The Francis Hotel in Bath to Undergo £13 Million Transformation

The Francis Hotel in Bath to Undergo £13 Million Transformation

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 23, 2024

The historic Francis Hotel in Bath is set to embark on a significant £13 million refurbishment project. This transformation aims to revitalize the beloved landmark, blending its rich Georgian heritage with modern amenities. Ahead of this major overhaul, the hotel will auction all its current furniture, fixtures, and fittings on July 3, 2024.

The Francis Hotel holds a prominent place in Bath’s architectural history. As one of the first Georgian buildings in the city, it was once home to the 18th-century architect John Wood the Elder, who inspired the design of Queen Square, the Royal Crescent, and The Circus. Over the years, the hotel has remained a key part of Bath’s historical landscape.

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The refurbishment, led by award-winning interior designers 3DReid, will honor the hotel’s Georgian roots while incorporating contemporary comforts. All 98 bedrooms and suites will be redesigned to reflect this blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. The ground floor and lobby will also undergo a complete reimagining, including the introduction of a cozy snug. This intimate space will be open to the public during the day and serve as a relaxing spot for hotel guests in the evening.

A highlight of the renovation is the introduction of a new destination restaurant, The Townhouse Brasserie. This restaurant will feature the finest British cuisine, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients cooked over an open hearth. The Townhouse Brasserie aims to provide a chic dining experience with a touch of timeless creativity, offering a sophisticated wine list and a memorable ambiance.

Towards the end of the refurbishment program, the hotel will unveil a brand new thermal spa and three treatment rooms. This addition is part of Bath’s broader ambition to become the UK’s leading city for wellness, providing guests with a luxurious and relaxing experience.

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In preparation for the renovation, Pro Auction, specialist hospitality auctioneers, will handle the sale of the hotel's current furnishings. Items up for auction include four-poster beds, writing tables, seating, lamps, drapes, and artwork. Simon Rose of Pro Auction notes that the variety of well-maintained items will appeal to both hotel operators and private buyers.

The auction will take place at The Francis Hotel on July 3, 2024, starting at 10:00 AM. A preview of the available lots can be arranged by appointment on July 2. Catalogs for the auction can be downloaded at https://shorturl.at/nU6GH.

About the Sutton Hotel Collection

The Francis Hotel is part of the Sutton Hotel Collection, which also includes The Castle Hotel in Windsor and The Queens Hotel in Cheltenham. These properties are located in some of England's most picturesque and historic areas, offering a unique blend of heritage and modern hospitality.

This significant refurbishment of The Francis Hotel marks an exciting new chapter for this iconic Bath landmark, promising to enhance its charm and appeal for future generations.


6 Serene Escapes to Reclaim Yourself This Global Wellness Day

6 Serene Escapes to Reclaim Yourself This Global Wellness Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2025

In a world that moves at breakneck speed, there is something quietly powerful about choosing stillness. This Global Wellness Day, step into spaces that allow you to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself. Here are six hand-picked wellness destinations where nature, culture, and calm converge to help you breathe deeper and be more present.

Thailand

At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, mornings begin with the sound of waves and end with crystal sound healing under open skies. The resort’s wellness journeys include ocean-facing meditation, Thai massages, and vitality pools. Dining at Sri Trang reflects the same care with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes rooted in traditional Thai techniques. Here, stillness feels as luxurious as the view.

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Ras Al Khaimah

At Camp 1770, perched 1,770 metres above sea level in the Jebel Jais Mountain range, wellness begins before sunrise. Sound healing and yoga unfold with the shifting sky as your backdrop. Down below, the Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island invites guests for yoga on the beach and spa rituals like the Desert Sand Reviver at Citrine Spa. Also worth exploring are the extensive wellness programmes at Anantara Mina Al Arab and nature-inspired yoga sessions at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert. 

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Kenya

Kenya offers a more grounded approach to wellness. At The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille in Laikipia, guided walks with Maasai hosts end with quiet reflection on cliffside decks. On the coast, Watamu Treehouse features treetop meditation and breathwork with views of the Indian Ocean. It’s wellness guided not by routines, but by rhythm of nature, wind, and waves.

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Qatar

The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island on The Pearl-Qatar introduces wellness as a lifestyle. At the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie, Swiss precision meets holistic science to deliver personalized therapies. Infinity pools, cabanas, and wellness-driven design make this island feel like a sanctuary that supports your wellbeing naturally and luxuriously. 

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Sri Lanka

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Camellia Hills offers views of Castlereagh Lake and tea-covered slopes—an ideal setting for quiet reflection. Near Colombo, The Wallawwa hosts Vikasa Wellness, a programme blending mindful movement, meditation, and ancient Sri Lankan sound healing rituals. These properties from Teardrop Hotels are curated for solo travellers and couples seeking a deeper, more personal retreat.

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Israel

Floating in the Dead Sea, you feel your shoulders drop and breath slow wellness in its purest form. In the Negev Desert, Desert Ashram provides unplugged weekends filled with movement and community. In Amirim, a plant-based moshav, boutique eco-stays host Kabbalah-based workshops and meditation, creating a gentle return to self.

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This June, pause intentionally. Choose stillness over speed. And let one of these places help you feel more like yourself again.


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.

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