Wynn Resorts continues to dominate the luxury hospitality industry, securing the most Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards of any independent hotel company in the world for 2025. This prestigious recognition underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled service, innovative design, and top-tier guest experiences across its global portfolio.

Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, credited the achievement to the dedication of the brand’s team members. “Each and every one of our team members plays a role in earning and maintaining the coveted Five-Star distinction. Their attention to detail, commitment to heartfelt hospitality, and passion for creating beautifully designed spaces make this recognition possible.”

For the second consecutive year, Wynn Palace remains the world’s largest Forbes Five-Star resort, with Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau standing as the only properties worldwide to receive six individual Five-Star distinctions. Wynn Palace also boasts the highest number of Five-Star-rated restaurants in any individual resort globally, a title it has held for six consecutive years. Among its acclaimed restaurants are Chef Tam’s Seasons, SW Steakhouse, Mizumi, and Sushi Mizumi.

Meanwhile, at Wynn Las Vegas, Wing Lei continues to be the only Forbes Five-Star Chinese restaurant in North America, while Encore Boston Harbor holds its position as the largest Five-Star regional resort casino in the region.

Beyond these accolades, Wynn Resorts is expanding its global footprint, with Wynn Al Marjan Island set to open in the United Arab Emirates in 2027. This development promises to introduce a new level of luxury to the region, further cementing Wynn’s status as a leader in the hospitality industry.

With these remarkable achievements, Wynn Resorts continues to set new benchmarks in luxury, ensuring that guests across the world experience the highest standards of hospitality.

Ras Al Khaimah is set to host Jais Ride, an exhilarating cycling race that will challenge participants to conquer the legendary 25km ascent of Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE. The event, organized by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), aims to enhance the region’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class sporting events.

Scheduled for April 12-13, 2025, Jais Ride will attract both professional and amateur cyclists eager to tackle one of the UAE’s most scenic and demanding cycling routes. The mountain’s modern road, built in 2017, is regarded as one of the world’s finest, offering smooth ascents, sharp switchbacks, and dramatic elevation changes.

Exciting Race Format & Prizes

The race will include strategic checkpoints and sprint segments, adding an element of competition beyond endurance. Riders will compete for top honors in multiple categories:

• Sprint Segment (Green Jersey Award): A 500-metre sprint, with the fastest sprinter earning the Green Jersey.

• King of the Mountain (KOM) Points: Points will be awarded to the top 20 riders at split points (7km, 14km, and 21km), with the leader at each checkpoint earning 20 points.

• Polka Dot Jersey Award: The cyclist accumulating the highest total KOM points will be recognized as the best climber of the race.

• Yellow Jersey Award – Overall Winners: The first three cyclists to summit will receive the prestigious Yellow Jersey.
  

  

A Statement from RAKTDA CEO

Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, shared his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are excited to introduce this thrilling new cycling event on Jebel Jais, offering cyclists the unique opportunity to test their endurance on one of the world’s most breathtaking and challenging mountain roads. As part of our commitment to establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a leading destination for outdoor adventure and sports, this tournament brings world-class sporting experiences to the emirate, showcasing its natural beauty and dynamic landscapes.”

Event Details & Registration 

With its demanding climb, rewarding summit, and spectacular views, Jais Ride is expected to draw cycling enthusiasts from across the UAE and beyond. Participants can register for the event online via www.rakcalendar.ae/events/jaisride. Complimentary refreshments will be available along the route, and an awards ceremony will honor top finishers in each category.

Ras Al Khaimah’s Thriving Sports Scene

Ras Al Khaimah has solidified its reputation as a top sports and adventure tourism destination, hosting high-profile events like the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the UAE Tour, and the HIGHLANDER Adventure hiking event. Jebel Jais, standing at 1,934 meters above sea level, remains one of the UAE’s most visited natural attractions and a global hotspot for adventure tourism.

For more details and registration, visit: www.rakcalendar.ae/events/jaisride

Central Vietnam is cooking up a storm in the global culinary scene, and Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs are at the heart of the action. With the arrival of MICHELIN Guide inspectors in Da Nang, the region has officially joined Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as one of Vietnam’s premier gourmet hubs.

Long known for its diverse culinary offerings, Central Vietnam tempts visitors with an irresistible mix of iconic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi, alongside regional specialties such as mi Quang (turmeric rice noodles with shrimp and pork), bun cha ca (fishcake noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese crepe), and congee with braised duck. Fresh seafood, sourced daily from local waters, remains a standout attraction for food lovers.

Adding a touch of fine dining excellence to the mix is La Maison 1888, a one-Michelin-starred French restaurant in Da Nang that continues to attract gourmands from across the world.

Gourmet Experiences at Vietnam Golf Coast Clubs

VGC clubs have embraced this culinary renaissance, ensuring visitors enjoy a world-class golf and dining experience.

• Laguna Golf Lang Co offers ten diverse restaurants, ranging from Mediterranean delights at Azura to traditional Vietnamese flavors at The Water Court and refined Thai cuisine at Saffron, perched on a hilltop with panoramic sea views. The resort’s 67 Bar, located within an alfresco clubhouse, provides the perfect spot to unwind post-game with crafted cocktails and stunning golf course views.

• Montgomerie Links elevates the golf experience with Birdies, an acclaimed restaurant blending East-meets-West flavors. The menu features seasonal dishes crafted with the finest local ingredients, ensuring every visit is a fresh and exciting culinary journey.

• Ba Na Hills Golf Club takes pride in its clubhouse restaurant, serving everything from Vietnamese specialties to Korean and Western dishes, catering to international visitors. The club’s culinary reputation was cemented when it won the 2024 Vietnam Golf & Leisure Award for Best F&B Course. Located near the renowned BaNa Brewhouse, golfers can enjoy a refreshing SunKraftbeer after a round.

Beyond the Golf Clubs: A Culinary Odyssey

The culinary magic extends to the region’s historical cities as well. In Hoi An, visitors can indulge in cao lau and white rose dumplings, while Hue’s imperial cuisine, featuring bun bo Hue, reflects its royal heritage. These flavors, steeped in tradition yet evolving with modern influences, ensure that Central Vietnam remains a dream destination for food lovers and golf enthusiasts alike.

With MICHELIN recognition, world-class dining, and elite golf facilities, Central Vietnam is teeing up an experience that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable.