Travel News of the Week: FROM ZAMBIA TO MALDIVES
Here is our selection of the best Travel News of the Week. Each of these unique travel experiences showcases a distinctive blend of luxury, culture, and innovative dining, making them ideal for travelers eager to explore the best in holiday hospitality. Whether immersing in the winter festivities of New York, dining in historic Siem Reap, or welcoming the new year under the Maldivian stars, these destinations offer rich experiences to remember.
Travel News of the Week: Anantara Triumphs at ULTRAs Awards,
Anantara Hotels & Resorts shone at the prestigious 18th edition of the Ultimate Luxury Travel Related Awards (ULTRAs), held at Kensington Palace’s State Apartments and The Orangery in London. This year, the ULTRAs brought together luxury travel’s top brands to celebrate excellence, as voted by the 28 million members of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.
Anantara’s remarkable win included two high-profile awards. The brand took home the title of “Best Hotel Brand of the Last 20 Years,” while The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara won “Best Hotel in Africa and the Indian Ocean.” Anantara, part of Minor Hotels, continues to set standards for modern luxury, delivering unique and culturally immersive experiences across its worldwide properties.
Organized by Ultratravel, the ULTRAs remains one of the luxury travel industry’s most anticipated annual events, spotlighting the best of global hospitality and strengthening ties within the travel community. The event also showcases the power of GHA DISCOVERY, one of the world’s leading hotel loyalty programmes, through a partnership with the Global Hotel Alliance.
Travel News of the Week: Cafe d’Angkor at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Debuts New Menu
In the heart of Siem Reap, Cambodia, the historic Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has launched a fresh menu at its beloved Cafe d’Angkor. Executive Sous Chef Dorn Doeurt has crafted a seasonal menu that champions locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, blending Western and pan-Asian cuisine. Highlights include the Brie de Kampot En Croûte with pineapple compote, French Duck Breast with Battambang orange sauce, and Banteay Srey Profiteroles with vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce.
The revamped menu debuted at an exclusive wine dinner event in partnership with Yalumba, Australia’s oldest family-owned winery. Known for its vibrant dining atmosphere, Cafe d’Angkor offers alfresco seating overlooking the pool and a bright indoor space. The restaurant also provides take-away picnic baskets for guests seeking an immersive Angkor experience.
As one of Cambodia’s premier hotels and frequently recognized in Travel + Leisure’s “500 Best Hotels” list, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to enchant visitors with its commitment to sustainability and luxury. The hotel’s legacy dates back to 1932, serving as a rest stop for early explorers of Angkor Wat, now one of the world’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Travel News of the Week: New York City’s Magical Holiday Season
New York City’s winter season is a festive spectacle, offering endless excitement for holiday travelers. Kicking off with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28, millions of onlookers gather to witness giant balloons, dazzling floats, and performances from hit musicals like Hell’s Kitchen and The Outsiders.
Visitors can also enjoy the city’s legendary Christmas window displays, with iconic stores like Macy’s, Tiffany & Co., and Barney’s transforming their windows into holiday works of art. For those in the mood for theater, The Great Gatsbydelivers Roaring Twenties glamour in the Theatre District, while the New York City Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker offers an enchanting evening uptown. This holiday season, New York transforms into a true winter wonderland, combining traditional cheer with modern entertainment.
Travel News of the Week: Celebrate New Year at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort
For a New Year’s Eve like no other, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort presents an unforgettable celebration where adventure meets natural beauty. Guests can begin their night with a magical Fluo Night Snorkelling experience, gliding through glowing, blue-lit waters to encounter vibrant marine life. Following the moonlit snorkeling, a Bioluminescent New Year Gala awaits, featuring a lavish dinner, live performances, and cosmic selfies with neon lighting. The evening climaxes in a spectacular fireworks show over the Indian Ocean, providing a breathtaking start to the new year.
Stays at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort start at USD 600 per night for two adults, including breakfast and fees. For bookings, visit Avani Fares Maldives.
Travel News of the Week: Introducing Britannic Explorer by Belmond
Luxury travel brand Belmond announces the launch of the Britannic Explorer, a new sleeper train that brings a touch of sophistication to the rail journeys through England and Wales. Departing from London in July 2025, the train offers three-night excursions to some of Britain’s most scenic destinations, including Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.
Passengers can expect a memorable journey that combines the charm of traditional rail with modern British cuisine, crafted by acclaimed Chef Simon Rogan. The Britannic Explorer’s elegant Observation Car serves as a botanical-inspired social hub where guests can relax over cocktails, while an onboard wellness suite offers treatments to revive weary travelers. Each journey includes curated off-train excursions, allowing passengers to delve into the culture and history of each location.
Travel News of the Week: Banyan Tree Koh Samui’s Christmas Dining Extravaganza
In Koh Samui, Thailand, Banyan Tree is hosting a Christmas feast for guests looking to celebrate in paradise. From December 24 to 26, the resort’s beachfront restaurant, Sands, will offer a 3-course lunch and a choice between a 5-course set dinner or a 7-course vegetarian feast. Saffron, the resort’s fine-dining restaurant, will host intimate evening dinners, while The Edge offers an extensive buffet blending Eastern and Western flavors. Each dining experience promises a delightful and memorable Christmas celebration in a tropical setting.
For more information or reservations, contact Banyan Tree Samui.
Travel News of the Week: Dusit Hotels’ “Make Time to Travel” Campaign
Dusit Hotels and Resorts has launched an enticing offer for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. The “Make Time to Travel” campaign provides up to USD 200 in hotel credits for guests staying two or more nights at participating properties worldwide. This promotion, available for bookings until December 15, invites guests to immerse themselves in Dusit’s unique destinations, from beachside retreats to urban escapes.
The offer includes stays at Dusit’s flagship property, Dusit Thani Bangkok, which has reopened with stunning views over Lumpini Park. Guests enrolled in the Dusit Gold loyalty program will enjoy additional benefits, such as discounted dining, complimentary room upgrades, and late check-out.
For bookings, visit Dusit Hotels.
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