will most pleasantly surprise you during your visit. Relax and unwind in one of the Retreat's day rooms. DeMarco Williams It's well-documented how challenging it is to get an overnight stay at the boutique hotel. With only 12 rooms spread across two buildings, the Historic Manor and the recently refreshed Garden Manor, it makes sense that the property's waiting list would be longer than a giraffe's neck. But those who are lucky enough to score a reservation (or find themselves with a Nairobi layover while visiting other Safari Collection outposts) receive access to The Retreat at Giraffe Manor. Just a stroll from the manors, the Retreat is like a day club with a full-service spa, gym and a restaurant (more delicious details on it in a bit) open to guests with a day pass. The tranquil space is great for catching glimpses of the tall, hoofed residents or simply unwinding. The Retreat's snazziest amenities are the day rooms, which are essentially lavish suites (a living area, full bath, plenty of fresh juices and water) meant for visitors exploring at least one other Safari Collection property to rent for a few hours of relaxing, napping and snacking. While you can't stay overnight in these rooms — the giraffes don't come this far for their window feedings, either — the plush beds are brilliant detours on a busy travel day. Daisy's Café is a delicious highlight of the visit. DeMarco Williams The Food In just about every social post you've seen of Giraffe Manor, the photo subject has been at a table, feeding pellets to a giraffe. But have you ever paid attention to the human food on the plate? No. And that's a shame, too, because the cuisine here is wildly delicious. All-day restaurant Daisy's Café mixes global flavors with Kenyan flair, and the results are tremendous. From breakfast to burgers to tapas bowls, every dish comes out beautifully plated — not that you'd expect anything less from one of the most photogenic properties in the world — and wonderfully seasoned. The pappardelle chicken piccata is one of the kitchen's standout items. This symphony of lemon, capers, tomatoes and juicy chicken harmonizes with the smooth Pumba's Pombe (bourbon, maple syrup, soda water and orange zest) from the bar — oh yes, Giraffe Manor has a full bar, too. Warthogs wonder about the property like their taller roommates. DeMarco Williams The Other Animals A herd of Nubian and Rothschild giraffes visits the grounds, mostly for its famous feedings early in the morning. If you miss these 6:30 a.m. calls, make the short walk next door to the neighboring Giraffe Centre, where you can feed the outstretched mammals some pellets from your hand while also learning about conservation efforts to protect them. Back at Giraffe Manor, you'll notice that the most prevalent animal isn't spotty and 16 feet tall but rather has tusks and stands just 30 inches off the ground. Playful warthogs freely roam the property, photobombing and generally keeping up mischief wherever they can find it. When you're having lunch on the Daisy's Café patio, there's a great chance that a few of the wild pigs will harmlessly graze around a landing beneath your table. The resulting photo won't be an image you're used to seeing at Giraffe Manor, but it'll still be an impressive nature shot that'll wow your Instagram followers. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes 27 Hotels With Luxury Car Collaborations By Melinda Sheckells Forbes Forbes Travel Guide's Best Hotel Bars For 2025 By Jennifer Kester Forbes 18 Undiscovered Beach Getaways By Forbes Travel Guide Forbes From Anguilla To Australia, Forbes Travel Guide's 2025 Star Award Winners By Jennifer Kester
