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Hospitality

True luxury = comfort + elegance + exceptional service

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Exclusive interview with Pantelis Leptos, Co-President Leptos Group of Companies

How does Leptos Calypso Hotels define luxury in the context of hospitality?

At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we define luxury not merely by the opulence of our surroundings but by the unique experiences we offer. Luxury, in our view, is about providing an environment where every detail has been meticulously curated to exceed guest expectations. It’s about personalizing every aspect of a guest’s stay, from the moment they walk through our doors to the time they leave. We believe true luxury is found in the seamless integration of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service that leaves a lasting impression.

How do you incorporate the essence of Mediterranean luxury into your hospitality offerings, and how might this appeal to discerning travelers from the UAE?

Mediterranean luxury is at the heart of everything we do at Leptos Calypso Hotels. It’s about capturing the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back elegance. Our properties are designed to reflect the Mediterranean’s stunning landscapes, with architecture and interiors that evoke a sense of place. We use local materials, traditional craftsmanship, and regional flavors to create an authentic and immersive experience.

For travelers from the UAE, this approach resonates with their appreciation for both authenticity and refinement. The Mediterranean lifestyle is one of relaxation, indulgence, and understated sophistication, which aligns with the expectations of discerning guests from the UAE who seek not only comfort but a sense of connection to the destination.

Given your extensive experience in the hospitality industry, do you see any potential for Leptos Calypso Hotels to expand into the UAE market?

The UAE is a dynamic and growing market with a deep appreciation for luxury and hospitality. While our focus has traditionally been on the Mediterranean, we are always exploring opportunities to bring our unique approach to new markets. The UAE, with its cosmopolitan population and high standards for luxury, presents a compelling opportunity for us to extend the Leptos Calypso experience. We see potential in creating a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern elements, offering a distinct luxury experience that could appeal to both local and international travelers in the UAE.

Considering your deep appreciation for ancient Greek history and Cyprus’ rich heritage, how do you integrate cultural elements into the luxury experience at your hotels?

Cyprus has a rich cultural tapestry, and we see it as our responsibility to share this heritage with our guests. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we integrate cultural elements into every aspect of the guest experience. This includes architecture inspired by ancient Greek and Cypriot design, art collections featuring local artists, and culinary offerings that celebrate traditional Cypriot and Greek flavors. We also offer curated experiences that allow guests to explore the history and culture of Cyprus, from guided tours of ancient sites to workshops on local crafts. By doing so, we provide our guests with a deeper connection to the destination, enriching their stay with meaningful and memorable experiences.

How do you see your leadership philosophy influencing the growth and success of Leptos Calypso Hotels?

My leadership philosophy is grounded in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and respect for our heritage. I believe in leading by example, inspiring our team to embrace these values in everything they do. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and solutions. This collaborative approach has been key to our growth and success, allowing us to adapt to changing market conditions while staying true to our core principles. By nurturing talent and promoting a shared vision, I believe we can continue to elevate our brand and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.

In an increasingly competitive market, how do you measure and maintain guest satisfaction at Leptos Calypso Hotels?

Guest satisfaction is at the core of our operations, and we take a proactive approach to ensuring it. We measure satisfaction through a combination of direct guest feedback, online reviews, and detailed surveys. This data is analyzed regularly to identify areas for improvement and to recognize what we are doing well. However, maintaining guest satisfaction goes beyond metrics. It’s about creating a culture where every team member is committed to going above and beyond for our guests. We empower our staff to anticipate needs, resolve issues swiftly, and deliver personalized service. In a competitive market, this focus on guest satisfaction is what sets us apart and ensures our guests return year after year.

Is luxury defined by price or by experience?

Luxury is unequivocally defined by experience. While price can be a factor, true luxury is about the value that guests derive from their experience. It’s about creating moments that are priceless—whether it’s a stunning view, a perfect meal, or a gesture of kindness from our staff. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we strive to offer experiences that resonate on a deeper level, leaving our guests with memories that last a lifetime. Luxury is about how our guests feel when they stay with us, and that feeling is something that money alone cannot buy.

We also find that a select few fall in love with life on the beautiful island of Cyprus and desire a more permanent presence, which we are well-equipped to support them with through our residential development arm, Leptos Estates. As the largest and most successful developer in Cyprus we offer a wide range of prime luxury villas, apartments and houses on full-service resorts or developments that offer a wide range of amenities and excellent security in envious locations. We also have an entire team in place to support with and manage residency and visa applications for those looking to spend more time on the island or enjoy wider access across the EU.

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Hospitality

CELEBRATE LOVE UNDER THE STARS WITH VILLAMORÉ’S SEASIDE VALENTINE’S EXPERIENCE

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Romantic seaside dinner setup at Villamoré with two guests toasting glasses of red wine under the night sky, flanked by outdoor heaters, with Dubai city skyline illuminated in the background.

Villamoré Restaurant invites couples to celebrate love in timeless elegance with an exclusive Valentine’s evening on Saturday, 14 February, from 19:00 – 23:00.

Set against the serene backdrop of Dubai’s coastline, the intimate affair begins with a welcome cocktail followed by a meticulously curated five-course dinner, artfully paired with seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired flair. Guests will dine beneath the stars on a private stretch of sand, surrounded by soft candlelight and the gentle rhythm of the sea.

The evening unfolds with live musical performances, adding a layer of sophistication and soulful ambience to the celebration. Upon arrival, each couple will be welcomed with a hand-arranged bouquet of fresh blooms, a poetic prelude to an unforgettable night.

As a final gesture of affection, guests will receive a selection of artisanal chocolates to carry the spirit of the evening beyond sunset.

Priced at AED 999 per couple, the Villamoré Valentine’s Package includes the full dining experience, live entertainment, a floral welcome, and a chocolate as a keepsake. Couples may further elevate their celebration with a special offer of 30% off on select bottles of premium bubbly.

For bookings and inquiries, please contact fbreservation.thepalm@kempinski.com / villamore.reservation@kempinski.com 04 444 2000

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Hospitality

A MEDITERRANEAN MOMENT BEGINS IN DUBAI AT ERGON AGORA

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Outdoor dining area at Ergon Agora Dubai featuring a table set with drinks, cutlery, and menus, surrounded by modern black chairs and greenery, with a staff member standing near the table and other guests seated in the background.

Ergon Agora Dubai hosted an intimate preview evening, following its opening in December, offering guests a first glimpse into its Mediterranean lifestyle destination, where gastronomy, culture, and community come together under one roof.

Set within a warm and vibrant atmosphere, the evening reflected Ergon Agora’s ethos, which is rooted in Greek heritage and expressed through contemporary dining. The event offered guests an opportunity to savour the venue’s unique flavours while enjoying leisurely conversation and meaningful shared moments.

A curated selection of signature dishes showcased Ergon Agora’s culinary philosophy, celebrating authentic Mediterranean flavours crafted with premium ingredients. Adding a personal dimension to the evening, the chef engaged with guests throughout the experience, sharing insights into the inspiration behind each dish and the traditions that shape the Ergon Agora table.

“Ergon Agora is our way of bringing the heart of the Mediterranean to Dubai, where authentic flavours, culture, and shared moments come together,” said Khaled Eldawakhly, Owner of Ergon Agora in Dubai.

All under one roof at Ergon Agora brings together a complete Mediterranean experience in one destination. Guests can savour soulful Mediterranean dishes, featuring an array of selected peinirli, fresh pasta, meat and fish, as well as meze dishes and breakfast delights at the Restaurant, indulge in bold street-food flavours at Balboa, enjoy slow-fermented sourdough breads at 72H Artisanal Bakery, delight in classic and modern Greek desserts at Tzeneral Pastry Shop, and explore premium Greek artisanal products at the Ergon Originals Store.

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Hospitality

A NEW YEAR OF INDULGENCE: ME BY MELIÁ DUBAI INTRODUCES JANUARY’S MUST-EXPERIENCE MOMENTS

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Modern indoor bar at Meliá Dubai featuring a sleek concrete counter, backlit shelving with bottles and plants, warm ambient lighting, and contemporary artwork on the walls

The New Year marks a time to reconnect, explore new experiences, and enjoy the region at its best during the winter season. This year, ME by Meliá Dubai invites guests to ease into the months ahead with a thoughtfully curated collection of seasonal experiences designed to be enjoyed at any pace.

Whether it’s discovering a brand-new daytime brunch, enjoying relaxed dining under the stars, stepping away from the workday for a leisurely business lunch, unwinding with indulgent spa rituals, or beginning to plan Iftar gatherings ahead of the holy month, there is something to suit every mood and moment as the year begins.

BRUNCH:ED

Just launched, BRUNCH:ED is ME by Meliá Dubai’s newest Saturday experience, an elevated daytime brunch set on the hotel’s terrace. Guests are invited to enjoy a carefully curated international buffet featuring hot and cold selections, interactive live cooking stations, and vibrant live entertainment, all set against stunning panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline.

The experience includes a generous spread of freshly prepared dishes, from vibrant seasonal salads and handmade pasta crafted at live stations to perfectly grilled favourites hot off the flame, all finished with an irresistible selection of decadent desserts designed to satisfy every sweet craving.

For those looking to extend the experience, the afternoon continues with an after-party, allowing guests to soak up the atmosphere and keep the energy going well beyond brunch.

After Dusk Ramadan Edition

Experience the spirit of Ramadan at ME by Meliá Dubai’s Level 1 terrace, where guests are invited to gather for a heartwarming Iftar served at sunset. Set within an elegant and refined setting, the experience features a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional and contemporary flavours, creating a calm, reflective atmosphere that makes each evening of the holy month truly special.

Wellness by ME – AWAKEN

After the busy festive period, it’s time to slow down, unwind, and truly rejuvenate. Wellness by ME, the hotel’s spa, invites guests to fully restore with a 60-minute Tailor-Made Royal Massage, a therapeutic treatment combining dry techniques and deep oil stretching to release muscular tension, improve flexibility, and respond to each body’s individual needs.

To elevate the experience further, guests may enjoy a complimentary add-on of either a 30-minute body scrub or an additional 30-minute massage. The wellness journey also includes full access to the pool and sauna, along with a refreshing beverage to complete this moment of relaxation.

Central Restaurant – Business Lunch

This January, Central Restaurant welcomes guests to step away from the hustle and enjoy a well-deserved pause with its Business Lunch, a thoughtfully crafted experience designed to inspire warmth, connection, and culinary delight. Curated by the Executive Chef, the seasonal menu highlights comforting flavours and refined touches, celebrating the very best of the season in every dish.

Guests can savour standout creations such as the Charming Broccoli, featuring smoky charred broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon; the luxuriously smooth Golden Velvet Soup; the refreshing Papaya Mist, with delicate smoked salmon and vibrant edamame; the Coral Catch, a warm, succulent grilled prawn and nutty bulgur salad; the aromatic Sun Souvlaki, with tender chicken, soft pita, and creamy tatziki; and the decadent Ricotta Fold, silky spinach and ricotta ravioli finished with butter and parmesan.

For a comforting finish, an assortment of desserts provides the perfect sweet ending. This midday experience is the ideal retreat from a busy day, offering both flavour and relaxation.

Whether dining solo, taking a well-earned break from the day or gathering colleagues for a networking lunch, this midday experience offers a deliciously memorable way to savour the season.

Grill by ME

January is the perfect season for al-fresco dining! Guests are encouraged to enjoy a relaxed yet elegant evening at ME by Meliá Dubai’s striking Pool Terrace with Grill by ME. Set inside the architectural icon that redefined the city’s skyline, this new open-air dining experience pairs contemporary style with effortless comfort –  the kind of place where chilled beats, live grill stations, and ME Dubai’s signature modern energy come together seamlessly. Guests can explore a thoughtfully curated buffet featuring fresh salads, handmade pasta crafted at interactive stations, sizzling grilled favourites, and decadent desserts, all designed to elevate simple flavours with finesse.

Perfect for intimate evenings or vibrant gatherings with family and friends, Grill by ME offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Dubai after dark.

The Cabana Experience

Soak up the winter sunshine in ultimate style with the Cabana Experience. Perfect for sunbathing, splashing in the pool, or simply lounging in comfort, each cabana is designed to be a private oasis. Standard room guests can enjoy a cabana for AED 250 (for two people), complete with two refreshing beverages of choice, mineral water, cooling towels and a hand fan, plus sun protection by Deeper Beauty to keep everyone perfectly pampered under the sun. Suite guests receive a complimentary cabana with the same indulgent inclusions. Whether it’s sipping a chilled drink poolside, cooling off in the pool, or simply basking in the rays, the Cabana Experience transforms an ordinary day into a sun-soaked escape full of relaxation, fun, and effortless luxury.

Deeper Beauty – Sun Care Elevated

ME by Meliá Dubai proudly continues it’s collaboration with Deeper Beauty, a UAE-born SPF brand that seamlessly blends inclusivity, sustainability, and high-performance skincare. Crafted to protect and celebrate every skin tone, Deeper Beauty’s lightweight, non-white cast formula delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without compromise, making it especially suited for darker complexions. Perfect for sun-soaked days by the pool or outdoor adventures, it ensures skin stays nourished, protected, and radiant.

Whether applied before a relaxing cabana day or on-the-go, Deeper Beauty makes sun protection effortless, effective, and suitable for every skin tone.

Whatever the experience, ME by Meliá Dubai is the perfect place to spend January – a destination to indulge, unwind, relax, and reconnect.

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