TRAVEL NEWS OF THE WEEK: 6 UPDATES FROM HOTELS AROUND THE WORLD
In Travel News of the Week, we explore new and exciting developments in luxury destinations, dining innovations, and wellness retreats that are making waves across the globe.

From Michelin-worthy tapas in Bangkok to rejuvenating wellness treatments in the Maldives and the return of a legendary jazz band in Cambodia, there’s a lot to catch up on. Here are the lastest Travel News of the Week.

INNSiDE Hotel in Bangkok Awarded for Spanish Culinary Excellence/ Travel News of the Week
Bangkok’s Sky-high LUZ Tapas Bar at the INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit has recently earned the prestigious “Restaurants From Spain” certification, making waves in the Thai culinary scene. This certification, awarded by Spain’s Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), recognizes establishments worldwide that promote authentic Spanish cuisine using quality ingredients from Spain.

LUZ offers a captivating tapas experience with views from the 33rd and 34th floors, and its menu, led by Madrid-born Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero, brings a unique Spanish twist to Bangkok. With dishes like ‘Gilda de Pulpo’ (grilled octopus) and ‘Carrilleras de Cerdo Iberico’ (braised Iberian pork cheek), diners are transported to Spain without leaving Thailand. Since opening in September 2023, LUZ has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Spanish dining experience. The hotel continues to highlight Meliá’s dedication to bringing diverse global cuisines to the heart of the city.

Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Cave Cay to Open in 2029/ Travel News of the Week
Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts is expanding its luxury offerings with the announcement of the Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Cave Cay, scheduled to open in 2029 in the Bahamas. Set on a 220-acre private island in the Exumas, this new property promises to deliver unparalleled luxury, featuring 64 luxury suites, 48 private Bvlgari Mansions, and a wide range of high-end amenities. Guests can expect world-class dining, including the iconic Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, an extensive wellness center, and a full-service marina. The resort’s secluded location will provide an exclusive retreat with stunning views of crystal-clear waters, making it a prime destination for those seeking a luxurious and private getaway. This addition to the Bvlgari portfolio marks an exciting new chapter in the brand’s global expansion.

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives Introduces Year-Round Wellness Offerings/ Travel News of the Week
For those looking to rejuvenate in 2025, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives is introducing an array of new wellness programs designed to nurture both the body and mind. Guests can indulge in a variety of signature treatments at the resort’s Meera Spa, such as the Chi Nei Tsang, an ancient Taoist abdominal massage aimed at detoxifying and releasing emotional tension. Additionally, the resort offers a selection of yoga and meditation experiences, including sunrise sessions in a serene jungle oasis.


For food enthusiasts, Executive Chef Hari has curated a plant-based menu that features nourishing dishes like the “Exotic Superfood Bowl” and the “Roasted Veggies” dish. A standout experience is the exclusive “Plant-to-Plate” tasting menu, where guests enjoy multi-course meals crafted from ingredients sourced from the resort’s garden. The Gili Lankanfushi Maldives sets the bar high for wellness retreats, combining luxurious spa experiences with sustainability.

The Hari Hong Kong Launches Interactive Audio Tour/ Travel News of the Week
In Hong Kong, The Hari Hotel has launched an innovative “Live Like a Local” experience with its new audio walking guide. The app invites guests to explore Wan Chai, one of the city’s oldest and most diverse districts, through an interactive tour. The guide highlights hidden gems, from a creative hub housed in a 1960s tenement block to a unique sampan dining experience on Victoria Harbour.

The audio tour also features narration by the hotel’s founder, Dr. Aron Harilela, offering a personal touch that delves into the district’s rich cultural heritage. Guests can immerse themselves in local traditions, landmarks, and vibrant eateries that they might otherwise miss, all while staying at The Hari Hong Kong. The hotel’s commitment to art and culture is also reflected in its rotating art exhibitions, offering a culturally enriching stay in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh Welcomes Biggles Big Band/ Travel News of the Week
In Cambodia, Raffles Hotel Le Royal is gearing up for another unforgettable evening of jazz, welcoming back the Biggles Big Band on February 22, 2025. The 25-piece orchestra, known for its performances of swing-era classics by legends like Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington, will perform at the hotel’s elegant Royal Ballroom.

With a set dinner, unlimited complimentary wines and beers, and an evening of timeless jazz, this one-night-only concert is set to be a hit. The Biggles Big Band, which received rave reviews after their debut performance at Raffles last year, continues to bring the sounds of the golden age of jazz to Phnom Penh. Tickets are priced at $65, inclusive of the set dinner, and the evening promises to be an unforgettable experience for both music lovers and guests of the hotel.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts Offers Exclusive Double Perks Promotion/ Travel News of the Week
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is kicking off the new year with a special promotion that offers double perks for direct bookings across its global properties. Guests can enjoy up to 30% off their stays and receive two complimentary perks such as a spa credit, room upgrade, or early check-in, among other options. This offer is available until March 31, 2025, for stays through June 30, 2025. The promotion includes stays at some of the brand’s newest and most popular properties, including the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok, the renovated Dusit Princess Chiang Mai, and the brand’s first hotel in Malaysia, Dusit Princess Melaka. For Dusit Gold members, there’s an additional 15% off, making it the perfect opportunity to book a luxurious getaway at a great price.
These are just a few of the exciting developments happening in the world of travel this week. Whether you’re planning to indulge in world-class cuisine in Bangkok, unwind in the Maldives, explore Hong Kong’s vibrant neighborhoods, or enjoy a luxurious stay with exclusive perks, there’s something for every traveler looking to make 2025 an unforgettable year.
Leave a Reply