2023 World Luxury Awards Event Magazine

GALA CEREMONY

|

GRAND HYATT ATHENS

|

GREECE

|

1 28 OCTOBER 2023

Travel broadens the mind, so do our programmes

NEWS

INTERNATIONAL NEWS & FEATURES 24/7 available in English, French, Arabic and Spanish

Hospitality contacts: Claire Moreuil - claire.moreuil@francemm.com & Vishmi Congreve - vishmi.congreve@francemm.com

CONTENTS

4

Foreword

6

Foreword

Brandon Lourens

Anton Perold

7

Our Story

9

Previous Host Properties

10

Previous Winners

12

Weekend Schedule

13

Gala Menu

4

15

About the Host Property

18

Sym Biologic System

12

Grand Hyatt Athens Goes Grander

Interview

15

20 24

20

26

30

About Athens Exploring Athens Top 10 Must-Do Activities

26

The Greek Gourmet Tours

28

Making of Trophies

31

New Trophies

32

Merchandise

34

2023 Winners

38

Sales Information

Hotel, Spa, Restaurant, and Travel

WLA Staff 3

FOREWORD

Brandon Lourens CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

2023 has been a remarkable year for the luxury

competition amongst industry experts and to

hospitality industry. Congratulations to all the

have the honour of awarding our 2023 winners

winners in our 17

through the hundreds of thousands of votes

th

annual award year. It is our

pleasure to welcome you in Greece where we

received during this year’s voting campaign.

can celebrate your achievements in such a lavish establishment as the Grand Hyatt Athens,

The World Luxury Awards celebrates hospitality

in the land of ancient and intriguing history.

which runs in the veins of each individual who serves in this never-sleeping industry. It is in

We hope that during your time here you will

the core of the awarding procedure, by the vote

experience Greece and all the beauty and

of your own guests, that these achievements

magic she has to offer. We would like to thank

are accomplished. Tonight, we give thanks

The Greek Gourmet Tours for a truly spectacular

and recognition to all of our participants in the

start to this journey on Friday night as we

2023 award year for your excellence in service

toured the streets of Athens, seeing many a

in the luxury hospitality, wellness, dining and

spectacular site.

travel sectors.

One can truly reflect on this past year as having

Thank you for taking time to join us this evening,

significant promise to the luxury hospitality

for a night to remember. And special thanks to

industry. It has been rewarding to see the healthy

all involved in making tonight happen.

4

SPAANDWELLNESSINTERNATIONAL.COM

LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT SPA EXPERIENCE? VISIT OUR SPA & WELLNESS WEBSITE. YOU CAN CHECK OUT THE LATEST AND GREATEST IN SPAS, VIEW UPCOMING RETREATS, SPECIAL OFFERS, FIND YOUR NEXT ESCAPE OR ADD A REVIEW OF YOUR LATEST EXPERIENCE. WE’VE ALSO GOT PLENTY OF GREAT INFORMATION ON ALL THINGS SPA & WELLNESS RELATED.

SPA & WELLNESS

INTERNATIONAL

573

FOREWORD

Anton Perold MANAGING DIRECTOR

This year we celebrate our twentieth Gala

worked tirelessly through the year to culminate

Ceremony! Congratulations and thank you to

here in Athens celebrating the 2023 Award year.

everyone that has been part of this journey.

Special mention must be made of all our sponsors,

specifically

24

for

their

To

Grand

Hyatt

This year we made some fantastic additions to

unwavering

the marketing materials you will receive, I am

Athens, thank you for hosting our awards

sure this will enhance the marketing of your

ceremony, it has been a privilege and a pleasure

achievements in the 2023 Awards.

working with you.

We have

support.

France the

also added lazer cut crystal glass trophies to our merchandise range for your consideration.

Lastly

and

most

importantly

to

all

our

participants, thank you and well done with your A special thank you to all our merchandise

awards, I unfortunately could not be there to

suppliers, audio visual and graphic design

join in the celebration this year but I look

service providers and our staff, who have

forward to seeing all of you in 2024.

6

OUR STORY

The idea was ignited when respected hotelier, Brandon Lourens, wanted to enter some of the hotels in his hotel management portfolio in an awards program but could not find a luxury awards program which operated in the hotel sector. The idea was brainstormed with his management team and the company was founded.

With its original head-office in Stellenbosch, South Africa, the company proved to fill a void for a bespoke luxury hotel awards company which brought distinction to that segment of the market.

inSPArations, a monthly spa magazine featuring all spa participants was launched.

2023 A new updated website is launched with a modern fresh streamlined design.

7

8

PREVIOUS HOST PROPERTIES

2007

The 1st Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony

2008

The 2nd Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony

2009

The 3rd Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony

2010

The 4th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony

2011

The 5th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony

LANZERAC HOTEL, STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA

LANZERAC HOTEL, STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA

LEBUA AT STATE TOWER, BANGKOK, THAILAND

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN, THAILAND

REGENT ESPLANADE ZAGREB HOTEL, CROATIA

2012

The 6th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony PAN PACIFIC HOTEL, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

2013

The 7th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony INDIGO PEARL RESORT, PHUKET, THAILAND

2014

The 8th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony THE BAY HOTEL, CAMPS BAY, SOUTH AFRICA

2015

The 9th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony HARBOUR GRAND, HONG KONG

2016

The 10th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony THE ST. REGIS, DOHA, QATAR

The 1st Annual World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Gala Ceremony GRAND HOTEL KRONENHOF, PONTRESINA, SWITZERLAND

2017

The 11th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony KULM HOTEL ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND

The 2nd Annual World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Gala Ceremony JW MARRIOTT HOTEL HANOI, VIETNAM

2018

The 12th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony AYANA RESORT AND SPA, BALI, INDONESIA

The 3rd Annual World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Gala Ceremony GALGORM, UNITED KINGDOM

2019

The 13th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony ARCTIC TREEHOUSE HOTEL, FINLAND

The 4th Annual World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Gala Ceremony THE STATE HERMITAGE MUSEUM OFFICIAL HOTEL, SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

2021

The 15th Annual World Luxury Awards Gala Ceremony

TROU AUX BICHES BEACHCOMBER GOLF RESORT & SPA, MAURITIUS

2022

The 16th Annual World Luxury Awards Gala Ceremony SWANDOR HOTELS & RESORTS, TOPKAPI PALACE, TURKEY

2023

The 17th Annual World Luxury Awards Gala Ceremony GRAND HYATT ATHENS, GREECE

9

PREVIOUS WINNERS

WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARDS — GLOBAL HOTEL OF THE YEAR WINNERS

2022: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Canada 2023: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Thailand WORLD LUXURY SPA AWARDS — GLOBAL SPA OF THE YEAR WINNERS

2021: Spa Royal Mansour, Morocco 2022: AWAY Spa W Verbier, Switzerland 2023: Spirit Hotel Thermal Spa, Hungary WORLD LUXURY RESTAURANT AWARDS — GLOBAL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR WINNERS

2022: M.B, Spain 2023: Le Pavillon, Germany WORLD LUXURY TRAVEL AWARDS — GLOBAL TRAVEL ESTABLISHMENT OF THE YEAR WINNERS 2022: Princess Cruises, United States of America 2023: Australia Zoo, Australia 10

11

GALA EVENT

2023 WORLD LUXURY AWARDS

GALA CEREMONY Grand Hyatt Athens, Greece

WEEKEND SCHEDULE F R I D AY 2 7 TH O C T O B E R

S A T U R D AY 2 8 TH O C T O B E R

Epic Athens Tour offered by The Greek Gourmet Tours

5pm Welcome Cocktail Party at Grand Hyatt Athens Parthenon and Cyclades Foyer

4:50pm Depart from Grand Hyatt Athens 8pm Tour ends in Plaka Dress Code: Casual

6pm Award Proceedings Commence – Caryatids Ballroom 11pm After Party at Grand Hyatt Athens Rooftop Venue Dress Code: Formal

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GALA EVENT

GALA MENU Amuse bouche

Wagyu beef nigiri, gold leaf Cold appetizer

Red fin tuna tartar, pickled fennel, Ossetra caviar, king crab salad, cappuccino leaves & ponzu emulsion Alpha Estate Ecosystem Assyrtiko Singe Block "Aghia Kiriaki" 2022, P.G.I. Florina Hot appetizer

Panzerotti stuffed with porcini, foie gras, morel sauce, chives & sage butter Alpha Estate Xinomavro Single Vineyard "Hedgehog" 2020, P.D.O. Amyndeon Sorbet

Champagne sorbet Main course

Slow cooked lamb, smoked celeriac cream, caramelized baby lettuce, egg-lemon broth & herb oil Alpha Estate Ecosystem Xinomavro Reserve Vielles Vignes Single Block "Barba Yannis" 2020, P.D.O. Amyndeon Dessert

Valrhona chocolate sphere, white chocolate crèmeux, mango compote, hazelnut biscuit, wild forest fruits & warm chocolate sauce Alpha Estate Omega 2020, P.G.I. Florina

Some items are subject to change per availability.

13

14

GRAND HYATT ATHENS GOES

GRANDER Grand Hyatt Athens is currently the largest Grand Hyatt in Europe with 548 rooms in total, 4 pools, conference rooms and event spaces of 4.400 square meters.

Located on Syngrou Avenue, between the business and cultural center of the historic city of Athens and the cosmopolitan Athenian Riviera, Grand Hyatt Athens is the largest Grand Hyatt in Europe after a major expansion.

T

he project that lasted

the existing hotel structure.

single building. In terms of

for more than two years

Once inside the Grand Hyatt

accommodation, 227 new

involved the neighbouring

Athens, guests will see that

rooms and suites were added,

property that previously

no separation joints are

bringing the total number

housed a cinema complex,

apparent. The common areas

of rooms at the Grand Hyatt

turning it into a new distinct

on the ground floor and

Athens to 548 – among them

building. Behind its imposing

the hallways to the rooms

suites with their own private

Doric facade rise 8 floors that

on all eight floors have all

pool, something unique for a

are connected to those of

been designed to create one

city hotel in Athens.

15

HOST PROPERTY

A new and impressive Penthouse Suite is set on the 8th floor, a two-story interior space designed as a home, with a private swimming pool, fireplace and mesmerizing views to the city: the

perfect

accommodation

for demanding guests and the ideal spot for private events.

As

for

the

hotel’s

interior

design, it follows the line of modern elegance, abstract luxury, with materials such as marble, wood and bronze and patterns that hint classical Greek forms. All spaces are furnished with stylish items, many

of

them

designed

exclusively for the hotel.

An essential part of the ambience at the Grand Hyatt Athens is art. Found throughout the hotel, all works of art are created by distinguished Greek artists: paintings, photographs and sculptures that recall the classical beauty in a contemporary way.

At the Grand Hyatt Athens’ new wing a multitude of conference and various event spaces are located, occupy three levels and reach 4,400 square meters. These include: executive lounges, meeting and syndicate rooms, spaces for interviews and areas for private dining.

Amid them the Caryatids ballroom on the ground floor, with a capacity to host 1,000 guests, the only one of its kind at this size with natural daylight in the city. The Grand Hyatt Athens can be the ideal host for business conferences, corporate events, charity events, galas and personal family moments such as weddings. These developments come to ensure the leading role of the refreshed Grand Hyatt Athens in the business and social landscape of the Greek capital.

16

Great focus has been also given to the rooftop, where a second swimming pool has been added, with stunning views to the Acropolis, making the Grand Hyatt Athens the only hotel in the Greek capital with four pools, including the existing rooftop pool, the Atrium pool at the inner court and the pool of the spa. Furthermore, there are two rooftop restaurants, “The Grand by Interni” on the 8th floor and a brand new one on the 9th floor, making GHA the only hotel in Athens with two rooftop restaurants.

Last but not least the hotel houses Aegeo Spa with a 25 meters indoor pool, and a fitness center that offers guests complimentary access all day long.

The Grand Hyatt Athens with its ideal location, style and amenities is the perfect hotel for business and leisure, offering the ultimate hospitality experience in a city with a heady mix of history and edginess.

17

Sym Biologic System INTERVIEW

Can you provide a brief overview of your brand, including its history?

What inspired you to create this brand?

For over 15 years, we have been designers and operators of

influences to establish the right foundations and identify the

spas. Operational reality is our day-to-day. We understand

real needs. Next, we identified what we needed to rely on to

that nowadays, the success of a spa is dependent on a

define the brand, namely the feedback from the 200,000

combination of demands:

clients we have had since the company was established,

• A location that is impeccably maintained and dreamlike.

• A warm and sincere welcome.

• A caring, expert and regularly trained team.

• A smooth client process that leaves no room for

Initially, we cleared the table of the cosmetic sector's marketing

and scientific knowledge, particularly in dermatology, to understand skin function. Consequently, we defined Sym Biologic System as a physio skincare brand because we developed it based on skin physiology, that is, from its functionality.

confusion and aligns with the rigorous standards

We also identified five fundamental principles that we

of luxury hospitality.

needed to adhere to:

• A cosmetic brand that aligns perfectly with the needs and expectations of the clients.

• It must be effective.

• It must be good for health.

We always had this project in mind to create our skincare

• It must respect the physiology of the skin.

brand that reflects our image, our needs, and the needs of

• It must respect the biology of the skin.

our clients. However, it is a considerable task, and our primary

• Everything that composes it must have a purpose.

objective was to develop our establishments above all.

The universe of 5* Hotel Spas is our speciality, and we bring the best of our expertise to the spas we operate. Until now, we controlled every aspect of the client experience, with the exception of the cosmetic brand. In our Spas, we used cosmetic products available on the market, but it was very complicated to find a brand that met all our expectations perfectly: that is, being effective, natural, addressing the issues of our clients with healthy products and having treatment protocols that please our hotel partners. We have spent our time making compromises to define the suitable brand for each establishment.

Thus, the creation of Sym Biologic System became an obvious decision.

Two years ago, we introduced Sym Biologic System into our spas. Our clients have placed their trust in us. They have lived the experience; their feedback and loyalty show that they have embraced the change.

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Could you describe your product line and its key offerings?

In everything we do, we believe in challenging established conventions. We believe in an innovative approach, placing customer experience at the core of our strategy. Our way of defying the status quo is by creating products that make sense, easy to use and that create a true synergy with every individual.

We strive to deliver an exceptional client experience, where every aspect is crafted to meet needs and exceed expectations. As it happens, we manufacture effective cosmetic products, healthy and beneficial, allowing you to indulge in a unique sensory experience while taking care of yourself.

With Sym Biologic System, we take care of you with sincerity, common sense, integrity, transparency, and effectiveness.

We preserve your health while meeting your needs and expectations. Our wish is for you to feel good and let the health of your skin express and manifest itself visibly.

INTERVIEW

We have also created high-performance treatments that

exposed to air pollution, and furthermore, they work

amplify your cells' natural production, like elastin, collagen,

all day in front of computer screens and are also

hyaluronic acid, and bolster your immune system. We have

exposed to the screens of their phones. We know that

developed specific powerful massage techniques that

pollution

enable the mobilisation of your body's resources while

screens penetrate the skin and oxidize our cells. To

maintaining the exceptional sensuality of a spa treatment.

limit this oxidation, we have created the Anti-Pollution

Thus, all our massages and facial treatments, our body massages and treatments are the perfect symbiosis between effectiveness, results, relaxation, and sensuality, bringing a deep sense of well-being.

Are there any new or upcoming products that customers can look forward to?

In fact, we are thrilled to announce that our entire range is fresh to the market, offering customers an entirely new suite of products to explore and incorporate into their skincare routine. As our brand continues to evolve, our customers can anticipate a series of innovative solutions, each

thoughtfully

crafted

with

the

latest

scientific

knowledge and the highest quality ingredients. We're genuinely excited about this launch, and we can't wait for our clients to experience the transformative effects of Sym Biologic System for themselves.

Can you highlight any unique or signature spa products that have garnered special attention from customers or the industry?

I cannot answer this question simply because, fundamentally, all our products have been designed to maintain hydration, stimulate natural production, and strengthen the skin barrier.

and

the

blue

light

emitted

by

these

Anti-Blue Light Complex, incorporating active ingredients that are a shield of antioxidants, photoprotectors, and free radical captors that block biological mechanisms from external aggressions.

I also want to mention a much more technical product that we call the Dermogate. One of our goals was to ensure that the products applied penetrate deeply, as quickly as possible so that they do not remain on the surface too long, as they would be oxidized and degraded. The study of skin physiology teaches us that lipids penetrate five times faster on damp skin and that to facilitate penetration, there must be far fewer impurities on our skin. So, we created the Dermogate, literally the gate of the dermis, which is composed of hyaluronic acid to maintain a higher moisture level of the epidermis longer, accelerating the penetration speed of lipid complexes fivefold.

The Dermogate also contains AHA, fruit acids, which will rid the epidermis of dead cells and impurities to facilitate the penetration of lipidic actives.

Where can customers find your spa products, both online and offline?

We work only with professionals in hotels, spas and beauty salons.

However, each product has its specificities. And I prefer to give you concrete examples of our clients' concerns.

For instance, some of our clients are urbans and thus

To contact us info@symbiologicsystem.com Our website: www.symbiologicsystem.com

When efficiency becomes natural and preserves health.

More than skincare, it’s a lifestyle.

THINK NATURALLY TAKE CARE NATURALLY

NATURAL ORIGIN

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ABOUT ATHENS

ATHENS Athens is the capital city of Greece and holds the distinction of being the largest city in the country. Nestled within the Attica region, Athens serves as the administrative centre of the area.

T

he sprawling expanse of Athens can be categorized into seven distinct city districts, each contributing to the city's vibrant mosaic.

Athens holds a pivotal role in Greece, being the political and economic center of the entire country. This thriving metropolis houses a population exceeding four million residents.

The name "Athens" finds its origin in the reverence of the Greek goddess Athena.

Throughout antiquity, the city bore immense importance, holding a unique distinction as the world's first democracy. A groundbreaking development in its time, this system allowed Greek citizens to actively engage in political affairs. Many of the architectural landmarks in Athens were partly destroyed and have decayed from several wars which took place against the Persians. Yet, from these historical struggles emerged a legacy that transcends time.

an abundance of ancient marvels, temples, remnants, and churches. A veritable paradise for devotees of ancient Greece, Athens beckons with its splendid treasures.

A must-see is undoubtedly the Acropolis, a commanding hill at the heart of Athens that boasts some of the most paramount archaeological wonders. Yet, throughout the urban expanse, vestiges of temples and other monuments stand testament to a bygone era, many paying homage to the deities of ancient Greek mythology.

Athens is known as a city that produced many brilliant minds, philosophers including the likes of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle. As the perfect place for intellectual pursuits, Athens became an important hub for culture, artistry, and philosophical exploration.

EXPLORING ATHENS What awaits you on your visit to the city of Athens? The Greek capital stands adorned with 20

Acropolis

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Museums are aplenty in Athens. Preeminent among them are the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Noteworthy is the latter, which houses the most extensive assortment of ancient Greek art across the entire nation. Furthermore, Athens, Greece, boasts a plethora of both expansive and intimate museums, each specialized in particular art forms or eras of history.

Athens is pleasantly adorned with numerous squares, like Monastiráki Square, where you will find a bustling shopping area. A visit to Athens promises a diverse array of experiences tailored to every individual.

Museums are aplenty in Athens. Preeminent among them are the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Noteworthy is the latter, which houses the most extensive assortment of ancient Greek art across the entire nation. Furthermore, Athens, Greece, boasts a plethora of both expansive and intimate museums, each specialized in particular art forms or eras of history.

Athens is pleasantly adorned with numerous squares, like Monastiráki Square, where you will find a bustling shopping area. A visit to Athens

promises a diverse array of experiences tailored to every individual.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF ATHENS The expanse of Athens city unfolds into a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods, each embracing its own unique ambience and cultural flair. Every neighborhood has a different character, at times evoking the sensation of stepping into an entirely different city. Take, for instance, the Pláka district – bustling, inviting, and a haven for tourists, while the charming Anafiótika district exudes tranquility and resonates with a local vibe.

At the heart of it all lies the Monastiráki district, a central hub adorned with several monuments, the sprawling retail haven of Ermeu Street, and a plethora of shops and eateries that extend their reach to the vicinity of Monastiráki Square. In the evening, the Psirri district comes alive, with captivating street art and a cozy atmosphere.

Alternatively, there's the Gázi district, known for its vibrant nightlife, offering a contrasting but equally enticing facet of the city's vibrancy.

21

ABOUT ATHENS

Anafiótika district

TRANSPORT IN ATHENS There is one major airport in Athens: Athens Airport. Within half an hour from the airport you can be in the city center. Athens is an expansive city and the heart of Athens encompasses a multitude of neighborhoods.

The area is quite hilly, therefore to explore to different areas by foot can prove to be quite challenging. Thankfully, the city offers an array of options for getting around, including public transportation and taxis.

Psiri — Heros Square

The metro system is the main system of public transit. Complementing this, the tram, train, and bus networks also cover the Athens region.

The public transport system is quite affordable.

You have the choice to purchase individual tickets or opt for daily or weekly passes, unlocking unlimited access to public transit.

This proves especially advantageous if you're aiming to explore a substantial portion of Athens in a brief span. Conveniently, metro and bus stations are conveniently situated near many of Athens' iconic attractions.

Central Market in Athens 22

ABOUT ATHENS

Monstitski Flea Market

IDEAL TIMING FOR EXPLORING ATHENS CITY Athens boasts a Mediterranean climate known for scorching summers and temperate winters.

During the summer temperatures can be as high as 40 degrees Celsius, while winter tends to be cool, rarely exceeding 13 degrees Celsius.

Precipitation, including rain and snow, occasionally graces the city during the colder months. For travelers embarking on an Athenian adventure, a desire to immerse in the city's rich history usually outweighs the allure of a typical beach getaway. This emphasis on cultural exploration makes July and August, with their blistering temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius, less than ideal for an Athens escapade. June also tends to deliver considerable warmth.

For those eager to experience Athens at its finest, the optimal months to consider are March, April, May, September, and October.

During these periods, the climate remains pleasantly warm, making strolls through the

Miran Deli in Psiri, Athens

city enjoyable without the oppressive heat.

Athens tourism flourishes during these months, constituting its high season. As a result, a surge of visitors can be expected. To sidestep the bustling crowds, opting for an early or late high season visit is advisable.

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TOP 10 SIGHTS

Exploring Athens: Top 10 Must-Do Activities

2 1

4

A

thens, the historical and cultural heart of Greece, beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of ancient wonders, modern delights, and Mediterranean charm. From iconic archaeological sites to vibrant neighborhoods, the city offers a plethora of experiences that capture the essence of Greece's past and present. Here are the top 10 things to do in Athens, ensuring an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

1. Unveil the Acropolis Majesty No visit to Athens is complete without ascending the Acropolis hill to witness the grandeur of the Parthenon. Explore the ancient citadel and its remarkable structures, while soaking in panoramic views of the city below.

The Acropolis Museum nearby offers further insights into the history and significance of this iconic site.

2. Wander the Enchanting Plaka District Stroll through the charming streets of Plaka, a historic neighborhood characterized by its 24

3

cobblestone pathways, traditional architecture, and lively atmosphere. Browse local shops, savor Greek cuisine at quaint tavernas, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

3. Immerse in History at the National Archaeological Museum Delve into Greece's rich history at the National Archaeological Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts spanning centuries.

Admire sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and more, providing a comprehensive overview of ancient Greek civilization.

4. Step Back in Time at the Ancient Agora Experience the heart of ancient Athenian life at the Ancient Agora, where you can explore ruins of temples, stoas, and the iconic Hephaestus Temple. Imagine bustling marketplaces and philosophical discussions that once took place in this historical setting.

5. Marvel at the Temple of Olympian Zeus Stand in awe before the Temple of Olympian

7

9

5

6

Zeus, a testament to ancient engineering and devotion. Admire the colossal columns that remain of this grand structure, dedicated to the king of the Greek gods.

6. Roam the Bustling Monastiraki Flea Market Indulge in a sensory feast at Monastiraki Flea Market, where colorful stalls offer a diverse array of goods, from antiques and souvenirs to spices and street food. This bustling marketplace encapsulates the city's vibrant energy.

7. Discover Greek Parliament and Syntagma Square Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guards in front of the Greek Parliament building at Syntagma Square. This central hub is not only a historical landmark but also a lively gathering place, where locals and visitors alike converge.

8. Ascend Mount Lycabettus for Breathtaking Views Hike or take the funicular to Mount Lycabettus for unparalleled vistas of Athens. As the sun sets

8

10

over the city, the panorama is nothing short of magical. Capture postcard-worthy photographs and savor the moment.

9. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium Step into history at the Panathenaic Stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games.

Walk in the footsteps of athletes and relive the excitement of the Games that unite nations.

10. Experience Modern Athens in Kolonaki Explore the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki, known for its fashionable boutiques, chic cafes, and cosmopolitan ambiance. It's a perfect blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Greek hospitality.

As you embark on your journey through Athens, each of these experiences will contribute to an enriching and unforgettable adventure. From ancient marvels to contemporary delights, Athens offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you spellbound.

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GOURMET TOURS

THE GREEK GOURMET TOURS The Greek Gourmet Tours curates bespoke walking tour experiences for travellers who wish to uncover Greece via her culture, traditions, myths, gastro-nomy and people.

W

e are called the Greek Gourmet Tours

The

company

operates

in

Athens,

Crete,

because all of our tours and activities

Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos and

always include a curated culinary experience!

mainland Greece. Anastasia, the soul and spirit of The Greek Gourmet Tours, operates two

It may be a refreshing lemonade on the

7-day Retreats based on mythology, philosophy

footsteps of the sacred rock of Acropolis,

and authentic Greek cuisine.

or a homely taverna at the Lassithi Plateau overlooking the windmills, or maybe a Michelin

With

starred restaurant in Santorini; Food is our

industry, and having worked with some of

passion and so is Mythology!

the world's most luxurious travel companies,

26

30

years’

experience

in

the

travel

The Greek Gourmet Tours designs itineraries throughout Greece for discerned travelers that visit Greece repeatedly.

Over the years, the company has created strong relationships

and

partnerships

with

travel

advisors that want to be represented in Greece by an experienced, high end yet friendly travel company that offers a platinum 24/7 concierge service for their discerned guests.

Flavours, untold stories, authentic smiles and people passionate about history and great food.

This is us! The Greek Gourmet Tours.

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MAKING OF TROPHIES

E

ach year the World Luxury Awards offers our prestigious winners an opportunity to order our range of exclusive merchandise. Our trophies are handcrafted in Cape Town, South Africa, and distributed globally.

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MAKING OF TROPHIES

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singaporebrides.com 30

MERCHANDISE

F

which results in a small fracture (bubble) at the point of precision.

Sub-surface laser engraving works by using a very strong local temperature gradient to treat the specific point in the crystal glass with thermal stress,

Once many of these small fractures are combined it creates an image. For the laser beam to create micro fractures within the material, in this case glass, it must possess an essential property: very high optical transparency. This is why our new set of trophies are made from crystal glass.

or the 2023 award year a new modern option has been added to our range of exclusive winner merchandise. These new trophies have each iconic trophy design engraved into crystal glass, using subsurface laser technology.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards Crystal Glass Trophy Price: GBP 290.00 (Shipping GBP 150.00) Height 240mm, Width 110mm

The World Luxury Spa Awards Crystal Glass Trophy Price: GBP 290.00 (Shipping GBP 150.00) Height 240mm, Width 110mm

The World Luxury Restaurant Awards Crystal Glass Trophy Price: GBP 270.00 (Shipping GBP 150.00) Height 160mm, Width 150mm

The World Luxury Travel Awards Crystal Glass Trophy Price: GBP 270.00 (Shipping GBP 150.00) Height 160mm, Width 150mm

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MERCHANDISE

The World Luxury Hotel Awards Trophy

Our 2023 World Luxury Hotel Awards Trophy is a solid bronze trophy with polished brass details on a pink Beachwood base.

This exclusive 2023 World Luxury Hotel Awards Trophy includes a custom engraving of your hotel name and title won.

The World Luxury Spa Awards Trophy

Our 2023 World Luxury Spa Awards Trophy is a polished bronze trophy on a pink Beachwood base.

This exclusive 2023 World Luxury Spa Awards Trophy includes a custom engraving of your spa name and title won.

The World Luxury Restaurant Awards Trophy

Our 2023 World Luxury Restaurant Awards Trophy is a polished bronze trophy on a pink Beachwood base.

This exclusive 2023 World Luxury Restaurant Awards Trophy includes a custom engraving of your restaurant name and title won.

The World Luxury Travel Awards Trophy

Our 2023 World Luxury Travel Awards Trophy is a polished brass trophy on a pink Beachwood base.

This exclusive 2023 World Luxury Travel Awards Trophy includes a custom engraving of your establishment name and title won.

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MERCHANDISE

The World Luxury Awards Plaques

These polished brass plaques are perfect to showcase at the front entrance of your establishment.

Packages A wide selection of packages is available in our online shop: www.theworldluxuryawards.com/shop

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2023 WINNER — HOTEL

2023 Global Hotel of the Year

Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Thailand

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2023 WINNER — SPA

2023 Global Spa of the Year

Spirit Hotel Thermal Spa, Hungary

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2023 WINNER — RESTAURANT

2023 Global Restaurant of the Year

Le Pavillon, Germany

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2023 WINNER — TRAVEL

2023 Global Travel Establishment of the Year

Australia Zoo, Australia

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WLA STAFF

MEET

THE MANAGEMENT

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Stellenbosch,

What is your favourite thing about your career?

South Africa. It’s a small town in the

My career allows me to see the world, to

Western Cape, about an hour’s drive

stay in some of the most incredible hotels

from Cape Town and it is surrounded

and experience new cultures. I studied

by mountains. The region offers spec-

hospitality and tourism so it’s my absolute

tacular wineries and some of the

passion in life to travel and experience

best fine dining cuisine in the world.

hospitality in different countries.

I would recommend anyone to visit Stellenbosch if you appreciate fine wine, good food and natural beauty.

What are three topics you could talk about for hours on end?

Travel, food and my family.

Do you have a family?

I am thrilled to share that I recently

Do you have a favourite destination?

got engaged, and our wedding is

My favourite destination for a holiday

planned to take place in Stellenbosch

would be Bali, there is just so much to do

at the end of 2024. I am excited about

and something for every type of traveller.

the prospect of welcoming children into our lives and to building a family of our own.

Is there a destination that surprised you the most?

Philippines is such a special country,

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

the Filipinos are so kind and their islands are breath-taking.

I have travelled to many countries always go home to South Africa. There

Do you have any “Bucket List” destinations?

Kayla Lourens

are pros and cons to every country, but

I would love to visit Italy, I am planning

EXECUTIVE EVENT COORDINATOR

my family is in South Africa and it also

on going on honeymoon there next

has arguably the best quality produce

year. I would also love to go on a ski

and grocery stores in the world and

holiday somewhere. Vietnam has also

food is my passion.

been on my bucket list for a long time.

throughout my career, and I will

Back row from left to right: Anton Perold, Anke van Zyl, Jana Stoman, Brandon Lourens, Riaan Ebersohn, Natasha Coetzee, Sherrylene Fischer, Adele Hamman

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Front row from left to right: Michael Hunter-Smith, Jade van Niekerk, Kayla Lourens, Chanté van Rensburg, Linda Cooper, Joanna Evans, Deidre Perold, Adri Bradbury, Wilna Joubert