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Experience Extraordinary Destinations this Season by Booking with Millennium Hotels and Resorts

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Millennium Hotels and Resorts, a global hotel group boasting over 135 hotels across some 80 locations worldwide, kicks off the holiday season with thoughtfully-curated offers, unique attractions and an exclusive winter promotion that will entice guests to travel during the most wonderful time of the year.  Known for its exceptionally designed hotels in iconic locations, such as Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and New York, Millennium Hotels and Resorts is featuring an array of festive experiences to make the holiday season truly memorable.  Guests are invited to experience these destinations with extraordinary stays using the “Love the Escape – Love My Millennium” offer.

“Millennium Hotels and Resorts is thrilled to elevate guests’ holiday experience with festive offerings and incentives,” said Alex de Carvalho, Vice President of Sales | North America.  “We look forward to creating everlasting memories for our guests with tree lighting ceremonies, celebratory New Year’s Eve parties, delightful afternoon teas, and other holiday-inspired culinary initiatives.”

Love the Escape – Love My Millennium

For a limited time, discerning travelers can plan the perfect winter escape at any Millennium hotel or resort destination with the “Love the Escape – Love My Millennium” offer.  All travelers can book starting December 18, 2019 through January 16, 2020, receive 20 percent off and My Millennium members can receive an additional 10 percent off.  Stay dates are from December 18, 2019 through April 30, 2020.  Additionally, Millennium Hotels and Resorts launched an exclusive Black Friday campaign, “Love Friday. Love My Millennium.”  Love Friday offers all guests 25% off, as well as an additional 10% off for My Millennium members for hotels in North America, along with double point rewards for two-night stays and triple point rewards for three plus night stays through the Love My Millennium Program.  The window to book is November 29, 2019 through December 2, 2019 and the window to stay is November 29, 2019 through March 31, 2020.

Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ festive winter offerings include: 

Millennium Biltmore Los Angeles

Millennium Biltmore will host its annual Festive Tree Lighting celebration taking place on December 4.  Guests can take a break from holiday shopping to enjoy the hotel’s holiday afternoon tea offered every Saturday and Sunday in November and December from 2-5 p.m.  Lastly, a delectable holiday brunch at the Biltmore will take place on December 25 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at $78 per person, which includes free flowing champagne hosted in the crystal ballroom.  For more information, please visit: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/los-angeles/millennium-biltmore-hotel-los-angeles/

The Bostonian Boston

Visitors can enjoy all the culinary delights The Bostonian has to offer during this holiday season with three special menu packages.  The special menu packages include the build your own holiday creation, the home for the holidays buffet and the merry and bright buffet.  Each offering features a carving station, decadent desserts and appetizers or hors d’oeuvres.  Tis the season for celebrating, so guests can forget about driving home and stay at the hotel to receive a complimentary cocktail.  For more information, please visit: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/boston/the-bostonian-boston/

Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago

Celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago with family and friends at Millennium Knickerbocker with a traditional family-style dinner.  Guests can savor classic dishes such as green beans, sweet potatoes, roast turkey, pumpkin pie and more.  The historic hotel will host a seating every hour starting at noon on Thursday, November 28, with adult tickets that cost $80 for adults and children under 12 for $40.  For reservations, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/79986564969

In December, Millennium Knickerbocker will be offering afternoon tea with Santa.  Served daily in the Library Tea Room from 1-4:30 p.m., families can choose between traditional or Asian afternoon tea with the special holiday guest.  For reservations, please visit: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/chicago/millennium-knickerbocker-hotel-chicago/

Millennium Times Square New York

At Millennium Times Square, guests will be welcomed with festive décor in the lobby, as well as thrilling New Year’s Eve celebrations. Guests are invited to ring in the new decade in one of the best cities in the U.S., New York City. Millennium Times Square is the perfect place to watch the ball drop from the 52nd floor.  Millennium Times Square’s New Year’s Eve party is a black tie-optional party featuring a live DJ, dancing, canapes, a seafood bar, other snacks, and dessert.  Various tiers of tickets are available to purchase, one of which even offers a private room with a direct view of the ball drop.  For more information, please visit https://www.balldrop.com/millennium-broadway-ny-times-square

ABOUT MILLENNIUM & COPTHORNE HOTELS

Millennium & Copthorne Hotels (M&C) is a London-based global hotel company, which owns, manages and operates over 135 hotels across some 80 locations worldwide. Its properties are in key gateway cities such as London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Dubai, Doha, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Singapore and Hong Kong. M&C is the hotel arm of Singapore-listed global real estate company City Developments Limited (CDL). M&C’s global brand – Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) has four distinct hotel collections — Leng’s Collection, M Collection, Millennium Collection and Copthorne Collection — throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East, New Zealand and United States. Occupying the best locations around the world, MHR has the perfect address for business and leisure travellers. Listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1996, M&C was delisted on 11 October 2019 following a successful privatisation exercise launched by CDL. Visit www.millenniumhotels.com for more information.

Media Contact:

Glodow Nead Communications

millenniumhotelspr@glodownead.com

415-394-6500

Centara strengthens management team with key Commercial and Development appointments

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hospitality company, has further strengthened its executive management team with the recent appointments of two highly experienced hotel industry professionals.

Tabatha Ramsay, an Australian national with more than 30 years of experience in sales and marketing, has joined the company as Vice President Commercial, overseeing sales, revenue and distribution, while Raymond K. Tong, a native of Hong Kong with more than 25 years’ experience in hotel development and operations, has been appointed Chief Development Representative China and North Asia. Ms. Ramsay will report to Centara Deputy CEO Markland Blaiklock, while Mr. Tong will report to Centara Senior Vice President Business Development Andrew Langston.

“We’re delighted to welcome two executives with the breadth of experience Tabatha and Raymond bring to their respective new roles,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.  “Tabatha is well-equipped to help lead Centara to the next level of commercial success, while Raymond’s appointment bolsters the company’s ambitious development plans for Greater China and North Asia.”

Prior to joining Centara, Ms. Ramsay held a number of management positions with leading hotel groups, including: Area Director, Sales & Marketing at Intercontinental Hotels Group; VP Sales at Minor Group’s Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas; VP Sales, Marketing & Revenue at Oakwood Worldwide; and, more recently, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer at Vinpearl Hospitality Ltd.

Before becoming CEO of Ambassy Hotel Advisors, Mr. Tong held a number of senior-level roles during a 20-year career with AccorHotels, during which he helped develop more than 180 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments throughout China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan as well as other Asia markets.

Centara is in the middle of an exciting phase of development and growth which is guided by the company’s vision to be the leading global hospitality group of Thai origin. The plan includes doubling company revenues through substantially increasing its portfolio of properties and global presence, and by leveraging technology and people to optimise profitability. These two executive appointments are a key part of that journey and help to ensure that Centara is well positioned to meet its ambitious objectives.

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 76 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Centara is strategically expanding its portfolio with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com  

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Download all Centara official images and logos at Image Bank

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For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – International media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:pornchanokth@chr.co.th              Tel. +66 (0) 2769 1234 Ext. 6733


Puntira Cherdboonmuang (Gam)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – Thai media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:puntirach@chr.co.th                 Tel. +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6922

North America and Caribbean exhibitors bring their best to WTM London

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From Canada to Tobago, and New York to California, exhibitors at WTM London – the global event where ideas arrive – will be highlighting new hotels, fresh campaigns and state-of-the-art tourism developments across North America, Mexico and the Caribbean. As well as established destinations and global brands, delegates at the event in ExCeL will be able to meet representatives of innovative attractions, boutique properties and exciting eco-tourism initiatives.

Executives from Destination Canada (NA400) will talk about the tourism agency’s uplifting new tagline, For Glowing Hearts, inspired by the words of the national anthem and imagery of the Canadian flag.

Ben Cowan-Dewar, chairperson of Destination Canada’s board, said: “The brand evolution is driven by the belief that travel should change you and Canada will leave a lasting mark on your heart.”

Also on NA400, the Canadian province of Ontario will be promoting its wealth of new upmarket hotels – such as Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay – and new air services, such as WestJet’s daily Dreamliner service from London Gatwick-Toronto, and Norwegian Air’s daily link between Hamilton and Dublin.

Just south of the border between Canada and the US lies New England, which will be in the international spotlight during 2020, as it marks the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower.

The Plymouth 400 Anniversary will highlight cultural contributions and traditions that began with the interaction of the Wampanoag people and English settlers in 1620.

Next year also marks the bicentennial of the state of Maine, which will see celebrations and commemorations. The regional tourism authority, Discover New England (NA165), represents five states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.

South of New England is the Big Apple and this year WTM London welcomes four new exhibitors from New York, sharing the NYC & Company stand (NA300) along with more than 30 other attractions.

Other exciting exhibitors on stand, will be: New York Cruise Lines, which operates the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises; New York Philharmonic; Seaport District NYC, a shopping, dining and events neighbourhood; and Running Subway, which is creating a new attraction due to open in Times Square next spring, described as “part museum and part ride” and includes a flight simulation ride over the city’s landmarks.

Travelling further south brings visitors to historic Philadelphia, in the state of Pennsylvania.

The Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (NA340) will highlight a host of new hotels – including the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, which occupies the top 12 floors of the 60-storey Comcast Innovation and Technology Center building – and the revamped Philadelphia Museum of Art, which will re-open in autumn 2020 following a $196 million transformation.

Even further south is the ‘sunshine state’ of Florida, where tourism is the mainstay of the economy, especially in the home of world-class theme parks, Orlando.

Planes, trains and self-driving buses are on the agenda for Visit Orlando (NA250), as it promotes quicker and easier ways for tourists to get around. A new terminal will open at Orlando International Airport in 2021; Virgin Trains will begin a service connecting Miami and Orlando from 2022; and driverless shuttle buses started running in some neighbourhoods, with plans to expand.

These developments, along with news focus on sustainability initiatives, will be discussed at WTM London by Visit Orlando’s Chief Executive George Aguel and the new mayor of Orlando & Orange County, Jerry Demings.

Meanwhile, Experience Kissimmee (NA330) in Florida will be showing delegates why the destination is known as the Vacation Home Capital of the World. It will also promote its ecotourism attractions such as wildlife reserves and birdwatching trails, plus activity centres for fishing, ziplining, hot air ballooning, horse riding, kayaking and airboat rides.

Visit Tampa Bay (NA240) will unveil its new cocktail book, Tampa with a Twist, at WTM London, showcasing cocktails created by local mixologists. Known for its hip hospitality, the Florida destination features a host of cocktail bars as well as craft breweries. The tourist board will also highlight new theme park rides such as Iron Gwazi – the fastest and steepest hybrid roller coaster in the world – which opens in spring 2020 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Overall, there are four new exhibitors from Florida, which include Isla Bella Beach Resort (NA200) set along the coastline of the Florida Keys; Orlando International Airport (NA250); Florida’s Northeast Coast (NA240), which represents five tourist boards along the Atlantic coastline; and CHM-Florida Resorts (NA240), which runs Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and the World Equestrian Center Hotel & Spa.

Nearby, is the island destination of Puerto Rico, which is on Stand NA100, part of the Brand USA Pavilion. It will be displaying a recent video collaboration with Lin-Manuel Miranda, the famous playwright and Hamilton composer, entitled ‘Discover Puerto Rico with Lin-Manuel’. The video series follows the Puerto Rican actor around his favourite locations to encourage visitors to discover the wonders of the destination.

Heading out west brings tourists to the Texan cities of Dallas and Fort Worth. Their tourist boards will be on stand NA350 to celebrate the forthcoming opening of several hotels – such as Virgin Hotels Dallas and Hotel Drover at Fort Worth’s Stockyards – as well as cultural developments, including major exhibitions at the African American Museum, and the recent opening of the Holocaust and Human Rights Museum.

Joining these exciting exhibitors at the Brand USA Pavilion are the attractions and entertainment specialist Legends Attractions (NA285); Noble House Hotels & Resorts, which features boutique properties in destinations across North America (NA200); Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino with three distinctive towers (NA150).

Brand USA will also be using WTM London 2019 as an opportunity to promote their third big screen release – Into America’s Wild, scheduled to premiere in February. It will feature American trailblazers such as John Herrington, the first Native American Astronaut, and the Alaskan Pilot Ariel Tweto, who will take part in a cross-country journey of the United States and its iconic landscapes.

South of the US, there is a host of tourist attractions and hotels in Mexico and the Caribbean, which are sending delegations to WTM London.

The Mexican destination of Los Cabos will see its first ever, direct service from Europe launch on November 7, 2019. Holiday giant TUI will start the flights from London Gatwick airport, at the beginning of the winter season. Ten travel and tourism operators from Los Cabos (LA130) will share a stand at WTM London to highlight the region’s increased connectivity from the UK and Europe, as well as its upmarket attractions along Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Elsewhere, visitors to the Hard Rock Hotels stand (TA170) can enter a prize draw at WTM London to win a three-night stay in the new Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos. The all-inclusive resort will also be the place to see the debut of a new show, Bazzar, by Cirque de Soleil in January 2020.

Nobu Hotels (NA330) will be showcasing Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, which opened in April 2019, and Nobu Hotel Chicago which opens in early 2020. Meanwhile, on Mexico’s Riviera Maya is adult-only hotel UNICO 20˚87˚ (CA300). It has a new bar, Gin Time, and is launching more food and drink experiences, as well as wellness options and romance packages for 2020.

Heading eastwards from Mexico brings tourists to the Caribbean destination of the Dominican Republic. Bosses from the tourism ministry will be on stand CA300 to update delegates on the progress of the island’s first theme park, due to open in late 2020. Called Katmandu, Punta Cana, it will also include a 36-hole golf course.

Further east, where the Caribbean and Atlantic meet, is Antigua and Barbuda. Executives from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (CA245) will be promoting the islands’ sailing, water-sports, romance and wellness themes. Highlights include the region’s biggest regatta, Antigua Sailing Week (April 25-May 1, 2020) and increased Virgin Atlantic services from London Gatwick to Antigua from 8 June, 2020.

To the south is the ‘Nature Island’ of Dominica. The Discover Dominica Authority (CA260) will be at WTM London to highlight its remarkable renaissance as the island continues its recovery from Hurricane Maria in 2017. Overall visitor arrivals for the first half of 2019 are up by 321% year-on-year, and overnight stays reached 43,774 – a 67% increase year-on-year. New luxury hotels include Jungle Bay Resort and Spa, Kempinski Cabrits Resort and Spa and Anichi Resort and Spa.

Meanwhile, in the southern Caribbean is Tobago, from where the Tobago Tourism Agency (CA250) will be bringing an eco-friendly message to WTM London. It will be promoting the island’s green initiatives and tagline: ‘Tobago Beyond: unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered’.

Next year will see sustainability projects come together under the Greening Initiative, as the destination works towards internationally recognised environmental standards. Furthermore, Styrofoam cups will be phased out and a new award will be given to the most environmentally sustainable resorts.

WTM London Senior Exhibition Director Simon Press said: “From the dramatic landscapes and buzzing cities of Canada and the US to the vibrant and varied destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, we have an unrivalled selection of exhibitors with fresh tourism ideas and innovative concepts to share with our visitors.”

For more news about WTM London, please click here.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Julia Newbound – WTM Portfolio Press & PR Lead

E: julia.newbound@reedexpo.co.uk

T: +44 (0)20 8910 7056 / M: +44 (0)7775 036 858

Nicole Smart – WTM Portfolio PR & Events Consultant

E: nicole.smart@reedexpo.co.uk

T: +44 (0)20 8910 7032/ M: +44 (0)79 1955 5510

Centara Hotels & Resorts enters 2020 on a high with impressive expansion plans, new openings and brand updates

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has provided the travel industry with an update on its expansion and development plans ahead of this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London.

The last 12 months have been an exciting period for Centara, which is currently midway through a strategic five-year development plan that will see its global portfolio grow to over 130 hotels in more than 15 countries by the end of 2022.

The company is also implementing several important projects to improve all areas of its business, from technological upgrades to new brands.

EXTENDING A LEADING POSITION IN THAILAND

Centara is currently undertaking a significant expansion of its domestic portfolio. The group recently celebrated the opening of the 145-key Centara Sonrisa Residences & Suites Sriracha, on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. It has also added three hotels in the attractive Mai Khao Beach area of Phuket; the 22-pool villa Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa has joined the Centara Boutique Collection, the 142-key Maikhao Hotel is now managed by Centara, and the brand new, 280-key Centra by Centara Maikhao Resort Phuket is scheduled to open in 2024. Most recently, Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi, which is the only branded resort on Ao Nang Beach, opened its doors in October. Following this, COSI Pattaya Naklua Beach will start welcoming guests this November. These new agreements extend the group’s Thai portfolio to 38 hotels and resorts in operation, with many more under development.

EXPANDING IN NEW GLOBAL MARKETS

Centara continues to grow its footprint in many of the world’s most attractive destinations. The group recently signed a joint venture agreement for its inaugural property in Japan: the 515-key Centara Grand Hotel Osaka, which is scheduled to open in mid-2023. At the start of the year, Centara made its debut in Qatar with the launch of the 292-key Centara West Bay Residences & Suites Doha. Following an agreement with the same owner, Centara will add two more properties in Doha: The B Premiere Hotel, an 85-room property under the Centara Boutique Collection which will open early next year, and the 167-key Centara Al Bustan Hotel Doha, which is under construction and due to open in 2021.

Southeast Asia is also a key area of expansion. Centara recently signed an MoU to manage six properties in Myanmar, including the 95-key Centara KMA Resort Inle Lake, which was the first to be signed and will start welcoming guests in early 2020. In Laos, the company has sealed management agreements for three new properties with a combined total of 216 keys, including Centara Grand and Centra by Centara hotels in Luang Prabang and COSI Vientiane Nam Phu. These are in addition to Centara Plumeria Resort Pakse, which is scheduled to open in 2020. Finally, Centara has revealed plans for a significant expansion of its portfolio in Vietnam, with the goal of opening at least 20 new hotels nationwide in the next five years.

Centara’s international portfolio and pipeline now extends to 13 countries: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, the Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Japan, Turkey, the UAE and Vietnam.

REFRESHING AN ICON AND REVEALING NEW BRANDS

Centara is also focused on revitalising its brands and properties to create the finest experiences for all guests. Fresh brand identities have been revealed for the group’s upscale Centara and upper upscale Centara Grand brands. This serves to breathe new life and energy into their visual appeal and better distinguish the brand experiences, whilst ensuring a sense of warmth and progressive Thainess, which are the omnipresent hallmarks of the company. This will be complemented by a new luxury brand which will be officially launched following the complete upgrade and repositioning of the popular Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui, which closed temporarily earlier this year. Its reopening in late 2020 will coincide with the unveiling of the brand, whose name, together with exciting details of its inaugural hotel will be announced in January 2020. Centara has also signed an MOU with a leading medical company to create a new medical wellness brand.

In October, Centara began the rollout of its new global advertising campaign, titled “The Place to Be”, which is derived from the company’s unique and inimitable brand DNA of Thai Family Values and the associated values of Caring, Sharing and Belonging.

DELIVERING CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

Centara is fully committed to delivering the latest technology across all areas of its business. Guests will be able to benefit from a new best-in-class website, which will offer a more intuitive, user-friendly booking flow across all devices, including advanced mobile compatibility; and dynamic personalized content. The new digital experience will launch in April 2020  Enhanced and integrated Property Management Systems (PMS), Central Reservations Systems (CRS) and Revenue Management Systems (RMS) will enable hotels to perform to the best of their ability, driving maximum returns back to their owners and the company is midway through the rollout of this new technology architecture which comprises a combination of the optimal solutions  for Centara’s business model, including Opera, IDeaS and Vertical Booking by harnessing big data, Centara will also be able to personalise every stay.

REIMAGINING THE MICE SECTOR

At the start of 2019, Centara officially launched Meetings Redesigned, an innovative new MICE concept designed to provide a one-stop service for corporate events. This new programme is built around three main elements: a Meeting Guru will offer a single point of contact for end-to-end event management; a partnership with Asia Ability will help promote new team-building techniques, and creative catering will deliver memorable group dining occasions.

Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld continues to raise standards in in the MICE sector, after it was named “Best Meetings and Conventions Hotel in Asia” for the fifth consecutive year at the 2019 TTG Travel Awards. Centara now operates three world-class convention hotels in Bangkok, and the company is aiming to host at least 100,000 MICE delegates in the city this year, helping to position the Thai capital as a key gateway for international events. Centara is also investing THB 650 million in a full refurbishment programme of all 505 rooms at the flagship, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld which will further consolidate its status among Bangkok’s leading business and leisure destinations.

REFRESHING GUEST EXPERIENCES

Finally, Centara has crafted its new Staying Well concept, which promotes a healthier way to travel. This programme has also been built around three core pillars, Live Well, Eat Well and Sleep Well, and comprises the provision of in-room fitness accessories, exercise routines and free group classes, healthy restaurant menus, pillow menus, soothing music, wellness kits and more.

For more news about Centara, please click here.

Centara Hotels & Resorts enters 2020 on a high with impressive expansion plans, new openings and brand updates
Cosi Pattaya
Centara Hotels & Resorts enters 2020 on a high with impressive expansion plans, new openings and brand updates

MEDIA CONTACT: Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao), Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Tel. +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733, Email: pr.centara@chr.co.th

Bartlett congratulates S Hotel and Kanopi House on new Condé Nast Traveler best hotels rankings

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Luxury and lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler, has ranked S Hotel in Montego Bay and the Kanopi House in Portland as #1 and #6 best hotels in the Caribbean and Central America, respectively, in its 32nd annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey.

The 120-room S Hotel, owned and operated by the Crissa Group, was also ranked the 36th Best Hotel in the World.

Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett extended congratulations to the hoteliers, whose accolades will further promote Jamaica as the destination of choice for the region.

“I wholeheartedly congratulate the management and staff of the S Hotel and the Kanopi House for being listed in the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards list.  These accolades will go a far way in helping us to promote brand Jamaica to new audiences,” said the Minister.

He further noted that, “I am particularly proud of the S Hotel which has ranked #1, after being operational for less than a year. The S Hotel is Jamaican owned and Jamaican managed and we are exceptionally proud of Christopher Issa’s undivided commitment and dedication to the tourism sector and to his country. We look forward to hearing more about the many other accolades to come.”

The Best Hotels in the World list ranked the 50 best hotels in the world according to 600,000 registered voters from the Condé Nast Traveler’s site.

The magazine described the S Hotel property as having “a bit of South Beach glitz” with ocean view rooms that “are big enough to pass for apartments in some big cities.” It also lauded the property for “artfully combining discreet urban sophistication and a laidback resort lifestyle offering guests an authentic Jamaican cultural experience.”

The Kanopi House is a collection of eco-chic treehouses nestled high amongst 100-foot Banyans and rooted deep in Jamaican culture.  The treehouses were designed and built by owners Brian and Jennifer Hew on six-acres in Portland, Jamaica.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

Hilton Hotels in Africa: The big five commitments

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Since Hilton announced its Big Five commitments to drive sustainable travel and tourism in Africa less than a year ago, the company has allocated $626,000 towards community partnerships and projects.  These drive impact and deepen positive social and environmental change in five key areas – Youth Opportunity, Water Stewardship, Anti-Human Trafficking, Local Sourcing, and Wildlife Protection.

Investments include hotel-level project funding as well as contributions through the newly founded Hilton Effect Foundation and Hilton’s global partnerships with the World Wildlife Fund, International Youth Foundation, and Vital Voices.

Rudi Jagersbacher, President, MEA&T, Hilton said: “Hilton is fully committed to Africa and the sustainable development of its travel and tourism sector. Our teams across the continent are empowered to invest in and scale up initiatives that build skills among young people, mitigate risks in human trafficking, engage local entrepreneurs across our supply chain, improve water efficiencies and promote responsible wildlife-based tourism.”

Examples of Hilton’s collaboration with local organizations in support of its Big Five commitment include:

Youth Opportunity – Hilton Transcorp Abuja, Nigeria partners with ACE Charity on its Business Empowerment Program for Women (BEPW) to provide skills and training opportunities for young women. Their latest project will see the BEPW participants trained in repurposing linen to create hotel uniforms and guest amenity bags saving around 50% on sourcing costs.

Water Stewardship – Hilton Garden Inn Lusaka, Zambia is tackling water access needs in the community by building a water pipe and pump with Village Water Zambia. This will specifically support local school children who are the most at risk from water-related illnesses.

Anti-Human Trafficking – Hilton Yaounde, Cameroon extends its partnership with the Women’s Guild for Empowerment and Development to create integration programs and work experiences for women who have been victims of human trafficking.

Local Sourcing – Hilton Northolme, Seychelles will invest in a local hydroponic farm and its sustainable farming practices, in order to promote farm-to-table experiences for guests, and reduce the hotel’s reliance on imported vegetables and herbs by 40% and 100%.

Wildlife Protection – Hilton Nairobi, Kenya continues to sponsor six elephants in a local elephant sanctuary which cares for orphaned elephants and supports their reintegration into the wild. This commitment has been sustained now for more than five years.

Hilton has been operating continuously in Africa since 1959 and is committed to long-term sustainable growth across the continent.  It currently operates a total of 47 hotels in Africa and has an active pipeline with a further 52 properties under development.

More information on African Tourism Board: www.africantoursmboard.com

MEDIA CONTACT: TravelMarketingNetwork, 954 Lexington Ave. #1037, New York, NY 10021 USA, PH: (+1) 718-374-6816, marketing@travelmarketingnetwork.com

Centara and KMA Group Sign HMA for a New Myanmar Resort

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, and KMA Group, a subsidiary of Kaung Myanmar Aung (KMA) Group of Companies, signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) in Bangkok for the management of a new hotel in Myanmar owned by KMA. The property, located at one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, will be rebranded and managed under the Centara brand beginning this year.

The 95-key Centara KMA Resort Inle Lake, located on the shores of Inle Lake in central Myanmar, is scheduled to open during the fourth quarter of 2019.

We are very excited to move forward in partnership with KMA Hotels, one of the leading hospitality companies in Myanmar,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts. “This agreement enables Centara to establish a significant foothold in a country with tremendous growth potential for tourism, and work with the highly experienced management team at KMA.”

KMA Group of Companies is a privately held company founded and led by Chairman                      U Khin Maung Aye, Chairman of CB Bank. The Group comprises 15 corporate entities operating across a diverse range of industries.

“We are delighted to have Centara’s strong brand and international management expertise coming on board at the new resort property,” said Khin Maung Aye, Chairman of KMA Group. “I am confident that Centara’s presence in Myanmar will contribute toward realising the country’s full potential for tourism growth while ensuring continued success for KMA’s hotel and tourism businesses.”

Centara signed a MOU with KMA earlier this year for the management of six hotels and resorts in Myanmar. This new management agreement represents the completion of the deal for the first of these properties with the others set to follow imminently.

Myanmar is Southeast Asia’s second-largest country and boasts one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. Myanmar’s projected tourism growth rate of 8.5% annually through 2025 puts the country at the top of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets.

The addition of a new Myanmar property is further evidence of Centara’s continued expansion strategy, and the combination of Centara’s expertise and KMA Group’s mastery of development are sure to elevate Myanmar’s hospitality sector.

Centara and KMA Group Sign HMA for a New Myanmar Resort
Centara and KMA Group Sign HMA for a New Myanmar Resort

About KMA Hotels GROUP

KMA Hotels was formed in October of 2007 as a division of the KMA Group of Companies, with the aim of being a Myanmar national owned hotel chain providing international standard services and facilities. The Royal Kaytumadi Hotel, the first five-star hotel from KMA Hotels Management opened on 9th April, 2008 in Taungoo. KMA Hotels currently operates eight resorts, hotels and inns in Myanmar.

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 75 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Centara is strategically expanding its portfolio with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com  

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For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – International media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:pornchanokth@chr.co.th  Tel. +66 (0) 2769 1234 Ext. 6733

Puntira Cherdboonmuang (Gam)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – Thai media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:puntirach@chr.co.th Tel. +66 (0) 2769 1234 Ext. 6922        

Centara Adds Three New Hotels to Phuket Portfolio

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Three West Coast properties boost Centara’s Phuket presence to nine hotels and resorts

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hospitality group, has signed hotel management agreements for three new hotels in Phuket’s Mai Khao Beach area owned by Maikhao Dream Company Limited. Two properties are already in operation and fall under Centara management from 11th September, while the third property is in development. The new agreements expand Centara’s presence across the island to a total of nine hotels and resorts, with eight in operation.

“We are very happy to be adding these three resorts to our growing portfolio. They offer a diverse range of accommodation along one of Phuket’s finest beaches, giving guests travelling to Phuket an even greater variety of Centara resorts to suit their needs and preferences,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Mikhail Tyurin, Managing Director of Maikhao Dream Company Limited, added: “This is a significant milestone for our company, and we are very excited to be working with Centara. Their management team has vast experience in the Phuket market, and the Centara brand gives our properties a significant boost in visibility with our target customers.”

The hotel management agreements encompass the following properties:

  • The 22-key Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa, which will join the Centara Boutique Collection on 11th September 2019, is the only beachfront villas resort on the shores of Mai Khao Beach. The resort offers luxurious accommodation in spacious private villas. Two-bedroom villas accommodate up to four adults and two children with 460 sqm of space, and three-bedroom villas measuring 650 sqm accommodate up to six adults and two children in spacious comfort.

Each of the 22 villas has its own private pool and whirlpool, outdoor pavilion and well-equipped kitchen. Resort facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, kids’ club, retail shop, library and business lounge, as well as an international all-day dining restaurant and wine cellar. Phuket International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the resort.

Centara Boutique Collection is a carefully curated brand portfolio reserved for upper upscale properties in unique locations that are individual, design-centric and provide a distinct experience. All the properties in the collection are intimately sized and found in destinations that attract experiential travellers who prefer small, stylish hotels. This hotel is the perfect addition to the collection. It is a truly unique resort and its modern Thai design focus is both authentic to its environment and the perfect representation of the progressive Thai heritage of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

  • The 142-key Maikhao Hotel, which opened in early 2019 and will also be managed by Centara from 11th September, is a midscale hotel offering contemporary design and comfortable accommodation as well as excellent facilities. It offers standard and superior twin rooms, studios, and one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. Facilities include a main swimming pool with separate kids’ pool, fitness centre, meeting rooms, beer garden, karaoke room and an all-day dining restaurant.
  • The 280-key Centra by Centara Maikhao Resort Phuket is a greenfield development currently under construction. When completed, the resort will feature facilities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, meeting venues, a kids’ club, and an all-day dining venue. The resort is expected to open in 2024.

For further information, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Centara Adds Three New Hotels to Phuket Portfolio
Maikhao Dream Villa Resort and Spa two bedroom beachfront pool villa
Centara Adds Three New Hotels to Phuket Portfolio
Maikhao Dream Villa Resort and Spa three bedroom beachfront pool villa

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 74 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at CentaraHotelsResorts.com.  

Facebook                    LinkedIn                      Instagram                    Twitter 

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – International media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:pornchanokth@chr.co.th  Tel. +66 (0) 2769 1234 Ext. 6733


Puntira Cherdboonmuang (Gam) Corporate Public Relations Manager – Thai media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
Email:puntirach@chr.co.th Tel. +66 (0) 2769 1234 Ext. 6922

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels Set to Host Over 100,000 Delegates by Year End

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is raising the bar for corporate meetings and events in Bangkok, with the aim of hosting 100,000 MICE delegates at three world-class convention hotels in Bangkok this year, positioning the Thai capital as a key gateway city for the international MICE sector.

Centara provides guests with a range of exceptional accommodation and large-scale meeting venues in Bangkok. Whether companies are planning a large-scale conference, a customer thank you party, an award ceremony, a product launch, a media briefing or an executive strategy session, this professional group has the perfect proposal.

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels
Bangkok Convention Centre at Centara Grand at CentralWorld

With an unsurpassed location in the heart of the city, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld is one of Thailand’s top MICE venues. Event organisers have multiple options to choose from, including the World Ballroom, which can seat up to 1,000 guests, and 17 Lotus Suites for between 10 and 400 people.

For the biggest international mega-events, the pillar-free Convention Hall can accommodate a staggering 7,000 delegates, while the 23rd floor corporate retreat, M23, features four naturally-lit meeting room, a kitchen, reception area and even a private putting green! With 505 rooms and suites, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld also has the capacity to house many of its delegates under one roof. The hotel’s array of acclaimed drinking and dining venues, including CRU Champagne Bar – one of the world’s highest champagne destinations –  provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day’s conference or for toasting the latest big deal.

Alternatively, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok offers a fantastic collection of function spaces and facilities. The vast BCC Hall can accommodate up to 3,800 guests for a cocktail reception, while the Vibhavadee Ballroom can host 2,000 guests for a reception, or be split into three smaller pillarless venues for medium-sized gatherings. Finally, 17 elegant suites are ideal for training sessions, board meetings, workshops and more.

Following the extension of Bangkok’s BTS network, guests can now travel to and from this 565-room hotel by skytrain, using the recently extended Green Line. The new Ha Yaek Lat Phrao BTS station, which opened in August 2019, offers direct connections from downtown Bangkok and is just six stops from the Airport Rail Link making this hotel the most perfectly accessible location for both the airport transfers and the bright city lights.

Centara Means Business in Bangkok with Three World-Class Convention Hotels
Vayupak Grand Ballroom at Centra by Centara Government Complex

Just a short distance away, the recently refurbished 212-room Centra by Centara Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre is nestled in the heart of the Thai government complex at Chaeng Watthana, not far from IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Thailand’s largest conference and exhibition venue. With a 3,000-guest Convention Centre and 26 function spaces in two dedicated buildings, this modern hotel is able to host multiple events simultaneously. And with an amazing auditorium perched atop its very own water garden, and a glass walled reception area with panoramic views, this will create spectacular occasions that live long in the memory!

With almost 1,300 rooms and suites across its three convention hotels in Bangkok, Centara can house every business traveller and conference delegate in style and comfort. Whichever hotel companies choose, they will be fully supported by a Centara’s Meetings Redesigned concept, which uses creativity and innovation to bring every gathering to life.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts and to start planning your next corporate event, please visit centarahotelsresorts.com.

ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 74 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, China, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands -Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, Centara Residences & Suites and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to double its size with additional properties in Thailand and new international markets, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at CentaraHotelsResorts.com.

Facebook                    LinkedIn                      Instagram                    Twitter

Media Contact:

Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)

Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts

Email: pornchanokth@chr.co.th

Tel.: +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733

Centara Begins THB 650 Million Room Upgrade at Flagship Bangkok Hotel

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is launching a much-anticipated renovation programme at its five-star flagship, Centara Grand at CentralWorld Bangkok, beginning this month. The company is investing THB 650 million in the room improvement project, which will see a complete floor-to-ceiling renovation of all 505 guestrooms and suites, an undertaking that will happen two floors at a time to avoid disruption to the guest experience.

“This is an exciting project and a significant investment in Centara’s flagship hotel. The renovation programme will enhance the guest experience with fully updated and refreshed guestroom interiors, amenities and advanced technologies, ensuring we will continue to deliver the kind of contemporary luxury experience that customers have come to expect from one of the market’s leading five-star properties said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Centara’s Chief Executive Officer.

Centara is working with leading design firm P49 on the project, who are known for their high quality design solutions for luxury hospitality, residential and retail clients across the globe. The designs for the new room interiors draw inspiration from Thai artisans, textures and patterns and will create a modern and contemporary aesthetic that is in keeping with both the vibrant and international location of the hotel, as well as the brand’s inimitable Thai roots. Guestrooms, including bathrooms and furniture, will be totally redesigned and upgraded and technology and connectivity will be installed at a standard reflecting the demands of today’s sophisticated travellers.

Centara Grand at CentralWorld Bangkok marked its 10-year anniversary earlier this year. Throughout its 10-year history, the 57-storey hotel has been a destination-of-choice among international tourists, business travellers and visitors attending events at the adjoining Bangkok Convention Centre. Along with spectacular views of the city from its guestrooms, restaurants and rooftop bars, and a direct connection to the adjacent CentralWorld mall, the hotel sits in the very heart of Bangkok’s shopping and business district.

Centara Begins THB 650 Million Room Upgrade at Flagship Bangkok Hotel
room upgrade at centara grand at centralworld

The room improvement project is expected to complete in April 2021, and the hotel will be fully operational and carrying out business as usual throughout the project duration. This exciting upgrade will further reaffirm Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld’s position among the pre-eminent leisure and business hotels in Asia.

MEDIA CONTACT: Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao), Corporate Public Relations Manager – International, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Tel. +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733, Email: pr.centara@chr.co.th