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  Antoinette Van den Berg, VP Sales & Distribution, Operations at Marriott International, provided insights into the hotel giant's expansive portfolio, spanning City hotels, Resorts, and recently acquired City Express properties. Emphasizing local engagement, Van den Berg discussed the company's commitment to integrating community experiences and flavors into their offerings. Despite challenges in certain destinations, 2023 has proven a phenomenal year, especially for the Resorts portfolio, with double-digit growth in the all-inclusive segment. Anticipating a promising 2024, the interview reflects Marriott's dedication to tailored guest experiences and continued success in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.  

  JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of more than 30 brands, today launched the "Stay in the Moment" Asia-Pacific campaign, featuring a K-drama inspired campaign video starring South Korean actor, Lee Minho. "Stay in the Moment" captures the essence of JW Marriott, which invites and empowers guests to embrace fleeting yet profoundly meaningful moments in life with inspiring surroundings, mindful experiences, culinary artistry and inspired service.     The campaign video features characters that are framed by the luxury and timeless beauty of the surroundings, which symbolize contemplation and introspection as the story unfolds. The scenes underscore the beauty of human connections, and emphasize themes of self-discovery and strong familial bonds that are forged in unforgettable moments. The visuals reflect the breath-taking natural landscapes and enriching experiences that are found in every JW Marriott hotel, which serve to replenish the mind, body and soul.   "The "Stay in the Moment" campaign focuses on the discerning luxury traveler who seeks well-being, mindfulness and profound connections－all the elements that speak to the spirit of the JW Marriott brand," said John Toomey, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer Asia Pacific (Excluding China), Marriott International. "Lee Minho's starring performance in the campaign video beautifully captures the JW Marriott experience, embodying the holistic and inspirational moments that shape our journeys and enrich our lives."   "I personally appreciate and align with the JW Marriott brand's seamless attention to people, nature and culture," said Lee Minho, South Korean actor. "The 'Stay in the Moment' philosophy by JW Marriott inspires me as an actor as well. Embracing the present moment and cherishing special memories not only provides a comforting rest but also acts as a catalyst for personal growth. Additionally, it sparks my imagination and allows me to breathe life into the characters I resonate, infusing them with more vibrancy than the script merely outlined."   JW Marriott hotels invite guests to be inspired by the principles of mindfulness, and to pause and appreciate each moment. Through many holistic experiences that originate from a heritage of soul-nourishing wellness offerings, "Stay in the Moment" packages offer guests the opportunities to wonder, to relax, to create and to connect with those who give our lives true meaning. Brand programs such as JW Garden, where lush greenery and idyllic nooks create a serene and timeless escape for guests to enjoy the multi-sensory pleasures of harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables, along with fun educational experiences for families. Family by JW also offers experiences that appeal to every generation, enabling the whole family to come together in meaningful moments. Spa by JW is a tranquil sanctuary of indulgence designed to promote complete relaxation with luxury spa treatments. Guests can also enjoy elevated in-room dining with Savor by JW, which focuses on delicious, nourishing cuisine and the pleasures of healthy eating.   Personalized experiences capture the spirit of "Stay in the Moment"   "Stay in the Moment" packages are now available at JW Marriott hotels across Asia Pacific, inviting guests to discover and explore newly-opened JW Marriott properties such as JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Goa, JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an and JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an Southwest. Other popular JW Marriott destinations with "Stay in the Moment" experiences include Mussoorie, Bangkok, Singapore, Maldives and Gold Coast. The packages include the JW Garden to Table experience at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, where guests can join the hotel's chef and herb gardeners to hand-pick fresh seasonal ingredients. In Thailand, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok joins hands with PASAYA, a distinguished Thai brand of sustainable home textiles and lifestyle products that seamlessly blend lavish living with conscious design in the hotel's nature-inspired themed suites. JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach presents a gin & tonic pairing experience with fresh herbs harvested from the hotel's JW Garden. At JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, guests can nourish their mind, body and soul with calming aromatherapy massage in the serene overwater setting of the resort's newly-opened Spa by JW.   As part of the campaign launch, the "Stay in the Moment" video starring Lee Minho will be rolled out across various media platforms. A link to the video can be found here.

Marriott Bonvoy has formally opened the highly awaited W Sydney overlooking Sydney’s Darling Harbour. The W Sydney hotel features 588 keys, including 162 suites, four new dining and bar venues, the AWAY Spa, FIT Gym and open-air swimming pool. It offers 1,300-square-metres of event space across eight versatile rooms and the Living Room hotel lobby social space concept. “W Sydney marks our W Hotels brand’s triumphant return to Sydney, a long-awaited addition to our Australia hotel portfolio,” said George Fleck, Global Brand Leader of W Hotels. “W Sydney will cultivate a new cultural and social hub in the vibrant Darling Harbour precinct.” The Sydney hotel is located within The Ribbon with interiors designed by London-based Bowler James Brindley. “W Sydney reimagines luxury for a new era, creating a vibrant new scene for Sydneysiders and visitors to the city,” says Craig Seaward, hotel GM. “It’s a complete departure from the city’s traditional hotels.”

Marriott International has marked the milestone of 50 hotels open in Thailand. It comes as the Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection officially welcomed guests. Marriott expects to add a further 10 hotels by the end of 2024. "We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the 50^th hotel opening, marking a major milestone," said Jakob Helgen, Area Vice President. The company entered the Thailand market 27 years ago. It now has Thailand hotels in 15 brands located in more than 10 Thai destinations. "With the support of our associates, we will continue to redefine the hospitality landscape," Helgen added. The Ritz-Carlton brand is set to debut in Bangkok in 2024 in the upcoming One Bangkok mixed-use development. The newest Thailand hotel marks the debut of Autograph Collection Hotels. The Tribute Portfolio brand is also expected to debut in Thailand next year with the opening of Tribute Portfolio Metropole Bangkok. Other expected openings this year include two Marriott Executive Apartments in Sukhumvit 50 and 101, alongside the Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. Additionally, the flagship Marriott Hotels brand is also set to debut in Khao Lak in 2024. Later this year, Moxy Hotels will debut with the opening of Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong while Courtyard by Marriott adds another two new hotels, one near the Suvarnabhumi International Airport and in Phuket.  

 

From seaside getaways in Phuket and the Maldives, city exploration in Tokyo and Melbourne to nature retreats in Ubud and Gifu, Marriott Bonvoy offers an unforgettable summer for holiday seekers

  With the long-awaited arrival of summer holiday, it's the perfect time for travelers to book a fun-filled break. Asia Pacific boasts a full array of bucket list adventures, whether travelers are looking to mingle in the bustling crowd of mega cities or venture to off-the-beaten-track destinations, travelers – no matter solo, group, or families traveling will children – will be able to explore the region in a way that fits their preferences.   Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands boasts hotels with various scenic backdrops, ranging from the turquoise waters of the Maldives to the steep ravines of Ubud and the energetic atmosphere of Bangkok, travelers are welcome to select the perfect summer destination to add to their bucket list in 2023.   SEASIDE RESORTS Nothing says "summer holiday" more than images of sunny afternoons on the shore, salty swims in bright blue waters, and swanky sunset cocktails. Asia Pacific has no shortages of Instagram-worthy beaches, presenting as idyllic corners of the globe for travelers to discover. Here, Marriott Bonvoy details some of the best ways to visit and stay at Asia Pacific's best seaside destinations.   Where to stay?   Maldives: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa   Situated on the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, a 35-minute seaplane journey away from Malé International Airport, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs with vibrant marine life. Curious travelers are invited to unlock the heart of the destination through the resort's Marine Master program, part of Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, where guests can plant their own coral frame with the guidance of the resident marine biologist and learn about the environmental effects of climate change. True to the brand's spirit of savouring the good life, the resort offers "Chase Endless Summer" package for travelers to enjoy complimentary offerings including buffet breakfast and dinner at Turquoise, daily water sports activity, and discounted spa treatments at Explore Spa.   Beihai: Sheraton Beihai Resort   A quaint twist to the usual seaside getaways – recently opened in May this year, Sheraton Beihai Resort is situated in Guantouling National Forest Park at the western end of downtown Beihai with commanding views over both mountain and sea. Once a departure port on the Maritime Silk Road, Beihai's natural seaside setting and unique cultures of the Tanka fishing villages make it an up-and-coming holiday destination. The resort features Sheraton's reimagined design, setting to be a community hub for travelers and local guests alike through brand signatures such as the Community Table, a space where travelers can connect with each other and be energized, and elevated dining outlets such as &More that offers an invigorating coffee program.   CITY EXPLORATION   For travelers looking for a summer vacation outside of the well-traversed seaside getaways, Asia boasts an impressive array of vibrant metropolitan areas with exciting experiences, including traditional summer festivals in Tokyo, rich historical sites in Xi'an, and endless culinary offerings in Bangkok for travelers to indulge to the fullest extent. Here, Marriott Bonvoy presents the best places to stay at when exploring some of the most alluring cities in the region.   Where to Stay?   Bangkok: Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection   Bangkok, a city of gleaming monasteries, soaring skyscrapers and clusters of village-style houses, is the gateway to modern Thailand, as well as one of the most coveted destinations for travelers of all ages to explore. Thong Lor district is one of the city's best spots to experience an eclectic mix of cuisine, culture, and entertainment, and Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, Autograph Collection Hotels' upcoming entry and brand debut in Thailand, is nestled just moments away in a tree-lined avenue. Set to open in early September, through the hotel's exterior as well as 56 guestrooms and suites, guests can experience the rich contrasts of the designs: Elegant, timber-clad exterior juxtaposes with the natural surroundings of this leafy avenue, while the interiors feature designs of classic meets contemporary.   Melbourne: Le Méridien Melbourne   A recent addition to Australia's dynamic metropolis, Le Méridien Melbourne opened its doors in March this year, marking the brand's debut to the region.  Located on a prime location overlooking Parliament House, the hotel invites travelers to savour the moment and connect with Melbourne's famed art, culture, and culinary scene. Travelers will be delighted at the hotel's Art Deco façade with chic mid-century interiors, and marvel at the large-scale sculptural installation in the lobby that is part of Le Méridien's global Unlock Art programme, which includes a self-guided walking tour and complimentary art gallery access. From July onwards, the hotel also celebrates the return of its signature Au Soleil programme with the debut of its Rosé Sorbet, offering travelers the opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the moment with this delectable summer treat.   NATURE RETREATS   For those seeking to trade the glare of the streetlights for the glow of the moon or the chatter of commuters for the sounds of the wild, nature retreats will be ideal in providing refuge and total rejuvenation. Below are some of the best places to experience nature's splendor with Marriott Bonvoy.   Where to Stay?   Bali: The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa   Earning its title as Bali's art and culture center, Ubud is the ultimate place to enjoy rich Balinese culture, local craft scene, and calming lush forests or rice terraces. True to the destination's devotion to wellness and restoration, The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa invites guests and their families to experience a sense of well-being through the resort's signature touchpoints – from the delights of Heavenly Spa, lifestyle programs such as on-site Balinese Praying Ritual and Tri Mandala Meditation at the riverside Wellness Pavilion, and the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio. Local Balinese recipes are also elevated into healthy cuisine to reflect the brand's Eat Well pillar, available in the all-day dining restaurant Tabia and Mediterranean restaurant Tall Trees.   Japan: Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels   As one looks beyond Japan's bustling metropolis of Tokyo and Osaka, they will find sprawling countryside with hidden cultural and historical gems waiting to be discovered. First announced in 2018, Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki aims to connect curious travelers with adventure far beyond the city's bustling rhythms, while still being in accessible reach with proximity to roadside stations nationwide. From the cool summers and brilliant winters of Hokkaido to the traditional mountainous villages of Gifu and the subtropical climate of Kagoshima prefecture, Fairfield by Marriott welcomes travelers in with warm hospitality and all the modern comforts one might need for a good night's sleep, serving as the perfect bases for travelers to explore Japan's breathtaking World Heritage sites and culinary delights.

Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have joined hands in a long-term strategic licensing agreement. It sees the creation of MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, which will launch in October 2023. It covers 17 MGM resorts, representing more than 40,000 rooms in Las Vegas and other US cities. Select MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy resorts will be available for booking via Marriott including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app. All properties are expected to be available to book by the end of the year. These MGM resorts will continue to be available on MGM Resorts’ booking channels. “This historic, long-term agreement brings together two of the most trusted and iconic brands,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President MGM Resorts. “We’ve seen first-hand the strong demand from Marriott International customers through our existing relationship at The Cosmopolitan.” The agreement will also benefit members of both companies’ loyalty programs. Members of MGM Rewards will be eligible to link accounts with Marriott Bonvoy and receive select member benefits. Members of Marriott Bonvoy will be able to earn and redeem points for stays at all MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy properties. Eight MGM resorts in Las Vegas will join the Collection. These are Vdara Hotel & Spa, MGM Grand, NoMad Las Vegas, The Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, Luxor Hotel and Casino, and Excalibur. Five MGM Resorts in other. locations will also join: Borgata Atlantic City, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS, MGM Grand Detroit, MGM National Harbor, MD, and MGM Springfield, MA. Marriott also entered into a loyalty marketing agreement with BetMGM, the online gaming and sports betting joint venture; Marriott Bonvoy becomes BetMGM’s exclusive hospitality loyalty program partner in North America.

Marriott International has notched another key milestone in China. It opened its 500th mainland China hotel – Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Marriott first entered the China market nearly 40 years ago. The company’s growth plans in Greater China continue with 47 new China hotels expected to open in 2023 This adds almost 13,000 guestrooms to the portfolio. Situated in southwest China, Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has 87 private villas within a nature reserve. “Reaching our 500^th Greater China hotel is a momentous accomplishment,” said Yibing Mao, President, Greater China, Marriott. “With close to 190 hotels planned to open in the region in the next three years, we look forward to further growing our footprint.” With rising demand for cultural tourism in historic cities, Marriott expects to add to its presence in China’s leisure destinations with brand debuts in new markets in the next few years. These include Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Four Points by Sheraton, and Fairfield by Marriott. Overall, there are more than 400 hotels in the pipeline across luxury, premium, and select brands.

  From vegan gastronomy in the Heart of Antwerp to hyperlocal dining experiences in the picturesque coasts of Mykonos, restaurants across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio are showing a commitment to indulgent culinary fare that celebrates sustainability.   Supporting Local Farmers | Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort, Crete   Nestled between the fishing village of Plaka and the chic port of Elounda, Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort delights all senses and blends seamlessly into the landscape. With a vision for sustainability, the property encourages the cultivation of sustainable products by working with the Phāea Farmers Programme. This inspiring initiative provides support to regional farmers year-round and engages in collaborations with agronomists to train them in organic farming methods and sustainable land use. At the hotel, locally grown ingredients are seamlessly incorporated into exceptional gastronomic experiences, with 70% of all restaurant produce being sourced from the Phāea Farmers Programme. Guests can also experience a special Phāea Farmers Feast which involves hand-picking ingredients before participating in a creative cooking class under the guidance of the hotel’s executive chef, Giannis Kallivretakis. Images: HERE   Green Michelin-Starred Gastronomy | Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection     Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection is renowned for its award-winning plant-based gastronomic experiences curated by two-Michelin-starred Chef Bart de Pooter. Chef Pooter’s agricultural project “Grond Zoekt Boer" spreads over 12 hectares of land, providing ground for ethical and sustainable farming. The hotel’s fine dining restaurant, WILDn, awarded with a Green Michelin Star in 2023, boasts seasonal menus that bring a unique vegan gastronomic experience presenting the finest produce, fermented vegetables, and homemade flavour enhancers. For a more casual dining experience, guests can visit PLANTn - the hotel’s all-day dining destination ideal for authenticity seekers, and local foodies. This summer, WILDn and PLANTn are launching a pop-up concept on the patio to offer lunch and dinner with a speciality menu featuring white and green asparagus ‘pertuis’ with forest mushroom and roasted young leek, as well as asparagus ‘werchter’ grilled yakiniku with young spinach, wild garlic and black garlic. A vegan hotel, Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection offers guests a unique vegan experience throughout the stay, from breakfast and dinner to room service and complimentary minibars. Images: HERE   The Vertical Farm | The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal      The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has launched its very own Vertical Hydroponic Farm, providing fresh, nutritious produce that is grown on-site and hand-delivered to the hotel's restaurants. Generating 15 kilograms of produce daily within a 41 square metre footprint, 365 days a year, the farm grows the equivalent of one acre of land and generates yields that are 30 times higher than traditional farming methods. Utilising a practice for controlled environment agriculture (CEA), the farm provides ideal growing conditions from lighting, ambient temperatures, and carbon dioxide levels to nutrient conditioning of the water, allowing crops to grow more efficiently, leading to 100% harvests. This initiative demonstrates the hotel’s commitment to helping the planet by reducing the carbon footprint associated with typical logistics involved in farming products. With harvesting being carried out on-site, the elimination of transportation results in zero spoilage and superior outcomes in both flavour and nutrition. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal offers eight distinctive restaurants. Signature dishes made with fresh vertical farm produce include Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes, Burrata and Basil Pesto as well as Sous Vide Black Cod, Miso Sauce, and Crispy Kale. Images: HERE   Slow Food and KM0 Concept | The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama     A holiday haven for families and foodies alike, The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama has taken a plant-based approach for its latest restaurant opening, Verde Mar. Committed to slow food and KM0 philosophy, Verde Mar combines the freshest produce with a relaxed and cosy atmosphere. The restaurant features an outdoor terrace, which is not only a delight for guests but is also where the chef grows fresh herbs including thyme, curry, celery, and lemon verbena. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to include mainly locally sourced ingredients, spotlighting seasonal vegetables harvested on the island. Main dishes include “Bimi” broccoli made with crunchy rye crumbles and roasted cauliflower with black truffle. Non-vegetarian diners can feast on daily catches from the Atlantic Ocean and organic, locally sourced meat dishes. Guests can also enjoy the restaurant's extensive drinks menu, which ranges from classic cocktails and TACOA local artisanal beer to homemade kombuchas and masterfully brewed coffees. Verde Mar is open for dinner from Monday – Tuesday and Friday – Sunday, from 6:30 – 9:00 pm. Images: HERE   Jason Atherton Island Dining | Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos     Mykonos Social by Jason Atherton, at Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, offers elegance and refined cuisine against a backdrop of spectacular sea views. This exquisite restaurant not only captures the essence of Mykonos' beauty but has also become an unmissable dining experience on the island. Led by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, each dish celebrates local ingredients with authentic Mediterranean recipes and traditions used throughout the carefully curated menu. Visitors can indulge in signature creations like the Myconian Monk Fish or the Sporades Spider Crab. Mykonos Social by Jason Atherton is open for dinner service every day from 7:00 pm – 12:00 am. Images: HERE   Farm-to-Table Experiences | The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort      The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort’s newly opened Terra is the herald of Mediterranean flavours with its ethos of ‘farm to table’ cuisine. Designed by the internationally renowned interior architect Lázaro-Rosa Violán, guests will be transported to the typical kitchen of a Majorcan manor house as they step into this beautifully crafted space. Dedicated to the enjoyment of the best seasonal and local products with a special Mallorcan touch, guests can expect traditional tapas at lunchtime and dishes including a carpaccio of smoked octopus and wild asparagus for dinner. The restaurant also serves gourmet breakfasts and features a "Juice Bar", with freshly made juices and smoothies using the finest fruits and vegetables from the Mallorcan orchard. Terra is open for breakfast from 7:00 – 11:00 am, lunch from 12:00 – 4:00 pm and dinner from 6:00 – 10:30 pm every day. Images: HERE   The Hyperlocal Focus | JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa     Blissfully situated on its own private island, JW Marriott Venice Resort and Spa boasts a spectacular lineup of restaurants and bars; from the charming Sagra Rooftop Restaurant to the new Agli Amici Dopolavoro Venezia. Thanks to its strategic positioning between the lagoon and the sea, the resort houses an impressive olive grove, a vegetable garden, and fruit trees, which root the hotel’s culinary offering in local ingredients. Executive Chef Giorgio Schifferegger is always implementing local and organic dining options through partnering with local farmers, growers on Vignole Island and seafood purveyors. At the forefront of the hyperlocal focus, Agli Amici Dopolavoro, helmed by Michelin Starred chef Emanuele Scarello, offers two tasting menus with a strong connection to the Venetian land resulting in dishes that are almost impossible to replicate elsewhere. Signature dishes include Castraura - Ricotta cheese, miso scapece and wild herbs, Sea Herbs - Spaghetti, anchovy butter, egg toffee and shoal herbs, as well as Lagoon - Moeca tortelli, saffron, schie consommé and seaweed. Images: HERE

Marriott International is bringing the Aloft Hotels brand to Singapore. It signed an agreement for the Singapore hotel with Hiap Hoe Limited, as the largest Aloft hotel in the world. Following a conversion, the 785-room Aloft Singapore Novena expects to open in Q3 2023, marking the Aloft brand’s debut in the Lion City. Aloft Singapore Novena will comprise two towers and is strategically located in Zhongshan Park, a mixed-use development. “We are thrilled to announce our third collaboration with Marriott International as we venture and introduce the first Aloft hotel in Singapore,” said Mr. Teo Ho Beng, Chief Executive Officer, Hiap Hoe Limited. Dining options at Aloft Singapore Novena include a modern Chinese and local seafood restaurant, and a Halal-certified buffet restaurant. It will feature an outdoor pool, gym and modern event spaces. It will be Marriott’s 14^th Singapore hotel. “We are delighted to be launching Aloft together with such an experienced partner as Hiap Hoe Limited,” said Gautam Bhandari, Market VP for Singapore and Maldives, Marriott. “The location is strategically placed to enable us to attract both business and leisure guests.”  

Marriott International has completed the hotel acquisition of the City Express brand portfolio from Hoteles City Express. It marks entry into the affordable midscale segment while launching Marriott’s 31^st brand. It will be known as City Express by Marriott. "We are thrilled to expand our portfolio into the affordable midscale segment,” said Leeny Oberg, EVP, Development. “The City Express brand acquisition is an important first step as we enter this attractive segment.” It positions Marriott as the largest Caribbean and Latin America hotel company. The existing City Express hotel portfolio, consists of about 150 properties, which are now part of Marriott’s franchise system. They include urban, suburban, and extended stay properties in Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Chile. The transaction has increased Marriott’s presence in the CALA region by approximately 45% to over 480 properties in 37 countries. The City Express portfolio consists of five sub-brands: City Express, City Express Plus, City Express Suites, City Express Junior, and City Centro. The City Premios loyalty program will be integrated into the Marriott Bonvoy platform.

 

Transformative Experiences and Meaningful Connections Await at JW Marriott’s Haven of Luxury in the Heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya

  JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company’s highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment.   Sitting within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife and wilderness conservation regions, the lodge is a sophisticated and thoughtful sanctuary from which to discover nature and breathtaking vistas in harmony. Exhilarating guided game drives offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is host to the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania.   “Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in. We are excited to welcome travellers to a transformative and wellness-forward stay delivered with JW Marriott’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality.”   Inspired Design    The lodge’s elegant interiors, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, seamlessly blend the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the elements with soft, warm tones, natural materials and textures, and native colours thread through its design. Each of the lodge’s 20 private tents provide a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reset, and feature terraces overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. The tented honeymoon suite offers a private plunge pool, while two interconnecting king and twin suites are ideal for families with children over the age of six (the minimum age of guests at the lodge).   Wellbeing and Mindful Practices    In keeping with JW Marriott’s ethos of mindfulness, the lodge is home to a number of thoughtfully designed spaces from the cosy Adventure Lounge full of books to get lost in and a space for young adults to take time for themselves, to the Cultural Deck where guests can gather around the fire pit to share tales of the day’s exploration.   Capturing the essence of rejuvenation, the Spa by JW emulates the serenity of the reserve and offers tailored experiences and signature treatments which blend locally inspired techniques and therapies. These are complemented by natural and organic products by renowned African skincare brand, Healing Earth, also available as in-room amenities. Guests can enjoy spa treatments from the comfort of their tented suite, accompanied by the sounds of the wilderness. Extending beyond body to mind and spirit with guided yoga, treatments include a ‘Masai Celebration’ incorporating local botanicals and therapies.   Nourishing Culinary Journeys   At the heart of the camp is the JW Garden - an outdoor space for guests to spend time discovering home-grown, organic ingredients, including the lodge’s signature rosemary. The garden’s produce is used by the lodge’s chefs to craft personalised dishes, cocktails, and mocktails. The garden will host daily programming, including live cooking, interactive cocktail mixology, and chef-led talks for a true farm-to-table experience. A relaxing gathering place, Fig Tree Lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains from the indoor and outdoor bar and serves refreshing cocktails and mocktails infused with seasonal ingredients from the lodge’s garden. An indoor and alfresco dining experience at Sarabi Restaurant takes guests on a nourishing epicurean experience guided by JW Garden ingredients and local culinary heritage. Guests can venture out into the reserve with the lodge’s guides to enjoy a freshly prepared ‘Bush Breakfast’ or dinner while sipping sundowners and soaking in the breathtaking savannah vistas.   Connection to the Locale    The lodge’s community programming provides an authentic insight into meaningful local projects, including The Maa Trust, an organisation empowering local people by promoting small business start-ups. The lodge donates a percentage of the nightly rate per person to the organisation and provides a space for craftspeople to retail Maa Beadwork and produce. Guests can visit The Maa Trust to meet with local artisans and forge a deeper connection to the people in the area.   Currently, 60 percent of the lodge’s team are locals, with plans to reach 70 percent, ensuring the hotel’s contribution to the socio-economic development of the region. As an ongoing initiative, JW Marriott Masai Mara’s Apprenticeship Programme invites young women from the community to diversify their skills and broaden their experience to kick-start their careers in the hospitality industry. Partnership with the community began during the early development process of the lodge. Developed on land committed to a tourism project so as not to unduly disturb the surrounding environment, much of the construction was undertaken by local experts overseen by technical specialists, with build materials sourced from sustainable suppliers. The lodge has rehabilitated access roads to the property, installed power to the area, and provided access to clean drinking water for locals through a water treatment plant.   Emphasis on waste reduction and recycling is integral to daily operations. The lodge’s water treatment plant provides recycled and sanitised water; food waste is placed at the lodge’s compost site; and water wells are dotted around the lodge for animals to quench their thirst throughout the day.   By supporting local organisations such as The Mara Elephant Project and The Mara Protector Conservation Programme, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge contributes to protecting animals and their habitat across the greater Mara ecosystem. Bringing a passion for the surrounding wildlife and nature to guests, the lodge’s Head Guide is a lifelong conservationist who holds talks about local culture at the lodge as well as guided walking tours. With an abundance of meaningful moments to experience at the lodge, guests can delve into photography and learn new skills at the lodge’s very own studio.   JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.   Bookings for JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are now open with prices from $1450 per person, per night (all-inclusive board basis). For more information, visit  www.marriott.com. 

Marriott International announced the opening of its latest South Korea hotel in holiday hotspot Jeju. JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa in Seogwipo, Jeju is perched on a cliffside overlooking the volcanic coastlines of the island. The Bill Bensley designed South Korea hotel features 197 guest rooms including 28 suites. It houses five culinary venues, a poolside bar and Spa by JW. Guest amenities include Jeju tea ceremonies, traditional wine tastings, and wine art classes. The resort offers versatile event spaces, such as the Grand Ballroom which accommodates up to 600 guests. "It is setting new benchmarks in modern resort design and service," said GM Douglas Kim “It will showcase the finest of Jeju to visitors.”