Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Mercure Hotels launches '1,000 hours of local flavours'

Commemorating the recent opening of its 1,000th address worldwide, Mercure Hotels marked this milestone at Mercure Dubai Deira, unveiling the brand’s innovative ‘1,000-Hours of Local Flavours’ at select Mercure hotels worldwide.

This unique culinary experience that highlights local food and beverages was launched on October 30, 2024.

This 42-day concept, emphasises Mercure’s dedication to discovering and sharing the authentic tastes of each destination, with unique dishes and beverages available for a limited 1,000-hour period.

Since 1973, Mercure has encouraged travellers to explore the world and feel local everywhere. Now present in 65 countries with 1,000 addresses, Mercure ensures guests are immersed in locally inspired atmospheres with high standards of hospitality.

At the Dubai event, special guests, ALL members, journalists, and influencers gathered to experience this vibrant showcase of local cuisine. Each dish and beverage was thoughtfully curated in collaboration with local producers and suppliers, including Fresh on Table.

As part of the 1,000-Hours of Local Flavours, Mercure Dubai Deira is offering an "Agarwood Fashioned," a fragrant cocktail infused with homemade date syrup, spice bitters, and a garnish of locally sourced dehydrated pomegranate, enhanced by oud wood chips from Coral Perfumes.

Additionally, guests can indulge in Project ChaiWala’s "Masala Carat Tea," made with locally sourced spices and milk, garnished with 24-karat gold leaf.  These exclusive offerings will be available until 11 December.

The day’s highlights included an enchanting Abra ride, a traditional weaving workshop, an in-house cooking class featuring traditional Arabic Luqaimat and a lunch focused on sustainability.

Guests also visited Dubai’s iconic Gold Souk and Spice Souk, exploring hidden gems within Deira while engaging with local artisans and experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye at Accor, said: “Reaching 1,000 addresses is not just a milestone, it’s a testament of Mercure's dedication to delivering authentic, locally inspired hospitality across the globe.

“The 1,000-Hours of Local Flavours embodies a dedication to cultural immersion and community connection, offering guests a unique and memorable culinary journey that celebrates the heart and soul of each destination.”

Mercure Hotels said it is inviting guests to discover and explore the local surroundings, which reflect every detail – from the decorative arts to the curated local food and beverages.

With the largest development pipeline in Accor’s portfolio, Mercure is set to welcome guests to more than 200 new hotels by 2028. – TradeArabia News Service