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.


adidas and Saudia Launch ‘Made to Fly’ Travel Pack

adidas and Saudia Launch ‘Made to Fly’ Travel Pack

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 6, 2026

adidas and Saudia have come together to introduce the ‘Made to Fly’ travel pack, marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration that brings sportswear and aviation into one space. The collection officially launched in retail on April 20 across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Morocco.

Saudia, as the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has played an important role in shaping the region’s travel experience over the years. By partnering with adidas, the collaboration aims to connect travel with modern sportswear, while appealing to a younger generation that sees travel as part of their lifestyle.

The collection is built on adidas’ SOFT LUX line, which focuses on clean design, premium materials and a refined look. With this collaboration, the classic tracksuit is reimagined as a modern travel essential, designed to suit both comfort and style.

Subtle design elements inspired by aviation and Saudi culture are woven into the collection, giving it a distinct identity while keeping the overall look minimal and contemporary. The idea is to create pieces that feel easy to wear, yet polished enough for different travel moments.

The garments are crafted using peached spacer fabric with modal and enhanced with a liquid cotton treatment, giving them a smooth texture and a soft feel. This makes the collection suitable for long journeys, airport transitions and everyday wear.

Speaking about the collaboration, Bilal Fares, SVP and GM, adidas EMC, said, “This collaboration allowed us to reinterpret one of adidas’ most refined sportswear lines through the lens of travel, alongside a brand that has shaped the Kingdom’s travel culture for generations. By bringing together Saudia’s connection to movement and adidas’ sportswear heritage, we created a collection that feels elevated, effortless and relevant to today’s consumer.”

The ‘Made to Fly’ pack blends elements of fashion, travel and movement, positioning the tracksuit as a modern-day travel uniform. It reflects how today’s travellers see their journeys not just as a way to move, but also as an expression of identity and personal style.

Khaled Tash, Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer, added, “For 80 years, Saudia has connected the Kingdom to the world. Today, travel is no longer defined only by destinations, but by identity, culture, and self-expression. Building on our 2023 rebrand, which marked a new chapter in our global journey, we are expanding our brand presence beyond aviation into culture and lifestyle. Our collaboration with adidas brings these elements together, transforming movement into a statement of modern Saudi ambition and capturing the confidence and creativity shaping the Kingdom today.”

The adidas x Saudia ‘Made to Fly’ travel pack is available at select adidas stores across the region and online, offering a fresh take on travel-ready fashion.


Emirates Restores 96% of Global Network, Strengthens Dubai Hub

Emirates Restores 96% of Global Network, Strengthens Dubai Hub

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 6, 2026

Emirates has announced a near-complete return to its global operations, with 96% of its network now restored after a period of disruption. Over the past few weeks, the airline has gradually resumed services across key regions including the Americas, Europe, Africa, West Asia, the Middle East/GCC, the Far East, and Australasia.

At present, Emirates operates flights to 137 destinations across 72 countries, with more than 1,300 weekly frequencies. This accounts for around 75% of its pre-disruption capacity, as the airline continues to increase flights, seat availability, and travel options for passengers. The move also reinforces Dubai as a major global hub connecting international travellers.

Even during the disruption period, Emirates carried 4.7 million passengers between 1 March and 30 April, reflecting steady demand for travel and continued trust in the airline’s services.

Passengers flying with Emirates can expect a consistent and high-quality experience both onboard and on the ground. The airline offers regionally inspired, multi-course meals prepared by experienced chefs, along with a wide range of premium beverages. Its inflight entertainment system, ice, features over 6,500 channels across nearly 40 languages, including movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, and more. High-speed Wi-Fi is also available, with Starlink connectivity currently live on 28 aircraft, allowing passengers to stay connected during their journey.

To make travel more convenient, Emirates has introduced several customer-friendly benefits. Bookings made from 2 April include one free date change across all cabin classes, and travellers can hold fares for up to 24 hours at no cost. The airline’s Dubai Connect programme offers added comfort for passengers with transit times between 6 to 26 hours, providing complimentary hotel stays, airport transfers, meals, and visa support where required.

Additionally, Emirates Skywards members can benefit from faster tier upgrades and Bonus Tier Miles on Emirates and flydubai flights between 1 May and 31 August 2026.

For Indian travellers, Emirates continues to maintain strong connectivity with 167 daily flights between Dubai and nine cities, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram, ensuring smooth and reliable travel options.


Raffles Hotel Le Royal Introduces ‘Mindy’s’ Pop-Up Speakeasy in Phnom Penh

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Introduces ‘Mindy’s’ Pop-Up Speakeasy in Phnom Penh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 5, 2026

Raffles Hotel Le Royal has introduced ‘Mindy’s’, a pop-up speakeasy that brings the charm of 1920s-1940s New York to Phnom Penh. Known for its long-standing legacy, the 97-year-old luxury hotel is adding a fresh layer to its offerings with this immersive nightlife experience.

Set to run from May 7 to 31, Mindy’s will be open from Thursday to Sunday between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. The concept draws inspiration from the golden era of speakeasies, blending vintage style with a modern touch.

Hidden behind an unmarked door, the space recreates the quiet and exclusive feel of classic speakeasies. Guests are welcomed into an intimate setting with dim lighting, vintage décor, and subtle gaming elements. The experience is brought to life by engaging bartenders, while the sound of jazz and swing music adds to the overall mood. A dedicated cigar lounge further enhances the setting, offering a refined evening for visitors.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, General Manager Dagmar Lyons said, “We are thrilled to bring the vibrant energy and timeless glamour of old New York to Raffles Hotel Le Royal with Mindy’s. This immersive pop-up perfectly embodies Raffles’ spirit of storytelling and exceptional experiences, offering our guests and Phnom Penh’s discerning crowd a truly unique evening they won’t forget.”

The pop-up also features a specially curated cocktail menu that reflects the theme. Signature creations include Sky Masterson’s Lucky Flight made with bourbon, honey syrup, lemon and bitters, finished with a flaming orange peel, Miss Adelaide’s Lament with London Dry Gin, raspberry liqueur, lemon and cocktail foamer, and Nathan Detroit’s Hustle combining rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters and cherry candy. For non-alcoholic options, The Reformer offers a refreshing mix of ginger beer, lime and mint.

Open to both hotel guests and visitors, Mindy’s aims to offer a memorable evening that blends heritage, music and crafted drinks. With its limited run and unique concept, reservations are recommended for those looking to experience this exclusive pop-up.

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