Lifestyle
Social media remains vital to hotels
Social media offers a tremendous opportunity for the boutique hotel sector to compete with larger international chain hotels.
Addressing delegates at the Boutique Hotel Summit 2013, Niki Leondakis said: “Social media has grown to become one of the most important and levelling aspects of marketing today, offering the opportunity for boutique hotels to connect with their guests as never before.”
Social media channels – including Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Flickr – allow hotel brands to “emotionally engage” with guests, building loyalty, Leondakis explained.
Delivery the keynote address at the summit, Leondakis added: “Guests can learn about our brands, allowing them to make a selection based on shared lifestyle affinities, through our shared love of art, design or fashion, for example.”
“Through social media we have the opportunity to groom guests before they arrive, to build that relationship.”
Leondakis also stressed the concrete results of a successful social media strategy, pointing out Google Analytics now allowed hotels to directly track revenue through the various channels.
She explained Thomson Hotels, of the two brands under the Commune umbrella, had determined guests who were ‘fans’ of its properties on a social media channel spent 35 per cent more during a stay than those who were not.
These guests also booked direct through the Thomson site, reducing revue lost to third party booking engines, while also rebooking at other properties within the portfolio.
There were also other advantages to social media, allowing boutique hotels to improve their searchability on search engines, for example, while also boosting partnership opportunities, allowing hotels to introduce customers to similar aspirations brands.
In future, technology will redefine the hotel sector, Leondakis argued, allowing hotels to offer customisable in room entertainment, for example.
The ability to check in remotely using a smart phone and to open room doors with the same device, will follow in the not to distant future, she added.
Entertainment
Waldorf Astoria Maldives hosts iconic beachside concert with Chris De Burgh
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is preparing to elevate the romance and charm of Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable evening featuring iconic singer-songwriter Chris De Burgh. Renowned for timeless hits such as ‘The Lady in Red’ and ‘Missing You’, De Burgh will perform an exclusive beachside concert on February 14, 2025, combining world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and the romantic allure of the Maldives.
The concert will take place under the stars on the resort’s pristine beaches, surrounded by the soothing sound of ocean waves and candlelit tables. Guests will enjoy an intimate live performance by one of the music industry’s most enduring artists. The evening will begin with an elegant BBQ dinner, paired with premium bubbly and live music from the resort’s resident duo band, culminating in De Burgh’s soul-stirring performance beneath a starlit sky.
With a career spanning over five decades and more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, Chris De Burgh’s music has touched hearts across generations. His live performances are celebrated for their intimacy and passion, promising a Valentine’s experience where love, music, and the magic of the Maldives converge into an unforgettable evening.
This bespoke event is priced at USD 595++ per person and includes a thoughtfully curated package designed to enhance the romantic experience. The package features:
- A luxurious beachside BBQ dinner
- A bottle of premium bubbly per couple
- A romantic beach setup to create lasting memories
- A bouquet of fresh flowers
- An exclusive Valentine’s in-room amenity
To further enhance the celebration, Waldorf Astoria Maldives is offering a special room package for guests staying between February 12 and 17, 2025. Requiring a minimum stay of three nights, this package includes the exclusive dinner experience. Guests can book directly online to ensure a seamless journey to this enchanting escape. From personalised service to the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean, the resort provides the perfect backdrop for love and celebration.
This exclusive event highlights Waldorf Astoria Maldives’ commitment to elevating the art of hospitality. The resort continues to transform guest experiences by offering extraordinary, bespoke events that seamlessly combine world-class entertainment with luxurious amenities. The ‘Exclusive Celebration with Chris De Burgh’ exemplifies this vision, blending exceptional artistry with the unparalleled charm of the Maldives for a truly unforgettable occasion.
Featured
Moo Ge: Oaga Art Resort’s new creative hub redefines artistic experiences
Oaga Art Resort has introduced Moo Ge, a significant addition to its artistic offerings. More than a gallery, Moo Ge serves as a versatile space where creativity flourishes. Designed to be flexible and multifunctional, it operates as a movement studio, performance venue, exhibition centre, and creative haven. This dynamic environment supports artists across various disciplines, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, collaboration, and warmth.
As part of the Suvaasthi ecosystem, which emphasises the expression of happiness, Moo Ge enhances Oaga’s dedication to celebrating art as a source of joy and personal growth. Together, these spaces contribute to building a connected artistic community that resonates within the Maldives and extends beyond.
Moo Ge officially opened on January 7th with a curated collection from Watercolour Journals of Nazimbe, an exhibition first showcased at the National Art Gallery in January 2024. This extraordinary collection, featuring over 100 paintings by renowned Maldivian artist Ahmed Nazim (Nazimbe), highlights his shift from oil to watercolour and his introspective maritime storytelling. Selected works from this celebrated series are on display at Suvaasthi Gallery from January 7th to January 21st, marking Moo Ge’s inauguration as a sanctuary for creativity and inspiration.
Guests are encouraged to experience the resort’s all-inclusive offerings by booking their stay at Oaga Art Resort. The Greatest All-Inclusive plan includes unique experiences such as Free Flow (art) sessions, Take Notes (music) experiences, floating meals, excursions, motorised water-sports, and more.
Entertainment
Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell bring intimate performances to Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in collaboration with event organisers Music in Paradise, has announced that Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell will perform at the private island resort from September 6 to 13, 2025. This week-long event offers a blend of tropical island relaxation with three intimate performances set on the beach and at the resort’s rooftop Sunset Bar, along with exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. Additionally, rumours suggest that the duo, known for their love of Espresso Martinis, might make a surprise appearance behind the bar.
Anthony Callea, an ARIA Award-winning artist, is celebrated as one of Australia’s most accomplished vocalists and entertainers. With a career spanning two decades, he boasts eight albums, TV concert specials, numerous tours, and appearances at major events and on television. His latest album, ‘FORTY LOVE*’, released in October 2022 to commemorate his 40th birthday, debuted at No. 5 on the ARIA album chart. Over the years, Callea has performed for HM Queen Elizabeth II, Luciano Pavarotti, and other notable figures, while also touring with music legends such as Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross.
Tim Campbell is widely recognised as one of Australia’s most versatile and beloved entertainers, excelling in acting, hosting, musical theatre, and recording. He is best known for his role as Dan Baker in ‘Home & Away’ and Tom Parker in the Logie Award-winning series ‘House Husbands’. Campbell’s extensive musical theatre repertoire includes roles such as Roger in ‘Rent’, Johnny O’Keefe in ‘SHOUT! The Legend of the Wild One’, Bobby in ‘The Boyfriend’, Fiyero in ‘Wicked’, and Corny Collins in the national tour of ‘Hairspray the Arena Spectacular’. As a recording artist, his debut album, ‘High School Disco’, released in 2014, debuted at No. 25 on the ARIA charts.
In 2023, Callea and Campbell joined forces for their ‘Up Close & Unpredictable’ live concert tour across Australia. They also performed a series of shows at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall and the Sydney Opera House, celebrating the music of Elton John and George Michael.
A VIP Experience package for this exclusive event is available for A$3,890 per person (twin share) and includes seven nights in a two-story Beach House at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. The package features:
- Entry to three exclusive events
- Three intimate performances
- Meet-and-greet with Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell
- A professional photo with the performers
- Music in Paradise welcome bag
- Event poster and commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Daily buffet breakfast at Kandooma Café
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water replenished daily in the villa
- A group yoga session
- A group “Learn to Surf” experience
- Complimentary snorkel trip and snorkelling gear use
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
This unique event promises an unforgettable experience, combining world-class entertainment with the serene beauty of the Maldives. Additional package details can be found at Music in Paradise’s official website.
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