Tag Archives: Tourism

News

Guests at luxury palace retreat can now stay in lodges designed by stars of hit TV show

VISITORS to a luxury holiday retreat in the grounds of a world heritage site can stay in exclusive accommodation remodelled by stars of a popular TV show.

The grand finale of BBC’s Interior Design Masters series – watched by up to 2.8m viewers – saw contestants Roisin Quinn and Matt Smith-Wood revamp two high-quality cabins at Darwin Escapes’ picturesque Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat in Woodstock, Oxfordshire.

The park has been a huge hit with families across the UK since opening last summer, and now looks set to attract even more customers, including fans of the hit programme fronted by comedian Alan Carr and judge Michelle Ogundehin.

Featuring a selection of one, two and three-bedroom self-catering lodges, the retreat is nestled within more than 2,000 acres of countryside and gardens, just a stone’s throw from the 320-year Palace, home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Resort Manager Simon Oliver says the impact of Interior Design Masters will reinforce a strong first year at the picturesque landmark.

“We have had a great start to life at Blenheim Palace, the feedback has been brilliant and visitor numbers look set to rise further, especially given the success of the TV series,” he said.

“That coupled with the increase in bookings we receive when events are held here, and the growing name of Darwin Escapes in this region, point to a successful summer and beyond.”

Simon added: “The two lodges redesigned by Matt and Roisin look incredible, they are very different and bespoke to varying tastes, from the furniture to the interior, decoration, and layout.

“Given their prominence in the final I’m sure fans of the series will be keen to book them, so that’s an added USP for this site.”

The final was won by Roisin, from Wirral, who was praised by judges – including renowned US potter Jonathan Adler – for creating a “joyous, memorable and delightful” lodge, a “fresh and very optimistic space”.

Her design included leafy wallpaper, glass pendants, mid-century dining furniture, sunshine yellow décor, bold soft furnishings, and an outdoor dining area to create what she herself described as “a colourful, cosy cabin in the woods”, a “magical space, a wonderland”.

Runner-up Matt, from Cheltenham, took a more contemporary approach with “nods to Blenheim Palace”, and his ideas featured traditional-style panelling, a gold leaf and mono kitchen, a plush rug, gold velvet sofa, modern chandeliers, and an external lounge area.

Both were tasked with “designing holiday lodges fit for royalty” and managed to achieve their goals in just two days with a budget of £6,000.

Following years of development and significant investment, Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat opened last August and now employs eight people from the local area.

The lodges were built with sustainability a priority, they are fitted with electric vehicle charging points and a quarter are pet friendly.

“There’s so much to do in this part of the world and of course the Palace is busy all year-round, so this is the perfect place to visit when exploring Oxfordshire,” said Simon.

“As viewers of the TV show witnessed, it’s a very special place, and I’m sure more and more people will come to see that for themselves in the months and years ahead.”

Heather Carter, Managing Director at Blenheim Palace, added: “It was a great pleasure and a lot of fun to have Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr film with us at Blenheim Palace in September last year. They were here for five days filming both at the Palace and the lodges, and we managed to keep it secret until the big reveal on BBC1.

“We have a lot of filming here at the Palace and it gives us great reach into new audiences, we know that being featured on such a popular programme as Interior Design Masters will entice more people to visit the Palace and book one of the lodges.”

For more information and to book, visit Luxury retreat holiday lodges Oxford | Blenheim Palace (darwinescapes.co.uk) and follow them on social media at @darwinescapes.

To win a free midweek break for up to four people at one of the lodges designed by Matt or Roisin, and tickets to Blenheim Palace, visit the website: Enter here | Interior Design Masters | Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat (darwinescapes.co.uk).  

News

Holiday park scales new heights following investment and creation of caravan ‘community’

A SEASIDE holiday retreat is going from strength to strength thanks to a unique ‘family feel’ which led to a wave of new customers post-Covid.

Darwin Escapes’ New Pines Holiday Home Park, on the outskirts of Dyserth and Rhyl, is unlike any other in the region.

Employing 40 staff and with more than 300 caravans and lodges on site – all of them owned, rather than rented – there is a sense of community which has led to the creation of sports clubs, a dining society, social organisations and more.

There is even a walking group with up to 180 members, two of whom recently completed a trek to the base camp at Mount Everest, where they proudly displayed a New Pines flag!

Following a revamp which included sports and leisure facilities, a heated swimming pool, bar and lounge, a dog walking area, and a bustling entertainment complex, the park is busier than ever before.

Sales Manager James Jones said there is a togetherness and warmth that appeals to prospective owners, a welcoming, safe environment which attracts families from Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire, the Midlands and beyond.

“There is a real community feel to New Pines, which stems from the ownership model we have here,” said James, from Mold, who celebrates a decade with Talacre-based Darwin Escapes in 2025.

“There are so many clubs and groups which make people feel special, there is an exclusivity because every caravan and lodge is owned – it’s their little piece of Wales, and they love that.”

He added: “We did see an upturn in sales following the pandemic – our try before you buy offer has been well-received – and upgrades in stock, and as we approach our busiest time of the year the future is looking bright.

“We make life as easy as possible, it’s very simple to buy, we are flexible and there is something for any budget, because inclusivity is paramount to us.”

With offers including free site fees, free energy bills and 50% off site fees next year, interest is building into the summer, with caravan prices beginning at £19,999.

But James says those are peripheral factors, a bonus for their demographic.

“While there has been investment in the buildings and facilities over the years, and in bringing the very best live acts to the park, the real draw has been the atmosphere and camaraderie,” he said.

“People use New Pines differently, there are couples who have been here for a long time, whose children have grown up together, and generations of families who return because of the memories they have.”

James added: “Because of our unique location, nestled between the beach and countryside, we have beautiful views while being a stone’s throw away from vibrant towns and cities.

“This has all played its part in the success of New Pines, and long may that continue.”

For more information on New Pines Holiday Home Park, visit the website Static caravans for sale in Rhyl | New Pines | Darwin Escapes and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

Hospitality, HR, News

New HR managers’ research on attractiveness of hospitality professions released in Sommet Education Foundation launch

Sommet Education, a leading worldwide player in hospitality education boasting a community of 10,000 students and 60,000 influential alumni worldwide, has launched its Foundation, a significant milestone aimed at supporting employment challenges within the hospitality sector.

The Foundation will concentrate on tackling the sector’s employment challenges by focusing on two levers of action: offering scholarships for hospitality education to talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, and advocating for careers and professions in hospitality.

 

Empowering individuals from underserved communities to pursue rewarding careers in hospitality

The launch comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, with the travel and tourism sector projected to provide employment for 449 million people worldwide by 2034, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). By then, 12.2% of the global workforce will be powering this vibrant sector. Despite these promising figures, many destinations and hospitality employers continue to face recruitment challenges.

Drawing on Sommet Education’s long-standing commitment to developing hospitality talent, the Sommet Education Foundation will leverage its global network of hospitality schools (Glion Institute of Higher Education, Les Roches, École Ducasse, Invictus, and Indian School of Hospitality) to train and open doors to careers in this industry for individuals from diverse and socially disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Sommet Education Foundation will identify talents supported by a network of social partners, including UN agencies, governmental entities and NGOs. Talents will be selected in alignment with the framework of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 4, focusing on inclusive education. Funding and support will be provided to educate and empower, particularly youth from impoverished backgrounds and women, while also creating lifelong learning opportunities and ensuring talents are gainfully employed within the sector.

 

Sommet Education Foundation patronage

“Joining the hospitality industry is more than a job guarantee; it is a promise of a rewarding and fulfilling career nurtured by human encounters, passion, cultural exchanges, and experiences,” said Anouck Weiss, Executive Vice-President at Sommet Education Foundation. “By offering scholarships leading to employment opportunities, we aim at offering life-changing opportunities to a new generation of talents and empowering them with the necessary skills to join the thriving hospitality industry.”

The Foundation can already count on Accor as a Founding Patron. The hospitality group has already committed to promoting talent development, fostering social equality, and bolstering economic growth through a first dedicated initiative in India. Steven Daines, Chief Talent & Culture Officer at Accor, said: “As a leading hospitality group, investing in people’s talent is a key priority. Hospitality is a sector that transcends territories and borders. This implies open-mindedness and connection to others. I am proud to be in a sector that promotes cross-border work experiences and multicultural environments”.

Echoing his views, Anne-Sophie Beraud, SVP Diversity & Inclusion & Social Care at Accor, added: “The success of our employees must not be determined by diplomas, origins or nationalities. We want to guarantee each of our talents the opportunity to reach their full potential by preventing inequalities and discrimination.”

Promoting hospitality professions: survey shows strong sector attractiveness and employer voluntarism to attract and retain new talents

 

To inform the Foundation’s roadmap and strategic direction, the Sommet Education Foundation engaged OpinionWay, a pioneering market research institute, to conduct a comprehensive European survey to identify the key factors that attract and retain talents in the hospitality industry. 1,300 young professionals and hospitality HR managers across Europe were interviewed, along with 20 key industry leaders (below) encompassing the broader spectrum of the sector, including hotels, restaurants, travel, tourism, independent, medium-sized and large hotel groups, and high-end retail.

Alain Ducasse, Chef and Founder, École Ducasse

Carole Pourchet, Director General, Majorian

Christelle Grisoni, CEO, Bertrand Hospitality

Christian Catiello, Manager Director Organization, Alpitour World

Christopher Jones, Director General, Brioche Dorée

Cyril Baron, General Manager, Caviar House & Prunier

Eric Frechon, Chef, Meilleur Ouvrier de France

Isabelle de Bardies, Director General – CEO Division, Angelina

Jade Frommer, Co-Founder and CEO, Ephemera

Katrin Melle, Regional Vice President DEI & Talent EAME, Hyatt

Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mandarin Oriental

Maribel Rodriguez, Senior Vice-President, WTTC

Marion Amacker, Associate Director, Morgan Philipps Executive Search

Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, UN Tourism

Nathalie Seiler Hayez, Managing Director, Swiss Deluxe Hotels

Philippe Héry, Managing Director, Hippopotamus

Pierre-Olivier Aguinalin, Chief HR Officer, Hublot (until February 2024)

Sabine Masseglia, Managing Director, St Barts Tourism

Steven Daines, Chief Talent & Culture Officer, Accor

Tigrane Seydoux, Co-Founder, Big Mamma

The research found that the service sector holds considerable appeal for 85% of young professionals across Europe. Three-quarters of young European professionals would be ready to join high-end hotels, restaurants and retail shops, praising the career opportunities, especially internationally, and the people-to-people connections. The survey confirms the overall challenge of the sector throughout Europe, with 59% of HR managers facing employment challenges. 78% state that Generation Z (18 to 28 years old) brings specific challenges around identification, recruitment and loyalty.

 

Hospitality’s unique promise fuels optimism in the sector

Professionals within the sector are resolutely convinced of the depth and appeal of their respective fields, the survey found, with an overwhelming 86% expressing confidence in the sector’s allure. Moreover, they exhibit unwavering faith in their ability to sustain employee commitment, rating it at an impressive 7.5 out of 10.

This sector offers pathways for individuals to advance socially and professionally, regardless of their educational background. It stands out as one of the few industries where individuals can achieve rapid success and take on greater responsibilities over time, effectively climbing the social ladder. This unique promise of upward mobility makes it particularly appealing to many. Furthermore, employers place a premium on motivation, soft skills and service-oriented personalities, prioritising these qualities over formal diplomas and are ready to invest in their talents. The overwhelming majority – 93% of HR managers – emphasise the centrality of training in fostering talent excellence, development and long-term loyalty.

On this subject, Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive at Mandarin Oriental, shared: “Architects design the buildings of tomorrow. I would like people coming out of hospitality schools to be able to design the experience of tomorrow.”

News

Hospitality leaders Les Roches commit to specialised education in sports management and events

Les Roches, one of the world’s leading hospitality management institutions, is launching a new specialised program in sports tourism, the Master’s in Sports Management and Events, starting in September 2024.

The global sports tourism industry was valued at $323,420 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $1,803,704 billion by 2030, according to the international consultancy Allied Market Research, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% over the next six years.

This year alone sees two of the world’s most spectacular sporting events, the UEFA European Foootball Championship in Germany, and the Olympics Games in Paris, which will make them among the most sought-after destinations this summer.

In response to this growing demand, Les Roches has announced the Master’s in Sports Management and Events.

Spanning 12 months, students will delve into the global sports and events industry, gaining essential skills for administrative and managerial roles. This includes analysing the industry’s economic aspects on an international scale and planning and executing events.

As part of the program, students will embark on business field trips to Abu Dhabi, a premier destination renowned for hosting prestigious events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and NBA Games. Additionally, they will visit Switzerland, home to major European sports organisations.

These trips offer invaluable opportunities for students to immerse themselves in real-world settings, network with industry leaders, and gain practical insights into sports management practices on a global scale.

The international sports and events industry offers exceptional professional opportunities, as various destinations, regions and even countries utilise sports to diversify their economies while reinforcing their tourism and hospitality sectors. However, the sports-driven tourism industry is not solely focused on entertainment. The profile of vacationers has also shifted towards a healthier lifestyle. As a result, there has been an increased demand trend for hotel accommodation with attractive sports offers.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, Les Roches Global CEO, said: “Faced with a changing global demand, tourism companies must prepare for a decade filled with new expectations from travellers. Sports tourism is one of them. Over the past years, it has shown very positive growth figures, and we are confident it will continue this trend. Sports is a universal language known to all, which is why companies need to anticipate future trends, aiming to offer their customers excellent service and exquisite experiences. The implementation of this Master’s program represents a firm commitment to education in a field that gains more aspirants each year and requires highly-qualified and specialised personnel.”

 

Currently, Les Roches boasts a global network of over 16,000 alumni holding managerial positions in more than 140 countries worldwide. Of these, 67% secured their first job through school contacts, and 33% successfully launched their own ventures. Upon graduation, students receive an average of five offers from top hospitality, luxury tourism and related services companies and graduates typically triple their pre-degree salary within 12 years.

 

With a 70-year history, Les Roches is at the forefront of innovation in the hospitality sector. Its students gain access each semester to job and internships placements at over 200 leading companies in the hotel, luxury tourism and related industries, such as Louis Vuitton, Accor Hotels, IHG, The Ritz-Carlton, Soho House & Co, Mandarin Oriental, Marriott International, Silversea, Qatar Airways and Hublot, among others.

 

In addition, numerous Les Roches alumni already hold successful positions and have made significant contributions in sports management and events in some of the biggest sports brands and businesses such as Formula 1, FIFA, Nike, Netflix and the Olympic Committee.

News

Leisure company submits multi-million pound plans for new holiday park development

MULTI-MILLION pound plans have been submitted for the development of a spectacular state-of-the-art leisure complex at a popular holiday park.

SF Parks submitted proposals for a six-lane bowling alley, rooftop bar, extended amusement arcade and relocated reception and offices at its Golden Gate Holiday Centre in Towyn.

The revamped facilities will complement a new swimming pool and recently renovated clubhouse on-site and come as the business seeks to increase the current 7 ½ month season to 10 ½ months in a bid to further boost the local economy and create more full-time jobs.

Doing so would also mean these high-quality attractions could be used by caravan owners and the public throughout the year.

It is another significant investment by directors Oliver and Jonathan Seldon, who want to build the seaside town’s reputation as a popular tourist destination.

“Bringing people to the area throughout the year, not just in the summer, is vital for Towyn and surrounding areas,” said Jonathan.

“Which is why the application to extend the season at Golden Gate to 10 ½ months goes hand-in-hand with our plans to transform the leisure facilities and continue improving the experience for our loyal customers.”

Oliver added: “Our plans for Golden Gate and White House will be followed by improvements at our other parks, as across the portfolio we want to continue creating high-quality facilities for families to enjoy.

“We have had tremendous feedback from owners, from the community and businesses who all want to see more things to do, more jobs and a thriving Towyn all-year round – our commitment to further investment reflects that.”

In addition to White House and Golden Gate – which host more than 830 caravans – SF Parks owns Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele.

Plans for Golden Gate come just months after a successful application to build a new high ropes course, spa, sauna, and gym complex and wine bar at neighbouring White House Leisure Park.

That will be followed by an upgrade to Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, accompanying existing facilities including a crazy golf course and food and drinks outlets, plus ‘The Jump’, an adrenaline-fuelled activity where customers can leap from a three or six-foot platform onto a giant airbag.

For more information and to contact SF Parks, email opteam@sfparks.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit www.whitehouseleisurepark.com or www.seldonsgoldengate.co.uk.

News

Holiday park to unveil high ropes course as bosses await green light for new ‘Jump’ attraction

A NEW adventure attraction for thrill-seekers and families will be unveiled this weekend.

Following significant investment, SF Parks is to launch the much-anticipated high ropes course at its White House Leisure Park in Towyn on Saturday (May 27).

This latest addition to the park will be followed by an upgrade to Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, complementing existing facilities including a crazy golf course and food and drinks outlets.

And it comes as the family-owned business awaits planning permission for another adrenaline-fuelled activity – The Jump – where customers can leap from a three or six-foot platform onto a giant airbag.

SF Parks, which also owns Golden Gate in Towyn, Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele, has big plans for the future.

Director Jonathan Seldon says these exciting developments are just the start.

“The response to the high ropes course and all of our plans has been really positive, so we thank everyone for their support,” he added.

“Our loyal customers are always top priority and enhancing their experience is paramount, which is why we will continue to make improvements and introduce more exhilarating and engaging attractions across the SF Parks portfolio.”

Fellow director Oliver Seldon reinforced those comments and revealed their overall vision will lead to more developments in the months ahead.

“This new attraction and The Jump – should we receive the green light next month – show how committed we are to our customers and also the local economy, supporting small businesses and creating full-time and seasonal jobs,” he said.

“We will continue to improve standards, embrace innovation and keep investing in all of our parks as that will have a lasting impact not just on SF Parks but the region’s tourism sector.”

The high ropes course will be open to the public and visitors can book in person or by visiting the company’s website. SF Parks caravan owners will pay a discounted rate.

For more information and to contact SF Parks, email opteam@sfparks.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit www.whitehouseleisurepark.com or www.seldonsgoldengate.co.uk.

News

Green light for holiday park development as leisure firm goes from strength to strength

A LEADING leisure company creating jobs and supporting the coastal economy is making a significant investment in two of its key holiday parks.

SF Parks has received planning permission to build a new high ropes course, spa, sauna, and gym complex and wine bar at White House Leisure Park in Towyn.

The development will also feature an upgrade to the popular Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, complementing existing facilities including a crazy golf course and food and drinks outlets.

The good news comes as directors Jonathan and Oliver Seldon put forward proposals to construct a rooftop bar, bowling alley, reception area and extend the arcade at the neighbouring Golden Gate Holiday Centre.

The business – which has five parks in North Wales, employing up to 120 full time and seasonal staff – is also looking to increase the current 7 ½ month season to 10 ½ months at Golden Gate in a bid to employ more full-time workers and increase spend in the local area all-year round.

“We are pleased to receive the green light and thankful to Conwy’s planning team and councillors for their support,” said Jonathan.

“Our vision is to keep enhancing the customer experience, keep investing in our parks and most importantly, contribute to the local economy through jobs and tourism.

“As well as the improvements we are making to our facilities, we are pushing to increase the season from 7 ½ months to 10 ½ months because that will enable us to recruit more people full time, rather than seasonal workers, which in turn will have a positive effect on employment in this area and allow owners to enjoy the park facilities for a longer period.

“Our aim is for Towyn to be busy all the time, not just for part of the year, so we hope to receive positive news on that front soon.”

He added: “The investment we are making at White House and Golden Gate is significant and to be followed by upgrades to our other parks.

“We are always looking at the bigger picture and want to expand in the future, while at the same time building on the overall customer experience and developing our identity as one of the region’s top hospitality and tourism operators.”

In addition to White House and Golden Gate – which host more than 830 caravans – SF Parks owns Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele.

Oliver believes their commitment to the North Wales coast and becoming an even more sustainable organisation will stand them in good stead post-pandemic.

He said: “We are bringing all five of our parks in line with the wider brand so across the board we can continue to enhance and improve our offering for our caravan owners and guests.

“As White House and Golden Gate are so close it makes sense for them to become more integrated, so owners can enjoy these improved facilities long-term.

“We will soon be in consultation on the Golden Gate plans and will be keen to receive feedback and suggestions; we always want to hear from our customers, as well as the local community, because they are a big part of this.”

Jim Jones, CEO of North Wales Tourism, congratulated SF Parks on its commitment to improving the Conwy coastline, supporting local jobs and tourism.

“The revitalisation of our seaside towns through investment is essential in helping to boost the local economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and our community alike,” he said.

“I am pleased to see the plans from Jonathan and Oliver Seldon and think they will bring much-needed entertainment and job opportunities to the area. Let’s hope all the proposals receive approval and contribute to the rejuvenation of these wonderful coastal areas.”

For more information and to contact SF Parks, email opteam@sfparks.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit www.whitehouseleisurepark.com or www.seldonsgoldengate.co.uk.

News

Fast-growing StayCotswold moves to new HQ

A fast-growing Cotswolds holiday home rentals business has moved to bigger premises as it embarks on the next phase of its expansion.

StayCotswold has relocated from an office in Burford, Oxfordshire, to a double-fronted shop in the centre of Stow-on-the-Wold.

The former greetings card shop on Digbeth Street has been fitted out to accommodate StayCotswold’s growing team.

StayCotswold was founded in 2009 by Fergus Mitchell and, in April 2021, a team of professionals with vast experience in the holiday cottages sector acquired the business. Fergus has remained as a director and shareholder.

The team comprises Mat Faraday, Tom Burdett and Tracy Archer. Mat co-founded Character Cottages, which was sold to Pure Cottages Group in 2018. Tom is a former managing director of Character Cottages and Tracy was previously sales and marketing director at Pure Cottages Group.

StayCotswold had just three staff when the trio acquired the business. Following a period of rapid growth, its team has increased in size to 13.

The number of properties in its portfolio has more than doubled from 60 to 140 since the business changed hands, and bookings per property have significantly increased to an average of 50 a year. Booking levels this summer were 13 per cent ahead of the same period in 2021.

StayCotswold’s portfolio includes typical Cotswold cottages, luxurious converted barns, manor houses and farmhouses as well as a burgeoning collection of shepherd’s huts and cabins, which are proving increasingly popular for being closer to the outdoors. The StayCotswold portfolio can cater for two people all the way to groups of up to 28.

Tracy said the Cotswolds are in growing demand for short breaks, especially among people living in the London area seeking an escape to the countryside. The area is also proving a magnet for overseas visitors who want a taste of rural England and are being attracted to the UK by the fall in value of the pound.

“The Cotswolds is an area of outstanding beauty and is also home to a whole range of major attractions and events, including the private members’ club Soho Farmhouse, Daylesford Organic Farm and the Big Feastival music festival,” said Tracy.

“We are looking to add dozens more properties over the coming months to cater for the increased demand, as we believe the market for holiday rentals in the Cotswolds will continue to grow.

“Our experienced team has a friendly, enthusiastic can-do attitude and possess plenty of knowledge about the area, as well as what makes a great property and will sell well, so they are extremely well-placed to offer expert advice.

“As well as expanding the team, we’ve invested in relevant technology to provide a dynamic, variable pricing structure that benefits owners and guests alike, and a fully-optimised website that takes direct bookings for all our properties.

“Alongside this we developed the business branding to reflect the quality of our homes and to bring to life the whole experience of what a holiday in the Cotswolds can offer. Our guests know that their holiday experience will be authentic, and our owners know that their property is in the best local hands.

“We know from our previous experience that a high street location is the optimum place to be for the business.

“Relocating to fantastic new headquarters in the centre of Stow and being so accessible to owners and potential guests makes it a truly exciting time for the business and demonstrates our confidence in our offering and the potential for the brand.”

Events, International News, News, Space, Tech

SUTUS 2022: First space hotel and Cousteau’s International Ocean Station to be explored at the world’s largest space and underwater tourism summit

The first space hotel planned for 2027 and the International Ocean Station which aims to be operational by 2026 are among the projects being presented at SUTUS 2022, the world’s largest space and underwater tourism event.

From 28-30 September, SUTUS – the Space & Underwater Tourism Universal Summit – will bring together prestigious institutions and international stakeholders for the third edition of this pioneering conference at Les Roches Marbella.

Taking place in a hybrid format, with the first day in person and two other virtual days, SUTUS has positioned itself as the benchmark forum for the world’s main space agencies. Last year it attracted NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and these organisations return alongside the International Space University, Space Tourism Society and Swiss Space Tourism.

More than 30 companies will also be present to update on the progress of their initiatives. These include Orbital Assembly, the first hotel with accommodation for tourists in space; Axiom Space, which aims to create cities in space; SpaceVIP, dedicated to “space literacy” and inspiring the next generation of private astronauts; and the Space Tourism Society, focused on “commercialising” the growing range of space experiences (real spaceflight, movies, games and even virtual worlds). Nancy Vermeulen, private astronaut trainer at the Space Training Academy, and retired astronaut commander Susan Kilrain, who will reflect on her experience beyond planet Earth, also feature.

Meanwhile, the still unexplored marine world will be evoked by international speakers such as Fabien Cousteau (grandson of famous undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau) and his International Ocean Station; Aaron Olivera, founder and CEO of Earth 300, a global environmental and science project created in a futuristic superyacht whose main objective is to combat climate change; and Scott Waters, president of Pisces VI Submarine, who will talk about diving tourism in the Canary Islands.

The creation of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) is the main theme of the Spanish presence at this annual event. Álvaro Giménez Cañete, Special Delegate for AEE, will present the action plan for this new organisation, whose headquarters a dozen cities, including Seville, Tres Cantos (Madrid), Teruel, León, Puertollano (Ciudad Real), and the Canary Islands are currently vying to host.

In addition, SUTUS will welcome renowned speakers such as underwater archaeologist Carlota Pérez Reverte, aspiring ESA astronauts Carmen García-Roger and Jorge Pla-García, and Spanish companies in the space race including Green Moon Project, which is working towards space agriculture and habitability; and Zero 2 Infinity, a company that develops high-altitude balloons to provide access to the area around space and the low-Earth orbit using a capsule and launcher transported by balloons.

Organised by Les Roches Marbella with Medina Media Events, the event will host a demonstration area on campus where representatives of each company participating will be able to present their tourism-related projects, thus opening up the experience to all those visiting the school’s facilities. Virtual attendees and registered companies can follow all sessions via streaming and schedule video meetings with other participants and speakers, as well as visit exclusive online demos. All details, along with the agenda and registration for the three days, are now available at www.sutusummit.com.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches, said: “We are delighted that we have managed to bring the best agencies and representatives of the most exciting projects in the world to this congress, the most important in the world in the discussion of tourism in the two borders that we have over our heads and under our feet.”

Luxury tourism in Europe, which focuses on the cosmos and water, is worth between 130,000 and 170,000 million euros a year, 22% of the sector’s total income, according to consultancy firm Bain & Company. Last year saw the beginning of a revolution in the history of the cosmos, when Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, flew his rocket to an altitude of 106km for ten minutes, ushering in the era of commercial space travel. The search for both original and personalised experiences is propelling the future of luxury tourism towards new destinations, reaffirming the entrenchment of premium tourism across the world.

News, North of England, Travel

Study Reveals over 50% of Brits Prefer Staycations to International Travel in 2022

A new study has revealed that over half of Brits are more likely to holiday in the UK rather than travel abroad in 2022. Commissioned by 5* hotel, BLVD in Blackpool, 52% of those surveyed were in favour of booking a domestic trip amidst the ongoing international travel chaos and post-pandemic staycation boom.

 Polling 2,000 Brits, research carried out by OnePoll on behalf of the hotel, saw almost half of respondents (40%) citing a beach as the most important factor when choosing a destination, with a further 50% stating that local attractions play a big part in their decision-making.

The research was commissioned by BLVD, a boutique hotel based in Blackpool, which opened in 2019 just a few short months before the first Covid-19 lockdown. With the aim of providing a more luxurious experience in the seaside destination, BLVD is the latest offering from fourth-generation family-run Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which runs both the famous theme park and The Big Blue Hotel.

Commenting on the findings, Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO, said:

“With the ongoing issues around international flights and staffing shortages causing travel chaos for holiday-makers, it’s no surprise that so many people are choosing to stay within the UK to avoid the uncertainty of travelling further afield. This research from OnePoll shows that 2022 is the start of a true renaissance for the nation’s staycations; not just as we’ve seen during the previous lockdowns, but with people actively choosing to discover areas closer to home.

 “We’re a destination that has long been associated with nostalgic family holidays, but we have a big opportunity to really help people discover the often-untapped beauty of the North West. For all of our guests, from those who are re-visiting to first timers, we’re so proud to be able to offer them a luxury experience here in Blackpool.”

 The OnePoll research also revealed that proximity to other locations, such as the countryside, was crucial to 47% of respondents. Blackpool is one of the UK’s best-loved seaside towns, with direct links to neighbouring regions such as the Lake District and the Forest of Bowland, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just a short 45-minute drive away.

The results also showed the importance of luxury accommodation as part of staycation planning, with 42% of people opting for higher standards of accommodation as their main motivation when booking a holiday. A further 57% of respondents also said that they’d be more inclined to consider a destination like Blackpool if impressive hotels and memorable dining experiences were nearby.

Located on the promenade, BLVD is already making a name for itself as a must-visit North West Hotel, recently being named in the top 10% of all hotels worldwide in the 2021 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards. The award-winning location boasts 120 stylish rooms, including eight junior suites, two park view suites, eight coastal suites and family rooms with a mixture of coastal and park-facing rooms.