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    Escape to paradise: Unveiling the luxury of TRS Ibiza Hotel

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    Dreaming of an adults-only (Over 16 years old) getaway bathed in the Mediterranean sun? Look no further than TRS Ibiza Hotel, a haven of 5-star luxury nestled on the seafront of San Antonio Bay, Ibiza.

    This magnificent resort caters to those seeking an unforgettable experience, offering two distinct options to craft your dream vacation.
    Bespoke Indulgence: Choose Your Adventure
    Bed and Breakfast: For those who crave a luxurious base to explore Ibiza’s vibrant culture and delectable cuisine,the bed and breakfast option provides the perfect foundation.

    Infinite Indulgence: Embrace the all-inclusive experience and let go of your worries. The “Infinite Indulgence” philosophy pampers you with unlimited access to gourmet meals, refreshing beverages, and exceptional services.
    The Signature Level: Where Exclusivity Reigns Supreme
    For the ultimate in luxury, elevate your stay with The Signature Level. This exclusive upgrade unlocks a world of unparalleled experiences:
    Personalized Butler Service: Let your dedicated butler cater to your every whim, ensuring a seamless and stress-free vacation.
    Culinary Delights: Embark on a gastronomic journey thanks to the “DINE OUT Programme”, which offers The Signature Level Guests the possibility to taste some of the best and exclusive restaurants on the island.

    Spa Sanctuary: Indulge in the hotel’s hydrotherapy circuit (one access per stay complimentary for Signature Level guests) and rejuvenate your mind and body.
    Events Paradise: Your booking with this upgrade includes at least one free ticket per guest to an event at one of the following venues: Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel, Hï Ibiza or Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza.
    Unwinding in Paradise: A Day at TRS Ibiza
    TRS Ibiza is your sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here’s a glimpse into a perfect day at this idyllic haven:
    Fitness and Fun: Maintain your fitness routine at the modern gym or participate in invigorating daily classes like yoga, Zumba, and pilates.
    Sunset Soirees: As the day draws to a close, ascend to the Gravity sky bar and savor a signature cocktail while basking in the mesmerizing hues of the Ibiza sunset, accompanied by captivating live music.
    TRS Ibiza Hotel promises an unforgettable escape, meticulously crafted to cater to your every desire. So, pack your bags,embrace the luxury, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Ibiza.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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    Elevating the wedding experience: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi

    Lifeby Team Emirates Woman37 mins ago IN PARTNERSHIP: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is an emblem of refined luxury, offering couples an unparalleled setting for their quintessential wedding celebration.Situated along the prestigious Corniche, this hotel beckons with promises of timeless elegance and bespoke experiences that transcend the ordinary.At the heart of the St. Regis Abu Dhabi lies the majestic Al Mudhaif ballroom, a veritable sanctuary of grandeur spanning 1,300 square meters. Here, amidst soaring ceilings and Bohemian crystal chandeliers, couples are invited to craft their fairy tale wedding, tailored to their every desire. Whether envisioned as an intimate affair or a grand gala, the ballroom’s versatility allows for seamless customization, ensuring that each celebration is as unique as the love it commemorates.From the curated culinary delights crafted by expert chefs to the meticulous attention to detail in presentation, every aspect of the wedding experience is orchestrated with precision and flair.As the bride prepares to embark on her journey down the aisle, a personalized bridal suite awaits, complete with a dedicated female butler to attend to her every need. Meanwhile, the couple is offered a sanctuary of luxury in one of the hotel’s prestigious suites, where the renowned St. Regis Butler Service ensures that their every whim is catered to with effortless grace.Yet, the St. Regis Abu Dhabi experience extends far beyond the confines of the wedding day itself. Couples are invited to extend their celebration into the realms of culinary excellence, with a complimentary anniversary dining experience at one of the hotel’s signature venues, promising yet another cherished memory in the tapestry of their love story.What truly sets The St. Regis Abu Dhabi apart is the fusion of authentic Arabian hospitality with over a century of St. Regis traditions.Every moment is crafted with care and every celebration is an ode to love, luxury, and the art of living well.To know more about the property, visit www.stregisabudhabi.com – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    An editor-approved Jaipur guide: From majestic stays to magical heritage sites

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    Jaipur holds an abundance of colour, beauty, and history. From majestic stays to magical heritage sites, revel in the sights and sounds of the charming pink city.
    Scroll through the gallery for an editor-approved travel guide to Jaipur.
    THE STAYS
    VILLA PALLADIO JAIPUR

    Decked in varied hues of red, Villa Palladio Jaipur is a striking structure that marries rococo exuberance with the decadence of the maharajas in a uniquely joyful style, both equally at home in Italy as it is in India. Its painted verandas and scalloped arches open onto lush Mughal gardens of red roses, strict geometries and central water fountains. Canopied beds, embroidered bedsheets, inlaid marble floors and hand-carved marble latticed screens in the nine uniquely decorated rooms and suites further enhance the sense of exquisite craftsmanship (the entirety of VP furnishing was fabricated bespoke in Jaipur). Hidden behind hedges of blossoming hibiscus is a Mughal arched pool house accented with candy striped sunbeds.
    Wellness amenities include a spa offering purifying, nourishing and grounding rituals, a garden-side meditation and yoga room alongside a scarlet library, a boutique stocking holiday essentials and designer threads, as well as a stable of six Marwari horses. From breakfast served on the delicately painted floral balcony, snacks served in the striped Pool House to a lavish lunch and dinner at the charming Garden Verandah overlooking landscaped gardens, dining at Villa Palladio is a feast for the senses. The menu, perfected over several months by the Italian-Swiss owner Barbara Miolini, champions the robust flavors of southern Italy and, of course, a selection of subtly spiced Rajasthani classics.
    For reservations, visit villa-palladio-jaipur.com
    THE JOHRI

    A 19th-century home restoration in the midst of Old Town Jaipur that captures the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travellers. Nestled in the heart of Jaipur’s iconic jewellers’ bazaar, The Johri tastefully masters old-world charm featuring a well-curated mix of antique furnitures, textiles and art – a haven of relaxed splendour for design and culture enthusiasts. It houses five spacious suites overlooking a traditional charming inner courtyard named after precious gemstones: Manek, Neelam, Sona, Panna and Moti.
    For reservations, visit thejohrijaipur.com
    TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE

    If only the Rambagh Palace’s old walls could talk, it would tell stories from its royal past. From 1835 until today, it continues to play the role of a gracious host to prominent figures and illustrious guests. Through the years, the palace has retained its splendour, extravagantly decorated with elaborate detailings and lattice-work, sandstone balustrades, cuplos and cenotaphs.
    For reservations, visit tajhotels.com
    LEELA PALACE JAIPUR

    Located in a peaceful area away from the buzz of the city, The Leela Palace Jaipur wows with true Indian luxury. Can’t-miss quintessential experiences include Rajasthani folk dances, expeditions to the elephant village, holistic spa treatments, cycle tours of the sprawling garden and more.
    For reservations, visit theleela.com
    ANOPURA

    Backdropped by the Aravalli mountains, Anopura is a charming stay in Jaipur’s countryside. Nestled in an estate garden and flowering meadows, the property is surrounded with pomegranate and frangipani trees perfect for a slower pace for your holiday. Its serene minimalist interiors takes on modern Jaipur influences, while the corners of Anopura are individually decked with antiques, art and fabrics sourced across Rajasthan.
    For reservations, visit anopura.com
    THE SIGHTS & SPOTS
    A visit to Jaipur is not complete without stepping foot inside majestic historic landmarks such as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-story extraordinary architectural marvel with a beguiling facade, and The City Palace.

    Built in the 17th Century, The City Palace located in Old Jaipur is home to smaller structures like the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

    Within The City Palace Museum lies Baradari where royal history meets fine dining – a culinary destination serving contemporary dishes with local flavours.
    Photo: Henry Wilson
    For smaller bites and sips, Bar Palladio is a cool hangout spot located with Narain Niwas Palace Hotel that serves Italian cuisine and beverages. The restaurant and lounge, designed by Dutch designer Marie-Anne Oudejans, is a maximalist wonderland with wandering peacocks and lush gardens.
    Amrapali Museum is home to rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, decorative crafts and exquisite jewellery. Founded in the 80s by Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera, the displays pay homage to India’s insurmountable craftsmanship that have shaped India’s jewellery narrative.

    For those looking to bring home a piece of Jaipur, Parampara is a multi-brand concept store with a made-in-India verve – a shopping haven with a kaleidoscopic of local threads with an international flair.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    How One&Only One Za’abeel brings urban energy and experiences to the city

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    This dual-tower vertical resort masterpiece, a collaboration between acclaimed architects and luxury hospitality leader Kerzner International, stands gleamingly tall at the crossroads of DIFC, World Trade Centre and Downtown Dubai.
    A breathtaking addition to the ever-evolving Dubai skyline, One&Only One Za’abeel’s towering presence sets a spectacular stage for exceptional experiences.

    THE STAY
    Masterminded by Jean-Michel Gathy, the interior touches draw inspiration from the desert landscape, creating a thoughtfully curated ambiance and overall, a cohesive and immersive experience. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a seamless display of artistry that blends culture and creativity – from the mesmerising geometric masterpiece by American artist Steven Naifeh to an eclectic array of international and regional works.

    One&Only One Za’abeel offers a collection of immaculately designed rooms and suites as well as curated corner suites for business, wellness, and creative pursuits, with exceptional privileges and amenities for discerning travellers amidst the bustling cityscape. The Villa One is a re-imagined signature villa taken to lofty new heights. The 755 square-meter expanse includes two bedrooms, a majlis, an outdoor infinity pool, cinema, gym, and comes with exclusive benefits such as a dedicated host, in-villa personal trainers, spa treatments and private chef access.

    THE DINING
    Dramatically perched between the two towers, The Link is a futuristic boulevard floating 100 metres above the city. The world’s longest cantilever building, this culinary haven gathers immersive gastronomic experiences and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, in one architectural marvel. Expect Michelin-starred French cuisine at La Dame De Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic, contemporary Moorish delights at Qabu by Paco Morales, refined modern Japanese fare at Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda, and more.

    THE WELLNESS
    The first of its kind in Dubai, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is where wellness takes centre stage. Dedicated to unlocking longevity and lasting vitality, the pioneering treatments combine the latest in transformative health science, cutting-edge aesthetics, and tailored wellness solutions. This three-storey advanced wellness space combines evidence-based medicine and pioneering aesthetics to deliver ultra-personalised wellness solutions to address the daily stressors of urban living.

    Spread over three floors, The Hub comprises of 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies; a Movement Studio with state-of-the-art gym facilities; a Longevity Bar; and the region’s first Longevity Index Lounge, which boasts cutting-edge solutions including the Neuro Wave Stimulation – a tech-guided acoustic and vibrational therapy that enables even the busiest of minds to enter a deep state of relaxation.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Images: Supplied More

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    6 short-haul Eid getaways rooted in design and culture to book right now

    Life by Camille Macawili 5 mins ago Planning for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays? From a remote desert destination in Qatar to a charming stay in Lake Como, Emirates Woman selects the latest and sweetest short-haul getaways to book right now for Eid Al Fitr. BROADWICK SOHO – LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM Located in the heart of London’s West End, Broadwick Soho is as charming and characterful as its storied neighbourhood. Channeling the glamour and wild energy of London’s most vibrant area into a contemporary 57-room retreat, Broadwick Soho exhibits great style and character with its flamboyant décor: a mix of English eccentricity and with a sprinkle of Disco fabulousness. For reservations, visit broadwicksoho.com PASSALACQUA – LAKE COMO, ITALY Images: Supplied; Stefan Giftthaler A stay at Passalacqua offers a much-needed antidote to time-crunched vacations. Embrace the Italian art of dolce far niente at this 5-star hotel on Lake Como for a dash of dolce vita, whether its yoga beneath the magnolias, a stroll through Moltrasio’s ancient lanes, learning how to make pasta or perhaps skimming across the lake in a vintage motor launch. For reservations, visit passalacqua.it HÔTEL DES GRAND VOYAGEURS – PARIS, FRANCE Hôtel des Grand Voyageurs is a sleek haven for art, design, and culture enthusiasts. The interiors, a mix of contemporary flair with the nobi- lity of old-world Europe, are curated by Milanese architect and designer Fabrizio Casiraghi. Sharp by day and sultry by night, each aesthetic space – from the 138 rooms down to the American-French brasserie – delivers a fresh yet charismatic ambience on Quarter Saint-Placide. For reservations, visit hoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.com ÀNI – DIKWELLA, SRI LANKA A four-hour flight from the UAE and a two-hour drive from Colombo will take you to the southern coast of Sri Lanka where you’ll be embraced by a verdant jungle and endless views of the sea. ÀNI is a luxury beachfront estate with a tropical modernism-inspired decor that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and an all-inclusive crafted stay. For reservations, visit aniprivateresorts.com ROOMS – BATUMI, GEORGIA Batumi is the capital of the autonomous Adjara region – both a port town and a holiday destination. With its outsized glass towers and leafy old streets, Adjara has its own Turkish-inflected dialect, distinct cuisine, lush rainforests, ancient Roman ruins and beaches for miles – definitely far from the brutalist Tbilisi that you know. ROOMS Batumi reflects this environment, drawing inspiration from a mix of Japanese, European, and LA styles. This design-led property delivers a fresh coastal twist mixed with 70s flair and hints of Japanese influence. For reservations, visit roomshotels.com OUR HABITAS RAS ABROUQ – RAS ABROUQ, QATAR Following the debut of an award-winning hotel in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, is Our Habitas Ras Abrouq. Located in an untouched region on Qatar’s west coast and bordering a UNESCO protected site, Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, this new property is a soulful space to enjoy nature’s beauty, with a dramatic coastal and desert backdrop to boot. From wellness programmes to locally sourced nourishing meals at Qissa, you won’t have to venture far for this one-of-a-kind travel experience you can explore this Eid. For reservations, visit ourhabitas.com – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram March’s – The Authenticity Issue with Mouawad – Download Now More

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    How I got my job as…General Manager of Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businessmen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Burcak Orak, General Manager of Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island.
    Burcak’s three decades of leadership in the hospitality industry, showcased by his dedication to Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, reflect a commitment to excellence. His exceptional leadership, training, and talent recognition have solidified his position as a respected figure in the industry. Here, we talk to him about his extensive expertise across hospitality departments and his vision for the future.

    Can you share some insights into your leadership style and how it has contributed to the success of these properties you’ve worked at?
    In my role as a General Manager, I place a strong emphasis on a combination of strategic vision, team collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences. In the luxury hospitality industry, attention to detail is paramount. I am meticulous in ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence. At Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, we strive to create an immersive and unforgettable experience, where every interaction, every nuance, contributes to the creation of lasting memories for our guests.
    Club Privé by Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island has been described as a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Could you elaborate on the strategic vision behind its launch and how it has impacted the overall performance of the property?
    Elevating luxury to unprecedented heights, our Club Privé villas redefine opulence by seamlessly blending ultimate relaxation. Club Prive villas combine the ultimate relaxation and privacy with the All-Inclusive All-Exclusive way. Club Privé butlers are on hand from day until night to guarantee high-end comfort and timeless elegance throughout your stay. Our guests can enjoy Club House restaurant, where we extend the luxury of 24-hour access for casual fine dining with our menu offering an exquisite array of culinary treasures crafted to perfection. Our commitment to the “Next level of luxury” is not just a phrase; it’s a promise.

    Your expertise spans various key hospitality departments. How do you leverage this extensive knowledge in your role as a General Manager, especially in terms of pre-opening hotel setups and post-opening strategizing?
    My diverse expertise across crucial hospitality departments significantly influences my approach to both pre-opening hotel setups and post-opening strategising. In the pre-opening phase, I leverage my extensive knowledge to meticulously plan and execute the integration of various departments. This involves developing streamlined workflows, implementing comprehensive training programs, and establishing effective communication channels to guarantee a smooth operational launch. Our limitless concept allows guests to discover a new sense of freedom and a world of possibilities through our premium product and service offerings, including award-winning international cuisines, stylish scenic accommodations, revolutionary entertainment, immersive spa experiences, fun-packed activities for all ages, and an Exclusive Sports Club.
    Can you share some specific steps you’ve taken to promote responsible consumption, reduce single-use plastic, and engage in socially responsible investments within the hospitality sector?
    Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island has achieved the prestigious GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) Sustainability Certification, underscoring our steadfast dedication to sustainability and establishing us as trailblazers in the region. Additionally, we have been accepted and approved by the Blue Flag International Jury. The ‘Blue Flag’ is a certification that can be obtained by a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator, and serves as an eco-label. We have taken significant strides towards eliminating guest-facing single-use plastics. Furthermore, we are actively engaged in forming partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the region to fortify our commitment to sustainability. In addition, we are diligently calculating and addressing our carbon footprint through comprehensive CO2 emission assessments.
    The strategic vision and business acumen you bring to the table have significantly contributed to the success of the hotels. How do you stay ahead of hospitality trends and develop innovative pricing and distribution strategies to maximize profits?
    In order to consistently lead in the dynamic landscape of the industry, I employ a proactive strategy that encompasses ongoing research, collaborative initiatives, and a vigilant awareness of emerging market trends.
    The hospitality landscape is dynamic. How do you adapt to changing market trends and ensure that your properties remain a preferred choice among travelers?
    Our commitment to remain the preferred choice among travelers in the face of changing market trends is grounded in a dynamic and guest-centric approach. Keeping up-to-date to industry reports, scrutinizing customer feedback, and closely monitoring emerging trends in travel, technology, and consumer behavior are pivotal elements for achieving success and effectively adapting to changes in the dynamic landscape of the luxury hotel industry.

    What piece of advice would you give to individuals wanting to join the hospitality business?
    Respect for the Environment and People; Understanding the impact of your actions on the environment and nature that you are living in and treating everyone with respect is crucial. Prioritize Family and Health; Maintaining a healthy work-life balance and prioritizing family and health. Self-Respect; Recognizing the value of self-respect is a powerful reminder to maintain personal integrity and uphold ethical standards in your professional life. Career Choice and Job Satisfaction; If you find yourself in an environment that doesn’t contribute to your happiness, change it. Invest in Education and Self-Improvement; Commit to ongoing personal and professional growth by investing in education and continuous self-improvement, fostering a path to enhanced skills, knowledge, and long-term career success. Financial Planning; Allocate a strategic 25% of your income towards creating passive revenue streams, cultivating a foundation for financial stability and long-term wealth accumulation.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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    Managing Director at Raffles The Palm on the ever-evolving hospitality industry in Dubai

    Nestled gracefully on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Raffles The Palm Dubai emerges as a haven of luxury, seamlessly blending modern opulence with the timeless charm of Arabian hospitality.
    The resort’s architecture is a spectacle in itself, offering stunning views of both the Arabian Gulf and the dynamic Dubai skyline. Each meticulously designed room and suite is a testament to the fusion of contemporary aesthetics and traditional Arabian influences, providing guests with a truly immersive experience.
    In a deatiled conversation, Ayman Gharib, Managing Director at Raffles The Palm Dubai, Area General Manager at Raffles Seychelles and Raffles Bahrain, talks to Emirates Man about the luxury property’s rebranding in 2021, it’s position in the Dubai hospitality scene and what’s the plan for future when it comes to eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism.
    Can you share insights into your nearly three-decade journey in luxury hospitality, particularly your significant roles at Raffles?
    Throughout my career, I had the privilege of contributing to the dynamic and complex landscape of luxury hospitality in various prominent roles. I joined Raffles in 2009, initially leading Food & Beverage operations at Raffles Dubai. Here, I learned the intricacies of delivering memorable experiences to guests, allowing me to understand the essence of hospitality and setting the tone for my career growth. By 2011, I was given the chance to prove myself as Hotel Manager, a significant milestone in my career. As my career progressed, I took on roles of increasing responsibility, and the journey reached new heights with my appointment as General Manager at Raffles Dubai in 2014. Subsequently, in 2017, I undertook the challenge of the pre-opening phase of Sofitel Obelisk, earning the title of Managing Director. These experiences allowed me to navigate the complexity of the industry and enriched my expertise in delivering impeccable experiences to a discerning audience. I have been fortunate to witness the evolution of the hospitality industry, adapting to increasingly sophisticated and knowledgeable travellers and evolving global trends. Throughout my time at Raffles, I have endeavoured to embody leadership, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence, contributing to the success of every project I led. I aspire to create a legacy of excellence at Raffles and the luxury hospitality sector.
    How did your leadership style contribute to your rise from Food & Beverage operations to the position of Managing Director at Raffles The Palm Dubai?
    In the early stages of my career in Food and Beverage, I focused on cultivating collaboration, empowerment and commitment to excellence. A strong team is the backbone of a successful hospitality establishment, and leading with adaptability and a genuine focus on people, I attained positive outcomes during my tenure in Food and Beverage. As I transitioned into broader leadership roles, I maintained an inclusive and strategic leadership style, aligning departmental goals with business objectives. Upon becoming Managing Director at Raffles The Palm Dubai, my leadership style evolved to encompass a holistic view of hospitality operations. I implemented strategic initiatives to uphold the brand’s commitment to luxury and exceptional service. In this role, cultivating a collaborative and positive culture and making strategic financial decisions were key factors in contributing to the property’s success.

    As the Managing Director of Raffles The Palm Dubai, what strategies did you employ for the property’s rebranding and repositioning in 2021?
    As Managing Director at Raffles The Palm Dubai, I navigated this exciting journey focusing on enhancing guest experiences. We implemented strategies to elevate the property’s profile, ensuring alignment with evolving consumer trends. We expanded accommodations, introduced gourmet F&B outlets to elevate the culinary offering, enhanced the menu of our luxurious spa, and implemented a robust sales and marketing strategy to enhance visibility and drive business. The goal? To transform the property into an iconic destination, and trust me, the results speak for themselves.

    With added responsibilities in 2023, overseeing Raffles Seychelles and the upcoming Raffles Bahrain, how do you plan to leverage your experience for the growth of these properties?
    Drawing from my multi-property management experience, I plan to contribute to their success on an international scale, reflecting my passion for leading diverse teams to excellence. Throughout my career journey, I obtained invaluable insights into the luxury hospitality sector and a wealth of experience that I am eager to channel into the growth of the properties. I aim to streamline processes, fostering efficiency and collaboration. In tandem with operational refinement, my vision includes the implementation of strategic plans tailored to each property’s unique strengths and the demands of their respective markets.
    Can you highlight key achievements and unique features of Raffles The Palm Dubai under your leadership, including the growth in accommodations, F&B outlets, spa, and event spaces?
    Since the grand opening, Raffles The Palm Dubai has seen quite the success. We secured a top spot on Trip Advisor, witnessed substantial profit growth, and raised the stakes with 387 luxury accommodations, seven top-notch F&B spots, a Club Lounge, a luxurious spa, and vast event spaces. It’s all about upholding the utmost standards of quality and service, ensuring an experience that stands the test of time. The impeccable service provided at Raffles The Palm Dubai is widely recognized and appreciated by our discerning guests, and in 2023, we were voted as the 2nd Best Resort in the region according to Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
    What challenges did you face during the various phases of your career, and how did you overcome them to achieve your current leadership position?
    In the early stages of my career, navigating the dynamic hospitality landscape was a significant challenge. As travellers increasingly seek unique experiences, ensuring our offerings meet elevated expectations becomes crucial. This involved innovating services and amenities, crafting even more personalised experiences that resonate with individual preferences and create lasting memories. Managing multi-property operations presented unique complexities where balancing the diverse demands of different locations while maintaining consistent standards across properties required a nuanced and strategic approach. Hospitality is an ever-changing industry, so adopting a people-focused approach through building resilient teams, fostering adaptability, and maintaining clear communication was essential. With that in mind, staying attuned to industry trends and data, enables us to anticipate demand but also provides an insightful understanding of the contemporary consumer’s preferences. It’s a commitment to not only keeping pace with change but also being at the forefront, setting the standard for what discerning guests expect from an ultra-luxury hospitality experience. I believe that each challenge served as an opportunity for growth, contributing significantly to my journey and culminating in my current leadership position.

    In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, how do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies to enhance guest satisfaction?
    Staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies is crucial for enhancing guest satisfaction. I prioritise continuous learning by actively reading industry publications, attending relevant business trips, and participating in city events. Additionally, I foster a culture of innovation within my teams, encouraging them to share insights and ideas. Collaborating with travel experts and staying connected with other industry leaders helps me remain informed about emerging trends and advancements. This proactive approach ensures that our properties at Raffles are equipped with the latest technologies and trends, ultimately enhancing the overall guest experience. Moreover, recognising the importance of guest feedback on platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google, and others is integral to understanding modern consumers’ preferences. Analysing and incorporating this feedback provides valuable insights into guest expectations, allowing us to tailor our offerings and services to align with contemporary preferences. We are proud to have a multicultural team, and knowing that it is the foundation of understanding consumer behaviours, adds depth to the beauty of hospitality. The diverse perspectives within our team contribute to a nuanced understanding of cultural preferences, enabling us to create a more inclusive and personalised experience for our guests. This cultural richness is not just a facet of our team; it’s a fundamental element that enhances the warmth and authenticity of hospitality.
    With sustainability gaining importance, how does your hotel implement eco-friendly practices and contribute to responsible tourism?
    Since the hotel’s opening, we have kept sustainability practices at the core of our operational decisions. We are proud to be the first ultra-luxury hotel in the UAE to receive the ISO 14001:2015 certification for our Environmental Management System in 2021. Our commitment extends to water conservation through efficient landscaping and recycling, along with the elimination of single-use plastics from guest room amenities and access cards. We have even launched an in-house water bottling project. In our food and beverage outlets, we prioritise sustainability by sourcing local, seasonal ingredients, and supporting the ecosystem and local businesses while minimising our carbon footprint. Partnering with Neutral Fuel LLC to recycle used cooking oil into biofuel further underscores our dedication to eco-friendly practices. To round off the efforts, we recently formed a Sustainability Committee comprising our most dedicated colleagues. This collaborative effort aims to identify and implement innovative ideas to ensure continuous improvement in our environmentally friendly practices. These practices solidify our position as leaders in sustainable hospitality and champions of responsible tourism.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by @rafflespalmdubai More

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    The Berkeley: Elevate your stay in London by residing in this modern-classic property

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    The Berkeley hotel in London delivers top tier service with a modern cool. If you want location combined with a cool factor, this is it.
    The Stay

    Situated right in the beating heart of the city yet with the kind of peace that feels a world away from the fast pace of London’s inner city – The Berkeley is the ultimate if you’re looking for refined stay that delivers old school service with a modern eye for detail. With a selection of rooms and suites, The Berkeley flexes around your needs whether you’re on a swift business trip alone or booking in for the festive period with extended family. Cosy fireplaces make for the perfect detail to enjoy during winter andwith views of Hyde Park and Knightsbridgeyou’ll feel like this is your second home just a stone’s throw away from the best shopping in town and a five-minute walk from Harrods.
    The Dining

    The Collins Room is airy and feels cosy yet spacious making it the ideal location to dine whether you’re travelling alone of meeting friends. The chic interiors are designedby by Robert Angell and create the perfect backdrop for the super popular Prêtà- Portea. Also, not to be missed is Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley — With a string of accolades citing him as the best pastry chef in the world, Cédric Grolet – known for his trompe-l’oeil artistry, fruits and flowers – has opened the doors to his first patisserie outside of France, Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley in London. This is popular from morning until late afternoon – so schedule yourself an hour to indulge.
    The Wellness

    The Bamford Wellness Spa at The Berkeley delivers a sense of the Cotswolds within the confines of the city. You’ll feel a different pace of life wash over you as you indulge in a choice of refined, holistic treatments within the luxurious, ample sized rooms. The perfect predinner treats to have you feeling your best.
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    Images: Supplied More