News
World’s most valuable hotel brands revealed
The leading brand valuation and strategy consultancy Brand Finance evaluated and ranked the most powerful and valuable hotel brands.
Hilton is by far the most valuable brand, with a value of US$7.8 billion up by a third on last year’s value of US$5.8 billion. Hilton is also the most valuable group in the table. Six Hilton Worldwide brands feature in the top 50, totaling US$13.3 billion from Hilton at the top of the table to the Waldorf Astoria, which props up the bottom of the table in 50th. This is a hugely impressive feat for a brand with just one location. Its brand value stands at over US$200 million.
Marriott is in second place with a brand value of US$5.3 billion. Its group has even more brands in the top 50 than Hilton, with 8 in total, however their combined value is lower, at US$12 billion. Having already acquired the Delta group of hotels, Marriott is attempting to merge with Starwood, the third most significant group by brand value, its six brands being valued at US$6.7 billion.
This move would create the world’s biggest hotel group with the most valuable brand portfolio. However Marriott continues to be frustrated and outbid by Anbang Insurance Group, a Chinese insurance conglomerate.
Brand Finance Chief Executive David Haigh commented, “As disruptors such as Airbnb create an ever more challenging environment for traditional operators, a new wave of investment from the likes of Anbang Insurance Groups is to be welcomed, however frustrating it may seem. Brand investment in particular is key in this fast-changing environment.”
Celebration
Experience renewal and celebration at The Westin Maldives this Lunar New Year
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites guests to celebrate the Chinese New Year with its event, ‘Lunar Reflection: An Uplifting Beginning in the Year of the Wood Snake’. Situated within the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort provides a serene environment for a rejuvenating holiday that harmoniously combines Maldivian hospitality with vibrant New Year festivities.
From January 28 to February 12, 2025, the resort offers a range of thoughtfully curated experiences. The celebrations commence with the Prosperity Buffet Dinner at Island Kitchen, featuring an Asian-inspired menu in a festive atmosphere. For a more intimate dining experience, the Taste of Asia at Hawker showcases a family-style sharing menu infused with regional flavours.
Festivities continue with a Lunar Pool Party, where music, cocktails, and festive cheer create a lively atmosphere under the Maldivian sun. As the evening unfolds, guests can enjoy a buffet dinner blending international and Chinese cuisines at Island Kitchen. Additional culinary highlights during the celebration include Izakaya Night at Pearl and the exclusive Chef & Sommelier Dinner, where Executive Chef Fahdrul and his team present a meticulously crafted menu paired with fine wines.
The Heavenly Spa by Westin offers rejuvenation through the ‘Lunar Detox Ritual’, available throughout the celebration period. This restorative spa package includes a detoxifying green tea body wrap followed by a 60-minute massage with a herbal poultice, designed to leave guests refreshed and invigorated for the year ahead.
Families are also catered to with engaging activities at the Westin Family Kids Club. Children can participate in creative workshops such as crafting Hong Bao, making snake puppets, and designing lanterns. Adventure seekers can explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs of the Baa Atoll using complimentary snorkelling and ocean kayaking equipment, immersing themselves in the underwater wonders that make the region a diver’s paradise.
Renowned for its thoughtful design, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort emphasises comfort and sustainability. Its spacious overwater and beach villas, featuring the award-winning Heavenly Bed and panoramic ocean views, offer a luxurious retreat. Guests are encouraged to embrace the resort’s wellness pillars, which promote eating, sleeping, moving, feeling, and playing well.
Love
Dream romantic getaway at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites couples to celebrate love this Valentine’s season with its exclusive Romantic Escape Offer. Set on the picturesque island of Furanafushi in the North Malé Atoll, this luxurious five-star resort is a haven of tranquility and romance. Enveloped by crystal-clear lagoons, powder-soft white sands, and thoughtfully curated amenities, the resort offers an idyllic sanctuary for creating unforgettable memories.
Nestled within a secluded natural paradise, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa provides an intimate escape designed to inspire connection. Guests can retreat to elegant Overwater Villas, each designed in timeless Maldivian style and offering direct access to a serene lagoon. With a harmonious blend of Robinson Crusoe-inspired rustic charm and modern comforts, the resort epitomises barefoot luxury. The soothing rhythm of the ocean invites relaxation, while snorkelling adventures and breathtaking views set the perfect stage for love stories to unfold.
The resort pampers couples with a journey of rejuvenation at Shine Spa for Sheraton, a serene sanctuary set on its own private island amidst tropical greenery. The experience begins with a 50-minute aromatherapy massage for two, followed by two additional bespoke treatments. Using ingredients sourced from the surrounding ocean and gardens, each treatment ensures an immersive and restorative escape. The calming sounds of rolling waves enhance the tranquil atmosphere, creating an oasis of serenity.
Evenings at the resort are transformed into a feast for the senses. A private, five-course degustation dinner under-the-stars, complemented by premium wines, delivers an intimate dining experience. For an added touch of romance, the resort has curated bespoke events to enrich the Valentine’s celebration. On February 13, couples can gather around a crackling bonfire to toast s’mores beneath the Maldivian night sky. On Valentine’s Day, couples can savor a candlelit beach dinner, accompanied by the soothing symphony of waves. To conclude the festivities, February 15 features a sunset wine tasting, offering a chance to sip fine wines while watching the sun sink below the horizon.
Celebrate love in the most idyllic setting imaginable. Book the Romantic Escape Offer today and let Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa craft the perfect Valentine’s Day experience, turning dreams into cherished memories.
For more information, visit the website at sheratonmaldives.com or book your Romantic Escape here.
Awards
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives wins ‘Best Overseas Hotel’ award at Voyage Best Hotel & Resort Awards 2024
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives has received the prestigious title of “Best Overseas Hotel” at the 2024 Voyage Best Hotel & Resort Awards. This esteemed recognition ranks the resort among the top 50 hotels most cherished by the Chinese travel market.
This award reflects The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives’ exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and distinctive hospitality that deeply resonates with Chinese travelers. The recognition is based on the hotel’s excellent online reputation, built through glowing reviews and feedback from Chinese guests, highlighting its unwavering commitment to providing extraordinary guest experiences.
“We are thrilled and deeply honored to receive this recognition from Voyage Magazine,” said Amar Lalvani, President & Creative Director, Lifestyle Hyatt Hotels Corporation. “The Chinese travel market is a key focus for The Standard, and this award underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences tailored to our guests. It is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team. We look forward to further strengthening our connection with Chinese travelers and welcoming more guests to discover the unique charm of The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives.”
Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, The Standard offers a perfect blend of tropical tranquility and vibrant energy, making it a sought-after destination for global travelers. With this award, the resort continues to cement its reputation as a premier choice for luxury and innovation in the hospitality industry.
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