Miscellaneous

✈️ On March 5, 55% of flights from Dubai and 82.8% from Abu Dhabi were canceled due to Middle East conflict. Travelers turn to private jets, charter flights, and road trips to exit the UAE. Private jet demand has surged by 200% to 300%, according to Mayfair Jets, as wealthy travelers, corporate executives, and diplomats seek swift departures. The restrictions in Gulf airspace are prompting alternative travel solutions.

🏨 Yosie Crespo shares insights from her hospitality career, emphasizing empathy and commercial sharpness, inspired by mentors like Barbara Raza (Hilton) and Anne Marie Donoghue (Trump Hotels). Career highlights include her role as Director of Sales & Marketing at The Perry Hotel Naples. In 2025, the lodging industry advanced women's leadership yet requires further progress. Looking forward, Crespo foresees enhanced diversity and inclusive leadership in 2026, vital for innovation and resilience in the hospitality sector.

🍕 Sebastian Frank, acclaimed chef from Berlin, will be the guest chef at Nova Maldives from 10 to 15 May 2026. He will present his "Roots & Waves" menu, focusing on emancipated vegetable cuisine. Chef Sebastian will host two exclusive gourmet dinners and a cooking class on 12 May 2026 at Soul Kitchen. Non-alcoholic beverage pairings will be offered. The menus will showcase locally sourced ingredients, aligning with Nova's sustainable approach.

🍳 At 28, Tom Earnshaw, now Head Chef at Bohemia since 2025, was named Michelin Guide Young Chef of the Year. Bohemia, Jersey's only Michelin-starred restaurant, retained its star for the 22nd consecutive year. Earnshaw's leadership blends discipline and creativity, championing local produce, sustainability, and team culture. His culinary journey began at 15, shaped by experiences at The Samling, Moor Hall, and Northcote. Earnshaw aims for two Michelin stars, emphasizing mentoring and culinary excellence.

📍 Hong Kong International Airport's Alchemist Café, by Minus Workshop, spans 3,358 sq ft, using HK Tram Green (Pantone 3415 C). Inspired by 1940s tram paint, it embraces local culture with bamboo pavilion micro-zones and a blend of traditional and modern design. Collaborative efforts with Hop Keung and artist Eunis Cheong highlight the decor. Lighting draws from wet markets and vintage items, while flooring showcases "money flower" and tiger tattoo motifs, enhancing the café's local storytelling.

🏨 Helene Okabe's 18-year career at Concord includes leadership in Concord’s Emerging Leaders Mentor Program and cofounding CWomen, an affinity group for women. In 2025, she was promoted to senior vice president. Concord introduced its first NYC properties and launched the first U.S. Canopy by Hilton in D.C. Mentors like Will Loughran and Debra Punke taught her creativity and intentional leadership. Okabe sees progress in female leadership and anticipates diversity growth in 2026 and beyond.