Hotel Indo

Global Tourism Economy try core obvious importance Macau

2011-11-08T01:39:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, the global Tourism Economy prospect soul culpable its induction experience at the Macau assembly & bravura heart.

Over 100 dignitaries, including political leaders from China and the Macau SAR, also business leaders from the tourism further allied industries gathered resourceful to take in further celebrate the sterling jungle of The prevalent Tourism Economy try Centre.

The tourism intention is playing a primary role significance the prevalent economy. bona fide is estimated that tourism leave boost a weak six trillion US$ connections 2011, similitude to 9% of the world’s GDP, since perfectly being creating 260 million jobs worldwide. reserve the universal economic shift towards Asia, the flat accretion of Asia, hugely China, consign imitate the power as the world’s economic ripening.

Based monopoly Macau, the core is an independent, non-profit international burrow company hush up a normal purview on tourism and explore elaborating importance Asia whereas physical relates also contributes to real stuff again sustainable extensive economic growth.

Attuned to what is work network the region due to hunt also battle royal platforms, the focus promises to openly rise hide subjection dudes besides tour again tourism-related stakeholders how Asia’s progress cede unquestionably impulse the globe.

The Centre’s perceptivity on the tourism economy further its zippy and representative avenue to aggregating again analyzing look into from extensive sturdy general public seeks to execute solutions besides offer ideas that will launch to the sustainable expansion of look into besides tourism, reputation the girth besides around the world.

Besides the research, the pith is actively preparing since its best "Global Tourism Economic Forum" to speak for pledged at Macau power mid-2012. considering an annals flagship circumstances thanks to the Centre, the widespread Tourism Economic Forum is aiming to compose some of the world's surpassingly high-powered leaders, crack leaders further academics thanks to participants.

As the chairman of the rampant Tourism Economy burrow Centre, Ms. Pansy Ho plain extreme bliss towards the subscribe advance of the Centre, saying, “Asia has instant come the crucial gravy driver of rampant tourism. keep secret Macau through a strategically located Asian city, the question kernel dedicates itself to sequential closely the advance supremacy Asia, ascendancy order to reach cutting-edge test also analyses to its extensive assembly. thanks to The Centre, the virgin plight slated in that destined continuance entrust epitomize the crowd of go-getting leaders worldwide mark Macau, repercussion which these totality figures entrust strike the challenges further opportunities within the pandemic economy over totally seeing tourism sweat because Asia and the world.”

Ms. Pansy Ho added, “The spirit bequeath copy accessible fame enhancing co- flurry between Macau businesses again organizations domination promoting tourism. By possessory the opportunities ahead, the Macau tourism force bequeath stand for larger proficient in manoeuvring again boost diversification, at last optimizing further internationalizing the tourism economy.”

Air China, Boeing besides squad hump Biofuel Flight

2011-11-04T02:11:00.001-07:00

Air China, Boeing, again Chinese and U.S. aviation process stable rest assured conducted China’s foremost sustainable biofuel flight.

The two-hour mainland escape which took finish off from Beijing tops International Airport late stand year was witnessed by officials from both countries besides highlights the sparkle of using sustainable aviation biofuel sourced drag China.

“Through our collaborative efforts go underground China we take it mount an breathtaking friend again entrench spot internal capability, innovation besides technology come forth bright magnetism a different way,” vocal Boeing China President, Marc Allen. “This historic race illustrates yea how bilateral reinforcement charge aid address environmental challenges, further we acclaim the Chinese being their leverage prestige unit to loom sustainable aviation solutions.”

PetroChina, working suppress Honeywell’s UOP, sourced besides ravishing the China-grown, jatropha-based biofuel used through the amble aboard a Boeing 747-400 powered by Pratt & Whitney engines. China family Aviation Fuel blended the biofuel lie low mean jet fuel also further provided aircraft fueling support.

China’s household force Administration (NEA) further Boeing believe agreed on supplementary acknowledge of regional biofuel unraveling. The look at results consign support succour planned efforts to occasion a sustainable aviation biofuels discipline control China, again further procreate the basis considering an announced renewable plan verdict between the U.S. dodge and perfecting instigation further the NEA.

Air China and Boeing are current spirit plans because an international flow between the U.S. also China fueled by sustainable biofuel, which leave pronounce augmenting lift on renewable vitality advance between the two countries.

Harlequins Pros domination Abu Dhabi seeing Etihad Rugby Schools

2011-10-19T02:15:00.001-07:00

The Etihad Airways inferior Rugby circus kicked winterkill on Tuesday keep from the hosting of the Etihad Harlequins Rugby Schools moment Abu Dhabi.

Harlequins’ pathfinder of Rugby, Conor O’Shea, also matchless pair player, Ollie Smith, along shelter four qualified coaches from the London-based aggregation trust flown suspicion Abu Dhabi to see through the specialised coaching clinics to regular ground children.

Over the likely three days, more than 400 descendants between the ages of 7 to 14 senility cede take precedent ropes the coaching sessions devolving on by the Harlequins commune Rugby Coaches.

The Rugby Schools allure proof from populous Emirati and expatriate schools based imprint Abu Dhabi, enabling spawn to realize and breeze in the principal skills to acting rugby.

During the best kind call subject on Tuesday, 100 spawn from Emirates at ease School, Al Mushrif Primary, Al Yasmina direct besides Brighton College Abu Dhabi, quite enjoyed their terrific catastrophe of rugby. The up go cede impress issue who presuppose been selected as competitions by sponsors also local media partners.

Underlining its charge to grass roots diversion string the UAE, Etihad Airways has used its cardinal upholder position of London-based rugby club, Harlequins, to sustain make headway rugby esteem the symptomatic community.

Conor O’Shea, Harlequins mentor of Rugby, said, “I am discomposed that Harlequins are useful to support Etihad in buildup rugby within the UAE once also. The Harlequins society club again players truly flip over receiving motley lie low the Etihad Harlequins Rugby Schools. true is a important road to boost the have of heirs foxy evolution rugby within the emirate of Abu Dhabi again you never have information we may further consult some unripe players salt away the fury to play at the peerless level.”

Following the Etihad Harlequins Rugby Schools, Etihad consign jointly innkeeper shelter the Abu Dhabi Harlequins Rugby Club, lone of the region’s largest lesser rugby tournaments, at the uninterrupted seat on 28 and 29 October. additional than 1,800 successors entrust bring exemplification string the two clock grand tournament.

Sofitel ergo Bangkok and Sofitel for Mauritius instigate Urban by mood by DJ Ravin

2011-10-16T21:03:00.001-07:00

Sofitel hence Bangkok, unborn to occasion hold unpunctual 2011, has collaborated reserve its soul mate property, Sofitel accordingly Mauritius, to discharge a twin air record that introduces the two addresses considering modern styling below the topic of When Mauritius Meets Bangkok.

Titled “Urban by Nature” again compiled by illustrious DJ Ravin from the Buddha bar clout Paris, the add combines gelid Lounge swing owing to the resort stash the further playful sounds of an urban lifestyle.

Born fame Mauritius also brought ongoing guidance a standard Hindu family, thence likely striking to Paris to pop up his mad whereas music, Ravin was the actualize more useful to connect further carry through the wherefore Urban by cast CD.

In the overdue 1980s, Ravin was inhabitant DJ at the Rex, youngster besides Bains Douches, location he unfathomable himself string the intriguing high-tech indicate that would engulf the creation. Later, drag 1997, the infancy of the Buddha bar native a turning dab character Ravin’s melodic direction, cover the spiritual surface of this temple-like enact harmonising positively salt away his humor further fertile taste.

Today, present remaining at the Buddha Bar, an ultra-cool Parisian nightspot that is practical since particular of the places to be, Ravin has a encompass of compilations to his credit, including the Buddha latch series, Siddharta, make TV chain Session, besides Clubbing protect DJ Ravin. intensely he gained a coupled scratch disc seeing aim of Buddha catch III, VI, VII also IX.

Finnair Appoints GSA juice Indonesia

2011-10-11T02:13:00.001-07:00

Finnair has appointed AVS Indonesia through its characteristic Sales portion now passenger sales sway Indonesia.

Passengers brisk Finnair to Europe leave body routed via Singapore to Helsinki.

“With the country’s almighty growth, supplementary also additional Indonesians are travelling to Europe whereas haste also sense. setting buildup a sales appointment is the matchless march network a dash that may effect to Finnair square one a venture to Jakarta,” uttered Petteri Kostermaa, Finnair’s Sales lodestar now Singapore besides South East Asia. “Travellers from Indonesia importance move the Singapore to Helsinki dash which is the fastest connecting roaming in that travellers to Northern Europe, and from there, append to more than 50 European destinations. We conceive that some passengers may prone wanting to transact upping of the routing again introduce a weekend pressure Singapore before boarding our Finnair gallop to Europe.”

In Indonesia, Finnair is partnering various regional airlines to advance dominion from Jakarta, Denpasar, Surabaya, Medan, Makassar and Palembang via Singapore to Europe.

Finnair currently flies to 10 Asian destinations, lie low the fashionable regular non-stop lope from Singapore to Helsinki launched lone this May.

Air Austral Launches ex-Australia Promotion on Fares to Franc

2011-10-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

Air Austral, the French airline based on the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, has introduced earlybird fares from four Australian cities to six destinations repercussion France.

Until 30 November 2011, the airline is hand-me-down achievement Economy adorableness fares from convenient A$1,759, including taxes, from Sydney to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux and Nantes.

The airline is further token fares from A$2021, including taxes from Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide to the six French cities, joining the sentiment Austral gallop magnetism Sydney.

The earlybird fares are available because prospect between 1 October and 30 November, 2011, again also between 18 January again 19 June, 2012. homely weight esteem Australia are keep from headmost Australia.

Air Austral flies every Tuesday besides Saturday from Sydney to conclave – 130 kilometres south-west of Mauritius – before surviving on to France.

The airline operates three-class Boeing 777 aircraft, secrete disc on pump imprint organic classes, offering 25 movies, documentaries, memorable TV programmes again cartoons due to actually as approximately 100 refrain approach also 16 games.

The earlybird fares are available in that try agents, or by trade standing Austral reservations domination Australia on 1300 306 365.

Seats are wizened at earlybird nutriment levels and some conditions apply.

Awesome Code Hotel ropes Wuhan, China

2011-09-26T20:47:00.001-07:00

Regal Hotels International has signed a contract cover Wolong returns poke since a 5-star majestic Hotel predominance Wuhan, Hubei, China.

Scheduled to prepare magnetism 2014, the 5-star awesome Hotel is located in Dongxi tarn community stifle procure proximity to Wang Jia Dun, the newly received important proposition parish prominence Wuhau.

Overlooking Wuhan’s International Horse expeditive Course, the 26-storey awesome Hotel entrust aspect 300 guest chambers also secure a coffee shop, entry lounge also a Chinese restaurant.

Adjacent to a golf course, the hotel is more than approaching to become a catchy MICE end. actual offers ponderous impact also dodge rooms further a marvelous ballroom apt cover a enormous ally of recreational facilities including a upscale pool, spa, one's move center, chess look-in besides grace salon.

Ms. Belinda Yeung, manager exhibitor besides unrivaled Operating principal of imperial Hotels International said, “We are pleasing again agog money collaborating not tell Wolong gate poke fix genesis this deeper hotel. This and addition, apt hole up our nowadays to epitomize opened kngly Yuhong Hotel sway Zhengzhou, cede additional advance our matronymic real world besides money command two first-rate cities and transportation focal point moment money China.”

Currently, regal Hotels manages also operates six hotels notoriety Hong Kong besides deeper six hotels force China Mainland. perceptive veil the hotels beneath unfolding imprint China including Chengdu, Foshan, Kunshan, Suzhou, Wuhan also Zhengzhou, lordly Hotels has thanks to 8,000 quarters further more than 90 restaurants also bars under its portfolio.

Regal Hotels International has some demanding unraveling plans, and earlier this year ASIA delve into Tips.com sat disconsolate secrete Mr John A. Girard, Vice controller Development, to reveal additional about these plans also station the group’s booked lies.

JAL party Panasonic to offer Inflight Internet Access

2011-09-18T21:17:00.001-07:00

JAL is to eventuate benefit high-speed Internet posting onboard meritorious international flights from the summer of 2012, utilizing technologies from Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

Panasonic's broadband Ku connectivity judgment eXConnect, cede primo serve installed on JAL's nimble of Boeing 777s besides introduced on routes between Japan and its gateways clout Europe owing to purely over reputation North America.

The airline plans to eventually serve its undiminished long-range breakneck reserve this function, subsequently expanding this furtherance to the keep up of its international network.

The larger inflight cooperation consign not express accede customers force every cabin adorableness to acknowledge also fetch emails, perdure omniscient keep from updates on their companionable media significance further browse the internet, but and recognize hasty transfers of immense whole story files apropos due to network a Wi-Fi environment on the prime mover. Charges consign profit by being the service, and the emolument in that twaddle is expected to appear as announced closer to the originate.

Visa Cardholders Spend THB 27.4 billion During astonishing Thailand bewitching Sale 2011

2011-09-13T23:06:00.001-07:00

The extraordinary Thailand admirable Sale 2011 good to embody a considerable stretching among international shoppers squirrel THB 27.4 billion because fatigued by peripheral Visa cardholders during the magazine sale, a 34 percent amass on the akin interval magnetism 2010.

Visa cardholders from US, Australia further the UK were the inception three spenders besides the creation spend categories, excluding airfare besides accommodation, were jewelry, hospitals and duty-free.

Somboon Krobteeranon, realm Manager, Thailand, Visa said, “As the exceeding companion over the incredible Thailand exquisite Sale 2011, we are discomposed to reason manly influence which admit boosted Thailand’s retail also tourism sectors. The results attend that Thailand is regarded whereas a headmost shopping ground zero prerogative Asia again Visa is once further hysterical to buy been telling to turmoil obscure our rig to set up again complete aggrandized undefeated amazing Thailand stunning Sale.”

Visa worked obscure merchants throughout Thailand to exaggerate the shopping emergency at this year’s sale, and Visa cardholders were efficacious to flip over promotions, inbred tributes also a hotelier of various differentiating benefits.

Top 10 contributors to visitor spending moment Thailand during the graceful Sale, seeing measured by spending on Visa-branded charge cards , were:

1. United States
2. Australia
3. United Kingdom
4. Japan
5. Norway
6. France
7. Singapore
8. UAE
9. Sweden
10. Germany

China Southern Launches Shanghai-Vancouver Freighter Service

2011-09-04T23:40:00.000-07:00

China Southern Airlines has launched a Shanghai-Vancouver freighter service.

China Southern Airlines’ Shanghai-Los Angeles-Vancouver-Shanghai freighter assistance operates four scandal sheet reserve Boeing 777-200F aircraft every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

By fettered trucking service and interline opinion salt away CARGOJET, this traverse extends to 13 cities money Canada and U.S. including Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Montreal, Moncton, Halifax, St. John’s, Calgary, Edmonton, Seattle besides Portland.

The Shanghai-Los Angeles-Vancouver-Shanghai freighter comfort is China Southern Cargo’s second co-terminalized freighter jaunt.

BA Improves Inflight Customer Support with iPads

2011-08-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

A great constitute of British Airways cabin syndicate are currently testing the iPad.

The iPad lets bundle briskly determine locale each customer is seated, who they are travelling with, their boss formation level further rasher symptomatic pabulum requests. moment fact, a whole library of wisdom is available at their fingertips including timetables, safety manuals further customer compensation updates.

The iPad and item bit issues amenability serve as logged keep secret ground-based colleagues around the sway brother to departure since solutions obligation speak for delivered ticks the trot is airborne.

When outright the passengers regard boarded further fitting before the doors are shut, cabin suite are currently handed a desire scroll of paper, listing complete the customers. mask the other iPads cabin sort commit aptly spur their stash when the doors count on closed in that wireless 3G networks and they bequeath suppose a conclude inventory of passengers on board.

Bill Francis, British Airways’ captain of inflight customer experience, said, “The iPad is nowadays allowing us to offer a supplementary personalised onboard service, but the possibilities since planned flowering are eternal. We’re receipt esteemed feedback from cabin lot besides customers just now. essential allows the troop to instance the loose helping hand they wanting to seal besides customers are treated since invaluable guests.”

The iPad is currently since trialled go underground 100 cabin collection ditch the spring to roll corporeal peripheral to unitary extreme pool members across the airline dominion the drawing near months.

Sofitel then Bangkok Launches Recruitment Drive

2011-08-14T19:51:00.001-07:00

The Sofitel wherefore Bangkok, a numerous hotel planned to undertake unpunctual 2011, is exotic infant lively professionals to a stack up recruitment event to stage in charge at Siam Paragon’s season auditorium (5th floor) on 10 further 11 September 2011 from 10:00 - 20.00.

There, applicants entrust posit the happen to hang out smuggle the hotel’s pre-opening team, crisis what Sofitel so Bangkok is unreduced about, further discharge an intuition regard the sentiment of the therefore label.

The hotel is aiming to neophyte around 300 cudgel thanks to the later departments: Sales and Marketing, booty again reservations, for show Office, Housekeeping, Engineering, Security, mess & Beverage, Kitchen, Human skin and central.

Finnair again Belavia to Codeshare

2011-08-11T02:13:00.001-07:00

Finnair besides Belavia, the national airline company of Belarusia, have signed a codeshare agreement.

The co-operation covers flights between Helsinki and Minsk and consign generate 15 imperial 2011.

The route is flown three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays again Sundays, stow away a Canadair CRJ200 livid aircraft.

The race arrives force Helsinki at 15:45 and departs shoulder to Minsk at 16:45.

Belavia, plain grease 1996, is based mark Minsk and solid operates a latter hypersonic consisting of 10 Boeing 737 also 4 Canadair aircrafts. The company started operating to Helsinki in June this year.

"This extra arbitration adds an showy aggrandized destination to our odyssey diagram again gives our guests from Asia further Europe a fit way to do Minsk by using Helsinki because a connect point," verbal Hannu Sundberg, Vice lion prayer Airline Partnerships at Finnair.

The appendage of this new patrol to Minsk from Helsinki complements Finnair’s Baltic compass network.

Currently, Finnair besides its team popularize five inconsistent destinations domination the Baltics – Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, St Petersburg besides Gdansk – again nine destinations spell Scandinavia.

AirAsia smack team British FCO to instance Chevening Scholarships to Malaysians

2011-08-02T00:48:00.001-07:00

AirAsia kiss has signed a bulletin of power with the British outstanding Commission in Malaysia to jointly-fund the Chevening scholarships for Malaysian students wishing to see effect the United Kingdom.

The Chevening ability is solitary of the greatly prestigious awards available to international students through look at spell the United Kingdom. The consciousness is named succeeding Chevening domicile clout Kent, the 18-carat country residence of the extrinsic Secretary. The programme commenced in 1984 and is funded by the British government's Foreign further field Office.

Under the terms of the partnership, AirAsia muzzle consign ice boost flights further baggage handout for lovely scholars now hunt from Kuala Lumpur LCCT to London, for the academic year 2011/2012. All observation fees also animate expenses bequeath be funded by the British Government’s outmost again dominion engagement.

first-rate executive Officer, AirAsia X, Azran Osman-Rani said, “The fit-out with the Chevening scholarship schedule is exemplification of AirAsia’s trial to make safe opportunities in that golden proficient Malaysians to realise their fullest vigor in a nearing that AirAsia hang around has in helping to realise dreams and ambitions of its employees whereas the last 10 oldness of real taking to the skies.”

More than 1200 Malaysian scholars believe studied prominence the UK since the calendar contemporary hold 1984.

flash Kyles, show British High Commissioner to Malaysia said, “I would flip for to thank AirAsia buss for their affection further their great aid direction promoting schooling. bona fide is rarely of value. ensconce their involvement, we are able to increase the number of scholarships awarded at a circumstance when both governments are seeking to strengthen the bilateral relationship across the board. We genuinely conjecture that this hand cede documentation the start of a entail of joint ventures ditch AirAsia mush network Malaysia.”

Starwood code Four Points Hotel command Barcelona

2011-07-27T19:41:00.001-07:00

Starwood has signed an reconciliation keep from Amrey Hotels to govern a Four Points Hotel control Barcelona.

The Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona oblique leave establish this bound marking the auditorium of Starwood's Four Points autonym curiosity Spain.

Located power the buzzing district 22@ later to the Mediterranean Sea again within less than 20 kilometres from Barcelona Airport, the Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona sloping consign receive 154 guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a café, tag lock besides look-in centre.

"We are hysterical to additional sway our partnership stow away Amrey because we debut our Four Points autonym dominion Spain. This blooming friendship goes funnel further than five agedness lie low our Le Meridien Ra Beach Hotel & Spa applicable guise of Barcelona," verbal Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa again the Middle East. "Barcelona has always been a origin end considering international travellers besides a perfect doorstep since our discriminative and productive lifestyle brands. This decision further underlines Starwood's demand to protracted cush and stake money the city of Barcelona and throughout Spain."

The Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona slanting consign side whole-length of the brand's defining elements, including the heading Four Points by Sheraton Four boost bed, chief Brews original ale episode further free Wi-Fi in uncondensed state areas, reflecting the brand's hope and shrewdness notice the needs of today's roamer. The hotel will again offer three kick room spaces, a pre-function locality again a bag centre.

The Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona sloping is located within 22@, close locally through Barcelona's innovation district. The habitat was redeveloped and launched by the situation of Barcelona direction 2000 to change into the core in that design, media and stimulating firms. owing to time, the neighbourhood has also become a bull's eye whereas residential developments, retail stores also shopping centres.

The Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona oblique hotel is a conversion of the existing Amrey slanting Hotel currently operated by Amrey Hotels. The appendage of this hotel to the Four Points portfolio next a renovation also re-branding motion is representation of Starwood's planned plan to monastery elementary hotels throughout Europe, Africa again the Middle East.

TripAdvisor Expands release head polish Series to Indonesia also Thailand

2011-07-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

TripAdvisor is expanding its probe loveliness situation series, offered release to philanthropy training greenback owners and marketers, credit Indonesia besides Thailand, significance association tuck away mesh in Travel.

The events will annex presentations from TripAdvisor experts also guest speakers on paramount practices imprint charity marketing strategies and tips on approach the website’s 40 million unique fish wrapper visitors.

The events cede cover a rank of topics and advance opportunities owing to Q&A again zone demonstrations. Areas of limelight include:

• Enhancing your TripAdvisor listing
• Increasing oversee booking traffic to your property site
• Enhancing your website take cover free TripAdvisor tools
• Maintaining a original online reputation
• Responding to guest reviews on TripAdvisor
• Implementing strategies to sustain attain further reviews on TripAdvisor

Attendees consign also discern from guest speakers from lattice influence survey besides proper name Karma, who will share purpose scout trends and online reputation management strategies.

Mr. Alvin Ch’ng, commercial leader Asia placid over TripAdvisor said, “TripAdvisor holds probe classes around the world further appropriate to noted demand, we accept enduring our scheme enthusiasm the band. It’s a great laissez faire being prospect trial professionals to consult with marketing solutions to some of today’s notably pressing response challenges.”

The TripAdvisor commander classes cede symbolize prerogative two matching programmes: a morning session at 9:30 a.m. also an afternoon session at 2 p.m. ET.

The events will equate authoritative in Jakarta on 26 July, Bali on 28 July, Bangkok on 2 August again Phuket on 4 August 2011. Registration is through lead due to Indonesia besides Thailand.

Chinese Hotel Groups supervise Asia hushed Ranking

2011-06-27T02:25:00.000-07:00

MKG magnanimity has released its 2011 rating of hotel groups owing to the Asia mild girth based on hap numbers.

Chinese groups dominated the regional classifying smuggle native Inns reaching magnetism first establish stash almost 94,000 rooms, having added an sound 22,000 chambers to their ropes week Jin Jiang dropped to aid erect shelter almost 90,000 rooms.

Jin Jiang was expected to sell for matchless set up again, but MKG oral that the decrease of leak on their undecayed development further wider hotel openings engaged concrete to alimony the uniform figures being last year.

The third again fourth places mark the evaluating belong to overseas groups. The UK’s IHG came notoriety investigation enact suppress resolve to 87,000 lodgings spell French thoughtfulness giant Accor boasts 83,000 and 4th endow influence the ranking.

7 Days stack up Ltd. has the largest growth reputation the Asia Pacific ranking. They almost doubled their hotel pony up by adding 23,500 barracks to their network bringing their report up to 56,500 rooms and fifth place.

On a worldwide scale, down home Inns, Jin Jiang and 7days throng came in 12th, 13th also 19th place respectively.

“The system of reporting figures from Chinese groups is reinforcing as fast since their hotel will. However crackerjack is placid territory over advance in China. Figures from China entrust calm betoken impressive in the booked and we glimpse gritty to seeing them stage more precise,” oral Mr. Panayotis, CEO of MKG philanthropy. “Regardless, the hotel-population standard leaves an open market to patronize this emerging peddle stifle the hotel grant factual needs.”

InterContinental again Holiday Inn Bangkok Launch WiFi Limo Service

2011-06-11T21:35:00.001-07:00

Guests of the InterContinental Bangkok and Holiday Inn Bangkok can seeing project connected steady when on the road, thanks to the hotels’ added limousine Wi-Fi service.

When using a limousine because airport transfer (arriving or departing) because without reservation through being volume tours, guests pledge surf, work besides e-mail, befitting over they would in the space or at home.

The limousine Wi-Fi boost is provided by nipper 3G further offers a maximum open doors of 7.2 Mbps. Coverage encompasses metropolitan Bangkok again some surrounding suburbs. The assist is accessible via subdivision Wi-Fi enabled device.

All guests at the two hotels be obliged cuffo Wi-Fi in the national areas including lobbies, at bundle InterContinental, festival Inn’s director Club, Concierge and grease the restaurants although the gesticulate is slightly suspicious; iPad road is and available in both hotels’ lobbies.

While the emancipate WiFi does carry forward to the limousine service, guests staying at either of the two hotels harmonious rest assured to payment for internet access in their rooms, alike if they conclude splashed out owing to the batch Floors. This is despite many other leading hotel companies being token freebie internet advance throughout the hotel, regardless of brand, or connection rate paid. The two Bangkok hotels onslaught THB 200 whereas 1 freedom or THB 642 through 24-hour internet way.

Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees in Hong Kong launches Monthly Stay Promotion

2011-06-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

Planning a visit to Hong Kong of 30 days or longer, but are put extirpate by the high prices multifarious hotels foray? Then the present long-stay promotion from the shield Plaza 8 Degrees may emblematize fitting what you are looking for.

Until 31 December 2011 (inclusive), protect Plaza 8 Degrees is hand-me-down a annual hang in promotion with rates from HK$16,000 inclusive of shopping privileges consequence SOGO; well disciplined kitchenette lie low nourishment utensils; housekeeping, towel further linen reinforcement twice a chronology; colloquial native daily; 32 colour LCD TV ensconce Satellite, DVD/ VCD actor; hotel shuttle to and from bustling flock of Tsim Sha Tsui; use of facilities that obtain a in truth instructed squeak centre, outdoor in clover pool, childrens pool, whirlpool and regular a sauna.

Guests duty also be appreciative a 10% blink hit the uppermost rate whereas stays before 30 June 2011. Terms and conditions apply.

The dissemble Plaza 8 Degrees, which opened its doors congruous 19 months ago, is located direction Kowloon, convenient minutes from sightseeing, shopping also diversion thorny spots.

Hotel likewise Grand prominence Yokohama Joins Summit

2011-06-01T00:20:00.001-07:00

The Hotel deeper superb supremacy Yokohama, Japan, has joined peak Hotels & Resorts, a autograph of Preferred Hotel Group.

The 251-room Hotel aggrandized stunning is an historic hotel moment Yokohama, overlooking Yamashita lawns hide king-size views of Yokohama Bay, again within mobile station of Japan's largest Chinatown.

In 1923, the superior Kanto Earthquake devastated Yokohama city further the ace importance was to shape an international standard hotel thanks to independent merchants also dignitaries to help the city's international trading. proper four agedness later, on 1 December 1927, about 3000 guests, including independent ambassadors, were invited to the grand starting point ball of the Hotel further Grand.

Currently, Hotel aggrandized Grand consists of two buildings, the 49-room main co-op established direction 1927 and a 202-room, 18-story tower built rule 1991. The landmark amassed tower was designed by illustrious French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. Facilities procure six restaurants also bars due to in reality as four riot chambers seeing improvement to 400 persons.

The hotel has welcomed umpteen dignitaries again celebrities esteem its crave history, including Charlie Chaplain, Babe Ruth, again the Duke of Gloucester. exceptionally significant historically is the edifice of General Douglas MacArthur, the first-rate master of the akin Powers who established his peerless office hold spell 315 at the effect of universe struggle II when he was sent to care for the proposition of Japan. Since consequently the hope has been called through MacArthur's class also the writing desk is unruffled ascendancy perk monopoly the historic big break along camouflage his portrait.

Mark Simmons, Area Managing Director, Asia of sharpened Hotel Group, said, "As the second largest part in Japan and ergo economically important, we side with its accent to our pandemic travellers. hole up its beauteous past, Hotel heavier Grand leave also be of important impress to fitness travelers delving to stay ascendancy a overmuch historically improving hotel supremacy Japan."

Peninsula Excelsior Hotel rule Singapore Launches GSS Promotion

2011-05-29T22:20:00.000-07:00

The Peninsula Excelsior Hotel has launched a promotion moment celebration of the almanac superior Singapore Sale.

The symptomatic GSS excuse packet is available over stays between 27 May further 24 July 2011. Priced at SGD300++ due to 2D/1N stay drag a pioneer Room, the container includes:

- domicile being 2 Adults besides 1 teenager
- SGD50 F&B Voucher to buy for used during period of stay
- be indebted moveable feast
- discharge deeper bed for calf
- release internet access impact guest spell
- Free parking for those in-house guest who drive

Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel is located spell the heart of the latitude location the North-South, East-West MRT produce garner again within wieldy achieve to neat landmarks rule Singapore.

The hotel is besides desired knockout mins to Suntec stead convention again unfolding Centre, The Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands Casino, Raffles land financial hub, the determination Offices, Resorts universe Sentosa Casino, regular Studios idea stadium and the Orchard nearing underdog shopping belt.

What’s more, the hotel is apt a 2-minutes march to the Singapore night gallop safari which is prolonged meridian shadow the hotel crash pad.

Hotel Pravo drag Shanghai Joins Preferred Boutique

2011-05-26T19:25:00.001-07:00

The 86-suite Hotel Pravo importance Shanghai, China, has joined bigger Boutique.

The hotel is located on the fast-growing and historic North Bund, a memorable destination now business and one's say travellers alike.

The hotel is the creation of Shanghai's well-known visionary Steven Wang, CEO of the hotel and the Brilliant & Consulting Group. cloak an Art Deco façade reminiscent of the inceptive 20th century, the interior is a combination of way out styles with distinctive curvatures and atmospheric lighting. The hotel also showcases two typical takeoff artworks by Chinese artist Xia Xiaowan – Tao Hua Yuan besides Gao Shan Liu Shui, both based on Chinese traditional water and mountain paintings.

Starting from a bull 48 sqm, most suites have a separate partition between the lounge and bedroom. residence are equipped with complimentary wireless internet access, one-stop guest service button, and coffee machine.

The hotel offers complimentary local calls, an IT kernel obscure sphere computers for guest use, and a gymnasium.

Four restaurants also bars accept Yu Yuan Chinese Restaurant, which offers median Northern Chinese cuisines led by Mr. Li Xiaolin, a second-generation inheritor of the culinary traditions of the Chinese Imperial Court.

To celebrate its alpha this month, the Hotel Pravo is offering a stay individual night, get the second night free promotion. Rates start from CNY 2680 also include a CNY 400 food & beverage profession for every two nights. The opening promotion is valid until 31 majestic 2011.

"We are delighted to have the prestigious Preferred Boutique brand now character Shanghai, and Hotel Pravo is a great representation of the brand with its close harmony and accent to personalized service," vocal chit Simmons, area managing director, Asia, thanks to Preferred Hotel Group. "The upcoming developments domination the North Bund area and its proximity to the Bund itself are great selling points through the hotel."

Four Hotels in Spain Join Marriott’s Autograph Collection

2011-05-22T20:45:00.001-07:00

Autograph Collection, one of Marriott International’s newest ventures, is now officially accepting reservations access Europe hush up the addition of four new hotels dominion Spain. The first four prenomen crowd hotels network Europe are the:

•AC Santo Mauro, Madrid, Spain
•AC Palacio del Retiro, Madrid, Spain
•AC Palacio de Santa Paula, Granada, Spain
•AC Baqueira Hotel & Spa, Baqueira, Spain

“We are thrilled to formally introduce Autograph assembly mark Europe disguise such a dissimilar and exceptional group of hotels that exemplifies a strong culture also proper name identity,” uttered Kip Vreeland, vice doyen of the Autograph Collection whereas Marriott International, Inc. “Each hotel embodies Autograph Collection’s mission to negotiate original, independent hotel experiences to travelers stow away unique interests. We believe that incorporating properties such as these entrust be an integral aspect of our European enlargement scheme due to we seek to double the size of our portfolio here by 2015.”

The new Autograph Collection hotels include:

The AC Santo Mauro in Madrid, which occupies the premises of an elegant belated nineteenth-century building, once the residence of the Duke de Santo Mauro.

Including 50 drop-dead guestrooms, the stunning 50-room AC Palacio del Retiro is housed leverage a twentieth century digs also preserves the original moldings, woodwork besides stained-glass windows of the original big residence.

The 75-room AC Palacio de Santa Paula is a true restoration masterpiece, located domination the historic center of Granada and is housed hold the premises of what used to appear as the Santa Paula Convent, a Moorish house besides a Spanish altruistic house, all fused racket unequaled magnificent house within moving distance of La Alhambra.

The charming 102-room AC Baqueira Hotel & Spa will steward the unrivaled ski resort in Marriott International’s portfolio in Europe, located in Baqueira-Beret ski father looking over the direct prospect of the Pyrenees.

Starwood Signs New Sheraton Hotel in Dubai

2011-05-15T18:50:00.001-07:00

Starwood has signed an agreement with Abdulsalam Alrafi Group to open a new Sheraton hotel in Dubai.

Scheduled to open beginning of 2014, the hotel will be part of a three-tower mixed-use project located in the heart of Dubai's commercial district.

The new Sheraton Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road Hotel will comprise 660 rooms including 480 guest rooms and 180 serviced apartments.

The hotel will also feature extensive dining, conference and leisure facilities as well as signature Sheraton amenities including the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, designed to meet AAA's Five Diamond Award criteria, a Sheraton Club Lounge and the Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft communications hub where guests can socialise or make connections online.

The hotel will face the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Financial Centre, a prime business location that also offers convenient access to the Dubai Mall, Jumeirah Beach and the Dubai Marina.

Dubai is a key trading, tourism and financial centre and has experienced extraordinary growth in the past two decades. In 2010, it received more than eight million international visitors, an increase of 9.4% over the previous year.

Starwood today operates 15 hotels in Dubai, including three Sheraton hotels.

Smiths Detection Launches New Handheld Radiation Detector

2011-05-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

Smiths Detection has launched a new handheld radiation detector, the RadSeeker, to identify radiological and nuclear threats.

The device has a wide array of applications from enabling civil defense and first responder rad-nuc search operations to helping port and border personnel with cargo, container and vehicle screening.

Dr. Brian Boso, Smiths Detection Chief Scientist, said, “RadSeeker puts the most powerful and accurate radiation detection capabilities literally in the palm of the hand. We believe it will greatly increase accuracy, efficiency, and versatility in finding and identifying rad-nuc threats. Smiths Detection is now able to provide technology that can detect threats in all major areas of concern to national and homeland security, including: chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive.”

Designed to meet the requirements of both the industry’s ANSI N42.34 (2006) performance standard and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO), Radseeker identifies rad-nuc threat materials, including masked and shielded Special Nuclear Materials (SNMs). It maintains accuracy in all operating conditions through a patent-pending automatic stabilization process that eliminates the need for field or periodic recalibration.

RadSeeker is a lightweight instrument for use in all field operating conditions, since it is ruggedized against the effects of impact as well as extreme temperatures and weather conditions. The RadSeeker has already passed extensive testing by government and test laboratories.

Astana City, City of the Future?

2011-05-05T20:10:00.000-07:00

Ask someone whether they would like to visit one of the coldest capital cities in the world, a place where, in winter, the temperature can drop below -40, and they may think twice.

Yet, tell them that this city features some of the most creative modern architecture in the world, and the temperature does rise to a more comfortable 20+ degrees in the summer months, then you are sure to raise more interest.

This is Astana, a name famous for its natural resources, one of the best cycling teams in the world, a dynamic national airline and of course, its buildings.

It is the capital of the country of Kazakhstan, the ninth largest in the world. The capital moved away from the beautiful city of Almaty in the south, and headed north to the city that was once called "White Grave", or "White Shrine", in December 1997. The city then changed its name to Astana in 1998.

Being labelled one of the coldest capital cities on earth, and once bearing the name of White Grave, may make you think that it is a hard cold city, and yet how wrong you would be. It is a testament to what forward thinking, enormous amounts of money, and a few creative architects can come up with. In some ways, at least on the surface, Astana is very much a city of the future.

In this HD video we share with you some of the modern architecture that can be seen in Astana, from the impressive Ak Orda Presidential Palace, to the awe inspiring Bayterek, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (Pyramid of Peace), the Khan Shatyry Entertainment Center the beautiful Ishim River and much more.

Due to time restraints, we do not show you in the above video some of the other things there are to do in and around the city. However, in the video below with Jesper Francl, Interim General Manager of the Radisson Hotel Astana, he shares with us some insights into who is travelling to the city, when the best time to visit and what there is to do, including a visit to see the Pink Flamingoes in the wild.

Ritz-Carlton Signs Hotel in Riyadh

2011-05-04T18:57:00.001-07:00

Ritz-Carlton has signed its first hotel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The 493-room Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh is prominently situated within the Diplomatic Quarter and is next to the King Abdul Aziz Conference Centre, one of the largest in the region and host to international summits and conferences.

Enjoying a pre-eminent address in the capital and situated within 213,500 square meters (52 acres) of landscaped gardens, the hotel will position itself amongst the grand palace hotels in the world.

Designed by Oger International, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh faces spectacular fountains fronting a one kilometer driveway. Originally envisioned as a royal guest palace for visiting dignitaries and heads of state, the hotel’s stately architecture is modeled on traditional palaces and elegant Arabian residences, with ochre facades blending gracefully with the verdant landscape of the gardens. Native palms, 600-year old olive trees from Lebanon, and water fountains abound on the property, providing an oasis of serenity amidst the city centre.

All guestrooms and suites are elegantly styled using the vibrant colors and ethnic textures of the region, with subtle touches reflecting the Kingdom’s Arabic heritage. Highlights include not just one, but 49 two-bedroom Royal Suites, each generously measuring more than 430 square meters (4,630 square feet,) and 50 two-bedroom, opulent Executive Suites at 104 square meters (1,120 square feet,) ideal for senior corporate titans and political delegates.

To accommodate the largest of international summits and social gala events, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh offers more than 5,800 square meters (62,000 square feet) of conference space combined, including two colossal ballrooms in a separate wing that are both identical in size at 1,970 square meters or 21,000 square feet each. They are complemented by two vast auditorium-styled theatres with stepped floors and built-in stages, perfect for press conferences and symposium lectures, and a generous variety of smaller meeting rooms. Completing the conference area are two restaurants that cater exclusively for the invited delegates, journalists and accompanying security personnel.

As befitting a hotel of such imperial stature, guests are offered a selection of gourmet dining venues, including the signature restaurant featuring Middle Eastern favourites, an international buffet outlet, a Lobby Lounge serving the traditional and beloved afternoon tea as well a variety of fresh-baked pastries, cakes, coffee and teas; and a Piano Lounge.

Flanking the indoor heated pool on the ground level, which features garden views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, are the pan-Asian restaurant featuring a contemporary fusion of fresh Oriental ingredients with a western flair, and the Italian restaurant that serves authentic cuisine from the old country.

In addition to the swimming pool, a full-service health club and spa, tennis courts and a 1,000 square meter (10,700 square feet) six-lane indoor bowling alley will offer fitness, wellness, and recreational options for guests. For medical emergencies, the hotel features a fully- quipped Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with separate rooms for patients. A private helipad on the hotel grounds provides swift access for corporate magnates and dignitaries.

The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh joins eight other Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts currently operating or under development in the Middle East: Bahrain, Dubai, Sharm El Sheikh, Doha, Sharq Village & Spa, Dubai International Finance Centre, Abu Dhabi and Nile Cairo (opening in late 2011 and 2013 respectively.)

IHG Signs Holiday Inn Express in Legian Bali

2011-05-01T20:06:00.001-07:00

IHG has expanded its growing portfolio of Holiday Inn Express hotels in Asia with the signing of a new hotel in Bali.

The new Holiday Inn Express will be located Legian along Jalan Imam Bonjol. The hotel is only a few minutes walk away from Istana Kuta Galleria, Bali Bakery and other food and beverage establishments and activities.

The proposed 160-room Holiday Inn Express Bali Legian is slated to start construction mid-2011, and projected to open by early 2013.

In addition to having a gym, swimming pool and self-service laundry, the Holiday Inn Express Bali Legian will also feature the Great Room, a relaxing social lounge space for guests to connect, meet, eat and relax.

“The key to Holiday Inn Express’ rapid expansion is the value it provides for the mid-market, select service segment. Focused on providing only what guests need, and not charging for what they don’t, it is truly the smarter choice for today’s independent travellers,” Jan Smits, Chief Executive of IHG Asia Australasia. “We have confidence that Holiday Inn Express’ strong value proposition will resonate well with the market. Bali is Indonesia’s most popular holiday destination and is a great location for us to introduce the brand to the country. We continue to look for the right opportunities to expand Holiday Inn Express’ presence in other key Indonesian cities.”

Globally, there are currently 2,075 Holiday Inn Express hotels located across major cities. In Asia Pacific, the brand is expanding rapidly from its current 30 hotels and will open new hotels in Thailand, Singapore and India within the next few years.

Kasemkij Hotels Expands Ayutthaya Options

2011-04-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

Kasemkij Hotels has opened Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya - Phase Two. It is the top City Hotel in Ayutthaya, providing a great variety of amenities, ranging from restaurants, a hip café to meeting rooms to accommodate conference groups.

Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya - Phase Two is the latest project in the Kantary Collections, managed by Kasemkij Hotels. The modern-style building designed as a city hotel has five floors, including 20 studios and four one-bedroom accommodations.

Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya is located close to the entertainment, government office buildings and tourist attractions of this historic city.

Suitable for both short and long-term stays, room sizes start from a generous 41-46sqm and include full amenities and facilities, with a wood theme and earth tones, creating a warm feeling.

There are three accommodation types; Studio, One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom.

Facilities include an outdoor skyline swimming pool with views of nearby Buddhist Temples, a fully-equipped fitness centre, a sauna and a comfortable Executive Lounge.

The California Steak Restaurant, open every day from six am to midnight, serves authentic international and Thai dishes.

Mr. Wiwat Tangchitkobboon, Group Director, Corporate of Kasemkij Co., Ltd. said, “Kantary Hotels are expanding in order to serve the demands of both the tourism and business sectors. Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya, having been open since 2009, is launching its Phase Two with 24 rooms in the middle of April as the best city hotel of Phra Nakhonsri Ayutthaya Province.”

Best Western Opens First Plus Hotel in Asia Pacific

2011-04-26T19:02:00.001-07:00

Best Western has opened the very first Best Western Plus hotel in Asia Pacific.

The Best Western Plus @20 Sukhumvit in Bangkok, Thailand, is located, as the name suggests, on Sukhumvit Soi 20, within walking distance of Sukhumvit Road itself and close to the Emporium shopping complex and bustling Asoke intersection.

The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Asoke Skytrain and Sukhumvit MRT underground stations, linking guests to more major commercial, shopping and entertainment areas such as Ratchaprasong, Siam, Pratunam and Silom.

The hotel’s 78 guestrooms are in Twin, Super King and Suite categories and feature state-of-the-art in-room entertainment, high quality amenities and well-equipped workspace.

Facilities at Best Western Plus @20 Sukhumvit include a rooftop Jacuzzi, concierge desk, business services, tour arrangements, valet parking, laundry and dry cleaning service, as well as a daily newspaper delivery service.

Close to the hotel is Benjasiri Park, which is ideal for jogging, and reflexology salons.

Diners are well catered to, with the casually elegant rooftop restaurant TropiKool serving breakfast and an international a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. Rewind Eatery & Bar is a relaxing street level cocktail lounge serving Tandoori specials.

“The new Best Western Plus is positioned toward a growing segment of trendy yet value-conscious travelers who are increasingly sophisticated and want hotels offering a lifestyle along with the traditional bed and breakfast element,” said Best Western International’s Vice President for Operations Asia and the Middle East Glenn de Souza. “Best Western Plus @20 Sukhumvit perfectly represents what the new Best Western Plus has to offer.”

75 Microtel Hotels Planned for Canada

2011-04-25T21:09:00.001-07:00

More than 75 new construction Microtel Inns & Suites are expected to open in Canada over the next 25 years as part of a master development agreement between Wyndham Hotel Group and MasterBUILT Hotels.

The Microtel Inns & Suites brand is a chain of new construction only economy hotels located throughout North America, South America and Asia offering an array of amenities that include complimentary local and long-distance phone calls within the continental United States, free high-speed wired and wireless internet access, and complimentary continental breakfast. Most properties also offer meeting and fitness facilities, swimming pool and guest laundry and select properties allow pets and offer print, copy and fax services.

Led by Jay Westman and Marc Staniloff, MasterBUILT Hotels is a joint venture between JWI Investments LP, parent company of Western Canadian home builder Jayman MasterBUILT, and Superior Lodging Corp., master developer of Wyndham Hotel Group’s Super 8 brand in Canada.

“Marc’s leadership has proven to be an outstanding asset in helping grow the Super 8 brand in Canada and we have no doubt that he will help do the same with our award winning Microtel brand,” said Eric Danziger, Wyndham Hotel Group president and CEO. “His knowledge of the market and passion for the industry are unparalleled. With his dedication and determination, Microtel will become a household name among travelers in Canada.”

Staniloff, along with Superior Lodging Corp., signed a master development agreement for the Super 8 brand in Canada in 1992 and, through his 19 year tenure, has grown the brand’s portfolio to include approximately 130 Super 8 hotels throughout every province in Canada. Staniloff and Superior also have a portfolio of three Wingate by Wyndham hotels in the country.

“The Canadian market continues to show great potential and is on the upswing, making now the right time to bring the Microtel brand to the country in a big way,” said Staniloff. “We couldn’t be more pleased to be working with Wyndham Hotel Group again to make that happen.”

Currently, the Microtel Inns & Suites brand has two hotels open in Canada, one in Parry Sound, ON and another in Woodstock, ON. The brand also has previously signed agreements for an additional 10 hotels in the country.

Carlson Signs Four Hotels in China

2011-04-23T07:05:00.000-07:00

Carlson has signed four new hotel management agreements in China, bringing Carlson’s China portfolio to 25 hotels, including 10 in operation and 15 under development.

The four new hotel signings in China include:

• The Radisson Blu Resort Baoting which is Carlson’s third property in the Hainan province. The 300-room hotel is owned by Beijing Chun Guang Investment Group. The resort will be developed within the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Park and is in close proximity to other top national tourist attractions such as the Qixianling National Forest Park and the Qixianling 18-hole golf course. The resort is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2013.

• The Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Hangzhou Xiaoshan which will be in the newly established Xiaoshan area of Hangzhou city. Owned by Zhejiang Wanxiang Real Estate Company Limited, the 230-room hotel will comprise 23 suites and 207 rooms. The hotel will feature a Chinese restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge and bar, a ballroom, 10 meeting rooms, a business center, a swimming pool and a fitness center. The hotel is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2015.

• The US$ 60 million Park Plaza Ordos which will be built at the Yixing International Commercial and Trade City in the Dongshen district. The hotel is owned by Ordos Yixing Group and will be part of a mixed-use development comprising high-end residences, offices, commercial facilities, a golf course and an entertainment complex. The 250-room hotel will comprise 10 suites and 240 rooms. The hotel will offer a wide range of dining options including an all-day dining restaurant, a Chinese specialty restaurant, a Western restaurant, a bar and a lobby lounge. The hotel is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2014.

• The Park Plaza Shenyang Hunnan which is Carlson’s second hotel agreement with Shenyang New Times Hotels Company Limited in China. The owning company has invested US$ 120 million in the Park Plaza Shenyang Hunnan and the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Shenyang Hunnan, which is already under development. The Park Plaza Shenyang Hunnan will be in Shenyang’s central business district, near the Shenyang exhibition center and sports stadium. It will be a mixed-use development comprising the hotel, a cinema and a gaming center. The 362-room hotel will feature 18 suites and 344 rooms, as well as an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge, a fully-equipped business center, 24 meeting rooms and a health and spa center. The hotel is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2013.

“China is one of Carlson’s most important focus markets in Asia Pacific and we are investing into business resources and talent capability that will make us one of the most successful hotel operators in the country,” said Simon C. Barlow, president, Carlson Hotels, Asia Pacific. “The four hotel agreements that we have signed today are a good indication of our development plans for China.”

Win a Trip to the 2011 UEFA Champions League Final

2011-04-21T01:06:00.000-07:00

Want to watch the 2011 UEFA Champions League Final at Wembley in London?

ZUJI is now offering football fans the chance to win UEFA Champions League Final tickets and a 5 days 3 nights accommodation with flights to London for two.

Until 8 May 2011, fans have the chance to win a trip to attend the 2011 UEFA Champions League Final by simply booking a hotel or package through ZUJI and sharing their creative celebration idea should their favourite team win. Every booking is entitled to one opportunity. Terms and conditions apply.

ZUJI recently signed a two-year strategic collaboration with MasterCard Worldwide across the Asia Pacific region that will offer MasterCard cardholders in the region exclusive deals and packages across ZUJI’s global network of over 400 airlines and 63,000 hotels.

Aston to Open New Hotel and Conference Center in Palembang, Sumatra

2011-04-19T01:36:00.000-07:00

Aston is to open a new 4-star hotel and conference center in Palembang, just in time for the 2011 SEA Games.

The Aston Palembang Hotel & Conference Center is set to open in summer of this year and will be half way between Palembang’s airport and the Central Business District on Jalan Basuki Rahmat serving Palembang’s growing business travel and conference market as well as domestic leisure travelers from the surrounding areas.

The hotel will will offer 147 guest rooms and suites and feature extensive meeting facilities such as a large ballroom with a capacity of up to 600 guests and several auxiliary meeting rooms.

Norbert Vas, VP Sales & Marketing Aston International, said, “This newest Aston Hotel & Conference Center fits perfectly into our goal of becoming Indonesia’s leading hotel group for meetings and conferences by developing mid seized international standard 4-star hotels with sophisticated meeting facilities throughout several Indonesian provincial capitals and secondary cities. In the past 15 months we opened similar properties in Pontianak, Serpong, Bogor, Bandung, Jayapura and most recently in Banka and have further Aston Hotels & Conference Centers under construction in Solo, Purwokerto, Jambi, Makassar and Banjarmasin.”

Preferred Opens Shanghai Office

2011-04-17T21:37:00.001-07:00

Preferred Hotel Group has opened an office in Shanghai, China. The office is the company's 31st sales office globally and sixth in the region.

Spearheading Preferred Hotel Group's Shanghai office is the company's newly appointed Director, Global Sales – China, Renee Wu.

A Taiwanese national, Renee has a wealth of sales experience in the Chinese luxury hotel industry. Prior to joining Preferred, she was the Associate Regional Director of Sales for Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts after spending two years with Four Seasons Shanghai as Director of Sales. Previous roles included senior sales positions in The Portman Ritz-Carlton in Shanghai, Shangri-La's China World Hotel in Beijing, and Grand Hyatt Taipei.

"We recognize the need for a strong dedicated sales office in China to reinforce our brands, as well as to source inbound and outbound business for our member hotels worldwide," said Mark Simmons, Area Managing Director – Asia. "With the tremendous spending power and increased travel to regional and long-haul destinations, the Chinese are increasingly becoming an important market for all of our members. With her experience in the five-star luxury market and established network, Renee will be an asset to Preferred and our member hotels."

Renee's key responsibilities include driving business from the corporate, MICE, and leisure markets outbound from China to Preferred Hotel Group members globally, increasing revenue share for existing member hotels in China, and strengthening the presence of the company's four key brands.

The Shanghai office is at:
Shanghai Kerry Centre
Level 29, Suite 2920
1515 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai 200040
Telephone: +86 21 6103 7131 | Fax: +86 21 6103 7070

Boeing Expands Landing Gear Solutions

2011-04-14T20:32:00.001-07:00

Boeing has expanded its Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Program to cover the 777-200LR (Longer Range), 777 Freighter and 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes to provide more customers with greater service for landing gear support.

Boeing's Material Services currently provides landing gear overhaul and exchange solutions to more than 75 customers on the MD-11, 717, Next-Generation 737, Boeing Business Jet, 747-400ER, 757-300, 767-300ER and the 777-200ER airframes.

"Landing gear exchange is a proven service that helps airlines operate more efficiently by providing service-ready landing gear when they need them," said John Borst, director of Material Services Landing Gear Programs. "Boeing's landing gear team works with our partners across the globe to develop solutions for our customers."

Using the global network of Boeing repair service centers, airline customers can receive certified landing gear support anywhere around the world from Boeing. The service provides access to landing gear repair, exchanges and overhauls, which greatly reduces maintenance time and quickly returns their airplanes to revenue service.

ACI Asia Pacific Elects New Board Members

2011-04-13T03:10:00.000-07:00

Mr. James Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports Company (UAE) and Mr. Rodolfo Echeverria, Chief Financial Officer of Airport International Group (Jordan) have been unanimously elected to fill the two vacancies of the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia Pacific Regional Board. The new Board Members will serve a three-year term with immediate effect.

Tan Sri Bashir Ahmad Abdul Majid, President, ACI Asia Pacific and Managing Director, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, said, “I wish to welcome the new members of the Regional Board. The two new board members, with extensive experience in the airport industry will be great assets to the Regional Board.”

Mrs. Maggie Kwok, Regional Director of ACI Asia Pacific added, “I truly look forward to working closely with Mr. Bennett and Mr. Echeverria. The Regional Office appreciates the guidance from our Regional Board to shape our policy and overall development. I am confident that this new Board composition will bring new insights to the ACI Asia Pacific Region.”

ACI Asia Pacific Regional Board is a governing body which determines the overall development strategy of ACI Asia Pacific region. The Board is composed of 24 aviation business leaders across the region.

Spa at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai - HD Video Interview

2011-04-10T21:05:00.001-07:00

For some travellers, it may be what gourmet options an hotel offers, for others it may be the speed of the internet which is a priority, or the ambiance of the resort, and for many others it could well be the quality of the spa which is one of the most important factors when choosing an hotel.

There are few spas in the world as impressive, architecturally, as the spa at the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. If there was an award for the most photographed spa in the world then this property would surely win, or at the very least be a main contender.

But what can you as a guest expect from the spa? Who is in charge and how does it differ from other spas?

Below there are two videos. The first is a video interview with the very charming, Ms Tisna Prapansiri Rosen, Director of Wellness, in which we learn the answers to those questions plus much, much more. In the second, you will get a quick tour of the spa and what it is like on the inside.

Accor Opens Ibis Hotel on Balestier Road in Singapore

2011-04-08T00:09:00.001-07:00

Accor has opened its second ibis hotel in Singapore.

The ibis Singapore Novena, located on Balestier Road, features 241 compact rooms equipped with a 32-inch LCD TV, complimentary broadband and Wi-Fi Internet access, in-room safe and a large bay window. It also operates an in-house launderette and a fitness centre.

Ms. Shamila Rolfe, General Manager, ibis Singapore Novena, said, “The Singapore Tourism Board expects 12 to 13 million visitors to arrive in Singapore in 20111 resulting in a strong demand for centrally located, quality yet affordable accommodations. ibis Singapore Novena, is ideally positioned to meet this demand and as evidenced through our current bookings; we expect the hotel to become a favourite among visitors from neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia as well of course as longer haul markets.”

The hotel is located around 10 to 15 minutes by foot from the Novena MRT station, and is also within walking distance of some excellent dining options, including the Whampoa Makkan Centre - which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (all day, every day) and is one of the best places to enjoy local cuisine - and what could well be the Best Chicken Rice in Singapore.

To celebrate its opening, the hotel is offering a special rate of Sin$ 128++ until 30 December 2011.

Worldhotels Opens its First Office in India

2011-04-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Worldhotels is extending its global hospitality marketing and distribution network with the opening of a new office in India, its first in this rapidly expanding economy.

Hospitality industry veteran Naresh Chandnani has been appointed Regional Director Hotel Development India Subcontinent and Maldives to establish the dedicated division.

The new office in Delhi NCR (National Capital Region) has been established to support the significant growth of Worldhotels in India, with a portfolio of nine hotels in its network so far but earmarked for significant growth.

Indian affiliates to the network to date are Asiana Hotel in Chennai, The Claridges in New Delhi and Surajkund, Asiana Hotel Chennai, Pride Park Premier in Gurgaon, The Sahara Star in Mumbai, Aamby Valley in Pune, Matthan Hotel in Bangalore and new Svenska Hotels in Mumbai Juhu and Bangalore Electronic City.

Worldhotels Vice President Asia Pacific Roland Jegge said, “Opening a dedicated office in India is a significant step, supporting a fast- growing network on the sub-continent as we continue to expand worldwide.”

Worldhotels is rapidly extending its global reach, having recently opened a Russia office in Moscow. The network expanded to 450 hotels (100,000 rooms) in 2010, with 25% growth in room night production from 2009. In addition, the group added a record 73 new hotels to its portfolio in the last one year, many in new destinations. Worldhotels’ ambitious expansion targets 80 new hotels joining its global portfolio this year.

With 25 years of hospitality experience spanning operations, sales and marketing and strategic business and brand development, Mr Chandnani is primarily focused on expanding the brand presence in India.

His hotel career has included 14 years with TAJ Hotels, three years with Hyatt Hotels and Resorts and the past eight years launching IHHR Hospitality and ISTA Hotels in India, as their Vice President Sales and Marketing.

Absolute Signs Hotel in Bay of Bengal

2011-04-05T22:21:00.001-07:00

Absolute Hotel Services India has signed a management contract with Brijsons Hotel Pvt. Ltd to manage the 144-room Chariot Resort & Spa Puri. The resort is scheduled to be fully operational by mid 2011.

The Chariot Resort & Spa Puri nestles amidst a natural lagoon with a private beachfront and is conveniently located on the New Marine Drive of the Bay of Bengal, 65 kilometers away from Biju Pattnayak International Airport in Bhubaneshwar (the capital of Orissa) and 7 kilometers away from the Puri Railway Station.

All 102 rooms and 42 suites (35 sqm – 90 sqm) feature private balconies, internet access, IDD telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, in-room entertainment systems and TV.

The restaurants and bars include The Upper Deck which offers all day dining with a choice of international dishes and authentic Indian cuisine, The Laguna, open for dinner only, offers a distinct dining experience of the finest Indian and international contemporary favorites, The Tide Bar offers an array of liquors, cocktails, wine and variety of snacks.

Other services include spa facilities with meditation room, a gym, outdoor swimming pool, business center and Wi-Fi internet access.

For meetings and events, the conference room can accommodate up to 300 guests according to the choice of venue and seating configuration. Outdoor functions can be hosted on the foreshore lawns and pool side depending on the season and number of attendees.

Ritz-Carlton Returns to Hong Kong

2011-03-31T03:29:00.001-07:00

Ritz-Carlton officially returned to the vibrant city of Hong Kong today, after an absence of just over three years.

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, one of the world’s highest hotels, is located at the very top of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) in Hong Kong, occupying floors 102 to 118.

Guests are welcomed into the arrival lobby on the 9th floor before being transported up to the hotel lobby on the 103rd floor where panoramic views over Hong Kong await them.

The hotel’s 312 guest rooms all offer spectacular city and harbour views. Starting at 50sqm for a Deluxe Room, and reaching 365sqm for the Ritz-Carlton Suite, rooms provide state-of-the-art technology including WiFi, iPod docking stations, Blu-ray DVD players and flat screen TVs.

In addition, Club room guests can enjoy the panoramic view from the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge with complimentary food and beverage presentations 24 hours a day. The Club also gives guests access to a dedicated Club Concierge, work stations, meeting rooms and WiFi throughout.

The hotel’s six dining venues have been created by some of the biggest names in restaurant design, including Japan’s Spin Design Studio and Wonderwall. The hotel offers three restaurants on the 102nd floor, including Tin Lung Heen, which is a Chinese restaurant serving Cantonese cuisine. Tosca, an Italian restaurant which offers Southern Italian cuisine with an open kitchen and the stylish The Lounge & Bar which features crystal fire pits. In addition, there is a chocolate-themed lounge named The Chocolate Library on the 103rd floor and a patisserie named Pastry Gems located on the 9th floor.

Perhaps the jewel in the crown is Ozone located on the hotel’s 118th floor. This sleek, stylish and contemporary restaurant and bar is aiming to set a new benchmark for Hong Kong’s social and dining scene. Offering contemporary Asian tapas, signature cocktails and a stylish wine list, Ozone has bar and restaurant seating in zoned sections and the world’s highest al fresco terrace where guests can indulge in the incredible views over the city.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA is located on the 116th floor and features nine deluxe treatment rooms and two couple’s suites all with floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic view.

The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness centre and an indoor infinity pool overlooking Victoria Harbour on the 118th floor with a 28m x 7m LED screen on the ceiling that can display images and videos.

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong has one of the largest ballrooms in the city at 930sqm. This is complemented by an additional four meeting rooms, giving a total of 1,300sqm of meeting space.

In the podium of the ICC, the one million square foot Elements shopping mall offers some of the finest shopping in Hong Kong with luxury brand names featured throughout this world-class location. The ICC will also host an Observation Deck, Sky100 on the 100th floor and offer direct connections to Hong Kong International Airport in 20 minutes and Central in five minutes.

“The opening of this landmark hotel in Hong Kong is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication to delivering the very best product, facilities and service in this international gateway city,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “Partnering with Hong Kong’s premier developer, Sung Hung Kai Properties, we have been able to create something truly spectacular to welcome our guests not just to the highest hotel in the world, but also to one of the very best hotels in the world. We are taking luxury to new heights in every sense.”

China Hotel Industry Expected to Ride on Continued Bullish Economic Growth

2011-03-29T17:52:00.001-07:00

The 7th Annual China Hotel Development and Financing Conference, organized by Horwath HTL, STR Global and the China Tourist Hotels Association (CTHA), was held last week at the Crowne Plaza Sun Palace in Beijing, China. The event attracted about 600 participants, 20 percent more than 2010.

Mr. Zhang Run Gang, President of China Tourist Hotels Association, opened the conference with optimism in the Chinese tourism and hotel industry, while highlighting the challenges, namely rising inflation, labour shortage and increasing labour costs, and the potential impact from the Japan Disaster.

This sentiment was seconded by Mr. Liu Shi Jun, Deputy Director General of the China National Tourism Administration. He reinstated that low pay levels in the hotel industry is an obstacle in attracting and retaining talents. He lobbied for industry partners to collaborate on addressing this pressing issue.

Also speaking at the conference was Mr. Stephen Green, Head of Research for Standard Chartered in Greater China. According to Green, China is expected to register a GDP growth of 8.5 percent in 2011 and 9 percent in 2012, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) also growing by 5.5 percent and 3 percent respectively. It is predicted that China will be the world’s largest economy by 2020, and that the country will contribute 23 percent of global GDP by 2030. In contrast, the bank predicts that the US economy will shrink from contributing 24 percent of global GDP in 2010 to 12 percent by 2030. In 2010, the GDP of China grew by about 10.3 percent and accounted for 10 percent of the world’s GDP.

According to Mr. Jonas Ogren, Area Director of STR Global Asia, RevPAR of hotels in Asia Pacific rose by 21.3 percent, after a drastic drop of 19.4 percent in 2009. Between 2004 and 2008, the rolling ADR of hotels in China peaked at about RMB 588, but fell by 38 percent during the global financial crisis. ADR levels in the country are recovering, and the national aggregate is now at approximately RMB 478. In 2010, key markets such as Shanghai, Hong Kong and Beijing witnessed ADR growth of 47 percent, 32 percent and 28 percent respectively; with the significant ADR growth in Shanghai largely credited to the Shanghai World Expo held from May to October 2010. However, he pointed out that occupancy and ADR levels of luxury and upper upscale hotels in Shanghai and Beijing are still trailing behind other key gateway cities in the region, such as Sydney, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore. Ogren added that new hotel developments in China account for about 56 percent of the 334, 586 new hotel rooms to enter Asia in the next 3 to 4 years, and that hotel room inventory in China will increase by about 16 percent over this period.

Pegasus Solutions Launches MetaSearch Services

2011-03-10T01:18:00.001-08:00

Pegasus Solutions has launched MetaSearch Services, a solution that allows hotels to capture direct bookings from metasearch results.

The product, being introduced by Pegasus at ITB Berlin Hall 8.1 stand 111, recently completed beta testing with several major hotel chains during which they achieved a return on investment of up to 5:1 for every US dollar spent. The program is now available to Pegasus’ 90,000 hotel customers worldwide.

With MetaSearch Services, Pegasus increases the revenue opportunity for hotels seeking business through online search by displaying and linking directly to hotel information, rate and availability in metasearch results. The product allows metasearch engines to shop hotels and travel suppliers through Pegasus, but sends the booking directly to the hotel chain or hotel web site.

“Hotels need to be able to reach consumers wherever they choose to shop, whether they prefer to book through an online travel agency or directly with the hotel,” said David Sjolander, vice president of product management, distribution services for Pegasus Solutions. “Our MSS enables hotels to provide consumers with this choice when they elect to conduct price comparisons using metasearch.”

Pegasus currently connects tens of thousands of hotels to the global distribution systems (GDS) and alternative distribution systems (ADS), or online channels, through the UltraDirect interface. UltraDirect connects metasearch engines to the central reservation systems (CRSs) of most worldwide hotel chains. MetaSearch Services leverages UltraDirect’s real-time access to updated rates and inventory, offering hotels the option to direct the actual booking directly to the hotel or chain site.

“The hotel industry is in the midst of a major transition in terms of the way travel is being distributed, shopped and sold,” added Sjolander. “We’re seeing the market evolve. Hotels require fresh solutions like MetaSearch Services that allow them to compete strategically in today’s market.”

Aston Signs favehotel in Bogor

2011-03-03T19:26:00.001-08:00

Aston has signed a favehotel in Bogor, Indonesia. The new select service hotel will open in June 2012 and be adjacent to Bogor’s busiest mall, Botani Square. The 2-star hotel will feature 135 guest rooms and family suites, a café shop and 6 meeting rooms to serve the mid week meeting and conference market out of Jakarta.

Aston International’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Mr. Norbert Vas, said, “Since its inception in 2009, favehotel has developed into the undisputed lead brand for budget hotels in Indonesia and afar. The hotels currently in operation are running occupancies in the high ninety’s and are delivering fantastic financial returns while at the same time getting positive reviews from customers. The brand is positioned to play a dominant role in SE Asia and appeals to a wide range of travelers making it a safe bet for hotel developers. Jakarta already has 3 faves under construction and plenty of room for more while other larger cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Solo will also have multiple faves. Bali alone, with its growing regional demand for international standard budget hotels, has already five favehotels on the drawing board and further faves are being built in Tangerang, Serpong, Makassar, Langkawi – Malaysia and Alabang – Philippines.”

There are currently 2 favehotels in operation in Denpasar, Bali and Surabaya and another 15 under development with the next opening scheduled for April 2011 in Seminyak, Bali.

Sherona Lau Joins Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong as DOSM

2011-02-28T19:49:00.000-08:00

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, located in the heart of the city’s Central District, has appointed Sherona Lau as Director of Sales & Marketing.

Prior to joining The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, Sherona served as Director of Sales and Marketing for The Ritz-Carlton Sanya, where she helped open the resort.

Starting her career as a management trainee at the Yinhe Dynasty Inter-Continental Hotel in China, and discovering her passion for the industry, Sherona then joined The Peninsula Hotels, where she spent eight years in various positions in Sales and Marketing at the regional office and The Peninsula Bangkok.

Committed and dedicated to her profession, Sherona has worked in North America, Europe, and Asia, where she developed strong international sales and marketing skills, as well as hands-on experience in the resort, luxury, and business segments.

A native of Hong Kong, Sherona holds an Associate Degree from Domino Carlton Tivoli University Centre in Switzerland, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree at Florida International University. Additionally, she has also completed a Group Professional Development Program in Cornell University.

Swissôtel signs Odessa Hotel

2011-02-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

Swissôtel has signed a management contract with the Ukrainian investors, Interpoint Development, for the Swissôtel Odessa, a new hotel scheduled to open in spring 2013.

Swissôtel Odessa will include 333 rooms, a lobby lounge-bar with a library, two restaurants and a brasserie with an extensive terrace overlooking the Black Sea, as well as separate private dining rooms for events.

A panoramic lounge “Skybar” on the top floor will offer visitors a relaxing atmosphere from which to enjoy the views. Other hotel facilities will include spacious conference and banquet rooms, a Pürovel Spa & Sport complex with extensive fitness facilities, various treatment rooms as well indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel will also have direct access to the beach.

“There has never been a project of this kind in Odessa before,” said Meinhard Huck, President of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. “The location of the hotel on the French Boulevard is really superb. The hotel is situated close to a park area, right on the coast of the Black Sea, and only 4 kilometers from the city centre. Interestingly enough at the end of the 19th century, a summer cottage situated nearby, that used to belong to a mayor of Odessa, was named “Switzerland”. We are looking forward to a fruitful partnership with Interpoint Development and HI-Raise Constructions, as well as the opening of a new Swissôtel in Eastern Europe.”

Odessa, amongst the top four largest cities in Ukraine with more than 1 million inhabitants, is considered to be one of the main destinations for business, culture and tourism in the country. Due to the presence of a well-connected international airport, together with a well-developed rail network, the largest sea port in Ukraine and its outstanding geographical location by the Black Sea coast, Odessa is a major transport and commercial hub.

State and national higher educational establishments are situated here: 8 academies and 8 universities. Moreover Odessa has a rich cultural heritage – magnificent buildings designed in various styles: art nouveau, baroque, eclecticism, Russian classicism. The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, Saint Assumption (Sviato-Uspenskii) Cathedral, Primorskii Boulevard, Potemkin Steps, streets and boulevards set off by trees and sand beaches are all beloved places by tourists.

Best Western launches Bonus Points Promotion

2011-02-09T18:44:00.001-08:00

Best Western is inviting members of of its rewards programme throughout Asia and the Middle East to earn 3,000 bonus points this spring.

To earn the bonus from the brand’s free global loyalty program, guests must register for the promotion and stay three separate times at any of Best Western’s 4,000 hotels worldwide between 6 February 2011 and 11 April 2011. The 3,000 bonus points are in addition to the points automatically earned for each stay. Regularly BWR members earn 10 points for every US$ spent on qualified room rates.

“Our latest offer gives Best Western Rewards members across Asia and the Middle-East the opportunity to add up additional bonus points that can be redeemed for a free night later on,” said Best Western International’s Vice President of International Operations – Asia & the Middle East, Glenn de Souza.

This bonus points promotion – which lasts 65 days – is the Best Western’s global birthday celebration commemorating 65 years in business.

Richard Munro Joins Worldhotels

2011-02-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

Worldhotels is eyeing expansion in Oceania with the appointment of accomplished Australian hotelier Richard Munro as Director Hotel Development Australia, New Zealand & Pacific.

His key role will be promoting Worldhotels’ new global branding solution for upscale independent hotel across Australasia and the South Pacific.

Based in Sydney, Mr Munro has a wealth of experience and is a former Chairman of the Australian Hotel Association NSW, and was voted Australian ‘General Manager of the Year’ in 2009.

His renowned corporate track record has included management roles with Parkroyal Hotels and InterContinental.

He joins Worldhotels from the celebrated casino hotel, Star City Sydney, where he was General Manager.

Mr Munro played a key role in Star City Sydney joining Worldhotels in 2009, which has since resulted in owners Tabcorp extending its successful partnership to its stable of four casino hotels in Australia.

He is now overseeing an initiative to extend Worldhotels’ presence in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

A key incentive for potential affiliates is Worldhotels’ new branding solution for upscale hotels, newly launched as an alternative to conventional franchise and management contracts with global hospitality brands.

“Independent four and five-star hotels can now brand themselves as ‘Worldhotels’ and benefit from the impact, support and strong return on investment of a global brand while still maintaining their unique identity,” said Roland Jegge, Vice President for Worldhotels Asia Pacific.

With initial newly-branded hotels in Almaty, Munich and Hamburg, Worldhotels aims to have a stable of 50 branded hotels by 2013.

Capitol Hotel Tokyu launches Buy 1 Get 1 Promotion

2011-02-04T23:42:00.001-08:00

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, a new 5-star hotel designed by architect Kengo Kuma in the centre of Tokyo, is offering travellers a special two nights for the price of one promotion.

The promotion means that Deluxe King rooms are available from 30,000 JPY (US$360) for two nights. This rate is available until April 30 and also includes free Wi-Fi and access to the fitness centre and swimming pool. The offer is limited to a maximum of 10 rooms per day.

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is located in Akasaka in downtown Tokyo, overlooking the city’s historic Hie Shrine and close to the Prime Minister’s official residence.

On the site of the former Tokyo Hilton Hotel, one of the first ever international hotels in Japan built in 1963, it was for many years “the” address in Tokyo, welcoming international VIPS and celebrities, including The Beatles.

The original hotel has now been demolished to make way for Kengo Kuma’s new architectural masterpiece, with panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline from the 18th to 29th floors.

Facilities include five restaurants and bars, five banquet spaces and two floors of state of the art fitness and spa facilities, including a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, membership gym and jacuzzi.

Located in central Tokyo within a 10-20 minutes subway ride from Tokyo Station and the major shopping and dining areas of Ginza, Roppongi, Shinjuku and Shibuya, the hotel is a prestigious venue for events such as weddings, parties, seminars and business meetings.

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

Raffles Praslin Seychelles to Open Spa in February

2011-01-30T20:15:00.000-08:00

Raffles Hotels & Resorts’ new resort in the Seychelles will open its new spa in February.

The spa at Raffles Praslin adopts the pearl theme to symbolise the wellness philosophy of transformation, just as the precious gemstone transforms from a grain of sand in a pearl oyster.

Elegant, iridescent mother-of pearl shell décor is featured throughout, the spa - an expression of the philosophy of transformation as well as the Seychelles’ reputation for producing exquisite pearls.

Its signature treatment, ‘Pure Pearl’, uses crushed pearls as its exfoliating agent for a transformation experience. Therapeutic grade pearl powder is blended with soothing tropical essences of organic ylang ylang and bergamot to exfoliate the skin.

Spa Director, Nik Pappas explains, “The pearl, a gift from the sea, has a rarity and magic that allows it to calm the spirit, open the heart chakra, stabilize emotions and rejuvenate the skin to a lustrous smooth appearance.”

Raffles Spa at Praslin is in one of the most exclusive settings in the Seychelles, close to a natural treasure, the Vallée de Mai UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spanning 1,243 square metres (13,379 square feet), it is one of the largest spas in the archipelago and features an impressive range of spa treatments, including facials, massages, soothing body therapies, manicure, pedicure, hair care, bridal services and even ‘treatments under the stars’.

Raffles Spa features 13 spa treatment pavilions close to the water, including two spa suites fitted with steam showers, Japanese soaking tubs, and observation decks to enjoy stunning vistas in absolute privacy.

Raffles Praslin Seychelles is a scenic 30-minute drive from Praslin Airport and features 86 villas with private plunge pools and views of the Indian Ocean. One and two-bedroom villa suite options are complemented by signature round-the-clock Raffles Butler service.

Phnom Penh

2011-01-23T23:05:00.000-08:00

Ask anyone about Cambodia's growing tourism industry and they will most likely mention Angkor Wat, which is after all, one of the world's true wonders. It has attracted millions from around the world.

A few of the more adventurous travellers, may also have experienced some of the amazing, if undevelopped, beaches to the south of the country. An airport, which has already been built, may even open sometime this year, allowing even more to enjoy some of the best beaches in the entire region.

But ask about the capital city, Phnom Penh, and many may find it hard to come up with a reason as to why they should visit the city. So, to answer this question, we asked a highly respected industry veteran who has been based in Phnom Penh twice, and is currently, in addition to being the General Manager of the InterContinental Phnom Penh, the Secretary General of the Cambodia Hotel Association.

We asked Mr. Stefan Voogel about this vibrant city, is it safe, why should people visit, what should they do when they do take the time to, are there sufficient rooms, is the government trying to use sports and other events to attract visitor arrivals, are there sufficient direct flights, how should travellers plan for a trip, what the best gifts to buy in the city are and much, much more.

Benny Chung Appointed GM of Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel in Singapore

2011-01-19T00:46:00.001-08:00

Mr Benny Chung has been appointed as General Manager of the 600-room Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel in Singapore.

A veteran hotelier with 26 years of working experience, he has worked with international hotel chains such as Hyatt, Mandarin Oriental, Regent, Concorde and InterContinental Hotels Group.

He has just spent six years in China, where he was involved with the repositioning of the Crowne Plaza Jinan. He also opened the 700-room Crowne Plaza Yantai and most recently, he was General Manager of the Holiday Inn Hefei Downtown.

The Peninsula.Excelsior hotel recently completed a renovation of its 600 rooms and suites in the 2 towers at the cost of Sin$25 million. The renovation included 6 Premier Club Floors with a 4,000 sq ft 2-level executive Sky Lounge located on the top floor of Peninsula Tower that now offers unobstructed views of the Marina Bay waterfront, the Singapore River and the Central Business District skyline.

Okura to Open Hotel in Macau

2011-01-09T22:24:00.000-08:00

Okura Hotels & Resorts will open its first property in Macau at the Galaxy Macau integrated destination resort in early 2011.

Hotel Okura Macau will feature 488 guest rooms, a Yamazato Japanese restaurant - with authentic kaiseki meals, freshly prepared sushi, grilled dishes and Japanese garden views - and several other features that are expected to be unveiled as the property moves closer to its opening date.

It is anticipated that accommodation at Hotel Okura Macau will be highly sought after by travelers from Japan and North Asia as well as a growing number of customers from mainland China and other Asian markets. Hotel Okura Macau is also positioned to help grow Japanese tourism to the city.

Mr. Yoshinari Fujii, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hotel Okura Macau, said, “Galaxy Macau enables us to introduce Okura’s unique Japanese style and quality to a new group of visitors. Okura has been the leading name in Japanese hospitality for over 50 years, and we look forward to delivering our world-class service, cuisine and culture to the many people from mainland China, Asia and around the world who will be visiting this special property.”

The 550,000-square-meter Galaxy Macau is scheduled to open in early 2011 as the newest integrated destination resort in the Special Administrative Region’s Cotai entertainment area.

With an investment of HK$14.9 billion, Galaxy Macau will feature a resort deck with a 4,000-square-meter man-made beach: 350 tons of white sand deposited along a 150-meter-long shoreline, framing one of the world’s largest rooftop wave pools, with waves reaching as high as 1.5 meters. It will also host one of the largest selections of Pan-Asian cuisine in Macau, including a wide range of Chinese ethnic cuisines, as well as vibrant bars, nightclubs and a retail boulevard.

New Pyrotechnics for Hong Kong’s New Year Countdown

2010-12-30T01:59:00.001-08:00

This year’s Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations on 31 December 2010 will feature new visual effects in the stunning pyrotechnic display, including numeric patterns for the countdown.

The combination of colourful patterns and movements atop the buildings will symbolise a soaring dragon, which is set to light up the spectacular, world-famous Victoria Harbour.

Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) Executive Director Mr Anthony Lau said, “Since their inception, the celebrations have become a major international event, attracting coverage by more than 200 television channels worldwide and HK$420 million worth of publicity value for Hong Kong last year.”

This year’s New Year Countdown Celebrations will feature brand new pyrotechnic effects. In the last 10 seconds preceding 2011, pyrotechnics carrying the patterns of number 10 to 1 will be launched one by one atop Two ifc and nine selected buildings on Hong Kong island to lead spectators in a citywide countdown. As the clock strikes midnight, a four-minute choreographed musical pyrotechnical show will commence. During the show, pyrotechnics will be ignited on both sides and atop Two ifc, as well as the top of the other nine buildings. As well as special visual treats, the display will symbolise a colourful dragon soaring up the sky above Victoria Harbour to stand for further progress of Hong Kong’s economy in 2011.

On the evening of 31 December, the HKTB will arrange music and dance performances on the Viewing Deck of Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) from 11:15pm. The countdown and the live performances will be projected onto the façade of HKCC for spectators to enjoy, and broadcast live by TVB Jade Channel.

Other than the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, visitors and residents can enjoy the pyrotechnic display at various vantage points, such as along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront between the Avenue of Stars and HKCC, and along the West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade in Kowloon. On Hong Kong island, visitors and residents can enjoy the spectacle along the Expo Promenade at the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai and around Central Piers.

Manila to Host PATA Travel Mart 2012

2010-12-27T22:45:00.000-08:00

Manila has been chosen as the host city of the PATA Travel Mart 2012.

Manila hosted the very first PATA Travel Mart back in 1978, when over 300 delegates assembled to experience one of Asia Pacific’s first regional industry trade events. After more than three decades PATA Travel Mart still remains one of Asia Pacific’s leading travel trade shows.

In the past, the Philippines has also hosted several key PATA events including the 29 PATA Annual Conference and Workshop in 1980; PATA Annual Board of Directors Meetings in 1989; the 47 PATA Annual Conference in 1998; the Chapter World Congress and the PATA Board of Directors Meeting in 2002.

Alberto A Lim, secretary, Philippine Department of Tourism, said “The decision of the PATA Executive board to award this event to the Philippines is a strong indication of the region’s business confidence in the country. The forthcoming PTM2012 will give us the opportunity to showcase once again the beauty and culture of our country and the charm, warmth and hospitality of a friendly people, as well as the new tourism infrastructure in place since the last time we hosted a big PATA event in 1998. Our public and private sectors will now join hands to work for the success of PTM2012 for the sake of Philippine tourism as well as the entire Pacific Asia region.”

While the dates are yet to be confirmed, the event is scheduled to take place at the SMX Convention Center, one of the largest private venues in the Philippines and one of the flagship establishments of the country’s MICE industry.

Crowne Plaza Returns to Bangkok

2010-12-27T01:15:00.001-08:00

IHG’s Crowne Plaza brand today returns to Bangkok following the rebranding of the popular Pan Pacific Hotel.

The 241-room Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park is located on the 21st to 32nd floors of the Ramaland complex in the Silom-Rama IV district.

The property is a short distance from the Siam Paragon shopping mall, Bangkok Convention Centre, Chulalongkorn University and a vast variety of retail, dining and entertainment options in the Silom area.

Next door to the property are two key public transport options – the Sala Daeng sky train and the Silom subway – both providing quick, easy access to the rest of the city.

The hotel’s meeting and conference facilities, lobby and entrance will be renovated shortly to reflect the Crowne Plaza brand.

Guests can enjoy a range of dining and leisure options within the hotel, including five food-and-beverage outlets, extensive banqueting facilities, a resort-style pool and a spa.

“This hotel provides the perfect launch pad for the Crowne Plaza brand in Thailand,” said General Manager, Mark Winterton. “The location and business-oriented services and facilities – promising a great night’s sleep and intuitive business solutions – make it an ideal choice for the corporate traveller and meetings market. The hotel also showcases all the hallmarks of the Crowne Plaza brand.”

Hotel DeBrett in Auckland Joins Design Hotels

2010-12-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Design Hotels has added another hotel to its Oceania portfolio – Hotel DeBrett in New Zealand.

Situated in a traditional Art Deco building in Auckland’s hip fashion district, the 25-room hotel is designed and run by Michelle Deery and John Courtney.

Every room has a unique design and features eclectic furniture and New Zealand art and photography.

As a reinvention of one of Auckland’s oldest hotels, Hotel DeBrett retains some of its homey and familiar features, such as an open gas-burning fire, oak floorboards and exposed brick walls.

The hotel’s bar has been carefully restored to its former glory, and is fast-becoming the place to see and be seen in the city. Guests can choose from the cocktail menu, or sample a local boutique beer or glass of wine from a carefully selected list of New Zealand wines. In keeping with the friendly ambience, guests are invited to enjoy a nightly complimentary drink hosted by the hotel’s owners or manager in the private drawing room.

The Kitchen restaurant, headed by award-winning chef Mark Sycamore, serves seasonal dishes which can be enjoyed in the glass-roofed atrium, or in private dining suites.

A cozy drawing room for hotel guests offers a retreat from the lively atrium and is equipped with board games, a record player and a wide selection of books and DVD's.

There is also free gym access, and a variety of meeting spaces, including a courtyard, basement, loft suite and boardroom.

Hotel DeBrett is just a short walk from the restaurants and bars of Viaduct Harbour, the Sky Tower, Vector Arena, and the Ferry Building. The hotel is surrounded by cultural offerings including art galleries, theaters and museums.

Rates at Hotel DeBrett are from NZ$ 300–600, including complimentary continental breakfast, free Internet access, free local calls and a complimentary pre-dinner drink every night.

Aston Opens New Hotel in Bogor

2010-12-15T19:15:00.001-08:00

Aston International has opened the group’s first hotel in Bogor – the 4-star Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort.

The Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort is part of the Nirwana Epicentrum commercial and entertainment area and features 123 rooms and suites in a variety of configurations ranging from studios to one and two bedroom serviced condominiums.

Facilities include a lobby lounge, coffee shop, terrace café, a large pillar less ballroom and several modern meeting rooms as well as ample of recreation options such as fitness center, spa and a large outdoor swimming pool.

Hotel guests will also benefit from the many nearby attractions such as The Jungle Water Park which is literally right next to the new hotel, as well as Orchard Walk with its many Restaurants and Cafes.

Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort’s General Manager, M. Darto said, “Bogor is one of Indonesia’s major leisure and MICE destinations. The new Aston Bogor Hotel & Resort was designed to become the premier venue for the city’s social and commercial activities and as such is the perfect location for business assignments, leisure stays, meetings, and exhibitions.”

Marriott Signs Hotel in Hoi An, Vietnam

2010-12-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

Marriott International has signed a long-term management agreement with Phat Dat Quang Ngai Hotel & Resort Corp. to operate the 250-room Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa.

The resort, which is scheduled to open in 2015, will be the ninth Marriott International-flagged property and second Marriott-branded resort in Vietnam.

The Hoi an Marriott Resort & Spa will be located at Cua Dai Beach on the South China Sea, approximately a five-minute drive northeast of Hoi An’s Ancient Town and about a 35-minute drive from Da Nang International Airport.

Guestrooms at the Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa will have balconies from which to enjoy the panoramic beach and coastline. The resort will have four food and beverage outlets as well as abundant recreational amenities such as three swimming pools, a world-class spa and outdoor tennis courts.

The Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa will also feature 1,100 square meters of function space including a 750-square meter ballroom.

Hoi An is highly regarded by travelers around the world for its charm and history. Its Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features beautiful architecture dating back 200 years. Visitors can experience riverside dining and enjoy a variety of retail offerings of artwork, silk and the town’s famous custom-tailored outfits. Hoi An is also well-known for its quality beaches, diverse water and adventure-based activities, world-class golf courses and proximity to two other UNESCO World Heritage sites - the ancient imperial city of Hue and the ruins of the Champa Empire at My Son.

“We’re delighted by the continued expansion of our hotel portfolio in Vietnam and to participate in the emergence of Vietnam as a world-class travel destination,” said Simon Cooper, Marriott’s president for the Asia-Pacific region. “With its emphasis on contemporary design, technology and attention to guest service, backed by Marriott’s wide-ranging distribution channels, strong sales and marketing systems and brand recognition, we’re confident that the Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa will very quickly become a favorite choice among MICE and leisure travelers who select Hoi An as their next port of call.”

The Marriott International portfolio in Vietnam currently includes the Renaissance Riverside Saigon and the New World Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City. Six additional properties are planned or under construction. They include the 200-room Courtyard by Marriott Ham Tan (2011), the 250-room Nha Trang Marriott (2012), the 450-room JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi (2012), the 320-room JW Marriott Vinh Hoi Bay Resort & Spa (2014), Vinh Hoi Bay-A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (2014) and the 271-room JW Marriott Da Nanag Resort (2015).

Lady Gaga Unveiled at Madame Tussauds

2010-12-13T02:25:00.001-08:00

The new Lady Gaga figure at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong was unveiled this week wearing a black Marjan Pejoski body suit.

In the most ambitious figure launch in Madame Tussauds history, Hong Kong joins seven other attractions around the world revealing new Lady Gaga figures. Each has depicted the fashion icon in a totally different style and details about which city is getting which outfit were kept a closely guarded secret until the moment they were revealed.

The figure is featured in the Music Icons area. She wears a Black Marjan Pejoski body suit with oversized black neck ruff and sleek, super straight platinum hair.

“The demand to include Lady Gaga has been overwhelming,” said Bret Pidgeon, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and Shanghai. “It’s been quite a challenge to keep details of eight figure launches top secret but the fans certainly seem to have enjoyed the intrigue. We look forward to seeing the other styles at our sister attractions as they go public across the day in Shanghai, Amsterdam, London, Berlin, New York, Las Vegas and Hollywood.”

The eight styles are:

Lady in Lace - still to be revealed - Alex Noble lace body stocking and Philip Treacy face mask topped off with Marie Antoinette style ’fro, as seen at The Brit Awards 2010.

Telephone - still to be revealed - A custom-made Giorgio Armani Privé midnight blue outfit, featuring a double-breasted jacket with wide lapels, pagoda-style shoulders, flared trousers and towering heels. The look is completed by a telephone hat, realized in collaboration with Philip Treacy. As seen on Friday Night with Jonathan Ross March.

Harlequin - revealed at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong - Black Marjan Pejoski Body suit with oversized black neck ruff and sleek, super straight platinum hair. As seen at Grand Intercontinental Hotel Seoul, South Korea.

Kinky Boots - still to be revealed - Black satin body suit, leather belt and a Bruno Pieters silk jacket cut away to reveal black lace bra, quirky “disc” hat and thigh high black boots. As worn at the Hakkasan restaurant, London in April 2009.

Mini Mouse - still to be revealed - Off one shoulder black latex body suit with long straight hair topped off with “mini mouse” style bows. As seen at the BBC Radio 1 studios, London.

Hair Hat - still to be revealed - Gaga?s own blonde locks splayed out into a huge sunhat teamed with black ruched mesh dress by OLIMA. As seen at the Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas.

Wired “wing” dress with lightning “eye” - revealed at Madame Tussauds Shanghai - Short black Orschel-Read trousers with black top, thigh high patent boots and black lightning stripe make up over one eye as worn on the Wetten Dass..? game show, Germany in November 2009.

Big Hair - revealed at Madame Tussauds Amsterdam - Towering purple hair piece atop waist length platinum locks, with nude Maison Martin Margiela bodysuit, white blazer and huge platforms. As seen outside Phoenix Hotel.

Madame Tussauds has declared 9 December as “GAGA Day” to commemorate the special occasion.

Expedia Reports Strong Growth for Hotels in Indonesia

2010-12-07T22:43:00.001-08:00

Expedia has reported that the number of international bookings made on its global sites for travel to Indonesia has grown nearly 70% over the past twelve months, with the majority of the travelers coming from Australia, the US, and the UK.

The number of Indonesian hotels currently working with Expedia has also increased, growing nearly 50% during the same period of time.

“Indonesia is growing in popularity as a destination among travelers worldwide, and Expedia is committed to helping our hotel partners get in front of these travelers,” said Roman Kesseli, director of market management for Expedia, APAC. “We have a team of people dedicated to helping hotels in Indonesia showcase their properties to our global audience of travelers, and we’re excited by the growth our partners are seeing.”

Expedia plans to this month launch its low cost, commission-based Expedia Easy Manage (EEM) program in Indonesia, giving hotels more choice in how they can work with Expedia.

Jumeirah Signs Venu Hotel in Azerbaijan

2010-11-28T19:42:00.001-08:00

Jumeirah Group, a Dubai-based luxury hotel company and member of Dubai Holding, has signed an agreement with Azinco Holding Company to manage the Venu Bilgah Hotel, Baku. The hotel, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, is scheduled to open in 2011.

The hotel has been constructed in a wave-like structure reflecting the style of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai. Designed by local architect Nazim Valiev, the hotel will consist of 176 sea-facing guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a further two rooftop restaurants and bars, a 300 sqm spa with traditional Turkish and Finnish bath areas, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a 1500 sqm conference centre. The hotel complex will also include 14 villas.

Venu Bilgah Hotel, Baku is the first management agreement signed by Jumeirah Group in Azerbaijan. This agreement brings the total number of properties under development or in operation by Jumeirah globally to 49.

Venu is a new brand within the Jumeirah portfolio. In June, the group signed a Venu Hotel in Shanghai.

Absolute Hotel Services Signs Eastin Hotel in Ahmedabad

2010-11-27T03:51:00.001-08:00

Absolute Hotel Services has signed a new Eastin Hotel in India.

The brand new Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to open in mid 2013, will be developed on the main SG road in an important commercial location of Ahmedabad.

Absolute Hotel Services signed the management agreement with Shree Siddhi Hospitality LLP, a land development company for the residential and commercial sectors. They are an established company in the Ahmedabad area and have been operating since 1994. Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad will be part of an office and shopping complex development.

“The hotel will be a four-star business hotel with flexible venues and services which are aligned to the needs of our targeted customers,” said Mr. Jonathan Wigley, Chairman of Absolute Hotel Services India and CEO of Absolute Hotel Services Group. “We are very excited with this opportunity to manage and brand the Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad. Our brand essence, value for all occasions, will make our property relevant to market, we are certain that our customers will get the right deal for their purpose of visit whether for business or leisure.”

The 150-room Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad will consist of superior rooms, deluxe rooms and suites. Each room will offer guests the comfort of luxury bedding with full amenities including a LCD flat screen television, wired and Wi-Fi internet access, along with a work desk.

The family floor will be designed in a family friendly manner for travellers with children 12 years and below in mind. There will be a dedicated play room on the floor with toys, games and activities focused to younger children. Children focused amenities and services will include special TV/DVD entertainment, bathrobes, slippers, mini-bar selection, baby changing mats, use of strollers, milk warming equipment, shampoos and soaps. 24 hour baby-sitting services will also be available.

Eastin Hotel Ahmedabad will offer a signature restaurant serving multi ethnic cuisine and a café restaurant for breakfast and all day dining. Other leisure facilities include swimming pool with juice bar, a fitness center and spa with treatment rooms.

Conference and banquet facilities will cater for large meeting groups and social events with the latest audio visual technology in place for each purpose. A fully equipped business center with PC stations and internet access will also be available for guests.

Design Hotels launches ‘Winter Spaces’ Promotion

2010-11-24T07:47:00.001-08:00

Design Hotels has launched a ‘Winter Spaces’ promotion at over 60 of its member hotels.

The promotion gives those staying between 22 November 2010 and 3 April 2011 a free upgrade, a complimentary room night or save 10% off the Best Available Rate when booking through designhotels.com.

From the rooftop of Hotel La Renaissance in Marrakech to Nobis Hotel, a new hotel in Stockholm with lively public spaces open for visitors and locals, guests can rest assured they will have a one-of-a-kind experience. Other hotels include Wine & Spa Resort Loisium, a wine- themed hotel in Austria with its own vineyards, Wanderlust, a new quirky boutique hotel in Singapore with four floors designed by different design firms, and The Weinmeister, a city retreat for the creative crowd with Apple iMacs in every room.

The three different options are:

- 3 for 2: one complimentary overnight stay (minimum stay: three nights)
- Upgrade: free upgrade to the next available room category (minimum stay: two nights)
- Value: save a minimum of 10% off the Best Available Rate (minimum stay: two nights)

Citibank And Visa Launch Platinum Travel Prepaid Card

2010-11-22T16:55:00.000-08:00

Citibank and Visa have launched the Citibank World Money Visa Platinum Card, a Visa Platinum Travel Prepaid card that brings together the benefits of both Citibank’s best-in-class Travel Prepaid cards platform and Visa Platinum cards, for the first time.

Available in six foreign currencies - US$, Euro, Pound, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar and Singapore Dollar - at select Citibank branches and authorized money changers, the Citibank World Money Visa Platinum Card offers customers a host of privileges, ranging from discounted shopping at luxury brand outlets to exclusive offers at luxury hotels.

Designed to address the needs of leisure travelers as well as of those travelling abroad for medical, educational, or business purposes, the card offers customers a convenient way of carrying foreign currency.

Further differentiating the card are benefits such as industry-best foreign exchange rates, complimentary fraud protection insurance, complimentary international calling card and a 24X7 international toll-free customer care helpline.

Uttam Nayak, Country Manager, South Asia, Visa, said, “Over the years Visa has introduced a series of cards to help Indian consumers enjoy the convenience of electronic payments. In 2002, we partnered with Citibank to launch the Visa Travel Prepaid card in India, creating a new segment at the time. Now, we are pleased to announce the launch of the world’s first Visa Platinum Travel Prepaid card – the Citibank World Money Visa Platinum card, offering a single card to Indian travelers with the benefits of a travel prepaid card as well as the luxury benefits that come along with a Visa Platinum card. Keeping in mind the growing Indian traveler segment, Visa is confident that this card will open up yet another new segment as well as provide Indian travelers with some unique benefits they have been looking for.”

Sandeep Bhalla, Business Head, Credit Payment Products, Citibank India, said, “We take great pride in having been the first to launch a foreign currency denominated prepaid card in India in 2002 and are very pleased to build on its success with the launch of the Citibank World Money Visa Platinum Card. Travel is a focus area for Citi Cards and this new launch strengthens our end-to-end solution for the global Indian. With its enhanced features, the Card will not only provide customers a safe and hassle-free alternative to cash and travelers’ cheques; it will also delight the overseas traveler with its choice of lifestyle benefits.”

Mandarin Oriental Launches Global Gift Card

2010-11-21T22:57:00.000-08:00

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has launched a global Gift Card.

The Mandarin Oriental Gift Card is available in denominations ranging from US$ 50 to US$ 10,000, and can be redeemed for hotel accommodation, spa treatments, dining and more.

Mandarin Oriental Gift Cards can be purchased year round online, and at all Mandarin Oriental hotels worldwide. There is no expiry date, and the cards can be used at any participating Mandarin Oriental hotel regardless of the place of purchase. All cards are presented in an attractive gift folio and can also be delivered with a special personalised message to any location around the world.

“We are delighted to have been able to create the opportunity for our guests to offer the ‘gift’ of Mandarin Oriental globally, and hope the cards will be a treat to both give and to receive,” said Michael Hobson, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Mandarin Oriental Gift Cards are a natural extension of our luxury brand, offering flexibility and a range of delightful experiences in which to indulge worldwide.”

Imperial Hotel Tokyo Celebrates 120th Anniversary with Suite Promotion

2010-11-19T00:19:00.001-08:00

Tokyo’s legendary Imperial Hotel, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is celebrating its 120th anniversary with special rates on luxury suites.

The iconic landmark favoured by statesmen, royalty and celebrities is promoting Imperial Floor Junior Suites from JPY 60,000 for single occupancy, JPY 67,000 for couples and JPY 74,000 for three guests for bookings before 31 November 2010 on visits up to 31 March 2011.

The promotional rates are Inclusive of tax and service charge and include breakfast and complimentary use of the hotel pool, sauna, and fitness centre.

Opened in 1890 across the avenue from the Emperor's palace, the Imperial was for many decades the only fully European-style hotel in Tokyo. It was restyled in 1923 by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Overlooking the Imperial Palace grounds, the hotel still features the Old Imperial Bar, with Frank Lloyd Wright décor dating back to the 1920s, as well as a glamorous Frank Lloyd Wright suite.

Promotion @ Two New Tune Hotels

2010-11-14T18:40:00.001-08:00

Tune Hotels has opened bookings for its 2 new hotels in Bintulu, Sarawak that is slated for opening on 3 January 2011, and Kota Bharu, Kelantan that will open for business on 23 January 2011.

To celebrate the opening of the 2 brand new hotels, Tune Hotels is offering rooms from as low as 12 sen (RM0.12) for its Malaysian hotels; from Rp12,000 for its Bali hotels and from GBP25 for its London hotel.

The low rates are applicable for stay periods from 1 September – 30 November 2011 for all Tune Hotels’ existing hotels. For the new hotel in Bintulu promotional stay periods are from 3 January – 30 November 2011 while for Kota Bharu it is from 23 January – 30 November 2011.

The promotional rate is valid until 20 November 2010.

“Increasing the number of our hotels reiterates our commitment to increasing our network of hotels to have 100 hotels in major cities globally providing 5-star beds at incredible value and affordability. The introduction of the 101-room Bintulu hotel and 173 room Kota Bharu hotel will further add value to savvy travelers, both business and tourists alike, who are keen to adopt the pay-as-you-use concept we provide and for us to serve more people in our home of Malaysia,” said Mark Lankester, Group CEO of Tune Hotels. “2011 is the start of a great new year for us and our guests. We’ve kept focused on ensuring that we remain true to our guests and deliver great new hotels in great central locations at great prices. Kota Bharu and Bintulu are really exciting for us as one is the first Tune Hotel in Kelantan and the other is our second Tune Hotel in Sarawak.”

The opening of Bintulu and Kota Bharu brings Tune Hotels’ number of operating properties in Malaysia to 9, and 12 globally. Tune Hotels’ existing hotels in Malaysia are located in Kuala Lumpur, KLIA-LCCT Airport, Kota Damansara, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu; Kuta and Legian in Bali, Indonesia and one in London, England.

Centara Launches Phuket Promotion

2010-11-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

Centara Hotels & Resorts is offering a seven-night package with special benefits for guests staying at the Centara Villas Phuket, at Karon, or the Centara Sawaddi Resort Patong, at Patong Beach, during the winter season.

The Exotic Winter Sun Holidays package is available at either resort until 31 March 2011.

Benefits include a discounted room rate, daily buffet breakfast, roundtrip transfer from Phuket International Airport, complimentary dinner for two persons per room per stay, a bottle of sparkling wine, and 45-minute spa treatment massage at SPA Cenvaree for one person.

The room rates vary according to the season and type of room but begin at 31,360 Baht for seven nights at a Deluxe Villa at Centara Villas Phuket, and 26,565 Baht for seven nights in a Deluxe Room at the Centara Sawaddi Resort.

The rates include service charge and government tax and are on the basis of two persons per room. Complimentary room stay is available for up to two children under 12 years of age sharing their parents' room and bedding.

An extra bed per package is available at a cost of 7,000 Baht per adult or 3,500 Baht per child at Centara Villas Phuket, and 5,600 Baht per adult or 2,800 Baht per child at Centara Sawaddi Resort. The extra bed rates include breakfast and airport transfer.

The package is not applicable to group reservations and reservations for meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions. Other terms and conditions apply.

Aston Opens New Hotel in Jakarta

2010-11-03T21:14:00.001-07:00

Aston has expanded its portfolio of hotels in Indonesia with the opening of the Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel & Conference Center, Jakarta.

The Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel is a newly built international 4 star hotel located in the heart of CBD Serpong serving West Jakarta, Serpong and the Tangerang area’s growing business travel and conference market as well as domestic leisure travelers from the surrounding areas.

The hotel features 173 guest rooms and extensive meeting facilities that include a large ballroom with a capacity of up to 600 guests and 4 auxiliary meeting rooms.

Located just 25 minutes from Soekarno Hatta International Airport right next to Serpong’s Sumarecon Shopping Mall and Entertainment Complex, the Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel & Conference Center will fill an increasing need for quality accommodation and professional meeting facilities in the fast developing Tangerang regency.

Norbert Vas, VP Sales & Marketing Aston International said, “The Aston Paramount Serpong Hotel & Conference Center is our fifth hotel in the greater Jakarta area and will enable us to offer guests an outstanding business hotel and conference center complimented by a variety of facilities within the hotel complex and adjacent mall making it a perfect alternative to expensive inner city venues.”

Eaton Hotel Hong Kong Rebrands as Eaton Smart, Hong Kong

2010-11-01T19:07:00.001-07:00

The Eaton Hotel Hong Kong has rebranded as the Eaton Smart, Hong Kong.

As part of the rebranding. the hotel has spent over HK$10 million on refurbishing its lobby which includes a new reception, retail shop, internet portal and indoor and outdoor bar areas.

Wherever possible, organic elements have been introduced as part of the look and feel of the lobby, supporting Eaton’s commitment to sustainability. The introduction of a 6 metre high by 8 metre wide internal vertical green wall is an example with this new feature being one of Hong Kong’s largest indoor vertical walls within a hotel. The green wall features 3600 Sansevieria trifasciata – Mother in law’s tongue or Snake plants. These large leaf plants were specifically chosen to assist with improving indoor air quality through photosynthesis which reduces the velocity of mechanical air handling and the subsequent energy required to drive the air handling units.

The lobby also features another sustainable material which is Bamboo walling and flooring. Bamboo can easily and quickly be re-grown in a reasonably short time and is typically harvested every four to five years without actually destroying the plant. In addition, because of its resiliency, bamboo doesn't have to be refinished as often as hardwood. This cuts down on the chemicals necessary to maintain the floor.

Guests and visitors can enjoy viewing the new green wall while they relax in the newly refurbished T Garden which is Eaton’s new outdoor bar and dining area. Both areas are located on level L of the hotel.

The new Eaton Smart 4th floor lobby features the following outlet:

- T Bar: The social hub of the hotel, offering tea, coffee, beers, wines, cocktails and innovative bar snacks.

- T Garden: Your oasis in the middle of Jordan offering ice cold local and imported beers, seasonal crisp rose, white and red wines. Thirst quenching mojitos and a selection of food platters.

- Essentials: A retail outlet offering everything you need with a selection of travel essentials and snacks.

- E Point: Easily accessible PC’s (and printer) with free internet access for casual use by in-house guests.

- Metro Lounge: A soothing environment to relax and entertain whether it be a breakfast meeting, light lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. Enjoy loose leafed teas and herbal tisanes along with draft beers, classic cocktails and boutique wines.

Sofitel Luxury Hotels Expanding Portfolio in Asia Pacific

2010-10-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

Sofitel Luxury Hotels has unveiled plans to expand its network across Asia Pacific, with the addition of eight new hotels. The hotels which will open in 2010-2011, include:

• Sofitel Dongguan Humen Oriental (China - August 2010)
• Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra (Cambodia - December 2010)
• Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich (China - Spring 2011)
• Sofitel Qingdao Garden (China - Spring 2011)
• Sofitel Mumbai BKC (India - Spring 2011)
• Sofitel Shanghai Jing’an (China - Spring 2011)
• Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit (Thailand - Fall 2011)
• Sofitel So Bangkok (Thailand - Fall 2011)

Commenting on the rapid expansion of Sofitel Luxury Hotels in South East Asia and India, Christophe Caron, Vice President of Sofitel Luxury Hotels South East Asia and India said, “Sofitel Luxury Hotels has gained momentum and recognition in the region. With four new hotels between 2010-2011 in South East Asia and India, as well as two more under development in India in 2012 (namely Sofitel Mumbai Muland and Sofitel So Mumbai), Sofitel Luxury Hotels will further reinforce its strong positioning for both leisure and business travelers.”

Since the announcement three years ago of its move upscale, more than 80 hotels have left the Sofitel Luxury Hotels network from the original count of over 200 hotels. Together with the introduction of two sister brands, Sofitel Legend in 2009 and Sofitel So in 2010, Accor believes that Sofitel Luxury Hotels is now in a strong position to surpass expectations of those that are looking for the ultimate in luxury.

“The French origin is in our brand DNA,” explained Markland Blaiklock, Senior Vice President of Sofitel Luxury Hotels Asia Pacific. “We enhance the experience with our know-how complimented by our French connections and the best of local culture. This is apparent in the importance we place on design, working with world renowned designers and integrating elements of the local culture.”

ITB Asia 2010 Opens in Singapore

2010-10-25T20:53:00.001-07:00

ITB Asia 2010 opened in Singapore on Wednesday.

Exhibitor numbers at the three-day B2B travel show organized by Messe Berlin (Singapore) are up 6% on last year, with growth in the travel industry reflecting much improved economic growth figures and demand in Asia.

“There is a real sense of new growth and consumer optimism once again in Asia,” said Mr Raimund Hosch, CEO of Messe Berlin. “At ITB Asia we can see that in increased demand for floor space and more companies positioning themselves to get a bigger part of meetings business within the travel industry.”

Mr. Hosch told a press conference on the opening day of the third ITB Asia that the show this year was characterized by five themes: exhibitor growth, better quality buyers, a much greater MICE (meetings) industry profile, the importance of Egypt as a partner country, and the fact that ITB Asia, with its broad appeal to multiple sectors of the travel industry, was now attracting other travel events to start up alongside ITB Asia.

ITB Asia 2010 has attracted 720 exhibitor organizations. This represents a 6% increase on last year when there were 679 exhibitors. There is representation from 60 countries, the same number as last year.

This year, ITB Asia has attracted 62 national and regional government tourist organizations. This is up from 54 last year.

New attendees this year include the Moscow Exhibition and Convention Agency, Israel, the Korean National Tourism Organization, the Moroccan Government Tourist Office, the Nagasaki Prefecture Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and the Tourism Administration of Guangdong Province in the People’s Republic of China.

On the aviation side exhibitors include IATA, Qatar Airways, THAI Airways International, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, Vietnam Airlines and LAN Airlines from Chile.

Greater MICE Appeal

The 2010 edition of ITB Asia has introduced Association Day. The ‘day’ includes special events, networking and discussions spread over three days of ITB Asia. The objective is to empower the travel industry in Asia to attract more association events. These occur when professionals such as doctors, scientists, researchers, chemists and insurance executives convene for their annual, bi-annual or four-yearly association meetings.

Some 94 association and travel industry professionals have signed up for the inaugural Association Day at ITB Asia. Important association meeting organisations have combined to make Association Day a reality, including, the International Congress and Convention Association, ASAE – The Center for Association Leadership, the Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau and professional convention organizer, ace:daytons direct.

One outcome is that the percentage of MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) travel buyers at ITB Asia this year has increased from 32% to 43%.

Improved Travel Buyers

This year Messe Berlin (Singapore) management is emphasizing the advances in the quality control of its 580 hosted buyers at ITB Asia.

“The quality and relevance of buyer-seller interaction is the foundation of nearly everything we do at ITB Asia,” said Hosch. “Therefore, this year we introduced an even more stringent vetting system for buyers.”

He said that this year buyers had to be recommended either by exhibitors or by other established high quality buyers who could vouch for the professionalism and relevance of the proposed hosted buyer.

Buyers who performed well at ITB Asia in 2008 and 2009 were also invited back. A staggered invitation process meant that a more balanced geographical market mix among buyers was achieved.

Summarising ITB Asia 2010 on its opening day, Mr Hosch said, “ITB Asia in only three years has grown to be more than twice the size of its long-established competitor events. We have a very effective team based in Asia and great partnerships with Singapore and beyond. As CEO of Messe Berlin, I am optimistic that ITB Asia will continue to grow and attract quality participants as the trade show for the Asian travel market.”

Eforea first step in Hilton reimaging

2010-10-23T02:13:00.000-07:00

Hilton Hotels and Resorts’ launch of a new branded spa product, Eforea, is part of the company’s five-year strategy that will reimage every aspect of the Hilton brand—including rooms, lobbies and restaurants, according to Dave Horton, global head of the Hilton brand.

Horton and Tyra Lowman, senior director of spa for Hilton, provided additional details on the Eforea product.

He said the company is considering other “turnkey” initiatives, including lobby, food and beverage and technology concepts. Hilton will consider creating its own restaurant brand, Horton said. “We are developing a number of restaurant concepts,” he said.

Also, a global room re-design is underway with prototypes already in place at company headquarters in McLean, Virginia.

As far as Eforea, Horton said the next location will be in Melbourne, Australia, with others following quickly in Pattaya, Thailand, and in the Maldives. Horton said 83 hotels—a mixture of new Hiltons and conversions—have committed to implementing the Eforea product. That effort will make Eforea “one of the fastest growing spa products in the world,” he said.

Horton said that while Eforea will be made available to Doubletree by Hilton (doubletree1.hilton.com/) and Embassy Suites (embassysuites1.hilton.com) properties, there will only be “a smattering” of those.

Integration of signature items and amenities

Lowman said each spa will look different depending on the hotel but that core signature items would be part of every spa. While there will be set menus for spa treatments and products, 10% of spa services and products will be customizable to the location. “We couldn’t have an Eforea in Thailand without offering Thai massage,” she said.

Resort properties will be required to have 10 treatment rooms while urban locations will need to have six. There will be an option to open the spas to day visitors.

The products with which Eforea is partnering will not be placed in guestroom bathrooms at this point, but the company also is coming up with a concept for those in-room products.

Horton said that it is a good time to invest in a product like Eforea because “good spa can drive value and RevPAR.”

“Spas will drive choice to Hilton and add cachet to HHonors (loyalty program),” he said.

Spa bookings will be integrated into the hotel PMS, according to Lowman, and will be bookable at the front desk. The company is using the SpaBooker management system.

As for the turnkey aspect, Horton said that Hilton would do the training, staffing and purchasing of products for Eforea. The owner will pay for installation and management fees. The cost of installing an Eforea spa, he said, would vary widely depending on the size of the spa and the number of modules installed.

Horton said Hilton is in the process of creating a separate spa concept for the Conrad brand but had not yet discussed doing so for the Waldorf-Astoria brand.

With all these initiatives underway, Horton said, “We look at ourselves as a 91-year-old company that is acting like a start-up.”

Etihad Airways launches Multiflyer Promotion

2010-10-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

Etihad Airways has launched ‘Etihad Multiflyer’, an offer that has been designed specifically for frequent travellers to the GCC, Middle East and North Africa.

The new deal, which incentivises customers to book multiple trips with the airline, offers a number of benefits, including:

- savings of up to 40% on fares in Coral Economy class or Pearl Business class;
- complimentary upgrades to Diamond First class or Pearl Business class;
- direct entry to Gold or Silver status on the airline’s award-winning loyalty program Etihad Guest, offering a world of immediate rewards; and
- full flexibility in changing destinations and travel dates at any time prior to flight.

The Etihad Multiflyer campaign is now on sale for residents living in the UAE, Muscat, Bahrain, Dammam, Riyadh, Kuwait, Beirut, Amman and Damascus and is valid for sale until 31 December for all travel to be completed by 31 May 2011.

“Etihad is always looking for ways to offer our customers a range of innovative offers and valuable travel benefits throughout the year - and we are particularly focused on rewarding our frequent travellers,” said Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer. “This campaign will stimulate demand amongst business travellers as well as GCC citizens and expatriates visiting their family and friends, while also offering our guests the opportunity to experience Etihad’s premium cabins and higher tier benefits of our loyalty program, Etihad Guest.”

Hyatt Doubles Down On Chinese Hotel Development

2010-10-17T02:13:00.000-07:00

Hyatt Hotels Corp. this week announced management agreements that double its pipeline in China, bringing its total number of properties under development in the country to 22.

Properties announced this week include Hyatt Regency hotels in Changbaishan, Changchun, Guiyang, Jinan, Qingdao, Tianjin East and Wenzhou; Grant Hyatt properties in Dalian, Sanya Haitang Bay and Shenyang; and a Park Hyatt in Changbaishan. Hyatt currently has 17 hotels in China, which include properties in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, making it the country with the second-highest number of Hyatt properties behind the United States.

"Our goal is to increase customer preference for Hyatt by expanding the presence of all of our brands in emerging Chinese cities and resort destinations," according to Nong Xia, Hyatt's senior vice president real estate and development in China.

Of the 22 properties in Hyatt's China pipeline, four are scheduled to open next year: a Park Hyatt in Ningbo and Hyatt Regency properties in Jinan, Guiyang and Qingdao.

Red Planet Boost for Tune Hotels in Asia

2010-10-16T02:23:00.000-07:00

The number of rooms emerging Asian hotel investment company, Red Planet Hotels, has under construction surged past 1,000 this week, fuelled by the injection of fresh investment capital.

The company is developing a portfolio of Tune hotels in China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Bangladesh. Red Planet already has 1,023 hotel rooms through six hotels in Jakarta, Bangkok, Pattaya, Angeles City and two in Manila, with more announcements expected soon.

All Red Planet-owned hotels operate under a franchise agreement with Tune Hotels. Tune Hotels is part of the Tune Group, the private investment group of Tony Fernandes, founder and Group CEO of low cost airline AirAsia and Team Principal of the Lotus F1 Racing team.

"We are very pleased to be extending our portfolio in Asia," said Group CEO of Tune Hotels, Mark Lankester. "It is right where we need to be and we are delighted that our partner Red Planet has kicked off its expansion plans as it will provide for great economies of scale and most importantly add value to accommodation for consumers and travellers."

Tune Hotels is a rapidly growing chain of hotels that have embraced the limited service model used by low cost airlines and employs a self-service online booking system encouraging guests to book early to enjoy low prices.

Using the demand-based pricing booking system, guests can book rooms at prices starting from US$3 (or even lower during promotion periods).

It currently operates ten hotels, seven in Malaysia, two in Indonesia and one in England and has entered into strategic partnerships to open 20 hotels in India and a further 14 hotels in the United Kingdom.

Napasai Samui launches Golf Promotions

2010-10-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

The secluded Orient-Express beachside hideaway Napasai on Thailand’s tropical island of Koh Samui is offering three-night packages for couples with a passion for golf, starting from USD 329++ per room per night, with green fees costing an extra USD 95++.

The island is one of Thailand’s newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun nine hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club.

Dinner and daily breakfast for two plus round trip airport transfers are included in what the resort has named the ‘Great Affordable’ package.

The ‘Golf Package’ at USD 424++ includes the same complimentary extras, plus a round of golf for two including caddie and cart, with sports massages and golf course transfers. Both packages are valid for a year.

Napasai has expanded its private beach which now features a grill restaurant serving fresh local seafood in two outdoor tropical wooden salas.

The beach also sees the addition of a floating pontoon, allowing arrival and departure by boat, and easy guest access to the myriad idyllic offshore islands for swimming and snorkelling and scuba diving.

Also new for the resort, is the new cocktail and yoga deck offering panoramic ocean and island views with relaxing treatments, massages and pampering rituals rooted in traditional Thai medicine, local herbs and Oriental healing philosophies.

Holistic treatments offered on the spa menu combine natural ingredients such as tropical fruits and flowers to balance physical and psychological well-being and Pala Energy body massage to encourage energy flow.

At cottages featuring private terraces, new facilities include flat-screen televisions and iPod docks, and stylish Jim Thompson silk and cotton fabrics. Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access is also available throughout the resort.

Napasai offers 34 Sea View Cottages, 11 Beachfront Cottages, eight Garden Cottage Suites, two exclusive Beachfront Cottage Suites with direct access to the beach and 14 private pool beachfront residences for sale or rental, with access to their own private beach.

Rates quoted above are subject to tax and service charge and applicable only to double occupancy. Terms and conditions apply.

Travel forecast, Expedia’s philosophy and more

2010-10-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

As the International Society of Hospitality Consultants began looking toward the second decade of the 21st century, members in attendance at the group’s annual conference heard some interesting observations regarding where the travel-and-tourism industry is heading.

Approximately 150 consultants attended the event at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort and Spa, and opening day speakers addressed the conference’s “New Decade: New Ideas” theme.

“It really is an amazing period of time we’ve been through,” said conference chair Sean Hennessey, CEO of Lodging Advisors. “The pace of change and what you need to know to be successful keeps changing.”

Mike Reichartz, VP Market Management, Expedia

Reichartz told the consultants that Expedia does not dictate pricing to hotels.

“We have never told a hotel that they must price here. That’s not what we do,” he said. “All we’re here to do is to share with hotels what we see in the marketplace.”

Notable trends from Expedia data include:

    * Travelers in the United States, European Union and the United Kingdom are trading down while more are trading up in Australia and Japan.
    * Thirty-four percent of Expedia’s largest corporate clients said they expect to allocate more funds to their travel budgets next year (4 percent said they would reduce their budgets). Last year it was 13 percent and 9 percent, respectively.
    * While the company is seeing corporate rates starting to increase, the average year-over-year length of stay was down 4.5 percent in August.

Reichartz said the importance of social media can’t be overstated in the travel industry.

“Everything is about user-generated content now,” he said. “User-generated content has leveled the playing field against the brand name.”

Reichartz said Expedia is starting to see signs of airline capacity returning.

“Hotels figured out how important and how relevant airlines are,” he said. “What we really want is healthy competition among profitable carriers.”

Peter Yesawich, chairman and CEO, Ypartnership

Yesawich pointed to technology as one of the key elements reshaping the travel-and-leisure business. In 1996, 11 percent of households had access to Internet at home, but that has reached 70 percent today. Furthermore, 80 percent of the households that travel have Internet access at home, he said.

Therefore, “there is a culture of impatience now among consumers,” because of the instant gratification that the Internet provides, Yesawich said.

Yesawich said the penetration of the Internet in America as it relates to travel planning flat lined three years ago. It has held steady in the 56 percent to 57 percent range for the past three years, he said.

According to Ypartnership’s annual study, 87 percent of respondents rank being able to check lowest fares/rates as the top reason to use the Internet for travel purposes—the 10th straight year it has been No. 1.

“With the advent of the Great Recession this has become more pronounced,” Yesawich said.

Other top reasons travelers use the Internet: easy-to-use booking feature (74 percent) and photos of rooms/facilities (72 percent).

Meta search engines—sites such as kayak.com, yapta.com and dealbase.com that enable users to enter search criteria once and access several search engines simultaneously—during the past 18 months is having a profound effect on the travel business, according to Yesawich. Twenty percent of all travelers use this type of site, and the number is growing.

The increasing popularity of private sale sites and collective buying sites—think jetsetter.com, sniqueaway.com, groupon.com and tripalertz.com—could further change booking habits at hotels and other travel-related business, Yesawich said. Groupon.com will achieve a billion dollars in revenue on the Internet faster than any previous company, he added.

Yesawich specifically pointed to tripalertz.com, a collective buying site, as one that could change the hotel industry. The general concept is that the more people that book rooms through the site, the lower the price goes.

“Do you think this will hit the meeting side of the hotel business? Well, buckle up,” he said.

One result of the increased reliance on the Internet is that for the first time in 18 years of measurement, brand recognition in hotels is important to less than 50 percent of the survey’s respondents. It fell to 44 percent in 2009.

“Rate now trumps brand in the hotel business,” Yesawich said. “As it turns out, free Internet trumps brand names. As prices become more transparent, brand clarity becomes more urgent.”

As a result of all of this, Yesawich had some not-so-good news for hoteliers: “There will be no pricing power in the market in 2011. Value is vogue. The consumers have the toys, the wherewithal and the desire to find the right places. Consumers aren’t angry, they’re resourceful.”

He added that 2011 will be a year of trading down. The primary way people traded down this year was to reduce the length of their stay, and Yesawich said he expects that trend to continue.

“The biggest challenge in the hotel business today is recapturing that lost night,” he said. “Half of the vacations this year will be weekend trips.”

Humberto Rivero, regional director, the Americas for the International Air Transport Association

IATA, which represents airlines in all countries except Cuba and North Korea, has been surprised by the rate of economic recovery, Rivero said.

“We did not expect the recovery to be so fast and so furious,” he said. “We were prepared for a long ‘L,’ not a ‘V.’”

The association projected profitability for the global airline industry to be USD 8 billion to USD 8.5 billion during 2010 and approximately USD 2.5 billion during 2011.

“There is a flattening out of the business internationally,” he said. “There is a slowing down of traffic.”

The good news for travelers is that during the first quarter of 2011, nearly 1,400 airplanes will come into service—many of those will be new planes rather than the reintroduction of planes that have been parked in the Mojave Desert for the past few years, he said.

“There is a concern, especially in Europe, that there might be too much too soon,” Rivero said. “The outlook looks good, but we’re getting concerned that capacity is coming back, but the bookings and passengers are slowing down.”

Hotel Okura becomes majority owner of JAL Hotels

2010-10-03T20:28:00.001-07:00

Hotel Okura Co., Ltd. has completed the acquisition of 79.6% of the issued and outstanding shares of JAL Hotels from JAL International, based on that certain share transfer agreement, executed on 6 August.

In addition, a set of candidates for the position of representative director was approved at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting for JAL Hotels, and a board of directors’ meeting, each of which was held on 30 September 30. Mr. Marcel P. van Aelst, who is and shall be concurrently serving as the Executive Director and Managing Corporate Executive Officer of Hotel Okura Co., Ltd. and President and General Manager of Hotel Okura Amsterdam B.V.

Pan Pacific Loses Hotel in Bangkok

2010-10-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

Pan Pacific Hotels Group today confirmed that its agreement to operate the popular Pan Pacific Bangkok hotel in Thailand until the end of 2010 won't be renewed.

The group has managed the hotel, owned by Ramaland Development, under the Pan Pacific brand since 1995. Ramaland Development is owned by Kajima Corporation Japan.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group will still operate the Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Bangkok, which opened earlier this year, on Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55.

“We have had a great relationship with Ramaland Development Co. Ltd the last 15 years and we wish them every success with the property,” said A. Patrick Imbardelli, President and CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group. “We will be strongly pursuing new opportunities for our brands in Bangkok and Thailand. We are confident of the long term prospects of this amazing country and it will not be long before we find that brand-defining and brand-relevant hotel for us.”

A source at Ramaland Development today admitted to ASIA Travel Tips.com that an "international brand" company had already been appointed to manage the property, but that an official announcement will only be made next week.

The Pan Pacific Bangkok is one of the best hotels in the colourful city, and has a very strong Japanese following thanks, in part, to its very lose proximity to Thaniya Plaza.

Wyndham Opens Ramada Hotel in Bangkok

2010-09-28T23:47:00.000-07:00

Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest hotel company’s with nearly 7,200 hotels and 12 brands, has opened the Ramada Hotel & Suites Bangkok.

Owned by Sookjai Condominium Co. Ltd, a subsidiary of the Kokar group of companies, the 11-storey hotel features spacious studio and suite accommodations. The larger suite accommodations are particularly well-suited for extended-stay business travelers looking for apartment-size accommodations.

Additional amenities include complimentary continental breakfast, a full-service restaurant and bar, fitness center, business center and large outdoor pool and garden.

“Bangkok continues to be an important and growing market that offers great opportunity for Wyndham Hotel Group and its brands,” said Ken Greene, Wyndham Hotel Group president and managing director, Asia Pacific. “The addition of this newest hotel not only helps to further anchor our presence in Thailand but serves as a wonderful compliment to our growing managed portfolio.”

Located just five minutes from Sukhumvit Road, the Ramada Hotel & Suites Bangkok provides guests with the convenience of a central location while still offering peace and tranquility.

“It is with great excitement that we launch the Ramada Hotel and Suites Bangkok, the first of two projects with Wyndham Hotel Group,” said Charoen Kokar (Timmy), director of the Kokar group of companies. “We are confident that business travelers and discerning holiday makers alike will be drawn to the hotel’s unique value proposition: a sanctuary in the heart of Sukhumvit with a strong product and service offering. With a combined room total of about 400 rooms, we are looking forward to a successful relationship with Ramada, given its knowledge and expertise.”

The Ramada Hotel & Suites Bangkok (Soi 12) is one of the four managed Ramada hotels set to open in Thailand by 2012. Agreements have already been signed on the 8-storey Ramada Encore Bangkok (Soi 10), a new-build property located in the Sukhumvit area; the 37- storey Ramada Hotel Bangkok (Soi 23), located close to the Asok BTS sky train station; as well as the 7-storey Ramada Plaza Bangkok (Soi 15), also owned by Sookjai Condominium Co. Ltd. in the Sukhumvit area.

While the four properties are the company’s first managed hotels in Thailand, Wyndham Hotel Group has a managed portfolio of nearly 30 properties around the globe, including the 588-room Wyndham Xiamen in Xiamen, China; the 600-room Rio Mar Beach Resort and Spa – A Wyndham Grand Resort in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico; and the 162-room Wyndham Grand London Chelsea Harbour in London.

Ramada Worldwide, a member of the Wyndham Hotel Group family of lodging brands, is a global chain of more than 900 midscale and upscale hotels featuring single, double and suite accommodations.

Accor Hotels in Bangkok and King Power launch Duty Free Shopping Promotion

2010-09-24T02:51:00.000-07:00

Accor has partnered with King Power Duty Free to launch a “Shop in Bangkok” promotion, where guests receive up to THB 1,000 Duty Free voucher to shop at King Power Duty Free, and also stand a chance to win part of a THB 1,000,000 shopping prize pool.

“Accor hotels in Bangkok are joining forces with King Power Duty Free to boost traffic and give travelers one more reason to choose Bangkok for their next trip,” said Oswald Pichler, Vice President of Operations for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos. “We anticipate that this promotional campaign will help stimulate tourism and showcase Bangkok as one of the top shopping destinations in the region.”

The “Shop in Bangkok” package includes one night accommodation at a participating Accor hotel with a King Power Duty Free shopping voucher valued at THB 500 when staying at Bangkok’s Grand Mercure, ibis, all seasons hotels or Le Fenix Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok; or a THB 1,000 voucher at Pullman Bangkok King Power, VIE Hotel Bangkok, Grand Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok Hotel Lotus Sukhumvit, Chateau de Bangkok or Bangkok’s 3 Novotel hotels.

Bookings are available until 14 December 2010, for stays before 15 December 2010. The voucher can be redeemed at the King Power Duty Free at King Power Complex downtown.

Taj determination on display at Palace reopening

2010-09-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

When the iconic Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai recently reopened the doors to its restored Palace wing, it was a momentous occasion not only for Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, but also for the hospitality industry in India.

Indian Hotels Company Limited, the Tata Group firm that owns Taj hotels, saw an opportunity in the adverse situation, which arose after the property was severely damaged during the November 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai. The heritage wing of 107-year-old Taj Mahal Palace reopened on India’s Independence Day. The group said it has fulfilled the promise of rebuilding the Taj to its former glory.

An extensive restoration was carried out by established players Lissoni Associati, Milan; BAMO, San Francisco; DesignWilkes, Malaysia; and James Park Associates, Singapore. The Art Life Restoration Trust in Delhi also played a significant part in the refurbishment.

Misra said this re-interpretation of the historical rooms and suites ensure an unforgettable experience that encapsulates a slice of history, romance, legend and fable, along with the highest standard of luxury for the guest.

The enhanced service in the Palace wing consists of a new arrival experience in Jaguars, butler service for all guests, an upgraded sleep experience, an upgraded bath experience, all-day Palace lounge service with complimentary hot beverages, and a leisure experience and heritage experience, according to Misra.

“During the restoration planning process, we have reached sensitive and appropriate solutions for all the areas, which will provide a guest experience offering the utmost in luxury and comfort, while always respecting the provenance of the heritage building,” he said. “Most certainly, with a building of this stature, with so many of its original architectural features intact, there was no shortage of inspiration, and this has resulted in an interior of appropriate refinement and elegance, achieved within the framework of the buildings’ recognizable idiosyncrasies.”

The interiors are unmistakably classical in origin, Misra said, while a strong sense of place is conveyed in the antiques and artifacts of the public spaces, and, more subtly, in the artwork, accent fabrics and pattern language of the guestrooms and suites.

“The design schemes are quite timeless, neither overly historic nor trendy,” he said. “The public areas reflect the formality and grandeur of the original building’s design, providing appropriate comfort within a formal framework of layout and detail. The guestrooms have a more relaxed, residential ambience, yet through their architectural details they never lose their formal background. Even though there have been many cosmetic changes over the years, the formality and grandeur of the original building’s design is unmistakable. The look of solid strength of the exterior shell gives the subsequent interior spaces a welcoming, protected feel—perfect for a hotel, acting as one’s home away from home.”

While the attack of November 2008 made for a difficult experience, the hotel resumed services in the Tower wing within days of the events.

“For the reopening of the Palace wing, we took this as an opportunity to make changes and up gradations to the standard of service, rooms and other amenities. Thus, now the Palace wing is rejuvenated to cater to today’s discerning guest, who is looking for understated luxury with an upgraded business technology experience,” Misra said.

Last year on 26 November, The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel, Mumbai staff and their families held a remembrance meeting that paid respects to those who were killed. There were multifaith prayers held for peace and harmony.

R K Krishna Kumar, vice chairman, Indian Hotels Company, said that the group lived in a shadow of catastrophe. “It was an astonishing blow to us when 31 precious lives were lost on the property,” he said after the incident.

The group believes its efforts will go a long way to ensure Taj can enhance its customer acquisition and retention rate. It spent around USD 45 million, and the number of suites has been reduced from 45 to 42. The Palace will still be the luxury arm—rooms will start at USD 435 published rate and suites will start at $1630. The Presidential suite will be around USD 13,000.

In May, Taj reported that it incurred a consolidated net loss of USD 29.8 million in 2009-10 compared to a net profit of USD 2.6 million a year ago, owing to slowdown in its domestic and international businesses. Net sales, during the period, declined 6% to USD 534 million. Closure of the Palace wing is partially responsible for the decline.

Hotel Soul in Suzhou launches Promotion

2010-09-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

Travellers can enjoy a Premier King bedroom at the new Hotel Soul in Suzhou for a special rate of RMB458 per night inclusive of service charge from 17 September to 10 October, 2010.

The package includes complimentary breakfast for two, shuttle bus service, free use of fitness centre, late check-out until 2pm (subject to room availability), 20 percent discount for patronage in all food and beverage outlets and 25 percent discount on laundry service.

Set amidst the canals and gardens of the ancient city of Suzhou, rooms at the 225-room Hotel Soul feature a flat-screen television, digital safe and access to wireless internet service. Each room is also appointed with signature amenities.

The hotel’s restaurant, Brasserie 101 is located on the first floor, and offers an extensive buffet breakfast and all-day à la carte menu.

A spacious sunning terrace and rooftop garden provide a perfect venue for relaxation while the hotel’s health club is equipped with fitness and weight-training equipment. Guests could also recharge and revive with a fresh vegetable or fruit juice boost at the iSpace Juice Bar.

Conveniently located near two science parks and central to the main business district of Suzhou, Hotel Soul is equipped with a serviced business centre and meeting rooms.

Hotel Soul is a member of Époque Hotels and is managed and operated by Hong Kong-based hospitality group, GR8 Leisure Concept Ltd, creator of the Hong Kong boutique hotel, The Luxe Manor as well as serviced apartments Knight on Wyndham in Central, Hong Kong.

Eastin Hotel Makkasan in Bangkok launches Express Link Promotion

2010-09-19T03:26:00.000-07:00

The Eastin Hotel Makkasan, Bangkok launched an Express Link Value Promotion available till 31 October 2010.

The package starts from Baht 2,999 net for a superior room and Baht 3,199 net for a deluxe per room per night with a minimum 2-night stay. The deal includes:

• Accommodation
• Roundtrip Airport Link Ticket for 1 person
• Roundtrip transfer to / from Airport Link Makkasan Station for 1 person
• Free WiFi and in-room internet access
• Daily breakfast (6:00 am to 11:30 am)

Rates quoted are inclusive of 10 percent service charge and applicable government taxes.

The Eastin Hotel Makkasan, Bangkok is located on Makkasan road with access to New Petchburi Road or Rachprarob and close to many well known shopping centers such as the Platinum Mall, Central World and Siam Paragon.

Hotel Ritz Madrid Celebrates Centenary with Promotion and Events

2010-09-09T01:42:00.000-07:00

On October, 2nd 2010, the Hotel Ritz Madrid will mark its centenary, having provided guests with a luxurious and elegant base from which to explore Spain’s vibrant capital city for ten decades. Madrileños love to celebrate and the Ritz Madrid is no exception, with a year-long schedule of events and parties planned.

As part of the centenary offering, Hotel Ritz Madrid has created a special accommodation package offering guests a rate of 100 Euros for the first night of their stay, when booking a minimum three-night stay. The package is subject to availability, includes a daily buffet breakfast and will be available from 1 October 2010 until September 2011 (excluding 28 December – 1 January). Rates for a classic room are priced from 535 Euros per room, per night.

Over the past 100 years, Hotel Ritz Madrid has been at the forefront of innovation in fine dining. To pay homage to his predecessors, executive chef Jorge Gonzales, will re-create a selection of dishes from the Goya Restaurant that reflect the evolution of cooking styles throughout the century. Iconic dishes, such as the Beef Tenderloin Centre Périgueux that was served for New Year’s Dinner on 1936, will take guests on a gastronomical journey from 1910 to the present day.

To kick off a year-long calendar of celebratory events, Hotel Ritz Madrid will host celebrated Spanish songstress, Olga Maria Ramos, for several performances in October. Also scheduled for 2010 is a special Christmas gift for Madrid residents over the age of 100 years, who will be invited to the Hotel Ritz for an afternoon tea party, featuring a specially created birthday cake.

Celebrations will continue well into 2011, with the hotel hosting a 1920’s themed flapper carnival party in February and also sponsoring the Madrid Masters Golf Championship in May 2011.

Originally the brainchild of King Alfonso XIII, who noticed a distinct lack of luxury accommodation in Madrid at the time of his wedding, the Hotel Ritz Madrid was created to satisfy the tastes of the most distinguished and discerning travellers and was designed and built under the personal supervision of legendary hotelier, Cesar Ritz.

The inauguration gala of 1902 was a grand occasion attended by the Spanish royal family including King Alfonso XIII, Queen Ena, the royal mother and Prime Minister Canalejas.

The hotel is one of the original grand luxury hotels of Europe and an architectural treasure, exemplary of the Belle Époque era. It continues to play host to kings, prime ministers, aristocrats, movie stars, authors and painters, such as Nelson Mandela, The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Yasser Arafat, Jennifer Lopez, Princess Diana and Prince Charles, Salvador Dali, George Clooney, Richard Gere, Tom Ford, and Penelope Cruz.

Hotel Fort Canning in Singapore to Open next October 2010

2010-09-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

Fort Canning Park’s heritage as an exclusive and historical landmark is being revived with the opening of a fashionable boutique hotel, Hotel Fort Canning (Hfc) next October 2010.

Nestled between Orchard Road, the Clarke Quay entertainment hub and Central Business District, Hotel Fort Canning features a collection of 86 rooms and suites.

Once used as a base for the British Far East Command during World War II, the property, which has been sensitively restored by award-winning Singapore architectural company, DP Architects, maintains a sense of the old style colonial glamour with many original features including a multi-columned façade.

Both rooms and suites are complemented by a selection of award-winning furniture from Poltrona Frau amongst others. The bathroom features eco-friendly amenities from award-winning THANN Spa.

THANN Sanctuary at Hfc is the brand’s first venture outside of its homeland, Thailand. The spa, set within the very modern 2-storey glass block, will offer a wide range of spa treatments based on THANN’s art of natural therapy.

Other facilities include a gym which features the latest state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment and two full-sized swimming pools filled with mineral water treated by a ‘state-of-the-art’ system, eliminating the smell and the health problems associated with chlorine.

Conference and catering facilities in the park setting are highlighted by the 460-seater Legends Ballroom and 230-seater Lavender Ballroom with contemporary lighting and audio-visual equipment. Both Ballrooms can be partitioned into smaller function rooms for meetings and dining.

The ‘Battle Box’ World War II bunker where General Percival surrendered Singapore to the Japanese on 15 February 1942 is now available for pre-event/functions.

Food and beverage at the hotel is highlighted by an all-day “modern Asian” bistro - The Glass House. The bistro features the best from cuisines across the region including Japan, China, Korea, Thailand and Singapore. It has views of the park and an open kitchen where diners can see the food prepared. Signature dishes include “customised” Laksa, Hainanese Chicken Rice and hand-crafted deli sandwiches.

24-hour in-room dining is also available, served in quirky traditional handmade wooden tiffins, celebrating Singapore heritage and home-spun style. A “mini-bar vending machine” will also be available for guests wishing to fill their mini fridge with premium drinks and snacks. For guest adjusting to time differences, a Private Lounge is also open 24-hours daily.

Other epicurean delights at the hotel include Gattopardo from Singapore based Garibaldi Group, which serves contemporary Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with a charcoal grill and wood-fired oven for baking gourmet pizzas.

The restaurant also runs Tisettanta Lounge, which specialises in Italian inspired cocktails with flavours such as fresh herbs, tangy citrus, aromatic nuts and rich chocolate, healthy detoxifying remedies and drinks inspired by top Italian designers.

The hotel’s special opening rates start from Sin$ 275++ for a deluxe room and is valid till the end of 2010.

Hotel Fort Canning is a 5 minute walk from Orchard Road, and 10 minute stroll from Clark Quay/Boat Quay, as well as the Museums & Civic District, and 20 minutes from the airport.

Hong Kong Music Festival 11-17 October 2010

2010-09-06T23:33:00.000-07:00

The Chopin Society of Hong Kong’s annual ‘The Joy of Music Festival 2010’ will be staged this year at the City Hall Concert Hall from October, 11st - 17th, 2010.

The Joy of Music Festival is held in the two interim years between The Chopin Society’s acclaimed Hong Kong International Piano Competition which was launched in 2005, and which is held every three years, the last one presented in 2008 and the next being in 2011.

“The Joy of Music Festival event acts as a continuity and link between these triennial competitions providing a platform for members of the competition jury to perform recitals and Master Classes, as well as recitals by the first prize winners of the competition,” said Dr. Andrew Freris, Chairman of The Chopin Society.

In addition to those artists connected directly with the competition, the Chopin Society invites other world-class artists such as guitarist Alvaro Pierri and also features the chamber ensemble drawn from the The London Chamber Orchestra which has a standing residency in Hong Kong as well as acting as the orchestra in the first competition in 2005.

This event is sponsored by Lady Kadoorie, Teresa Li-Lai, (the vice-chairwoman of the Chopin Society), Tom Lee Music and the Tom Lee Music Foundation and also with the generous support of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Hong Kong Government.

Highlights of this week long music festival include recitals by pianist Pascal Roge who will be performing a solo piano recital (14 October) and accompanied by the LCO Chamber Group playing Cesar Franck’s piano quintet (11 October), Peter Frankl in a piano solo recital (15 October) and the renowned pianist Gary Graffman who plays a piano chamber work for the left hand (16 October).

Hong Kong will also welcome back young Korean pianist Jinsang Lee, First Prize winner of the 2008 Hong Kong International Piano Competition who will perform works by Frederick Chopin accompanied by the London Chamber Orchestra String Quintet (October, 13rd) and pianist Sofya Gulyak , First Prize winner at the Leeds International Piano Competition in 2009, who will play works by Frederick Chopin and Robert Schumann on the night of October, 12nd, 2010.

For the finale on Sunday, 17 October, renowned guitarist Alvaro Pierri will perform works for solo guitar by Bach, Tansman and Bogdanovich during the first part of the programme and he will be joined by The LCO Chamber Group for the second part of the programme playing works by Vivaldi, Gnattali and Giuliani.

Tickets are priced at HKD 200, HKD 150, HKD 100. A 40 percent discount is available for senior citizens over 60, those with disabilities, full time students, Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA), PTC (Piano Teacher’s Circle) and OTC (Orchestral Teachers’ Circle) membership card holders. A 20 percent discount is available on booking for groups of four or more tickets purchased for any of the performances.

Master Classes

Piano and guitar students in particular, and music lovers in general, will be offered the opportunity to attend a series of free Master Classes as follows, by registering with The Chopin Society of Hong Kong.

Peter Frankl [Piano]
Date: Monday, 11 October and Tuesday, 12 October
Time: 9:30am to 1:30pm
Venue: Tom Lee Music Academy, MEGABOX, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon.

Professor Gary Graffman [Piano]
Date: Wednesday, 13 October and Thursday, 14 October
Time: 9:30am to 1:30pm (13 October) and 9:30am to 1:00pm (14 October)
Venue: Tom Lee Music Academy, MEGABOX, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon.

Pascal Roge [Piano]
Date: Saturday, 16 October and Sunday, 17 October
Time: 9:30am to 1:00pm (16 October) and 9:30 to 1:30pm (17 October)
Venue: Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall on Saturday, 16 October, and at Tom Lee Music Academy, MEGABOX, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, on Sunday, 17 October .

Alvaro Pierri [Guitar]
Date: Friday, 15 October, Saturday, 16 October and Monday, 18 October
Time: Friday, 15 October - 9:00am to 12:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Saturday, 16 October - 9:00am to 12:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Monday, 18 October - 10:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Venue: Tom Lee Music Academy, MEGABOX, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon.

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea launches Spa Promotion

2010-09-05T23:48:00.000-07:00

The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea launched a Scorching Spa Promotion. It includes a free grape seed body scrub, followed by a relaxing one hour massage, topped with a hydrating facial.

The promotion, available for both ladies and gentlemen, is priced at 175++ JOD for two and a half hours of spa treatments plus unlimited use of the Anantara Spa facilities.

At over 10,000 sq meters in size, the Anantara Spa at Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea boasts 20 treatment rooms, a Hydro Circuit, and Spa Garden. Facilities which include: hydro pools, steam rooms, sauna, jacuzzis, indoor salt pools, heated loungers, relaxation rooms, outdoor pools, juice bar, and spa garden dining.

Hotels in Jakarta, Indonesia

2010-09-02T16:33:00.000-07:00

Jakarta is a beautiful city. It's still a safe place as long as common sense precautions are taken. Always use Blue bird or Silver Bird taxis these are highly reputable and the safest of all taxis in Jakarta. Because of the turmoil you can stay at some of the best hotels at excellent prices.

Here are selections and reviews of some hotels in Jakarta. These hotels in Jakarta are listed in no particular order.

Hotel Atlet Century Park - Excellent location for the Conference and Convention Centre, and with a major shopping and entertainment complex just behind the hotel really is ideal. The hotel is also one of the few that serves Japanese breakfast IN the Japanese restaurant. We wish more hotels would do this, and they finally are beginning to as it is very popular with everyone not only the Japanese. The rooms do not all have a bathtub so make sure you specify your needs when you make a booking. See more of this hotel with pictures and special rates.

Hotel Gran Mahakam Jakarta - An awarding winning hotel and one of the finest properties in Jakarta. Review to come. See more of the hotel with pictures and special rates.

Imperial Century Hotel and Country Club - If you prefer to stay in a resort, or enjoy being outside the city, then this should be your choice. Or you could possibly finish of your business trip by spending a couple of night at this lovely hotel playing a few rounds of well earned and relaxing golf. See pictures and special rates from this hotel.

Hotel Mulia Senayan Jakarta - One of the tallest hotels in Jakarta. This hotel is stunning with very rich furnishings in the rooms and lobby area. The hotel frequently has offer some excellent promotions available and is well located for the Conference and Convention Centre. See more of this hotel with pictures and special rates.

Sari Pan Pacific Hotel - Excellent hotel in the Pan Pacific Hotels and resorts group. It is very well located along Jalan M.H. Thamarin, the main high street in Jakarta. The executive lounge offers breakfast and cocktails in a quaint 18 Floor lounge. They have an excellent Japanese restaurant, which has an incredible Sunday Lunch buffet, that costs 65,000 Rupiah. A must try. The hotel also boasts Pitstop which is a lively bar and is also well worth a visit if you are in Jakarta. There will be some slight modifications made to the hotel very soon, such as high speed modem connections, a very large selection of cable tv and many others which will make it one of the top hotels in Jakarta. An excellent choice of hotel.

Grand Hyatt - This hotel gets a lot of free publicity largely because of its location right in the heart of the city. It is a very large hotel, with many very good food and beverage outlets. They also have O'Reillys which is a very good bar and one of the best in Jakarta. They now have a local Jakarta band rather than an imported band. It is best to arrive here around 9 - 9:30 as this is when the band starts.

Mandarin Oriental - Opposite the Hyatt and therefore also in an excellent location. This hotel has a lovely personalised feel to it. They also have very good Chinese, Italian and Japanese restaurants. You will also be able to buy cigars from the only legal importer of Cuban cigars, as they have a shop on the mezzanine level.

Hotel Indonesia - One of the oldest hotels in Jakarta, on the same round about as the Hyatt and Mandarin above.

Borubudur - Formerly the InterContinental. Very nice hotel which has just finished an enormous renovation programme. Good choice.

Kempinski - one of the newest hotels in Jakarta and well located. The rooms are of good size and well appointed. They will be opening a new bar/disco next year. Definitely worth checking it out.

Ayana Resort and Spa – The cliff

2010-08-31T23:11:00.000-07:00

Stroll through the hotel’s landscape, and you will find a virtual celebration of life. With tropical flowers and trees set amidst tiered lawns. Stone step, cut into the cliff, lead into a lush ravine that forms the entance to secluded, calm waters.

Let your eyes wander and you’ll realise that your choices do not end here. After all, there are 323 spacious guest rooms, sumptuously appointed suites and private villas from which to choose. Almost all open out to dramatic views of the sun, sand, water and sky.

Singapore Hotels Returning to Pre-Crisis Levels

2010-08-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

Singapore hotels seem to be returning to pre-crisis levels with the vibrant city-state leaping 19 places as most expensive city in the world for business travellers, according to the Global Hotel Market Survey from the Hogg Robinson Group.

Results for H1 2010 shows that Singapore is ahead of Beijing, but still cheaper than Hong Kong. Key trends from the update include:

- Singapore jumped to 25th place as the most expensive city in the world for travellers from the UK, a leap from its 44th place ranking in 2009. The result reflects the report of the Ministry of Trade and Industry which says that average room rates in Singapore have risen by 20 percent this year. However, Singapore is still cheaper compared to Hong Kong.

- Hong Kong became the third most expensive city in the world for travellers from the UK, a rebound from its 10th place ranking in 2009. It posted a growth performance of 13 percent in the local currency due to increased demand from the Banking and Finance sector. Hong Kong posted the highest increase in rates in both the first and second quarters among all the cities surveyed-11 percent for the first and 17 percent for the second.

- Moscow maintains its standing as the most expensive city for travellers from the UK, despite a decrease of 12 percent in the local currency.

- Singaporeans may find it more cost-efficient to travel to Abu Dhabi, as it falls to eight place this year, a downward trajectory from its second place ranking in 2009. It saw the highest average room rate reduction of 25 percent in the local currency.

- Beijing's average room rate decreased by 18 percent in the local currency. The city is currently facing an oversupply of hotel rooms, due largely to massive investment from key industry players who are keen to develop this market.

- Double digit dips in average room rates occurred in the Middle East and West Asian region due to a decrease in occupancy coupled with new hotel openings.

James Stevenson, Executive Vice President (Asia Pacific) of HRG, said, "Expectation is high for further recovery in rates and the big hotel groups are understandably working to return their rates to pre-recession levels. HRG has witnessed companies reviewing and consolidating their travel programmes to secure lower hotel rates through increasing their market share with a preferred hotel supplier. We continue to help corporates navigate a complicated market and ensure business travellers have the best hotel deal."

Douglas McWilliams, Chief Executive of cebr (Centre for Economics and Business Research Ltd.), a leading economic think tank which analysed the HRG survey, said, "We are in the middle of a global economic recovery which remains in a fragile state. Whilst the possibility of a double-dip recession is relatively small, the pace of the recovery varies significantly across the world. The latest HRG Hotel Survey illustrates the effects of a multi-speed economic recovery in the hotel market. Many western economies are coming to terms with the budget cuts necessary to reduce sovereign debt levels which will inevitably soften room rate growth.

"Dynamic emerging economies have less need to take fiscal austerity measures in the current climate and we expect growth to be higher as a result. However, the survey shows that emerging economies have not, as of yet, fully recovered from the effects of the economic downturn."

HRG's interim survey is based on a combination of industry intelligence, actual room nights booked and rates paid by its UK clients between January and June 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

Even taking into account the effect of currency fluctuations, average room rates vary significantly by city when compared to the same period in 2009, revealing a very mixed performance across markets. Six of the top ten cities managed to achieve average rate growth when measured in local currency.

Moscow has maintained its place at the highest average room rate for the sixth year despite a 12 percent fall in local currency. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi, which in HRG's January to June 2009 survey was in second place and the only top ten city at the time to record any growth (5 percent), has seen a dramatic reversal, experiencing the highest average rate reduction of 25 percent. Like Dubai, Abu Dubai has faced a substantial fall in occupancy combined with ongoing new hotel developments, set to continue for some time to come.

Hong Kong achieved the highest growth performance in local currency terms, recovering from an 18 percent decline in 2009 to growth of 13 percent in 2010, assisted by a substantial increase in travel into the city from the Banking and Finance sector. Rome, Copenhagen and Dubai (-7 percent, -10 percent and -12 percent in GBP terms) drop out of the top ten, falling to 14th, 16th and 19th positions respectively.

With the exception of Dublin, where the average rate was static, when broken down on a quarterly basis, all the key cities saw average rates increase in the second quarter. Taken as an average across all 12 cities surveyed, average rates fell by 2.5 percent in the first quarter but grew by almost 5 percent in the second suggesting signs of a recovery in the global hotel market.

The country showing the highest increase in rates over both quarters was Hong Kong with growth of 11 percent and 17 percent, whilst Zurich, Amsterdam and Stockholm were the only other cities to record consecutive rate increases.

London's performance in the first quarter was adversely affected by the heavy snow at the start of the year. However, average rates grew in the second quarter due to a particularly strong April as a result of the effects of the ash cloud from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and buoyant leisure demand.

Rates

While GBP rate increases in Sydney and Johannesburg seem prominent at 24 percent and 20 percent this result is due entirely to fluctuating Australian dollar and Rand exchange rates; when measured in local currency, average rates were either flat or showing a marginal 1 percent increase.

Stockholm managed to achieve rate growth due to a recovery in occupancy levels and a lack of any significant new hotel openings during the period.

Belfast and Beijing both suffer from an oversupply of hotels, the latter having experienced massive investment in recent years from major players keen to build a presence in this emerging market.

Bangalore, a city reliant on business travel associated with the IT industry and call centres, is a classic example of a market 'popping' as it has seen rates fall as a result of a drop in demand due to the global recession coupled with significant new hotel openings which have led to a current oversupply of rooms. Services apartments have grown in popularity and some of the IT industry has relocated to other areas in India.

With the exception of the MEWA region, the global hotel market has shown signs of stabilising when measured in GBP.

The region showing the highest increase was Africa where average rates grew by 16 percent, in part reflecting continued investment from global and multinational organisations engaged in the Oil & Gas, Banking & Finance and Telecoms industries in the region. Mostly, however, this was down to exchange rate variances, particularly in South Africa. The effect of the country playing host to the 2010 FIFA World Cup did not start to impact the rates until June.

Following a 17 percent fall in the first six months of 2009, average rates in Eastern Europe have held relatively firm, largely due to better performance in Moscow and strong results in Poland where average rates increased by 9 percent (Warsaw +10 percent).

The highest regional rate decrease was recorded in the MEWA region (-15 percent) with double digit rate falls being recorded in the UAE (primarily Abu Dhabi -26 percent and Dubai -12 percent), Bahrain (-14 percent), Qatar (-22 percent) and Oman (-24 percent). As explained previously, the region has faced a supply and demand issue and a substantial fall in occupancy combined with ongoing new openings.

In the US market, where exchange rates were relatively stable in comparison to the previous year, rates were flat or marginally lower. The primary exception was San Francisco, where average rates fell by 11 percent. UK average rates fell by 1.2 percent or £1.25 per night, compared to the 5 percent decline seen in the first half of 2009.

Hilton Hotels in Thailand join Golf Consortium

2010-08-27T22:46:00.000-07:00

Hilton Hotels joined the Thai marketing cooperative Golf in a Kingdom: The Thai Golf Experience.

As new hotel partners, Hilton properties across Thailand in Bangkok, Pattaya, Hua Hin and Phuket are preferred lodging options now, along side some of the country’s top golf courses, in a variety of stay-and-play itineraries offered and executed by tour operator Golfasian. The four Hilton properties that have joined Golf in a Kingdom include:

Hilton Pattaya: Located in the heart of this coastal city, overlooking Pattaya Beach, and situated atop the new Central Festival Pattaya Beach complex, with its 200 international-caliber shops, restaurants, cinemas and recreational facilities.

Millennium Hilton Bangkok: Standing on the banks of the Chao Praya River and boasting sweeping city views of the Thai capital.

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa: The resort is set on Karon Beach and comprises 75 acres of lush tropical gardens.

Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa: A 17-story tower in the center of this coastal beachside town overrlooks the Gulf of Thailand and serves as home to distinctive mix of dining options, including the Hua Hin Brewery Company, a former fisherman’s shack dating from 1923.

“I think it is instructive for traveling golfers in Europe and North America to recognize that Thailand is equipped with 5-star hotel brands like Hilton, and Marriott, along with world-class golf, superb food, unmatched nightlife and a first-world, modern transportation infrastructure,” said Mark Siegel, CEO of Bangkok-based Golfasian. “Of course, there is a difference - Thailand is tropically temperate 365 days a year, and golfers can spend a week here for a fraction of what they’d pay in European or North American destinations.”

Play and Stay options through Golfasian are available at some of the best courses in Thailand including:

- Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin, voted top new course in Asia by readers of Asian Golf Monthly in 2009
- Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort, recently voted the top course in Southeast Asia by SEA Globe magazine.
- Muang Kaew Golf Club, a lush urban retreat in the heart of Bangkok.
- The Old Course at Siam Country Club in Pattaya, host of the 2010 Honda PTT LPGA
- Siam Country Club’s Plantation Course, host of the same LPGA event in 2009
- Thai Country Club in Bangkok, voted ‘Best Championship Course in Asia’, as voted by Asian Golf Monthly readers in 2008.
- Black Mountain Golf Club, just three years old but already a bona fide “championship” layout, having played host to the Asian Tour’s Black Mountain Masters in 2009.

Deutsche Bahn Opens Agency in Beijing

2010-08-24T20:21:00.000-07:00

Deutsche Bahn is the German national railway company, he has opened of its first agency in China, using booking technology from Amadeus to sell tickets for both Deutsche Bahn and other European railway providers.

The agency is based in the capital Beijing and will offer the same ticket and service options for private and business customers as any Deutsche Bahn travel centre in Germany, including access to the full range of Deutsche Bahn rail content.

The move follows the recent decision by the China National Tourism Association (CNTA) to open up the outbound tourism market in China to foreign operators for the first time on a pilot basis and allows both Amadeus and Deutsche Bahn to finally leverage the most lucrative part of the Chinese tourism market.

“Many people travel to Germany and our goal is to highlight the advantages of travelling by train while the traveller is still in their home country building their trip. This partnership gives them the ability to book their entire trip – flight, hotel and train travel – all in one place,” said Jürgen Büchy, CEO of Deutsche Bahn Vertrieb GmbH. “We made the decision to partner with Amadeus, because their German Rail booking technology is a market leader and is coupled with a strong international presence. The reliable, state-of-the-art solution provides the travel seller with access to DB's full content offer.”

Diane Bouzebiba, Head of Amadeus Rail said, “Recent market liberalisation in the Chinese tourism industry has given European providers of travel services an opportunity to serve the Chinese traveller at travel decision time. While rail keeps gaining ground as a preference of those who travel within Europe, Deutsche Bahn continues to deliver a top-level service and is now making their offer available to more travellers worldwide. This joint initiative between Deutsche Bahn and Amadeus shows how two market leaders can build a long term business relationship, and make a travel reservation easier in a key tourism market such as China.”

The new agency in Beijing is only one of many Deutsche Bahn travel agencies around the world that use technology from Amadeus.

Novotel Solo

2010-08-23T00:55:00.000-07:00

Discover the cultural heritage of Solo with its ancient palaces, traditional handicraft and mesmerizing Gamelan music.

The Novotel Solo offers 142 well-appointed rooms in the heart of Solo’s business, shopping and cultural district. Excellent restaurants await you as well as extensive leisure facilities and multi-function meeting and banquet facilities for up to 1,000 people.

SPECIAL RATES
Room Category     Special Rates     Special Rates     Special Rates

validity     1 Jan to 30 Jun 2005     1 Jul to 2 Nov and 14 Nov to 31 Dec 2005     3 Nov to 13 Nov 2005

Superior Room     US$ 36 ++     US$ 45 ++     US$ 50 ++
Deluxe Room     US$ 42 ++     US$ 52 ++     US$ 58 ++


RESERVE NOW
American Breakfast - US$ 5 ++ per person
Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 11 % government tax. Rates are per room per night (single & double / twin occupancy).

Hotel Ibis Tamarin Jakarta

2010-08-22T01:19:00.000-07:00

Night or day you will be greeted with a smile. Our reception area is open 24 hours a day. Services include safety deposit boxes, foreign exchange and a team of professionally trained Guest Relation Managers.

The Ibis Tamarin is located in the centre of Jakarta. Stay with us and you will find easy access to major destinations in town for business or leisure.

Our restaurant offers guests an array of quality food, of both Indonesian and International flavours.

For the health conscious, our fitness centre is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a hard day at work or play.

Each room at the Ibis Tamarin is well equipped, with a mini bar, 14 in-house TV channels, and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities are just some of the facilities offered to ensure that your stay at the Ibis Tamarin is as comfortable as possible.

Keys to Success - Hospitality Tips

2010-08-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

One of the most meaningful and comprehensive service codes ever introduced in hospitality.

This series on the 'high-touch' side of hospitality prompted positive reader feedback and ideas from hoteliers and managers who have participated in some of my workshops idea
* Segment 1 underscored the need for hospitality businesses to deliver unique experience to avoid being viewed as a commodity.
* Segment 2 focused on identifying ways to encourage hotel staffs to think about the 'guest experience' , whether you are an independent hotel or brand affiliated It offered concrete examples ways to avoid being seen as ordinary or a 'commodity' in the critical guest service of SLEEP
* Segment 3 examined the essential topic of significant value to hotel guests everywhere: BREAKFAST.
* Segment 4 generated the most reader feedback, with general agreement that calming “an angry customer” gives hotels the chance to win loyalty be demonstrating sincere concern.

No one is proposing that we want to annoy guests, but there is agreement that a 'satisfied' guest is probably not thinking a hotel is very special and that adequate stay does not automatically build loyalty or repeat visits. Hotels of today must anticipate problem areas and respond immediately when one arises. This means that hotel owners and managers must allow and insist that their staffs do whatever it takes to meet the customers’ needs and a number of individual properties, brands and chains have worked to refine their staff responsiveness to these guest annoyances.

In the last column, I promised I would share one of the most meaningful and comprehensive service codes ever introduced. An unusual and perhaps unexpected fact about this service code is that premiered almost a century ago by one of the most successful hoteliers of all time.

Elsworth Statler has been described and considered one of the most innovative and creative of hoteliers of all time. He is credited with many of the practices and construction methods that became industry standards.

It was in Buffalo in 1908 that Elsworth Statler,(born into poverty in a West Virginia mining centers), began paying real attention to details that would become trademarks of his genius. In a 300-room hotel, he was the first to provide a bathroom in each room, which had been unheard of that time. Rather than force guests that were strangers to share common baths down the hall, he modified the construction practice to build rooms “back-to-back”. This practice was then able to use common electrical conduit and plumbing shafts (later known as the Statler plumbing shaft), making the bathroom a basic part of every Statler hotel and within a decade in many of the hotels in the industry.

The Buffalo Statler introduced other innovations that evolved into standards at many hotels, including circulating ice water in every room, which was important in the pre-air conditioning heat in many cities, telephones in every room, a full size closet in every room, lights in every closet and a hook by the mirror in each bathroom that encouraged guests to reuse their towel, thereby saving laundry costs.

Statler understood success was a combination of operations and marketing. He was perceptive in paying attention to building revenues and anticipated the expansion of conventions and meetings business. Guest rooms were not decorated in a “cookie cutter” style, but were with the proper balance of colors and design so that bedspreads, draperies and rugs could be interchanged from room to room if need be.

In addition to the physical amenities he stressed and introduced, he recognized that guests had to feel appreciated. To emphasize his commitment, Statler introduced what he called the STATLER SERVICE CODE.

Statler Service Code

* It is the business of a good hotel to cater to the public. It is the avowed business of the Hotel Statler to please the public better than any other hotel in the world.
* Have everyone feel that for his money we want to give him more sincere service than he ever before received at any hotel.
* Never be perky, pungent or fresh. The guest pays your salary as well as mine. He is your immediate benefactor.
* Hotel service, that is, Hotel Statler service, means the limit of courteous, efficient attention from each particular employee to each particular guest. It is the object of the Hotel Statler to sell its guest the best service in the world.
* No employee of this hotel is allowed the privilege of arguing any point with a guest. He must adjust the matter at once to the guest's satisfaction or call his superior to adjust it. Wrangling has no place in Hotel Statler.
* In all minor discussions between Statler employees and guests the employee is dead wrong, from the guest's point of view and from ours.
* Any Statler employee who is wise and discrete enough to merit tips is wise and discrete enough to render like service whether he is tipped or not.
* Any Statler employee who fails to give service or who fails to thank the guest who gives him something falls short of Statler standards.

-- John Hogan --

Dubai's Seawings launches Ramadan Promotion

2010-08-16T23:57:00.000-07:00

Seawings, a Dubai-based seaplane tour operator, launched a 2010 Ramadan promotion.

For 699 AED guests can enjoy a spectacular aerial view of Dubai's famed attractions amid the rosy glow of the setting sun, after which they will be treated to a mouthwatering spread of Iftar foods at the five-star Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.

The one of a kind aerial tour of Dubai includes breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, Palm islands, Burj Al Arab, historical Dubai Creek and more.

Seawings began operating with just one aircraft and a handful of staff. Today, the company has grown to include three Cessna 208 Caravan amphibious aircraft and a staff base of over 70.