Thursday 29 February 2024

Exploring KZN South Coast Beaches: Safety Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

With warm, sunny days ahead, the KZN South Coast beckons visitors to its stunning beaches. As a top adventure destination boasting family-friendly offerings, it's no wonder that this region is home to the highest number of Blue Flag beaches and tidal pools in the province. The Blue Flag certification, an international standard for environmental management, ensures water quality, safety, and public environmental education, making it a coveted recognition in the tourism industry.


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Tuesday 27 February 2024

Redefining Hospitality: Radisson Hotel Group's Strategic Vision for 2024 and Beyond in the Middle East and Africa

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) solidified its position as one of the leading international hotel groups in the Middle East and Africa during 2023 by signing 22 hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments, adding over 3,800 rooms to its regional portfolio, remaining dedicated to its vision of being among the top three hotel brands globally and the preferred choice for owners, guests, and employees.


Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit Pool
Globally, the Group wrapped up 2023 with exceptional growth, adding over 30,000 keys to its international portfolio of 10 leading brands through openings and signings. The Group has grown its business by nearly 50% since the launch of its transformation plan in 2018. It also celebrated a new company record with the addition of its largest number of keys to its portfolio, amounting to over 30,000 keys through openings and signings. Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be a landmark year for Radisson Hotel Group, with 14 new hotel openings slated across various countries in the Middle East and Africa. These openings reflect the ongoing commitment to offering exceptional hospitality experiences while catering to the growing demand for premium accommodation in these regions.
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit Pegasus Bar


Expansion momentum continues in Africa

In Africa, the Group maintained its expansion momentum in 2023, with eight hotel signings, adding over 1,600 rooms to its robust African Portfolio. With this progress, it is well on its way to achieving its objective of reaching 150 hotels in Africa over the next five years, up from its current count of 100 hotels. These hotel signings included new market entries into Gambia with Radisson Blu Beach Resort & Spa, Banjul and Radisson Hotel Benin City in Nigeria. In addition to the Radisson hotel in Benin City, the signing of Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja; Radisson Blu Hotel, Abuja CBD and Radisson RED Lagos VI further strengthened the Group’s position as the market leaders in Nigeria, with its portfolio now expanding to 12 hotels and over 1700 rooms. Highlighting the Group’s priorities in Africa for 2024, Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Business Development for Africa and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, said, “We have an exciting year ahead with five hotel openings in Africa, reinforcing our market leader stance in our key countries such as Egypt, Morocco and South Africa but also maintaining the fastest growth across the continent in tangible openings. Building on the momentum of the Radisson Collection Resort, Marsa Alam Port Phoenice signing, introducing the Radisson Collection brand in the country with an exceptional resort, we will also open the first standalone serviced apartments in Egypt with Radisson Residences Cairo Heliopolis within the coming months.” In Morocco, Radisson Hotel Group further enhances its flourishing portfolio with the highly anticipated opening of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier, the debut of the Radisson brand in Morocco, scheduled for Q2. This latest opening adds to much anticipation of the growing potential of the country which the Group has made its priority. In South Africa, Radisson Hotel Group is set to add its 12th hotel with the opening of Radisson Hotel Middelburg later this year, following the successful opening of its first safari hotel in Africa with the recently announced Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit. “In addition to these key markets, we are proactively pursuing East Africa this year, with Kenya and Tanzania identified as market priorities. As resorts continue to play an important role in our global strategic growth plan, we will build on our successful resort expansion in Africa, which has included the recent openings of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone and our debut in Reunion Island with the opening of Radisson Hotel Saint Denis” adds Ramsay Rankoussi. Over the past three years, Radisson Hotel Group has emerged as the fastest-growing hotel group in Africa, with 20 hotel openings across the continent. This impressive feat has set a record for the Group in terms of the realization of its pipeline into openings and has translated into a commendable 15 percent annual growth on its African portfolio.
Radisson Red Lagos Render Suite Bedroom

Radisson Hotel Benin City Night Facade

Radisson Collection Hotel Conference Center Abuja Nigeria 

Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD Exterior

Strategic focus on the Middle East

In the Middle East the Group opened over 1,000 keys in the past 12 months and is on track to open 2,000 keys in 2024. The Group continues to drive its aspirations in the region, targeting 150 properties to be operational or under development across the Middle East by 2030. In the last quarter of 2023, Radisson Hotel Group revealed new hotels across Oman: Muscat Levatio Suites, a member of Radisson Individuals and Radisson Hotel Muscat Panorama, as well as opening the first Radisson Individuals in Saudi Arabia, with the opening of Vivid Jeddah, A Radisson Individuals hotel. In addition to these openings, the Group has also signed agreements for Park Inn by Radisson Resort Bimmah and Radisson Serviced Apartments Salalah. In Jordan, Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall opened its doors in offering 178 keys catering to travelers seeking convenience and luxury. Further, the Group was proud to announce the signing of Radisson Hotel & Residences Erbil, in Iraq’s vibrant city of Erbil which also opened during the course of the year, opening a new market and significant development destination for the Group. In addition, Pakistan remains a focus for the Group by signing four hotels and serviced apartments in the capital city of Islamabad with the first opening in this new market anticipated for 2025. Looking ahead, the Group plans further expansion in Makkah with the highly anticipated debut of Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thaker West and of Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher East in Q1 with new standards for contemporary lodging in the holy city of Makkah to meet the needs of an increasing number of international and regional visitors. Also set for opening in early 2024 is Radisson Hotel Jeddah Tahlia Street and as well as the introduction of the Park Inn by Radisson brand to Kuwait with the opening of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments Kuwait. Elie Milky, Vice President Business Development, Middle East, Greece, Cyprus, and Pakistan at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “Our ambitions remain strong as we continue our robust expansion efforts in the region, focusing particularly on resorts as well as serviced apartments. We continue to penetrate new markets as we have seen in Erbil and Amman while we strengthen our position with strategic owners in established cities such as Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait, Makkah and Muscat, to name a few. Our value proposition to our existing and new owners continues to improve with a comprehensive brand offering and a pragmatic conversions approach to drive openings.” The Group also received the Sustainable Business Award at the Global Travel Hall of Fame, validating the company's dedication to responsible travel and tourism. The Group was also recognized at A World for Travel with the Environmental Impact Award for its role in the development of the Hotel Sustainability Basics. RadissonHotels.com, the Group’s leading website, and app won a total of five prestigious awards, in particular for its pioneering and industry-leading Immersive Content Project.


Radisson Collection Resort Marsa Alam Port Phoenice


Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle Exterior

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Tuesday 20 February 2024

Explore South Africa Responsibly this Easter: TravelWise Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

As Easter approaches, travelers are gearing up for a memorable Sho't Left adventure across the diverse landscapes of South Africa. With its breathtaking scenery and rich cultures, Mzansi promises an unparalleled holiday experience for those seeking rest, relaxation, and exploration.


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Monday 19 February 2024

Experience the Magic of Cinema: Joburg Film Festival 2024 Unveils Exciting Lineup

With less than a month left until the highly anticipated 2024 edition of the Joburg Film Festival, movie enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as organizers, alongside partner MultiChoice, unveil a spectacular lineup of over 60 titles set to grace the big screen.


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Celebrating Valentine's Day in Style with LIFT: A Lekker Local Experience

Valentine's Day 2024 was more than just chocolates and roses for lucky passengers aboard the 09:30 flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Proudly South African, in collaboration with LIFT, orchestrated a remarkable Fashion Show in The Sky, surprising travelers with a unique blend of fashion and patriotism. As unsuspecting passengers settled into their seats, they were greeted with roses and Nestlé Kit Kat, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.


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Monday 5 February 2024

My Valentine's Weekend Retreat at The Capital Zimbali

Are you seeking the perfect getaway to ignite the flames of romance? Look no further than The Capital Zimbali—a haven of luxury nestled along the pristine coastline of KwaZulu-Natal. Join me as I recount my enchanting Valentine's weekend retreat at this exquisite destination, filled with indulgence, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.

Romantic Valentine's Day getaway at The Capital Zimbali: Breakfast included, chocolate heart, and optional Valentine's dinner with live entertainment


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Sunday 4 February 2024

Indulge in Sunday Luxury: The Maslow Sandton Picnic Experience

What better way to spend a leisurely Sunday afternoon than surrounded by good food, refreshing drinks, and great company? At The Maslow Sandton, the first Sunday of every month beckons with an exquisite picnic experience set amidst lush lawns, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.


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Unveiling KFC Play Braam: A Revolutionary Dining Experience in Johannesburg

As a passionate traveler and food enthusiast, stepping into the revolutionary world of KFC Play Braam was an experience unlike any other. Located in the heart of Johannesburg's bustling Play Braamfontein precinct, this concept store promised a fusion of flavors, fashion, and digital delights that piqued the blogger's curiosity.


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Friday 2 February 2024

MSC CRUISES OPENS SALES FOR SOUTH AFRICAN 2024/25 SEASON BRINGING THE MSC MUSICA

Embark on an unforgettable journey as MSC Cruises opens sales for its South Africa 2024/25 sailing season, spotlighting the magnificent MSC Musica. Set to commence in November 2024 from the newly inaugurated R 330 million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban, the season promises 34 enchanting sailings, concluding in April 2025 with departures from the picturesque Cape Town.


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