Marriott International Caribbean properties – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 brands – are full of exciting news and programming this month, including property renovations and enhancements, sustainability programing, and innovative food and beverage experiences. From destinations including the Cayman Islands, Aruba, Curaçao, St. Thomas and Dominican Republic, travelers can enjoy all the Marriott International portfolio has to offer while also connecting with Marriott International's award-winning travel program and marketplace, Marriott Bonvoy.   CAYMAN ISLANDS   Grand Cayman Marriott Resort (Georgetown, Grand Cayman)   Grand Cayman Marriott Resort has embarked on an extensive renovation of room and suites. The comprehensive transformation is inspired by the eclectic atmosphere of the island, offering travelers the ultimate endless summer experience with an elevated and modernized design concept.   As part of the renovation project, the hotel will reposition its 15 junior suites by completely redesigning the space. New features include a partition to divide the bed and sitting areas for additional comfort and privacy. Four new spacious family guest rooms will feature custom bunk beds and a plethora of storage, setting these rooms apart from standard accommodations and making them perfect for families.   The waterfront property draws inspiration from its surroundings, blending beachy hues and organic textures with minimal lines and black metal accents to mimic the modern coastal essence of Grand Cayman. In addition to the suite renovations, the property will upgrade all the beds to true Kings and Queens with Sealy mattresses to provide an enhanced level of quality and comfort for a good night’s sleep.  Additional room furnishings and features include a 65-inch flatscreen tv, fiberoptic internet for increased connectivity, integrated lighting, upgraded surfaces, and flooring sure to enhance the warm welcome our property already provides.   Images here, courtesy of Grand Cayman Marriott.   The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman (Georgetown, Grand Cayman)   The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is pleased to announce the debut of the beautifully redesigned Ritz-Carlton Suite, now available for reservations. Having emerged from an extensive renovation of the resort’s accommodation and public spaces, the Ritz-Carlton Suite completes the reimagined interiors brought to life by Champalimaud Design. Among the property’s most exclusive, the Suite is rooted in thoughtful design with effortless elegance, local artwork, and luxurious amenities. Merging design moments from the public spaces and the guestrooms, the suite feels contemporary and further connects guests to the nature and culture of the Cayman Islands.   Comprised of a residential-inspired open living and dining area, 700 square-foot private terrace, pantry and one bedroom, the Ritz-Carlton Suite can be expanded to add one double queen bedroom by connecting to an adjoining room. The suite is ideal for extended stays, families and even for intimate gatherings or private receptions. In keeping with the resort’s overall transformation and inspired by the rich history and vibrant diverse culture of the Cayman Islands, guests are now welcomed to stay at the redesigned 2,400 square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite, which features an updated color palette of whites and beiges to reflect the island’s smooth sands, complemented by sweeping views of the iconic Seven Mile Beach. A calacatta turquoise book matched marble floor greets guests as they enter, while the powder room to the left features a silver thatch palm inspired wallcovering, both an homage to place.   Set along the iconic Seven Mile Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is also pleased to announce their recent partnership with ESPA and 111Skin. The Ritz-Carlton Spa and partners will transform the guest experience, creating a destination for holistic treatments and wellness experiences on the island.   The 20,000-square-foot spa provides a luxury oasis on Seven Mile Beach and offers guests one of the finest treatment menus in the Caribbean. The program offers treatments developed and put into practice by ESPA experts and utilize ESPA and 111Skin products, with the aim to provide guests with a holistic wellness experience. The Spa will provide a full body and skincare treatment menu along with a variety of a bespoke treatments and holistic experiences.   Images here, courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.   PUERTO RICO   San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino (San Juan, Puerto Rico)   The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino continues to elevate the art of hosting – raising the bar by consistently delivering heartfelt service, with modern, comfortable spaces, and by providing experiences elevated beyond the everyday. The resort is on an extraordinary journey of transformation – slated to make the overall unveiling in Winter 2023. The design of the new guest room is modern, spacious, and elevated. It features tailored solutions that are as inventive as the guest, along with locally-inspired accents to provide a sense of place.   The new design showcases wood look tile floors for a sleeker, more contemporary appearance, along with clean line furniture and walk-in shower, giving each room a more spacious feel. Brilliant design accents include picturesque private balconies with chic seating, allowing guests to comfortably soak up breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean. Vibrantly colored decorations blend harmoniously with gray-shaded walls and draperies, while abundant natural light brings the whole setting alive before an amazing backdrop of fantastic tropical views.   Conceived to be unlike other oceanfront rooms in Condado, each reimagined space offers modern innovations, including IPTV and wireless charging lamps for smart devices. Work desks have been optimized for laptops, making them more spacious.   A key part of the renovation is the introduction of updated public spaces – the Greatrooms, and Stellaris Casino, and Next Gen Meeting Spaces – that are designed to connect and inspire our guests, whether they are at work or play. As global travelers needs and expectations evolve, so does the resort, with a new sophisticated look and tailored spaces to enrich the guest experience beyond the expected.   Images here, courtesy of the San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino.   ARUBA    The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba (Palm Beach, Aruba)   The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba announces the completion of their most recent reimagination with the debut of new, island-inspired designs in all of the 320 guestrooms, suites and corridors. The contemporary design pays homage to the hotel’s unmatched location along Aruba’s acclaimed Palm Beach with locally inspired design motifs and color waves across the resort’s new textiles and textures featuring custom artwork and elevated comfort. Perfectly paired with a stay in the refreshed guestrooms, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba has also introduced new culinary experiences for guests to enjoy in 2023.   The refurbished guestrooms at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba were inspired by the natural beauty of the island and offer a seamless experience for the enjoyment of all guests. The 320 spacious guest rooms now feature an organic color palate of beiges, blues and greens inspired by Aruba’s beaches, sea, and desert landscapes alongside natural woods and organic granite accents. The updated artwork displayed in each room features endemic succulents and aloe plants, reminiscent of the island’s rugged and vibrant setting, alongside new textured carpets and window curtains framing the ocean views. King guestrooms have been upgraded for extra accommodation with the addition of versatile pull-out sleeper sofas, and all rooms were updated with state-of-the-art technology, paperless offerings, and other modern touches.   Images here, courtesy of The Ritz Carlton, Aruba.   DOMINICAN REPUBLIC    The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)   The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club is redefining contemporary travel with newly refreshed rooms, two new restaurants and bars, a lobby transformation, and new additions to its meeting rooms. Following a multi-million investment by owner Grupo Puntacana, the property will reveal a refreshing change, introducing thoughtful accommodations and sophisticated spaces that blend modern comfort with inspiring exquisiteness.   The renovation will include the complete remodeling of the existing Brassa and Anani restaurants, and the construction of two new themed restaurants, a steakhouse and a Pan Asian influenced cuisine, expanding the world-class gastronomic experience offered by Puntacana Resort & Club. The transformation of the Lobby Bar and the pool area will elevate the dynamic Westin experience, and the new gazebo on the beach will offer the perfect landscape for weddings, photo sessions and special events.   Images here, courtesy of The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club.   Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)   Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic has opened its doors as the first luxury all-inclusive resort for Marriott International and the Luxury Collection, joining the celebrated ensemble of experiential hotels by this iconic brand.   The storied adults-only hotel is now fully open to guests following a four-month renovation in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, which hit just as the resort joined the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio as its 30th property in September 2022.   With a commitment to elevating the all-inclusive concept with unparalleled amenities and diverse culinary options, Marriott International – in collaboration with hotel developer Playa Hotels & Resorts – took the opportunity to further enhance the guest experience with the launch of a brand-new restaurant, beach bar, nightclub and hotel library. Guests can now enjoy light bites and grilled specialities poolside and beachfront at the La Yola Snack Grill, designed in the shape of a canoe; sip creative cocktails and healthy smoothies at a new beach bar; dance the night away at the PM PUB nightclub; and borrow a range of books from the lobby library – including a collection around Dominican culture – to read on their sun lounger.   The property features six pools for relaxation, or if preferred, cabanas and beach sunchairs. Guests can soak up the sun, savor local and international beers or cocktails from the Beach Bar and enjoy the impeccable personalized service. The resort is poised to be the backdrop for unequalled events facing the Caribbean Sea, with matchless facilities offering of approximate 46,000 sq ft of event space, 17 event rooms of indoor and outdoor venues, and 400-people capacity in its largest space.   W Punta Cana (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)   The W Punta Cana in Uvero Alto will be an adults-only all-inclusive luxury property, the first W Hotels in the Dominican market and one of the first W All-Inclusive resorts globally. This vibrant all-inclusive resort will have 349 rooms with balconies and plunge pools, as well as dynamic programming for adults. The resort layout includes a spa with eleven treatment rooms, a shopping area, three pools, and eleven restaurant and bar options.   The project is the first W Hotels in the Dominican Republic and will be inaugurated in the summer of 2024.   Images here, courtesy of W Punta Cana.   ST.THOMAS    The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands)   Experience a new era of island-inspired elegance at the redesigned The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. The beloved resort invites families, couples, and adventure-seekers to encounter the beauty of the Virgin Islands in a new light. Experience a blend between local and global culinary dining offerings including the Archipelago Journey, an immersive food and entertainment focused experience for travelers. The in-house voyage consists of different market style cooking stations with local food from the surrounding islands, where guests are offered a passport to receive stamps from each Caribbean Island station they visit and learn about the distinguished cuisines and spirits.   The journey offers live entertainment available on site for all to enjoy the exotic experience of witnessing the various cultures of the close-knit Caribbean Island family. Visitors can enjoy this gourmet delight on Fridays on a weekly basis.   Sea to Sails is a Tuesday afternoon enjoyment, where guests watch as the local fisherman delivers the freshest catch to the beach of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas at 4:00 pm. Select your fresh catch, choice of garnish and an array of sauces and sides from our seaside fish and seafood market. Each selection is prepared to your liking by our culinary team, creating a unique and customized dish. Dinner and live music from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.   CURAÇAO   The Pyrmont, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort (Curaçao)   Autograph Collection Hotels today celebrated the groundbreaking of the Pyrmont, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, expected to be the first Autograph Collection branded hotel in Curaçao. The resort will feature 300 guest rooms with mesmerizing ocean views out of which 28 are suites, in addition to the thoughtful amenities that distinguish this global collection of independent hotels.   The construction of the Pyrmont is expected to be finalized in the end of 2025 and will feature 8 restaurants, 5 bars, a kids club, a diving and water sports center, infinity pool, an adults-only roof top, a 250-meter-long boardwalk and water breaker, which will create a spectacular beach and pool area, and will also feature a wedding gazebo for memorable events.   Images here, courtesy of The Pyrmont, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort.   MEXICO   Poised to transform the all-inclusive category and inspire a shift in consumer perception, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy announced the signing of three exciting all-inclusive luxury resorts in Mexico with international developer, AB Living Group (AB Living). The three properties are:   Almare, A Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres   A short car or ferry ride from Costa Mujeres, across the beautiful Caribbean Sea, will take travelers to Almare, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, an adults-only all-inclusive resort on Isla Mujeres. The brand’s promise of unique, authentic experiences will be kept at the 105-room property, which is expected to present a modern and sophisticated take on vernacular architecture, layered with locally inspired interior design, to showcase the destination and reiterate The Luxury Collection ethos. Guests can expect to savor decadent creations both reflective of the island paradise and distinctly elevated at any of four extraordinary dining venues before spending a day at one of two swimming pools or sipping a handcrafted cocktail at the newly minted Luxury Collection Resort’s vibrant beach club. Expected to be the first of the three to debut on the picturesque shores with an expected opening to occur in 2024.   JW Marriott All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres   JW Marriott is known for being a haven for guests to focus on their mind, body, and spirit. Through curated programming and offerings that encourage guests to come together and experience every moment to the fullest, the 283-room JW Marriott All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres will move visitors to disconnect and be fully present surrounded by tropical landscapes. Six dining destinations, as well as several swimming pools, and mindfully designed spaces will invite guests to foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. The resort will also feature 53 residential units and ample meeting rooms.   W All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres   W Hotels defy expectations, and the brand’s bold approach will come to life at W All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres. The 300-room, adults-only resort is slated to feature stunning indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, five globally inspired restaurants, bars, and lounges, and expansive swimming pools ideal for fun in the Caribbean sun. The complex will also be home to 10 residences and offer more than 9,000 square feet of event space.   What’s more, a 70,000-square-foot central entertainment venue aptly named “The Village” will connect both resorts, boasting unparalleled food and beverage offerings, breathtaking event space, elegant retail shops, and more. Guests and visitors alike will mingle to enjoy authentic Mexican vibrancy just outside their door.   The 3 luxury-branded, all-inclusive properties aim to further elevate the segment with sophisticated design, curated programming, and exceptional culinary experiences tailored to the unique characteristics embodied by each brand.   RENOVATIONS   Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort   The Marriott Cancun closed its doors last March 13th, 2023, to undergo major renovations and open as the newest all-inclusive hotel in Cancun’s platinum area. This Cancun legacy hotel, previously an European Plan hotel and converting now to All-Inclusive, is slated to be the first Marriott All-Inclusive in the world and will be featuring new design in the guestrooms, ballroom, fitness center, and kids club. The renovations also include 9 new restaurant and bar concepts, a new pool area that includes a family pool, a water park and a lazy river, all surrounded by refined daily and nightly entertainment and with the Mexican Caribbean Sea as a backdrop. Travelers will be able to rediscover the experiences at Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort when it opens in early 2024.   Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort   The Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit, the first all-inclusive resort from the Delta brand and the first to surpass the borders of USA and Canada, is enhancing its guests’ experience with new additions to its offerings. The resort located in the Cruz de Huanacaxtle area is in the final stages of building a new set of room towers to bring the hotel to a total of 200 rooms, and also a Aqua splash experience comprised with cascading pools and jacuzzis, a lazy river, and adults and kids pools surrounded by the endemic flora resembling the natural wonder of the Tolantongo cave springs. These new additions are expected to be completed in Q3 2023.   BARBADOS   Elegant Hotels by Marriott will undergo this year and the next a robust refurbishment plan of its 7 properties in Barbados according to a plan rolled out earlier this year.   Waves Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive   The Waves Resort & Spa, Elegant Hotels’ wellness focused property, will be the first of the 7 resorts to have completed refurbishments before the holiday season in December 2023. The new interior design will enhance guests’ experience with the wellness components incorporated into it. Waves Resort & Spa once completed will become a part of the Autograph Collection brand, Marriott's collection of international, independent hotels carefully curated to leave a lasting imprint on guests.   Crystal Cove - Turtle Beach - The House - Tamarind - Treasure Beach - Colony Club    by Elegant Hotels   The six hotels will also undergo renovations starting at the end of 2023 to meet the demands of today and tomorrow’s customers. The new interior and exterior design will reflect a more modern look and will have all the amenities for a hassle-free journey. The hotels once finished will adopt their new brands though Marriott Bonvoy’s collection brands: Tribute Portfolio (Crystal Cove and Turtle Beach), Autograph Collection (The House, Tamarind and Treasure Beach) and The Luxury Collection (Colony Club).

 

Transformative Experiences and Meaningful Connections Await at JW Marriott’s Haven of Luxury in the Heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya

  JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company’s highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment.   Sitting within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife and wilderness conservation regions, the lodge is a sophisticated and thoughtful sanctuary from which to discover nature and breathtaking vistas in harmony. Exhilarating guided game drives offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is host to the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania.   “Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in. We are excited to welcome travellers to a transformative and wellness-forward stay delivered with JW Marriott’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality.”   Inspired Design    The lodge’s elegant interiors, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, seamlessly blend the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the elements with soft, warm tones, natural materials and textures, and native colours thread through its design. Each of the lodge’s 20 private tents provide a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reset, and feature terraces overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. The tented honeymoon suite offers a private plunge pool, while two interconnecting king and twin suites are ideal for families with children over the age of six (the minimum age of guests at the lodge).   Wellbeing and Mindful Practices    In keeping with JW Marriott’s ethos of mindfulness, the lodge is home to a number of thoughtfully designed spaces from the cosy Adventure Lounge full of books to get lost in and a space for young adults to take time for themselves, to the Cultural Deck where guests can gather around the fire pit to share tales of the day’s exploration.   Capturing the essence of rejuvenation, the Spa by JW emulates the serenity of the reserve and offers tailored experiences and signature treatments which blend locally inspired techniques and therapies. These are complemented by natural and organic products by renowned African skincare brand, Healing Earth, also available as in-room amenities. Guests can enjoy spa treatments from the comfort of their tented suite, accompanied by the sounds of the wilderness. Extending beyond body to mind and spirit with guided yoga, treatments include a ‘Masai Celebration’ incorporating local botanicals and therapies.   Nourishing Culinary Journeys   At the heart of the camp is the JW Garden - an outdoor space for guests to spend time discovering home-grown, organic ingredients, including the lodge’s signature rosemary. The garden’s produce is used by the lodge’s chefs to craft personalised dishes, cocktails, and mocktails. The garden will host daily programming, including live cooking, interactive cocktail mixology, and chef-led talks for a true farm-to-table experience. A relaxing gathering place, Fig Tree Lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains from the indoor and outdoor bar and serves refreshing cocktails and mocktails infused with seasonal ingredients from the lodge’s garden. An indoor and alfresco dining experience at Sarabi Restaurant takes guests on a nourishing epicurean experience guided by JW Garden ingredients and local culinary heritage. Guests can venture out into the reserve with the lodge’s guides to enjoy a freshly prepared ‘Bush Breakfast’ or dinner while sipping sundowners and soaking in the breathtaking savannah vistas.   Connection to the Locale    The lodge’s community programming provides an authentic insight into meaningful local projects, including The Maa Trust, an organisation empowering local people by promoting small business start-ups. The lodge donates a percentage of the nightly rate per person to the organisation and provides a space for craftspeople to retail Maa Beadwork and produce. Guests can visit The Maa Trust to meet with local artisans and forge a deeper connection to the people in the area.   Currently, 60 percent of the lodge’s team are locals, with plans to reach 70 percent, ensuring the hotel’s contribution to the socio-economic development of the region. As an ongoing initiative, JW Marriott Masai Mara’s Apprenticeship Programme invites young women from the community to diversify their skills and broaden their experience to kick-start their careers in the hospitality industry. Partnership with the community began during the early development process of the lodge. Developed on land committed to a tourism project so as not to unduly disturb the surrounding environment, much of the construction was undertaken by local experts overseen by technical specialists, with build materials sourced from sustainable suppliers. The lodge has rehabilitated access roads to the property, installed power to the area, and provided access to clean drinking water for locals through a water treatment plant.   Emphasis on waste reduction and recycling is integral to daily operations. The lodge’s water treatment plant provides recycled and sanitised water; food waste is placed at the lodge’s compost site; and water wells are dotted around the lodge for animals to quench their thirst throughout the day.   By supporting local organisations such as The Mara Elephant Project and The Mara Protector Conservation Programme, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge contributes to protecting animals and their habitat across the greater Mara ecosystem. Bringing a passion for the surrounding wildlife and nature to guests, the lodge’s Head Guide is a lifelong conservationist who holds talks about local culture at the lodge as well as guided walking tours. With an abundance of meaningful moments to experience at the lodge, guests can delve into photography and learn new skills at the lodge’s very own studio.   JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.   Bookings for JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are now open with prices from $1450 per person, per night (all-inclusive board basis). For more information, visit  www.marriott.com. 

 

• Almost half of travellers will spend more on travel overall in 2023 – with many planning on more holidays as the sector continues a strong recovery – but look to save money where they can
• Travelling at different times of the year, and holidays without the children are ways UK consumers plan to maximise their travel budgets this year
• Wellbeing-led holidays set to be the most popular type of holiday for UK travellers in 2023
• Hybrid working will see millions of workers log on whilst away to avoid taking annual leave
• After price, cleanliness, location and peace and quiet are now the most important considerations when booking holiday accommodation for UK travellers
• Sustainability is also a key consideration for most holidaymakers

  British adults will be safeguarding spending on holidays in 2023, with most (80%) planning to go away, and many (34%) planning more breaks than in 2022. This is, in part, thanks to more confidence that holiday plans won’t be impacted by Covid this year, and the fact that travel remains a priority for UK consumers in 2023. Sustainability also plays an important role in 2023 travel plans, whilst ‘having a break from it all’ is key for holidaymakers.   These are the UK findings of Marriott Bonvoy’s 2023 Travel Trends research, which analysed the 2023 travel plans of 14,000 travellers across Europe and the Middle East.   Furthermore, data on hotel bookings from Marriott Bonvoy shows a clear return of confidence to book further ahead for travellers from the UK. In October 2022, hotel bookings from the UK for 61-180 days ahead were up 79% compared to the same month in 2021. Meanwhile in November they were up 52%.   Wellbeing Warriors Seeking Authentic Travel   Wellbeing-led holidays that allow people to get away from it all will be the predominant type of break UK holidaymakers will be taking in 2023 (44%). Of those going on these holidays, 59% say they have become more aware of their wellbeing, 41% say they need a break from everyday life and 37% don’t wish to come home from a holiday feeling more tired than when they left.   Authentic travel is also key, with many wanting to immerse themselves in a complete change of culture, with over half (55%) wanting to explore new destinations and cultures, and four in ten (39%) saying they love exploring local dining options whilst away. To truly soak up local culture, 11% plan on taking an ‘extended holiday’ of three weeks or more in one destination.   Of those going on an extended holiday, 36% say that it is the first time they have done so, with the need for an extended change of scene (50%) and wanting to live like a local (34%) being key reasons. Three in ten (29%) of those going on extended holidays also highlighted that being able to work remotely allows them to take a long holiday without having to take annual leave for the whole break.   In fact, hybrid and remote working has had a significant impact on travel plans in 2023. One in ten British adults (10%) plan to take a ‘work-away holiday’ – where they will continue to log on and work whilst away, thus allowing them to experience a new place without taking annual leave - a benefit highlighted by 43%.   Travellers Expect a Premium Experience   In 2023, 40% of UK travellers plan to spend more on their holidays compared to the previous year, with just 19% planning to spend less. Around one in eight (12%) plan to splash out and stay in true luxury accommodation, whilst all-inclusive (17%) and self-catering apartments (14%) will also be popular options.   As a result, UK consumers have high expectations with regards to their holiday accommodation on aspects such as cleanliness (60%), location (60%) and peace and quiet (30%). Likely impacted by the pandemic, cleanliness is now the joint-second priority for accommodation, alongside location and only beaten by ‘price’ (71%) which will undoubtedly continue to be a key factor.   Safeguarding 2023 Spend on Holiday and Savvy Travelling Tips   With 80% of respondents planning to go away, the majority of travellers are clearly trying to ring fence spending for holidays. Overall a third (34%) of those planning to go away say they will be going on more holidays in 2023 compared to the previous year, whilst 26% say they will be doing fewer, suggesting a continued upwards trajectory for the industry post pandemic.   Amongst the minority (20%) of those not planning to go away, a lack of disposable income (66%) alongside the cost of living crisis and inflation specifically (48%) were the key reasons.   Travellers are being smarter in the ways they are planning to save so they can safeguard their premium holiday experience – for example, to ensure they can still go to the destination they want, 42% plan to travel at different times of the year, whilst 35% say they will make do with the clothes they wore on holiday last year. Only 28% say they would opt for a less expensive destination, whilst just 27% will opt for cheaper accommodation.   To ensure they can still go to their favourite destinations and hotels, some say they’ll share a room with other people they are travelling with (15%) whilst 20% of parents say they will share a room with their children rather than getting them their own room. In fact, one in ten (9%) of those with children under the age of 18 say that they will leave them at home in 2023. And it could also be bad news for grown up children still relying on their parents for free holidays, with 13% of those with children over 18 saying they won’t take them away this year.   The Sustainability Factor    Sustainability is now a key factor when it comes to UK travel plans, with 63% saying environmental considerations now have some impact on their arrangements. Four in ten (41%) say they are conscious of the environmental impact of their holidays, whilst 22% go as far as to say environmental considerations define their travel plans and they will only spend money with companies that have a positive environmental impact.   As a result, 40% of British holidaymakers plan to have a staycation in the UK in 2023. Short haul trips will also be in demand, with Spain the next most popular choice (34%), followed by Italy (16%), France (14%) and Greece (14%).   Neal Jones, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Marriott International - Europe, Middle East & Africa: “Travel trends for 2023 are more interesting than ever due to the unique situation we are in, as we look ahead to the way consumers plan to travel this year.    “What comes across very clearly is a resurgence in the sector based in large part on increased confidence amongst travellers in the UK market, with four in ten planning to spend more than last year. This clearly shows great optimism, but also that people will be ring-fencing holiday spending. Perhaps as a sign of the times, travellers will be focusing their spending on the core elements of their trip - accommodation, travel and destination - but will take a more conservative approach to spending on less vital elements of the holiday, such as presents or new clothes.”   “We are also seeing other, existing trends come into sharper focus. I’m delighted to see the priority that so many UK travellers are putting on sustainability, with most taking it into consideration and many shaping their holidays around this. The pandemic also hastened the increase in remote working and it is clear that many plan to take advantage of this, using the opportunity to get away without taking annual leave.”  

Marriott International announced its expansion into apartment-style accommodations with the launch of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy. The company is tapping the growing consumer interest for more space for stays, propelled by the blending of work and leisure travel. It is building upon its experience with Marriott Executive Apartments, its serviced-apartment brand in Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. With the introduction of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy, the company expects it will enhance portfolio growth globally and bring the serviced-apartment concept to Marriott guests in the US and Canada. “The introduction of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy offers developers a premium product backed by our trusted name and distribution platform,” said Stephanie Linnartz, President, Marriott International. “With Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy, guests will be able to shop a wider array of accommodation options within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio.” Marriott plans to introduce Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy in the upper-upscale and luxury segments, distinguished from Marriott’s existing extended-stay brands. Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will feature a separate living room and bedroom, full kitchen, and in-unit washer and dryer.

Marriott International released its 2022 Serve 360 Report presenting data from 2021 on its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts. In support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Marriott’s sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction, guides the company's commitment. Launched in 2017, the company is celebrating five years of Serve 360’s impact. In addition to showcasing data on company diversity, sustainable operations, volunteerism, and other ESG activities, 2021 highlights include:

• Committed to set a science-based target and reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by no later than 2050.
• Announced an accelerated goal to achieve global gender parity in executive positions by 2023 – two years ahead of the original goal.
• Established the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership to help build a pipeline of diverse talent by inspiring Black students to enter the hospitality industry.
• Launched the next iteration of Marriott’s human trafficking awareness training, which uses real-life scenarios to support the 2025 goal to train 100% of on-property associates.
• Piloted Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy to provide guests the opportunity to create a positive impact across communities in the Asia Pacific region.

Marriott International has officially opened its new global headquarters in downtown Bethesda, Maryland. The 21-story building is the new workplace for corporate associates, which supportg over 8,100 hotels in 139 countries. It taken six years of planning, design, and construction Anthony Capuano, Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International said: “The campus has been designed to better connect our global workforce in support of our hotels and teams around the world.” Marriott’s new HQ campus includes the new Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ. The new building will also serve as a global hub for Marriott’s research and development operation, featuring its Innovation and Design Lab, a premium test kitchen and beverage bar, as well as ‘model’ hotel rooms in the adjacent Marriott hotel. The Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ servess as an extension of Marriott’s Design Lab, containing 13 sample ‘test rooms,’ each customizable for different brands. These active rooms can deploy design, technology, and new product and service offerings with customers and other key stakeholders.

Luxury tour operator If Only have teamed up with Marriott International to launch a new campaign ‘Stay Your Way with Marriott’, designed to inspire travel to Marriott International hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The multi-channel marketing campaign runs from August until December 2022. If Only will provide marketing materials to enable agents to engage their customers, from e-shots sent directly to travel agents to social media offers plus other additional content. The hotels to be featured during the campaign are: Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, The Ritz Carlton Dubai, W Dubai – The Palm, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, The Westin Dubai Mini Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Grosvenor House, Habtoor Grand Resort, Bvlgari Dubai and W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. To support travel agents in driving bookings, If Only have established a dedicated campaign hub on Google Drive. The hub contains downloadable posters featuring exclusive offers, which can also be used to promote the campaign, plus a campaign landing page: ifonly.net/campaigns/stay-your-way-with-marriott-international Travel agents will also have the chance to win a six night luxury stay at Marriott United Arab Emirates properties, plus an Al Maha Bedouin day package which will be awarded to the top booker during the campaign. To enter, agents simply have to make as many bookings as possible until 31December 2022 with If Only to the focused Marriott International properties. Prizes include: 2 night stay at W Dubai – The Palm 2 night stay at Ritz-Carlton Dubai (Jumeirah Beach) 2 night stay at St. Regis Abu Dhabi (Corniche) Al Maha Bedouin day pass including breakfast and lunch plus activities More at ifonly.net/agents/incentives

Marriott Bonvoy has released a revamped version of its Android mobile app. The roll-out of the newest features on the Marriott Bonvoy app offers more seamless options for users. New travel shopping options give access to more Marriott offerings, including 65,000+ luxury vacation rentals from Homes & Villas by Marriott International alongside Marriott Bonvoy’s 30 brands and 8,000+ hotels. The launch on Android follows the update that launched on Apple’s iOS operating system in 2021. The app allows members to customize their experience through contactless check-in and check-out, and request services and amenities via chat and mobile requests. “We’re excited to be able to offer Android users the chance to enjoy the new features now,” said Sarah Searls, Senior Vice President Digital, Marriott International. “The enhanced app simplifies the travel planning process, allows for the most frictionless experience before and during your stay.” Updated searching allows users to search and book accommodations by hotel brand, destination, price, or points needed for a free night’s stay. It is also easier for members to earn points: They can see relevant promotions on the home screen and their account page, giving them easy access to promotions for stays, Uber rides or Uber Eats, airline partners, and more. The app is available in seven languages – English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Korean and Chinese, with more to come.