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By Nishang Narayan
Published on October 7, 2024
Accor’s Handwritten Collection is set to make its debut in Saudi Arabia with the Handwritten Collection Al Baha, a 148-room boutique hotel opening in 2027. Located on the outskirts of Al Baha City, this property promises to offer unique and personalized stays in a picturesque mountainous setting, overlooking the Red Sea coast.
The project was officially announced at the Future Hospitality Summit in Dubai, marking a collaboration between Accor and Al Hilali Trading and Contracting Company. This partnership reflects Accor’s ongoing expansion of its Handwritten Collection, which was launched in January 2023 and has quickly grown to over 15 properties, with more than 25 hotels currently in development across the globe.
Accor’s Handwritten Collection is known for offering design-led hotels that provide a personal touch, blending the charm of independent properties with the backing of a global hospitality brand. Each hotel in the collection embodies the essence of stylish homes, tailored for travellers seeking immersive experiences. The Handwritten Collection Al Baha is expected to follow this philosophy, featuring bespoke dining experiences and inviting interiors that reflect local culture and design.
Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor’s premium, midscale, and economy division for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific, along with Mansoor Abdullah Hussein Al Hilali, founder and chairman of Al Hilali Trading and Contracting Company, were present at the signing event, marking a significant milestone in Accor's regional expansion plans.
Speaking on the brand’s growth, Camil Yazbeck, Global Chief Development Officer for Accor Premium, Midscale & Economy brands, noted that the Handwritten Collection was designed to support independent midscale hotels. The concept allows these properties to retain their unique character while benefiting from the global reach and support of Accor. He added, "We are pleased with the positive response from owners and partners and are excited about the future expansion of the Handwritten Collection globally."
Accor’s Handwritten Collection will soon open its first Middle Eastern property in Istanbul, Turkey, this October. The Levni Istanbul Hotel – Handwritten Collection will feature 72 rooms, drawing inspiration from the Ottoman Empire’s Tulip Era, with a strong focus on local art and culture. Additionally, the brand is expanding further into Africa, with Hotel Andalucia Maputo in Mozambique, set to open in 2026.
As Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer for Accor’s Middle East and Africa premium, midscale, and economy brands, mentioned, the Handwritten Collection reflects the growing demand for authentic stays and personalized travel experiences. He emphasized that travellers today seek deeper connections with local cultures, and the Handwritten Collection is perfectly positioned to meet these evolving expectations.
The Handwritten Collection Al Baha promises to offer a unique blend of luxury, culture, and personalized service, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s growing hospitality sector and the Kingdom’s efforts to attract more international visitors. With its stunning location and commitment to quality, this property is set to become a key destination for both leisure travellers and those seeking unforgettable experiences.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 19, 2025
Laguna Golf Lang Co continues its winning streak on the global stage with its latest recognition—being named one of Asia’s Top 100 Golf Courses by the Asia Golf Leaders Forum (AGLF). The announcement came during the prestigious Asia Golf Awards Ceremony held in South Korea.
Part of the iconic Laguna Lang Co integrated resort in Vietnam, the championship course has consistently received accolades for its stunning layout, guest experience, and commitment to eco-conscious operations. Designed by six-time Major winner Sir Nick Faldo, the 18-hole course blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings—set between jungle-clad mountains and the East Sea, with dramatic streams, rice paddies, and rocky outcrops defining the play.
“We’re thrilled to be recognised among the top golf courses in Asia,” shared Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co. “This award reflects the passion and precision our team brings every day. It's also a tribute to Sir Nick Faldo’s vision, which continues to attract and inspire players worldwide.”
The course isn’t just visually striking—it’s also earned respect for its sustainability initiatives. Its globally praised “edible golf course” concept integrates working rice paddies maintained by local farmers and water buffalo, showcasing a harmonious blend of golf and local heritage.
The Asia Top 100 list—compiled by leading golf media, professionals, and influencers—recognises excellence in course design, maintenance, and guest services across the region.
Laguna Golf Lang Co’s growing list of awards includes:
“Vietnam’s Best Golf Resort” by World Golf Awards
Top 10 Golf Resorts in Asia-Pacific by Golf Travel Magazine
Multiple certifications for environmental and agronomic excellence
But golf is just the beginning. The resort offers a full destination experience, including:
Banyan Tree’s luxury Seaview Pool Villas
World-class dining options serving Vietnamese and international cuisine
Banyan Tree Spa, cultural excursions to Hue Imperial City and Bach Ma National Park
Family-friendly activities like archery, water sports, and kids’ programmes
“This destination has become so much more than a golf course,” said Banks. “Laguna Lang Co is a full lifestyle experience—uniting world-class golf with culture, nature, and luxury hospitality. We're proud to play a part in putting Vietnam on the map as a top-tier golf destination in Asia.”
Published on June 18, 2025
Meliá Chiang Mai is set to light up the city’s skyline with a spectacular celebration this Pride Month, as MAI The Sky Bar—the highest bar in Chiang Mai—reopens on June 28 with “Glow Up! A Black Ruby Pride Party”. The vibrant evening will honour Thailand’s historic legalisation of same-sex marriage and the broader message of celebrating love in all colours.
Located on the 22nd floor of the hotel, the rooftop bar offers panoramic views from the Ping River to the majestic Doi Suthep Temple, with its glass bridge and multi-level terraces offering one of the city’s most breathtaking spots to party under the stars.
The Pride-themed celebration promises:
A fabulous drag queen show by Chiang Mai’s BLOW Entertainment
Live music from resident DJs
A best costume contest, with the winner earning a complimentary stay at Meliá Chiang Mai
A signature “Black Ruby” cocktail included in the THB 500 entry fee
Guests are encouraged to dress in their loudest and proudest outfits, adding to the sparkle of the night. The first seven table bookings will also receive a free cocktail basket, making it a truly exclusive experience.
Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish roots, MAI The Sky Bar will serve up a curated menu of tapas, pinchos, and gourmet desserts, all made using 100% real ingredients with a strong focus on local, sustainable, and organic farming. Highlights include:
Croquetas and mixed grill skewers
Fresh summer rolls with tamarind dip
Salmon tiradito with mango passion fruit dressing and avocado mousse
Chocolate mud cake and tiramisu jars
To pair with the culinary delights, the bar offers an extensive selection of spirits, wines, mocktails, teas, coffees, and fresh juices.
This Pride celebration is more than just a party—it’s a toast to love, freedom, and visibility in a setting as elevated as the occasion itself.
Published on June 16, 2025
In a world that moves at breakneck speed, there is something quietly powerful about choosing stillness. This Global Wellness Day, step into spaces that allow you to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself. Here are six hand-picked wellness destinations where nature, culture, and calm converge to help you breathe deeper and be more present.
Thailand
At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, mornings begin with the sound of waves and end with crystal sound healing under open skies. The resort’s wellness journeys include ocean-facing meditation, Thai massages, and vitality pools. Dining at Sri Trang reflects the same care with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes rooted in traditional Thai techniques. Here, stillness feels as luxurious as the view.
Ras Al Khaimah
At Camp 1770, perched 1,770 metres above sea level in the Jebel Jais Mountain range, wellness begins before sunrise. Sound healing and yoga unfold with the shifting sky as your backdrop. Down below, the Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island invites guests for yoga on the beach and spa rituals like the Desert Sand Reviver at Citrine Spa. Also worth exploring are the extensive wellness programmes at Anantara Mina Al Arab and nature-inspired yoga sessions at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert.
Kenya
Kenya offers a more grounded approach to wellness. At The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille in Laikipia, guided walks with Maasai hosts end with quiet reflection on cliffside decks. On the coast, Watamu Treehouse features treetop meditation and breathwork with views of the Indian Ocean. It’s wellness guided not by routines, but by rhythm of nature, wind, and waves.
Qatar
The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island on The Pearl-Qatar introduces wellness as a lifestyle. At the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie, Swiss precision meets holistic science to deliver personalized therapies. Infinity pools, cabanas, and wellness-driven design make this island feel like a sanctuary that supports your wellbeing naturally and luxuriously.
Sri Lanka
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Camellia Hills offers views of Castlereagh Lake and tea-covered slopes—an ideal setting for quiet reflection. Near Colombo, The Wallawwa hosts Vikasa Wellness, a programme blending mindful movement, meditation, and ancient Sri Lankan sound healing rituals. These properties from Teardrop Hotels are curated for solo travellers and couples seeking a deeper, more personal retreat.
Israel
Floating in the Dead Sea, you feel your shoulders drop and breath slow wellness in its purest form. In the Negev Desert, Desert Ashram provides unplugged weekends filled with movement and community. In Amirim, a plant-based moshav, boutique eco-stays host Kabbalah-based workshops and meditation, creating a gentle return to self.
This June, pause intentionally. Choose stillness over speed. And let one of these places help you feel more like yourself again.
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