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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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     

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