Meliá Hotels International Expands in Greece with INNSiDE Crete Elounda

Meliá Hotels International Expands in Greece with INNSiDE Crete Elounda

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 8, 2024

Spanish hotel chain Meliá Hotels International is expanding its footprint in Greece with the introduction of INNSiDE Crete Elounda. This new addition marks the company's fifth property in Greece and the first under the INNSiDE by Meliá brand in the country.

The agreement to launch INNSiDE Crete Elounda was signed on May 24, 2024, and represents a significant step in lifestyle travel for Greece. This move strengthens Meliá’s partnership with Zeus Hotels, bringing their combined offering to over 1,050 rooms.

Located in the picturesque town of Elounda on Crete's northeastern coast, the hotel will occupy the site of the current Elounda Ilion. The property, perched atop a hill with panoramic sea views, will undergo a complete renovation and rebranding to meet INNSiDE’s high standards. Set to open in May 2025, the 5-star INNSiDE Crete Elounda will blend traditional Greek charm with luxurious modern amenities, offering guests an unparalleled holiday experience.

INNSiDE Crete Elounda: More Than a Hotel

INNSiDE by Meliá is designed for modern, adventurous travelers. Each property reflects the essence of its location, fostering a sense of community among guests. INNSiDE Crete Elounda will feature:

Luxurious Accommodations: 85 rooms that combine contemporary luxury with comfort.

Integrated Common Area: A seamless space that includes the lobby, reception, and bar, ideal for both work and relaxation.

Top-Notch Amenities: From in-room facilities to the innovative Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness centers.

Sustainable Practices: Emphasizing eco-friendly initiatives with minimal paper and plastic use, organic toiletries, and events featuring local culture and artists.

This holistic approach ensures guests enjoy a sense of freedom and creativity, designed for independent travelers with a spirit of adventure. Sustainability is a core focus, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing a luxurious experience.

Lefteris Papakaliatis, CEO of Zeus Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to extend our successful partnership with Meliá Hotels International. The new hotel in Elounda reinforces our commitment to raising Greek hospitality standards and offering exceptional experiences to our guests.”

Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman & CEO of Meliá Hotels International, added, “We are excited to introduce INNSiDE by Meliá to Greece. This partnership allows us to combine Meliá Hotels International’s industry expertise with Greece’s unrivaled hospitality, strengthening our presence in both the Greek market and the wider Mediterranean region.”

INNSiDE Crete Elounda joins Meliá’s expanding portfolio in Greece, which includes Sol Marina Beach, Sol Cosmopolitan, and Blue Sea Beach, all in partnership with Zeus Hotels, as well as the Meliá Athens hotel in the capital.

About Meliá Hotels International

Founded in 1956 in Mallorca, Spain, Meliá Hotels International operates more than 400 hotels in over 40 countries under nine brands. Known for its commitment to responsible tourism, Meliá has been recognized as Europe’s most sustainable hotel company. The group's Mediterranean roots and extensive experience in leisure-inspired urban hotels make it a leader in the global hospitality industry.


Monika Alcobev Brings Spain’s Iconic Licor 43 to India

Monika Alcobev Brings Spain’s Iconic Licor 43 to India

By Hariharan U

Published on August 30, 2025

 Monika Alcobev Limited, India’s only listed premium wine and spirits importer, has announced the arrival of Licor 43, Spain’s most celebrated liqueur, to Indian shores. Recognised as the world’s fastest-growing premium liqueur, Licor 43 is now officially available in India, a market that continues to embrace premium spirits and cocktail culture.

The launch reflects Monika Alcobev’s growing role in introducing globally acclaimed brands to Indian consumers. Known for its strong distribution network and premium alcobev portfolio, the company has partnered with Spain’s Zamora Company to bring this iconic liqueur into bars, restaurants, and retail shelves across India.

“Bringing Licor 43 to India is a significant milestone, not just for us, but for the evolving palate of Indian consumers”, said Kunal Patel, Managing Director of Monika Alcobev. “The brand is iconic, versatile, and crafted for modern mixology, and we’re excited to lead its debut in the Indian market.”

Crafted from a blend of 43 natural ingredients including botanicals, spices, and citrus fruits  Licor 43 has been a Spanish household favourite for over 70 years. Today, it enjoys popularity in more than 80 countries worldwide. In India, drinkers will now be able to try its globally loved serves such as the refreshing Mini Beer and the indulgent Carajillo 43.

The Indian launch includes Licor 43 Original (700ml and 1000ml), along with indulgent variants such as Licor 43 Chocolate (700ml) and Licor 43 Crème Brûlée (700ml). The debut also brings in other favourites from Zamora Company’s portfolio: Martin Miller’s Gin, and Villa Massa’s Limoncello and Amaretto.

Expressing excitement about the partnership, Ankit Shah, Area Director, AMEA, Zamora Company, said, “The imported spirits market in India is steadily growing, driven by higher disposable incomes and a strong premiumization trend. We are confident that our partnership with Monika Alcobev will help us connect with discerning consumers seeking unique and high-quality products”.

Monika Alcobev already enjoys a strong foothold in North and West India and is expanding rapidly in the South, with reach across Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The launch of Licor 43 will also extend to key cities in East India, strengthening its pan-India presence. Currently, Licor 43 is available in Goa and Mumbai, with more markets to follow soon. Its tagline, “Mix Something New” reflects the brand’s spirit of innovation and Monika Alcobev’s commitment to bringing the finest global flavours to Indian consumers.

With this debut, Monika Alcobev not only adds another celebrated name to its growing portfolio but also reinforces its mission to shape India’s premium spirits landscape.


Ellenborough Park Introduces Japanese Head Spa, Elevates Wellness Luxury in the Cotswolds

Ellenborough Park Introduces Japanese Head Spa, Elevates Wellness Luxury in the Cotswolds

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 29, 2025

Ellenborough Park, set within 90 acres of idyllic Cotswolds countryside, is redefining luxury wellness with the introduction of the Japanese Head Spa, a first-of-its-kind offering among UK country estates. Just two and a half hours from London, the historic estate has long been celebrated for its timeless English charm and distinguished wellness offerings, now further enhanced with new treatments and immersive experiences.

At the heart of Ellenborough Park’s wellness portfolio lies the Spa Garden Retreat, a private sanctuary enclosed by historic cobblestone walls and lush flora. Guests can indulge in a glass-enclosed hot tub, traditional Scandinavian sauna, and an invigorating ice bath, designed to promote circulation and detoxification. Constructed with recycled materials and surrounded by native plant life, the retreat embodies the estate’s commitment to sustainable luxury.

The newly launched Japanese Head Spa elevates relaxation with a treatment that has gained popularity worldwide. Combining scalp massage, acupressure, and detox techniques, the therapy improves circulation, encourages hair growth, and promotes restorative sleep, making it a holistic experience that goes beyond beauty. This new addition complements Ellenborough Park’s six spa treatment rooms, thermal suites, heated outdoor pool, fitness centre, and meditation-focused Karma Room.

Wellness extends beyond the spa, as the estate encourages guests to immerse themselves in the Cotswolds landscape. Complimentary walking maps highlight scenic routes of varying distances, ideal for all ages. Guests can also enjoy countryside activities, explore chocolate-box villages such as Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, and visit nearby attractions including Sudeley Castle and the Cotswold Farm Park. For equestrian enthusiasts, the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse is accessible via a private track, making Ellenborough Park a dream destination during racing season.

Ellenborough Park is easily reached in under 2.5 hours by car from London, or via train from Paddington to Cheltenham Spa, followed by a short taxi ride.

How to Book:

  • Room rates are available on a B&B basis.

  • The Japanese Head Spa can be reserved via the hotel’s official website.

  • Guests may also book special events such as the Sunday Sound Bath Workshop (19th October) or the Align & Unwind Autumn Retreat (26th October), both with optional overnight wellness packages.

  • For more details: ellenboroughpark.com.

Mai Restaurant & Bar Unveils Sustainable New Menu at Meliá Chiang Mai

Mai Restaurant & Bar Unveils Sustainable New Menu at Meliá Chiang Mai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 29, 2025

Mai Restaurant & Bar, the signature dining venue at Meliá Chiang Mai, has launched a new menu that blends sustainability with culinary creativity. Situated on the hotel’s 21st floor, the restaurant offers contemporary Northern Thai cuisine with Mediterranean influences, complemented by sweeping views of Chiang Mai city and the iconic Doi Suthep Temple.

As part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s 360° Cuisine concept, executive chef Suksant Chutinthratip (Billy) and sous chef Karn Phojun have designed dishes that prioritize sustainability and local partnerships. The menu sources fresh ingredients from ethical, chemical-free suppliers such as Rong Khum organic farm in San Pa Tong and SEED in San Sai. In line with the hotel’s commitment to reducing food waste, the chefs use as much of every ingredient as possible, with leftovers returned to farms as compost and used cooking oil recycled into biodiesel.

image

 

The new menu features six appetizers, including Hoi Shell Samunprai with seared scallops, chili drops, and turmeric chips, and Khao Soi Salad with farm-fresh produce, khao soi dressing, and cage-free eggs. Guests can also choose from three soups, three rice and noodle dishes, and nine main courses. Highlights include the Cheeva Pork Chop with locally raised pork, Neau Yang Nam Prik Kha with Thai-Angus rib eye and San Pa Tong rice, and Kua Haam Gai Benja chicken roulade with sai oua stuffing. Seafood and vegetarian options such as Kanom Jeen Nam Prik Goong Pao (tiger prawns with curry sauce) and Yum Makeua Yao (grilled eggplant with chili-soy dressing) further showcase the diversity of flavors.

image

For dessert, the menu introduces four sweet creations, including Lum Yai Pudding, made with organic longan, butterscotch sauce, and coconut ice cream. The dish is part of the Organic Longan Project, a collaboration between Chiang Mai Green Kitchen partner restaurants and Rong Khun farm’s Farm Lab. The lab develops sustainable farming methods, including biochar application and microbial treatments, and serves as a hub for climate-friendly agriculture.

image

With only 38 seats, Mai Restaurant & Bar is both intimate and visually striking. Its design pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage, from temple-inspired arches to umbrella-themed installations referencing the city’s famous Bo Sang Umbrella Village. Positioned just below MAI The Sky Bar, Chiang Mai’s highest rooftop bar, the venue offers guests a refined dining experience that combines sustainability, culture, and culinary artistry.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.