Discover how ‘Life is a Journey’ at the Anantara New York Palace Hotel

BBJ: What does “Anantara” stand for? What does the logo represent?

Tamás Fazekas: The Sanskrit word “Anantara” means “without end” and evokes the freedom, movement, and harmony that are the spirit of the Anantara experience. Each Anantara property draws its strength from the rich cultural traditions, historical heritage and natural beauty of its destination. As such, every visit is a unique voyage of discovery and inspiration that is distinctly Anantara.

The brand’s strapline, “Life is a Journey,” reflects Anantara’s philosophy and core values. The logo is a water jar emblem intended to symbolize Thai hospitality and its generous spirit, along with two Thai cushions representing comfort. The logo’s main color scheme is gold to keep in mind the luxury and sophistication of the brand.

Our hotel’s rebranding represents a significant milestone in the group’s ambition to expand the luxury brand of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas in Europe while marking considerable progress in the strategy of creating added value for the customer base via new hotels and destinations. In fact, the Anantara brand is very proud to have this historic property, an esteemed icon in Budapest city, not only for its abundant heritage but also for being a reference in the food and beverage offer with a bustling atmosphere, a landmark for the vibrant events organized, and chiefly for its efficient and kind staff, praised by all clients.

BBJ: Why are some city properties being rebranded as Anantara, which is better known as a resort brand?

TF: Indeed, Anantara has historically been known as a luxury resort brand, but over recent years it has strategically looked to expand its footprint into city locations as well. Currently, Anantara has hotels in the capital cities of Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Bangkok, Dublin, and Rome, and more city hotels will undoubtedly be added in the coming years.

BBJ: What is an “Urban/city Anantara?”

TF: Anantara’s essence of accommodating modern travelers, connecting them to real places, people, and stories through tailored personal experiences, is now applied to the key European cities, continuing to provide heartfelt hospitality. It is your resort in the city.

BBJ: What can Anantara New York Palace Budapest offer to guests that is different from other hospitality brands?

TF: Our collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels provides a new approach to discovering or rediscovering places through curating personal travel experiences. From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travelers to a local authenticity, grounds them in genuine luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. With the “Dining by Design” experience, our guests can choose whether to have a unique dining experience in the hotel or one of Budapest’s most prominent culinary tourist attractions, Gundel Restaurant. For those who seek an outdoor dining adventure, the Anantara picnic basket is part of our “Discovery Experiences,” bringing New York Café flavors into nature, for example, to Margaret Island. Guests should also not miss a boat trip on the Danube!

BBJ: What kind of loyalty program does Anantara have?

TF: As a Discovery member, guests will enjoy global loyalty benefits from their first stay, such as exclusive member rates, room upgrades, late check-out, comfort-enhancing perks, and awards to experience a property that truly reflects the culture and traditions of its location. Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, brings together 35+ brands with more than 570+ hotels spread across 85 countries in its portfolio. That means there is a fit for every travel need, from iconic European palaces, overwater Maldivian villas, safari escapes, or sybaritic spa retreats (all perfect for honeymoons or other trips á deux) to business-friendly hotels ideally situated in the center of global hubs.

BBJ: What Anantara DNA will be perceived by clients?

TF: Anantara amenities, the arrival and departure experience, the introduction of signature concepts such as “Dining by Design” and “Spice Spoons” cooking classes, and exclusive experiences aimed at modern travelers, embracing the charm of the destination for guests to immerse themselves with authentic people and stories. A new Anantara Spa will be introduced later this year, complementing our existing well-equipped gym.

BBJ: What type of spa?

TF: Drawing upon Thailand’s wellness traditions mixed with Hungarian expertise, cultural inspirations, and therapeutic ingredients, the Anantara Spa offers unique signature journeys deeply rooted in authentic luxury, holistic practices, and indigenous experiences. It uses chemical-free products, treatments, and rituals inspired by the Thai origins of Anantara and combines that with innovative modern therapies and natural products, delivering the highest definition of relaxation and pampering.

Highly trained and specialized therapists perform every treatment at the Anantara Spa. These experts tailor perfect experiences from comprehensive menus of massages, body and facial treatments, bringing together exclusive ingredients and aromas and time-honored techniques to promote long-term health and wellbeing.

Anantara Spas are a haven of peace and tranquility, an utterly relaxing and rejuvenating experience in unique settings. Our spa will have many treatment rooms, several saunas and a pool.

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of July 1, 2022.