Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy Celebrate NFL's Brazil Debut with Fan Activations

Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy Celebrate NFL's Brazil Debut with Fan Activations

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 29, 2024

Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy, official sponsors of the NFL, are gearing up to celebrate the first-ever regular-season NFL game in Brazil. To mark this historic event, the brands are launching a series of fan activations in São Paulo, as part of the league's 2024 International Games. These activities aim to introduce American football to the local audience and enhance the excitement surrounding the sport in Brazil.

The festivities will begin with a Kicking Challenge, a unique event designed to bring the essence of American football to São Paulo. Local fans will have the chance to test their skills by kicking a field goal, an experience quite different from scoring a soccer goal. In a city known for its soccer talent, Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy are offering a new challenge by encouraging participants to kick an extra point—equivalent to a 33-yard (30-meter) field goal.

In addition to the Kicking Challenge, Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy® will host the Tailgate Experience at Arena Renaissance in downtown São Paulo. This event will be the first American football tailgate held in the city, featuring classic American pregame traditions. Attendees can enjoy popular dishes like burgers and chicken wings, alongside fun activities such as cornhole, football pong, and throwing the perfect spiral. This event promises to bring the energy and excitement of a U.S. pregame experience to both local Brazilians and visiting fans.

Adding to the excitement, NFL legend Jordy Nelson will make a surprise appearance. Fans participating in the events will have the opportunity to win tickets to the exclusive Tailgate Experience, as well as a chance to attend Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on February 9, 2025.

The Kicking Challenge will be held at Ibirapuera Park, across from the Monumento as Bandeiras, from September 3 to September 5, 2024, between 11 AM and 5 PM.

Brian King, President of the Caribbean and Latin America for Marriott International, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "GAME ON! We are excited to celebrate the first-ever regular-season NFL game in South America. For years, we have been the official hotel and hotel loyalty program of the NFL, unlocking experiences and passion for the game for fans around the world. Being able to cross cultures in such an important market as Brazil fills us with great pride."

As part of this celebration, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™ will offer an exclusive pregame tailgate party for Marriott Bonvoy members, followed by a premium viewing experience at Corinthians Arena where they can watch the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles warm up. The day will conclude with a luxurious two-night stay at the Renaissance São Paulo Hotel.

Marriott Bonvoy Moments™ allows members to access once-in-a-lifetime experiences around the globe by redeeming points accumulated from travel and other activities. These experiences, available through fixed-price offers or auctions, include exclusive options like private chef dinners and unique opportunities with global partners such as the NFL.

Courtyard by Marriott is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands. Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program and marketplace of Marriott International, boasts 210 million members who enjoy transformative experiences worldwide. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts and redeem them for future stays or Marriott Bonvoy Moments™.


Novotel Nairobi Westlands Hosts “Nyama Choma & Bond” Father’s Day Brunch

Novotel Nairobi Westlands Hosts “Nyama Choma & Bond” Father’s Day Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 14, 2025

 Novotel Nairobi Westlands is inviting families to make this Father’s Day truly special with a unique brunch celebration on Saturday, June 15th, 2025. Titled “Nyama Choma & Bond – Bold Flavors, Strong Bonds,” the event is thoughtfully designed to honor fathers while strengthening family ties through food, fun, and wellbeing experiences.

The highlight of the day will be a mouthwatering Nyama Choma spread, offering bold Kenyan flavors that every dad will love. Guests can choose between two brunch packages—Non-Alcoholic and Alcoholic—to suit their preferences. But the event goes beyond just food.

To ensure a complete family experience, the hotel has lined up fun games such as pool, darts, and board games, creating the perfect environment for bonding. For a touch of relaxation, Wellbeing Stations will offer massage and barber services, helping dads unwind and enjoy some pampering.

Adding an extra layer of excitement, a special giveaway will be organized exclusively for fathers, making them feel valued and appreciated.

Fabio Gonsalves, General Manager of Novotel Nairobi Westlands, shared,
“At Novotel Nairobi Westlands, we understand the deep and unique bond between fathers and their children. This Father's Day, we wanted to go beyond just food. With our Nyama Choma brunch, we’re celebrating bold flavors and even stronger bonds. It’s a day for families to create joyful memories together and truly honour the amazing dads in their lives.”

With its blend of great food, entertainment, and wellness, the Nyama Choma & Bond Brunch promises to be a memorable and meaningful celebration for the whole family.


The OZEN Collection and Champagne Guy Charbaut Mark Five Years of Celebrated Collaboration in the Maldives

The OZEN Collection and Champagne Guy Charbaut Mark Five Years of Celebrated Collaboration in the Maldives

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 14, 2025

 In a celebration that fuses timeless heritage with elevated indulgence, THE OZEN COLLECTION teams up with Champagne Guy Charbaut for the fifth consecutive year. This milestone marks a deepening partnership between the iconic Maldivian hospitality brand and the historic French champagne house, bringing a week-long series of refined experiences across two dreamy resorts—OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI—from 20th to 26th October 2025.

Founded in 1936, Champagne Guy Charbaut has nearly a century of expertise crafting elegant cuvées shaped by the terroir of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. Known for its refined approach to winemaking, the Maison’s philosophy aligns perfectly with THE OZEN COLLECTION’s commitment to crafting unforgettable luxury moments.

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OZEN LIFE MAADHOO | 20–22 October 2025

The celebration kicks off underwater at M6m on 20th October, where a dual lunch and dinner will be elevated by expertly curated Champagne pairings. The next day, the bold flavors of TRADITION INDOCEYLON take the spotlight in a “Champagne & Spice” dinner—a bold blend of Indian culinary tradition and French finesse. The festivities at MAADHOO conclude on 22nd October with the Champagne Brunch Royale at THE PALMS, a relaxed, bubbly affair that perfectly captures the essence of barefoot luxury.

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OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI | 24–26 October 2025

From 24th October—World Champagne Day—BOLIFUSHI will host a captivating overwater dining experience at ORIGINƎ, where the finest vintages accompany gourmet, ocean-inspired fare. On 25th October, the fan-favorite “Champagne & Spice” dinner returns at SAFFRON, once again marrying the bold warmth of Indian flavors with the elegance of French Champagne. The series wraps on a high note with a sunset pool party at OZAR on 26th October, where golden bubbles sparkle against the backdrop of the Maldivian golden hour.

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“We have discovered something extraordinary with THE OZEN COLLECTION,” shared Xavier Charbaut.
“What began as a meeting of philosophies—our devotion to terroir and their dedication to curated moments—has grown into a cherished tradition. The Maldives feels like a second home for our champagnes. We’re already imagining the next chapter: daring new pairings, deeper connections with our vintages, and a few surprises from our cellars.”

A Partnership Beyond the Events

The collaboration isn’t limited to a single week. Throughout the year, guests at both resorts can explore the Maison’s impressive portfolio—from the refined Cuvée de Réserve ‘Old Vines’ Brut to the vibrant Rosé 1er Cru Brut. Each pour is an invitation to transform ordinary moments into exceptional memories.

“This partnership exemplifies what luxury truly means today,” says Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core.
“It’s a celebration of tradition and innovation coming together—where every detail is intentional and every guest moment is designed to inspire.”

With five years of exceptional experiences behind them, THE OZEN COLLECTION and Champagne Guy Charbaut look ahead to a sparkling future filled with elegance, discovery, and plenty of bubbles.

To learn more or reserve your place, visit www.theozencollection.com or contact a Personal Ambassador.


Dig in Deeper: Local Dishes Around Asia that Truly Reflect the Destination's Culture

Dig in Deeper: Local Dishes Around Asia that Truly Reflect the Destination's Culture

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 13, 2025

Global travelers are increasingly seeking more authentic culinary experiences, choosing to "eat like the locals" as they explore Asia. Many top hotels and resorts across the continent now serve regional dishes that are rich in tradition, often lesser-known internationally, but beloved within local communities. Here’s a curated taste of such culinary gems:

Lẩu Thả in Phan Thiet, Vietnam

Served at Azerai Ke Ga Bay, this coastal hotpot dish features marinated white anchovy, pork belly, shredded omelette, green mango, herbs, and rice vermicelli. Diners can enjoy it dry with a creamy fermented sauce or as a soup with hot broth, making it a sensory dive into Vietnam’s seaside culture.

Bánh Khoái in Hue, Vietnam

At Azerai La Residence, Hue, guests savor this crisp rice-flour pancake stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, complemented by a rich peanut sauce. It's a royal snack from Vietnam’s imperial past, served with views of the Perfume River.

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Cao Lau in Da Nang/Hoi An, Vietnam

TIA Wellness Resort presents this noodle-based dish with Chinese and Japanese influences, featuring pork char siu, herbs, pork jus, and crispy wontons. A vegan version with tofu and lemongrass soy is also offered.

Nom Banh Chok in Siem Reap, Cambodia

This street-food favorite becomes fine dining at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, where rice noodles meet a fragrant fish-based curry and a medley of herbs and vegetables.

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Lobster Amok in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Raffles Hotel Le Royal elevates traditional Cambodian Amok with lobster, coconut curry, and herbs, served in banana leaf cups at its fine-dining Restaurant Le Royal.

Katsu Curry in Osaka, Japan

At Zentis Osaka’s UPSTAIRZ, B-kyu gurume cuisine is celebrated with Japanese beef filet katsu curry made with house-blended spices and premium ingredients, offering a bold, elevated twist on comfort food.

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Banh Cuon in Cam Ranh, Vietnam

Alma Resort’s buffet breakfast includes this steamed rice roll dish filled with pork, mushrooms, and herbs. It’s served with cinnamon pork loaf and pineapple-tomato fish sauce, highlighting Vietnamese culinary finesse.

Pineapple Bun in Hong Kong

Despite its name, this sweet bun contains no pineapple. Served at The Hari Hong Kong, its cookie-like top and soft bread base are a local breakfast or tea-time staple with historical roots.

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Pappardelle Soi Neur in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Meliá Chiang Mai reinvents Khao Soi with handmade pappardelle, beef sirloin, and a creamy curry, part of their sustainable 360° Cuisine concept.

Stir-fried Onion Flower Stems in Bangkok, Thailand

At INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, The Kites Eatery serves this earthy stir-fry with pork, a dish tied to central Thai home cooking and urban farming initiatives.

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Bún Chả in Hanoi, Vietnam

Spice Garden at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi offers a refined version of this grilled pork and noodle dish. Served with herbs and a tangy dipping sauce, it gained global attention during President Obama’s visit with Anthony Bourdain.

From Vietnam to Japan, and Cambodia to Thailand, these dishes go beyond taste—they carry the legacy of their lands. Each plate tells a story, giving travelers a deeper cultural connection through every bite.

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