Paris 2024 Olympics from the Musée d'Orsay Terrace

Celebrate the Start of the Paris 2024 Olympics from the Musée d'Orsay Terrace

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 11, 2024

This summer, you can celebrate the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games from a hidden gem in the heart of the city—a secret garden atop the Musée d'Orsay terrace. This exclusive event offers a unique blend of Olympic festivities, art, design, and Parisian charm, all for the amazing price of 0 euros.

On July 26, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., guests will gather on the Musée d'Orsay terrace to witness the extraordinary Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Breaking with tradition, this year’s ceremony will unfold on the iconic Seine River, featuring a parade of nations with each country represented by its own unique boat. Positioned along this majestic route, the Musée d'Orsay offers an unparalleled view of the flotilla and the 10,500 athletes making their way through the heart of Paris.

Your host for the evening, Mathieu Lehanneur, the visionary designer behind the Paris 2024 Games Torch and Cauldron, will welcome you into this world of wonder. Lehanneur’s creative genius will be on full display, transforming the terrace into a magical space that pays homage to the historic architecture of the Musée d'Orsay while celebrating the spirit of the Olympics.

“As a French designer, being part of such a significant global event taking place in Paris is an honor. Hosting this evening allows me to share my passion for both art and the Olympics with fans from around the world,” says Lehanneur.

The evening will begin in the main atrium of the Musée d'Orsay, where an art historian will guide you through an exclusive tour of the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art. This intimate tour will lead you to the museum’s terrace for a series of special experiences throughout the evening.

Highlights of the evening:

Exclusive Tour of Musée d'Orsay: Dive into the rich history and vibrant colors of the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art.

Prime Viewing of the Opening Ceremony: From your elevated seat on the terrace, enjoy a spectacular view of the boats and athletes parading down the Seine.

Tasting Workshop and Refreshments: Curated by Margot LeCarpentier, Paris’s “most influential bartender,” this workshop offers a tantalizing array of refreshments and light bites inspired by French flavors.

DJ Set by Kirou: Dance the night away to the beats of Kirou, founder of the Paris-based art and music collective 99GINGER, who will create a lively and festive atmosphere.

Exclusive Access to Designs by Mathieu Lehanneur: Marvel at the intricate designs of the Olympic Torch and Cauldron, and immerse yourself in the artistic vision of your host.

This private Airbnb experience is available for 0 EUR and will take place on July 26, 2024, from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m. on July 27, 2024. Booking opens on June 13th at 3 p.m. CET on airbnb.com/orsayexperience. The experience is available to 30 guests (15 requesting guests plus one each). Guests are responsible for their travel to and from Paris and accommodations. They will also need to comply with local regulations and obtain a digital pass (Pass Jeux) to access the Musée d'Orsay.

This event promises to be a celebration of art, culture, and the Olympic spirit, offering a night to remember for those lucky enough to attend.

Purim Meets Holi During India at Jaffa Port Celebrations in Israel

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 21, 2025

Cultural exchange continues to play a key role in the vibrant relationship between India and Israel, as seen in the recent India at Jaffa Port—Purim-Holi Celebrations. Hosted on March 16, 2025, by the Embassy of India in Israel in collaboration with the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo, the event blended two iconic festivals—Holi, India’s festival of colours, and Purim, the joyous Jewish holiday—into a grand celebration at the historic Jaffa Port.

The event, attended by over 3,000 visitors, celebrated the enduring friendship between the two nations, offering a fusion of traditions in a lively and colourful atmosphere. Guests enjoyed classical Indian dance performances, Bollywood dance workshops, traditional Indian music, and engaging activities, bringing the vibrancy of Indian culture to Israel.

Deputy Ambassador Rajiv Bodwade remarked, “I am happy to tell you that the Embassy of India, in collaboration with the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo, is celebrating the Indian Festival of Holi and the Jewish festival of Purim today, here in Jaffa Port. Interestingly, these two festivals fall on the same day yearly, as India and Israel traditionally follow the lunar calendar. This is just one of many examples of the cultural similarity that we share, which strengthens the unique and rich friendship between our two countries. While the rest of the world is focusing on cultural distinctiveness, India and Israel are happy to celebrate their similarities. Chag Purim Sameach and Happy Holi!”

Kobi Yerdani, CEO of Jaffa Port, added, “Jaffa Port is proud to collaborate with the Embassy of India in Israel to celebrate the Holi and Purim festivals. Jaffa Port, which has served as a gateway to the Land of Israel throughout history, is happy to open its gates to the rich and magnificent culture of India, a country that is a true friend of Israel.”

Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, Israel Ministry of Tourism, India, further commented, “India and Israel share cultural and historical ties, and events like the India at Jaffa Port highlight the warmth between our people. It was a beautiful representation of our shared traditions. We welcome more Indian travellers to explore this beautiful country and experience its unique blend of history, spirituality, and modernity.”

The Purim-Holi celebrations at Jaffa Port stand as a shining example of the growing cultural ties between India and Israel. With flourishing tourism, mutual respect, and deep-rooted connections, this event marked yet another milestone in the dynamic relationship between the two nations, paving the way for further collaborations in the future.

Banyan Tree Samui Unveils ‘White Lotus’ Inspired Luxury Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2025

Banyan Tree Samui, a MICHELIN-listed luxury resort perched on the southeastern coast of Koh Samui, is celebrating the rising global attention on the island with a series of new "White Lotus"-inspired offerings. This surge in interest, known as the "White Lotus Effect," stems from the acclaimed U.S. TV series, which has significantly boosted Koh Samui's status as a dream destination.

While the show wasn’t filmed at Banyan Tree Samui, guests will recognize the resort’s similar panoramic vistas and lush rainforest setting. "We expect an influx of visitors drawn to Koh Samui’s luxury appeal," said Remko Kroesen, General Manager of Banyan Tree Samui. "The show has put the island on the radar of travelers seeking premium, authentic experiences."

To mark the occasion, Banyan Tree Samui has launched new experiences inspired by the show. The resort’s Banyan Tree Spa Samui now offers the "Sense of Lotus" spa package, a 120-minute rejuvenating treatment that includes a White Lotus Polisher exfoliation followed by a calming body massage. Guests can also savour the exclusive White Lotus cocktail, blending vodka, white rum, lychee juice, coconut milk, and fresh lychee, garnished with dried rose petals.

For adventure seekers, the resort’s private speedboat, Sense of the Sea, is available for day trips to the Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine Park, which features prominently in the latest season of the series.

Set amid 38 acres of tropical gardens, Banyan Tree Samui features 88 villas, each with a private infinity pool overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. The resort is also home to three restaurants, including the MICHELIN-listed Saffron, an award-winning spa with hydrotherapy facilities, a kids' club, and a fitness centre.

With these new offerings, Banyan Tree Samui invites guests to experience the beauty and charm of Koh Samui, enriched by the allure of the "White Lotus" phenomenon.

For bookings and enquiries, contact samui@banyantree.com

Swiss-Belhotel International Honored with Prestigious Hospitality Awards

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 19, 2025

Swiss-Belhotel International, a global hospitality management group with a presence in 20 countries, has been honored with multiple prestigious industry awards in 2024 and early 2025. These accolades reinforce the group’s dedication to Passion and Professionalism™, a philosophy that blends Swiss efficiency with Asian warmth, ensuring an unparalleled guest experience across its portfolio of over 150 hotels.

Expressing his appreciation, Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, stated:

“Receiving these distinguished awards is nothing short of extraordinary. These achievements reflect the passion, dedication, and perseverance of our entire team. At Swiss-Belhotel International, we remain committed to delivering value to our owners, investing in our people, and continuously raising the bar for hospitality excellence. Looking ahead to 2025, we will continue to set new milestones—enhancing our offerings, streamlining operations, and empowering our exceptional team.”

A Legacy of Excellence: Key Awards Won

Legacy Family Business Award Asia Pacific – Family Business Association Excellence Awards 2024 (May 2024)
EY Entrepreneur of The Year 2024 – New Zealand Family Business Award (November 2024)
Hotel & Resort Management of the Year – Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 by Travel Daily Media (February 2025)
Most Excellence in Sustained Partnership Award – GarudaMiles Loyalty Summit 2025 (February 2025)
Excellence Award in Sustainable Hospitality – ESG Business Awards 2024, Hong Kong (September 2024)

These accolades highlight Swiss-Belhotel International’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation, and long-term partnerships, ensuring that each property thrives in its market while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality.

About Swiss-Belhotel International

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Swiss-Belhotel International is among the world’s fastest-growing hotel management groups. With 18 distinct brands and a strong owner-centric approach, the group provides expert management services for hotels, resorts, and serviced residences. Each property reflects the hallmark of Swiss efficiency and Asian-inspired service, ensuring quality and value at every level.

For more information, visit www.swiss-belhotel.com.

Welcome to post your talent

A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.

Celebrate the Start of the Paris 2024 Olympics from the Musée d'Orsay Terrace

Most Read In News

Purim Meets Holi During India at Jaffa Port Celebrations in Israel

Most Read In News

Banyan Tree Samui Unveils ‘White Lotus’ Inspired Luxury Experiences

Most Read In News

Swiss-Belhotel International Honored with Prestigious Hospitality Awards

A Legacy of Excellence: Key Awards Won

About Swiss-Belhotel International

Most Read In News