HoteliersGuild | LookBook No4 | Winter 2019/20

LookBook N04 CoutureHospitalityConcept

Winter 2019/20

e l b a n i a t s u S

CoutureHospitalityConcept

An ISSUE

that matters

x uL

y ru

CoutureHospitalityConceptWiinter2019/20

MADE-TO-MEASURE LUXURY HOTEL MANAGEMENT, REPRESENTATION, MARKETING & BRANDING

CoutureHospitalityConcept

Editorial

Luxury Sustainability Issues

L

uxury was once a domain detached from sustainability. Sumptuousness was driven to create ones own exclusive world. However, finally there seems to be a significant shift from consumers and travellers living in their own luxury world to now being focused on being an agents of change for our one and only world.

Our guests are becoming increasingly conscious of their role on the global stage, from how they travel to how they choose their hotels, be it for business or for pleasure. For hoteliers it is more and more becoming a priority to address key global issues in their operations, from climate change to the sourcing of their products. “If the travel industry is a country, it is the 5th largest polluter of carbon in the world today, contributing 8% to global carbon emissions. What does this say about us – the operators, advisors and owners of properties, vehicles and services in the hospitality, tourism and aviation sector of the travel industry?" says our renowned colleague Onno Poortier, a HoteliersGuild Ambassador and Founder of the itMustBeNOW initiative.

A shift in our behaviour is imperative:1.3 billion people not having access to clean water! Today, more carbon dioxide is in the atmosphere than at any point in the last 800 years! Thus, luxury hospitality must play a critical role in helping to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals and we appeal once more to our colleagues around the world to finally get on board and to implement robust sustainable strategies! Otherwise, and according to the UN, the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles.

Frank M. Pfaller President HoteliersGuild

Let’s use our joint capabilities to increase global environmental and social standards, and to play a key role in promoting a cultural shift!

PROTAGONISTS of this Issue CHRISTOPHER stafford

CEO of 137 Pillars, a Luxury Boutique Hotel Brand with original hotel at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai and 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok - member of HoteliersGuild and supporter of Sustainable Luxury.

FRANK THOMA

Founder, of the Kokotuku Sanctuary Consortium that was formed in 2015 to preserve the area’s unique environment and wildlife through responsible stewardship of the land and seas.

Christopher & farina Kingsley

HoteliersGuild member & Founders of the Lampi Foundation which was founded to help fund social welfare and conservation projects in and around the Lampi Island Marine National Park located in the Myeik Archipelago, Myanmar.

Carsten RATH HoteliersGuild member & Supporting Partner, renowned keynote speaker and author on the topics of service and leadership excellence, with an essay on Sustainable Luxury.

Onno & Alexa Poortier

is a long time Honorary Ambassador with HoteliersGuild, a legendary colleague and former President of the Peninsula Group & Leela Palaces & Resorts, fighting to combat climate change through responsible travel.

CONCEIVED TO CELEBRATE BRILLIANCE IN OUR INDUSTRY Dedicated to people who are making outstanding contributions to the global luxury Lebensart. Inspiring and educating a new generation of discerning hoteliers and exclusive service providers.

HallOfFame

Content

80 | 81 dreams of a new eco-luxury destinations coming true 16 | 37

38 | 51

THEALPINA GSTAAD A FORCE FOR GOOD

KOKOTUKUSANCTUARY INDONESIA WITH A VISION

A Sustainable Luxury Operating Concept For People and For Planet

to achieve long time prosperity for Kokotuku by implementing a balanced model for luxury travel and conservation

54 | 67

70 | 81

LUXURYFRONTIERS TENTED CAMPS

137PILLARS ESSAY

Has built a legacy in Africa developing tented camps and ecolodges for renowned companies.

By our new HoteliersGuild member Christopher Stafford

84 | 99

102 | 123

WAALE FOUNDATION

CUISINE&BUGS INSECTS IN THE BACKYARD & BLACK ANT

A sustainability initiative by our latest member, Chris Kingsley

Content

126 A Portrait of one of the world’s indisputable and preeminent leaders in luxury hospitality industry

Reto wittwer 156 | 157 The ‘NEW’ Raffles, Singapore

NOBLECAUSES Giving back HoteliersGuild in support of member initiatives

154 | 155

ESSAY Carsten Rath In support of our efforts to combat climate change - no more excuses, Hoteliers!

Title: The Alpina Gstaad

Alexa Poortier of NOW

134 | 151

B

E

Y

O

N

thealpinagstaad.ch

D

THE PRIVATE SOCIETY FOR DISCERNING HOTELIERS Affiliation by Invitation only

HoteliersGuild

The Registry CollectionÂŽ program gives owners of luxury timeshare, fractional, and other resort real estate the opportunity to exchange their resort home for vacation experiences at unparalleled resorts around the world.

The Registry Collection program has approximately 200 properties accessible for exchange or under development around the world.* As the industry leader in providing exchange services and VIP travel concierge services with more than 14 years of succes we can provide an added benefit during the sales process of your luxury offering that can help set you apart from your competition.

Whether you are a experienced developer or a new entrant in the luxury segment, learn how your business can become part of something extraordinary.

Learn more about The Registry Collection exchange program and support services.

Call +1.407.226.8430 or email Gregg.Anderson@rci.com.

Š2017 RCI, LLC. All rights reserved.

timeless legacy, arabian hospitaltiy Discover a captivating destination on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, where esteemed heritage blends with Arabian sophistication.

Indulge in the extraordinary with the signature St. Regis Butler Service and seduce your senses at the legendary Remède Spa. Savor the sweet scents of shisha on terraces overlooking the Arabian Gulf and soak up the sun at the Nation Riviera Beach Club.

for details, please visit: stregisabudhabi.com

o

H

sustain luxuryable

TE

Let’s use our joint power to increase global environmental and social standards, and to play a key role in promoting a cultural shift!

L

S

Luxury was once a domain detached from sustainability. Now, a shift in our behavior is imperative.

Timeless

&

Modern

A Force for Good, For People and For Planet Overlooking the Bernese Oberland peaks and set in 20 hectares of park grounds, The Alpina Gstaad is one of the most exceptional hotels in Switzerland.

It's not just the location, superb facilities, award-winning cuisine or intuitive service that make this hotel so special. Since opening in 2012, The Alpina Gstaad has, through passion and innovation, put sustainability at the forefront. It has developed the highest standards of luxury and wellbeing, with the environment, natural resources and local community front of mind.

Authenticity meets Swiss sustainable luxury from the outset, in the hotel’s design. The Alpina Gstaad was built sympathetic to its history and location,

flksadjflks

to preserve its originality and traditions. Consequently, the hotel embraces

Sustainable Luxury its alpine setting but with a contemporary take on traditional Swiss chalet style.

Built mostly by local tradesmen, the façade and entry tunnel are lined with hand chiselled Ringgenberg limestone from the area, while Turbach stone adds rustic charm to fireplaces and entry waterfalls. Local companies were employed to produce the hotel woodwork, curtains and lay the carpets.

Its 56 beautifully designed rooms and suites are all sustainably built and furnished with alpine comforts and crafts. Classically carved ceilings and timber-clad walls contrast with full-height windows that look out over the mountains. Modern art fromsome of the world’s leading contemporary artists including Jacqueline Humphries, Pierre Huyghe, Wade Guyton, and Nicole Eisenman, who is one of the standout stars of this year’s Venice Biennale is on display.

Type to enter text

W

Dreams

ild

Across the board, The Alpina Gstaad is raising the bar on accountability and transparency

Working continuously to reduce its impact

around sustainability, and is certified Silver by

and carbon emissions, the whole hotel is as

E a r t h C h e c k , t h e w o r l d ’s l e a d i n g

efficient as possible. Sensor-driven air

benchmarking and sustainability certification

conditioning and heating feature smart-device

provider with GSTC accreditation and ASI

shut-down technology, and guests are

audits.

transported by electric Tesla vehicles.

Notably, it is the first hotel in Switzerland to

Wellbeing is a central pillar of The Alpina

become a member of the NOW Force for

Gstaad, which is home to a serene Six Senses

Good Alliance - an affiliation of extraordinary

Spa. Inspired by Asian traditions, the spa

places to stay that provide a sustainable travel

offers world-renowned treatments from

experience. All hotel members of NOW

product houses including Dr Burgener, ila and

display the NOW Sustainability Trust Icon and

Biologique Recherche.

take responsibility for their impact on communities and the environment.

Dreams Six Senses Spa

G

uests can indulge in indoor and outdoor pools, as well as two

Jacuzzis, a Himalayan Salt Grotto, saunas complete with colour therapy technology, a hammam, hot and cold plunge pools, and a relaxation area with sensory pods. There’s also a yoga studio, fitness centre and juice bar.

Outdoor alpine relaxation is positively encouraged too. In summer, hike or bike in nature and fill the lungs with fresh mountain air, then tuck into a picnic with sensational views. In winter, take to the 220km of ski runs or try winterbiking, tobogganing, ice skating and snowshoe hiking.

Exclusive local experiences can be arranged by the hotel, which give back positively to nearby communities and help to preserve regional traditions. Meet local producers to try delicious cheeses, learn the art of Scherenschnitte (paper cutting), or visit Alpenruhe to see pottery in motion.

Food lovers can indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine at MEGU (contemporary Japanese) and Sommet (gourmet fine dining) restaurants, while authentic Swiss fare such as raclette and fondue, is served up at the StĂźbli. The hotel fruits, vegetables and dairy products are purchased locally, and the meat comes from the village butcher.

By helping to protect its natural resources, supporting local producers, businesses and suppliers, as well as minimizing waste and pollution, The Alpina Gstaad is not only reducing its environmental impact, but raising awareness among its associates, guests and communities.

This trailblazing approach provides a strong sense of identity, differentiating the hotel’s luxury offering.

The Alpina Gstaad’s efforts around sustainability serve the interests of both current and future generations, and will no doubt constitute the foundation for long lasting success.

W

Six Senses Spa Suite

ild

“Food lovers can indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine at MEGU (left - contemporary Japanese) and Sommet (gourmet fine dining) restaurants, while authentic Swiss fare such as raclette and fondue, is served up at the Stübli.”

S

wiss Stübli”…..serves local delicacies

Alpine Hideaway A Truly sophisticated

Discretion, privacy artistry and tradition living together harmoniously

Six Senses Spa

Wine Cellar

Junior Suite

an iconic alpine experience

more than a place to stay in the alps, it is a new icon for g s ta a d c o m b i n i n g s w i s s tradition an d thoughtful luxury. the result goes beyond swiss stereotypes to create a fresh interpretation of alpine chic.

Type to enter text

CoutureHospitalityConcept | featuring KOKOTUKU

a new sustainable destination

a m e

h t in

2

Flores Indonesia

g n i k a

K O K O T U K U

…

or f alli ng out o w ith f lov B e ali LOOKING DEEPER

WELCOME TO PARADISE AS NATURE INTENDED.

LOOKIN INTO KOK

Look Deep Into Nature, And Then You Will Understand Everything Better.

- ALBERT EINSTEIN -

NG DEEP KOTUKU.

LOOK DEEP INTO NATU - ALBERT EINSTEIN -

T

HE AREA of ko kot u k u i s s p r e a d ov e r almost 1200 hectares o f v i r g i n l a n d. I t i n c lu d e s t h e two majestic islands of median and sea i. the area is home to the long-tailed macaque, f ly i n g f o x , wat e r buffalo, and wild boar. and bird lie the paradise-flycatcher, megapode and drongo. t h e wa r m c r y sta l clear waters are home to sea turtles, manta rays, barracuda, lion f i s h , c low n f i s h , starfish and dugong. this paradise really exists.

By Invitation Only

Over the past five years a group of likeminded friends have purchased over 200 hectares of waterfront land on the Kokotuku Peninsula in the West Flores/Komodo region called The Kokotuku Sanctuary.

T h e I n d o n e s i a n Gov e r n m e n t designated this tropical paradise as one of the new touristic destinations and has built a new international airport, roads and more infrastructures to realize this outcome.

by design CONSERVATION

Manifesto “TO PRESERVE KOKOTUKU F R OM T H E N EG AT I V E EFFECTS OF MASS TOURISM! A 25 YEAR SPATIAL AND LAND USAGE PLAN IS IN PLACE, LIMITING TOURISTIC D E V E LO PM E N T TO A MAXIMUM OF ONLY 5% DENSITY FOR KOKOTUKU.”

Fun. Prosperity.

CONSERVATION.

With a vision to achieve long time prosperity for kokotuku by implementing a balanced model for luxury travel and conservation that will only enhance the natural beauty and become the envy of indonesia and south-east-asia.

Founder Frank Thoma & family

a force for good. together

INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT IS NEEDED TO ACHIEVE the CONSERVATION GOALS. they ARE HUMBLY INVITING CONSERVATION EXPERTS, CELEBRITIES AND LEADERS THAT SHARE THE SAME IDEAS TO BECOME A ‘FRIEND OF KOKOTUKU.’

The Consortium’s Masterplan outlays the highest priority to designate forestry preserves, restoration areas, electric-mobility zones, no- boating perimeters, mooring only policies, catch-and-release fishing practices, and extremely strict design requirements of all living developments.

W

“

e have used the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia as our inspiration. A luxury destination that is as beautiful today as it was 50 years ago. This is our vision for Kokotuku. A sanctuary in which a group of hand picked hotels and venues create a unique destination and community while minimizing damage to the environment, creating employment opportunities that are ecologically sustainable, and providing a working model for responsible development and protection for Indonesia as a whole. “

Furthermore, a new and growing demographic of 'luxury adventure travelers' seek exotic destinations which offer life-changing experiences in pristine environments. These travellers want to experience local culture and cuisine while staying in tastefully designed, holistic accommodations. It is our belief that the opportunity is ripe for Flores and Kokotuku, and the time to act is now. “

Frank Thoma

CoutureHospitalityConcept | featuring KOKOTUKU

luxury frontiers tented camps “The future of the high-end luxury business is in enhancing brand reputation through authentic leadership in social and environmental responsibility…The average daily rate for Luxury Frontiers’ ‘room under canvas’ can enhance the position of the hotel and add mystique to the destination.”

- Herve Hummer President & COO Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

nature approved & light-on-theearth For situations in which non-conventional materials and practices and renewable energy sources need to meet natural environments.

Design.

Experiential lodging.

Innovators and storytellers.

Luxury Frontiers prides itself as an international expert in the design and development of experiential resorts and lodges. Beyond today’s notion of luxury, they seamlessly integrate sustainability and sophistication into iconic hospitality concepts

L

uxury Frontiers has built a name for itself as one of the world’s leaders in luxury eco-resort design and development.

Having partnered with brands like Four Seasons, B elmond, and Wilderness Safaris on luxury tented camps, treetop suites, and other sustainable, light-on-earth lodgings, the trailblazing company is shaking up the hospitality industry one “hotel” at a time.

PROJECT-BELMOND-EAGLE-ISLAND-LODGE

HOME-STRUCTURE-BUILDS_LUXURY-SUITES_

PROJECT-BELMOND-EAGLE-ISLAND-LODGE

Perhaps no other property best captures the firm’s groundbreaking approach and sustainability-oriented core values more than the forthcoming Mdluli Safari Lodge, a first-of-its-kind camp whose community consciousness and environmental stewardship is creating a model for the “new luxury” in Africa and beyond.

Luxury Frontiers has built a Africa, where principal and director Graeme Labe has spent part of 30 years designing and

legacy in managing the greater developing

tented camps and eco-lodges for internationally renowned travel companies like Abercrombie & Kent / Sanctuary R e t re at s and O r i e nt - E x pre ss ( now Belmond) Safaris. In 2011, Luxur y Frontiers’ CEO and founder, Luca Franco teamed up with Labe to introduce a fullservice design firm that specialized in lighton-e ar t h hospit a lity s olutions and alternative building methodologies. And just like that, Franco’s vision to export Africa’s adventure lodgings to the world was born.

“I firmly believe that we can all build without destroying our environment�

Abu Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana, operated by Wilderness Safaris

T

he ultimate luxury is s p a c e , an d Abu i s located in a 180 000hectare (445 000-acre) private concession in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, one of the world’s most important wetland ecosystems. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wildlife stronghold of global significance (and home to huge herds of elephant), the Delta was t he natura l choice for t his pioneering elephant conservation project.

The Okavango covers an area of in excess of 15 000km2 (5 800 square miles) and is made up of a mosaic of river channels, lagoons, islands and floodplains.

The are a’s divers e habit ats, abundant water and plentiful natural vegetation offer an ideal home for a great variety of wildlife but also for the Abu Herd – elephants that have been rescued from exploitative situations or saved from harm, and which is the aim to ultimately introduce them into the Okavango

But Franco wanted to do more than just dream up unconventional lodgings outside Africa—he wanted to center designs around transformational guest journeys. Sensing a shift toward more experiential travel, the Italian-born entrepreneur conceived a comprehensive design firm that leveraged the skills and strength of its employees (more than half of whom have past experience in lodge operations) to offer technical design, experiential design, and operational knowhow, in addition to spaces that delivered on style and sustainability. Because of its versatile, multi-faceted team, Luxury Frontiers is able to offer its clients a turnkey solution, including architecture, interior design, experiential programming, procurement, and project management.

This year, Luxury Frontiers is slated to debut its first project in the Americas: Nayara Tented Camp, in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region. The team is also behind the private island project at the W Maldives and expects to announce a highlyanticipated project in the U.S..

W Maldives

D

espite its increasingly international profile, Luxury Frontiers is proud of its strong African roots and the many projects it has opened there this year, from Botswana’s reborn Wilderness Safaris Kings Pool to Zambia’s Puku Ridge. Now, Luxury Frontiers is preparing for the debut of the inspiring Mdluli Safari Lodge, whose sustainable ethos, design-forward aesthetic, and community commitment is setting the gold standard for hospitality

Luxury Frontiers has the privilege to serve as the architect and interior designer for Mdluli Safari Lodge, a luxury tented safari experience located in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, set to open in October 2019. Ideally situated within the park, the contemporary African safari lodge puts guests within striking distance of Africa’s Big 5 (elephants, rhinos, buffalos, leopards, and lions). The new lodge will be operated by Tourvest and will offer travelers 50 luxury en-suite tents, each sleeping four and outfitted with air conditioning, private patios, and indoor as well as outdoor showers. Other features include a lakeside restaurant and a bar, an observation deck with sweeping 360-degree views, two pools, a gym, spa, outdoor dining ‘bomas,’ and conference facilities.

F

or the individual accommodations, no expense was spared; each of the tents are nestled among trees and perched on stilts to provide guests unparalleled views of the wildlife-rich plains. Inside, natural materials (canvas, timber) and a color palette of creams, browns, and greens bring the outdoors in, while mosquito netting and rustic bar carts evoke the romance of a bygone era.

Together, these elements create an environment that announces: “Welcome to Africa!”

L

uxury Frontiers conceived the lodge as a place where guests from all over the world could come together for an authentic African safari experience. One of the camp’s defining features is a spectacular Marula tree, which canopies over the lodge’s central meeting area, establishing a sense of place and community. The layout of buildings around this majestic tree pays homage to the traditional ‘lekgotla,’ a meeting place for village assemblies and leaders

Getting Back to Nature As with every Luxury Frontiers property, Mdulili Safari Lodge was designed to protect and preserve the integrity of its natural environment. This was achieved through the use of environmentally responsible materials and construction methods, with an emphasis on local materials and labor. For example, approximately 1,850 square meters of bamboo composite decking was used, saving an equivalent of nearly 185,000 square meters of deforested hardwood. And the use of recycled PVC plastic in the flooring contributed to the recycling of 4.9 tons of PVC plastics. What’s more, the off-the-grid lodge is to be 100% solar powered, further reducing the property’s carbon footprint.

Leave Some Goodness Behind Beyond the project’s environmental efforts, Mdluli Safari Lodge is also investing in its community by being developed in partnership with the Mdluli Royal Family and Community. Through this joint effort, the lodge has created a one-of-a-kind, never-before-implemented financial structure that integrates and benefits the community, Kruger National Park authorities, the developer, and the lodge operator. Over the course of a two-decade battle over land restitution, the Mdluli

community, Kruger National Park authorities, the developer, and the lodge operator. Over the course of a two-decade battle over land restitution, the Mdluli Community has reclaimed ownership of the 2,100 acres (or 850 hectares) of land from which they were forcibly removed during South Africa’s apartheid. Thanks to the lodge’s investment in the community — which includes improvements to schools, roads, and clinics, as well as job-training and employment opportunities — the Mdluli Community will be able to share their rich culture and protect their valuable natural resources for many generations to come.

It is Luxury Frontiers’ hope that the Mdluli Safari Lodge will serve as a blueprint for best practices in resort development projects all over the world. In an era of transformational travel, it is a belief central to Luxury Frontiers’ mission that a hotel’s span of influence and awareness must extend past its guests’ experiences.

Rather, it must reach far beyond property lines to safeguard the community and environment’s transformative potential well into the future.

ABU CAMP - Botswana | featured in HoteliersGuild’s LookBook No 4

137 pillars hotel & residences Bangkok | Thailand

‘’An ideal Address for both, Business or P leasure ”

“BEST LUXURY 5 STAR HOTELS AND SERVICED APARTMENTS IN BANGKOK”

4

E S S A Y

My inspiration and my roots in hospitality started as a 16 year old bell boy at the Park Avenue Hotel in Goteborg, Sweden in 1972. A privately multi generational self proprietor run hotel at the time – I was enthralled by an era in which flowers for the opera, silver trays and white gloves, whistles and tailor made “ I t h a s o f t e n uniforms, and gueridons were more important than ADR or been said that RevPar or other such mechanizations of the hospitality is one emerging American Hotel giants.

We drew baths for guests, of the two oldest we delivered mail at midnight, we polished shoes by businesses on hand until they were mirror like, we polished brass planet earth.” rails all day and night, we i n s p e c t e d q u a l i t y, fingernails, hair, breath – we were elegant, we were inspired luxury – we worked with love and passion in ever y moment. This is the era I want to return to – I miss it and I love it !! One where grace, elegance, trust, passion, energy, class, honor and curation where daily affairs !!

CHRISTOPHER STAFFORD Chief Operating Officer 137 Pillars

It has often been said that hospitality is one of the two oldest businesses on planet earth. From the era of the Caravanserai’s and the famous Silk Road as well Desert Oases, ports around the globe, meeting and resting points north, south, west and east hospitality fulfills so many of our needs from rest and relaxation, to meeting our fellow human beings, to being a crossroads of cultures, a venue for historic signings and events, a place to experience solitude or activity, sadness and happiness – yes Hospitality is global and eternal.

In this technological age the historic 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai was crafted by its owners and managers launching on December 23rd, 2011 in the historic Wat Ket area of Chiang Mai. A legend was born – and its reputation grew quickly for its connection to the old House built in 1889 for the Borneo Trading Company, the Leonowens, Rajah Brooke, and Bain families were central to this part of early timber industry in the Kingdom of Siam. A hotel c omp any w a s crafted from this and we saw clearly that the strong

connection we made to Chiang Mai was fundamental to our success in establishing our luxury brand management company 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts in September 2015 and we went on from there to establish the 137 Pillars Suites and Residences Bangkok – a feast for the senses, an architects paradise with luxury in the heart of the Thonglor district of Bangkok ( the Rodeo Drive of Bangkok !!)

In the bustling heart of Bangkok we have crafted experiences such as the Private Art Tour – themed events and bespoke Afternoon Teas. The new 137 Pillars Suites and Residences with its magnificent views of this great city is testament to the vision of the Wongphanlert family in developing quality, taste and style in an otherwise very commercial hotel era. Bespoke, sensitive and fertile in its imagination 137 Pillars Hotels and Resorts is a dream coming true.

We have crafted more unique and real adventures for our guests with the advent of the Tales and Trails of the Teak Wallahs in Northern Thailand. This connection to history is vital for our luxury brand – and combined with our Nitra Spirit Sanctuaries which are under development to cater a world where we seek less stress, where time is of the essence and connection is needed more than ever before. Our team have crafted with inspiration from Wellness Guru Roger Moore a wellness ‘ toolkit ‘ that can be individualized. Luxury Hospitality today is about using technology and not letting it rule us – the reason of its existence is to make our lives richer, easier and more fulfilling and our aim with Nitra Spirit Sanctuaries is to “Our aspiration is to allow for each guest to find his or her space for discovery of a b e t t e r w a y e m o t i o n a l l y, sensually and physically. The combine traditional intention being to give more balance in a world out of luxury with well trained balance – rest and rejuvenation for the body, mind and spirit. a m b a s s a d o r s a n d For this the luxury boutique hotel is ideally curated.

Our aspiration is to combine t r ai n e d amb a ss a d ors an d and within each venue to create wellbeing. I sincerely believe of our forefathers of all nations search of prosperity, connection own legends.

cleanly delivered to the world and within each venue to create a spirit sanctuary”

traditional luxury with well cleanly delivered to the world a spirit sanctuary – a place for this would be music to the ears who travelled the Silk Road in and in the process curated their

So 137 Pillars is marching on with an international expansion plan to include other Asian destinations, however also to bring its concept of life balanced and connected luxury hospitality to Europe, Australasia and the South Pacific. I started my senior management career as a General Manager of the Bali Hai Moorea – I always loved the exotic mystique of Tahiti and I believe the luxury traveler is ready for the 137 Pillars South Pacific properties to launch.

When the next chapter of this essay is written – we will have established 9 hotels and be well on our way to building the legend I dreamed off as a 16 year old bellman on below minimum wage in 1972.

Warmest regards

Christopher E. Stafford

U

Villa privacy

ltimate

B

athrooms with a view at the SUKOTHAI SUITES

A Bathroom with a View

D

definitely of the coolest hotels

in Asia. 137 Pillars Suites Bangkok is a part of the Small Luxury Hotels and is a city retreat that’s located in Sukhumvit, Bangkok.

Only 34 exquisitely appointed suites on high floors, staffed by butlers with old-school Thai hospitality. Uninterrupted 360degree views from its rooftop infinity pool and bar.

Comprising a blend of warm Thai design and Bangkok modern flair, 137 Pillars houses everything a busy traveller would need. Guests of the suites get exclusive access to the Leonowens Club, where you can receive breakfast, afternoon tea and drinks all day, and of course as the piece de resistance – one of the most outstanding infinity pools in Thailand, perched on the rooftop with 360-degree views of Bangkok.

highlight is the high-ceilinged and striking Nimitr Fine Dining Restaurant on the 27th T hefloorculinary which serves exceptional Thai cuisine with western twists for lunch and dinner.

T he one and only truly fully rooftop infinity pool with a breathtaking view of the city of the city exclusive for suite patrons.

137 Pillars Hotel | featured in HoteliersGuild’s LookBook No 4

An Island Unto uched a paradise found just 55 nautical miles west of burma’s mainland A retreat that not only sustains and protects the Lampi Marine National Park, it also benefits and transforms the lives of the surrounding communities

Quite a

e r o on m

A secret well kept

in the middle of nowhere

It seems that Burma’s political isolation has a somewhat lesser effect on the success of Wa Ale. It’s new a slick. A collection of tasteful safari tents, fitted easily into the lush surrounding jungle. On this 4 hectares private island adrift in the Andaman Sea, nature is honored rather than disturbed by the retreat, as 20 percent of Wa Ale’s annual net profits are being provided to its conservation mission, the Lamp Foundation.

Time has stood still in this this wild corner of South-East Asia. The 11 smart tented villas are set amidst ancient fig trees, and the tree houses, hovering in the luxuriant rain forest are, of course, built from reclaimed wood.

Kingsized four-poster beds, draped by mosquito nets, with open-air bathrooms and outdoor showers.

The restaurant ser ves a fresh, healthy fusion of Southeast Asian & Mediterranean cuisine, with a fare of BBQ’s seafood, slow-roasted lamb and spicy papaya salads.

A Sanctuary, where Barefoot Luxury Meets Bohemian Chic

“Intended to leave a minimal green foot print, Wa Ale was constructed using local raw materials and is the ultimate in comfort and design�

“Through eco-tourism, Wa Ale pledges to annually donate 20% of net profits and 2% of room revenues from Wa Ale to the Lampi Foundation�

Beach Villa Tent

I

ntended to leave a minimal green foot print, Wa Ale was constructed using local raw materials and is the ultimate in comfort and design.

THE LAMPI FOUNDATION EVERYTHING THE WORLD NEEDS NOW Wa Ale, a resort that not only sustains and protect the Lampi National Park, but it also benefits the lives of the surrounding communities.

Christopher Kingsley Founder & CEO

Farina Kingsley Co-Founder

Christopher Kingsley has been working in Myanmar since 1995 and is the owner of Wa Ale Island Resort in Myanmar. He is also the founder of Brownstone Furniture, Inc. and Brownstone Upholstery, Inc. and co-owner of Kingsley-Bate, Inc.

Farina Kingsley is a culinary instructor, food consultant, and published cookbook author.

She is Co-Founder of Wa Ale Island Resort in Myanmar and Director of Food and Beverage for Wa Ale Island Resort.

T

he Lampi Foundation was founded by Christopher and Farina Kingsley to help fund social welfare and conservation projects in and around the Lampi Island Marine National Park located in the Myeik Archipelago, Myanmar. The Lampi Foundation supports turtle conservation, coral restoration, boat purchases for the Forestry Department and social welfare projects in nearby fishing villages.

The Foundation is funded through efforts of the Wa Ale Island Resort and other partner contributions including Global Medical Volunteers and The Wildlife Conservation Society.

Through eco-tourism, Wa Ale Island Resort pledges to annually donate 20% of net profits and 2% of room revenue to the Lampi Foundation. It is Wa Ale Island Resort's commitment to help preserve and protect the Lampi Marine National Park under the guidance of the Myanmar government with the hope to set a precedent for future tourism projects in the Myeik Archipelago.

Working with the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Forest Department under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation of the Union of Myanmar, the Foundation built the first sea turtle hatchery in Lampi Marine National Park.

The Lampi Foundation has continually provided supplies and equipment to the village schools on both the villages of Salet Galet and Ma Kyone Galet. Free English language instruction will soon be provided to the local school children.

Lending a helping hand.

From Coral Protection to Early Childhood Education, to Medical Assistance to Local Fishing Villages and Local Labor Provision

passion FOR SUSTAINABLE LUXURY | AFFILIATION BY INVITATION ONLY

C

U Insects provide food at

low environmental cost, contribute positively to livelihoods, and

play a fundamental role in nature & in our future diet .

S

I

N

I E

Thitiwat “Mai” Tantragarn Chef at INSECTS IN THE BACKYARD, Bangkok “Even though people have been eating insects in Isan for years, the world is just starting to pay attention to the idea that this could be a viable food source”

W

ere it not for the cocoa-dusted silkworms garnishing the dish, an unknowing diner might never realise there was anything out of the ordinary about this tiramisu. There may be only three dainty insects visible but 30% of the luscious mascarpone cream in the confection is powdered pupae, which add a barely detectable bitterness that harmonizes with the espresso-saturated sponge fingers. The same goes for the innocuous-looking ravioli stuffed with mascarpone, Provençal herbs and water beetle flesh, which tastes like crab.

“Water beetles are big – if you saw one you probably wouldn’t want to eat it,” says Bangkok chef Thitiwat “Mai” Tantragarn, a veteran of local finedining restaurants such as D’Sens and Medici. In Thailand’s northeastern Isan region, water beetles are fried and salted, then scoffed like six-legged popcorn. Yet the only time you’re likely to see them in Bangkok is on touristy Khao San Road. The team at Insects in the Backyard, which recently opened in the city’s new ChangChui creative complex, hopes to rid these arthropods of their stigma. “I want this to be accessible,” says Mai. “I’m not trying to make scary food.”

He insists this isn’t a gimmick, but an earnest attempt to find value in something many here look down on. After all, some of the world’s top chefs have championed similar concepts, including René Redzepi at Noma in Copenahagen and Alex Atala at São Paulo’s DOM, who have both has used ants to spice up a dish.

“Even though people have been eating insects in Isan for years, the world is just starting to pay attention to the idea that this could be a viable food source,” he says. The ecobenefits are myriad: insects more efficiently convert plants into protein than livestock and produce far less methane gas. In the future, he hopes to move beyond bugs to experiment with certain types of seaweed and other sources of amino acids. “Let’s face it, in 100 years or so, our current sources of protein won’t be enough to feed all the planet’s human beings.”

DesignHighlights

Tiramisu with Crispy Caramelised Silkworms

Grasshopper Bisque Risotto with Seafood Sun dried Tomatoes

Seafood Lasagna with fresh House made Tomato Sauce

Crab and Water Beetle Ravioli with a Turmeric Saffron Sauce

Pan fried Scallops with Silk Worms

Cheese cake with Bamboo Caterpillars

Wingless long horned Grasshopper Risotto and Herbs

Cream of chestnut Soup with Quail and Bamboo Caterpillar

It’s actually believed that they can

FLY

CoutureHospitalityConcept

Ohla Hotel, Barcelona, Spain

Hotel Balzac, Paris, France

The Beaumont Hotel, London, England, UK

Covo dei Saraceni, Positano, Italy

It’s a big world. What do you Prefer?

650 hotels. 85 countries. An infinite number of unique experiences.

Explore the entire portfolio at PreferredHotels.com.

Be prepared for the unexpected “Grasshopper-crusted shrimp tacos with a side of scorpion guacamole anyone?”

I

nsects are the star at this cocktail lounge East Village hangout, from the jumbo ant painting on the wall to bug-engrained tiles to grasshopper mezcal bisque.

Chef Mario Hernandez’s thoughts on eating insects are that we already eat lots of squeamish stuff — brains, caviar, gelatin, foie gras, hearts, pâté, testicles, and tongues — and that getting diners to devour such fare is just a matter of presentation. Perhaps that’s why Black Ant — where the signature dishes include grasshopper tacos and crushed-ant guacamole — is so intimately lit, or rather unlit (nightclub goggles are in effect, and nightclub vibes). Or why a dinner can include half a dozen different kinds of tortillas. Every table is overflowing not just with authentic mostly Oaxacan dishes, but also the kind of adventurous (and amorous) camaraderie usually seen on spring break getaways. It helps that the cocktail menu is so damn sabroso. Especially those grasshopper tacos. The menu isn’t all buggy, of course; rabbit enchiladas, por ejemplo, served in the hypnotic spice of chilhuacle chile salsa. (NewYorkMag) “Checkmark-eats” describes it like this: ‘Bugs.

Some people squash them, some people scream at them and some people eat them. However, don’t be too afraid as at the end of the day The Black Ant is just a popular Mexican restaurant in the East Village with one of the best Smoky Jalapeno Margaritas to ever touch your lips. News flash: a majority of the dishes do not have ants or crickets in them, and the ingredients are fresh and familiar as can be. The dark bar area and low cocktail tables at the entrance make The Black Ant a perfect spot for a first date.

Margaritas, chips and guac plus a busy restaurant are ingre dients that are pretty hard to hate.

Frijoles Pulpo Octopus, yerba de conejo infused black beans, chistorra, habanero, avocado

Ceviche de Callo Scallops, prickly pear, pied de vache, avocado, calamari ink, chicharrรณn

Hernandez’ unique and intriguing resto the Black Ant in NYC’s East Village delivers contemporary Mexican dishes similar to what you may find in the lively Mexico City. For those with an adventurous pallet, Hernandez serves up dishes like Croquetas de Chapulin (grasshopper croquettes) and Perrito Pulpo, a spicy grilled octopus dish served with sal de gusano (worm-salt) dusted fries. Hernandez’ unique and flavorful spontaneity coupled with his skillful culinary artistry create the ideal haven for New Yorkers craving a little wanderlust.

Frijoles Pulpo Octopus, yerba de conejo infused black beans, chistorra, habanero, avocado

MADE TO MEASURE CONCEPTS & MANAGEMENT FOR DEVELOPERS OF LUXRY RETREATS

CoutureHospitalityConcept

P

o Reto Wittwer HĂ´telier

R

T

Rait

T

“

HERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT GUEST PROFILES: THE OLD MONEY, THE NEW MONEY AND THOSE WHO COME TO A LUXURY HOTEL FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS, SUCH AS A WEDDING OR BIRTHDAY. THE OLD MONEY ARRIVES IN THE AUDI, WANTS TO BE TREATED DISCREETLY AND DOES NOT WANT THIS AMERICAN "HOW ARE YOU TODAY" SERVICE BECAUSE THEY DON'T WANT EVERYONE IN THE LOBBY TO KNOW WHO THEY ARE AFTER TWO MINUTES.” At HoteliersGuild, we all know and respect Reto Wittwer as a strong influencer and highlevel decision maker. No wonder he was voted amongst the Top 50 most influential Swiss and sits on the advisory board of the Swiss Hotel Management School in Lausanne.

Today, Reto acts as the Founder & Chairman of Smart Hospitality Solution (SHS). SHS currently holds 3 hotel brands with international developments under process in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and South America.

Before that, in his last position as CEO of Kempinski Hotel Group, he transformed Europe oldest luxury hotel management company into a unique luxury hotel brand under the philosophy of individuality during his 20 years of leadership.

As a Swiss and French national, Reto graduated from the renowned Swiss Hotel Management School in Lausanne. Following his studies, he has gathered extensive experience in the international hotel industry and rapidly rose the ladder of success by taking on his first GM position at aged 30 years. With more than 180 countries visited, fluent in 7 different languages, this gives him a mastery in knowledge of know-how and talent recognition.

In addition to being Chairman position at SHS, Mr Wittwer serves as Chairman of the World Tourism Forum Lucerne and as a Tourism Advisor to Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan.

Q

Pick one word that describes you?

A

Entrepreneurial

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from this interview?

I am very compassionate in engaging with young talents, motivating them towards the opportunities of hospitality and service sector which employs 10% of the world’s population.

After so long in our business, what’s your motivation still?

Curiosity What was your greatest professional achievement?

I have led three world renown hotel brands as CEO who were either private or public firms. I cannot recall any of my peers who had the same privilege.

Any advice for your previous company, Kempinski? No answer expected but sure much appreciated! (smile!)

In 20 years as CEO, I have had a fantastic time at Kempinski and met many great people. I wish them the best of luck and success. r s’ p nci Fra

Which two hotel companies outside your own do you admire most?

Admiration is a quite a board term when assessing all the players in the industry. I guess it is fair to say I respect the all the ones in the market who is professional and stay true to integrity of the industry.

La Inn Isla

v pri ret

sec

in nd isla ate

nia ago Pat

Blazon, by definition, implies ‘denoting a shield’ where our management philosophy complements this statement by protecting the hotels and owners from the uniformity of the industry bringing each hotel’s unique proposition to the market.

& nd sla et i ecr

cis’

In today’s hospitality world, more than 90% of all the hotels do not have any chain affiliation. This interesting fact has several reasons but the most significant one is that the hotel owners’ skepticism towards the large international brands who are more focused on brand management rather than applying the true essence of hotel management. Uli and I have seen this gap and decided to put together a module that would have three main values; a hotel management company that is ownercentric, market relevant and offers true hospitality craftsmanship.

te s iva

n Fra

What inspired both of you to start the Blazon Hotels & what’s the meaning behind the brand name?

What’s the differentiating management philosophy of Blazon?

Our management philosophy provides around the clock of all hotel services where guests can take advance of without limitations set by the standard hotel operations such as 24-hour spa and gym, extended in-room dining menu where guests do not have to wait for the restaurant’s operating hours.

We strongly emphasis on the vital role of Concierge in our operations, which in today’s hospitality scene has lost its true meaning. Blazon Hotels Concierge stands true to its meaning by acting as the custodian of the hotel, your caretaker whatever the need would be.

Where uniformed and one-dimensional operation became the norm by large hotel companies, Blazon Hotels believes in refined craftsmanship in all our services that would give our guests a unique experience.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

Total freedom.

What do you enjoy the least?

I really get annoyed when people start a sentence with “you have to” when engaging with me over a business discussion or personal dialogue. I can comfortably say that at this stage of my life “I don’t have to” do anything but walk on my own path.

Who was/is your greatest influence?

Nelson Mandela. He had all the reasons to carry hatred within himself but chose to embrace the change and work for a better future. I must say, I appreciate the leaders of our time who put their nations interest at heart rather than their own.

This goes for the business leaders as well What is your personal indulgence?

To enjoy a good life. This motto is also crucial for anyone who wants to make ways in the hospitality industry. If you offer luxury lifestyle, one must know how to enjoy the finer things in life to lead a successful hotel business in today’s hospitality scene.

Your thoughts regarding “Sustainable Luxury” in our hospitality industry & your own hotels?

Luxury, by definition, contradicts with any shape or form of sustainability efforts in many areas of the industry. It can even be categorized as “waste machine” therefore hotels must be very careful and honest on how to tackle this issue.

Your favorite sustainable hotel or other place to stay?

There are many hotels around the globe who does few things well but not the complete package so I don’t really have a favorite one.

What steps do you take to make your personal life more sustainable?

I am very conscious of my own carbon footprint in the environment. It pains me to witness how much damage is done with packaging which in my view a lot can be avoided. I am very keen to avoid any motorized travel wherever I can by walking long distances and using a bicycle regularly. I do believe the important balance between “what I need” vs “what I want”. I suggest everyone to think about this where they will quickly realize how much can be achieved for yourself and for the environment.

Regarding The Paris Climate Agreement, if you had the opportunity to confront all the world’s leaders – what would you ask them?

I would advise all world leaders to be honest and make policies that would protect the future of our children. I can only echo a brilliant young lady Greta Thunberg from Sweden who is only 16 yet delivered a mesmerizing speech at the UN Climate Change Conference.

What in your opinion is the most pressing sustainability issue facing the travel industry today?

All shape and forms of motorized transportation has a large impact on the environment. The one I am particularly watching is the Cruise Ship business. I fail to understand why this segment of the travel industry has been avoided when it comes to environmental sustainability. A close look at Cruise Ships will certainly be an eye-opener for many.

Do your guests Care about Sustainability?

They certainly and increasingly do. Hotel guests are very conscious of how the product and services are put together and what is their impact on environmental sustainability. They are no longer satisfied with usual tactics practiced by the hotels i.e. chemicals used of washing towels, bed linens etc. but looking for more comprehensive solutions at the hotels. These range from using clean energy throughout the hotel to procure food and beverage items from close by locations to limit carbon footprint.

Can you share a favorite place to stay, or a useful product or service, that you feel is doing something genuinely sustainable for people and planet?

I truly appreciate Bhutan as a destination and how they handle tourism. Whilst they need all tourism income for the welfare of the country they are very careful not to open to mass tourism that would potentially harm the country’s natural habitat.

They truly understand the value of staying ‘pure’ in their destination offerings.

Your job is of course central to the cause of eco-luxury, travel and sustainability. But what do you do in your daily personal life and when you are traveling in the name of sustainability?

I have been vigorously trying to reduce waste in everything I do including travel.

What are your expansion plans with Blazon?

As the industry’s youngest yet most dynamic hotel management company, we do enjoy a vast amount of management opportunities presented around the globe.

Whilst we are very selective on each project to align our vision with the hotel owner’s, we have an immediate pipeline of 9 hotels from Ecuador to Malaysia as well as the primary locations in Europe and the Middle East.

What’s your personal retiring plan?

I don’t have a retirement plan because I want to continue to do what I love.

CONCEIVED TO CELEBRATE BRILLIANCE IN OUR INDUSTRY Dedicated to people who are making outstanding contributions to the global luxury Lebensart. Inspiring and educating a new generation of discerning hoteliers and exclusive service providers.

HallOfFame

ol N

HoteliersGuild has joined the humanitarian vision and efforts by helping those in need of clean water, shelter, food and other basic necessities to live,

causes

B

especially children.

And we provide support to initiatives that promote ethical luxury travel.

e

1 to become a member go to wholeworldwater.co

https://www.wholeworldwater.co

THE LAMPI FOUNDATION “Through eco-tourism, Wa Ale pledges to annually donate 20% of net profits and 2% of room revenues from Wa Ale to the Lampi Foundation”

Shinta Mani’s community activities began in 2004 with the opening of the Shinta Mani Hotel and Institute of Hospitality on the grounds of Shinta Mani Angkor, a boutique hotel owned by Mr. Sokoun. This innovative program, which received international recognition for its efforts, trained underprivileged Cambodians in aspects of world-class hotel operations on a free of charge basis-providing them the skills to secure employment and a brighter future.

READ MORE: ShintaManiFoundation

Beyond The Expected

thealpinagstaad.ch Alpinastrasse 23

3780 Gstaad, Switzerland

T. + 41 33 888 98 88

F. + 41 33 888 98 89

info@thealpinagstaad.ch

www.lelixir.ch

follow us

Burg Vital Resort, Lech am Arlberg, Austria

Le Richemond, Geneva, Switzerland

Hotel Unique, SĂŁo Paulo, Brazil

The Siam, Bangkok, Thailand

It’s a big world. What do you Prefer?

750 hotels. 85 countries. An infinite number of unique experiences.

Explore the entire portfolio at PreferredHotels.com.

19_155

CONCEIVED TO CELEBRATE BRILLIANCE IN OUR INDUSTRY Dedicated to people who are making outstanding contributions to the global luxury Lebensart. Inspiring and educating a new generation of discerning hoteliers and exclusive service providers.

HallOfFame

DETAILS HERE

A PROGRAM THAT PROVIDES PRO-BONO PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT TO OWNERS AND DEVELOPERS OF ECO-LUXURY HOTELS & RETREATS.

C li

combat

mate

change

advisors and owners of properties, vehicles and services in the hospitality, tourism and

climate we are changing are escalating.

In the last few years, more companies have committed to sustainability, but few are

over accountable and transparent sustainability performance. This needs serious scrutiny

priority. Consumers, specially Generation Y & Z, are critically aware that there is a direct link between sustainable business, the environment and people’s lives; and there is no hiding in

Onno Poortier

today’s interconnected world.

Founder, Chairman & CE Transforming Hospitality GmbH itmustbe

.com

stakeholders, track progress, promote direct bookings with no commissions charged, and

your brand has integrity.

I urge all operators and hotel owners to go beyond seeing environmental and social

sustainable destinations and accommodations with no greenwash allowed.

It is the right thing to do. IT MUST BE NOW!

Through the NOW Lens: Flight Shame Author: By Team NOW

here.

Elsewhere in Europe, some airlines have been jumping on the PR bandwagon to try to prove their

READ MORE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

www.itmustbeNOW.com

Overtourism: The Canary in the Coalmine?

Author: Professor Susanne Becken

can. Residents in popular tourist spots have simply had enough, and their growing protests are a stark warning for local politicians that something urgently needs to be done. How much more tourism can the

XXXXXXXXXXXXX READ MORE www.itmustbeNOW.com

Our Water Footprint Author: Nicki Grihault

is fresh water*, we risk reaching the limit of our resources unless we become more mindful of how we use it.

In a genius welcome move, Professor Arjen Hoekstra of the University of Twente in The Netherlands created the concept of a ‘water footprint’ to measure the amount of water needed to produce the goods and services we use, from a pair of jeans to our suitcases and phones.

READ MORE www.itmustbeNOW.com

The private society for discerning luxury hoteliers by invitation only

HoteliersGuild

HUMAN LUXURY™ Welcome to hotels unlike any other. YOO Hotels & Resorts are a perfect fusion. They combine extraordinary living spaces created by signature designers with the world’s most sublime destinations and effortlessly flawless service. Meanwhile, YOO2 continues the YOO design ethic in a bold, eclectic collection of accessible boutique hotels; each one a striking, singular expression of local soul.

HONG KONG · BORACAY · BALI · JAKARTA · PHUKET · COTSWOLDS · CORTINA TUSCANY · TBILISI · ST VINCENT · RIO DE JANEIRO · PORTE ALLEGRE

YOOHOTELS.COM

e Carsten Rath, a distinguished member of HoteliersGuild is ,of course, also an internationally sought-after keynote speaker and author on the topics of service and leadership excellence. The Handelsblatt calls him "THE international service excellence authority", for n-tv he is "the service expert No. 1 in Germany". He was awarded, among others, with the 'Innovation Award of the German Tourism Industry', as' Employer of the Year 'as well as Hotel Manager and Host of the Year’.

s s a y

“

The popular excuse that sustainability should not come at the expense of guests is therefore no longer valid. Unfortunately, however, I do observe that some hospitality companies are dealing with this really obvious future topic at snail’s pace!

“

“Luxury and sustainability were once declared enemies. Just a few years ago, many a hotelier would have preferred to swallow his own cufflinks before compromising his golden, sparkling interior with natural brown, "green" products. A similar situation existed with sophisticated cuisine: For a long time cooks who held themselves in high regard, turned up their noses at the thought of vegan dishes.

Since then, a lot has changed - apart from the fact that hoteliers are no longer wearing cufflinks as often as they used to. Hardly any chef today would refuse to conjure up a vegan creation, at least if requested to do so. Vegan is now no longer disreputable, but rather chic. The situation is similar with sustainability: Environmentally friendly products no longer always have to come in discouragingly natural brown colour. Organic is also available in gold!

The popular excuse that sustainability should not come at the expense of guests is therefore no longer valid. Unfortunately, however, I do observe that some hospitality companies are dealing with this really obvious future topic at snail’s pace. Doing away with plastic straws is a good start, but it's not enough for a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. If the sustainability concept stops where luxury begins, it is not sustainable.

For the majority of sensitive points, where we once saw the comfort of the guests being endangered, long-term alternatives already exist. The market has also been massively affected by supposedly irreplaceable consumer goods. Coffee is a good example for any hospitality operation. Of course, as an established gastronomy business, it is not easy to exchange coffee or other habitual delicacies that the regulars have allegedly appreciated for years or decades. Of course, coffee capsules are convenient. As long as "green" coffee was a compromise between quality and sustainability, I could understand any restaurateur who declined - including myself until recently.

But the era of compromise is over. Today, coffee is as delicious as it is organic. New providers solve the big problem of comfort for many hotels: Some of the fully compostable bio-capsules, filled with sustainably produced organic coffee, are even compatible with existing equipment.

But what is more important: Nowadays, sustainable coffee often tastes fantastic and is presented as a lifestyle and in an elegant way. Quality and sustainability? That's the way luxury works.

At the Luxury Business Day, which took place in Munich in July, the conviction of the market leaders was tangible: Today, new luxury concepts without a sustainability aspect are no longer feasible. The Luxury Business Report, a survey among CEOs of more than 50 luxury brands coined the term "Neo luxury".

It's time we all become "neo", rather yesterday than today. It is only a matter of time before we see the first hotel with a positive ecological footprint. Today, no one has to swallow their cufflinks anymore.”

hello.again.

RAFFLES | SINGAPORE | RELOADED “We were a little tired before the restoration,” said Christian Westbeld, general manager and HoteliersGuild member. “I don’t want to say we are now hip, but we are relevant…”

“

To have such a grand, 19thcentury hotel in such a small destination like Singapore, we’ve become the pride of the country,” he says “We could do everything behind the scenes to update and refresh, but we can’t become too avant-garde and futuristic. And we had to retrain our butler team to be more about emotional engagement than about transactions.

”

It opened in 1887, so it’s hard to call this hotel contemporary. Its namesake is the founder of the colonial Singapore, the British statesman Sir Stamford Raffles, and the architecture still screams colonialism. All rooms are suites with polished teakwood floors and white plaster columns. And, of course, this is the institution that introduced the concept of private butlers to Singapore‌

The Raffles Grill had to go and is now Le Dame de Pic, a restaurant helmed by Anne-Sophie Pic, a three-Michelin-starred French chef, who thrives on working with vegetables.

READ HERE

READ HERE