Marriott International officially its 600^th property in the Asia Pacific region excluding China. It unveiled the Adelaide Marriott Hotel which is the first Marriott International property in South Australia. It is part of the 150-year-old landmark Adelaide General Post Office (GPO) building with a 14-storey tower housing 285 guestrooms including 12 suites. The first Marriott Hotels branded property in the APEC region opened in Sydney in 1989 with the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay. Today, there are over 50 Marriott branded Asia Pacific hotels, and almost 40 in the development pipeline. “We are thrilled to celebrate our 600^th property milestone,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “With 600 operational properties and close to 400 in the pipeline, our growth trajectory is robust." 

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  Blue Diamond Resorts’ newly opened Royalton CHIC Antigua aligns itself with Marriott International’s prestigious Autograph Collection brand to become the 33^rd property in the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. As an official Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort - Adults Only property, Royalton CHIC Antigua is recognised for its elegant luxury and truly personalised service as the brand continues its drive to redefine the all-inclusive concept. The addition of Royalton CHIC Antigua also marks a significant enhancement to Marriott International’s footprint in the Caribbean, offering guests an elevated adults-only, all-inclusive getaway on the stunning island of Antigua.   As a part of All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy, guests staying at Royalton CHIC Antigua can enjoy a seamless and rewarding all-inclusive travel experience, earning and redeeming points through Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program.   The new Royalton CHIC Antigua, which opened its doors in May 2024, is just a 15-minute transfer from the island’s V. C. Bird International Airport. Boasting elevated luxury with 235 beautifully appointed rooms and suites that include the exclusive Royalton signature DreamBed™, the property offers five bars and seven restaurants, including the overwater seafood restaurant Pescari, which individually cater to a variety of different tastes with cuisines from around the globe via buffet style dining and al a carte options. The Royal Spa and the hotel’s sports and fitness facilities offer a holistic entertainment program via the wellness system Royalton FIT, which includes cutting-edge cardio and weight amenities, outdoor courts, expert-led classes, personalised training, and immersive experiences designed to ignite the journey towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.   Luke Swarbrook, Business Development Manager UK, Blue Diamond Resorts comments: “The integration of our newest resort, Royalton CHIC Antigua, into the All-Inclusive by Marriott portfolio is a proud moment for us. As a brand we are committed to providing unique and personalised all-inclusive experiences and this new venture with Marriott International is a testament to the quality of our elevated luxury product. It also shows recognition of our efforts as we work to redefine the nature of the all-inclusive hospitality industry.”   This addition further strengthens the partnership between Marriott International and Blue Diamond Resorts, as Royalton CHIC Antigua becomes the 23rd resort to join the joint venture. The list includes other notable properties such as Planet Hollywood in Costa Rica and Royalton Splash in Punta Cana, both part of the Autograph Collection, as well as Mystique Holbox which is part of the Tribute Portfolio.

 

Anticipated to open in late 2024, the property will undergo a conversion process before bringing The Luxury Collection brand to the Mexican Caribbean

  Following its recent announcement of successful growth in the luxury segment across the United States through conversions, Marriott International Inc. announced that it will work with the hotel operator Playa Hotels & Resorts to expand The Luxury Collection brand in the Mexican Caribbean, with Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Riviera Maya.  Set to open in late 2024, the resort will be situated on 14 acres of lush natural landscape, nestled between a mangrove reserve and the pristine waters of the Mexican Caribbean.   “We are delighted to expand the footprint of The Luxury Collection in Mexico and can’t think of a better company to do so than Playa Hotels & Resorts,” said Laurent de Kousemaeker, Chief Development Officer for Marriott International in the Caribbean and Latin America. “Paraiso de la Bonita will continue to deliver on The Luxury Collection promise of providing access to the most fascinating and sought-after locations on earth, while offering unparalleled amenities and service that discerning global explorers have come to expect from the brand.”   The property is located in Puerto Morelos, a picturesque fishermen village, which is just 20 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, yet a world apart from the popular and bustling tourist spots nearby. The resort is anticipated to feature 100 oversized, stylish oceanfront suites, as well as an array of amenities, including an expansive 22,000 sq. foot spa. In line with the brand’s commitment to showcase local gastronomy and provide unique, locally inspired dining experiences, the resort is anticipated to have three restaurants, including one with a 5,000-bottle cellar, as well as a sushi and ceviche bar. To provide an even more exclusive experience, there will be a separate building within the property that will act as a “resort within the resort” with 10 suites with private plunge pools and beach access, an intimate exclusive pool, and two dedicated restaurants with a private chef.   “Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Riviera Maya is the result of Playa's strategic initiative to offer our customers differentiated concepts in the all-inclusive segment. We are excited to continue expanding our managed portfolio alongside Marriott International. The demand for luxury all-inclusive products has been growing significantly, and we are proud to lead this transformation,” commented Fernando Mulet, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer for Playa Hotels & Resorts.   This signing reinforces Marriott’s strength in conversion-friendly brand offerings, a model that provides owners and franchisees greater flexibility and cost-savings, while leveraging the power of Marriott’s global hospitality platform. The company anticipates substantial conversion opportunities within the luxury segment for The Luxury Collection brand, adding to its diverse portfolio of conversion-friendly brands spanning various brand segments, including Autograph Collection Hotels, Tribute Portfolio, Delta Hotels, and Four Points by Sheraton.   The upcoming addition of Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Riviera Maya further strengthens Marriott International's portfolio of luxury and adults-only all-inclusive resorts, including Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Punta Cana and Almare, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres. With this signing, Marriott International continues its expansion path in the Caribbean and Latin America and solidifies its position as a key player in the hospitality industry by redefining the all-inclusive luxury segment.

 

Unparalleled elegance awaits at Almare, A Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres, which will be Marriott International’s newest addition to its prestigious Luxury Collection brand, further growing its All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio.

  Set to become the first all-inclusive luxury resort for the company in Mexico, Almare, A Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres is now accepting bookings for stays starting November 15, 2024, just in time for the festive season.   "We are thrilled to announce that bookings are now open for Almare in Isla Mujeres," said Xavier Pineda, Director of Sales & Marketing All-Inclusive, Marriott International. "Being the first luxury all-inclusive in Mexico comes with great honor, and this distinctive hotel will combine the natural beauty of the destination with inspired design and exceptional service and amenities synonymous with the Luxury Collection brand."   Located on the idyllic Isla Mujeres just off the vibrant shores of Cancun, this unique property promises an intimate connection with the Mexican Caribbean. Each of the 109 beautifully appointed suites boasts expansive balconies that frame unparalleled views, offering a haven of luxury amidst the breathtaking natural beauty. Here, sophistication and indigenous charm converge, ensuring an unforgettable stay that embodies the very essence of indulgence and authentic local culture.   Guests that book in advance will indulge in a variety of authentic gastronomic moments at one of the hotel's 7 restaurants and bars, showcasing the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine and international favorites. Guests will also experience epicurean journeys thoughtfully tailored for every type of traveler, harmonizing with the essence of each destination's seasonal charm.   For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Almare, A Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort will present a sanctuary of wellness at its world-class spa Alma, where ancient Mayan and Caribbean healing traditions harmonize with modern luxury rituals. It will feature a state-of-the-art fitness center, a salt room, a full salon, and a hydrotherapy pool.   "We are proud to introduce the Luxury Collection brand to Isla Mujeres, offering guests a truly extraordinary experience that celebrates the beauty and culture of this incredible destination," said Enrique Solari, General Manager for Almare Resort. "Welcoming soon our first guests is a moment we've been eagerly anticipating, and we're committed to creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime."

Courtyard by Marriott has unveiled its first Perth hotel. Courtyard by Marriott Perth, Murdoch marks the brand’s debut in Western Australia. Developed in partnership with Western Australian property developer Hesperia, the hotel is located in Murdoch, Perth’s fastest-growing urban catchment area. It features all-day contemporary dining venue, Substance Restaurant & Bar, as well as flexible spaces for meetings and a 24-hour fitness centre. It is located around 10 minutes from Perth’s Central Business District and 25 minutes from Perth International Airport. The hotel is expected to attract a broad range of business and leisure travellers. The Courtyard by Marriott brand has the largest global footprint among Marriott Bonvoy’s over 30 brands. Diana Plazas-Trowbridge, SVP and Global Brand Leader for Marriott Select brands said: “We are excited to continue opening hotels in significant urban growth corridors.” “This is an ideal fit for Courtyard by Marriott.” The Perth hotel’s 150 rooms range from 28 sqm to 56 sqm and comprise a mix of room types designed to maximise space and natural light They feature flexible workspaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and complimentary Wi-Fi. Reservations for Courtyard by Marriott Perth, Murdoch are now open for stays starting April 1, 2024, with a special lead-in rate from $169 per room per night 

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Marriott International has teamed up with Cathay Membership loyalty program, offering reciprocal perks to their respective members. They will gain access to both programs’ benefits through limited status match offer, and accelerated points earning. The strengthened partnership provides Marriott International with access to Cathay’s extensive membership base. There are 11 million Cathay members globally who can stay at nearly 8,800 Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts. Together, Marriott Bonvoy and Cathay loyalty program members can avail perks like hotel stay redemptions, two-way points transfer, and upgraded flight and travel package experiences. “We are committed to curating the best experiences to connect our members through the power of travel,” said Alison Yang, Marriott VP, Revenue Strategy, Loyalty & Partnerships, Distribution, Greater China. New reciprocal benefits of the partnership include a two-way points conversion between Marriott Bonvoy Points and Asia Miles. It calculates as 3 Marriott Bonvoy points to 1 Asia Mile, and 2 Asia Miles become 1 Marriott Bonvoy point. Marriott Bonvoy members can transfer their Points to Miles to redeem flight tickets and more. There is an opportunity to status match Marriott Bonvoy and Cathay membership tiers and accelerate access to more exclusive benefits. Marriott Bonvoy Platinum/Titanium/Ambassador Elite members will be matched to the Cathay Silver membership tier, subject to a limited quota. Cathay Silver/Gold/Diamond members can enjoy equivalent Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status. “Strengthening our partnership with Marriott allows Cathay members to unlock benefits even when they’re not flying. Members can enjoy more ways to earn and redeem their points and miles," said Paul Smitton, Director pf Customer Lifestyle, Cathay.

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  BRAND NEW ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS    Almare, a Luxury Collection All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres, Mexico will open in Q2 2024 as the brand’s second all-inclusive Luxury Collection property. An off-the-beaten path destination for adventure-seeking travelers, Isla Mujeres is an island paradise located just a short car or ferry ride away from Costa Mujeres and across the bay from Cancun.  The 105-room property will feature a modern, sophisticated take on vernacular architecture, layered with locally-inspired interior design to showcase the beauty of the locale. Promising unique, authentic experiences synonymous with The Luxury Collection ethos, the resort will feature two glittering pools, a vibrant beach club, and four dining destinations where guests can savor a decadent twist on authentic cuisine or an expertly crafted cocktail.  

• Link to image here, courtesy of Almare, a Luxury Co0llection All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres

  W All-Inclusive Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is slated to open in late 2024. The launch is expected to mark the debut of W Hotels both in the Dominican Republic and in the all-inclusive space - a brand known for its modern, bold luxury service with a vibrant ambiance. Situated on the picturesque shores of Uvero Alto, this adults-only, all-inclusive, new-build resort is anticipated to feature 349 guestrooms with balconies and plunge pools, as well as several suites. Plans for the resort include a spa with 11 treatment rooms, three dazzling pools with pool bars, 11 dining and drinking destinations, and immersive, dynamic adults-focused programming.  

• Image here, courtesy of W All-Inclusive Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

  All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy is also set to introduce new properties in 2025. Adding two Mexico-based properties to the portfolio, new-builds JW Marriott All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres and W All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres, both will be situated in sunny Costa Mujeres located in the Cancun area. The brand also recently announced two additional new build properties to open in Brazil’s Maricá region. Located in Rio de Janeiro, a new destination for the brand, the two hotels will be a JW Marriott All-Inclusive, which will expand the portfolio’s all-inclusive luxury offerings within South America, as well as a themed hotel inspired by the country’s most popular music festival, the Rock in Rio, joining as a part of the Autograph Collection.   EXCITING RENOVATIONS AND RE-OPENINGS    Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, Mexico will re-open as an all-inclusive in spring 2024, becoming the first Marriott branded all-inclusive resort in the world.   The iconic, award-winning hotel, previously named Marriott Cancun, has been Marriott International’s legacy property in the Yucatan Peninsula for several decades. The re-opening will unveil redesigned rooms and suites as well as a core facilities make-over, expansive pools and aquatic attractions, innovative restaurant concepts and nightlife experiences.   The resort will also be the first to launch CAMP Club, a new partnership between Marriott Bonvoy and CAMP, the experts in family experiences, set to roll out across the rest of the portfolio after a successful pilot program in 2022. The engaging, interactive programming tailored to children of all ages focuses on sensory, visual and experiential play. Activities will include guided arts and crafts workshops, slime-making lessons at CAMP’s signature Schmutz Bar, games and storytelling, and themed environments to spark creativity including colorful visual graphics and ‘disco cabins’ with floor-to-ceiling sequins.   Please find a full press release announcing the opening here and images here.   Please find a full press release announcing the partnership with CAMP here.   Treasure Beach by Elegant Hotels, Barbados is set to re-open in 2024, as the first of the seven Elegant Hotels in Barbados to be renovated and transformed into Marriott International’s luxury and premium brands throughout 2024 and 2025.   Treasure Beach will become an Autograph Collection hotel, a brand comprising over 290 distinctive independent hotels that are carefully crafted to leave a lasting imprint like nothing else. Set on a stunning stretch of the Platinum West Coast, the intimate, adults-only property is ideal for lovers of food and gastronomy with Chef’s Table experiences, interactive culinary workshops and art crawls.   Adults-only The House, wellness-focused Waves Hotel & Spa and charming Tamarind will also re-open as Autograph Collection properties at a later stage. Family-friendly all-inclusives Turtle Beach and Crystal Cove will eventually join the Tribute Portfolio, a brand that encompasses handpicked independent boutique hotels bound by their indie spirit, which strike a chord with those seeking vibrant experiences and connection with the community when traveling. Colony Club, which boasts lagoon-style pools and an iconic Rum Vault, will join the iconic Luxury Collection but will remain as a non-all-inclusive.

  Antoinette Van den Berg, VP Sales & Distribution, Operations at Marriott International, provided insights into the hotel giant's expansive portfolio, spanning City hotels, Resorts, and recently acquired City Express properties. Emphasizing local engagement, Van den Berg discussed the company's commitment to integrating community experiences and flavors into their offerings. Despite challenges in certain destinations, 2023 has proven a phenomenal year, especially for the Resorts portfolio, with double-digit growth in the all-inclusive segment. Anticipating a promising 2024, the interview reflects Marriott's dedication to tailored guest experiences and continued success in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.  

 

• A fifth of UK travellers have used AI to help them plan a holiday according to the Marriott Bonvoy 2024 Future Travel Trends research
• ‘Dupe’ destinations and slow travel set to be key themes
• Half of UK travellers prepared to pay more for eco-friendly accommodation
• Most UK travellers plan to spend more on holidays over the next three years

  UK travellers plan to increase their spending on breaks and holidays over the next three years and will have more of an eye on sustainability than ever before. However, high temperatures in parts of Europe could impact when and where people travel for their ‘summer holidays’ in the coming years.   Other key trends will also come to the fore. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become a key tool for holiday planning - with a fifth (19%) of people already using it for this purpose. Meanwhile ‘dupe’ destinations - that are similar to traditional holiday destinations but closer and cheaper - will be another key theme.   In addition, ‘slow holidays’ - where travellers take their time, connect with the local culture, disconnect from technology and minimise their impact on the environment - will be another significant trend.   These are the key outtakes from the UK findings of Marriott Bonvoy’s 2024 Future Travel Trends research, in collaboration with foresight agency The Future Laboratory, which analysed the travel plans of 14,000 travellers across Europe and the Middle East over the next three years.   The rise of AI    The era of AI holiday planning is very much here - one in five UK adults (19%) have used AI to help them plan or research a holiday - rising as high as four in ten for younger adults (39% of those aged 18-34).   Amongst those who did use AI, 93% say it influenced their holiday decision in some way. This includes booking the accommodation it recommended (25%), booking at the time of year it recommended (25%), and booking food it recommended (24%)   Emerging trends   The research investigates several travel trends that are likely to emerge or strengthen over the coming years. Amongst them, ‘slow holidays’ are becoming increasingly popular. Nearly half of UK travellers (46%) say they have already been on a ‘slow’ holiday - and 31% have several times. Meanwhile, half (49%) say they plan to go on a slow holiday in the next three years.   In addition, ‘dupe destinations’ – such as the Lake District over Lake Como, the vineyards of Northern Spain instead of South Africa, surfing in Portugal instead of Hawaii, or Morocco instead of Dubai – will be another key theme. Over a quarter (26%) of those intending to go away in the next three years are planning to save travel time and money by having a similar experience through a ‘dupe destination’. Solo holidays, something 36% of UK travellers who have been away in the past three years have done in that period, will also continue to be a significant trend. This will be most prevalent amongst younger adults, with 47% of those aged 18-24 and 46% of those aged 25-34 who intend to go away in the next three years planning to go on one.   Changing Summer holiday patterns?    The extremely high temperatures that parts of Europe experienced this summer could be set to impact holiday plans in the coming years for UK holidaymakers. Seven in ten (69%) say that if these temperatures became a regular occurrence, it would impact their summer holiday plans. While there is no suggestion that people would avoid holidays because of this, some may be amending what they intend to do and when they choose to travel.   Three in ten (29%) say they would instead choose to go somewhere cooler, 25% would visit the destinations at different times of the year, and 15% say they would take different types of holidays in summer.   Spending and sustainability both up    Nine in ten UK adults (89%) say they will be going on holidays over the course of the next three years - 75% are planning to take a holiday in 2024. Of them, 53% say they plan to ‘spend more than usual’ on holidays over the period, with one in five (19%) saying they will spend ‘much more’.   Over the next three years, sustainability will be on the agenda more than ever before. Around half (51%) say they would be happy to pay more for environmentally friendly accommodation - however they would on average only be prepared to pay 14% more. In addition, eight in ten (80%) say that accommodation providers and holiday companies have a responsibility to support the local communities where they offer holidays.   For many, sustainability is already important - one in five UK adults (18%) say they looked into how sustainable the last accommodation they stayed in was before they booked it, with a further 18% doing so after booking. In addition, 47% say they check the environmental impact of their travel plans ‘sometimes’ - although currently only 7% say they ‘always’ do.   Value for money will be key    Whilst on the whole spending on holidays is set to increase, travellers will continue to seek good value for money and save where they can. Just seven per cent of those planning to take holidays in the next three years say they won’t be looking to save money on some elements of their holidays.   A third of UK travellers (32%) will try to save by going on more domestic holidays, while 28% will favour all-inclusive holidays, to help them plan their spending and for cost certainty. Many will also look to make savings by booking at the right time - 25% will book further in advance, while 24% will book last-minute. And 13% will use loyalty programmes to pay for some or all of their holiday with points.   Neal Jones, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Marriott International - Europe, Middle East & Africa: “With the leisure travel market well and truly back to ‘normal’ we are now in a stronger position when it comes to looking at future trends and travel habits for the sector over the next few years. The post covid travel rebound is still going strong but because of what travel means to people, there’s been a seismic shift in people’s thought processes and prioritisation of funds. We are seeing that there is a more considered approach to travel, and a more emotional connection to travel that’s really unfolding in tandem with people’s core values.   “Two trends we have seen coming to the fore in particular from the consumer research are sustainability and AI – particularly amongst younger travellers under the age of 45. Being ecologically responsible is moving from being a ‘nice-to-have’ to a ‘must-have’ for many of these travellers and will only become more so.    “What’s really interesting to see from this research is the already-established use of AI for holiday planning. Generative AI is perfectly placed to analyse huge amounts of information for travellers, and offer them recommendations based on it. With nine in ten of those who have used it saying it impacted their travel plans, we expect its use to become even more mainstream in the next three years. As a result, travel providers like us need to ensure that we have the information available for AI to find and share with those doing their holiday research.”  

Marriott International has marked the milestone of 50 hotels open in Thailand. It comes as the Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection officially welcomed guests. Marriott expects to add a further 10 hotels by the end of 2024. "We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the 50^th hotel opening, marking a major milestone," said Jakob Helgen, Area Vice President. The company entered the Thailand market 27 years ago. It now has Thailand hotels in 15 brands located in more than 10 Thai destinations. "With the support of our associates, we will continue to redefine the hospitality landscape," Helgen added. The Ritz-Carlton brand is set to debut in Bangkok in 2024 in the upcoming One Bangkok mixed-use development. The newest Thailand hotel marks the debut of Autograph Collection Hotels. The Tribute Portfolio brand is also expected to debut in Thailand next year with the opening of Tribute Portfolio Metropole Bangkok. Other expected openings this year include two Marriott Executive Apartments in Sukhumvit 50 and 101, alongside the Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. Additionally, the flagship Marriott Hotels brand is also set to debut in Khao Lak in 2024. Later this year, Moxy Hotels will debut with the opening of Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong while Courtyard by Marriott adds another two new hotels, one near the Suvarnabhumi International Airport and in Phuket.  

 

From seaside getaways in Phuket and the Maldives, city exploration in Tokyo and Melbourne to nature retreats in Ubud and Gifu, Marriott Bonvoy offers an unforgettable summer for holiday seekers

  With the long-awaited arrival of summer holiday, it's the perfect time for travelers to book a fun-filled break. Asia Pacific boasts a full array of bucket list adventures, whether travelers are looking to mingle in the bustling crowd of mega cities or venture to off-the-beaten-track destinations, travelers – no matter solo, group, or families traveling will children – will be able to explore the region in a way that fits their preferences.   Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary hotel brands boasts hotels with various scenic backdrops, ranging from the turquoise waters of the Maldives to the steep ravines of Ubud and the energetic atmosphere of Bangkok, travelers are welcome to select the perfect summer destination to add to their bucket list in 2023.   SEASIDE RESORTS Nothing says "summer holiday" more than images of sunny afternoons on the shore, salty swims in bright blue waters, and swanky sunset cocktails. Asia Pacific has no shortages of Instagram-worthy beaches, presenting as idyllic corners of the globe for travelers to discover. Here, Marriott Bonvoy details some of the best ways to visit and stay at Asia Pacific's best seaside destinations.   Where to stay?   Maldives: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa   Situated on the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, a 35-minute seaplane journey away from Malé International Airport, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs with vibrant marine life. Curious travelers are invited to unlock the heart of the destination through the resort's Marine Master program, part of Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, where guests can plant their own coral frame with the guidance of the resident marine biologist and learn about the environmental effects of climate change. True to the brand's spirit of savouring the good life, the resort offers "Chase Endless Summer" package for travelers to enjoy complimentary offerings including buffet breakfast and dinner at Turquoise, daily water sports activity, and discounted spa treatments at Explore Spa.   Beihai: Sheraton Beihai Resort   A quaint twist to the usual seaside getaways – recently opened in May this year, Sheraton Beihai Resort is situated in Guantouling National Forest Park at the western end of downtown Beihai with commanding views over both mountain and sea. Once a departure port on the Maritime Silk Road, Beihai's natural seaside setting and unique cultures of the Tanka fishing villages make it an up-and-coming holiday destination. The resort features Sheraton's reimagined design, setting to be a community hub for travelers and local guests alike through brand signatures such as the Community Table, a space where travelers can connect with each other and be energized, and elevated dining outlets such as &More that offers an invigorating coffee program.   CITY EXPLORATION   For travelers looking for a summer vacation outside of the well-traversed seaside getaways, Asia boasts an impressive array of vibrant metropolitan areas with exciting experiences, including traditional summer festivals in Tokyo, rich historical sites in Xi'an, and endless culinary offerings in Bangkok for travelers to indulge to the fullest extent. Here, Marriott Bonvoy presents the best places to stay at when exploring some of the most alluring cities in the region.   Where to Stay?   Bangkok: Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection   Bangkok, a city of gleaming monasteries, soaring skyscrapers and clusters of village-style houses, is the gateway to modern Thailand, as well as one of the most coveted destinations for travelers of all ages to explore. Thong Lor district is one of the city's best spots to experience an eclectic mix of cuisine, culture, and entertainment, and Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, Autograph Collection Hotels' upcoming entry and brand debut in Thailand, is nestled just moments away in a tree-lined avenue. Set to open in early September, through the hotel's exterior as well as 56 guestrooms and suites, guests can experience the rich contrasts of the designs: Elegant, timber-clad exterior juxtaposes with the natural surroundings of this leafy avenue, while the interiors feature designs of classic meets contemporary.   Melbourne: Le Méridien Melbourne   A recent addition to Australia's dynamic metropolis, Le Méridien Melbourne opened its doors in March this year, marking the brand's debut to the region.  Located on a prime location overlooking Parliament House, the hotel invites travelers to savour the moment and connect with Melbourne's famed art, culture, and culinary scene. Travelers will be delighted at the hotel's Art Deco façade with chic mid-century interiors, and marvel at the large-scale sculptural installation in the lobby that is part of Le Méridien's global Unlock Art programme, which includes a self-guided walking tour and complimentary art gallery access. From July onwards, the hotel also celebrates the return of its signature Au Soleil programme with the debut of its Rosé Sorbet, offering travelers the opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the moment with this delectable summer treat.   NATURE RETREATS   For those seeking to trade the glare of the streetlights for the glow of the moon or the chatter of commuters for the sounds of the wild, nature retreats will be ideal in providing refuge and total rejuvenation. Below are some of the best places to experience nature's splendor with Marriott Bonvoy.   Where to Stay?   Bali: The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa   Earning its title as Bali's art and culture center, Ubud is the ultimate place to enjoy rich Balinese culture, local craft scene, and calming lush forests or rice terraces. True to the destination's devotion to wellness and restoration, The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa invites guests and their families to experience a sense of well-being through the resort's signature touchpoints – from the delights of Heavenly Spa, lifestyle programs such as on-site Balinese Praying Ritual and Tri Mandala Meditation at the riverside Wellness Pavilion, and the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio. Local Balinese recipes are also elevated into healthy cuisine to reflect the brand's Eat Well pillar, available in the all-day dining restaurant Tabia and Mediterranean restaurant Tall Trees.   Japan: Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels   As one looks beyond Japan's bustling metropolis of Tokyo and Osaka, they will find sprawling countryside with hidden cultural and historical gems waiting to be discovered. First announced in 2018, Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki aims to connect curious travelers with adventure far beyond the city's bustling rhythms, while still being in accessible reach with proximity to roadside stations nationwide. From the cool summers and brilliant winters of Hokkaido to the traditional mountainous villages of Gifu and the subtropical climate of Kagoshima prefecture, Fairfield by Marriott welcomes travelers in with warm hospitality and all the modern comforts one might need for a good night's sleep, serving as the perfect bases for travelers to explore Japan's breathtaking World Heritage sites and culinary delights.

Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have joined hands in a long-term strategic licensing agreement. It sees the creation of MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, which will launch in October 2023. It covers 17 MGM resorts, representing more than 40,000 rooms in Las Vegas and other US cities. Select MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy resorts will be available for booking via Marriott including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app. All properties are expected to be available to book by the end of the year. These MGM resorts will continue to be available on MGM Resorts’ booking channels. “This historic, long-term agreement brings together two of the most trusted and iconic brands,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President MGM Resorts. “We’ve seen first-hand the strong demand from Marriott International customers through our existing relationship at The Cosmopolitan.” The agreement will also benefit members of both companies’ loyalty programs. Members of MGM Rewards will be eligible to link accounts with Marriott Bonvoy and receive select member benefits. Members of Marriott Bonvoy will be able to earn and redeem points for stays at all MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy properties. Eight MGM resorts in Las Vegas will join the Collection. These are Vdara Hotel & Spa, MGM Grand, NoMad Las Vegas, The Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, Luxor Hotel and Casino, and Excalibur. Five MGM Resorts in other. locations will also join: Borgata Atlantic City, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS, MGM Grand Detroit, MGM National Harbor, MD, and MGM Springfield, MA. Marriott also entered into a loyalty marketing agreement with BetMGM, the online gaming and sports betting joint venture; Marriott Bonvoy becomes BetMGM’s exclusive hospitality loyalty program partner in North America.