ASIA & THE MIDDLE EAST – Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts’s new Local Flair Getaway programme features local culture in ways that are unique to their destination.
Launched late in September across Mövenpick properties in Asia and the Middle East, the programme offers out-of-the-box experiences and activities instead of common tourist attractions.
Mövenpick Hotel Deira offers guided visits to the main souk of the city
At Mövenpick Hotel Saigon, groups discover secret tunnels that have played an important role in the Vietnam War. Those staying in Hanoi, on the other hand, can enjoy an hour-long Ca Trù concert, staged in the old houses at Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Ca Trù is a unique form of chamber music from Northern Vietnam, performed by female vocalists.
Meanwhile, Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba has an expert ornithologist reveal the secrets behind the mass migration of rare birds across the Jordan. In Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut, wine connoisseurs lead groups on trips to Lebanon’s rarest vineyards.
Arabic cooking classes at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach
Mövenpick Hotel Kuwait offers explorations of lost civilisations’ ancient relics on Failaka Island, while Arabic cooking classes are conducted at Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai and Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach.
Though typically part of accommodation packages, the Local Flair Getaway programme can be specially arranged for groups at an additional fee. The number of people accommodated depends on the activity – the Saigon tunnel exploration, for instance, accommodates up to 20 people.
“More and more travellers want to engage with a destination in an authentic meaningful way,” said chief operating officer for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Middle East and Asia, Andreas Mattmüller. “They want to learn about local cultures, talk to local people and enjoy local experiences rather than just visit the sights.”
For more information visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com/localflair
Johna Baylon