STAMFORD, Conn. — Westin Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with AFAR – a celebrated travel brand that inspires and guides travellers to enjoy richer and more meaningful experiences –today announced the launch of WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR, an engaging digital destination guide that steers travellers to local favorites and under-the-radar, must see sights within easy reach of Westin hotels. Developed by AFAR’s community of travel experts, the curated guides launch today for more than 40 top travel destinations around the world including Athens, Boston, Milan, Montreal, New York, Portland, San Francisco, Shanghai and more. WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR will be available for all Westin hotels and resorts by end of year.
“We are delighted to join forces with AFAR, one of the most highly respected travel brands, to help our guests plan one-of-a-kind travel experiences that go off the beaten path and beyond the typical tourist experience,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts and Le Meridien. “Everything we do at Westin, from our innovative programming and signature suite of Heavenly amenities, is designed with our guest’s well-being in mind. Our goal is to provide a truly unique and instinctive travel experience at our hotels and resorts around the world that brings our brand promise to life no matter where your travels take you.”
Before you Check-In, Check-Out Westinfinds.com
With content curated by AFAR exclusively for Westin, the digital platform, which includes a website and mobile component, provides a source of recommendations sure to make any vacation truly memorable. From authentic restaurants, to enchanting shops and memorable sights, the itineraries range from simple: a peaceful kayak ride down the Mercer Slough in Washington, to extravagant: a private bike tour of the Balinese countryside punctuated by ancient temples and colorful Patchouli fields. Shunning the one-size-fits-all formula, WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR lets travellers personalize their itinerary based on whether they are traveling as singles, couples, families or groups of friends. Looking for an authentic culinary find for the entire family in Mexico City? Treat everyone to a fun afternoon exploring empanada stands in Distrito Federal. Need to plan a romantic evening in Shanghai? Arrange for a private chauffeur to whisk you away to a secret location for a 20-course meal prepared by a celebrated chef. In true AFAR-style, the online destination guide boasts exquisite photography and beautifully written travel descriptions that help transport the reader to a pub in Boston or a farm to table restaurant in Milan.
“AFAR is proud to partner with Westin on an initiative that aligns so closely with our core values,” said Joe Diaz, Co-founder of AFAR. “Our mission has always been to empower travellers to experience a destination like a local – and with WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR, we have a new platform with which to reach even more travellers.”
WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR is the latest addition to the brand’s dedicated weekend program, Westin Weekends, that gives guests more flexibility and time to make the most out of their weekend getaway and features 3pm Sunday check-out, extended breakfast and more. To discover WESTIN FINDS FROM AFAR please visit www.westinfinds.com.
Launched in 2009, AFAR is the leader in experiential travel, inspiring and encouraging travellers to go beyond the typical tourist experience and celebrate global diversity by connecting with different people and cultures. The brand encompasses the award-winning AFAR magazine, recipient of multiple Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Awards, including the 2010 and 2012 Gold Award for “Best Travel Magazine;” AFAR.com, nominated for a prestigious ASME award; a mobile app; and the nonprofit AFAR Foundation, which grants travel scholarships to high achieving students who would not otherwise be able to explore our world.
For more information on Westin Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.westin.com, Facebook or follow Westin on Twitter.
The above report is a press release that has been reprinted in its entirety and does not necessarily represent the views and/or editorial style of hoteliermagazine.com.
