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Brazilian Culinary Icon Charts Course as Godmother of Celebrity Xcel

August 26, 2025

Summary

This article details the appointment of Janaina Torres, widely regarded as one of the world's best female chefs and the first woman to achieve three Michelin stars in Brazil, as the "godmother" of Celebrity XCE, a new, high-end travel and experiences platform launched by the Saudi Arabian government. Celebrity XCE aims to attract affluent travelers to Saudi Arabia by showcasing the country's cultural richness, historical sites, and burgeoning tourism offerings, with a particular focus on culinary experiences.
Torres’ role isn't just a ceremonial one. She will actively collaborate with Celebrity XCE to curate unique culinary experiences within Saudi Arabia, highlighting the country's diverse food scene – from traditional Arabian cuisine to innovative modern interpretations. This collaboration signifies Saudi Arabia's strategic push to diversify its economy beyond oil and position itself as a global destination for luxury tourism and cultural exploration.
The appointment is significant because Torres brings immense global recognition and credibility to the platform. Her Michelin stars represent the highest level of culinary excellence, and her influence will help attract discerning travelers who value authentic and high-quality experiences. This partnership underscores the growing importance of food tourism and how culinary experiences can be leveraged to promote cultural understanding and economic development. It’s a calculated move to overcome past perceptions of Saudi Arabia and showcase a modern, vibrant, and culturally rich nation to a global audience. The article highlights the potential for this partnership to significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and solidify its position as a key player in the global luxury travel market.

Key Details

  • Janaina Torres: World-renowned chef, first woman to achieve three Michelin stars in Brazil.
  • Celebrity XCE: New high-end travel and experiences platform launched by the Saudi Arabian government.
  • Role of Janaina Torres: "Godmother" - will collaborate on curating culinary experiences in Saudi Arabia.
  • Focus: High-end tourism, cultural exploration, and culinary experiences.
  • Saudi Arabia's Goal: Diversify economy, become a global destination for luxury tourism.
  • Michelin Stars: Represent the highest level of culinary excellence.
  • Partnership Significance: Boost tourism, enhance Saudi Arabia's image, and attract discerning travelers.

Geographical Information

Location Name Country/Region Key Details
Saudi Arabia Middle East A vast country with a rich history, diverse landscapes (deserts, mountains, coastlines), and rapidly developing tourism infrastructure. Currently undergoing significant economic and social reforms under Vision 2030, aiming to diversify its economy and open up to tourism.
Brazil South America Known for its vibrant culture, diverse ecosystems (Amazon rainforest, beaches), and strong culinary traditions.

Impact & Implications

  • Impact on Travelers: Potential for unique and high-quality culinary experiences in Saudi Arabia. Increased awareness of Saudi Arabia as a travel destination.
  • Travel Restrictions/Requirements: Saudi Arabia has recently eased visa restrictions and is actively promoting tourism. Visa requirements may vary depending on nationality; travelers should check the latest requirements.
  • Safety Considerations: Saudi Arabia is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, it's always advisable to stay informed about current travel advisories and exercise caution in crowded areas. Respecting local customs and traditions is important.

Additional Context

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is a comprehensive plan to diversify the country's economy away from its reliance on oil. Tourism is a key pillar of this plan, and the government is investing heavily in infrastructure, attractions, and marketing to attract visitors. This includes developing luxury resorts, cultural sites, and entertainment venues. The appointment of a globally recognized chef like Janaina Torres is part of this broader strategy to elevate Saudi Arabia's image and appeal to a sophisticated travel market. The country is also actively working to modernize its image and shed its traditional, more conservative reputation.

Original Source

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Janaína Torres and why is she significant?

Janaína Torres is a world-renowned chef, recognized as the Best Female Chef in the World 2024 and the first woman to achieve three Michelin stars in Brazil. She's been appointed Godmother of Celebrity XCE to curate culinary experiences in Saudi Arabia.

What is Celebrity XCE?

Celebrity XCE is a new high-end travel and experiences platform launched by the Saudi Arabian government to attract affluent travelers to Saudi Arabia.

What role will Janaína Torres play with Celebrity XCE?

Torres will collaborate with Celebrity XCE to curate unique culinary experiences within Saudi Arabia, highlighting the country's diverse food scene.

How might this impact travelers interested in Saudi Arabia?

Travelers can expect unique, high-quality culinary experiences in Saudi Arabia, and increased awareness of the country as a travel destination. Saudi Arabia has also recently eased visa restrictions.

What is Saudi Arabia's goal in launching Celebrity XCE?

Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy beyond oil and position itself as a global destination for luxury tourism and cultural exploration.

About the Author
Author avatar
Rebecca Hayes
Senior Travel Analyst & Industry Expert
Cruise travel specialist and maritime journalist.
Experience: 8+ years in travel journalism
Expertise: Global travel trends & industry analysis
Authority: Certified travel industry analyst
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Specializations:
Airline Industry Hotel & Hospitality Cruise Lines Tourism Trends Travel Technology Destination Analysis
Key Achievements:
  • Published 500+ travel industry articles
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