Carlson Hotels to Open Second Radisson Hotel in Islamabad

Carlson Hotels is expanding its presence in South Asia with the targeted opening of its second hotel in Islamabad, the Radisson Hotel Islamabad Capital Park, in April 2008.

The 164-room hotel, to be developed in partnership with Pakistan-based Corotyle International, will be located in the heart of the city around the bustling Sector F-8 Markaz. The other Radisson hotel to be opened by Carlson in 2009 is the 171-room Radisson Hotel Islamabad Civic Centre.

Martin Rinck, president and managing director of Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific, said, "As the administrative and economic centre of Pakistan, Islamabad is becoming a major travel destination in South Asia. We are confident that this new development will lead to exciting growth opportunities for Carlson Hotels in South Asia, adding to the continued expansion of our portfolio in the region. The outstanding locations of both our Radisson hotels in Islamabad, coupled with our world-class services, will ensure their future success."

The Radisson Hotel Islamabad Capital Park will offer world-class facilities and services including a spa, health club, beauty parlour, swimming pool, and a fully equipped business centre.

The hotel will also feature meetings facilities including function rooms for banquets and conference events. A choice of restaurants and bars, as well as recreation and fitness facilities, will also be available.

Strange Cultural Habits in China

What’s considered the norm in China, and any Eastern culture for that matter, may be considered odd to the average Westerner. China is a culture that has spent thousands of years developing largely outside of western influence. Historically, Chinese governments from the emperors in ancient times to the current Communist leadership have put much effort keeping out external influence. The construction of the Great Wall is an obvious example of these attempts. It is only recently that China has opened up to the ideas of western culture, particularly the economic ones.

China’s population is about 20% of the world’s population. At well over 1 billion people, the first observations many will make when first traveling to China are the masses of people wherever you are. Westerners may have to ring in their personal space requirements when visiting here because personal space is scarce.

Foot Binding

Historically, particular Chinese customs could be viewed as oppressive to women. One such custom, foot binding, is dangerous to natural development. Foot binding is related to how the Chinese traditionalists view the ideal image of a woman – one with narrow, pointed feet. These forced foot deformities were thought to be a sign of class, and a symbol of chastity. The feet of young Chinese girls are bound tightly – toes forced under the sole of the foot and, over time, are forced into smaller and smaller sized shoes. Gradually, the foot becomes deformed to where it forms a point. This practice is not dominant in China in the modern day. Public outcry over the practice started to come about towards the end of the 19^th century. Still, today there are over 1 million Chinese women living with feet deformed by the practice.

Feng Shui

Another custom the Chinese largely adapt that may seem obsessive to the Westerner is the habit of arranging objects into numerical categories. However, this practice has caught on with some westerners. The term, feng shui, is based upon the concept of Qi, which is the life energy believed to be present in living and non-living objects. Arrangement under feng shui is based upon an octagon. Each side of the octagon represents an element in life. The eight elements are career, knowledge, family, wealth, fame, marriage, children, and benefactors. It is thought by the Chinese that improper arrangement in any of the categories will result in an adverse effect in that aspect of life.

Another custom of the Chinese has to do with basic identification of the individual. Formal Chinese names appear in reverse to the western eye. The name has two parts, just as western names, but the first name is a family name (surname), and the second name is the given name. The family name always comes first. In western cultures we are addressed by our first names. This is not so in China. A child addressing an adult in China by their first name would expect a reprimand; strangers addressing each other in such a manner would be considered rude at least and probably judged to be an insult. Chinese people are largely identified with their families and are identified as such in public address and casual acquaintances. First names are only used within the immediate family and in relationships that have spent years in development. Chinese people are also identified with their profession. In a business relationship, an acquaintance would be known by their title and family name.

China’s culture is one of the most ancient and most unique. Travelling across this immense country the tourist is definitely going to run into some odd local customs not prevalent in the rest of the country. But isn’t that why we travel in the first place? We are seeking new experiences. Chinese culture is sure to provide them.

How To Take Photos In Beijing, China

This is something you’ll see next year on your way to the Beijing Olympics 2008. Make sure you blend in with the crowd while taking photos. Crouch down, butt out, and its all over bend over.

Environmentally Friendly 5 Star Hotel in Beijing

The world these days is in the grip of a very serious debate; global warming. There is a heightened awareness that humans have a responsibility towards the coming generations and our planet. The need of the time is finding environmentally friendly fuels and energy sources, and taking actions to minimize the damage to the environment from human activities.

A commendable initiative in this regard has been taken in Shanghai where the Atkins group has designed a 400 bed resort in a 100 meter deep quarry. The Songjiang Hotel will be part of a new city that will be home to some 500 thousand people and is being built in Songjiang district near Shanghai, which offers a beautiful natural back drop and attracts a lot of tourists to the area, with emphasis on environmental preservation.

The hotel location is not only unique but will also substantially decrease the energy costs, as the hotel will be safe from the weather conditions. The energy source used in the resort will be geo-thermal.

The hotel’s design has a very strong aquatic theme. The design of the building makes the use of natural light. The plan is to use the site to get the most out of it. Use of the rock face and quarry’s natural waterfalls will add to the beauty of the hotel.

The pro-green theme of the hotel starts right from the top, with a green roof top. Only the top two levels are above the level of the quarry, the rest is below it with the two bottom levels underwater. The hotel will boast a five star ranking with luxury accommodations, restaurants, cafes, sports facilities and conference rooms. The under water levels will not only have guest rooms and a restaurant, but will also feature a beautiful ten foot aquarium, making the under water experience sensational. Swimming pools and water sports on the last level will also be a definite crowd pleaser with extreme sports like bungee jumping and rock climbing a part of the extensive attractions package.

Once the hotel is open to public it will definitely attract not only the environmentalists but has the potential to become an iconic resort for the country.

Swissôtel appoints Aiden McAuley Regional Vice-President Asia Pacific

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has promoted Mr Aiden McAuley from Area General Manager for South Asia and The Pacific, to Regional Vice-President Asia and The Pacific. This is in addition to his role as General Manager of Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore.

In his capacity as Regional Vice-President Asia Pacific, Mr McAuley will be overseeing the group's current properties in Singapore, Thailand and Australia, focusing on the co-ordination and supervision of hotel operations as well as working closely with the respective General Managers in these countries on strategic and financial issues. At corporate level, Mr McAuley will be liaising with relevant corporate departments on matters pertaining to current and future operations whilst developing the appropriate network to support the brands expansion within the region.

Mr McAuley’s career with Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts began in the United Kingdom in 2000 where he was General Manager of Swissôtel The Howard, London. He relocated to Singapore in 2005 where he assumed the position of General Manager of Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore.

After a year in Singapore and in light of the new Swissôtel developments in Asia, Mr McAuley was given an expanded role as Area General Manager for South Asia and The Pacific, in October 2006.

An Irish national, Mr McAuley has worked with private investors and international companies. With over 25 years of experience and an intrinsic knowledge of the hospitality industry, Mr McAuley is well equipped to build on the success of Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore and Swissôtel Hotels in Asia Pacific.

Hyatt to manage Stunning Hotel in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company has confirmed that the exclusive new 200 room, 5 star hotel in Abu Dhabi’s absolutely stunning Capital Gate building, adjacent to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, will be operated by Hyatt International.

The hotel will open in 2009 and will be the first Hyatt operated facility in the UAE capital city. In recognition of its significance and its stature, Hyatt International has named the hotel ‘Hyatt at Capital Centre’. It is expected to be one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nayhan, Chairman of Capital Centre and ADNEC said, “Capital Gate is a unique building which will become famous around the world and as such it was essential that the hotel was operated by an organisation which matched its status, I’m delighted that this operator is Hyatt International. The fact that “Hyatt at Capital Centre”, has been developed specifically for this project indicates an understanding by all involved that this is not an average hotel, in an average building in an average city – this is something unique and very special, which will exceed expectations. It will delight those that visit it and will amaze those who view it from afar. We look forward with anticipation watching this magnificent creation rise from the ground”
Hyatt to manage hotel in the stunning Capital Gate Building in Abu Dhabi - click to enlarge in new window

Gebhard Rainer, Managing Director, Hyatt International (Europe, Africa & Middle East) LLC added, “Hyatt International is under a major expansion strategy in the Middle East. We have been monitoring the incredible developments taking place in Abu Dhabi for some time and, for us, Capital Gate is the right building in the right location at the right time. Capital Centre is one of the Middle East’s most significant developments and I am delighted that Hyatt at Capital Centre is able to play its part in driving this unique project forward.”

Preparatory construction has already begun on Capital Gate. When complete, Capital Gate will be 160 meters and 35 stories tall and, in addition Hyatt at Capital Centre, will provide some of the most exclusive office space in the UAE capital city.

Capital Gate forms a major part of the Capital Centre development, the AED8 billion business and residential micro city being constructed around the newly opened Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

Macau launches Macau Grand Prix Promotion

The Macau Grand Prix this year celebrates 54 years of exciting motor sport action. To help racing fans celebrate, the Mandarin Oriental, Macau is offering a chance to watch the races in luxury, with prime room views of the action and a celebratory bottle of Champagne. The Macau Grand Prix will be held from 16-18 November 2007.

Situated directly in front of the famous Mandarin Oriental Bend, and just a stone’s throw from the race start line, the Mandarin Oriental, Macau is an ideal location for sports fans who want to be at the heart of the action.

Two-night and three-night packages are inclusive of two daily buffet breakfasts and one bottle of Champagne. Single or double occupancy is at the same rate. Check in time for 18 November 2007 will be after 6pm. All rates are subject to 10% service charge and prevailing government tourism tax, and are subject to room availability. Rates for the Macau Grand Prix promotion are as follows:

16 November 2007 starts from HK$2,100 1 night
16 and 17 November 2007 starts from HK$7,700 2-night package
17 and 18 November 2007 starts from HK$6,650 2-night package
18 November 2007 starts from HK$1,050 1 night
16 to 18 November 2007 starts from HK$7,900 3-night package

Hilton Singapore improves Guest Experience with Room Refurbishment

The Hilton Singapore, one of Singapore’s leading business hotels, has refurbished its rooms and suites, as well as the Executive Lounge and key function areas of the Orchard Road landmark. The refurbishment was directed by noted international hospitality designers Bent Severin and Associates, known for their work with leading hotel chains and airlines around the globe.

Hilton Singapore General Manager Alain Mahillon said that the makeover incorporated smart design solutions for the aspects most appreciated by executive guests such as lighting, the inclusion of stylish and ergonomic work spaces, and a technology upgrade that includes the fastest hotel broadband available and large 37” LCD televisions. “The look and feel of the executive rooms has also been transformed with extensive use of Sycamore veneers, blond, silk-textured wallpapers and stunning stitched leather headboards, ensuring a light and welcoming ambience for executive guests from the first moment of their stay,” Mahillon said.

Bent Severin used sophisticated lighting systems through adjustable LED reading lamps and concealed back-lighting that creates a ‘floating effect’ for the LCD television sets and dimmable Artemede light sculptures, “Chimera”, to set the mood after dark.

Exclusive La Source bath and body care amenities by Crabtree & Evelyn are provided in every room. This range, only offered at Hilton hotels across Asia, includes La Source moisturizing soap, shampoo, conditioner, relaxing body wash, body lotion and bath salts.

Additionally, guests at the Hilton Singapore will not have to lose sleep ever again over how to set the alarm clock. With a custom designed Hilton Alarm Clock featuring one of the easiest-to-set alarms ever and a connection cable for MP3 players and other portable music devices, guests can now listen to their own favorite music in the room without having to rely on ear phones or portable speaker systems. Bringing the comforts of the home to the hotel room, guests should be able to sleep more soundly.

Other functional areas of the Hilton have enjoyed a similar transformation, and an entirely new function area has been added. The remodeled Hilton Executive Lounge also picks up the lighter color palette used throughout the rooms and has added space for luxurious furniture and a fully serviced black-granite buffet area ensuring continuous food and beverage service amid the quiet luxury of the lounge.

The new Panorama function room – located on the 24th floor – can accommodate up to 240 guests or, equally, has the flexibility to divide into four smaller rooms. Ivory-colored walls and drapes coupled with a panoramic view of Orchard Road offer a simple yet elegant setting for meetings, conferences and dinner parties.

The Grand Ballroom with a capacity of 600 persons has been re-dressed for the many important occasions that grace its floors, featuring fabric padded walls in warm metallic hues amid faux Alabaster columns and a feature wall. New carpets, elliptically shaped mouth-blown Chili-shaped glass light shades and motorized ripple fold snow coloured velvet drapes complete the picture of sophistication.

“Hilton Singapore has enjoyed a great deal of positive feedback from the changes to date, and we look forward to extending the makeover to the remaining hotel facilities in the year ahead,” Mahillon said.

In-Principle Approval received for F1 Singapore Grand Prix Circuit

The Formula One Singapore Grand Prix street circuit has received in-principle approval by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), via the Singapore Motor Sports Council.

The in-principle approval will now allow construction works to begin. In the coming months, the FIA will conduct a series of inspections on the ongoing progress. The full circuit licence will be granted during the final inspection, which will be in the week of the race itself.

The 5.067km long street circuit, consisting of 14 left hand turns and 10 right hand turns offers a number of overtaking opportunities, challenging corners and gruelling sections that will test the true capabilities of the F1 drivers. Slated to debut on 28 September 2008, the F1 Singapore Grand Prix is the first Formula One street race in Asia and is one of three races in the 2008 F1 calendar to run anticlockwise.

Deputy Chairman of Singapore GP, Mr Colin Syn, said, “After months of poring over the drawing board, we are now one step closer to our dream. However, there is no time to celebrate – it is now full speed ahead for us to get this race on the road.”

The only outstanding decision, one eagerly awaited by all F1 fans, is whether the race will be held at night. Regardless, the circuit has already been billed by many as one of the most dramatic and atmospheric races on the calendar.

Set against the backdrop of downtown Singapore, spectators will get a close-up view of the garden city as the circuit winds past historic landmarks such as City Hall and modern buildings along the Marina Bay, such as the Esplanade.

Mr Lim Neo Chian, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive at the Singapore Tourism Board, who chairs the F1 Working Committee, noted the project’s steady progress. “We are glad that the FIA has given the in-principle approval for the Singapore city circuit. The countdown to our inaugural race has begun. One year from now, F1 enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the excitement of a unique street circuit in the heart of Singapore, which will take world-class drivers and their race machines past Singapore’s skyline, iconic city landmarks and tree-lined boulevards at thrilling speeds.”

In the course of the 61-lap street race, all eyes will be on the fast straights and series of technically challenging turns that will push drivers to their limits. The 500m Pit Straight where the race will start and finish will provide exhilarating racing and see cars approaching 300km per hour at top speed with excellent overtaking opportunities into the left hander at Turn 1.

The cars are likely to reach a maximum speed in excess of 300km per hour along Raffles Boulevard, where there is another prime overtaking opportunity, before braking hard through Turns 7 and 8 before heading towards the historic and cultural landmarks along St Andrew’s Road and Fullerton Road.

Turn 14 will undoubtedly see some of the most exciting action as the cars zip across the 97-year old Anderson Bridge and braking to an expected minimum corner speed of 80km per hour.

To meet the demands of a street race, the Land Transport Authority will manage the modifications that will be made to some existing infrastructure such as road kerbs and traffic islands. The new 1.2km road that forms the start / finish straight will also be constructed alongside the pit building. Work on the pit building has already begun, and is scheduled to be completed by end May 2008.

Corporate hospitality suites and packages will go on sale from late November 2007, with sale of three-day passes to the public due to start in December 2007. Single-day passes will be released for sale just before the Chinese New Year, subject to available inventory.