InterContinental Opens First Hotel in Greek Islands on Crete

InterContinental Opens First Hotel in Greek Islands on Crete

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 7, 2024

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has launched its first property in the Greek Islands, introducing InterContinental Crete. This new addition to IHG Hotels & Resorts' luxury and lifestyle portfolio, now the second largest in the world, represents a fresh take on contemporary Grecian hospitality. The property aligns with InterContinental's ongoing evolution, rooted in over 75 years of luxury travel heritage.

InterContinental Crete is situated along the pristine coastline of Mirabello Bay, offering panoramic views and a rugged coastal backdrop. The resort’s modern architecture and state-of-the-art amenities provide a tranquil escape just a short walk from the bustling coastal city of Agios Nikolaos. The island’s capital, Heraklion, and its airport are less than an hour away, making the hotel easily accessible for international travelers.

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The resort features two outdoor infinity pools overlooking Mirabello Bay and three Mediterranean-inspired restaurants. These dining venues are led by Michelin-starred Chef Consultant Nikos Roussos, who crafts menus that celebrate Cretan culinary heritage with locally sourced ingredients.

The Aegeo Spa offers a range of treatments, including a Cretan massage with local olive oil, saffron-infused anti-aging therapies, and antioxidant-rich cryotherapy. The spa’s facilities include a hammam, sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and relaxation areas. Additionally, there is a fully equipped gym for guests.

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InterContinental Crete boasts 199 guestrooms and suites designed to evoke serenity and elegance. The rooms feature contemporary linens, organic-inspired décor, and traditional Cretan influences. Many rooms offer private plunge pools, balconies, and luxurious amenities, making them ideal for couples, families, and multi-generational travelers.

The hotel's three restaurants—ZEUS, KNOSSOS, and MINOAN—are overseen by Chef Nikos Roussos, who has earned two Michelin stars. The culinary offerings focus on modern Greek cuisine, emphasizing seasonality and local ingredients. The wine list highlights indigenous grape varieties, and cocktail menus are crafted by award-winning mixologist Elias Stergiopoulos, designed to complement the scenic setting.

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InterContinental Crete integrates the island's rich history and natural beauty into its design. Guests are greeted by an original sculpture combining elements of the Sphinx and Minotaur, reflecting Crete’s ancient myths. Bronze creatures adorn the corridor handrails, adding a touch of local artistry throughout the property.

The hotel’s concierge team acts as cultural connectors, offering guests personalized experiences such as tours of archaeological sites, traditional villages, natural gorges, vineyards, and olive groves. This focus on local culture aligns with InterContinental’s belief in the power of travel to expand the mind and connect diverse cultures.

InterContinental Crete sets a new standard for luxury hospitality in the Greek Islands, blending modern amenities with cultural richness. The resort invites guests to explore the timeless beauty of Crete, from its historical sites to its stunning landscapes. With rooms starting at €205 per night for IHG One Rewards members, InterContinental Crete promises an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.


Kuwait Launches ‘Visit Kuwait’ – A Comprehensive Hub for Tourism, Culture, and E-Visas

Kuwait Launches ‘Visit Kuwait’ – A Comprehensive Hub for Tourism, Culture, and E-Visas

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 10, 2025

Kuwait has launched its new national tourism portal, ‘Visit Kuwait,’ offering a seamless gateway for travelers seeking visas, cultural insights, and curated travel plans, all in one place. This digital platform is a key part of Kuwait’s Vision 2035 strategy, designed to enhance the country’s tourism experience and expand its global reach.

The portal simplifies the visa process with a fully online system for tourist, business, family, and official visas, eliminating the need for embassy visits. At the same time, it brings together a rich collection of travel tools, destination guides, cultural calendars, event updates, and practical travel tips, to help visitors explore Kuwait with ease.

Beyond its functional features, Visit Kuwait also acts as a cultural showcase. Users can dive into Kuwait’s unique offerings, from modern landmarks like Kuwait Towers and the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Centre to vibrant souks, festivals, and historic museums.

The initiative is more than just a convenience, it plays a vital role in Kuwait’s economic transformation. As part of the Vision 2035 agenda, the portal supports the government’s aim to reduce oil dependency by strengthening the tourism sector. With a unified, digital-first approach, Kuwait is stepping into the global tourism spotlight, ready to welcome the world with open arms.


Rocco Forte Hotels and Emerald Pine Capital Form Strategic Partnership for Europe & Middle East Growth

Rocco Forte Hotels and Emerald Pine Capital Form Strategic Partnership for Europe & Middle East Growth

By Hariharan U

Published on August 10, 2025

Rocco Forte Hotels has announced a strategic partnership with Emerald Pine Capital to drive its expansion across Europe and the Middle East. The collaboration aims to combine Rocco Forte’s renowned operational excellence with Emerald Pine Capital’s investment and asset management expertise, creating a highly aligned team capable of sourcing, underwriting, structuring, and executing high-value hospitality projects.

The partners will focus on repositioning, value-add, and development opportunities in gateway cities and high-demand leisure destinations, offering a compelling proposition for investors and a streamlined process for asset owners.

Charles Forte, Director of Development at Rocco Forte Hotels, said, “I am pleased to be able to announce our partnership with Emerald Pine Capital and I am confident that their years of experience and strong reputation within the financial world will further fortify our existing team and our expansionary efforts in Europe and beyond”.

Fabrizio Grena, Founding Partner and CEO of Emerald Pine Capital, added “As the luxury hospitality sector continues to evolve, we are delighted to partner with Rocco Forte to offer a distinctive combination of expertise and skill sets to our clients and partners. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to quality and long-term value creation in the hospitality space”.

About Emerald Pine Capital

 Emerald Pine Capital is an independent investment and asset management firm specialising in real estate investments across Europe alongside institutional partners. Founded by Fabrizio Grena and Alessandro Ferrante, both former Goldman Sachs real estate investment professionals, the firm has over €10 billion in deployed capital and 30 years of combined investment experience.

About Rocco Forte Hotels

 Established in 1996 by Sir Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels is a collection of 15 landmark hotels, resorts, residences, and villas in exceptional locations, known for a distinctive approach to personalised service. Upcoming openings include The Carlton, Milan (2025); Costa Smeralda, Sardinia and Palazzo Castelluccio, Noto (2026); and Palazzo Sirignano, Naples (2027).


LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar to Host Exclusive Whisky Cocktail Takeover on August 15

LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar to Host Exclusive Whisky Cocktail Takeover on August 15

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2025

LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, the vibrant rooftop venue crowning the 33rd and 34th floors of INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, is set to host an exciting whisky cocktail takeover event on August 15.

The event, titled ‘LUZ x Prakaan Guest Shift Glow’, will welcome renowned bartender and Prakaan Whisky brand ambassador, Bank Watcharapong Suriyaphan, from 7 PM to 9 PM. Known for his expertise as the founder of Tale of the Spirits bar academy and books, as well as a seasoned bar owner and manager, Suriyaphan will craft four exclusive cocktails specially curated for this one-night-only event.

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  •  Sol de Miel (The Golden Glow) – A sweet blend of Prakaan Select Cask, citrus honey shrub, vanilla, lemon, and soda.
  •  El Misterio (The Mystery) – A smoky creation featuring Prakaan Peated Malt, dry vermouth, fig jam, and cocoa bitters.
  • LUZ Oscura (Dark Light) – A nutty profile crafted with Prakaan Double Cask, Amontillado Sherry, Frangelico, and bitters. 
  • Flamenco Flame (The Fire Within) – A vibrant mix of Prakaan Peated Malt, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering, citrus, and caramel.

Beyond the beverages, the venue offers an elevated atmosphere. While the 33rd floor houses the tapas bar itself with striking architectural design inspired by Bangkok’s Rama VIII Bridge, the 34th floor opens into a pool bar and transparent infinity pool with a rooftop terrace. The decor pays tribute to the city’s Giant Swing, blending modern aesthetics with cultural nods.

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LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar is known for serving authentic Spanish tapas complemented by Thai ingredients, along with a curated selection of Spanish wines, beers on tap, cocktails, and signature sangrias.

The bar is open daily from 4 PM to midnight, making it an ideal spot for sunset views and late-night indulgence.

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