Forget diamonds – gold is a girl’s new best friend! Spectacular Swiss health retreat Grand Resort Bad Ragaz has launched the new “Gold Temptation” massage an extravagant new spa experience that allows guests to indulge in the glamour and opulent health benefits of 24-carat gold! 

Throughout history, gold has been recognised for its rich beautifying properties. It is believed that the classical beauty Cleopatra used pure gold to maintain a radiant complexion and in ancient Chinese medicine, gold was the key to youthful skin. A soft metal, gold extract can hydrate, firm and moisturise the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and leaving skin feeling and looking smooth and radiant. 

The Gold Temptation massage starts with a carefully drawn lavish bath that has been enriched with oils and 23-carat gold leaf that soothes and relaxes tired skin.  Before your therapist then leaves you to bubble away, a glass of chilled Champagne infused with 23-carat edible gold flakes will be poured for you to enjoy. After bathing for a tranquil 20 minutes, the body is treated to a luxurious gold full-body massage. First, 24-carat gold leaf is placed on the back and legs. A skilled Bad Ragaz therapist then gently massages the gold along with a mixture of carefully chosen oils until it is completely absorbed into the skin. The process is then repeated on the stomach, legs and arms. This super-hydrating treatment not only stimulates the mind and spirit but will lift and firm the skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth with a healthy, golden glow. The Gold Temptation massage (100mins) starts from €311 (£280).

Nightly B&B rates at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz start from €587 (£495) staying in a Spa Suite. Rates include complimentary internet access, non alcoholic drinks from the mini bar, use of the To B. Wellbeing & Spa area and Tamina Therme as well as VAT.

www.resortragaz.com

Getting There: Swiss International Airlines offers up to 20 daily flights a day to Zurich from London Heathrow, London City, Birmingham and Manchester. Return fares, including all taxes and charges, start from £107 in economy class and £376 in business class.

www.swiss.com/uk;

4/7/2010 2:53:17 PM UTC    Comments 

ABode, the four star boutique hotel group will open its doors in Chester this Spring. The 85 room hotel, conveniently situated adjacent to Chester’s racecourse offers a stylish and contemporary base to explore the city’s unique mix of Roman ruins, gothic grandeur of Chester Cathedral and boutiques.

This is the sixth property from the ABode stable which provides a choice of accommodation suites and dining options ranging from Tavern to Restaurant, with price points to suit every budget.  Featuring bespoke art collections created by photographer, Brian Aris, the venue captures modern style with an eclectic mixture of art pieces to make each room unique.

The hotel is ABode’s first new build yet fuses the unique heritage of the Chester site within a modern setting, with original Roman remains dating back to 79AD and discovered on site, being showcased at the entrance to HQ.  Three sixth floor suites are spaciously fitted to offer exceptional comfort with state of the art hand-built beds and oversized baths along with private balconies to give views of the racecourse, piazza and Chester city.

www.ABodehotels.co.uk/chester

3/17/2010 12:28:08 PM UTC    Comments 

Stelios Haji-Ioannou continues to expand his super budget brand easyHotel into Berlin, Germany as the new Hotel opens. Situated in Hackescher Markt in the centre of Berlin, the hotel will open its doors with an opening offer starting from just €10 (euros) per night for a double room.

This latest addition to the easyHotel portfolio is a new build budget hotel and the 12th property to be opened by the brand. Located on Rosenthaler Strasse it offers 125 air conditioned bedrooms which are priced on the basis of the earlier you book, the less you pay and periods of high demand cost more than less popular periods.

Within walking distance of all the tourist attractions including: Hackescher Markt, Alexanderplatz and the Museums Island, with a tram stop and the Rosenthaler Platz subway station located right in front of the hotel allowing easy access to attractions around the city.

easyhotel.com

3/9/2010 10:21:39 PM UTC    Comments 

Andaz San Diego has officially opened at the property formerly known as Ivy Hotel. Following the successful debuts of three other Andaz locations in London, West Hollywood and New York City, the Andaz San Diego is the second on the West Coast and fourth for the global brand.

“The concept behind Andaz was born out of the belief that today’s travellers are in search of hotels that offer warm and friendly service and have a unique design aesthetic,” said Rusty Middleton, general manager of Andaz San Diego. “We are excited to offer them that experience here in San Diego, one of the most appealing destinations in Southern California.” 

Located at 600 F Street in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, Andaz San Diego embodies the brand’s hallmark, “personal style,” with a new, simplified check-in process. An Andaz “host” combines the roles of front office, concierge and bell attendant, and uses handheld technology to check guests into the hotel. 

The 159-room property featuring 13 deluxe suites and four specialty suites now offers “intuitive and fun” treats for guests. New complimentary amenities include a shot of espresso or glass of wine upon check-in, a mini-bar stocked with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, wireless internet, unlimited local phone calls and home-away-from-home comforts to help guests enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Andaz San Diego will be a part of the Hyatt Gold Passport program, which recognizes Hyatt’s loyal guests with exclusive benefits. Guests of Andaz San Diego may register for the program in the hotel or online and all Hyatt Gold Passport members will earn points for stays at this new Hyatt property.

www.sandiego.andaz.hyatt.com

2/18/2010 9:45:48 AM UTC    Comments 

Holiday Inn has taken the unprecedented step of introducing human bed warmers into its hotels, helping guests get a great night’s sleep and keep the cold at bay.

Holiday Inn has teamed up with sleep psychologist Dr Chris Idzikowski and a dedicated team of bed warmers to heat up guests’ beds. Dressed in all in one sleeper suits, the bed warmers will work as human electric blankets, bringing the bed temperature up before guests climb in so guests can be toasty warm from the moment their heads hit the pillow.

As Dr Chris Idzikowski, director of the Edinburgh Sleep Centre explains: “There's plenty of scientific evidence to show that sleep starts at the beginning of the night when body temperature starts to drop. The decline occurs partly because the blood vessels of the hands, face and feet open up and release heat.

“A warm bed – approximately 20 to 24 degrees Celsius – is a good way to start this process whereas a cold bed would inhibit sleep.  Holiday Inn’s new bed warmers service should help people achieve a good night’s sleep especially as it’s taking much longer for them to warm up when they come in from the snow.

Jane Bednall, spokesperson for Holiday Inn said: “People want to leave the cold outside and climb into a warm bed.  The new Holiday Inn bed warmers service is a bit like having a giant hot water bottle in your bed, warming it up before guests climb in to give them a great night’s sleep away from the cold.  And of course they jump out before you jump in!”

The bed warmers toasting suits (pictured) were specially designed to maximise sheet heating efficiency.  The complimentary five minute bed warming service will trial at Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum, Holiday Inn Kingston South and Holiday Inn Manchester Central Park.
Sessions should be booked to take place between 21.00 and 23.00, from 18 to 25 January 2010.

1/18/2010 12:08:17 PM UTC    Comments 

Marriott International rings in the New Year and the new decade by offering leisure travelers a Global Rate Break, 20 percent savings on weekend room rates at participating hotels around the world.  Select resorts in the Caribbean, Latin America and Hawaii are offering up to 40 percent off room rates.

Time to book is limited. The Global Rate Break is available for booking up to January 22, 2010 for relaxing weekend stays (Thursday – Sunday) with family, friends and loved ones that occur between January 22 and March 21, 2010.*  Visit www.marriott.com/globalratebreak1 and insert promotional code F5X to check availability and book your stay

Some resorts and hotels are going a step further, offering the 20 percent off their room rates seven days a week.  In total, guests will have the flexibility of choosing from more than 2,500 participating Marriott hotels around the world among the company’s portfolio of brands:

Marriott Hotels & Resorts.     
JW Marriott
Renaissance Hotels
Courtyard by Marriott
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Residence Inn by Marriott
TownePlace Inn by Marriott
Marriott Vacation Club

1/15/2010 5:13:50 PM UTC    Comments 

Stelios Haji-Ioannou is expanding his super budget brand easyHotel into Berlin, Germany as he announced today that the hotel is taking reservations from the 11th January through their website www.easyhotel.com . Located in Hackescher Markt in the centre of Berlin, the value for money hotel will open its doors on 8th March 2010 with an opening offer starting from just €10 (euros) per night for a double room. 

This latest addition to the easyHotel portfolio is a new build budget hotel and the 12th property to be opened by the brand. Located on Rosenthaler Strasse it offers 125 air conditioned bedrooms which are priced on the basis of the earlier you book, the less you pay and periods of high demand cost more than less popular periods.

Renowned for its ‘no frills’ approach easyHotel Berlin Hackescher Markt is completely transparent on its services and pricing structure and in keeping with the easyHotel concept of value for money, services such as Television, internet access, luggage storage and extra towels are available for a small extra charge to guests who require them.
 
www.easyhotel.com

1/12/2010 3:12:51 PM UTC    Comments 

Ideally located on Passeig de Gràcia, at the very centre of the city’s commercial and entertainment district, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona opened its doors on 26 November. The opening was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony and celebratory gala event, attended by Barcelona’s society elite.

“We are delighted to be bringing Mandarin Oriental’s renowned hospitality into Spain for the first time, and are excited about opening such a luxurious hotel in Barcelona’s lively and sophisticated centre,” said Luis Marco, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona’s General Manager

To celebrate the opening of the Group’s first hotel in Southern Europe, guests booking a two night stay at Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona can enjoy the opening package providing a third night´s complimentary accommodation in any category of guestroom or suite. This offer is available for bookings up to 31 March 2010 and is subject to availability.

www.mandarinoriental.com

About Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

Housed in the re-development of an elegant mid-20th Century building, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is within easy access to the city’s finest shopping, dining and cultural venues. The 98 rooms and suites hotel offers highly stylized and spectacularly creative interiors by internationally renowned Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola. Each of its stylish guest rooms and exquisitely designed suites showcase enduring contemporary design which incorporate subtle reflections of the Group’s oriental heritage. Views are either over Barcelona’s most stylish boulevard, Passeig de Gràcia or the hotel’s landscaped interior garden. A number of guestrooms have a balcony or terrace, from which to admire the surrounding modernist façades.

12/4/2009 3:17:06 PM UTC    Comments 

The start of a 21 day sale offering rooms at easyHotel Larnaka from as little as €5 per room per night. The sale prices are available until 24th December for stays between 1st January and 28th February 2010.

Located just a 5 minute walk from the Phoinikoudes beach front, the 56 bedroom hotel is in prime position for travellers wanting to make the most of the winter sunshine – without breaking the bank. easyHotel Larnaka. All rooms are air-conditioned with en-suite shower rooms. In keeping with the easyHotel concept of value for money, services such as TV, internet access and extra towels are available for a small extra charge to guests who require them.

Says Calum Russell, easyHotel.com Commercial Director: “For people wanting a burst of sunshine to get through the winter blues the €5 per room per night is too good to miss!”

www.easyHotel.com

12/4/2009 3:14:47 PM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Grand Hyatt Shenzhen, the newest addition to its world class Grand Hyatt portfolio. A part of the prestigious City Crossing complex, Grand Hyatt Shenzhen is the only luxury hotel in Shenzhen in a mixed-used commercial development. It is located alongside MixC, the city’s largest shopping mall, which houses the greatest number of international luxury brand retailers in China, an Olympic-sized skating rink, and Park Lane Manor, the most exclusive residential property in Shenzhen.

Located in Luohu District – Shenzhen’s financial and trading centre – Grand Hyatt Shenzhen is only a five-minute drive from the Hong Kong border and Luohu Station, 10 minutes from the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Centre, 20 minutes from Huanggang Port, and approximately 40 minutes from Shenzhen International Airport. 

The hotel is housed in a distinctive 38-storey crested building, where the top seven glass-encased floors create an illuminated ‘lantern’ at nightfall, offering magnificent, panoramic views of Shenzhen, the CRC Building, the iconic 384-metre-high Diwang Building, one of the tallest buildings in China, and the green mountains of northern Hong Kong. With mezzanine floors creating multi-storey open shafts, the lantern is a dynamic entertainment hub at the building’s summit, housing the contemporary art-filled Sky Lobby, the only sky lobby in Shenzhen, as well as many of the hotel’s innovative dining destinations.

“We are very pleased to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to this vibrant city,” says general manager Peter Chau. “With our advantageous location and eight innovative and exciting restaurants and bars, we hope to redefine the art of dining and entertainment in Shenzhen, while establishing our hotel as the favoured gathering point for local residents and international guests alike.” We hope to attract discerning guests who have an appreciation for authentic cuisine offered in a dramatic, but comfortable, setting, and Grand Hyatt’s level of sincere and friendly service, provided by a team of passionate employees.”

www.hyatt.com

11/27/2009 5:22:32 PM UTC    Comments 

Premier Inn, the UK’s biggest hotel chain, has launched its first hotel in India and announces plans to open nine further hotels in India in the next five years.

Premier Inn is expanding in India to capitalise on the country's developing business traveller market. Currently there are a limited number of budget hotel brands in India – and this represents an excellent opportunity for Premier Inn, with its strong budget hotel model. 

Premier Inn India Managing Director, Aly Shariff, said: "Large Indian corporates, multi-national companies, SME’s and small privately owned firms are the kinds of customers we are targeting - there is a huge and rapidly growing junior and middle management population that represents an excellent opportunity for us. We have planned 10 hotels in five years, with Bangalore now open, following this will be properties in Delhi (2010) and Pune (2011), as well as looking at other potential sites.”

Patrick Dempsey, Managing Director of Premier Inn UK, said: “India represents one of the fastest growing economies in the world today, and we are confident that Premier Inn will be successful in India. Our strong budget hotel model of great quality combined with excellent value will no doubt be an attractive proposition for business and leisure travellers alike.”

Premier Inn Bengaluru will cater for its guests with 105 rooms, a multi cuisine restaurant, bar, gymnasium and a conference room. 

Premier Inn’s development in India comes just 18 months after Premier Inn launched its first international hotel in Dubai. Premier Inn Dubai now has 2 hotels, with the third site opening in December 2009.

11/25/2009 10:43:43 AM UTC    Comments 

Budget brand easyHotel is further expanding its hotel offering as it announces its taking reservations from the 15th October for its newest property, in Sofia, Bulgaria. Located in the bustling heart of the capital, the hotel will open its doors in January 2010 with an opening offer on prices starting from just €10 (euros) per room per night.

The latest addition to the easyHotel portfolio is the 11th property to be opened by the brand and their first new build hotel. Offering 57 air conditioned rooms easyHotels Sofia is bookable on their website at  www.easyhotel.com where rooms are priced on the basis of the earlier you book, the less you pay and periods of high demand cost more than less popular periods.

Renowned for its simple ‘no frills’ approach easyHotel is completely transparent on its services and pricing structure and in keeping with the easyHotel concept of value for money, services such as TV, internet access and extra towels will be available for a small extra charge to guests who require them.

Calum Russell, easyHotel.com Commercial Director: “We are very excited by the continued growth of the easyHotel brand and our expansion into the capital of Bulgaria.  Sofia is a stunning city, where old and new merge seamlessly and is well served from across Europe by a number of low cost airlines.  Our affordable, value for money rooms will allow us to leverage value from the growing number of visitors to this developing city.“

11/20/2009 4:50:01 PM UTC    Comments 

The Queens, has announced plans to develop the City’s first ever dedicated executive floor.  With work beginning in January 2010, the 4 star QHotels property plans to unveil the new executive floor, entitled QClub, in March of the New Year.

Investing over a quarter of a million pounds into the redevelopment, QClub will incorporate eighteen executive guest rooms and suites (two of which boast individual terraces), a complimentary bar, an executive lounge serving breakfast, first class meeting and office space and a dedicated concierge service. With a private terrace, the new premium facilities will be located on the hotel’s 8th floor, providing unrivalled views of Leeds’ skyline.

“The Queens has long been recognised for its impressive business offering. As an iconic landmark in Leeds the development of the new executive floor not only establishes The Queens as a market leader, but strengthens Leeds’ offering as a business destination” commented David Kanarens, General Manager of The Queens.

The city centre hotel currently boasts 217 decadent guest rooms and suites and 16 iconic Art Deco meeting and event rooms which can accommodate up to 600 guests. 

11/20/2009 1:54:37 PM UTC    Comments 

For the 16th year in a row, Sandals Resorts was named the Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand at this years World Travel Awards.  In addition to this distinguished honour, Sandals Resorts and sister-brand, Beaches Resorts, took the most awards of any resort company honoured during the ceremony.  Sandals Resorts Founder and Chairman, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, along with son Adam Stewart, CEO of Sandals Resorts International, were on hand  with several of the company’s top executives to accept the awards.

“Throughout our 28 years of operation, our number one priority has always been – and will continue to be – offering travellers a top luxury product and an unforgettable experience,” Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, said. “With a recent $125 million expansion in Turks & Caicos, a resort set to debut in Great Exuma, Bahamas in January 2010 and a new partnership with Martha Stewart Weddings, we are humbled and flattered that our ongoing efforts to modernise and improve our resorts have been recognised today.”

11/11/2009 12:03:50 PM UTC    Comments 

“Keep the traditional Scottish feel while introducing an urban appeal” was part of the brief from the owners of the new Blythswood Square hotel in Glasgow when they commissioned Harris Tweed which is to be a main feature of the hotel.

The fabric, specially commissioned from Harris Tweed Hebrides of Shawbost in the Isle of Lewis, will appear in every area of the luxury 5* hotel from check-in to the bars, bedrooms and penthouse including the private Screening Room where each seat is upholstered in a different colour and pattern of tweed.

This is the first time that Harris Tweed has been used for a prestigious interior since the QE2 was commissioned in the early 1960s. Peter Taylor OBE, Chairman of the Townhouse Collection which owns the property, said: ‘Blythswood Square is such an iconic building in Glasgow that it was important we acknowledged its history while moving gently into the 21st century.

“The range of Harris Tweed which we have selected is very subtle and sophisticated and we’re delighted with the look which has been achieved”.

One hundred home weavers were involved in producing the Harris Tweed commission for Blythswood Square which took six months to complete. 

www.blythswoodsquare.com.

10/29/2009 4:37:49 PM UTC    Comments 

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed a 20 year management contract with Splendid Hotel Group for a new 254-room six storey InterContinental property in the centre of London.  The InterContinental London Westminster is set to open in late 2011.

InterContinental London Westminster will occupy the former Queen Anne’s Chambers, originally built in the nineteenth century.  The 120,000 square foot freehold site close to New Scotland Yard is currently office and retail space.

The hotel will be the second InterContinental hotel in the capital.  InterContinental London Park Lane was first opened in 1975, and reopened following extensive renovations in 2006 in celebration of the brand’s sixtieth anniversary.

Kirk Kinsell, IHG’s president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “Despite the tough economic times the fact that we continue to sign major deals is testament to the strength of our brands.  We’re adding 5,000 rooms in the UK in the next two to three years.  The InterContinental London Westminster will open in time for the Olympic Games in London in 2012.”

10/26/2009 2:46:39 PM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Grand Hyatt Macau located on the Cotai Strip in the new City of Dreams development. A sophisticated and serene oasis amid the excitement of Macau, the 791-guestroom hotel houses one of the largest event spaces in Macau. With 15 individual function areas spanning more than 90,000 square meters, Grand Hyatt Macau is set to become the leading meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions venue in the region.
 
Grand Hyatt Macau, a non-gaming hotel, is a five-minute drive from Macau International Airport and an eight-minute drive from Macau Ferry Terminal. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to all of the territory’s major transport terminals and to the city center, where guests can explore the colonial Portuguese architecture and other historic elements of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site.

The 424 rooms and suites in the Grand Tower or 367 rooms and suites in the premium Grand Club Tower, each with dedicated check-in areas, are spacious and provide uninterrupted views of the Pearl River or the Cotai. Photographic art of Macau is featured prominently in Grand Tower rooms, while original artwork inspired by nature and created by an Australian artist is a distinctive characteristic of the Grand Club Tower rooms. Guestrooms at Grand Hyatt Macau are equipped with the latest technology for guests’ needs, including bedside lighting and curtain controls, and an AV control panel transmitting iPod, camera and laptop data through two 40-inch LCD TVs.

On Level 35 of the Grand Club Tower is the Chairman’s Suite - a 275-square-meter private two bedroom, two bathroom residential-style guestroom with panoramic city views, offering a security-monitored entrance, a kitchen with seating, a dining area, a work space, and a home theatre sound system. Ideal for private entertaining, the suite also features a separate entertainment quarter.

“We feel Grand Hyatt Macau reflects the energy and exciting cultural fusion that makes this former Portuguese colony unique, and a dynamic destination for both individual leisure travellers and MICE groups,” says Paul Kwok, general manager of Grand Hyatt Macau. “Given the sheer scale, variety and unique nature of its event venues, alongside the world-class entertainment available at the City of Dreams - all of which can be handled through one billing account - Grand Hyatt Macau is a truly integrated destination, and we feel confident that it will be a huge attraction to MICE organizers.”

www.hyatt.com

10/15/2009 9:55:02 PM UTC    Comments 

A hotel which promises to “reinvent hotel service and value” has opened in London. This ambitious undertaking comes from all seasons – the new international budget hotel brand being pioneered by hospitality leader Accor.

There are already 73 all seasons hotels around the world in six countries: France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Indonesia.  They are medium sized properties in central urban locations, each offering a very different style and guest experience, but with a consistent approach to service and value. all seasons hotels always include breakfast within quoted room rates. The company also pledges that “screens are flat, beds are big and WIFI access is free and unlimited in all public areas”.

The all seasons London Southwark Rose hotel near London Bridge will be the first all seasons branded hotel in the UK, following the acquisition by Accor of the operating company of the Southwark Rose. The hotel originally opened in 2003 as an independent property and is currently trading with 84 bedrooms. An additional 21-bedroom extension is planned as part of the all seasons rebrand.

With room rates starting at £95 per night, including continental buffet breakfast and WIFI in public areas, the hotel is ideally suited to both business and leisure travellers to London – just opposite the city on the south of the river and also within easy striking distance of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern and Tower Bridge.

Christian Rousseau, managing director, economy hotels at Accor said: “The launch of an all seasons property in London is part of our ongoing expansion and investment in the UK to provide varying hotel sizes and styles to suit every guest.

www.all-seasons-hotels.com

10/12/2009 2:29:35 PM UTC    Comments 

One of Glasgow’s most famous and historical buildings is being transformed into the breathtakingly luxurious five star hotel, Blythswood Square.  Formerly headquarters to the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, this landmark property has been redeveloped by Scotland’s stylish luxury boutique hotel group, The Town House Collection, to capture the glamour of a bygone era whilst showcasing the latest in designer styling as befits this vibrant and sociable city.

Blythswood Square which is located in the City centre on one of Glasgow’s only remaining green spaces will have 100 bedrooms including four spacious suites and an enticing top floor penthouse complete with rooftop hot tub. It will also house Glasgow’s first luxury spa offering indigenous Scottish treatments, a restaurant, bars, a private screening room and event facilities.
 
The hotel interior retains its fine architectural features whilst sporting contemporary bespoke furniture by modus, flooring and textiles. This includes the use of Scotland’s famous Harris Tweed which will be used across chairs, curtains and even restaurant menus.  This is the first time this textile has been used for interiors since the 1970s.

Formerly the Royal Scottish Automobile Club’s ballroom, the hotel’s main 150-cover restaurant and cocktail bar will be impressive with its high ceilings and grand dimensions.  However, the atmosphere will be fun and relaxed, a place to enjoy delicious seasonally chosen and locally sourced food and inventive cocktails with friends under the attention of award winning Executive Head Chef, Daniel Hall. 

The Spa at Blythswood Square champions the latest in cutting edge design offering a number of unique facilities and treatments specially created for the spa. Guests can indulge in bespoke natural treatments using Scotch Thistle extract, Scottish seaweed and a selection of treatments from the luxurious Anne Semonin and ila. The spa is home to Glasgow’s only Seaweed Bath chamber filled with healing organic seaweed sourced from the Hebrides. The marble Heat Suite offers a range of hot and cold experiences including a large hydrotherapy pool. The 11m relaxation pool leads to the decadent Dark Pool where guests can float under a crystal chandelier. This outstanding spa also houses a Rasul, relaxation rooms, 9 spacious treatment rooms including a double suite, all offering the highest level of comfort and warmth.

Blythswood Square is owned by The Town House Collection, owner of four of the finest boutique hotels in Edinburgh – The Bonham, Channings, The Howard and The Edinburgh Residence.  Peter Taylor OBE, Chairman of The Town House Collection, commented: “The chance to restore this landmark Glasgow property tastefully into a contemporary hotel, retaining its unique features and personality has been a wonderful opportunity.  It’s a magnificent building and we look forward to welcoming our first guests.”

Room rates at Blythswood Square start from £180 including full Scottish breakfast for a classic room based on two people sharing.

www.blythswoodsquare.com

10/8/2009 9:50:34 AM UTC    Comments 

Sandals have just announced an extension on the outstanding deals that they are offering on travel dates up until June 2010, along with the great value flight upgrades and free regional departures. These offers will be available for Antigua, Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Bahamas and Turks & Caicos for a booking window of now until 21st October 2009.

Some of the great offers available include:

Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Golf Resort: Seven nights staying in a Great House Deluxe Room at Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Golf Resort costs from just £1,024 per person. Price includes ‘Luxury Included®’ accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers, for travel dates 29th October – 16th December 2009.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa: Seven nights staying in a Deluxe Seaside Room at Beaches Negril Resort & Spa costs from £1,178 per adult. Price includes ‘Luxury Included®’ accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers, for travel dates 29th October – 16th December 2009.

Sandals Halcyon Beach: Seven nights staying in a Paradise Pool Deluxe Room at Sandals Halcyon Beach costs from £1,320 per person. Price includes ‘Luxury Included®’ accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers, for travel dates 1st November – 8th December 2009.

Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa: Seven nights staying in a Turquoise Deluxe Room at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa costs from £1,563 per adult. Price includes ‘Luxury Included®’ accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers, for travel dates 1st September – 11th December

Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua: Seven nights staying in a Gardenview Room at Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua costs from £795 per adult. Price includes ‘Luxury Included®’ accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers, for travel dates 1st November – 8th December 2009

www.sellingsandals.co.uk

10/8/2009 9:10:47 AM UTC    Comments 

A new, luxurious spa experience has opened this week at the 5* InterContinental La Torre Hotel in south-east Spain featuring therapists trained by the Temple of Po in Bangkok.

The newly created Eastern space has six treatment rooms which have been individually designed and styled with silks from China, antiques and lacquered furniture from across Asia, lanterns and carpets from India to create the setting for some of the most exclusive treatments in Europe.

Visitors are wrapped in the subtle aromas of the orient and lulled to the sound of the Tibetan flute.  Senses are awakened by the teas and fruits offered on arrival and the intricate rituals that make up the Thai Room Spa experience.

The treatments have their roots in Asia inspired by Thai tradition, the Indonesian Jamu, Ayurveda and Indian Yoga and offer and impressive range of massage, body scrubs, wraps and facials.

Clients can put together their own experience by mixing, matching or just working with a therapist to create something unique for them. 

The signature treatment at Thai Room Spa is Princess Andaman which includes an Almond Scrub, Facial and ancient massage ritual where the asana movements of yoga are passively reproduced.  This last originating in pre-Hindu Temples and brought to Southeast Asia by one of Buddha’s physicians.

Prices start from just £60 for a Thai Cocoon Facial which includes a 30 minute de-stress session and purifying ritual.

Special offers of weekend pamper packages are available from the hotel at €99 per person per night with low season flights from most UK airports to Alicante or Murcia starting at £29.99

10/7/2009 3:51:32 PM UTC    Comments 

The Forbury Hotel is a luxury five star hotel in the heart of Reading, located within the peaceful setting of the Forbury Gardens. The hotel will be the first hotel in the Metropolitan set of von Essen hotels, to be followed early next year with the launch of Hotel Verta in London.

The building, built in 1911, is the former Berkshire Shire Hall and is a grand and imposing listed building that effortlessly lends itself to its current status as a luxury hotel, which has 23 rooms and suites arranged over 4 floors. 

In addition von Essen has also purchased the 16 self contained apartments and penthouse adjacent to the hotel.

From the bold and lavishly appointed interiors to the vast and eclectic private art collection, the hotel has an overall feel of opulence, style and comfort. Every detail sets the standard of the highest quality at every level in the hotel. 

Designed for both business and pleasure, The Forbury boasts the latest technology and stylish yet functional surroundings in dedicated rooms provide the ideal location for meetings and events.  There is even a 30 seat private cinema - ideal for both private and corporate use.

von Essen hotels' expansion across the UK continues with the addition of The Forbury Hotel in Reading. The von Essen hotels private collection now numbers 29 hotels and at the beginning of 2010, will see the opening of the second hotel in the Metropolitan set, Hotel Verta in London, bringing the total hotel count to 30. Hotel Verta will be the group's first new build property and is the first integrated hotel heliport solution in the world.  The growth of the Metropolitan set - inner city hotels with a predominantly business travel related customer base fulfils a strategic objective to diversify and strengthen the von Essen hotel portfolio.

Andrew Davis, Chairman of von Essen says, 'We are delighted to have acquired The Forbury Hotel, the inaugural member of our Metropolitan set. A key strategic objective for the collection is to acquire properties in the UK's principal cities - The Forbury is a fitting first hotel in this set and a valuable addition to the von Essen portfolio.'

www.vonessenhotels.com

10/2/2009 10:59:47 AM UTC    Comments 

In anticipation of its opening in April 2010, Dolce Munich Unterschleissheim is now available for group bookings.

Dolce Hotels & Resorts sixth property in Europe, and one of only three four-star hotels to open in the Munich market in the next two years, will complement the existing Dolce BallhausForum conference centre.

Dolce Munich Unterschleissheim will offer 1,655 square metres of function space certified by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC). Group facilities will include a 327 square metre divisible conference room, 230 square metre ballroom on the ground level, a further four conference rooms and eight breakout rooms on the first floor, as well as an Executive Sky Lounge on the seventh floor. 

The hotel will also offer 255 guest bedrooms and suites with complimentary wireless Internet access, two fine dining restaurants one of which is a fine dining bar and “Biergarten”, and a Dolce Vital Spa, wellness centre and swimming pool.

Steven A. Rudnitsky, Dolce Hotels & Resorts President and Chief Executive commented: “Dolce Munich Unterschleissheim will be the first Dolce-operated hotel designed and built from the ground up to our high conference and resort specifications. It fulfills our vision for a world-class conference complex with state of the art technology and unrivaled service”.

www.dolcemunich.com.

9/28/2009 8:04:42 AM UTC    Comments 

Hilton Worldwide (formerly Hilton Hotels Corporation), the global hospitality company, announced the launch of its new corporate name and logo.  Hilton’s new name, Hilton Worldwide, signifies the company’s global breadth and reach, and the logo incorporates key design elements that reflect Hilton’s rich heritage, vision for the future and commitment to excellence in service.

“This is an incredibly dynamic time in our company’s history.  On the heels of a successful move into our new global headquarters, we’re excited to launch our corporate identity that better represents who we are today and our aspirations for the company going forward,” said Christopher J. Nassetta, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hilton Worldwide.  “While our corporate name and logo have changed, the best of our company – the passion, commitment and high standards of our team members that translate into exceptional experiences for our guests – remains the same.”

9/24/2009 9:56:49 AM UTC    Comments 

To celebrate the hotel’s fabulous new look after a £1 million refurbishment, The Greenway is delighted to announce the launch of some very special personal shopper packages following the appointment of its very own in house stylist-to-the-stars Stuart Weir. 

Stuart is The Greenway’s very own “Fairy Godfather” and knows exactly how to make women look and feel fabulous, whatever the age or budget. With a history of styling celebrities including Kylie, Mariah Carey & Robbie Williams, Stuart has now returned to Cheltenham and he really is this season’s ‘must have’.

The Greenway Hotel is the destination of Gloucestershire for food, interiors and now, fashion! Ideally located for “cool hunting”, The Greenway is set in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside yet just minutes from the cosmopolitan Cheltenham Regency Spa town with its glamorous boutiques and designer shopping.

Stuart will accompany guests on shopping trips into Cheltenham Spa following personalised consultation sessions, mixing designer and high street labels depending on the particular requirements and budget of the individual.

So, for a weekend break with a difference, whether you’re looking for a complete makeover, wardrobe refresh, that perfect dress, a capsule collection or something for a special occasion, Stuart at The Greenway can give you star-style. He has long standing connections to local boutiques as well as salons and make-up brands to give you an entire look or just a bit of a taster…

A Stylish Weekend Break rates from £930, for two nights, based on two people sharing a Manor House deluxe room. Includes Friday & Saturday night stays. 

www.thegreenway.co.uk

9/24/2009 9:51:14 AM UTC    Comments 

Set within magnificent gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona is an exclusive venue for meetings, incentives and banquets. A relaxing atmosphere together with the flawless service of a five star deluxe hotel gives a special touch to all events and celebrations. To further entice clients arranging business meetings and conferences in the coming months Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona is offering a special meetings and incentives package giving exceptional value until March 2010.

The hotel features seven stylish, well-designed meeting and conference spaces, ranging from the impressive ‘Poniente’ with a capacity of 240 persons in theatre style, to the more intimate ‘Siroco’ with a capacity of 15 persons in boardroom style. Each room is fully equipped with state of the art technology including WiFi, screen, projector and AV equipment and enjoys plentiful daylight and outside access.

The generous new conference package includes accommodation; a refreshing welcome drink during group check-in; rental of the main conference room including mineral water; the use of standard technical equipment such as screens and flipcharts; free use of wireless internet in guest rooms, as well as public and meeting areas; two coffee breaks; a business lunch by Executive Chef Jordi Bataller; and free use of the hotels’ Spa & Health Club.

Room & Package Rates:

Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona offers nightly rates from €170 for single occupancy and from €190 for double occupancy until 31st October 2009. From 1st November 2009 – 26th March 2010 rates are from €110 for single occupancy and from €130 for double occupancy.

The conference package costs €65 per person per day plus 7% VAT.

Rates are per room and night, including buffet breakfast. 7% VAT excluded. Offer valid for a minimum of 10 rooms per night, subject to availability and valid only for new requests and reservations.

www.kempinski-spain.com

9/22/2009 10:21:11 AM UTC    Comments 

Danish accommodation only provider ‘Yourholidayaccommodation.com’ has launched a new bookable website for the UK market. Jakob Lund Nielsen, Managing Director said “After 6 successful years of trading we now have expanded to the UK, Swedish and, Finnish markets alongside of course our Danish Market.

Although most of are guests travel to southern Europe, our program covers the world including hotels, apartments and villas in both Asia, USA and the most popular cities around the globe – all of which are offered at very competitive prices - 800 hotels in over 300 destinations says it all!”

We have unique relationships and agreements with major hotel players such as Riu Hotels & Resorts, Iberostar Hotes & Resort and Citadines, which allows us to offer the best deals available in the UK market”.

Current deals include:

October deals Special Offers!
Mallorca - £11.75 per pers. per night
Crete - £5,50 per pers. pr. night
Christmas shopping deals:
New York - £90 per pers. per night
Barcelona - £29,50 per pers. pr. night
Copenhagen - £41,00 per pers. per night

Website: www.yourholidayaccommodation.com

9/17/2009 11:28:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Showcasing cutting-edge contemporary design styled for “today’s fast-living urban travellers,” chic new lifestyle is hte new hotel The Mira Hong Kong. The new 492-room address on Nathan Road is heralded as one of Hong Kong’s most upscale and technologically advanced hotels.

The Mira Hong Kong promises to become a new venue for the hottest global live acts – underlined by a Grand Opening performance from award-winning American pop icon Katy Perry. General Manager Dirk Dalichau said: "The Mira Hong Kong will become a hot new venue in Tsim Sha Tsui for big-name performers."

The hotel is also set to establish itself as a fashionable new dining destination in the heart of the city. Finest European gastronomy is on the menu at signature restaurant WHISK, masterminded by award-winning Chef Justin Quek.  The world-renowned Singaporean chef has trained under some of Europe's most legendary chefs, including Roland Mazere, Jean Bardet and Michael Roux Junior at Le Gavroche and Waterside Inn in England. He was voted “Best Chef of the Year” at the World Gourmet Summit Awards of Excellence.

Uniquely themed guestrooms will appeal to travellers seeking customised, bespoke accommodation with a personalised service touch. They offer a choice of red, green or silver colour schemes – all with stylish, handpicked designer fabrics including an “Egg Chair” by Arne Jacobsen to match each colour scheme, and rain showers. 

Latest in–room technology incorporates 40-inch LCD TVs, 500GB Sony PC/Entertainment Centres, Bose in-room soundscapes, complimentary high-speed WiFi and wired internet, and a unique “My Mobile” Nokia phone service, which allows guests to be contacted and stay in touch anywhere in Hong Kong. The “My Mira” service provides personalised concierge assistance at the touch of a button.

In line with its positioning as an upscale business-cum-lifestyle hotel, The Mira Hong Kong also boasts 14,000 sq ft of conference and meeting facilities, including a spectacular ballroom featuring a 25,000 lighting combination of LED lighting, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and unique table settings.

General Manager, Dirk Dalichau, added: “We are excited about introducing a fresh, upscale hospitality concept designed for those who appreciate tasteful and stylish interiors, personalised intuitive service and who are design-driven and technology savvy.”

www.themirahotel.com

9/17/2009 10:41:42 AM UTC    Comments 

This winter, Baros Maldives is delighted to announce the opening of five new Baros Pool Villas.  Maldivian in design and subtly sheltered by tropical island vegetation, the 134sqm beachfront villas are the ultimate romantic hideaways.

The Villas offer generous living space with a wooden deck for sun lounging, a shaded veranda with day bed  and a cooling private pool.  The elegant interiors include a king size four poster bed, large windows to allow natural light, state of the art entertainment and a contemporary bathroom. 

Complete with a dedicated resort host, the Baros Pool Villas are the the perfect setting for intimate alfresco dining, an ensuite spa treatment or simply a place to relax in utmost privacy.

Baros Maldives is a lush, tropical island set in the shimmering waters of a shallow lagoon and surrounded by a reef vibrant with marine life. This romantic private island has 75 thatched villas, numerous dining locations, a dive centre, gym and Aquum Spa to name a few of its extensive facilities.

From £2,712 per person Kuoni (01306 747008 or www.kuoni.co.uk) offers 7 nights at Baros on bed and breakfast basis in a Baros Pool Villa.  Including flights with Sri Lankan Airlines from Heathrow and transfers in resort. Price based on two sharing.

9/15/2009 2:59:18 PM UTC    Comments 

Premier Inn, has announced plans for four new hotels at London’s leading airports, creating a total of 1,570 rooms. The hotels will open on a phased basis from the Autumn of 2011 onwards.

Heathrow, Terminal 5, 400 bedrooms
Heathrow, Terminal 4, 240 bedrooms
Stansted, 300 bedrooms
Gatwick, North Terminal, 630 bedrooms

The new Gatwick hotel will be the first airport terminal-based budget hotel in the UK.  It will provide customers with convenient access directly into the North Terminal itself.  The move will reinforce Premier Inn as the largest UK airport hotel operator and shows confidence of a return to growth in air travel once the recession ends.

Mark Anderson, Commercial & Property Director, Whitbread, said: “As air travel returns to long-term growth, we see opportunities to build our presence at airports.  The success of the budget airlines has shown that there is an increasing demand for low-cost travel and that includes accommodation.

9/14/2009 9:21:53 AM UTC    Comments 

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, the world’s first truly global hotel brand, unveils its latest hotel, with the opening of InterContinental Kiev. Situated in the heart of Ukraine’s historic capital city, InterContinental Kiev has been designed to offer a sense of place that is authentic to the charm and character of its location. Occupying a city centre address between three of the most famous churches of ancient Eastern Christendom – St. Michael’s Cathedral, St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the Cathedral of St. Sophia – the hotel is surrounded by golden cupolas and is the perfect base from which to explore the cradle of the ‘Kievan Rus’. The city’s corporate offices, embassies and government agencies are also within easy reach.

InterContinental Kiev’s General Manager Leon Larkin said: “Like many of our sister InterContinental hotels around the world, in world capitals such as London, Paris, Hong Kong and Sydney, the location of InterContinental Kiev could not have been more strategic. Our doors open directly to some of the best-known landmarks in this city and our contemporary-classical façade blends perfectly into the heritage and culture of the immediate area.”

Offering 272 deluxe rooms, including five Ambassador Suites and two signature suites – a 212-square-metre Royal Suite and larger 314-square-metre Presidential Suite, both overlooking St Michael’s Square. The Presidential Suite has enhanced security features with exclusive private lift access, and has been specifically designed to host visiting heads of state and high-level dignitaries. All guest rooms and suites are classical in style, with furniture by distinguished British designer David Salmon, silk drapes and upholstery in light blue, gold and burgundy accents and traditional wood detailing. Rooms and suites are equipped with the latest business and entertainment technology including high speed wireless Internet access, Philips plasma televisions and iPod docking stations, and Cisco IP telephones.

www.intercontinental.com 

9/2/2009 6:21:05 AM UTC    Comments 

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of its second Holiday Inn property in Jordan and its first on the world famous Dead Sea.

The Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea offers visitors to what is widely described as a natural wonder of the world the reliability, friendly service and modern facilities for which the Holiday Inn brand is known globally, not to mention its commitment to excellent value.

John Bamsey, chief operating officer, IHG Middle East and Africa, said: “We already have a strong presence in Jordan, so it was a natural decision to extend our portfolio to one of the Kingdom’s most popular tourist sites.” He said: “Holiday Inn is one of the world’s most recognised hotel brands and it is an ideal fit for Jordan’s evolving tourism market. It helps to broaden the appeal of the Dead Sea as a destination by offering both the value of a mid-scale hotel and the reliability that goes with an internationally respected name.”

Just two minutes walk from the water’s edge, the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea has 78 well-appointed rooms and 128 chalets, a choice of restaurants and comfortable lounges, sports facilities, and the longest swimming pool on the Dead Sea coast. In all, the property covers an impressive 41,000 square metres.
There are extensive meeting facilities with a ballroom that accommodates 200 guests, three meeting rooms and a boardroom.

One of the world’s oldest health resorts, the Dead Sea has attracted visitors for thousands of years.  Ongoing investment in the area’s infrastructure has served to increase its popularity with local, Middle Eastern and international tourists.

9/2/2009 6:09:24 AM UTC    Comments 

For those seeking the ultimate in quality and private times whilst still benefiting from luxury service and attention then von Essen hotels' eight hideaways are the answer. A dedicated website has been launched allowing quick online bookings and the opportunity to tailor make your stay with some fantastic 'add ons'. 

Set within unique grounds are a selection of very different cottages and apartments all surrounded by history and forming part of impressively maintained grounds. These hideaways benefit from as much or as little hotel attention as guests require. The hideaways allow guests to savour the best of both worlds. 

Cliveden which is one of the UK's finest hotels is home to the famous Spring Cottage which sleeps up to six people. Set in woods right on the edge of the Thames, the cottage comes complete with private butler and all the luxuries of a private escape. A private boat and private car are also available to add to the uniqueness of this destination. The cottage is priced from £616 per night and allows access to the restaurants and Spa at Cliveden.             
 
If a castle draws you, then both Dalhousie Castle in Edinburgh and Thornbury Castle near Bristol offer secluded hideaways with unique views onto some of the UK's most historic castles. Thornbury Castle was once home to Henry VIII and is the only Tudor Castle in England open as a hotel. The Gatehouse at Thornbury Castle is a Victorian hideaway that sleeps four in two bedrooms. Prices start from £190 per night. Further north in Edinburgh, The Lodge at Dalhousie Castle sleeps 14 people in seven bedrooms and overlooks the stunning castle and the River Esk. Prices here start from £630 per night. 

In the heart of Bath, one of the UK's most sought after destinations, The Garden Villa at the Royal Crescent Hotel is an 18th century coach house hideaway. The villa is reached via a private walled garden and sleeps up to eight adults. Prices start from £575 per night. 

If you wish to invite the whole extended family then The Dower House Apartments in Suffolk at the Ickworth Hotel are ideal for larger gatherings. With 11 apartments and room for 26 adults and 14 children one really can have the ultimate get together. The four acres of private gardens are a great way to enjoy nature before heading back to your very own private apartments.

Elsewhere, The Gardener's Cottage at Ston Easton Park near Bath offers 3 bedrooms, Bank House at Sharrow Bay in the Lake District offers 6 bedrooms with magnificent views over Lake Ullswater and the Butlers Lodge also at The Ickworth offers 3 bedrooms.

Guests at all the hideaways have full access to all the facilities in the main hotels along with all the attention to details they would expect of a luxury hotel. Equally if guests do not wish to be disturbed then these hideaways remain just that- hideaways.

All hideaways are available either Monday - Thursday (4 nights) or Friday - Sunday (3 nights) inclusive.

www.luxuryhideaways.co.uk

8/14/2009 2:38:03 PM UTC    Comments 

Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts are excited to offer a huge up to 40% discount when staying in a Gardenview Room or higher at Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua. This fantastic offer is for bookings made until 31st October 2009 and is valid for travel up until 26th December 2010.

Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua is a tropical hideaway where the beach curves in a perfect 1,600 foot arc of white sand. Here quaint Caribbean-style accommodations sit tucked in amidst 25 acres of luxuriant foliage and vivid aromatic blooms and the four restaurants serve everything from Mexican food to rich Italian pastas and from savoury Caribbean barbecue to overflowing buffet spreads.

What’s more, guests of Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua are now also entitled to one complimentary day pass at Sandals Grande Antigua during their stay. The pass is valid for lunch and any snacks and beverages at any of the 9 world-class restaurants, plus use of all the other amazing facilities including 5 pools, 5 whirlpools and the indulgent Red Lane® Spa (treatments at additional cost)

Prices start from just £821 per person, staying 7 nights in a Gardenview Room in September, October and November 2009. Price includes all-inclusive accommodation, return flights and hotel transfers.

www.sellingsandals.co.uk

8/7/2009 10:33:34 PM UTC    Comments 

The Royal Plantation Collection is delighted to announce a fantastic new offer available at Royal Plantation Island at Fowl Cay, Exumas, Bahamas. For bookings made until 30th September 2009, guests can save up to 25%* for travel in both 2009 and 2010.

With these amazing savings, staying on an amazing private island no longer has to be something that only dreams are made of. Royal Plantation Island is tucked away in the quiet centre of the Exuma chain of islands in the Bahamas. The elite resort features six freestanding one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. The island can also be rented in its entirety, sleeping up to 30 people in total. In 2007, the property was given a modern-design facelift and features a fine-dining restaurant, bar, clay tennis courts and walking track. Plans are also in place to add a beachfront bar & grill, four new villas, and a Red Lane Spa to the resort.

Each of the island’s villas have central air conditioning, a full kitchen (generously stocked with breakfast and snack provisions; lunch, dinner, and house beverages are included in room rate), satellite TV, VCR, CD, and DVD players, and Molton Brown amenities. Each villa also has its own dedicated golf cart for exploring the island, beach-cruiser bicycles, and a motorboat to take excursions to uninhabited islands, diving reefs, and fishing spots.

Prices start from just £3,611 per person, was £4,609 per person based on 2 people staying 7 nights in Lindon Villa. Price includes flights and accommodation for travel dates September – October 2009.

*Valid for travel between 1st September – 31st October 2009 & 2010, 1st November – 18th December 2009& 2010 and 8th – 31st January 2010. Minimum stay 7 nights. Offer is non-combinable with any other promotional offers. Only valid on selected months.

www.sellingsandals.co.uk

8/7/2009 10:31:34 PM UTC    Comments 

Pullman hotels designed for the modern business and leisure traveler, announced the addition of 5 hotels to its ever growing network in Asia.  The new hotel developments are located in China, Thailand and Vietnam adding to the current operating network of 10 Pullman hotels and resorts in Asia and extending the development commitments to 17 hotels.

Gaurav Bhushan – Senior Vice President Development, Accor Asia Pacific says “The Pullman brand is being very well received by owners looking for a new style of 5 star hotel, one that dispenses with need to over invest in construction and hardware.  The extraordinary rate of expansion of the Pullman network throughout Asia, is testimony to the formidable combination of Accor and Pullman - an international hotel management company with significant infrastructure and platforms in the region, and a hotel brand with characteristics that appeal to modern travelers. The tightening of credit markets has challenged the expansion for traditional 5 star hotel brands and created a niche for the Pullman Brand to expand.”

Network growth

Pullman Pattaya Aisawan (currently Aisawan Resort & Spa) will be re branded at the end of 2009 following the completion of extensive renovations that have already commenced.  Renovations will see the addition of Pullman identifying elements such as innovative food and beverage concepts, Co-Meetings and signature services such as Pullman Welcomer’s and dedicated Event Managers. 

Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach will be a newly built, beach front hotel situated on the white sandy and quiet Naithon Beach, one of Phuket’s newest and most promising bays, and is only 15 minutes by car from the Phuket International Airport.  With 260 guest rooms and 20 villas, the hotel has comprehensive facilities including three restaurants, a lobby bar, two pools with pool bars, a fitness centre, day spa, as well as meeting facilities.  The hotel will open in late 2011.

Pullman Shanghai Pudong Zhangjiang will be a new 300 guest room hotel located in the high tech development and trade zone in Pudong Shanghai.  With three restaurants and a bar, the hotel will also feature a swimming pool, health centre, business centre and extensive conference facilities including a 650 sqm pillar less ballroom and six additional venues.  The hotel is scheduled to open in 2010.

Pullman Shanghai South will open in June 2013 with 305 rooms.  This new construction will form a part of the Shanghai Zhongxing City project, comprising of the hotel, office building and shopping mall.  The hotel is located opposite the Shanghai South Train Station with facilities to include three restaurants, two bars, indoor swimming pool, health centre and spa, business centre and 1000 sqm ballroom and six meeting rooms.

Pullman Hanoi Horison after extensive renovations which are due for completion in mid 2011, the Horison Hotel Hanoi will join the Pullman network.  The hotel with 250 rooms is located in the prime city location on Cat Linh Street with close proximity to the Gian Vo Exhibition Centre.  The hotel has event facilities to cater to 1000 delegates.

These new developments are in addition to the previously announced commitments for 12 Pullman hotels to open in China, Indonesia, India and Vietnam.

www.pullmanhotels.com

8/4/2009 9:05:43 AM UTC    Comments 

The Table Bay hotel, part of the Sun International collection of hotels is offering a ‘Girlfriends Getaway’ package this autumn for discerning guests seeking an indulgent escape with added sparkle.  

A truly luxurious experience, the trip begins with Graham Beck sparkling wine and canapés and a short film produced by De Beers, purveyors of fine gems which showcases the various methods of diamond mining in southern Africa.  Next is a visit to a goldsmith’s workshop in Cape Town for a ‘behind the scenes’ tour to watch a demonstration of gold smelting, the shaping of raw gems into beautiful jewellery and the chance to learn about diamonds and precious stones.  The day is polished off with the chance to have your precious gems cleaned, followed by a high tea at the Table Bay Hotel in the lounge and a thirty minute neck, back and shoulder massage at the Camelot Spa at Table Bay. 

Boasting the best address in Cape Town, adjacent to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Table Bay Hotel offers exceptional accommodation, outstanding service, fine wine and cuisine and a truly unique African experience for discerning guests.  With fine dining on offer at The Atlantic Restaurant, one of the most celebrated establishments in Cape Town as well as a luxury spa, The Table Bay Hotel is a cosmopolitan and elegant base for exploring Cape Town and the surrounds.

All rooms and suites have panoramic views that either look across the Atlantic Ocean to historic Robben Island, or across the bay to the soaring Table Mountain. The Table Bay Hotel has attracted stars of the silver screen including Charlize Theron and Nicholas Cage, as well as supermodel Kate Moss. The Camelot Spa is a top urban spa located next to the Table Bay's spectacular rooftop swimming pool and boasts a boutique gym, specialised suites for Vichy showers, plus several treatments rooms for holistic treatments.

The Girlfriend’s Package includes:

• Graham Beck wine with canapés upon arrival

• High-tea in the lounge

• Diamond Tour

• 30 Minute Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage at the Camelot Spa

• Airport Transfers to/from the hotel

Based upon two people sharing, the Girlfriend’s Package is valid until 30 November 2009.

With overnight, direct flights with South African Airways and no jetlag, The Table Bay Hotel is a  an ideal destination for pleasure seekers. The Table Bay Hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World’ – the internationally recognised definitive mark of excellence.

Kuoni offers seven nights at The Table Bay Cape Town in a luxury room with breakfast, including flights with South African Airways from Heathrow and transfers. Priced from £1735 per person based on two sharing, based on travel in September 2009.

www.kuoni.co.uk

8/3/2009 12:57:46 PM UTC    Comments 

Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme has unveiled its 2,100 square foot Duplex Presidential Suite, following an extensive refurbishment made by Ed Tuttle, the award-winning architect of the hotel. This luxurious suite has played host to guests such as Tony Parker and Eva Longoria, singers Ayo and Yara Lapidus, and celebrity hair stylist John Nollet.

Located on the sixth and seventh floors of the hotel, the Haussmanien contemporary-style suite features two terraces, which boast stunning views of the Vendôme Column, Tour D’Eiffel and Notre-Dame de Paris.  Creating a sophisticated atmosphere and ambience, a grand piano anchors the living room, which is trimmed with mahogany and oak walls, Parisian limestone, and the artwork of Sideo Fromboluti.

A unique concept in the City of Light, the highlight of the new Duplex Presidential Suite is the master bathroom, which showcases a veritable atrium spa. Offering views of the Parisian skyline, the suite’s master bathroom incorporates spa elements, including: a whirlpool bath for balneotherapy, a gold mosaic steam room/shower, a massage area with a treatment bed, a hairdresser’s chair, and dedicated area for additional pampering. 

8/3/2009 7:31:49 AM UTC    Comments 

Whether it’s a Ferrari, a Lamborghini, or a Maserati, Italy is synonymous with super-fast, super-luxe cars. Can’t afford your own? The glamorous Rome Cavalieri is offering guests the chance to drive the Italian car of  their dreams with a specially crafted Italian Super Car “experience day”  and luxury car rental. So get behind the wheel for the drive of a lifetime   in the home of the Italian sports car!

In collaboration with Red Travel, the Rome Cavalieri is now offering guests the chance to experience a 4 hour driving tour on the iconic Mille Miglia route. Guests can drive through hilltop villages along the winding roads     of the route that made the “Gran Turismo” sports car famous, at the wheel of a Ferrari F430 Spider, a Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 E-Gear   and a Maserati Granturismo in one high-octane afternoon.

After meeting in Civitavecchia, guests will be introduced to each car and briefed on how to drive the different models. Your tour director will explain the difference between the 8- and 10- cylinder engines and give guidance on how to handle the F1 paddle-gear shifting behind the steering wheel before you get into the driving seat to take on the most exciting curving roads in the area. Priced from 850 Euros per person including VAT

The Cavalieri also offers full day private car rental for drivers to explore the region and appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views and picturesque villas in style. Tour the roads of the Castelli Romani wine country in Frascati, passing through vineyards and wooded hills; journey into Bracciano and visit the imposing Castello Odescalchi; and whizz over to Ostia Antica to marvel at wonderfully preserved ancient buildings and magnificent frescoes within this town.

A Double Room at the Rome Cavalieri starts from 270 Euros per room per night based on double occupancy with buffet breakfast and VAT included. An Imperial Room with Rome View starts from 465 Euros per room per night based on double occupancy with buffet breakfast and VAT included.

www.romecavalieri.com 

7/31/2009 8:33:05 AM UTC    Comments 

The Maldives will see the opening of the first international-class hotel for its capital city, Malé.  The 117-room Holiday Inn Malé will open on 1 September 2009.  At 15 storeys, Holiday Inn Malé is the city’s newest and tallest hotel in the Maldives and in a 750-kilometre radius, commanding an unrivalled view of the harbour and beyond.

Just a short, five-minute speedboat ride from the international airport, the hotel will offer world-class meetings and conference facilities, food and beverage outlets, extensive recreation and leading-edge communication facilities.  Located on the corner of Ameer Ahmed Magu, Holiday Inn Malé lies near the harbourfront, shops and markets and within a short walking distance to the various historical places of interest like the Old Friday Mosque, Sultan Park and The Presidential Palace.  The hotel provides the perfect gateway to holidaymakers heading out to outlying resort islands.

Sporting the new livery, quality facilities and service of the global Holiday Inn brand family, Holiday Inn Malé boasts of 117 stylish rooms which include 17 Superior Rooms, 77 Deluxe Rooms, 13 Deluxe Ocean view Rooms, 9 Premiere Rooms and a Presidential Suite. All rooms feature either a king bed or two twin beds and offer amenities such as broadband Internet, LCD TVs, minibar, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities and in-room safes.  As for dining and entertainment, there is a Lobby Café, an all day dining restaurant, a rooftop restaurant offering European/Japanese fusion cuisine and a 24 hour in-room dining.

The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool, a well equipped fitness centre and the first branded Spa in Malé, Coconut Spa.  Other full range of activities include scuba diving and snorkeling, big game fishing, island excursions and picnics, Malé city tour, photo flights, resort day visits, submarine trips and others. 

“Holiday Inn Malé will offer leisure and corporate guests alike a perfect place to relax in comfort or conduct business with ease,” said Jolyon Bulley, vice president operations, South East and South West Asia, IHG Asia Australasia. “As the first IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) hotel in the Maldives, this represents an important milestone for IHG.  It presents not only a strategic opportunity for the group to contribute to the thriving tourism industry in Maldives, but also play a significant role within the Malé community.”

7/30/2009 8:53:03 AM UTC    Comments 

Opening next month, Alila Villas Hadahaa, the second ultra-luxury property under the new Alila Villas brand has released its latest collection of images that showcase the stunning architecture and design of the property and the supreme beauty of its location. 

Alila Villas Hadahaa will be the first to open in the Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) Atoll in the previously untouched southern Maldives, heralding an unparalleled experience in island living and destination discovery in the Maldives. It is also the first resort in the Maldives to have achieved the prestigious Green Globe certification for ‘Building, Planning and Design Standard’, which recognizes that the resort is sustainably planned, designed and constructed from the ground up to the world’s highest environmental standard. While environmental considerations took precedence, sophisticated travelers can expect an entirely new style of Maldivian resort fashioned by the appointed architect, the much-celebrated Yale-trained and Singapore-based Chan Soo Khian of SCDA Architects.
 
Alila Villas Hadahaa is exclusively accessible via a 55 min domestic flight from Male to Kaadedhdhoo Domestic Airport, where guests can commence their Alila Villas experience as they board a 55 foot Luxury Azimut Power yacht for a 1 hour 15 min cruise to the resort.

www.alilahotels.com

7/29/2009 10:14:10 PM UTC    Comments 

Mayor Boris Johnson bolted the final beam of the largest ever purpose-built hotel in London, as the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London marked its “Topping Out.” 

When it opens early next year on the South Bank, the £350 million hotel will feature more than 1,000 guest rooms and 2,700 square metres of meeting space.

With Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament as his backdrop, the Mayor secured the final bolt in the final beam high on the penthouse floor as part of a traditional “Topping Out,” a ceremony that marks the completion of the external structure of a building. 

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said:  "This impressive development has removed an awful eyesore that has blighted this corner of the capital for too long. A sparkling new hotel is just what the South Bank needs. I am sure it will act as a major springboard for the regeneration plans for Waterloo Station and the surrounding area, on top of creating hundreds of jobs and boosting the local economy.

"What's more, the huge investment being made today demonstrates great confidence in the future prosperity of our great city."

Park Plaza Hotels President & CEO Boris Ivesha cited the construction of the hotel as an example of the company’s commitment to London.

“We are passionate about London and are on track to deliver 5,000 beds across the capital, establishing Park Plaza Hotels as one of the city’s most important hotel operators,” he said.

In addition to its 1,021 guest rooms and extensive meeting and event facilities, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge will offer South Bank visitors a choice of stylish new restaurants, a chic bar and lounge, and a luxury spa.

7/21/2009 10:29:21 PM UTC    Comments 

St James’s Hotel and Club are making it easy this summer for guests to make the most of the Capital with a special Theatre package including two top seats to the West End show of choice.

For only £375 per room per night, guests can enjoy a sumptuous overnight stay in the luxury 5* central London townhouse hotel, including two top theatre tickets, gourmet 2 course pre-theatre dinner for two and full breakfast the following morning. 

For those looking to extend their city break beyond one night, St James’s Hotel and Club is offering a special rate of only £215 per room, per night.

This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the capital at its best. As well as enjoying London’s entertainment, guests can explore iconic landmarks such as Buckingham or St James’s Palace, soak up the London summer with a stroll through the historic St James’s Park or perhaps savour a picnic, go rowing on the Serpentine and relax in nearby Hyde Park. For those seeking a spot of retail therapy, how about indulging in a spot of shopping in the exclusive shops of Jermyn Street, the Burlington Arcade and Bond Street?

* Rate does not include VAT and package is subject to availability of room and tickets. Valid for August 2009 stays only.

www.Stjameshotelandclub.com

7/21/2009 10:09:42 PM UTC    Comments 

Accor has added two outstanding boutique hotels to its MGallery collection—the Grand Hôtel de Cabourg and the Grand Hôtel Roi René in Aix-en-Provence—both with fascinating histories.

Grand Hôtel de Cabourg: Built in 1907, the Grand Hôtel de Cabourg is set directly on the Normandy beach, just two and a half hours from Paris.

One of the few hotels in Normandy built directly on the beach, the Grand Hôtel offers a splendid, never-ending sea vista. Its majestic neo-Italian architecture, high ceilings, wide corridors, vast rooms and bathrooms imbue the hotel with a calm, eminently romantic atmosphere. This grandeur is accentuated by the materials used—wood, glass, stainless steel, velvet and taffeta—and which are enhanced by contemporary colours. Beginning in the lobby, the mirrors and large bay windows allow natural light to permeate the hotel end to end. Combining traditional and contemporary charm, the spacious, comfortable rooms facing the sea open onto terraces.

Refurbished by Studio Marc Hertrich/Nicolas Adnet, the hotel has renovated two floors of rooms, as well as its suites, restaurant and Marcel Proust reception hall.

“The goal was to bring this hundred-year-old building into the modern era, while respecting its history,” according to Marc Hertrich and Nicolas Adnet. “This required a blend of contemporary and traditional stylistic features to create a new vision of the charm, lyricism and elegance that characterize this holiday resort.”

 
Grand Hôtel Roi René: Located in the historic heart of Aix-en-Provence, the Grand Hôtel Roi René has been part of the city’s cultural heritage since 1929. The hotel, which resembles a typical Provençal bastide, was named for King René, under whose reign in the 15th century Provence prospered as a center of trade, culture and university life. Over the years, the hotel’s charms have attracted a number of celebrities, including Winston Churchill, who wrote his memoirs there.

The hotel features a subtle combination of classical and contemporary styling. The beige and gray color scheme, highlighted with touches of dark purple, and the materials—wood, stone and linen—add to the hotel’s sober elegance and authentic charm. Mirrors and large bay windows further accentuate its already well-lit interior. Subdued lighting and simple, graceful furnishings, combining wicker, cotton, wood and wrought iron, add to the visitor’s impression of calm.

www.accorhotels.com

7/16/2009 8:11:09 AM UTC    Comments 

Accor has added two outstanding boutique hotels to its MGallery collection—the Grand Hôtel de Cabourg and the Grand Hôtel Roi René in Aix-en-Provence—both with fascinating histories.

Grand Hôtel de Cabourg: Built in 1907, the Grand Hôtel de Cabourg is set directly on the Normandy beach, just two and a half hours from Paris.

One of the few hotels in Normandy built directly on the beach, the Grand Hôtel offers a splendid, never-ending sea vista. Its majestic neo-Italian architecture, high ceilings, wide corridors, vast rooms and bathrooms imbue the hotel with a calm, eminently romantic atmosphere. This grandeur is accentuated by the materials used—wood, glass, stainless steel, velvet and taffeta—and which are enhanced by contemporary colours. Beginning in the lobby, the mirrors and large bay windows allow natural light to permeate the hotel end to end. Combining traditional and contemporary charm, the spacious, comfortable rooms facing the sea open onto terraces.

Refurbished by Studio Marc Hertrich/Nicolas Adnet, the hotel has renovated two floors of rooms, as well as its suites, restaurant and Marcel Proust reception hall.

“The goal was to bring this hundred-year-old building into the modern era, while respecting its history,” according to Marc Hertrich and Nicolas Adnet. “This required a blend of contemporary and traditional stylistic features to create a new vision of the charm, lyricism and elegance that characterize this holiday resort.”

 
Grand Hôtel Roi René: Located in the historic heart of Aix-en-Provence, the Grand Hôtel Roi René has been part of the city’s cultural heritage since 1929. The hotel, which resembles a typical Provençal bastide, was named for King René, under whose reign in the 15th century Provence prospered as a center of trade, culture and university life. Over the years, the hotel’s charms have attracted a number of celebrities, including Winston Churchill, who wrote his memoirs there.

The hotel features a subtle combination of classical and contemporary styling. The beige and gray color scheme, highlighted with touches of dark purple, and the materials—wood, stone and linen—add to the hotel’s sober elegance and authentic charm. Mirrors and large bay windows further accentuate its already well-lit interior. Subdued lighting and simple, graceful furnishings, combining wicker, cotton, wood and wrought iron, add to the visitor’s impression of calm.

www.accorhotels.com

7/16/2009 8:11:01 AM UTC    Comments 

Crop Over is Barbados' most popular and colourful festival throughout the summer attracting thousands of people from across the globe every year. To celebrate, the Elegant Hotels Group are offering last minute summer visitors 50% off at their stunning and sophisticated hotel, Colony Club.

Perfect for those people who remain undecided on their summer break Crop Over is the perfect excuse to combine culture with the Caribbean and take advantage of a 50% saving at Colony Club. Situated on the finest stretch of Barbados’ ‘Platinum’ West Coast, Colony Club is a timeless retreat restored from a former private Colonial Club, boasting four lagoon style swimming pools set amongst stylish grounds and is the perfect base from which to visit the Crop Over Festival.

Appealing to the foodies amongst us, guests at Colony Club are treated to a real slice of island life with its weekly schedule of gourmet events including a Bajan fish grill and a lobster and jazz evening – washed down with the contemporary new cocktail list featuring thirst quenchers such as raspberry fool and orange blossom martinis.

In addition to the weekly gourmet schedule, Daphne’s, the fine Italian restaurant made famous by its London counterpart sits just minutes from Colony Club and can be enjoyed by guests wanting to sample one of the islands’ best eateries – and new for 2009 the Barbados Gourmet Card offers a 25% saving on food in a range of top restaurants including Daphne’s and is available from www.barbadosgourmetcard.com

The Crop Over Festival kicks off with the Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes and the crowning of the King and Queen of the Festival.  The real fun runs throughout July and August with weeks of calypso music, live tuk bands, carnival shows, stunning costumes, processions, folk concerts, as well as art and photography exhibitions. The highlights of the festival, which are based around Bridgetown, includes the grand spectacle of the performing competition ‘Calypso’ followed by the Grand Kadooment, the festival finale where a carnival parade features large bands with members dressed in elaborate costumes to depict various themes. For a full schedule of events visit; www.barbados.org/cropclnd.htm

www.eleganthotels.com

7/15/2009 11:49:18 AM UTC    Comments 

Opening in late 2009, Alila Villas Soori will give the sophisticated traveler the option to stay at a luxury resort in West Bali. Located along the southwest coast of Bali in the Tabanan Regency, the stunning resort is just 10 minutes from the Tanah Lot Temple, Bali’s most sacred and most visited temple, and less than an hour from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Set in one of Bali’s most fertile and picturesque regions, Alila Villas Soori gracefully lies between beautiful black-sand beaches and verdant rice terraces with the mystical Mount Batukaru in the distant horizon.
  
Every one of its 48 luxurious pool villas connect living spaces to the soothing sights and sounds of the natural surrounds of the West Bali landscape, creating retreats and stay experiences beyond compare. Each villa provides panoramic views of the azure Indian Ocean or emerald stretches of rice fields and comes with a vast open-air inner courtyard that lets in natural light and light ocean breezes, an outdoor pavilion from which to enjoy the scenic views by day or night, and indoor and outdoor showers. The comforts within the villas are no less inviting. Custom designed interiors offer the absolute height in luxury and hi-tech functionality.

The exclusive Three-Bedroom Pool Villas offer contemporary living at its finest, subtly infused with the essence of the tropics. Exceedingly well designed, each is an exquisite example of space and privacy in perfect harmony. Conventional boundaries cease to exist as you move with ease between generous-sized living areas that seamlessly flow from one to the next, creating spaces for intimacy and entertaining. Landscaped gardens and architectural ponds blossom within living spaces that open onto outdoor pavilions and terraces, bordered by an infinity pool framed by panoramic ocean views.

Heightening the luxury living experience, in-villa hospitalities and facilities include butler service, 24-hour dedicated room service, gourmet bar, plasma TV, DVD player and iPods. Guests can indulge in the all natural spa treatments at Spa Alila, a secluded sanctuary located below the reflective pond at the reception level. Alila Villas Soori’s leisure concierge can also expertly tailor one-of-a-kind excursions and activities to meet guests’ personal interests.
 
www.soori@alilahotels.com

7/15/2009 11:43:49 AM UTC    Comments 

The Pullman Barcelona Skipper opens in the heart of the Catalonian capital... and on the shores of the Mediterranean.

The AB Skipper in Barcelona has become the Pullman Barcelona Skipper, Accor’s upscale hotel brand designed with the requirements of business women and men in mind.  It is the 40th hotel in the Pullman network and the brand’s second establishment to open in Spain, after the 2008 launch of the Pullman Madrid Airport & Feria.

Located in Barcelona’s Olympic Port, 50 metres from Barcelonata beach, 10 minutes from the city centre and the Barcelona International Convention Centre (BICC) and just 12 kilometres from the airport, the establishment offers a genuine living environment where friendliness, serenity and connectivity are the watchwords for meeting the expectations of guests at the Pullman Barcelona Skipper.  The hotel has
241 rooms including 11 junior suites.

The convention centre, comprising 9 reception rooms, is equipped with all the appropriate technologies (business centre, Internet corner, free WiFi), making it the ideal setting for events.  It can seat up to 800 people.

www.pullmanhotels.com

7/7/2009 9:18:56 AM UTC    Comments 

Following a comprehensive 20 month renovation, Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta will re-open in October 2009 to take its place as the most luxurious and contemporary hotel in the city.

The all new hotel will boast 272 guestrooms including 56 oversized and beautifully appointed Mandarin Rooms and six suites. All accommodation has been tastefully designed in a classic contemporary style by the renowned design firm Lim, Teo and Wilkes, combining modern facilities with the Group’s oriental heritage and Indonesian culture. The hotel will truly reflect Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s exceptional quality standards including state-of-the art guest centric in-room technology, which includes PC and iPod connectivity, 42” LCD televisions a complete in-room surround sound audio system and mood-control lighting.

The hotel will also offer a variety of innovative dining concepts, with four new restaurants featuring a range of international cuisine from quintessential regional Chinese to an authentic French brasserie experience. There will also be a signature Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop and a chic MO Bar overlooking the main Jakarta thoroughfare.

Leisure facilities include a state of the art fitness centre with personalized treatment rooms as well as an outdoor pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

“Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta first opened its doors in 1978 and quickly became one of the most refined meeting venues for Jakarta society and expatriate community,” said General Manager, Andrew Abram. “We look forward to showcasing the all-new Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta and to delighting guests once again with the Group’s renowned levels of hospitality.” 

To celebrate the opening, guests booking a two night stay at Mandarin Oriental Jakarta between 1 October to 28 December, 2009 will receive a US$50 credit which can be used in the hotel’s restaurants, bar and fitness facilities. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotion, is applicable to Delight and Seasonal Choice rates only and is limited to one voucher per room per stay. 

7/7/2009 9:14:00 AM UTC    Comments 

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will open its first luxury hotel in Southern Europe at the end of this year.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona will offer avant-garde luxury at the city’s most exclusive address. This exciting hotel pairs the legendary hospitality of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group with the inimitable character that has made Barcelona one of Europe’s foremost travel destinations.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is ideally located on Paseo de Gracia, Barcelona’s most prestigious address, at the very centre of the city’s commercial and entertainment district. The property provides easy access to the city’s finest shopping, dining and cultural venues and is a short walk from many major tourist attractions. From the hotel, guests will be able to stroll amongst the city’s celebrated promenades and architecture and enjoy the attractions of the famous Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter. Barcelona’s many museums, churches and parks are all close at hand and two of the most celebrated buildings by the city’s famous architect, Gaudi, are just a stone’s throw from the hotel. 

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is housed in the re-development of an elegant mid-20th Century building, which will also incorporate luxury retail at street level. On opening, the 98 room hotel will offer highly stylized and spectacularly creative interiors by internationally renowned Spanish designer, Patricia Urquiola. Each of its stylish guest rooms and exquisitely designed suites will provide guests with highly sophisticated in-room entertainment systems, reflective of the Group’s oriental heritage Mandarin Oriental’s renowned customer-centric technology. The hotel will also provide elegantly designed meeting and banqueting facilities.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona will offer fashionable, stylish dining with culinary flair in a choice of restaurants and bars that will be destinations in their own right. Guests will be able to take advantage of the temperate Mediterranean climate and enjoy al fresco dining in the hotel’s 660 sq metre spectacular garden or relax by the rooftop dipping pool with panoramic view over the city’s famous architectural skyline.

On opening, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona’s ideal location will make it the perfect place from which to explore this fascinating city, as well as offering an intimate and exclusive retreat to return to.

7/6/2009 9:15:15 AM UTC    Comments 

Situated in the heart of the Medina, maison mk a quirky six bedroom riad is offering a complete VIP party house experience. Fire eaters in the courtyard, clairvoyants predicting the future and henna tattooists merge to create the perfect traditional Moroccan celebration. No matter how simple or elaborate the occasion, the maison mk team will arrange everything from extravagant parties, sunset cocktails on the stylish roof terrace, pampering treatments in the on-site spa and hammam, VIP entrance into Marrakech’s hippest bars and personal shopping trips around the bustling medina.

The riad has six suites and is perfect for groups of friends or families. The open roof terrace, restaurant, refreshing pool, cinema room, spa and hammam will keep guests entertained day and night in comfort and style. maison mk takes the phrase ‘making an entrance’ to a new level, with camels leading guests through the winding passages of the medina to the riad where they enter a magical world of snake charmers, romantic story tellers and exotic belly dancers. 

maison mk opened in February last year and is the creation of professional fashion and portrait photographers Paul and Aoibheann Hopkins.  Their artistic vision has been implemented with their team of leading international interior designers and lighting consultants, and has led to the creation of a sophisticated space that surprises and delights. maison mk represents a glimpse of the Marrakech of tomorrow with cutting edge design concepts within a historic Moroccan framework.

maison mk is a perfect hideaway for groups of friends wanting a short break in this enchanting city or a once in a lifetime party they will never forget. Rooms start at €300 based on two sharing or €1500 for the riad as a whole.

www.maisonmk.com

7/2/2009 11:49:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced that for a limited time, it is offering savings of up to 29% off the Hyatt Daily Rate for stays at participating Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, and Hyatt Regency properties in key urban and resort destinations around the globe. For travellers who seek attentive service and attractive accommodation in prime locations, and seek a home base from which to explore memorable destinations, this guestroom sale is a perfect match.

With an average of 25% off of accommodation at Hyatt locations, guests can plan getaways that include more experiences with local cuisine, more shopping for artisan goods, and more pampering for true relaxation. The offer is valid for a limited time at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts worldwide.

In the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, guests receive up to 29% off the Hyatt Daily Rate. 

In Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia/Pacific, Latin America, and at Park Hyatt and Andaz hotels worldwide, guests receive 20% off of the Hyatt Daily Rate.

To take advantage of this global offer, guests may book the LTO Sale beginning June 19, 2009 with offer code LTO109 on the Special Offers page of www.hyatt.com,

7/1/2009 6:40:37 PM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina Club and Spa, marking its entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Set among beautifully landscaped gardens on the Corniche of Jeddah, Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa is an innovative five-star sanctuary where contemporary luxury and exceptional service meets unrivalled views of the Red Sea and King Fahd fountain. The hotel enjoys a prime location in the very heart of the city, within the esteemed Al Hamra District at the Equestrian Club of Jeddah, and just minutes away from the central business district.

Business and leisure travelllers will be welcomed with state-of-the-art meeting and business facilities as well an impressive array of sport and leisure pursuits. The commercial and financial districts, as well as the main shopping and entertainment areas of Jeddah are nearby, making Park Hyatt Jeddah the ideal launching point from which visitors can conduct business or explore the relaxing activities of the destination.

The multi-faceted resort is a remarkable engineering feat that reclaimed prime waterfront land from the Red Sea, while retaining the delicate surrounding marine life. The 34.5-acre (140,000 square metre) complex overlooks sweeping views of the sea and the world-famous King Fahd fountain with its more than 1,000-foot-high (312 meters) plume of water.

Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa is the ideal base for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages to Mecca or Medina. Located just 30 minutes away from the King Abdullaziz International Airport, Park Hyatt Jeddah is a well-situated stopover upon entering or leaving the region. Mecca is a convenient 45-minute drive from the hotel.

www.park.hyatt.com

7/1/2009 11:29:58 AM UTC    Comments 

Take advantage of up to 50% savings during the Vietnam on Sale when you make a booking at any participating Accor hotel through an online channel. The sale runs from July 7 until July 13, 2009 for stays during July 17 – September 30, 2009.   

Accor Advantage Plus members can make advance bookings from July 6, 2009 and enjoy an extra 10% discount. 

The participating hotels are:

Novotel hotels: one rate at US$45
- Novotel Ha Long Bay
- Novotel Nha Trang
- Novotel Dalat
- Novotel Ocean Dune Golf & Resort Phan Thiet

Others: one rate at US$75
- Grand Mercure La Veranda Resort & Spa Phu Quoc
- La Residence Hue 

Accor is currently the largest international hotel operator in Vietnam with 10 existing hotels and 10 development projects in the pipeline.

www.accorhotels.com

6/30/2009 8:35:16 AM UTC    Comments 

The Crowne Plaza Vilamoura, set to open in January 2010, will be the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Portugal. The new hotel is right on the Vilamoura beach, near the world famous Vilamoura Casino, 300 metres from the Algarve’s main marina, Marina Vilamoura, and 20 kilometres from Faro Airport. The hotel is within walking distance of five golf courses in Vilamoura, and only 20 minutes drive from other major courses in the Algarve.

The Crowne Plaza Vilamoura will have 327 rooms and suites, and impressive conference facilities with 1,200 square metres of meeting room space. There is a 760 square metre meeting room divisible into three, a 275 square metre meeting room also divisible into three, an executive boardroom for 12 people and 22 guest rooms that have been designed for use as meeting rooms when needed. A beautiful garden with large palm trees makes the hotel ideal for hosting outdoor events.

Crowne Plaza Vilamoura will also have a variety of entertainment facilities and restaurants, including one al fresco restaurant open most of the year, a 1,000 square metre outdoor swimming pool and a driving range supervised by the hotel’s golf pro.

Hylko Versteeg, director of development for Spain and Portugal, IHG, said: “Since introducing Crowne Plaza to Europe more than 20 years ago it has become one of the world’s fastest growing upscale hotel brands. Signing this deal with the Grupo Marope, which takes us into Portugal, is a milestone for us.”

“Crowne Plaza is an internationally renowned hotel brand, popular with business travellers across the world. This unique opportunity to open the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Portugal is an exciting move for us. We are confident the hotel will draw more business and leisure travellers to Vilamoura and indeed the Algarve,” explained Mario Vasco Pereira, Grupo Marope president.

6/29/2009 11:20:40 AM UTC    Comments 

With six European specialised conference venues in Belgium, France, Germany and Spain all meeting the International Association of Conference Centers standards, each property boasts an innovative meeting and conference experience, including industry firsts such as The Cube and Dinner in the Sky at Dolce La Hulpe Brussels and the infamous “Go Wild on Ice” available at Dolce Bad Nauheim.

Bookers can now take advantage of the ‘Inspiring Stimulus Programme’. Designed to provide productive and cost-effective meetings across Dolce’s European specialised conference venues, the programme promises businesslike and inspiring environments, while avoiding the high costs associated with off-site meetings.

Valid for any new meeting held in 2009, the hotel group is offering up to 35% off the complete meeting package pricing across its six European properties booked by the extended date of 14 August 2009.

Delegates will be able to take advantage of the hotel’s inspiring locations within forests, parks, vineyards and golf courses, feast on refreshments prepared by chefs trained under Alain Montigny, the MICHELIN® Guide 2009 Chef and experience Dolce Hotels & Resorts latest business signature service. Including print on demand, comfortably designed cyber corners, full WiFi access, e-cafes at Dolce Sitges and Dolce La Hulpe Brussels and ergonomic furniture, as well as in house AV teams and an executive concierge for meeting planners.

Steven A. Rudnitsky, Dolce president and chief executive officer commented: “Our expertise in helping clients hold effective meetings combined with our venues practical locations, designed and equipped for maximum efficiency and value, provides a fiscally responsible formula for bringing people together to achieve their business objectives. Yet despite our sharp focus on business needs, we haven’t forgotten that inspiration is the key to innovation and creativity. Dolce meetings achieve a perfect balance”.

www.dolce.com/meetings 

6/24/2009 2:19:30 PM UTC    Comments 

Just in time for the school summer holidays, Accor Hotels is launching a ten day UK summer sale offer across the Novotel, Mercure, Ibis and Etap brands. Bargain hunters can take advantage of up to a 50% discount on room prices at Mercure and Novotel hotels, 30% off rooms at Ibis and 15% off rooms at Etap during this sale beginning on Saturday 20 June. Rooms must be booked by 23.59 on Monday 29 June 2009 for stays between 17 July and 6 September.

This offer is ideal for cash strapped Brits who still want to get away this summer. With over 130 hotels all over the UK, the options are endless:

Stay at one of the 31 UK Mercure hotels from £30 per room per night. Mercure is a collection of hotels with character and individuality ranging from stylish, modern city centre properties to country houses set in their own grounds.

Stay at one of the 31 UK Novotel hotels from £30 per room per night. Novotel hotels are style-led, spacious and consistently offer top quality services. At Novotel, families receive a special welcome with easy-on-the-budget prices and extras for children including free overnight stays and breakfasts for under 16s. Children can enjoy the range of facilities at each Novotel, many of which have swimming pools and dedicated childrens’ areas.

Stay at one of the 53 UK Ibis hotels from £29 per room per night. Ibis hotels are in prime city, town and airport locations across the UK offering a range of services including WiFi, bar, restaurant, 24-hour food and reception.  

Stay at one of the 17 UK Etap hotels from £28 per room per night. Each Etap hotel features signature modern, comfortable bedrooms and an ‘all you can eat’ continental buffet breakfast at only £2.95 with a 24 hour / 7 days a week ‘Fraiche Etap’ self service food offer. Rooms come equipped with ensuite bathrooms and flat screen TVs.

To book visit www.accorhotels.com or call 0871 663 0624

6/20/2009 6:19:57 AM UTC    Comments 

The Afamia Rotana Resort in the historic city of Latakia, on Syria’s Mediterranean coast. Located on a sandy peninsula, two kilometres from Latakia city centre, the new five-star Afamia Rotana Resort brings a new level of comfort and a host of leisure activities to the city.

The Afamia Rotana Resort is within easy distance of Syria’s historical sites including Ugarit Canaaite, the seaport, crusaders forts, castles and ancient Roman vestiges.

Rotana is currently offering special introductory rates from approximately £75* per room, per night, including complimentary breakfast.

The hotel is situated on a private golden sand beach with beautiful marina views.  There are two swimming pools, massage rooms, a tennis court and a children’s playground club.

Commenting on the new hotel, Mr. Imad Elias, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Rotana said, “We are very proud to be managing this landmark property, our first five-star resort to open in Syria. The Afamia Rotana Resort team, headed by General Manager Safwan Khayat, has been working hand in hand with the owner and Rotana Corporate Office to ensure all areas of the opening are perfected."

The resort offers meeting and event facilities to host annual conferences and seminars. From one day meetings to extended seminars, the resort’s acclaimed individualised service, attention to detail and superior accommodation will ensure a meeting experience that is flawless, productive and unforgettable.

www.rotana.com

6/19/2009 9:16:44 PM UTC    Comments 

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts is reintroducing the Summer Savers concept so that guests can make the most of this summer. Room bookings through swissotel.com lead to attractive savings everywhere from Osaka to Lima, from Sydney to Chicago and from Amsterdam to Moscow.

Summer Savers offer a 15% discount off the best available rate on the exciting range of business and vacation spots of the international hotel chain. Guests may choose from 28 destinations in 15 countries worldwide.

This offer is available from 1st July until 12th September 2009 and includes all room categories available at the time of booking, and is valid for stays of one night or more. Depending on the country, taxes and service charges are included in the rate.

www.swissotel.com 

6/18/2009 6:13:13 AM UTC    Comments 

Travellers will be able to take advantage of savings of up to 60% when they book on-line between 23 – 29 June, for stays between July 10 and September 30, 2009.  Over 250,000 room nights will be on sale, with rates starting as low as US$25 per night.

The 27 cities include Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Hanoi, Manila, Mumbai, Sydney and Auckland.

Different rates apply for Accor’s various brands, with Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, All Seasons and Ibis hotels participating, providing a vast range of affordable options during the 2½ months.

The Accor ‘City Super Sale’ coincides with record-low air fares across the Asia Pacific region, allowing travelers to enjoy some of the world’s most exciting cities at bargain rates.

Reservations – via  www.accorhotels.com/supersale  (sale starts June 23)

6/17/2009 5:56:13 AM UTC    Comments 

The Lanesborough, London’s most prestigious address, has just become the first and only hotel in London to provide each and every guest room with a complimentary Sony VAIO laptop for use throughout their stay.

These state of the art laptops are the latest addition to the hotel’s already impressive list of complimentary services which ensure that The Lanesborough maintains its loyal following. Guests also enjoy wireless internet and email access; music and movies on demand; a change of clothing pressed upon arrival; fruit and mineral water replenished daily; tea and coffee served on arrival and with daily wake up calls; personalised business cards and stationary; and 24 hour butler service.

This is another first for The Lanesborough, who continues to pip their rivals to the post by acquiring the very best products and services for their guests, once again putting them ahead of the competition

6/16/2009 9:25:54 PM UTC    Comments 

The five red star Chester Grosvenor and Spa, located in the heart of Chester, invites you to throw caution to the wind and enjoy a high octane life this summer with their exclusive driving experience packages.

The result of a partnership between luxury Chester business, Northern Ferrari Hire specialists in self-drive luxury car hire and Chester’s iconic city centre hotel, The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, there are five supercars to choose from; Ferrari 360 Spider; Aston Martin DB9; Maserati Gran Tourismo, Lamborghini Gallardo Roadster and Ferrari F430 Coupe.

The Exclusive Wheels weekend will include two nights at The Chester Grosvenor and Spa in a Deluxe room including Continental breakfast and dinner on one evening in the Michelin-starred ‘Simon Radley At The Grosvenor’ restaurant. The car of your choice will be available from noon on Friday until Sunday evening for you to explore the delights of Cheshire. (Prices from £929 per person.)

For a rather special midsummer treat, this exclusive package is available on 17-19th July, the weekend of The Cholmondeley Pageant of Power and Fireworks Concert, both held at Cholmondeley Castle, some 20 miles south of Chester.  Arrive in style at the events and turn a few heads! (Prices from £979 per person including Paddock tickets to the Pageant of Power on Saturday 18th July and tickets to the evening Fireworks Concert also at Cholmondeley Castle.)
 
Managing Director of The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, Mr Jonathan Slater, commented,‘Being a car enthusiast myself, I cannot imagine a better complement to our hotel than the keys to one of these stunning, powerful cars. Even in these tough times there are always occasions when one feels the urge to really splash out on a special weekend.’ 

www.chestergrosvenor.com

6/11/2009 4:50:16 PM UTC    Comments 

Save more than £200 on seven-night stays in Turkey 

Depart on 26 June 2009 for the Club Med Turkish resort of Beldi from only £749 per adult and £536 per child including flights a saving of up to £246 per adult and £123 per child.

Discover the treasures of Turkey at Club Med Beldi, a resort bathed in glorious sunshine with facilities to engage even the most preoccupied of visitors. The resort boasts excellent leisure activities including kayaking, sailing and archery, tennis and circus school. Beldi is the ideal place to indulge in both an active break and a cultural escape, with the old town of Antalya and the Roman theatre of Myra only hours away.

Alternatively, visit the Turkish resort of Kemer to experience cultural delights and brush up on your water sport skills. Fly on the 26 June 2009 and stay seven days from only £729 per adult including flights - a saving of up to £266.

An area sheltered by wild countryside and quite bays, Kemer Club Med Resort is ideal for those who want an action-packed escape. Boasting a plethora of water based activities including water skiing, wake boarding, wind surfing as well a Fitness Academy®, this is the perfect place to get in shape and have fun in the sun. This is a destination that caters perfectly for the young adult with a vibrant nightlife on its doorstep. Guests can savour the fantastic local cuisine offered at the Resort before heading out on the town with friends. This is an adult-only Resort.

Club Med’s generous holidays includes:

Return flights from London and transfers between the airport and resort
Accommodation in a Club room
All meals with wine, beer and soft drinks, open bar and snacks
A wide range of group classes and sports activities
 
www.clubmed.co.uk

6/11/2009 10:56:58 AM UTC    Comments 

Alila Villas Uluwatu, the first luxury all pool villa property in a new generation of Alila Hotels and Resorts properties is now open. Situated on an elevated plateau along the southern coastline of Bali, Alila Villas Uluwatu offers breathtaking views of dramatic limestone cliffs sweeping down to the Indian Ocean.

In celebration of its opening, Alila Villas Uluwatu has launched a Double Indulgence package, which will offer guests a complimentary night’s stay for every night booked at this luxurious resort. Guests staying between 1 June 2009 till 31 July 2009 will be able to enjoy this package, with a minimum two-night stay.

Designed by award-winning Singaporean architecture firm, WOHA, the property marries environmentally sustainable design properties with style. The property was designed and constructed in accordance with Green Globe standards. Awarded the prestigious Green Globe “Best Practice Building Planning and Design” certification, Alila Villas Uluwatu is the first resort in Bali to meet the program’s rigorous standards.

WOHA used the natural sloping terrain to the property’s advantage allowing each of Alila Villas Uluwatu’s villas to be individually tiered, providing guests with panoramic views of the ocean and the horizon, regardless of their villa’s location. This prestigious development offers 52 one-bedroom pool villas, 2 two-bedroom pool villas, 5 three-bedroom Cliffside pool villas and 25 private villas.

Besides the stunning natural landscape and architecture, Alila Villas Uluwatu will also provide each guest with a high level of personalized services and luxury options. From their arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport (a convenient 30 minute drive away), guests will be indulged and pampered. Each villa will have host (butler) service and guests can choose between three different levels of service from “private” to “indulgent”. Whichever service they choose, guests will have their every whim and fancy catered to.

A collection of special bespoke activities and experiences, known as “Journeys by Alila”, will bring the very best of Bali to the guests in the comfort of Alila Villas Uluwatu. Guests may select from a host of Journeys, from the spiritual to the adventurous. Each Journey will then be specially customized for specific guests, leaving them with unforgettable memories of their trip to Bali.

Sean Brennan, general manager for Alila Villas Uluwatu, says, “We are proud to launch this ultra-luxurious all-pool villa hotel residences property in Bali. With this, Alila Hotels and Resorts renews its commitment to the beautiful island of Bali.”

6/10/2009 10:39:44 AM UTC    Comments 

Accor has announced the opening of two beachfront Mercure resorts on Southern Thailand Island - of Koh Samui – Mercure Samui Buri and Mercure Samui Fenix. Mercure Samui Buri Resort marks Accor’s first mid-scale hotel on the island. The hotel is situated on the secluded northern Maenam Beach. The location is perfect for couples on a honeymoon or those in need of a relaxing break. On the east of the island is Lamai Beach, the location of the new Mercure Samui Fenix. The hotel borders lush jungle and has access to isolated bays, small local villages and temples.

www.accor.com

6/8/2009 8:04:44 AM UTC    Comments 

An Oriental institution, The Mandarin opened in 1963 and occupies a fabulous location on the waterfront of Hong Kong Island. The recent US$150 million refurbishment has seen the property given a technological overhaul while the rooms have been expanded and a Mandarin Spa and fitness centre, housed across three floors, has also been added.

www.mandarinoriental.com

6/8/2009 7:52:29 AM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has launched a new mobile website that allows guests to find and book hotel rooms through any web-enabled device. The service, called Hyatt Mobile, allows guests to make and change reservations and check in or out. Special offers, corporate and group rates and maps are also available. Mobile users who navigate to hyatt.com will be automatically directed to Hyatt’s mobile website. Members of Hyatt Gold Passport may view account details and receive special offers.

www.hyatt.com

6/8/2009 7:49:02 AM UTC    Comments 

This August, Alila Villas Hadahaa will showcase new horizons and be the first luxury island to welcome guests in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Southern Maldives.

The opening of the resort heralds a truly unparalleled journey in island living and destination discovery… a celebration of life, culture, environment, romance, wellness and so much more. To commemorate our opening, Alila Villas Hadahaa is delighted to introduce its Year 2009 ‘Gift to Share’ Program to all guests by waiving accommodation charges for every second night!

Guests may in turn, share this Gift by donating an amount of their choice to support their preferred Maldivian community project as follows:

• Expanding the reference libraries in the local schools for Maldivian children
• Working with local artisans to re-introducing Maldivian traditional crafts into primary schools and share the knowledge of the past with Maldivian artists of the future
• Support community farming projects to provide the sustainable food supply for the islanders and enable them to develop a commercial enterprise in supplying upcoming resorts

Year 2009 ‘Gift to Share’ Program includes the following benefits : For every night paid at opening rates, Alila Villas Hadahaa will provide one night without accommodation charge as a gift for our guests to share in the local community causes,  guests will be invited to share this Gift and donating an amount of their choice in place of the room charge to support their preferred Maldivian community project, two complimentary Alila Experiences for stays of 7 nights or more, complimentary full breakfast in Relish Restaurant, complimentary Alila hospitalities and Villa amenities and an Alila welcome gift.

About Alila Villas Hadahaa
Alila Villas Hadahaa is an exciting new vacation option in the Indian Ocean. In one of the widest and deepest natural atolls in the world, it is the first designed and built Green Globe certified upscale hideaway in the Maldives that really does full justice to the unblemished Maldivian seascape. The resort embraces ecological, intellectual, intimate, cultural and luxurious living concepts that translate into Alila Journeys. 50 spacious, sun-bleached villas with alfresco timber decks overlooking stunning gardens and ocean views
comprising 14 Aqua Villas stilted over water and 36 Island Villas, many boasting their own private pools. Dine at Battuta’s, drink at Bell’s, dive in the unspoilt waters, or relish the solitude under the stars on magnificent display in the night skies.

www.alilahotels.com

6/5/2009 8:26:37 AM UTC    Comments 

The new and highly anticipated Kempinski Hotel Aqaba, Red Sea Jordan, has finally opened today! Boasting 201 luxury rooms and suites all with sea views, a variety of international cuisine, world class MICE facilities and a stunning spa with a number of innovative signature treatments on the menu, this hotel opening marks the 3rd Kempinski property on the golden shores and azure waters of the Red Sea!

The Kempinski group has been specialist hoteliers for over 100 years and this hotel is yet another example of their expertise in luxury. Aqaba offers year round sunshine and some of the best diving and coral reefs in the world. The contrast in scenery makes this city one of the most beautiful in Jordan with its mountainous backdrop and white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees.

Located on the sandy shores of the Red Sea, it is an ideal location for those who simply want to switch off and relax. There is however, plenty to do for the more energetic; the hotel is only a stones throw away from a variety of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities, not to mention the hotel’s own entertainment, including; trips on private yachts, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, snorkelling and swimming, a private beach, the Kids Club and most important of all guests can enjoy an array of organised tours to popular tourist attractions, such as Petra, Wadi Rum and the Bedouin Camps.

All 201 rooms and suites within the hotel enjoy a sea view, which has been made possible due to clever design work and the curved contemporary building, shaped in the form of a tear-drop. The distinctive prevailing structure and spectacular interior design is complemented throughout with state of the art technology.

General Manager, Alejandro Bernabe, has said of the launch, “this hotel opening is one of Kempinski’s most exciting. When one thinks of Jordan both the Dead Sea and the Red Sea come to mind as two of Jordan’s top attractions, which is why the Kempinski Hotel Aqaba will complement our Amman and Dead Sea hotels perfectly, allowing guests the chance to enjoy the very best of Jordan in the country’s finest hotels and resorts.”

Cox & Kings has seven nights from £1,225 per person, including six nights at the Kempinski Aqaba, one night at the Kempinski Amman, international flights with Royal Jordanian Airlines, domestic flights, private transfers and breakfast.

www.coxandkings.co.uk

6/1/2009 12:16:29 PM UTC    Comments 

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) today announced Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express as the ‘Official Hotel Services Provider to London 2012’ and a Tier Three commercial partner.

Holiday Inn, part of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), will provide LOCOG with additional capability and expertise in the accommodation sector, supplying experienced personnel to assist in the planning and operation of the Athletes’ Village.

Currently undergoing a £600 million global relaunch, Holiday Inn will supply team members to work with LOCOG’s Accommodation and Protocol teams in the lead up to the Games in 2012. 

Holiday Inn, along with other hotels in the IHG stable, will also provide accommodation and meeting rooms for LOCOG and its partners’ as it builds towards the Games. 

London 2012 Chairman Lord Sebastian Coe commented: “Providing a smooth customer experience for athletes, spectators and dignitaries throughout their time at the Games can be a key challenge for any Organising Committee. For us to have Holiday Inn join our family provides us with another great pool of knowledge and skills to ensure that all of those attending the Games, whether from within the UK or from abroad, as competitors or spectators, will have an enjoyable and memorable experience. The global expertise of Holiday Inn in welcoming visitors and meeting customer needs will be vital between now and 2012.”

Andy Cosslett, CEO, IHG said: “With the £600 million relaunch of Holiday Inn well underway, being selected to welcome guests from LOCOG and its partner organisations to our hotels is perfect timing.  Just like the world class sportsmen and women who will stay in the Athletes Village, we’ll bring our own world class team to Stratford to make life as easy as possible for the athletes so they focus on the task in hand – competing and winning medals.”

6/1/2009 10:11:54 AM UTC    Comments 

With the recession still looming over us, there is no better time to consider the all-inclusive option to make that dream holiday still possible. Whether you are in the mood for complete relaxation, want to spend your holiday lying on the beach or are looking for the ultimate in choice and service, four of Beachcomber Hotels’ eight Mauritian properties are offering a variety of fantastic packages to cater for all tastes within a fair budget.

The concept behind all-inclusive holidays at Beachcomber Hotels is not just about the choice and quality of the food and beverages; it also covers a range of exclusive items such as snacks throughout the day, unlimited drinks or land and water sports. This is perhaps why the demand for all-inclusive holidays in Mauritius is growing so steadily! An obvious choice for families, all-inclusive packages are equally great for couples wanting to get away from it all or for friends travelling in a party.

Unlike many hotels offering all-inclusive packages, Beachcomber Hotels allows for a fantastic range of choice. The beautiful Shandrani Resort & Spa offers a particularly impressive collection of options within the ‘Serenity Plus’ all-inclusive package. This is the very first fully inclusive luxury resort in Mauritius and each guest can take advantage of the following inclusions:

A choice of five restaurants, four a la carte at Le Sirius, Porto Vecchio, Le Boucanier, Teak Elephant and buffets at Le Grand Port
Unlimited champagne, beer, wine and soft drinks
Complimentary mini-bar
Beach, pool and room service (tray charge for room service only applies)
One complimentary 45-minute massage
All water-sports, including water-skiing and glass-bottom boat
All land-sports
Access to Fitness Centre
Bob Marlin Kids Club for children aged 3 to 12
Nightly entertainment
Taxes

Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Shandrani Resort & Spa from £1,649 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Superior Room on the Serenity Plus basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

Le Victoria Hotel is one of the most popular family resorts on the island, also offering Beachcomber’s All-Inclusive Package at an optional supplement of just £26 per adult and £13 per child per day; covering the cost of all meals and drinks as well as value-added items as outlined below, making holidaying at this resort all the more simple and relaxing. Guests may also enjoy facilities at Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia Hotels:

All meals, with at a choice of three restaurants with a choice of menu, ‘A la Carte’ or international buffets
Unlimited selected wines and drinks during lunch and dinner and at the Corail Bleu Bar
Sandwiches from 12pm to 5.30pm
Pastries from 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Pool and beach service
Picnic basket
Complimentary mini-bar and in-room tea and coffee
Wide choice of land and water sports
Access to Fitness Centre, sauna and hammam
Mini-club for children aged 3 to 12
Taxes
 
Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Le Victoria from £1,499 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Superior Room on an All-Inclusive basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

Sister resorts Le Canonnier Hotel and Le Mauricia Hotel in the north of Mauritius and close to Grand Baie, also provide the perfect all-inclusive option for guests wishing to get their money’s worth at £20 per adult and £12 per child per day. Guests of either resort can enjoy facilities at both – so double the fun at no extra cost!
 
Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Le Canonnier from £1,369 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Standard Garden Facing Room on an All-Inclusive basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

All prices are based on June 2009 departures including the Late Booking offer, which is 15% off all stays at any of the aforementioned resorts from 1 June to 30 September 2009.

www.beachcombertours.co.uk  

5/29/2009 12:19:33 PM UTC    Comments 

The Greenway, Cheltenham is set in a delightful location not too far from the centre of Cheltenham nestling in the lee of the Cotswold Hills.  Sprawling grounds and manicured gardens surround the magnificent historic manor house making it a perfect venue for family occasions! 

Situated a short distance from the Manor House the Coach House used to be the original stable block of the Greenway Estate and were transformed into spacious bedrooms in the late 1980’s.  The Coach House is perfect for families offering more privacy and spacious bedrooms.

The Greenway’s welcoming and attentive service, mouth-watering food and stylish décor will ensure you have a really great experience and will guarantee that Dad is made to feel very special!  

Rate: From £240 per room, per night.  (£35 per extra bed in a family room)

To book: www.thegreenway.co.uk or 01242 862352

5/21/2009 9:56:22 AM UTC    Comments 

One of the world’s best beaches is now home to the pinnacle of luxury resorts, with the opening of InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa on Natadola Beach, the pride of Fiji’s Coral Coast.

Spread across 35 acres of tropical gardens, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is the sole destination resort on Natadola Beach – the only stretch of natural, white sand beach on the main island of Fiji, Viti Levu. Protected by a reef to create an aqua-blue ocean facing lagoon, Natadola Beach was voted by Forbes Magazine in 2008 as one of the 25 best beaches in the world. 

A true destination resort, InterContinental Fiji has been created to provide a luxurious pacific retreat for discerning travellers seeking more than just a beachside getaway.  From the overall design and layout of the resort itself through to the smallest details, InterContinental Fiji is a visitor’s gateway to authentic Fijian experiences.

Special opening rates from FJ$280.00 inclusive taxes, room only per night.  This rate is subject to availability, for travel before the end of 2009.

www.intercontinental.com/fiji.

5/21/2009 8:28:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Jo’burg has seen the opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton. Situated in the heart of Sandton's business and financial district the hotel is within walking distance of Nelson Mandela Square, the Sandton shopping centre and Johannesburg's Stock Exchange. The 15-storey hotel has 290 guest rooms including 33 suites. Radisson is focusing on South

Africa prior to the World Cup. Also newly opened is the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town, a 177-room oceanfront hotel. Upcoming developments include properties in Port Elizabeth (2009), Blaauwberg, Cape Town (2010), and another Johannesburg development, the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton Central (2010).

www.johannesburg.radissonsas.com

5/10/2009 4:24:12 PM UTC    Comments 

The award-winning Dutch hotel group citizenM has officially opened the doors to its second hotel the 215 room Amsterdam City Hotel. Located on Prinses Irenestraat in Amsterdam's booming financial district, between the World Trade Centre and city centre and just minutes from the city's cultural attractions, the new hotel focuses on where today's mobile citizens want and need to go ... just like its groundbreaking first hotel at Schiphol airport, which opened to resounding acclaim in June 2008. Rates per room are 69 -149 euros.

www.citizenM.com

5/10/2009 4:15:10 PM UTC    Comments 

British travellers are going barmy for the UK’s seaside destinations, according to leading hotel booking website Hotels.com. The site has seen searches for many of the country’s traditional seaside resorts more than double – showing that British travellers are eager to holiday at home this year.

The English Riviera is the most popular destination this year for British holidaymakers, with searches for towns such as Torquay and Newquay up more than 160% on this time last year. With their beautiful sandy beaches and fantastic surf, Devon and Cornwall are set to be a huge hit with British travellers this summer.

The lures of rock, fun on the pier and strolls along the promenade have also seen searches for traditional British seaside destinations like Blackpool (140%), Llandudno (130%) and Brighton (50%) rocket. Jersey, offering the excitement of a British seaside resort with a Continental influence, is also a popular choice this summer with searches up 120% on this time last year.

Alison Couper, Director of Communications at Hotels.com, says: “It is great to see renewed interest in Britain’s traditional seaside resorts. With a hot summer forecast and UK hotel prices at a record low, there has never been a better time to holiday at home and enjoy everything the UK has to offer.”

www.hotels.com

5/10/2009 9:19:51 AM UTC    Comments 

W Hotels Worldwide marks its entry into the Middle East with the opening of the W Doha Hotel & Residences and merges traditional Arabian imagery with the contemporary cool design of the W brand.

W Doha includes 291 guest rooms, 31 suites, and 154 W branded Residences and is conveniently located in the West Bay of Doha on the Qatar peninsula, providing easy access to Doha’s world-class shopping destinations, pristine beaches and water sports facilities, first-class greens of Doha Golf Club, and scenic Corniche waterfront district.

www.starwoodhotels.com

5/3/2009 11:17:38 AM UTC    Comments 

Park Hotel Group has celebrated the opening of Grand Park Xian in China's ancient capital famed for the 'Terracotta Warriors'. The 338 room, 5 star Grand Park Xian is adjacent to the ancient City Wall in the heart of the city’s business, shopping and entertainment district.

www.parkhotelgroup.com

5/3/2009 11:13:38 AM UTC    Comments 

The Langham, Yangtze Boutique, Shanghai will open its doors on 1st May 2009 with a quintet of introductory offers, enabling guests to experience the glamour of the Golden Age of Old Shanghai in a unique Art Deco masterpiece, in the heart of the city.

http://yangtzeboutique.langhamhotels.com

4/19/2009 4:31:54 PM UTC    Comments 

Guests at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport can now ‘check in’ as they ‘check out’.

The 320-room hotel has introduced a dedicated counter for passengers to check in for Singapore Airlines or SilkAir flights, at the same time as they check out of their rooms.

4/15/2009 8:32:35 AM UTC    Comments 

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is encouraging and rewarding travel with the launch of its richest promotion yet - SPG Free Weekends. 

With this unprecedented offer, both existing and new members of the Starwood Preferred Guest® programme (SPG) who stay two times at any of Starwood's hotels between May 1 and July 31, 2009 can earn one free weekend night (Friday, Saturday or Sunday).  There are no limits to the number of free weekend nights that can be earned, and earned nights can be combined to make a longer weekend stay. The nights are redeemable without blackout dates through the end of September.

www.spg.com/freeweekends  

4/15/2009 8:27:39 AM UTC    Comments 

Accor announces the official opening of the Mercure Homestead Residences Bangalore. Located amidst the serene environs of upmarket Koramangala, the hotel is within 5 kilometres of major corporate businesses and IT parks.

Mercure Homestead aims to appeal to the globally attuned business traveller as Vinay Gupta, General Manager, Mercure Homestead Residences puts it: “There is a huge need in Bangalore for truly business class serviced apartments, especially for people opting for long stays. With Mercure Homestead we hope to address this need, by providing first rate serviced apartments, comprehensive leisure facilities and full services.”

Mercure Homestead Residences offers 126 luxury suites, including nine - 2 Bedroom apartments and 1 Executive Suite, most with private balconies. Ideal for long stays, Mercure Homestead Residence offers the perfect blend of business convenience and leisure, with a gymnasium, swimming pool and day spa.

www.accor.com

4/12/2009 11:14:07 AM UTC    Comments 

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts recently opened its second hotel in Taiwan. The Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel is centrally located within Tainan City, the hotel is adjacent to Tainan Railway Station. The 38-storey 336 room hotel is only a 15-minute drive from the airport and a 20-minute drive from the Tainan High Speed Rail Station (THSR), providing easy connection for locations both within Tainan and away from the city.

The 321 room Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast opened its doors in the heart of Beijing’s busy Chaoyang business district and is their ninth hotel in China’s capital. To celebrate the opening the hotel is currently offering a seven-day advance purchase rate of 900 CNY (£90.00) per night. The promotion is valid through August 31, 2009.

Golden Tulip has gone into voluntary receivership. The hospitality group, which owns 60 hotels directly with an additional 720, franchised or affiliated across more than 50 countries, said on Tuesday declining occupancy rates and the cost of investing in new hotels had led to financial losses.

Golden Tulip said it was discussing with smaller Dutch group Apollo Hotels & Resorts and private equity firm H2 Equity Partners about a possible merger.

The 156-room London Marriott Hotel Twickenham has opened under a management agreement with Rugby Football Union and Marriott International. The hotel sits at Twickenham Stadium, the home of English rugby.

To celebrate its opening the hotel is currently offering a special rate of ₤125 per night.

4/11/2009 10:38:37 AM UTC    Comments 

Wyndham Worldwide, one of the world's largest hospitality companies, has expanded the innovative Women on Their Way programme to include an online community where women can exchange ideas, request advice and share tips on topics ranging from family travel to great books to read on the road.

Users will be able to sign up for a free membership to become contributors to the online community. Members may post to message boards on topics including: girlfriend getaways, travel with pets, romantic trips, multi-generational travel, business travel, safety tips, destination weddings and honeymoons, budget travel, GLBT-friendly travel and more.

www.wyndhamworldwide.com  

4/11/2009 10:24:10 AM UTC    Comments 

A Travelsupermarket.com survey has highlighted the comeback of the traditional British holiday park this summer.

In a poll of 2,012 adult Brits one in 10 are more likely to visit a holiday park this summer due to the credit crunch.

Travelsupermarket says nostalgic Brits plan to flock to the likes of Butlins, Pontins, Haven and Center Parcs this year, even so 6% said they haven’t been to one since they were a child.

www.travelsupermarket.com

4/11/2009 10:12:49 AM UTC    Comments 

Langham Place, Mongkok, Hong Kong has been voted as one of the top five hotels in the world by Qantas frequent flyers.

This was the first time the survey had been done.  In the survey Qantas questioned their frequent flyers on the comfort of the hotel’s beds, the location, the leisure facilities, the views, the service, restaurant facilities and value for money.

Langham Place was the only hotel in Hong Kong to appear in the top five.  Other prestigious properties awarded ‘top five’ status included Shangri-La and Swissotel The Stamford in Singapore, Bellagio in Las Vegas and Pathumwan Princess Hotel in Bangkok.  No rating was given as to 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th.

Announcing the award on their website, Qantas described Langham Place, Mongkok, Hong Kong as: “A superb hotel in a fantastic location...within walking distance to Hong Kong’s famous markets. This hotel has mastered the art of making their patrons 'feel good' with their outstanding attention to detail, service and luxurious surroundings. Nothing has been forgotten, this hotel features every conceivable modern indulgence including an indulgent day spa.”

www.langhamhotels.com  www.qantas.com.au

4/9/2009 9:34:52 AM UTC    Comments 

Intercontinental Hotels Group have opened the 328-room Crowne Plaza Paris Republique It’s their fifth Crowne Plaza in France and the second in Paris, alongside the Crowne Plaza Paris Champs Elysees.

Built in 1865 during Napoleon III’s reign, the building boasts the classic Parisian Haussmann-style exterior and a historic inner courtyard and is located metres from the Republique metro station and within minutes of many of Paris’ key attraction. It is just three stops from the Gare du Nord, home to the Eurostar terminal and with high speed trains to both Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports.

IHG is due to open the 162-room Crowne Plaza London Kensington on 21 April after an £8 million refurbishment.

Located opposite Gloucester Road tube station, the property’s Victorian facade contrasts with its contemporary interior. Here guests can relax in the Traffic bar or StreetSide restaurant, serving modern British cuisine, or recharge in the fitness suite.

IHG’s President Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), Kirk Kinsell, said: “Opening new properties in the heart of two of the world’s most vibrant capital cities is testament to the strong reputation that Crowne Plaza has amongst business travellers.”

www.ichotelsgroup.com

4/9/2009 9:32:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Some occasions don't just demand a suitably grand setting - they also call for a little more. That's why we've designed this special Celebration Package. We want to make sure, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or an achievement, a birthday or any other special event, that it will be fondly remembered for many years to come.

So where better than Summer Lodge Country House Hotel and Spa, deep in the heart of the Dorset countryside! Nothing can match it for the sheer get-away-from-it-all charm and tranquillity.

The Celebration Package includes:

A night in a beautifully appointed bedroom
A bottle of Champagne on arrival
Three course dinner in the award-winning Dining Room restaurant
Full English Breakfast
A ½ hour neck, back and shoulder massage in the Spa per person

Prices start from £350 per room per night (inclusive of VAT), based on two people sharing a Superior Room. This offer is available until 18 December 2009, excluding the months of July and August, and is subject to availability.

www.summerlodgehotel.com

3/28/2009 12:07:34 PM UTC    Comments 

Everyone loves a Big Deal and Hong Kong loves making them. From now until the end of the year, The Langham, Langham Place and Eaton Hotel are offering an all-inclusive Big Deal package.

The Big Deal covers the four essentials of modern travel – exquisite accommodation, full breakfast, broadband internet and dinner. If you don’t take dinner on the first night – the credit can be accumulated and used the following evening.

Prices are from £101.00 at the Eaton Hotel £137.00 at the Langham Place and £156.00 at The Langham. Each of these lively offers can be booked through Langhamhotels.com and are subject to availability.

Bob van den Oord, Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Langham Hotels International said: “Even in today’s climate, people still want the luxuries in life but they don’t want the hassle of searching for it. They’re making shorter trips, staying closer to home and most importantly evaluating the best deals in the market – that’s why we’ve launched the all-in-one Big Deal.

“Hong Kong is known around the world as a shopping paradise and what better way to build excitement than a Big Deal tailored for today’s luxury traveller,” he added.

www.langhamhotels.com

3/28/2009 11:04:50 AM UTC    Comments 

Dads will be truly spoilt this Fathers Day at Luxury Family Hotels with a number of dedicated packages available across the collection. There are free childcare facilities in all of the hotels and for older children there are games rooms and swimming pools to keep them busy. Couples can enjoy dinner together in the fine-dining restaurants - all with excellent wines and choice menus, while the children are monitored by the baby-listening systems or by a qualified hotel babysitter.

Fowey Hall - Papa Pamper Package: Hop down to Cornwall to enjoy a long weekend this Easter at Fowey Hall which was the inspiration behind Toad Hall in 'Wind in the Willows' .The hotel sits in a spectacular location overlooking the sailing and fishing port of Fowey on the South Cornish coast, within its original walled gardens and with commanding views of the river estuary and far out to sea.

Prices for the three night break start from £465 BB per room, based on two adults sharing a double room.  Children stay for free when sharing their parent's room, paying only for meals taken.  Rates are also inclusive of hotel facilities.

The Ickworth hotel - Shoot it, Catch it, Eat it!: Situated in 1800 acres of National Trust Parkland on the Ickworth Estate and occupying the East Wing of the house, The Ickworth hotel which was formerly the Hervey family home, never fails to make a big impression on visitors.

On Sunday 21st June, join The Ickworth's qualified shooting coach for a trip off the estate, where he will work with you to shoot game in season. On returning to the hotel, you will be introduced to the chef who will explain the preparation and cooking processes. Later that evening at dinner your prepared and cooked "catch" will then be served for you to enjoy in Fredericks the hotels, 2 AA Rosette restaurant. £175 per person for the shooting day, stay overnight after your day of shooting from £240.00 DBB for two people on the Sunday night?
This shooting day is only available on Fathers Day, 21st June.

Moonfleet Manor - Cooking with Dads Package: They say the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach, so show your dad a little bit of love by cooking up a lovely weekend away to Moonfleet Manor on Father's day this year!

Moonfleet Manor, overlooking the world famous Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon, is set in the heart of some of England's least discovered, yet most staggeringly beautiful countryside. This handsome Georgian manor presides over a naturally inspirational location of world heritage status.

On arrival Dad will be greeted with a local cheeseboard and glass ale to set him up ready for his comfy bed. On the Saturday, Dad will be truly spoilt with a relaxing massage, cooking masterclass by head chef Tony Smith and an afternoon wine tasting session followed by a relaxed dinner. On Sunday, the weekend will come to a glorious end with a family barbeque and games in the hotels grounds.

Prices from £610 DBB per room for two night stay for two adults. Children stay for free when sharing their parent's room, paying only for meals taken.  Rates are also inclusive of a Sunday lunch BBQ, one treatment, cheeseboard & ale, 2 x Masterclasses, hotel facilities, indoor swimming pool, hot tub, baby listening service and Ofsted registered crèche.
Package only available on Fathers Day weekend.
 

www.luxuryfamilyhotels.com

3/16/2009 12:43:26 PM UTC    Comments 

Delicious grey shrimps from Zeebrugge, the best turbot in the world, succulent “col vert” duck, traditional lace cookies and decadent chocolate truffles… these are just a few of the Belgian treats you can learn how to rustle up during a stay at Bruges’ only five star deluxe hotel, the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace. Known for its impressive restaurant Manuscript, the Dukes’ Palace has been attracting guests with its gourmet credentials since opening in 2008 and is now offering new cooking classes with the chef to enable guests to recreate the culinary magic once home.

Set within the hotel’s very own kitchen, the cooking lessons are led by a team of in-house food and wine specialists – chef Philippe Soupart and sommelier Guido Francque. After an explanation of the recipes you will create, and the ingredients you will be working with, roll up those sleeves and get to work under the supervision of the specialists who will be on-hand for step-by-step by guidance throughout the dishes.

Once the hard work is done, the Dukes’ Palace Sommelier will lead you in a tasting of sparkling wines accompanied by canapés before you sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labour together with wines expertly pared with each dish.

www.kempinski-bruges.com

3/12/2009 10:44:37 AM UTC    Comments 

Oakwood has opened a new property in London. The Oakwood Steward Street in London is located on a quiet street in the historic Spitalfields area.

“The area around Oakwood Steward Street boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, markets, galleries and other interesting sites,” said Oakwood Worldwide Senior Vice President and General Manager Gavan James. “Each apartment is of a high quality finish with contemporary furniture, fully-equipped kitchens and luxurious bathrooms. All of this, coupled with Oakwood’s unparalleled customer service and commitment to excellence, make our apartments a comfortable home away from home for the business and leisure traveller alike.”

Oakwood Steward Street is located near the vibrant and architecturally historic area of Spitalfields market, featuring many retailers that offer cutting edge fashion and accessories. The area also contains quaint streets central to many restaurants, including Brick Lane with its world-renowned Asian restaurants and the cultural street theatre characters that entertain, while still being in the centre of the London financial district.

www.oakwood.com

3/1/2009 3:22:37 PM UTC    Comments 

In a move to help stimulate tourism to Phuket, Laguna Resorts & Hotels in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a “100,000 Smiles in Laguna Phuket” promotion.

The global marketing initiative features six Laguna Phuket hotels offering up to 100,000 complimentary room nights in an attempt to reverse the slowdown in tourist arrivals to the holiday island of Phuket.

TAT Governor, Ms Phornsiri Manoharn is lending the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s full support to the Laguna Phuket campaign. She said, “We applaud Laguna’s bold incentive to attract visitors to the Kingdom. In these challenging times everyone in Thailand’s tourism industry must work hard together and help each other to restore our declining tourism numbers. We really hope that this promotion brings 100,000 smiling faces to visit Thailand.”

The “100,000 Smiles in Laguna Phuket” promotion offers a one month booking window from 1st to 31st March for stays from 15th March until 15th December 2009.

The promotion is available utilizing Best Available Rates at Banyan Tree Phuket, Sheraton Grande Laguna, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Laguna Beach Resort, Laguna Phuket Holiday Residences or Laguna Holiday Club Phuket Resort.

Those who book online at the hotels’ respective websites between 1st to 31st March 2009 will receive one complimentary night’s stay on the consecutive night at the Best Available Rates that are only found online.

It should be noted that a minimum of 2 paid nights is required for bookings at the Sheraton Grande Laguna during April, July, August, October, November and December. Only one night is required at the other hotels.

3/1/2009 3:20:32 PM UTC    Comments 

Calling all ladies. Leave the boys at home and grab the girls for a fun-filled break to The Four Seasons Hotel in Perthshire where the Ultimate Girlfriend’s Getaway package is launching in April.

Valid from 1 April to 31 October 2009 and from only £144 per person, the Ultimate Girlfriend’s Getaway package encompasses the very best in food and drink, with relaxation, shopping and exciting outdoor activities.

Girlies can enjoy:-
• Overnight accommodation in a chalet
Overlooking the loch and once used by the Beatles at the height of their fame
• A four course gourmet (and guilt-free) dinner as well as full Scottish breakfast
Ladies will be served dinner in the two AA Rosette Meall Reamhar Restaurant and Head Chef Gordon Wood is happy to create a guilt-free menu for those watching their waistline. Tasty dishes which can be low in carbohydrates, high in protein, low in fat, or whatever the diet of choice, will ensure all guest’s needs are more than catered for
• Pink clay pigeon shooting
A great day out for all, from beginners to show-offs
• A sunset speed boat trip
The perfect way to end the evening and take in the simply stunning scenery around the beautiful Loch Earn
• A wicked chocolate tasting session
Resident Head Chef, Gordon Wood, will provide an array of chocolate treats to sample

The Four Seasons Hotel, with its fabulous position on the banks of Loch Earn, exudes a tranquil and relaxing ambience and having won the Good for the Soul Food Award many times, girls are also in for a real culinary treat. All this and only an hour from both Glasgow and Edinburgh by car

www.thefourseasonshotel.co.uk

3/1/2009 3:18:27 PM UTC    Comments 

Chateau des Vigiers Golf & Country Club has a reputation for excellence and the French resort has never been so accessible with the launch of an exciting new offer for 2009.

Golfers are being given the opportunity to enjoy a four-night stay in the luxury resort, which is situated in the Dordogne region in the south-west of France, for as little as 405 euros.

The promotion runs until the end of the year and means anyone booking for three nights at Chateau des Vigiers in one of their ’Classic’ or ‘Tradition’ rooms can get an extra night free.

In addition, guests can enjoy four days’ unlimited golf on any of Chateau des Vigiers’ three nine-hole loop golf courses designed by Donald Steel, three three-course dinners in their exclusive restaurants and full access to the spa facilities.

www.vigiers.com

3/1/2009 3:15:17 PM UTC    Comments 

Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire is highlighting a range of properties where couples can enjoy a four-night break for a total of just £99 – just £12.50 per person, per night.

The offer – which can be taken until 27 March - is available at 35 cottages in coastal and countryside locations throughout the county.

In addition, some of the properties featured can accommodate more than two people, with the cost for each additional person being £49.

www.coastalcottages.co.uk

3/1/2009 3:11:49 PM UTC    Comments 

Hard-pressed holidaymakers have found a free way to get away – swapping homes.

UKHolidaySwapShop.co.uk, a new website which puts like-minded people in touch to arrange temporary home swaps, has reported a surge of applications from people desperate for a bargain break.

“Britain has been hit hard by the recession, but people still want to get away on holiday,” says co-founder Dave Wiltshire.

Some of the properties on the site include a 10-bedroom former B&B in Newquay, a two-bedroom flat in North London, a swish Edinburgh apartment, a Grade II-listed stately home in Derbyshire and a picturesque barn conversion in the Cotswolds.

www.UKHolidaySwapShop.co.uk

3/1/2009 3:07:06 PM UTC    Comments 

Budget chain Travelodge has created a Business Account Card offering corporate travellers credit for the first time. With eight weeks credit available, the company aims to assist companies with their cash flow in the current economic climate, as well as claiming to provide prices lower than rivals.

The launch of the Business Account Card comes a month after the launch of a price check campaign, which compares Travelodge room rates to all of its competitors in every major hotel market in the UK. Given that the average executive spends 43 nights a year in hotels, the savings that can be made by switching from a mid-market hotel are substantial, the company claims.

www.travelodge.co.uk

3/1/2009 3:05:24 PM UTC    Comments 

Marriott has opened a new hotel in Shenzhen, China, one of the fastest growing cities in the world. The 411 room JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen is the fifth JW Marriott branded hotel in China.

JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen offers spacious rooms and suites, fully equipped with 42-inch flat screen TVs, high-speed internet, rainforest showers, oversized work desks and 24-hour room service. The executive lounge on the 27th floor provides a panoramic view of the city skyline.

Centrally located in the heart of the city, the hotel is surrounded by shopping malls and has easy access to major landmarks such as the Shenzhen Convention Exhibit Centre, Shenzhen Window of the World Safari Park and TianAn Cyber Park.

Other JW properties can be found in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chongqing and  Beijing.

www.marriott.com

3/1/2009 3:04:01 PM UTC    Comments 

Bangkok has so much on offer two days are often not enough so the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok has launched a promotion enticing you to stay just a little longer.

The ‘Summer in the City’ promotion costs THB 9,000 (£176.00) per room per night (based on double occupancy) includes:

• accommodation
• daily buffet breakfast
• complimentary third night with any two consecutive nights booked
• chilled Martini and a choice of Tapas at Aqua outdoor lounge.

www.fourseasons.com

2/22/2009 12:46:40 PM UTC    Comments 

There has been a 29% increase in the number of UK holidaymakers searching for single-night holidays – or “nano-breaks” – over the past year, according to Hotels.com.

Alison Couper, Communications Director for Hotels.com, said: “All of our research shows that people see holidays as a right not a luxury and the rise in searches for nano-breaks is further evidence of holidaymakers’ determination to keep travelling.

“The simple act of going on holiday for just a single night is relaxing and a change from the stresses and strains of life, so travellers are keen to make sure that they are getting away from it all, if only for a couple of days.

“With falling hotel prices in many destinations and fantastic deals on sites like ours, with up to 50% off, now is a great time to take that break.”

www.hotels.com

2/22/2009 12:14:30 PM UTC    Comments 

Holiday Inn Express® hotel has opened near the Ottawa International Airport. The 91-room hotel is ideally located within minutes from the Ottawa International Airport, golf courses and restaurants, shopping and corporate offices such as IBM.

Guests will be within a short driving distance of Ottawa’s downtown core and businesses such as Canada Post, Bank of Canada and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and several government offices. Nearby tourist attractions include Moneys Bay Beach, South Keys Shopping Centre, the Rideau Carleton Race Track & Slots and Nepean Sportsplex, making the Holiday Inn Express hotel a convenient option for both business and leisure travellers alike.

www.ichotelsgroup.com

2/22/2009 11:27:23 AM UTC    Comments 

Centara will open an exciting and innovative themed resort hotel in Pattaya in August 2009. The new 5 star Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya will have 555 ocean-facing rooms with the design based on an exciting 'Lost World' theme and will include family rooms with a separate children's themed bedroom complete with bunk-beds. 

Guests staying in Club Mirage rooms will have access to the exclusive twelfth floor Club Lounge offering both indoor and outdoor areas with sea views and a whole host of special Club Lounge benefits. The landscaped grounds will be home to a variety of swimming and leisure pools, including a children's pool with sand beach, infinity pool, lap pool, large free-form pool, and a lazy river and waterslides.

www.centarahotelsandresorts.com

2/22/2009 11:21:12 AM UTC    Comments 

1st May sees the opening of The Langham Yangtze Boutique, Shanghai, which will be the city's only five-star art deco luxury boutique hotel. Set in a prime location at the heart of Shanghai's central business district adjacent to Nanjing Road, the property is just a stone's throw from the city's major cultural and entertainment highlights including The People's Square, Shanghai Grand Theatre, Shanghai Municipal Government and The Bund. The hotel features 96 art-deco rooms and suites.

www.langhamhotels.com

2/22/2009 11:16:04 AM UTC    Comments 

Carlson Hotels is offering an additional 3,000 bonus Gold Points for members of its goldpoints plus loyalty programme who stay three nights at any global Carlson property before April 30, 2009.

The ‘3 for 3’ promotion does not require the nights to be consecutive, and members have a maximum earning potential of 6,000 bonus points (for six nights) during the promotional period.

Carlso Hotels include Regent, Radisson, Park Plaza, Country Inns and Suites and Park Inn properties.

www.carlsohotels.com

2/22/2009 11:13:39 AM UTC    Comments 

The Novotel Nathan Road Hotel in Hong Kong has launched a Super Saver promotion with room rates from HK$ 800++ per night.

The Super Saver package is valid until 26 March 2009 and includes:

Standard Room benefits:
• In-room high speed Broadband Internet access
• Daily local newspapers
• Free local telephone calls
• Free access to hotel’s InBalance fitness room

Buffet breakfast can be had for just HK$80++ per person.

www.accor.com

2/22/2009 11:05:40 AM UTC    Comments 

London's Victoria & Albert Museum has launched its latest, highly anticipated exhibition, Magnificence of the Tsars. Spanning a period of almost two centuries from the early 1700s, this extraordinary exhibition focuses on the dress and uniforms of Emperors and the Russian Court.

Situated diagonally across from the V&A, the five-star Egerton, one of London's chicest boutique hotels and part of the Red Carnation Group, has put together the special V&A Tsars package to coincide with the exhibition. Available through March 29, 2009, the package includes:

• Minimum two-night stay
• Early check-in and Late check-out
• Guaranteed upgrade
• English breakfast each morning
• Exhibition tickets to the V& A including exclusive access and use of the elegant Members' Lounge

•Ice cold Vodka martini served in frozen glasses accompanied by Caviar blinis one evening of your stay
• Afternoon Tea one day and a glass of pink champagne
• Guests staying two or more nights in the hotel's V&A suite receive a complimentary private talk or tour by the exhibition curators, at the musem or in the privacy and luxury of your own suite

The V&A Tsars package is priced from £349 per room per night, inclusive of VAT, and subject to availability.

www.egertonhousehotel.com

2/8/2009 1:06:33 PM UTC    Comments 

Best Western International has re-named its hotel loyalty program “Best Western Rewards”. The name change, from Gold Crown Club International, helps re-brand the twenty-year-old program as what it truly is: a program that rewards travellers for their loyalty to Best Western.

Members of Best Western Rewards earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent, and free nights start at 8,000 points. Members can earn and spend points at more than 4,000 properties in 80 countries worldwide.

Best Western Rewards offers four tiers of membership: Blue for first sign-up; Gold Elite membership for those who stay at least 10 nights per year; Platinum Elite for members who stay at least 15 nights per year; and Diamond Elite for members who stay 30 or more nights in a year. Membership is free.

www.bestwestern.com.uk

2/8/2009 12:55:58 PM UTC    Comments 

Until 28 February 2009, Hotel Jen Hong Kong, situated on Queen’s Road in the Western District, is offering guests who book online a special discount on stays of more than one night.

The “Longer You stay, The Less You Pay” promotion means that guests will enjoy a 20% discount on their second night and 30% on their third night stay based on the Best Available Rate. Any additional nights over three will also be discounted by 30%.

The offer includes a daily buffet breakfast for all Jen Room and Suites guests, and Standard Room guests will also enjoy a complimentary breakfast on stays of two nights or more.

www.hoteljen.com

2/8/2009 12:54:00 PM UTC    Comments 

A budget Singapore hotel is offering 'pay what you want' rates to mark its opening.

Customers can log onto the hotel's website during designated sales periods and name their price for available rooms ahead of the opening of Accor’s Ibis Singapore on February 12.

Hiro Inoue, Ibis Singapore marketing director, said bids have gone as high as S$100 dollars but that any price offered - even one dollar - would be accepted, subject to availability.


Several thousand visitors have registered since the promotion began and the first days' rooms were sold out in minutes with bookings coming from all over the world, he added.

However, Accor has no plans as yet to use the bidding system for its other hotels.

http://paywhatyouwant.com.sg/

2/8/2009 12:52:26 PM UTC    Comments 

The passion and flamboyance of Spain and Seville come to the Royal Albert Hall in February with the return of Carmen, for a very limited season of just 12 performances.

To celebrate this five-star production, the five-star Milestone Hotel, situated just a few hundred yards from the Royal Albert Hall, opposite Kensington Palace, is offering the Carmen & The Milestone package, which includes:

• One night in a room category of your choice
• Welcome glass of champagne on arrival
• Two tickets to Carmen at the Royal Albert Hall
• Pre-show bespoke three-course dinner for two
(dessert taken on return from opera)
• VIP Bentley transfer to the Royal Albert Hall
• Full English breakfast in bed

The Carmen & The Milestone package is from £489 per night based on double occupancy, inclusive of VAT, exclusive of gratuities. This package is available from 26 February through 8 March, subject to availability.

www.milestonehotel.com  

2/2/2009 10:23:22 AM UTC    Comments 

There’s a benefit to planning, and paying, ahead. As a reward for those who book and pre-pay early, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts offers FairmontSAVERS, a new booking incentive representing savings of 30% off the best available rate. With many travellers looking for ways to stretch their money this year, Fairmont is introducing the new programme as a way of saying "thank you" to its loyal guests.

This fully pre-paid, non-refundable, advance purchase offer must be booked 14 days in advance for city centre hotels, and 21 days in advance for resorts. Full pre-payment for the entire stay is due at the time of booking. The FairmontSAVERS 30% off reward is non-refundable in the event of cancellation, and is non-transferable. FairmontSAVERS is currently available until 31st December 2009

All rates are based upon availability and do not include tax, gratuity or service charge.

www.fairmont.com

2/2/2009 10:15:48 AM UTC    Comments 

Half term is nearly here and Retallack Resort & Spa in Cornwall is offering a fantastic rate of only £95 per person for one week in a 2 bedroom lodge over the half term week (13th – 20th February) and free bike hire for the whole family!

Complete with a fabulous concierge service that will offer you tips and advice on local attractions, Retallack Resort is a gorgeous collection of self catering lodges ideally positioned amongst Cornwall’s green rolling hills. Enjoy some quality family time together, grab your bikes and take in the Cornish air by exploring the famous Camel Trail with breathtaking views of the area and gentle rides along the spectacular North Cornish coast. Return to the resort for more family fun with more complimentary activities including a visit from Newquay Zoo and Newquay Aquarium offering your kids a chance to hold small beasties and aquatic life and listen to an educational wildlife chat that will bring adventures on land and under the sea to life.

With Padstow, Wadebridge and Newquay and local attractions such The Eden Project all on your doorstep, there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy this Half Term.

Retallack Resort is 8 miles from Newquay Airport and 8 miles from Bodmin Parkway train station.

www.retallackresort.com  

1/25/2009 12:48:29 PM UTC    Comments 

Members of Accor’s A|Club loyalty program can now earn 2,000 bonus points (equivalent to €40 or U$60) when they stay for two nights at participating Accor hotels before March 8, 2009. There are over 2,000 Accor hotels participating in the A|Club program.

The A|Club is a free membership program that allows members to earn points for staying at participating Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, all seasons, and ibis hotels. Members can redeem points for vouchers or frequent flyer points.

To qualify for the 2,000 bonus points, members must book online and stay on two separate occasions for a total of two nights or more at participating hotels.

As A|Club points are converted into vouchers, these can be used at any time, with no black out periods or restrictions.

www.accor.com

1/25/2009 12:38:14 PM UTC    Comments 

Marriott has officially opened the 658-room Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel. It’s their fifth in Hong Kong.

The hotel is located adjacent to the Hong Kong International Airport and the Sky Pier ferry terminal, which is scheduled to open later this year, and connected via a covered footbridge to AsiaWorld-Expo - a 70,000 square meter international exhibition center and convention center including an arena - the hotel’s world class facilities and services help boost the attraction of the area.

The Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel comprises 658 guest rooms over 11 floors, including 1 presidential suite, 32 suites and 119 executive rooms. All rooms are tripled-glazed and feature Marriott’s new bedding package and the latest in-room technology with unique views of the ocean or golf course.

The hotel is also one of the only properties in Hong Kong to offer guests convenient golf packages with access to the adjacent SkyCity Nine Eagles golf course, and is the first to boast the territory’s only Marriott spa experience, the Quan Spa. It also offers an extensively equipped health club, including an impressive 27-meter indoor pool, sauna, steam rooms, jacuzzi and a 24-hour gym.

www.marriott.com

1/23/2009 9:01:20 AM UTC    Comments 

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts today joined parent company Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ partnership with UNICEF by launching the unique programme ‘Art is Life’ across its entire network of hotels and resorts in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. As part of the Check Out for Children partnership, ‘Art is Life’ gives guests the opportunity to support UNICEF’s HIV prevention programmes in Africa through the addition of a £1 or €1 (or its local currency equivalent) donation upon checkout. 

www.starwood.com

1/22/2009 8:58:40 AM UTC    Comments 

Marriott Rewards members can now redeem points for free nights at 2,900 hotels every day of the year, without any blackout periods.

“Our members have told us that they want to be able to use their points on their terms,” said Ed French, senior vice president, Marriott Rewards. “By eliminating blackout dates, we are giving our members more choice and making it easier for them to travel when and where they want.”

Other changes to the Marriott Rewards program include:

- For every four-night stay redeemed, members will receive a fifth redemption night free for that stay.

- Platinum Elite members’ bonuses will increase from 30 to 50% of the total points earned during their stay.

With the elimination of blackout dates, Marriott Rewards members will have greater access to redemption nights at the company’s brands including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, TownePlace Suites by Marriott and SpringHill Suites by Marriott.

Marriott Rewards points can be redeemed for hotel stays, frequent flyer miles with 32 airline partners, cruises, car rentals, brand-name merchandise, luggage delivery service and more.

www.marriott.com

1/21/2009 8:54:35 AM UTC    Comments 

Book a ‘Girlie Weekend’ pamper dinner, B&B break at the stylish Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel & Spa, near Camberley, Surrey and have a great time away with the girls from just £139 per person per night. Sure to refresh and invigorate, the self-indulgent breaks include two relaxing Decleor spa treatments and complimentary use of the VITAL Spa facilities.

Check into your room from 2pm where you will find a white towelling robe and slippers, which are yours for the duration of your stay. Head down to the spa for a tour of the facilities and chill out in the relaxation suite before your treatments – a back, neck and shoulder massage and an express facial. And at any time throughout you are welcome to make use of the 17 metre heated indoor pool, rock sauna and aromatic steam room, or if you feel energetic, have a work out in the split level Technogym.

After an afternoon of pampering, ease yourself into the evening with a complimentary glass of wine in a comfy sofa before enjoying a delicious four-course dinner in the hotel’s two AA Rosette Linden Restaurant.

Extra nights B&B start from £45 per person based on two sharing and if you would like a fun night out with the girls, book a taxi into Royal Windsor where you can experience the town’s clubs and bars until the early hours.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/frimleyhall

1/18/2009 4:51:33 PM UTC    Comments 

The Fairmont Battery Wharf has opened on Boston’s vibrant waterfront. Set in a private enclave, Fairmont Battery Wharf is a sophisticated retreat for business and leisure travellers.

The contemporary hotel has 150 guestrooms and is located along the Boston Harborwalk that stretches from Charlestown to Dorchester. The hotel is also within walking distance of the Freedom Trail, New England Aquarium and provides a water taxi service to Logan Airport and other harbour-side locations

www.fairmont.com/batterywharf

1/18/2009 4:49:56 PM UTC    Comments 

Starwood has announced the opening of three Le Meridien properties in Asia Pacific. The debut of Le Meridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa marks the brand's second resort in China, while Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort and Le Meridien Chiang Mai further expand the brand's growing portfolio in northern Thailand.

The opening of these three new Le Meridien properties highlights the significant development of the brand in Asia Pacific. Le Meridien currently operates 23 hotels in the region, including, Le Royal Meridien Shanghai and Le Meridien Cyberport, Hong Kong.

www.starwoodhotels.com

1/4/2009 12:48:05 PM UTC    Comments 

Budget hotel chain Premier Inn has unveiled plans for its innovative ‘Floatel’ (floating budget hotel) - a first for the British budget hotel industry.

Britain’s largest budget hotel chain aims to build the ‘Floatel’ in Hartlepool Marina during 2009. It will be the first time a budget hotel has been purpose-built on water.

The ‘Floatel’ is needed because there is a growing demand for additional hotel accommodation in the Hartlepool Marina area but little viable building space on-land. The new hotel will have 54 bedrooms, each able to accommodate two adults and two children under 16, and will feature ensuite bathroom, TV and Internet access, as is standard in all Premier Inns.

www.premierinn.com

1/4/2009 12:46:33 PM UTC    Comments 

Special Villas is offering savings of up to 30% in low-season and up to 20% in July and August at its collection of stunning villas in the Bordeaux region of France. The discounts will be applied to all bookings made before 31 January 2009 for a minimum one-week holiday at any of the properties.

Choose from one of eight properties where facilities include spacious ensuite bedrooms, cinema rooms, modern well-equipped kitchens, large dining-areas and lounges, some with pianos, and outside, tennis courts, table-tennis, croquet and swimming-pools.

Getting there: by rail from Kings Cross St. Pancras to Libourne; or by air from most UK regional airports to Bergerac or Bordeaux.

www.specialvillas.com

12/24/2008 10:03:15 AM UTC    Comments 

Woo your Valentine with a ‘wicked’ break to The Roxburghe Hotel in Edinburgh, with each of the ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ included in this indulgent Valentine’s package.

The package is available as a two night break on 13 and 14 February 2009 and is priced at £499.00 per person. Every couple booking the Valentine’s package will be placed into the Roxburghe’s prize draw to win a champagne limo tour around the city.

 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/roxburghe

12/24/2008 9:56:06 AM UTC    Comments 

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has doubled its management portfolio in Vietnam with the opening of the Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi, a 5-star property located in the heart of downtown Hanoi. The group opened the Mövenpick Hotel Saigon in July 2008.

The colonial-style Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi stands beside one of Hanoi’s most prominent business/residential buildings and home to local headquarters of IBM and HSBC.

http://group.moevenpick.com/

12/7/2008 9:48:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has officially opened the W Hong Kong. Located in a glittering, new waterfront skyscraper in the heart of the city’s vibrant new commercial, entertainment and cultural district, W Hong Kong features 393 guest rooms, including 42 suites.

The hotel features Asia’s first Bliss Spa and boasts two signature restaurants, one of the city’s most highly elevated swimming pools, a 73rd floor modern fitness facility, 8,200 square feet of convertible, state-of-the-art meeting and event space, and the quintessential W lounge experience.

www.starwoodhotels.com

11/2/2008 5:38:52 PM UTC    Comments 

Langham Hotels International has signed a new loyalty partnership with Emirates’ frequent flyer program – Skywards –, which reaches over 3.8 million members.

www.langhamhotels.com

10/26/2008 8:53:06 PM UTC    Comments 

Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is due to open the Sheraton Chicago Northbrook Hotel on September 28.

This newly constructed property located in Northbrook, Illinois, one of Chicago’s most prestigious North Shore suburbs is a sleek, modern hotel features 161 spacious guest rooms, personalized service and an interactive setting where guests can stay connected while on the road.

Sheraton Chicago Northbrook Hotel is just 14 miles from Chicago O'Hare International Airport and a short drive to downtown Chicago. Ideal for weekend getaways and overnight business trips, especially with the close proximity to local  attractions and the the offices of many major corporations including Kraft Foods, Crate & Barrel, Walgreen Company and Allstate Insurance.

Committed to green living, Sheraton Chicago Northbrook Hotel has taken measures to lessen the impact of hotel operations on the environment including the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products, low-energy light fixtures, and water-saving landscaping and recycling practices. In addition, hotel associates understand the importance of recycling and increasing sustainability.

www.starwoodhotels.com

10/21/2008 10:20:13 AM UTC    Comments 

Disney’s Tinker Bell the movie is officially released on DVD – 10th November.  To celebrate the release, Disney has teamed up with Millennium & Copthorne Hotels to offer some fantastic prizes!

Over the October Half Term, children aged between (3-12 years) staying at any Millennium & Copthorne Hotel in the UK will be given an activity book where they can find the fairies, spot the fairy difference, colour in the characters and complete the word search.

On the back of the books is a chance for one lucky winner to win all 5 fairy dolls, a bedroom makeover set, a copy of the Tinker Bell DVD and stay at our Millennium Hotel London Mayfair. Runner-up prizes include a copy of the DVD and a bedroom makeover set. The activity books will be available in the hotels until 30th November 2008. Answers to the question can either be posted back to our corporate office or given to reception. Winners will be picked at random.

www.millenniumhotels.co.uk

10/21/2008 9:33:06 AM UTC    Comments 

Select Apartments, a specialist in the corporate serviced apartment sector, is reporting a shift away from traditional hotel bookings in favour of short-to medium-term apartment rentals throughout the UK. It believes this is a direct result of the current economic situation.

Companies can expect to save up to 30% on the cost of equivalent hotel accommodation when booking a serviced apartment and minimum stay requirements can be as little as one night.

For organisations with teams or individual business travellers working on projects or relocating with their families to other parts of the UK, Europe or beyond, then the ability to organise a real ‘home-from-home’ is rapidly becoming a serious alternative to the traditional hotel stay. With the added benefits of superb locations, space in which to relax, work and entertain, wireless broadband connectivity, in-house gyms, reassurance of 24-hour service and no gardening, living in a serviced apartment can be even simpler than living at home!

www.selectapartments.co.uk  

10/21/2008 9:03:27 AM UTC    Comments 

Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces has unveiled its 137 room Taj Residency Trivandrum, a new world-class premium business hotel in Thirunvananthapuram, formally known as Trivandrum.  As the latest addition to Taj Hotels, the property offers the finest in hotel facilities located right in the heart of the city and just ten kilometers from the airport.

Announcing the launch at a press conference today, Mr. Manoj Mathew, General Manager, said, "Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is part of our domestic expansion. With key government establishments, corporate offices and proximity to high-end residential areas, the city presents an excellent opportunity for a new age business hotel such as ours."

He further added, "The hotel is a beautiful amalgamation of modern European and Indian design undertaken after extensive research which reflects the changing needs and lifestyles of today's modern clientele. We will offer our guests unparalleled experience, encompassing the essence of Indian hospitality, synonymous with the Taj Group." 

www.tajhotels.com

10/14/2008 10:08:12 AM UTC    Comments 

 Kuoni Travel offers seven nights at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island in a Deluxe Beach Villa on bed and breakfast basis, including flights with Sri Lankan Airlines from Heathrow with seaplane transfers in resort and airport lounge in the UK. Prices for November 2008 start from £2801 per person based on two sharing.

www.conradhotels.com

10/14/2008 9:37:51 AM UTC    Comments 

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announced the opening of a new $45 million 118-room Staybridge Suites in Las Vegas. The upscale extended-stay property is the city’s first Staybridge Suites hotel.

The new five-story all-suite hotel, originally built as a timeshare facility, features two well-designed spacious suite options (deluxe studio and one-bedroom).  All suites offer balconies with views of the bright lights of Las Vegas and include in-room DVD/CD players; functional, well-lit work stations with ergonomic seating, two-line speaker phones with direct-dial number, personal voice mail and complimentary local phone calls, and fully equipped kitchens.

www.ichotelsgroup.com

10/14/2008 9:00:20 AM UTC    Comments 

The Fallen Angel, in the heart of the historic city of Durham, in England’s north east, has raised the bar when it comes to luxury, to deliver a visitor experience taking theming to a whole new level.

This ten-bedroomed has had £2 million of investment, with every penny being spent with the intention of allowing guests to explore a myriad of moods, fantasies and dreams.

The Fallen Angel is small, exclusive and extravagant. Some of its rooms are theatrical; some simply quirky; others breathtakingly romantic. Nostalgia, passion, emotion and drama intertwine to give this hotel an indescribable personality that oozes from every keyhole.

Choice number one will be whether to plump for one of three secluded garden apartment suites that each come with their own private hot tub, or whether to stay in one of the fabulous rooms within the converted Grade II listed townhouse.

Themes for the garden apartments are Le Jardin, Sci-Fi and Premiere, these focusing on gardening and outdoor life, space and time travel, and a night at the movies, respectively.

Inside the house, the themes are the Library, the Edwardian Express, Le Boudoir, Cruella, The Cruise, New York and the Russian Bride (a fabulous, top floor penthouse suite).

The view from the Fallen Angel is as magnificent as the décor within it. From the front, guests are rewarded with sightings of the World Heritage Site of Cathedral and Castle, whilst at the rear, scenic views of the beautiful River Wear, University cricket pitch and old racecourse are equally as pleasing.

Prices range from £150.00 - £300.00 per room per night and include full English breakfast other than in the case of the New York self-catering apartment.

www.fallenangelhotel.com

10/7/2008 9:55:54 AM UTC    Comments 

Following the success of their main Israel brochure, EL AL's tour operator Superstar Holidays has announced its winter programme to Eilat on Israel's Red Sea coast.

Flights will be with EL AL's subsidiary Sun D'Or from Stansted commencing 27th October and extending through to the end of May 2009.

Eilat is the ideal choice for a winter break for families, individuals and couples a like offering non-stop sunshine and a good choice of hotels, many of which offer spa packages. It is well known for its excellent entertainment and nightlife, as well as being a tax-free haven, perfect for a shopping trip.

From Eilat, holidaymakers can visit Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, across the border in Jordan, as well as take a range of Superstar Holidays excursion including a Taste of Israel Tour taking in many of the well-known historical and religious sites including Jerusalem, Massada and the Dead Sea.

Superstar Holidays also offer a range of activities including a dive programme for all levels of experience, as well as snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and other water sports activities.

Prices including flights and transfers start from £599.00 per person at the Dan Panorama on a half board basis.

For reservations, please call 020 7121 1500 or 0161 834 6553

9/29/2008 12:56:07 PM UTC    Comments 

Controversial gourmet Gordon Ramsay is set to open his first hotel. The GBP4 million (US$7.4 million) York & Albany will open in London’s Regent’s Park this week, with the ten-room townhouse hotel owned by Gordon Ramsay Holdings, and the restaurant being run by Ramsay’s culinary right-hand woman, Angela Hartnett. “We're niche, stylish, British, real and much better value. We’re not hoteliers on a grand scale but we believe we can compete on a smaller level,” Hartnett said.

9/29/2008 12:44:00 PM UTC    Comments 

Swissôtel Le Plaza Basel in Switzerland is now giving guests the opportunity join guided tours on two wheeled Segway Personal Transporters (PTs), the first, self-balancing electric vehicles ever developed. The hotel has employed 7 Segway PTs for guests to hop on and zoom around Basel for up to 2.5 hours, at a speed of up to 15km per hour.

www.swissotel.com

9/29/2008 12:38:24 PM UTC    Comments 

Emirates Airline has launched a new offer in partnership with the Atlantis, a luxury resort and water park recently opened on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah.

Passengers flying Emirates Airline’s First Class or Business Class to or via Dubai over the coming months will receive a complimentary stay in this special hotel and enjoy its incredible world of aquatic wonders. The offer includes unlimited access during their stay at Atlantis to the amazing water playground Aquaventure, featuring thrilling water rides as well as The Lost Chambers, a maze of underground tunnels offering fascinating underwater views.

Passengers flying Emirates Business Class to or via Dubai during the offer period will enjoy a complimentary one-night stay at Atlantis, while eligible Emirates First Class passengers will enjoy not one, but two nights’ complimentary stay.

This unprecedented opportunity is offered to customers on a bed and breakfast basis, based on single or double room occupancy and is valid for new bookings made on qualifying Emirates flights between 4th October and 24th December 2008, excluding 18th November – 23rd November 2008 inclusive. The accommodation must be pre-booked via Emirates and confirmed before arrival in Dubai. Terms and conditions apply.

www.emirates.com

9/28/2008 10:28:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Ibis, the economy hotels brand of the Accor group, has opened its fifth hotel in Thailand with the sixth to open in just a few days.

The 213-room ibis Sathorn (Bangkok) is located in Soi Ngam Duphli, just off Sathorn Road in downtown Bangkok. The 260-rooms Ibis Bophut on the Island of Samui will open on October 1, 2008.

Both the Ibis Sathorn and Ibis Bophut provide all the quality and services of the worldwide ibis standard, including a well-designed en-suite bedroom, fully-equipped with flat screen TV and wireless and broadband internet connection.

To celebrate their openings both hotels are now offering special packages:

Ibis Sathorn: 1,707 Baht (£27.50) nett per night inclusive of breakfast for two until October 31, 2008.

Ibis Bophut: 1,840 Baht (£29.50) nett per night inclusive of breakfast for two, for Standard Room, valid from October 1 to December 20, 2008.

www.accor.com

9/28/2008 10:24:08 AM UTC    Comments 

Star-studded St Moritz is made available to skiers at down to earth prices with specialist operator flexiski.

But if you really want to match the style of top celebrities seen on the Swiss resort’s slopes, like Kate Moss, George Clooney, Hugh Grant and Rupert Everett, flexiski can also offer packages with an A-list price tag.

With a ‘save or splurge’ offer, flexiski is able to book trips to this most chic of winter destinations with a bill that will make your bank manager either smile or wince.

While the rich and famous are partying at the renowned Kings Club, flexiski clients can enjoy a four-night break at the three-star Hotel Hauser from just £380 per person, including breakfast (based on sharing a double room). The hotel is in the centre of St Moritz – home to a host of glamorous events, including the Cartier snow Polo World Cup and the White Turf Racing Festival – and many of the double rooms on the south side overlook the main square.

However, for those with taste for the high life, head for the exclusive Badrutt’s Palace for a no-expense spared five-star treat in March from £1,690 per person, based on two adults sharing a deluxe junior suite and including breakfast. Badrutt’s Palace offers spectacular views of the Alps and St Moritz Lake. A historic symbol of St Moritz, the palace has been a favourite with celebrities and royalty since it opened in 1896.

Eating out in St Moritz can also be a budget experience or you can opt for two-star Michelin restaurants. Among the restaurants offering outstanding cuisine with an appetising price tag is La Marmite. Located at the top of the funicular (Corviglia Bergstation) it’s a great lunch stop with prices from £15 or you can opt for the extensive selection of caviar available with canapés.

The Chesa Chantarella offers an exclusive mountain dining experience, serving excellent Swiss cuisine prepared from ingredients from the Upper Engadine’s top producers. A carriage ride from this characteristic restaurant down to the valley makes a romantic end to an evening. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can take a sleigh ride instead.  

www.flexiski.com

9/28/2008 9:44:45 AM UTC    Comments 

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has announced that it will manage the new Fairmont Battery Wharf located on Boston's vibrant waterfront, adjacent to the city's historic North End.

It is scheduled to open in December 2008 and will become the brand's second hotel in Boston.

The contemporary hotel will feature 150 elegantly appointed guestrooms, including Fairmont Gold, the brand's exclusive lifestyle offering featuring warm and personalized service with amenities such as private reception and a comfortable guest lounge. Guestrooms will be spacious with a large work area, marble baths and all of the technology features consistent with five-diamond standards. The décor will be residential in style and inspired by the property's harbor side location.

Recent international announcements have included Fairmont Hyderabad, India, Fairmont Roco Ki, Dominican Republic, Fairmont Haitang Bay Resort, Sanya, China, Fairmont Marrakech, Morocco, and Fairmont Manila, Philippines.

www.fairmonthotels.com

9/21/2008 4:27:15 PM UTC    Comments 

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is rolling out a new promotion rewarding members of its Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program staying at participating hotels between 01 Oct - 31 Dec.

The ‘SPG You Choose’ promo aims to cater for a “wide variety of travellers - frequent, occasional, business and leisure” - offering four reward types. Members will have the choice of Free Nights, Elite Status, Bonus Starpoints and Gift Cards so they can choose a specific earning option and reward, based on how often they travel and their individual travel needs. The promo is available at more than 890 hotels.

www.spg.com/choose

9/19/2008 8:05:01 AM UTC    Comments 

 A US manufacturer has come up with a disposable remote control cover, saying that hotel room remote controls have been shown to potentially carry high levels of dangerous bacteria. Pineapple Hospitality says its ‘Zaplex’ cover is ideal for those who worry about catching diseases, with the remote “the most direct bridge of contact between guests, especially because it is difficult to clean.”

9/18/2008 7:45:35 AM UTC    Comments 

Couples yearning to leave the grey, wet weather behind and head for some luxury in the sun need not worry about breaking the bank. Sandals Resorts are now offering guests a seventh night free for bookings made from now until 18 November 2008, for travel until 26 December 2008.

The offer is available at Sandals Resorts in Antigua, St Lucia, Jamaica and the Bahamas including Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island and Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort and Private Island is also included in the offer and presents the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the resort’s brand new River Suites, set upon a relaxing lazy river and pool and offering the ultimate in luxury.

Sample price: Sandals Montego Bay from £1,708 saving £749

www.sandals.co.uk

Accommodation
9/17/2008 7:59:03 AM UTC    Comments 

Swala Camp, one of Sanctuary Retreats’ deluxe properties in Tanzania, is being completely rebuilt and renovated to adhere to the luxury lodge operator’s ongoing efforts to set a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.

The rebuild project will be completed in June 2009 and will increase the total number of tents at the camp from nine to 12. Sanctuary Retreats will further its eco-friendly operations at the camp by supporting local community groups to make charcoal briquettes from agricultural biomass waste or the planting of charcoal trees; and by replanting important plant species in protected areas.
 
Swala Camp is situated in an exclusive pocket of Tarangire National Park, which is famous for some of the largest herds of elephant in Africa, as well as over 500 species of birds. The new camp is being designed using stylish African-themed furnishings and will be centred around a large striking Baobab tree. It will continue to benefit from en-suite bathrooms with shower and terraces overlooking a game rich water hole that is regularly frequented by lions, leopards and elephants.
 
Sanctuary Retreats will ensure the camp remains fully operational during the renovation. All building will be completed in a phased manner to avoid inconveniencing guests and the daily work schedule has been designed so that all heavy work takes place during times that guests are usually viewing game out of camp.

www.sanctuary-villas.com

9/14/2008 8:27:15 AM UTC    Comments 

Amaze your staff, clients or friends with a Christmas party they will never forget from paranormal specialists, Haunting Breaks.

Haunting Breaks’ truly unique parties offer many guests once in a lifetime experiences including: a professional ghost hunt, a séance hosted by a medium and the chance to contact the spirits

Each event is held in a stunning haunted venue ranging from magnificent castles and manor houses to country houses and small hotels.

Festive packages start from just £95 per person for an event that comprises: dinner with wine and a full paranormal experience overseen by a professional team and psychic. Evening entertainment can also include a stage hypnotist or past life regression as well as or instead of the full paranormal experience.

www.hauntingbreaks.co.uk

9/14/2008 8:23:02 AM UTC    Comments 

Accor brand, Ibis, has opened its 12^th hotel near Delhi in India. The Ibis Gurgaon is situated in a fast emerging IT and MNC hub and features contemporary European styling, 217 rooms, an all-day dinning restaurant, a bar and meeting room.

www.accor.com

9/8/2008 7:28:26 AM UTC    Comments 

Hilton Hotels Corporation (HHC) has announced the launch of its first property in Russia, with the debut of the 273 room Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya - the first of three different Hilton family hotel brands expected to open in the country this year.

Considered one of the Russian capital's key landmark buildings, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya is one of seven famous 'Stalin' towers that define the Moscow skyline.

Located next to Moscow's Garden Ring and a short walk from the city's main Leningradskaya train station, Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya is within easy access to the city's famous Red Square making it a great option for exploring Moscow's historic landmarks. The hotel is only 30 kilometres from Sheremetyevo International Airport.

"The Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya represents an exciting chapter in our growth story," said Jeff Diskin, senior vice president brand management, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. "We look forward to continued growth in this region and throughout the continent."

www.hiltonworldwide.com

8/29/2008 8:03:04 AM UTC    Comments 

A new business hotel, Crowne Plaza City Centre, has opened in Tel Aviv. Its 13 floors includes 273 rooms high tech rooms, of which 78 are upgraded “Crowne Club” rooms, 18 suites of different sizes and 2 presidential suites.

www.ichotelsgroup.com

8/25/2008 10:09:19 AM UTC    Comments 

The first Asia-Pacific aloft branded property will open in Beijing this September, Starwood Hotels & Resorts have announced. The new aloft Beijing, Haidian will create an affordable accommodation alternative in the

Chinese capital and is the latest in Starwood’s rapidly expanding portfolio in the city.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has also announced the latest move in their Chinese portfolio expansion, Le Méridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort and Spa. The 275-room resort will be the first international five-star resort in Wanning City, and the first Le Meridien brand resort on Hainan island. Opening is scheduled for late September.

www.starwoodhotels.com

8/20/2008 8:08:15 AM UTC    Comments 

Travelodge has opened its first hotel built using an innovative construction method involving shipping containers. The 120-room hotel, in Uxbridge, London, is made from 86 steel containers of two different sizes made and fitted out with fixtures and fittings in Shenzen, China. The placing together of the containers took 20 days.

Paul Harvey, Travelodge’s managing director, international and development, said: “The opening of Europe’s first hotel to be constructed from modified shipping containers shows Travelodge’s commitment to innovation and cost effectiveness. Customers will notice no difference in their room to a traditionally constructed hotel, yet they will benefit from the low prices we charge due to our desire to cut the cost of doing business.”

The company is also building a 307-room Heathrow hotel using the same technique, developed by the UK’s Verbus Systems.

www.travelodge.co.uk

8/19/2008 4:01:54 PM UTC    Comments 

Villa specialist Artemis Travel is hoping travellers will take an extra helping of Turkey this winter.

With four-star resorts on the Aegean Coast of Turkey, the company is promoting the region for winter breaks, with two-bedroom apartments priced at just £125 per week from October to February. And to encourage long stays away from the British weather and soaring fuel bills, the company is offering four weeks for the price of three for any break longer than a month.

With four people sharing an apartment – which can sleep up to six using sofa beds – this means one week’s accommodation costs less than £4.50 per person per night or as low as £3.35 for four people sharing and taking advantage of the four weeks for three offer.

Artemis Travel’s business development director Nigel Harris explained: “We feel that Turkey does not always get the recognition it deserves as a winter destination. Our resorts are fully-operational year-round, offering a great range of facilities on-site. With winter temperatures averaging between 18° and 20° C in winter it really is a welcome alternative to grey British skies.

The resorts are in the Altinkum area of south-west Turkey, easily accessible from airports at Bodrum or Izmir, which in turn are linked by scheduled, low-cost and charter flights from departure points around the UK.

www.artemistravel.co.uk

8/12/2008 2:55:28 AM UTC    Comments 

Hilton Garden Inn, one of the fastest growing brands that is part of the Hilton Family of Hotels, has opened the Hilton Garden Inn Luton North on Butterfield Business Park. The hotel is a short distance from both the Luton town centre and airport as well as a short distance to many businesses and attractions in the area.

The Hilton Garden Inn Luton North features a complimentary 24-hour business centre, Wi-Fi in guestrooms and public areas, a restaurant offering cooked-to-order breakfast, bar with plasma screen television, comfortable living room area, complimentary gym facility and the 24-hour Pavilion Pantry® shop offering a selection of snacks, delicious ready made meals, beverages and sundries.

Guest room features at the hotel include the Garden Sleep System® bed that allows guests to adjust the firmness of the bed, ergonomic Mirra® chair by Herman Miller, oversized work desks, air conditioning, LCD satellite television and a “hospitality centre” featuring a mini refrigerator and kettle.

Hilton has also opened the 255 room Hilton Beijing Wangfujing in Beijing’s commercial and social district.

www.hilton.com

8/10/2008 12:04:48 PM UTC    Comments 

Four Points by Sheraton has opened its first Four Points by Sheraton hotel in North China. The Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Haidian Hotel & Serviced Apartments, follows the successes of other Four Points hotels in cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Changshu, Lhasa and Taipei.

www.starwoodhotels.com

8/10/2008 11:58:14 AM UTC    Comments 

Marriott International has announced the opening of the huge 1,312-room Beijing Marriott Hotel City Wall. The new property becomes Marriott’s largest hotel outside the US. Built on the Ming Dynasty City Wall Relics Park, the hotel is situated in Beijing’s central business district.

www.marriott.com

8/10/2008 11:56:30 AM UTC    Comments 

Anantara has announced its latest resort offering, promising to show a new side of Thailand. The Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa lies on the secluded Changlang Beach in the relatively undeveloped Trang province, south of Krabi. The resort will offer 138 sea-view rooms and suites when it is completed by the end of 2008, including a presidential villa comprising three bedrooms, set around a private pool.

www.anantara.com

8/10/2008 11:54:20 AM UTC    Comments 

When the renowned Calabash Hotel & Villas shut for just over a month on 1st September, construction will begin on Heaven & Earth, a brand new spa facility, which is scheduled to open in October.
 
Treatments will include Swedish massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Reiki and Indian head massage, as well as Facials, Manicures and Pedicures. A yoga pavilion will also be incorporated at the spa, allowing classes to be held overlooking Prickly Bay. Grenada has a multitude of natural products such as nutmeg, coconut and cinnamon oils, many of which will be used in the treatments.

All guests will receive a complimentary head and neck massage voucher when the hotel re-opens in October.

There are a number of operators featuring the Calabash Inn one such is Just Grenada and they are offering return bed and breakfast deals for around £870.00 flying from Gatwick on October and November.

www.calabashhotel.com  www.justgrenada.co.uk

8/5/2008 3:11:40 AM UTC    Comments 

The Marcel at Gramercy in New York City will official re-open on October 1, 2008. Having undergone an extensive structural transformation (including the addition of several new floors) and stylish facelift that has taken the hotel from a three-star to a four-star establishment, The Marcel at Gramercy is currently in its ‘soft opening’ phase. New additions include redesigned guest rooms and public spaces and the renowned Bar Milano restaurant.

www.nychotels.com  

8/2/2008 5:15:32 AM UTC    Comments 

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has opened the newly renovated St. Regis Beijing, following the completion of a comprehensive, seven and a half-month, $27 million renovation and restoration of its 258 guest rooms, 102 luxuriously appointed suites, signature restaurants and public spaces. The St. Regis Beijing also features Danieli’s, one of Beijing’s finest Italian restaurants, a luxurious natural spring water spa, more than 13,114 square feet of meeting and event space and the iconic St. Regis Butler Service.

www.starwoodhotels.com

8/2/2008 5:04:45 AM UTC    Comments 

Luxury Explorer, the online ‘World Atlas of Luxury Travel’ known for its cherry-picked collection of outstanding 5 star hotels and resorts around the world, announces its first collection of privately-owned luxury villas, palazzos and castles - Luxury Explorer’s Villa Collection, Italy.

This collection initially comprises 12 of the finest privately-owned villas in Italy; in Tuscany, besides Lake Como and atop the Amalfi Coast. The Collection will grow gradually as Luxury Explorer discovers other unique properties that meet its exacting standards.

The Collection already includes unique properties, like: Villa Cima a lakeside villa, built in 1848 by Catherine of Brunswick, later Princess of Wales and (for just 3 weeks) Queen of England, in the grounds of world-renown Villa d’Este on Lake Como; to Florentine marvels such as Villa Fiorentina near Sienna; to Torre di Clavel, an iconic 15th century clifftop castle known to anyone who has pondered the view across the pretty port of Positano on the Amalfi Coast.

Peter Matthews, Luxury Explorer’s founder and chairman said, “With an unparalleled reputation for welcoming families and adoring bambinos (I know from first hand experience with our 6, not all perfect, children), Italy has become an ideal destination to holiday 'en-famille', with friends... or even both. In gatherings such as these a private villa can provide the ultimate environment by offering space along with privacy, plus the luxury of a five star service and all the cosseting trimmings.”

Prices range from €7,500 - €50,000 per week.

 www.luxuryexplorer.com/VillasInItaly

6/9/2008 8:11:44 AM UTC    Comments 

Planning a family break this summer - then think about The Gleneagles® Hotel. An £18m redevelopment of the AA Five Red Star resort has recently been completed and it now boasts the addition of a redesigned leisure area for kids and teens, a world-class destination spa and a Mediterranean food market style restaurant. The resort also boasts the Spirit Suites, stunning two-bedroom suite accommodation, ideal for families. There’s definitely something for everyone.

Small children can run amok in the well equipped Playroom with its own sand pit, water area, soft area and a storytelling corner, all supervised of course, so that Mum and Dad can savour some time to themselves. Teenagers have The Zone with interactive TV, Sony PS2’s, pool, tennis and football tables and music lovers can select the soundtrack to their summer on the jukebox whilst chilling on comfy sofas and beanbags.

Little tearaways (yes that includes dad) will be kept happily occupied with the endless array of activities at Gleneagles and the dreaded phrase “mum…. I’m bored”, will be a thing of the past. A wide range of activities is available including archery, horse riding, shooting and falconry and can be arranged with expert personal instructors. Also popular is the junior off road driving in mini Land Rovers and Argo Cats, incredible eight-wheel-drive, tiller-controlled vehicles for use on a challenging purpose-built course.

Budding young Tiger Wood’s can take a swing with junior golf lessons available at The Golf Academy. During the lesson children will receive expert advice from one of the Gleneagles’ Pros, be filmed to assess style, receive their own club (cut to suit their height and swing) and a photograph of them in action. The pitch & putt course, in front of the hotel, is the ideal place to practice. Clubs to suit young golfers from the age of four and balls are available free of charge.

Enjoy the two-night Summer Special at Gleneagles until 30 September 2008. Prices start from £335 per room per night for a Sovereign room based on two adults sharing, including breakfast and use of The Club leisure facilities. Supplements may apply for children sharing a parent’s room. Offers are strictly subject to availability at time of booking.

www.gleneagles.com

6/9/2008 8:04:29 AM UTC    Comments 

Reach new heights with Park Plaza Riverbank London’s special weekend offer. The four-star deluxe hotel is offering a glimpse of the high-life with its exclusive ‘Explore London’s South Bank’ package.

From just £109 per room per night (excluding VAT), guests can enjoy a Superior room for two, Continental breakfast and two tickets to one of the Capital’s premier attractions, the London Eye to enjoy a bird’s eye view of London.

For further stunning views of the capital, enjoy a mouth-watering rooftop dinner on the riverbank at the OXO Tower.

Art aficionados will be in their element at the Southbank Centre, located in the heart of one of Europe’s largest art quarters. Visitors can take in an array of art at the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Hayward Gallery.

For nature-lovers, the London Aquarium, which houses fabulous aquatic life from all over the world, is just a short stroll away from the hotel, along the vibrant South Bank, with its exciting shops and restaurants.

Guests can top off their day with a tantalising meal at Park Plaza Riverbank London’s Chino Latino Brasserie, Bar and Lounge before retreating to the luxurious comfort of their modern stylish guestroom.

Park Plaza Riverbank London is located on the picturesque Albert Embankment. With easy access to some of London’s most famous landmarks, including the Tate Britain, the Houses of Parliament and the vibrant South Bank area, the hotel is the perfect base for a weekend leisure break.

www.parkplazariverbank.com  

6/9/2008 5:01:34 AM UTC    Comments 

Located in Boston’s chic Back Bay, a luxurious, new Mandarin Oriental hotel is preparing to open in October 2008. Situated on Boylston Street, near the elegant shops of Newbury Street, Boston Common and the newly restored South End, Mandarin Oriental, Boston is ideally located for both business and leisure travellers.

Mandarin Oriental, Boston’s 148 guestrooms, including 12 suites, will feature airy, granite bathrooms with separate soaking tubs and showers, as well as the latest in-room entertainment technology, with wireless Internet access. For the utmost indulgence, the stunning Presidential “Dynasty” Suite will offer 2,600-square-feet of the best in luxury.

www.mandarinoriental.com

6/9/2008 4:35:59 AM UTC    Comments 

Since 2001 Parisian perfumer, Blaise Mautin, has worked with Hyatt Hotels and Resorts and has successfully launched fragrances for the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme, Park Hyatt Washington and Park Hyatt Dubai.

Mautin has now created a fresh lemon scent exclusively for the Park Hyatt Zurich. Hotel guests will be able to enjoy Mautin’s latest creation dedicated to the modern Park Hyatt Zurich, where it captures on a fresh and vibrant aroma.

Mautin said, “The composition of the new scent, which will be used for shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, soaps and scented candles, includes bergamot, orange, lemon and grapefruit as top notes, ylang-ylang and Chinese geranium as middle notes, and base notes of thyme and patchouli. The design of the packaging for the latest products also reflects Park Hyatt Zurich, with its straight lines and dynamic urban touch.”

The new scented products are an integral part of the Park Hyatt Zurich and are now available for hotel guests.

What would you like your hotel to smell of?

6/9/2008 4:27:07 AM UTC    Comments 

Millennium & Copthorne’s FGR (Frequent Guest Recognition) Club members can now accumulate FGR points with every qualified stay at any M & C participating hotel. Members can use the points earned, towards complimentary stays, room upgrades, F & B voucher redemptions and more.

Offered in two tiers - FGR Classic and FGR Gold - the FGR Gold member enjoys additional complimentary privileges and benefits including complimentary Broadband access with every stay.

Other FGR Gold benefits and privileges include welcome beverage, express check-in, early check-in and late check-out, best available room upon arrival, upgrades as well as birthday and special occasion celebratory treats.

www.millenniumhotels.com

6/1/2008 4:30:29 PM UTC    Comments 

Spa trends are evolving as quickly as changes in the fashion industry.  In 2005 it was stylish to have LaStone therapy, 2006 was the time for caviar facials and 2007 saw the launch of gold treatments.  This year Orient-Express Hotels has identified a new trend in its spas around the world and declares 2008 ‘The Year of the Poultice’!

The practice of applying poultices to the body dates back to medieval times, where it was used to achieve medical results in curing injuries.  Poultices were made of a moist material like mud, mixed with a healing ingredient such as herbs or oils.  Over the years, they have become more sophisticated, with the herbal mixture enveloped in a muslin bag and steamed, and sometimes combined with ancient therapies and products to create a relaxing and effective spa treatment.

“The poultice massage is incredibly effective due to the synergy of therapeutic techniques administered during a treatment.  Moist penetrating heat, detoxifying bio-available herbs, energising essential oils and Thai Meridian point massage combine to create an intoxicating experience.  The muscles are softened, the breath moves freely, the mind is relaxed and the entire body feels cleansed and rejuvenated,” says Jenny Ferrand, spa director at The Inn at Perry Cabin, USA.

www.orient-express.com

5/26/2008 5:57:08 AM UTC    Comments 

Kempinski has opened a new hotel in China. The Kempinski Hotel Suzhou is set amidst a large estate, which encompasses a 27-hole Jinji Lake International Golf Course and a state guesthouse of five villas. The hotel is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Dushu and Jinji Lake, and is located 150 km from Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport and 90 km from Hongqiao Airport.

The hotel features 381 rooms and 77 suites on 21 storeys, most of them overlooking either the lakes or the golf course. All rooms offer modern amenities and necessities for business travellers; wireless LAN is available throughout the property. The meetings and banqueting facilities include one of the largest grand ballrooms in Suzhou covering 1,850 m2 and catering for up to 1,600 guests, eight meeting rooms starting from 100 m2 in size, and a state-of-the-art business centre.

From 1 June to 31 August 2008, guests can enjoy a deluxe room for single or double occupancy, including breakfast, at a special opening rate of RMB 1288 (£94.00) + 15% per room, per night, subject to availability.

www.kempinski.com

5/26/2008 5:47:43 AM UTC    Comments 

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has just launched their new website. It is precisely tailored to user needs and reflects the upscale image of the international hotel group with Swiss roots. User friendliness, regular updates, information content, clarity of presentation and design were the most important criteria for the re-launch.

The welcome page provides space for special offers and with a new look and feel, the individual hotels present themselves through more and larger images and comprehensive information. The online reservation process is much easier and faster: prospective guests can now book their rooms in just five simple steps. In line with the new website, the Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts newsletter also appears in a new outfit.

“The re-launch of our website is a vital e-marketing measure”, explains Steven Nikolov, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “Our website is becoming increasingly important. www.moevenpick-hotels.com visitor numbers are soaring year after year and it is already our strongest electronic booking channel.”

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

5/26/2008 5:07:50 AM UTC    Comments 

Carlson Hotels Worldwide has launched a “points to go” promotion. From June 1 through August 31, 2008, both current and new goldpoints plus members can earn up to 100,000 bonus points at all Regent Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson and Park Inn, with more than 990 hotels located in 71 countries.

In addition to the standard Gold Points earned with each stay (earnings range from 15 points or 20 points per U.S. Dollar/Euro for stays); guests will receive bonus Gold Points during this promotion as follows:

- Stay five nights, earn 5,000 bonus points
- Stay 10 nights, earn 10,000 bonus points
- Stay 15 nights, earn 25,000 bonus points
- Stay 20 nights, earn 50,000 bonus points
- Stay 25 nights, earn 100,000 bonus points

Rewards examples range from in-room movies, laundry service to four nights in Paris or six nights in Chicago.

Members may also choose to donate points to the World Childhood Foundation or CarbonNeutral.

www.carlson.com

5/26/2008 4:59:31 AM UTC    Comments 

Taking care of guests is something that has always been fundamental to Hyatt. With this in mind they have now taken the next step in customer care by extending it to the health and physical welfare of their guests.

Hyatt has enlisted the help of Brazilian Nutritionist Patricia Teixeira, who has counselled international football stars at clubs in France, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain. She has created an exclusive range of nutrition-based healthy juices and smoothies made exclusively for the luxurious hotel chain, which are now available at the sumptuous Park Hyatt’s in Dubai, Paris and Moscow.

In recent weeks, a survey of 9,000 people emerged to highlight vast variations in attitudes towards food and weight. This survey suggested that the UK is the country most attached to fast food, closely followed by the United States, and 40% of UK citizens felt that this is due to the lack of good, nutritious food that is readily available to them.

Many people are becoming more aware of the food they are eating, but even the people that are trying to eat more healthily still have many bad habits. This can have a menacing affect on both body and mind, causing nutritional imbalance which can lead to headaches and general irritability, and also lead the body’s immune system to breakdown, allowing for a greater likelihood of cold and flu.

Malene Rydahl, Director of Public Relations for Europe, Africa and Middle East at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, says, ‘We are delighted to have Patricia on board. It is important to us that our guests feel as well looked after as possible in all our hotels, and this is a great way to show our dedication to their wellbeing’. This is not just a temporary ‘health fix’ however. Detailed menus have been created, openly sharing all information with guests to encourage guests to continue to keep an eye on their consumption. These menus include the exact ingredients of each smoothie, Patricia’s comments about them, their nutritional value, information on the best time to drink them, and even details of how to make them and what they do to your body.

5/22/2008 4:42:47 AM UTC    Comments 

Park Plaza Riverbank London has a sizzling summer package for those wanting to while away a weekend by the Thames this August Bank Holiday (22-24 August).

With some of London’s most popular attractions and iconic landmarks close by, Park Plaza Riverbank is located on the Albert Embankment, the perfect base for a long weekend break. Culture vultures can take a trip to the Tate Britain across the river from the hotel or marvel at the architecture of the Houses of Parliament and the iconic clock tower, while the London Eye and Aquarium are just a stroll away along the vibrant South Bank with its exciting shops and restaurants.

For guests who prefer a lazier weekend experience, the hotel’s Chino Latino Brasserie, Bar and Lounge is the place to be where you can sip cocktails or dine on Pan-Asian cuisine in an upbeat glamorous surrounding. Guests can enjoy their modern and stylish guest room and make full use of the facilities at Park Plaza Riverbank, including the fitness suite. Prices start at just £89 per room per night (room only, excluding VAT).

www.parkplazariverbank.com

5/21/2008 12:44:22 AM UTC    Comments 

The Terrace at Conrad, Chicago’s premier al fresco dining experience, will reopen this month and is tipped to be the city’s new hot spot. This season, the Terrace at the Conrad Chicago offers guests refreshing spirits from the exclusive ‘Bubble Bar,’ which provides effervescent blended alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including several trendy new bubble teas. Also new at The Terrace this season is Executive Chef Zafar’s StaxX menu: an innovative menu bringing dinner to new heights by stacking multiple meal selections in separate eco-chic bamboo steamers.

The Bubble Bar, a new addition to The Terrace at Conrad’s full bar, includes several varieties of bubble tea, a beverage of Taiwanese origin that is quickly rising to fame in North America, which combines a tea (usually black or green) with a variety of fruit juices, ice, pulp and occasionally milk. In addition to bubble tea, the bar offers several blended mixtures of fresh fruit juices and purees, syrup, shaved ice, spirits (optional), creating a smooth and refreshing cocktail. The distinctive garnishes of all the Bubble Bar drinks are homemade tapioca pearls, which create the necessary “bubbling” effect. The current Bubble Bar menu, which will expand throughout the summer, features selections like mango delight with mango puree, complemented with fresh squeezed citruses and rum; and the sinister framboise with sweet raspberry puree, fresh lime juice and vodka.

www.conradhotels.com.

5/19/2008 7:43:05 AM UTC    Comments 

The W Istanbul has celebrated its grand opening.  The hotel features 134 luxurious guest rooms, including 26 suites, the signature W Living Room experience, Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Spice Market restaurant, and a signature spa.

Located in the Besiktas district of Istanbul, known for its destination restaurants, bars and cafes, the W Istanbul will be in close proximity to the Bosphorus Strait and Nisantasi, the SoHo of Istanbul. The hotel will also be a stone's throw away from the Museum of Painting and Sculpture and a short drive to the Old City, the Blue Mosque and the Istanbul Modern art museum.

www.starwoodhotels.com   

5/18/2008 6:15:08 AM UTC    Comments 

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is re-launching its conference and meetings product, Meetings@. The initiative, first introduced to the market in 2005, has already contributed to a 10% rise year on year in the group’s meeting and event revenue, but in 2008 is being evolved to stay in tune with the changing needs of the meeting planner.

The refreshed Meetings@ will continue to follow the same principals of, attention to detail, fresh and innovative food, and a consistent complete meetings product, throughout the group’s four and five star properties. The re-launch includes additional facilities in meeting rooms, enhanced customer service, and crucially, closer liaison with meeting planners, ensuring Meetings@ remains in sync with their needs.

“Meetings@ was a tremendous success when it was launched and whilst it was proving to be very popular, we were conscious that we couldn’t let it become tired in what is a very competitive market place. This investment has shaken the cobwebs away and enabled us to not only enhance our core product but reinvigorate the passion in our teams,” comments Andrew Watson, Senior Marketing Manager at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts. “Meetings@ is a seal of quality that meeting planners can trust, wherever they book in the UK.”

www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk

5/18/2008 6:10:14 AM UTC    Comments 

Ryanair announced the launch of Ryanairvillas.com, which will give property owners the chance to advertise holiday rentals on Europe’s largest travel site. In partnership with Web Reservations International, Ryanairvillas.com will afford property owners the chance to create and publish their own advertisements, including photos, maps and property descriptions, while providing the necessary online tools to manage booking enquiries.

Ryanair’s Sinead Finn said: “Ryanairvillas.com gives property owners an unrivalled advertising opportunity on Europe’s largest travel website. Property owners now have the chance to promote holiday rentals to Ryanair’s 60 million passengers, while Ryanairvillas’ simple design will enable owners to manage advertising content and booking enquiries at the click of a mouse.

www.ryanair.com

5/18/2008 6:06:04 AM UTC    Comments 

Spend a romantic weekend at the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore and enjoy some 'Fantastic Packages' to spoil yourself with pampering treatments from the luxurious The Oriental Spa. 

The package includes:

• Two nights accommodation for two persons
• Welcome in-room drink
• Complimentary access to Fitness Studio

Day 1 (for two persons):

• Welcome foot ritual
• Aromatherapy body scrub (25 mins)
• Body massage – Rescue / Reviver / Relax / Refresh (55 mins)

Day 2 (for two persons): 

• Yoga session (60 mins)
• Express facial treatment for ladies (25 mins)
• Reviving foot refresher for gentlemen (25 mins)
• Scalp massage (25 mins)

Rates start from around £250++ and the promotion is valid until 31 December 2008.

www.mandarinoriental.com

5/18/2008 6:04:17 AM UTC    Comments 

Enjoy a taste of the Tudor lifestyle featured in “The Other Boleyn Girl” with a break at Bolebroke Castle in Sussex, the hunting lodge where Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn.

This truly memorable break features dinner in Henry VIII’s great hall, overnight accommodation and breakfast. Many ghostly sightings have been reported in the castle including the figure of a headless women thought to be Anne Boleyn. Those who are brave enough can also take part in a castle ghost hunt, dowsing, séances, table tipping and glass divination.

Bolebroke Castle features stunning tapestries depicting scenes from the Tudor period, one of the finest Elizabethan staircases in existence and an exhibition devoted to Henry VIII.

Haunting Breaks is offering a one night stay in this historic building on 1 November from just £140 per person.

www.hauntingbreaks.co.uk

5/18/2008 6:02:03 AM UTC    Comments 

The Conrad Centennial Singapore, a luxury hotel located in the heart of Marina Bay has launched an accommodation package to complement an indulging shopping holiday experience during the Great Singapore Sale (23 May to 20 July 2008), an annual shopping extravaganza offering great discounts and fantastic bargains island wide.

Guests will be able to enjoy a luxurious Classic Room with a selection of complimentary benefits, and at the same time enjoy direct access to some of the city’s most popular shopping malls, including over 1,000 shops in the Suntec City area; Marina Square, a one-stop shopping haven and upscale lifestyle shopping centre, Millenia Walk, located just across the hotel.

The promotion starts from around £115.00++ per night and is also inclusive of buffet breakfast for two persons, daily fruits, a box of gourmet chocolates, 10% off on selected souvenirs at the Gift Shop and two tickets on the Singapore River Cruise (subject to availability).

The offer is valid on weekends, eve of and on public holidays until 20 July 2008.

www.conradhotels.com

5/18/2008 5:49:48 AM UTC    Comments 

As a member of Global Hotel Alliance, Pan Pacific is now awarding 500 miles per qualifying stay at all its participating hotels for members of Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest, Jet Airways JetPrivilege and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.

The three additional airline partnerships will bring Pan Pacific’s total airline frequent flyer partnerships to 13.

“The three new partnerships will enlarge our global travel partnership portfolio so that we can reach out to more travellers, who will be able to experience and enjoy the Pan Pacific’s hospitality and luxurious accommodations and be rewarded at the same time. At the same time, our guests who are members of these frequent flyer programmes are able to earn miles with their preferred airlines, thus giving them another reason to stay at Pan Pacific’s hotels and resorts,” said Kevin Croley, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts.

www.panpacific.com

5/18/2008 5:47:34 AM UTC    Comments 

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has opened its first property on the Indian subcontinent, the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. The hotel’s 33-storey gleaming glass tower has 202 rooms and suites comprise with excellent views of the city skyline, Mahalaxmi Racecourse or the sea through floor to ceiling windows.

The hotel has over 500m2 of indoor meeting and function space, a 24hr Business Centre, concierge services and a fleet of 20 BMW 7-Series limousines. In addition, the top floor “The Club” on the 33rd floor, offers its Members an exclusive selection of meeting and dining venues.

 “It’s a real privilege to be planting the Four Seasons flag in India,” said Armando Kraenzlin, General Manager. “Mumbai is a big opening for the group and the hotel is in an exciting part of town. It sets new standards in the city for luxury and service and is sure to challenge many Western preconceptions of what India has to offer.”

 www.fourseasons.com

5/18/2008 5:44:29 AM UTC    Comments 

From May 23 the former Renaissance London Gatwick Hotel will be known as the Mercure London Gatwick. The 254-room Mercure London Gatwick is well located just half a mile from Gatwick Airport (5 minutes by shuttle bus) and minutes from the M23.

The hotel will undergo a refurbishment programme in the second half of the year, but this will be undertaken without any disruptions to guests.

www.accor.com

5/11/2008 12:14:46 PM UTC    Comments 

Orient Express’s Hotel Cipriani, on the lagoon island of Guidecca in Venice, is 50 years old on 26th May 2008.

To mark the beginning of its golden year, the first five guests to book direct through the hotel’s website on 26th May for a future stay, will pay for their first night at the Euro equivalent of what it would have cost on the opening night in 1958, when a double room started at 8,000 Lire (approx £2.56).

Celebrations of the 50^th anniversary will also extend beyond Venice, when the Orient-Express British Pullman train in the UK will serve a special Cipriani dinner onboard, cooked by the hotel’s chef Renato Piccolotto, on 24^th May 2008. Cipriani Restaurants at other Orient-Express Hotels such as the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, Lapa Palace in Lisbon and Reid’s Palace in Madeira, will offer an anniversary menu to their guests as well.

www.hotelcipriani.com

5/5/2008 12:45:39 PM UTC    Comments 

The Westin New York at Times Square is offering a “Sex and the City” weekend package in honor of the flick, which will be released May 30th.  Scenes from the film -- which finds Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda four years after the hit HBO series as they continue to juggle jobs and relationships while navigating marriage, motherhood and Manhattan real estate -- were shot near the hotel.

Fans of Carrie & Co. will enjoy: One-night accommodation in newly renovated guestrooms with Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed® and Heavenly Bath® Two tickets to the movie at the 13-theater Regal E-Walk Stadium that is interconnected to the hotel Two cosmopolitans (Carrie’s favorite drink) at the hotel’s Bar 10, a second-story hotspot

Starting at $434* per room, per night, the package is valid for weekend arrivals (Thursday through Sunday) May 25 through July 30, 2008.

www.westinny.com.

5/2/2008 5:43:45 PM UTC    Comments 

A honeymoon to the Kempinksi Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Jordan is quite truly the perfect beginning to the enchanting union of marriage. The hotel benefits from being positioned on the stunning shores of the Dead Sea, one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Its spectacular views across to Hebron allows newly-weds to enjoy numerous romantic Arabian nights in the surroundings of Jordan’s most luxurious hotel. 

To ensure guest’s honeymoons are as hassle-free as possible, the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar has concocted two perfect packages so even the most demanding brides and grooms’ needs are met! From the moment the plane touches down in Amman they will be whisked away into a whirlwind of unadulterated luxury!

For just £1,063 per person, honeymooners can enjoy four blissful nights in a luxurious Ishtar Suite. They will be met at the airport by one of the hotel’s drivers, and during their stay they will be treated like royalty, benefiting from exclusive honeymoon amenities and turndown service, including a bottle of Champagne and Lulu bath (with aromatic oils and rose petals), a romantic private dining experience on the shores of the hotel’s own beach, breakfast in bed, and Ishtar farewell gifts so they can remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience for the rest of their lives!

Alternatively, honeymononers can opt for an extra opulent package! Intertwining a fairytale honeymoon with the reality of a wonderful holiday, guests will be given in addition to the previous package: two extra nights in that lavish suite, a delicious five course candlelit dinner in a location on their choice, a 90 minute aromatic massage at the world-famous Anantara spa and a wedding tea!

www.kempinski-deadsea.com

5/2/2008 5:41:31 PM UTC    Comments 

The Rocco Forte Collection launches The Rocco Forte Suite Experience, designed to give guests an unrivalled level of service. Already amongst the biggest and best in Europe, the luxurious suites in The Rocco Forte Collection will now offer a new range of services, including:

• A complimentary packing and unpacking service, whereby a specially-trained member of staff will hang and arrange each item upon arrival and carefully repack upon departure. Also included is complimentary pressing of the garments on arrival
• A state-of-the-art mobile phone for complimentary local use, pre-programmed with the most useful numbers in the area and providing a direct line to reception and the concierge, from wherever you are in the city
• An in-suite check-in
• Complimentary in-suite breakfast every day
• Plus complimentary movies and internet use, as well as many other extras

These unique and complimentary services are designed to allow guests to unwind, relax and simply enjoy the suite, each of which is entirely unique; depending on which hotel you visit, you may find a baby grand piano at your disposal, a private chef or butler to cater to your every whim, or even a state-of-the-art steamroom or sauna to enjoy in the privacy of your suite. So, take your pick and come and enjoy Rocco Forte’s Art of Simple Luxury. Prices for the suites range from 460 Euro (approx £363)
 
www.roccofortecollection.com

5/2/2008 5:40:37 PM UTC    Comments 

Langham Place Eco Resort + Spa, the five-star resort on Koh Lanta, Krabi, has launched its ‘All About Me’ series of packages, providing flexibility for travellers wishing to holiday on the beautiful island of Koh Lanta.

The Buy Me, Place Me, Indulge Me and Surprise Me packages have been created to offer guests special deals that meet their requirements during their stay. Starting at only 6,000 Baht (approx £96) for two people sharing, the special packages offer three nights accommodation, daily international breakfast, a daily fresh fruit basket, complimentary use of the movie house and music rooms, tennis court, fully-equipped gym, water sports equipment, and late check-out at 4 pm.

Located on the Island of Koh Lanta , in Krabi province, Southern Thailand, Langham Place Eco Resort + Spa is a five-star stimulating resort designed to coexist in perfect harmony with awe-inspiring natural landscapes. 

W: http://krabi.langhamplacehotels.com

4/28/2008 8:09:49 AM UTC    Comments 

Forget where you put your car keys? Blank on your brother-in-law’s name?  Train your brain with Westin® Hotels & Resorts.

A new BrainBody Fitness focus connects mental and physical exercise for optimum health and is just another way to help guests feel better when they leave Westin, than when they arrived.

An extension of the successful WestinWORKOUT® program, which already includes WestinWORKOUT gyms and WestinWORKOUT guestrooms, it will introduce the popular game of Sudoku throughout properties in Europe, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Asia Pacific.
 
This follows the brand’s recent announcement of its partnership with Nikoli Company Limited, the leading creator and publisher of puzzle magazines in Japan, to craft unique formats of Sudoku games to help our guests unwind, de-stress and exercise their mind.  Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle invented over 25 years ago.
 
Westin and Nikoli are working in partnership on a series of activities to promote and engage guests with the Sudoku experience. This includes building real life Sudoku Sanctuaries in the centre of key European cities this summer, namely London, Paris, Milan and Madrid.

BrainBody Fitness joins a host of initiatives aimed at personal renewal recently introduced by the brand including a new in-room spa program, Unwindsm evening rituals—mini lessons, tastings and art installments that help guests connect with each other and the culture of their surroundings and customized  WestinWORKOUT guestrooms featuring in-room state-of-the-art, full-body equipment for all levels of performance where guests can elevate their travel and work well-being with a challenging and exhilarating workout.

4/28/2008 8:08:58 AM UTC    Comments 

Conference delegates can now combine business with pleasure.  Hand Picked Hotels is offering delegates the chance to wind down and feel refreshed for the evening ahead with the special Twilight Fix package.

Available at four of the award winning Hand Picked Hotel Spas, Rookery Hall Hotel in Cheshire, Norton House Hotel in Edinburgh, Nutfield Priory Hotel in Surrey and Brandshatch Place Hotel in Kent, the Twilight Fix Package is designed to complement day and 24 hour packages. 

Delegates can arrive at the hotel Spa from 4.30pm and enjoy an unwinding spa experience including a 25 minute mini spa treatment with the choice of five different treatments which includes a back, neck and shoulders massage or a mini manicure and enjoy full use of the spa facilities. The Twilight Fix experience also comes complete with a glass of Champagne, the perfect way to start the evening. 

This Twilight Fix package is available from £39 per person and can be booked between Monday and Thursday 4.30pm - 9pm at Rookery Hall, Norton House, Brandshatch and Nutfield Priory.

www.handpicked.co.uk

4/28/2008 8:08:06 AM UTC    Comments 

The opening of five refurbished bedrooms on the top floor of Midhurst’s famous Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa marks the completion of a nearly £1million upgrading and improvement project at the hotel.

In addition to the top floor traditional double rooms , which all now feature new bathrooms, flat screen televisions ,exposed beams and climate control , the project has included the renovation of the Queen’s Suite, once used by Queen Elizabeth 1. The bedroom, bathroom and sitting room of the famous suite now measure 60 m2 but when the adjoining Edward VII entertaining room is added, the total area measures an impressive 102m2 making it one of the biggest single bedroom suites in the country.

The completion of the improvement project confirms the Spread Eagle’s position as one of the most charming and relaxing hotels in Sussex. To mark the completion, the hotel is making a special Spring Offer of dinner, bed and breakfast for£82.50 per person. The offer runs until the end of May and is available on Sunday to Thursday nights inclusive.

www.hshotels.co.uk.

4/28/2008 8:07:19 AM UTC    Comments 

As part of its £120m ‘Nip and Tuck” refurbishment programme, Marriott Hotels is introducing an exciting and extensive range of new dining and restaurant concepts in a major upgrade of its food and beverage offering. Each new concept is specifically designed to meet the needs and requirements of particular hotel and guest profiles.

New restaurants vary in design and food offering, though all reflect a move toward natural, healthy and locally-sourced ingredients as well as an ambience of casual relaxation.

Already in operation at the Heathrow/Windsor Marriott Hotel and London Marriott Hotel Regent’s Park, Brasserie Centrale is designed to give the look and feel of a contemporary French Mediterranean style of brasserie.  Created to provide classical and consistent food which everyone enjoys, Brasserie Centrale serves food in a rejuvenating and refreshing atmosphere.

Five UK Marriott hotels will also gain their own bespoke restaurants. The Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel will feature the Highcliff Grill, a restaurant offering grilled seafood to reflect its location overlooking the bay, whilst the Marriott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club will offer its guests dishes made with locally sourced ingredients at its 5ive restaurant, named after the five human senses.

The Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel will feature Dahlila, a new restaurant that provides its guests with all the excitement and drama of cooking via an open show kitchen and an emphasis on natural products. Milgate’s will be at the Marriott Tudor Park Hotel and Country Club whilst cLevel, featuring a strong emphasis on seafood, opens at the Portsmouth Marriott Hotel.

Whilst some of the new restaurants are already completed and in operation, roll-out will continue across Marriott Hotels’ portfolio until the end of this year.

www.marriott.co.uk

4/28/2008 8:06:10 AM UTC    Comments 

Hand Picked Hotels, the award winning collection of country house hotels, is offering the ultimate girly sleepover at four of its luxury UK properties. Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa in Cheshire, Norton House Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh, Nutfield Priory Hotel & Spa in Surrey and Brandshatch Hotel & Spa in Kent are introducing a special ‘girls’ night in’ sleepover package complete with spa treatments and entertainment for all those special occasions. 

For the ultimate hen night, birthday celebration or just an excuse to get together with the girls, Hand Picked Hotels’ exquisite country homes will create a pampering and fun evening to remember.

Guests can arrive at ease at the hotel from 3pm and check into their rooms before visiting the hotel spa to enjoy the Twilight Spa experience. This includes a glass of champagne, mini facial, file and polish of either fingers or toes and a cosmetic make over. 

As well as a pampering session, the girls can enjoy full use of the spa facilities during their stay.  Later that evening, return to your bedroom and enjoy a selection of pre-ordered room service supper and drinks accompanied by DVD’s and popcorn/sweets End your sleepover with a traditional full English breakfast the next morning before checking out.

The sleepover package is priced from £195 per person and includes use of spa facilities, mini facial, choice of file and polish of fingers or toes, cosmetic make over, use of DVD library, two course room service menu, popcorn/sweets, glass of champagne, traditional breakfast and accommodation based upon two sharing a twin or double room.

www.handpicked.co.uk 

4/25/2008 4:10:30 AM UTC    Comments 

You might know that the Emirates Palace was and still is the most expensive hotel ever built; however, here are a few more interesting facts about Abu Dhabi’s iconic landmark…

1. Emirates Palace has a luxury car fleet of 23 cars including: 2 Maybachs 2 Rolls Royces, 15 BMWs, 
2. In the external architecture of the hotel there are over 114 impressive domes that rise up to 60m in the air and glisten in the sun, resembling pure gold.
3. 5kg of 24 carat edible gold is used every month on decorating Palace pastries and chocolates. This includes Delice du Palace, and 400 slices of this famous chocolate cake are consumed on average every day.
4. The most expensive thing that you can purchase at the Emirates Palace Hotel is "Robert Wan Tahiti Pearls" which are not available in this country. They are exclusive.
5. Emirates Palace boasts 1,002 Swarovski crystal chandeliers and 20,000 roses are used everyday to lavishly decorate the hotel.
6. There is a particularly valuable Cognac at the Havana Bar. It is called Hardy Perfection Air, it is over 140 years old, 100% French Colombard grape and only 300 bottles have ever been produced. One bottle costs £23,140 and one 4cl shot would put the buyer £1,321 out of pocket!
7. Sayad is the first restaurant in Abu Dhabi to introduce ‘Pacific Rim’ cuisine. This is a combination of food inspired by the techniques and flavours of the countries that make up Asia, and the other countries that border the Pacific Ocean.
8. "Gateway to Arabia" is the most popular spa treatment at the Anantara spa within Emirates Palace. It is an indulgent celebration of the Moroccan hammam, and costs around £175, lasting 3 hours and 15 minutes.
9. 35,000 square metres of 13 different types of marble have been used in building the hotel from all over the world.
10. The hotel treats guests to a vast array of little luxuries such as ‘bath caviar’ and Prada beauty products in all suites.

www.emiratespalace.com
  

4/23/2008 8:24:54 AM UTC    Comments 

Britons would rather be sunning themselves on the warm pink sands of Bermuda than anywhere else on earth on their dream holiday. The paradise island came out top in a poll carried out by Ciao Surveys. It found 23 per cent of respondents named lying on a beach in Bermuda as their idea of the perfect holiday of a lifetime, beating off competition from Thailand, Rio, and the Greek islands.

Shopping in New York was also a top contender and with a flight time of less than two hours from Bermuda to the hustle and bustle of the ‘Big Apple’, the island is the perfect twin-centre beach destination after a busy weekend pounding the pavements and bagging some bargains. 

Bermuda’s relaxed ambience is only a six and a half hour flight from the UK. Sand, sea and shopping! What more could any holidaymaker ever want. 

4/23/2008 8:22:25 AM UTC    Comments 

Britons would rather be sunning themselves on the warm pink sands of Bermuda than anywhere else on earth on their dream holiday. The paradise island came out top in a poll carried out by Ciao Surveys. It found 23 per cent of respondents named lying on a beach in Bermuda as their idea of the perfect holiday of a lifetime, beating off competition from Thailand, Rio, and the Greek islands.

Shopping in New York was also a top contender and with a flight time of less than two hours from Bermuda to the hustle and bustle of the ‘Big Apple’, the island is the perfect twin-centre beach destination after a busy weekend pounding the pavements and bagging some bargains. 

Bermuda’s relaxed ambience is only a six and a half hour flight from the UK. Sand, sea and shopping! What more could any holidaymaker ever want. 

4/23/2008 8:20:39 AM UTC    Comments 

Effective immediately, Sandals Resorts International (SRI), parent company of Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts and the Royal Plantation Collection, has introduced a new, value-oriented brand – Grand Pineapple Beach.

According to Adam Stewart, chief executive officer of SRI, Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts will offer a quality all-inclusive resort experience, a great beachfront location and tremendous value.  Two resorts, Grand Pineapple Beach Resort in Antigua and Negril Gardens in Jamaica, will be re-flagged to become Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua and Grand Pineapple Beach Negril, respectively.  Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts will welcome singles, couples, families and groups.  All-inclusive rates include accommodation; all meals and snacks; unlimited premium-brand beverages; non-motorized watersports and nightly entertainment.

“Our intention was to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests to affordably enjoy the best beaches in the Caribbean,” Stewart said. “It’s a slice of paradise regardless of budget.

“This concept has been in the works for the better part of two years.  We were careful and deliberate in creating the Grand Pineapple Beach experience – which above all is about quality.  Value may be the first reason customers book Grand Pineapple Beach, but they will come back for the great food, the sincere and warm welcome that the pineapple symbol has long represented and the outstanding experience that starts with a great beach.” 

www.sandals.co.uk

4/20/2008 7:05:07 AM UTC    Comments 

Sanctuary Villas & Apartments is offering special golfing packages to guests booking an upmarket villas in the Italian region of Umbria.

The package includes a complimentary three-day course pass to the recently re-opened Antognolla Golf Club for up to two guests, plus complimentary hire of one golf cart for three days.

These extras are offered with all bookings made at Sanctuary’s villa Il Fagiano, which sleeps up to eight, before the end of May 2008 for travel during mid- and low-season. This covers stays completed before 28th June 2008 and beginning after 29th August 2008.

For non-golfing guests, or golfers on their days off, the wider region offers plenty to keep guests occupied. The ancient heart of Perugia, known for its chocolate; Assisi with its awesome cathedrals; and Lake Trasimeno, a vast lake with water sports beach, are all within easy reach of the villa.

Low-season rentals at Il Fagiano start from £3,055 per week without flights.

www.sanctuary-villas.com

4/20/2008 6:52:24 AM UTC    Comments 

Marriott has opened a Courtyard property in Hong Kong. The 245 room hotel is on Hong Kong Island close to Macau Ferry Pier.

Also in Hong Kong Accor have opened the 389 room Novotel Nathan Road.

Anantara will open their 59 suite resort at Seminyak in Bali on April 26.

In Singapore the Grand Copthorne Waterfont Hotel is to start offering 24 one and two bedroom apartments for long stay guests.

The St. Regis Singapore has opened. It is their 13^th property worldwide and the third in Asia after Beijing and Shanghai.

The 467 room Swissôtel Grand in Shanghai, aimed at both business and leisure travellers, has opened in Shanghai's Jing'An district, just a few minutes' walk from Nanjing West Road with its many elegant shops and attractions.

4/20/2008 6:39:42 AM UTC    Comments 

“Define Your Lifestyle” will become the mantra among a new generation of affluent travelers if Ragosta Hotels Collection has its way when it launches the collection’s newest boutique resort, La Plage Resort.  La Plage Resort heralds the arrival of the first new luxury boutique resort complex in Taormina, Sicily.  It is expected to open for business early June 2008.
 
Situated in Taormina Isola Bella, a small island near Taormina, Sicily also known as “The Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” La Plage Resort will open as a five-star property, featuring 62 guestrooms and suites, including sea view villas, deluxe rooms and a Presidential suite.  The island is a nature reserve and protected environment for local fauna and flora. Isola Bella for many years has been a landmark of UNESCO and is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the region.

The resort will also feature Ragosta Hotels Collection’s signature spa line, Expure Spa, which combines indigenous essences and plant extracts in its therapies and treatments, and is exclusive to the Ragosta Hotels Collection.  Fitness facilities along with water sports and family programs will be offered as well.

www.ragostahotels.com

4/18/2008 6:10:15 AM UTC    Comments 

The ‘Oberoi Exotic Vacations’ offer presents the ideal opportunity to enjoy a luxurious weekend after a busy week in India.  Discover the splendours of a magnificent civilization with stay at some of the best hotels in the world and avail of exceptional value.  What is more, experienced Oberoi staff is at hand to assist with all arrangements pertaining to travel through India.

Marvel at the Taj Mahal, located at a few hundred yards from The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra.  Stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas, rated the best hotel in the world, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or explore the fabled and romantic city of Udaipur.  Plan a sojourn to Jaipur and stay at The Oberoi Rajvilas that evokes princely Rajasthan with luxury villas and royal tents in a fort-like setting.  Combine exhilarating tiger safari with the luxury of elegantly appointed tents at The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore, rated the third best hotel in the world.

Priced at £488* for a two-night stay, the ‘Oberoi Exotic Vacations’ offer includes accommodation for one person in a Premier Room, breakfast and dinner daily and complimentary return transfers from the nearest airport or railway station. Rates for double occupancy are also available. Valid from 1st May through 31st July, 2008

www.oberoihotels.com

4/18/2008 6:08:21 AM UTC    Comments 

Thursday 17th April saw the beginning of a new era at Hilton Portsmouth, over the last 12 months more than £1.5 million has been invested, which has seen the entire hotel and conference venue refurbished – setting a new standard for accommodation and events in Portsmouth. The hotel boasts a new restaurant, bar and lounge as well as 119 guestrooms with plasma screen TVs.  The existing meetings and function suites have been restyled and are now fully air-conditioned.

Simon Vincent, President of Hilton UK and Ireland said: “Hilton is at one of the most exciting times in its history as the Hilton Family of Hotels enters the UK market*. These new brands offer a brand for every occasion and an opportunity to fuel our rapid international development plans. “We aim to double the size of our UK and Ireland estate from 75 to 150 over the next five to ten years, and along with opening newly branded hotels, investment in the core brand Hilton is integral to our success. Portsmouth is an excellent example.”

4/18/2008 6:07:18 AM UTC    Comments 

Forget where you put your car keys? Blank on your brother-in-law’s name?  Train your brain with The Westin New York at Times Square’s newest wellness initiative: BrainBody Fitness, a program connecting mental and physical fitness for optimum health and just another way Westin is helping guests feel better upon checkout than when they arrived.  BrainBody Fitness—an extension of the successful WestinWORKOUT program, which already includes WestinWORKOUT guestrooms—is a series of original exercises that will be distributed at each Westin throughout North America and provide guests with simple and effective ways to sharpen their thinking and calm their minds and bodies for better health.  Westin will place expert-recommended mind and body stretches in a variety of strategic hotel touch points, including the front desk, guestroom showers, public spaces and WestinWORKOUT fitness centers.  Guests will have the chance to cross-train their brains in the shower with brain-teaser shower clings or get a mental workout poolside with signature puzzle pads and brain stretches. 

Beginning this month, The Westin New York at Times Square will introduce new key-card packets that explain the benefits of BrainBody Fitness and are stocked with a variety of brain workouts and body stretches to awaken, refresh or relax, depending on the time of day. The morning BrainBody card, for example, urges guests to stretch their bodies and minds with custom exercises that can easily be done in a hotel room; the afternoon workout might recommend a recharging meditation and simple stretch; at the end of the day, the experts suggest calming exercises.

Rates range from $349.00 to $489.00 mid-week and weekends, based upon availability, subject to change and exclusive of breakfast, taxes and gratuities. 

www.westinny.com.

4/16/2008 4:49:01 PM UTC    Comments 

2008 is the 10 year anniversary of Hotel Schlössle, Tallinn and to celebrate this milestone occasion the hotel is offering an exclusive anniversary package running throughout the year. Guests can stay in Estonia’s award winning Schlössle Suite and enjoy a specially created evening in the privacy of their own suite.

Opened in April 1998 as the first five star hotel in Estonia, Hotel Schlössle combines charm and elegance. Located on a narrow street within a 15th century Merchant’s House, original features have been flawlessly preserved. Antique furniture, giant beams and cosy rooms teamed with impeccable service and attention to detail, provide a unique and luxurious place to stay.

“The first ten years have been successful and brought many challenges and great joy! We hope to continue this interesting journey for many years to come!” says the general manager of Schlössle Hotel, Mrs Evelin Bötker who is also herself celebrating her 10th year within the group.

Just a two hour flight from London, Tallinn makes for an ideal weekend break. From the Schlössle Hotel, the Old Town can easily be seen in a single day; viewing the rich cultural surroundings including historic churches, concert halls and enchanting architecture.

Anniversary Package for two people includes:

One night in the exclusive Schlössle Suite
Roses and Champagne in your room
Guided Walking Tour in Tallinn Old Town
Private 6-course Menu Candlelight Dinner in the suite
Private concert in your suite during dinner
Two massages and use of the Estonian Sauna
Private airport transfers
Price:  1,158EUR / 18,085 EEK, Valid from January 01 – December 31, 2008

Bookings: www.schlossle-hotels.com

4/15/2008 10:20:14 AM UTC    Comments 

Make the most of the two long weekends in May with a luxury break at one of the 11 Rocco Forte hotels. Each one is centrally located in a key European city and offers an ideal base from which to explore local events and festivals - here are just a few to choose from:

Rocco Forte’s Le Richemond, Geneva – Open Doors at Genevese Cellars, 24th May: On 24th May, over 100 wine cellars within the city of Geneva and in villages in the surrounding countryside will open to the public. As well as wine tasting and buying, there will be food and music making it a fun and lively way of sampling the local produce and visiting the city. Stay at Rocco Forte’s Le Richemond and you’ll be ideally situated in the heart of Geneva. Prices start from 450 CHF (approx £225) per room.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo, Brussels – Brussels Jazz Marathon, 25th-27th May: Over 400 musicians will be playing an incredible 125 concerts during Brussels’ annual Jazz Marathon (25th-27th May). The performances will take place in over 50 venues across the city – including outdoor gigs in the beautiful Grand Place, and there will be blues and latin music as well as traditional jazz. Stay at Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo, set just behind the Grand Place, and you’ll be in walking distance of most of the concerts. Prices start from 259 Euro (approx £207) per room, per night.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Savoy, Florence - China: At the court of The Emperors, throughout May: Florence is hosting a spectacular new exhibition of China’s Golden Age, open over both bank holiday weekends. China: At the court of The Emperors brings together masterpieces from the more traditional Han style to the elegance of the Tang dynasty (25 - 907) and will be on display at the Palazzo Strozzi. Rocco Forte’s Hotel Savoy is including entrance to this exclusive event so guests won’t miss the chance to see exquisite artefacts, many of which have never been seen before in the West, including splendid frescoes and stone sculptures, spectacular terracotta statues and precious jewels and the rich lacquers of the Tang Dynasty. The package also includes the official catalogue in-room upon arrival. Prices start from 476 Euros (approx £340) per room per night, including breakfast and a room upgrade subject to availability. There is a minimum length of stay of three nights.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg – enjoy a classic Russian experience: Extend your bank holiday weekend until the 27th May for a four-night break in St Petersburg and you’ll be part of the city’s 305th birthday celebrations, complete with fireworks and free concerts. The weekend also marks the start of the White Nights festival. For a classic Russian experience, stay at the Rocco Forte’s Hotel Astoria, which offers not only an exquisite selection of vodka and the best Russian caviar, but a package that takes in the best of the city. Prices start from RUB 79 710  (approx £1,720) per person and includes a two-hour boat tour, tickets for the ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre and a three-hour private city tour including the Peter and Paul Fortress. The price is based on two sharing and includes breakfast and return airport transfers.

To book, visit www.roccofortecollection.com

4/15/2008 5:11:06 AM UTC    Comments