News

 Westin Hotels & Resorts announced the launch ofProject Rise: ThreadForward, an unprecedented sustainability program that collects, processes and reweaves hotel bed linens transforming them into thousands of pairs of children’s pajamas.  The first-of-its-kind pajamas will be distributed to children in need, whose circumstances can contribute to shortened and more fragmented sleep. Beginning April 16^th, Westin will give the gift of better sleep beyond the brand’s hotels, in cities around the world: from New York and Toronto, to Mexico City and Cape Town, and will encourage guests to support by purchasing a pair of pajamas on westinstore.com to benefit the program.

“As people integrate wellness into their lifestyle more holistically on the road and at home, giving back has increasingly become important to their overall sense of well-being,” said Brian Povinelli, SVP & Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts.  “Wellness is in the Westin brand’s DNA, and Project Rise: Thread Forward is evidence that we can empower the well-being of our guests and associates as well as make a difference in the communities around us – hopefully inspiring change in the industry as a whole.”

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Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa has announced completion of an extensive property-wide renovation programme, which focused primarily on uplifting and refurbishing the luxurious timeless desert resort.

Al Maha’s senior management worked closely with Emirates Airline’s Facilities Design team to ensure enhancements which reflect their vision, so that guests can continue to experience the resort’s unique Arabian charm.

Within suite interiors, the bathrooms have received new anti-slip floor tiling, sleek fittings and vanity counters, while swimming pools have an all-new wooden pool deck. Exterior setting upgrades focused on the landscape and poolside areas. The new design also includes subtle improvements such as upgrading the air-conditioning units, improved internal and external wall lighting, additional USB ports and power sockets, easier accessibility to master light switches, bedside telephones and bed-side reading lights, along with improved dedicated ladies’ vanity counters.

Apart from Bedouin-inspired architecture, Al Maha’s interiors have been complimented by ancient Arabian designs, featuring distinctive pieces of antique wooden furniture. These have now been delicately restored to its original charm.

“Our brief was simple – there was no major changes required at the resort. The only changes that were needed, involved refreshing and refurbishing, resulting in a fresher look and enhanced guest experience. We made sure to keep the design elements timeless and true to the essence of Al Maha, and we are glad to have achieved this result” – Facilities Design – Emirates Airline.

Being an eco-friendly resort, Al Maha was quick to bring in more sustainable enhancements by opting for LED lighting, installing solar panels and sewage treatment plants, and sustainable management of water.

“Prior to refurbishment, we received unanimous feedback from our guests – to change nothing as Al Maha is truly remarkable and in essence, timeless. That is why this restoration has been designed to retain what is special and unique about the resort, such as the ambiance, the charm and the heritage of an era gone by. Most of the changes have been made meticulously behind the scenes within the resort, resulting in a completely refreshed look and feel,” comments Patrick Antaki, Complex General Manager.

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