Avani+ Luang Prabang has created a multi-day Luang Prabang Serene Sojourn package that includes meditation classes with a senior monk, health-conscious meals, alms-giving ceremonies, and other immersive activities that showcase the essence of Laos and its enduring heritage.
The experience is offered ahead of the World Wellness Weekend on September 15-17, 2023.
The programme begins with a Sunrise Cruise by Mekong Kingdoms, a tranquil breakfast served on board a traditional boat.
On weekends, guests can join meditation sessions hosted in a hidden Buddhist temple by Monk O-Bee, a highly respected elder who draws on his profound knowledge of Buddhist philosophy to guide attendees on the path to mindful and fulfilling living. Guests can also join locals for a daily alms-giving ceremony as a way of showing respect to the monks and earn merit. These traditional activities will give guests precious insights into local habits and ways, while their voluntary donations to temples will go towards their development and maintenance.
Between activities, Seychellois chef Marcus Freminot, known for his Creolean cooking techniques, will dish out nutritious meals inspired by Laotian ingredients, while the resort’s spa will conduct wellness therapies to heal the soul, calm the mind and relax the body.
The three-day, two-night Luang Prabang Serene Sojourn package is priced from 11,940 baht (US$338) per night, and includes accommodation for two guests, roundtrip airport/train station transfers, and all the above stated activities.
The former Parkroyal on Kitchener Road will adopt the Novotel brand from November 1, 2023, as Accor and Worldwide Hotels Group sign on a new partnership. This follows Worldwide Hotels Group’s acquisition of the property in July 2023.
The 543-key Novotel Singapore on Kitchener, located in the Little India cultural enclave, will begin its rebranding exercise on October 31, 2023.
Accor has an existing strong partnership with Worldwide Hotels Group, as evidenced by the latter’s successful management of ibis Styles Brisbane in Australia and ibis Budget Osaka Umeda in Japan. Carolyn Choo, CEO of Worldwide Hotels Group, said: “This acquisition aligns with our growth strategy and allows us to expand our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and thoughtful customer service in strategic locations.”
The hotel had previously undergone a full-scale refurbishment in 2020, presenting now updated décor and interior design. It is ideal for both leisure and business travellers, with facilities ranging from all-day dining restaurant, hospitality lounges, and retail shops.
“We are delighted to introduce Novotel Singapore on Kitchener as a milestone achievement in our ongoing partnership with Worldwide Hotels Group, a property that emphasises our shared commitment to exceptional guest experiences,” said Garth Simmons, CEO for Accor’s Premium, Midscale & Economy Division in Asia.
“This signing is a significant step for Accor as we continue to elevate hospitality standards to provide our guests with genuine hospitality and premium comfort.”