Big Fat Hotel Wrap

Big Fat Hotel Wrap

As S-Club sang, ‘There ain’t no party like a Hotel Wrap party’. Oh wait, we’re getting the lyrics mixed up, aren’t we?

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives unveils new luxury all-inclusive offer

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Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives new All-Inclusive Maldives Package includes accommodation in a luxury private villa on full board basis, offering a wide range of cuisines across the resort’s three restaurants, an unlimited selection of beverages, unlimited non-motorized water sports and discounts across many other resort activities, including spa treatments at CHI, The Spa.

The All-Inclusive Maldives Package starts from US$729 (approx. £599) per person/night. Includes:

  • Daily breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner for two at Javvu Restaurant or a credit of USD 90 per person for dinner at Fashala or Dr. Ali Restaurants
  • An unlimited selection of white wine, red wine, beer, spirits and selected cocktails in restaurants and bars only
  • Unlimited non-motorised watersports
  • 20% off motorised watersports
  • 50% off spa treatments at CHI, The Spa

Available from 12 Feb 2017 through 7 Jan 2018.Terms & conditions apply.

For more information and reservation: Tel: +960 689 7888, slmd@shangrila.com, or www.shangri-la.com

Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong, Opens Today

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The new 546-room Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong opens its doors to guests today as the city’s first urban resort, inspiring lifestyle pursuits with its outdoor living spaces and family activities whilst setting the tone for world-class business and meeting services.

The debut of the hotel is an important milestone for Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts as it marks its fourth property in the city and the new flagship hotel of the Kerry brand.

The new build 16-storey hotel is the first to open on the Kowloon waterfront since 1995. Providing guests with uninterrupted views over Victoria Harbour, the hotel’s multi-level podium design with extensive outdoor landscaped gardens connect the hotel seamlessly to public areas.

Introductory Offer

From now until 31 July 2017, guests booking the exclusive opening offer will enjoy the following benefits:

  • A choice of complimentary upgrade to the next room category or complimentary breakfast buffet for two persons per day or 20 % off the Best Available Rate
  • Two complimentary drinks at Red Sugar per stay
  • Complimentary minibar upon arrival

Terms and Conditions:

  • The offer is only applicable to rooms (excluding suites) booked at the Best Available Rate and is subject to availability
  • Stays must be completed by 31 July 2017
  • Bookings must be made directly with the hotel via telephone (852) 3069 9988, email reservations.khhk@thekerryhotels.com or the hotel’s website www.shangri-la.com/hongkong/kerry.

New Hotels Joins Small Luxury Hotels of the World 

Small Luxury Hotels of the World welcomes six boutique properties to its portfolio this April with four new openers in Thailand.

Akyra Beach Club: Phuket, Thailand

  • Rooms from $180 AUD per night
  • Opened in January 2017

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Set in a small fishing community, Akyra Beach Club Phuket is a blissful boutique retreat on the golden sands of Natai Beach. The 58 luxury suites and stand-alone villas are nestled among tropical gardens and feature floor to ceiling windows, naturally inspired furnishings with a contemporary touch and private terraces. Guests can simply relax by the pool to the down tempo sounds of the resident DJ, take part in the daily yoga sessions on the beach or sip cocktails and eat fresh net-caught seafood. Those seeking more adventure can opt for surf lessons, scuba diving trips or the chance to swim with leopard sharks.

Cape Kudu Hotel: Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

  • Rooms from $328 AUD per night
  • Opened January 2017

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Situated on the unspoilt island of Koh Yao Noi in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, Cape Kudu Hotel delivers cool coastal aesthetic and dramatic views of the Bay. The hotel features 55 luxurious rooms including 11 pool villas and a Robinson Crusoe suite, complemented by an array of facilities including three bars and dining options, a salt-water infinity pool and fully equipped gym. There’s plenty to stay occupied from kayaking to snorkelling, or head to the buzzing night market in a vintage car or Vespa.

137 Pillars Suites and Residences: Bangkok, Thailand

  • Rooms from $714 AUD per night
  • Opened April 2017

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This distinctive hotel is located on Sukhumvit Soi 39, a trendy area of the city. Occupying the top level of this unique building, the hotel boasts Bangkok’s highest infinity- edged pool. The 34 suites are all styled to perfection, with traditionally-inspired furnishings with a cutting-edge twist and a jaw-dropping skyline view in every room, some with their own private bar.

Guests at the hotel can enjoy a wide-range of personal services such as a meditation spa and wellness centre, gourmet dining, cocktails above the skyline at the rooftop Sky Bar, as well as a bespoke tour service to take in local landmarks such as the Grand Palace and reclining Buddha of Wat Pho in your transport of choice.

Akyra Thonglor: Bangkok, Thailand

  • Rooms from $148 AUD
  • Opened December 2016

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Situated in Thonglor, one of the buzziest districts of Bangkok, this chic metropolitan retreat puts guests right in the heart of the action, surrounded by a plethora of trendy cafes, bars and galleries to explore. Akyra Thonglor features 148 rooms and suites, designed to provide a true sense of city living, each with a fully equipped kitchenette and all the mod-cons you could need.

A great line up of top class facilities and services compliment the rooms, including a pool bar with city views, a plush executive lounge and high-end restaurant serving the best of Asian and Western food.

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa: Sausalito, California

  • Rooms from $413 AUD per night

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Perched on a hillside overlooking San Francisco Bay, Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa has long been a magnet for Hollywood actors and Rock royalty and has also lived life as a WWII military retreat. The interiors of this 64-roomed property are inspired by the surrounding seascape, with grey and blue palettes and many with outdoor spaces.

For the ultimate in luxury, book the Alexandrite Suite which has indoor and outdoor kitchens, fire pit, hot tub and private gym. Or to feel like a rockstar, go for The Piper Room which was host to Pink Floyd during the band’s first North American tour, promoting Piper at the Gates of Dawn in 1967.

Guests can relax in the on-site spa offering an assortment of natural therapies including mineral salt scrubs and algae facials or embrace the Sausalito locale with private painting lessons, wine tasting nearby or even learn to sail.

Stein Eriksen Residences: Utah, USA

  • Rooms from $1,978 AUD per night
  • Opened December 2016

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Situated directly off the Last Chance ski run in the world-famous Deer Valley Resort, SLH’s first hotel in Utah offers one of the most desirable locations on the mountain with easy access to the main lodge and the town of Park City.

Each of the 14 residences offer wrap-around windows that show off sweeping mountain views, wood and gas burning fireplaces in master suites and living rooms, and a hot tub for après-ski soaks. All units are also equipped with ski in/ski out access from a private trail.

The main lodge welcomes guests with a New American concept restaurant and bar complete with an extensive wine collection, outdoor lounge with fire pits, heated indoor/outdoor infinity pool, hot tubs, private ski lockers, on-site spa and a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Intercontinental Hotels Group’s New Zealand Winter Campaign

The InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the launch of its winter campaign IHG Escapes, with big savings on stays at all IHG hotels in New Zealand as well as properties throughout Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.

IHG will operate six properties in New Zealand including Crowne Plaza Auckland and Crowne Plaza Queenstown, Holiday Inn Rotorua and Holiday Inn Auckland Airport, and InterContinental Wellington and the new Crowne Plaza Christchurch.

Guests who book direct with IHG between May 1 and May 21 2017 will receive at least 25% off stays up to 31 December 2017. The deal includes IHG Rewards Club members also enjoy an additional 3% off, along with exclusive member benefits, when booking direct at www.ihg.com. Every stay means more points acquired toward a member’s next complimentary Reward Night or gifts from IHG’s extensive online catalogue.
Booking direct as a member also means complimentary internet, priority check-in, and more time for relaxation with extended checkouts.
For more information on the deals and the locations of each hotel, click here. Bookings for the IHG Escapes winter campaign should be made direct.

AVANI Hotels & Resorts to open in Auckland New Zealand

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In a deal worth over NZD 11 million dollars, the Metro Suites’ 40-storey luxury tower will be transformed through a major room refurbishment program and rebranded as Metropolis AVANI Residences by October 2017, signalling the first AVANI hotel in New Zealand to open its doors.

Located on the North Island, Auckland is renowned as New Zealand’s leading urban hub, while still retaining the splendour of the country’s remarkable natural landscape, fusing scenic harbours, breathtaking volcanic cones and lush rainforest.

The soon-to-be Metropolis AVANI Residences is within easy walking distance to the vibrant waterfront precinct and positioned in close proximity to some of Auckland’s most popular cafes, eateries and entertainment venues, including Vector Arena and Sky Tower.

Rooms will feature spacious living and dining areas, well-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, and will be accompanied by stunning views over the city skyline, harbour and beyond. Leisure facilities include a 22-metre heated swimming pool, indoor and outdoor spas, sauna, gymnasium with male and female facilities, and steam room.

Sofitel Sydney’s Golden Ticket Competition!

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Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, the most anticipated luxury hotel opening of the decade is celebrating the launch of its online bookings by offering one lucky person the Golden Ticket of a lifetime.

The Golden Ticket comprises 9 double pass tickets to events and quintessential Sydney experiences for two people.

Some of the key events include tickets to Arsenal FC vs Sydney FC and the State of Origin, tickets to see comedian Chris Rock, tickets to the Russian National Ballet: Romeo and Juliet at the State Theatre, passes to Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb, a private helicopter flight over Sydney, and New Year’s Eve accommodation in the Prestige Suite at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. For the full list of Golden Ticket prizes, head to: www.accorhotels.com/goldenticket

To go into the draw to win the Golden Ticket, a gold pass to the best events and attractions Sydney has to offer, simply make a reservation at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour on www.accorhotels.com from now until 4 June 2017 for stays from 1 November 2017.

Holiday Inn Express opens its doors in central Brisbane

Brisbane city’s newest hotel is an innovative place to stay for smart, savvy travellers.

Showing off its 226 rooms and expansive public spaces, the world’s fastest growing hotel brand officially opened in Brisbane’s Spring Hill today in a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, Brisbane Marketing CEO John Aitken, Karin Sheppard, Chief Operating Officer at IHG and Phil Kasselis, Managing Director at Pro-invest Group.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said: “The Holiday Inn Express is a welcome addition to Brisbane’s hotel infrastructure and will complement the city’s booming tourism and major events programs, which are attracting record visitor numbers and creating around 64,700 local jobs.”

The hotel is located close to the city’s business centre and transportation network, and is in walking distance of fantastic dining, shopping and entertainment options.

AccorHotels’ leading Novotel brand selected for South Wharf Hotel

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AccorHotels’ Novotel has been selected by Middle East hotel owner and developer, Action Hotels Group plc (Action) for a new 4-star hotel to be developed next to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Novotel Melbourne South Wharf is currently under construction and is scheduled to open by Q1 2018. The project is located close to the expanded exhibition space of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, providing business and leisure guests more high-quality accommodation options on the Yarra River’s south bank.

The hotel will encompass 347 rooms incorporating the global Novotel ‘N Room’ design as well as Novotel Gourmet Bar and Food Exchange concept. The hotel will encompass Novotel brand identifiers including Live N’ Dream bedding, interactive TV’s and FairTrade bathroom amenities, and free barista coffee at breakfast.

Quest rebrand initiates next chapter for the historic Grand Hotel Melbourne

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The Grand Hotel Melbourne has been officially rebranded as a Quest property. Located in Melbourne’s CBD at 33 Spencer Street, the property, which was built in the 1880’s, offers business and leisure travellers 95 spacious studio, one and two bedroom apartment style accommodation options infused with 4.5 star comfort befitting one of the city’s landmark hotels.

Quest CEO, Zed Sanjana said: “The prime location on the corner of Spencer and Flinders Streets positions Quest Grand Hotel Melbourne very favourably for business travellers to Melbourne’s CBD. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Crown Entertainment Complex, Docklands and Melbourne’s legal and finance precincts are all in close proximity.”

Guest facilities at Quest Grand Hotel Melbourne include an on-site restaurant and bar, valet parking, indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, outdoor BBQ and garden area, and a meeting room facility for up to 50 delegates.

Stay and Walk Sydney’s historic Tank Stream

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Sydney’s newest international hotel, The Tank Stream, is offering visitors to Sydney an opportunity to combine contemporary comfort with a new two night accommodation package that includes a historical discovery tour that traces the path of the city’s original life-source, the Tank Stream.

When the First Fleet arrived in 1788, it was meant to have established the colony at Botany Bay, but the lack of fresh water saw Captain Arthur Phillip move the fleet around to Sydney Cove, where they discovered a fresh water stream – and the city of Sydney was born.

The Tank Stream is now fully covered, but a Tank Stream & Hidden Laneways tour – conducted by small-group tour specialists Go Local Tours – provides visitors the opportunity to retrace its path covering the city’s infamous start as a penal colony, the beautiful sandstone architecture, and the colourful stories behind the laneways that lead from Martin Place down to Sydney Harbour.

The Winter Walk The Tank Stream package includes two nights in a Superior Queen Room at the Tank Stream Hotel, complimentary upgrade to next room type (subject to availability), breakfast for two at Le Petit Flot Restaurant, free wifi, in-room movies and mini bar items (non alcoholic), and a Tank Stream & Hidden Laneways Tour for two.

The package is available from $479 (double/twin), a saving of 25% off full rates. Bookings via: www.tankstreamhotel.com (Promotional code Winterwalk17). The package is valid till 31 August 2017. Conditions apply.

InterContinental Sydney presents a culinary exhibition from pop-up laneways to the heights of Supper Club

Inspired by the creativity and stimulation of Vivid Sydney, InterContinental Sydney has revealed a culinary exhibition of its own, announcing a line-up of unique dining experiences throughout the Vivid festival. InterContinental presents:

  • Supper Club: A Vivid-inspired cocktail trio, “A Celebration of Colour”
  • InterContinental Sydney Laneway: The iconic pop-up Laneway returns for group events
  • 117 dining + Supper Club: A bespoke progressive dining event

SUPPER CLUB: A COCKTAIL TRIO OF COLOUR AND INFUSION

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Supper Club has curated a Vivid-inspired cocktail package – a trio of mini cocktails called ‘A Celebration of Colour.’

Supper Club is the only rooftop bar and terrace with 270 degrees sweeping the Harbour, offering guests a rare glimpse of the light festival. Supper Club will open every night throughout Vivid.

The ‘Celebration of Colour’ mini cocktail trio is $50.00 per person and reservations are essential. Available every day from 26 May to 17 June from 8:00pm-9:30pm. Supper Club is opened until late.

INTERCONTINENTAL SYDNEY LANEWAY POPS UP AGAIN FOR GROUP EVENTS

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With laneway dining in full force, InterContinental Sydney has upped the ante with its pop-up laneway on Macquarie Street. Designed exclusively for groups and events, this social laneway is the city’s only laneway for a sole-use dining event through Vivid.

The InterContinental Sydney Laneway will present a Vivid-inspired three-course set menu designed by the award-winning 117 dining team – including blow-torched salmon, sake-cured Pacific Reef cobia and Taj Ima Wagyu rump. For the ultimate in themed decadence, the ‘De-Light-Full’ signature dessert has been created to complement an evening of colour and creativity. Each course is expertly matched with a paired wine from Bimbadgen Winery.

Pricing: $139.00 per person; minimum 30 guests to book. Availability: Monday to Thursdays from 29 May to 15 June 2017. InterContinental Sydney Laneway can host events for up to 50 guests and is available for bookings from now until sold out.

A PROGRESSIVE DINING EVENT: 117 DINING + SUPPER CLUB

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InterContinental Sydney welcomes back its progressive dining event throughout selected evenings over Vivid – a multi-sensory journey combining the decadence of 117 dining and the unprecedented views atop Supper Club.

Guests will start the evening with a lavish four-course menu inside 117 dining – the 2016 winner of the World Luxury Restaurant Awards. Accompanied by matching wines, the signature dining restaurant presents Vivid-inspired dishes including blow-torched salmon with black rice, ginger and seaweed, followed by Tajima Wagyu rump with maple glazed carrots.

After an extravagant dessert, all guests will receive an exclusive invitation to Supper Club for the Neon Highball cocktail – a colourful mix of Japanese sake, honeydew melon liqueur, salted caramel syrup and cold-press pineapple juice.

This experience is available on set dates including: 31st May, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th June.

The Langham Sydney presents a vivid dining experience with artist, Kerrie Hess

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To celebrate VIVID Sydney 2017, on Wednesday 31 May The Langham Sydney invites guests to experience a culinary and culturally immersive experience with internationally renowned artist, Kerrie Hess.

In a one-night residency, guests will have the opportunity to encounter acclaimed artist Kerrie Hess as she lights up the room creating one of her signature water-colour fashion illustrations. Whilst she works on her masterpiece, guests will dine on a menu devised by The Langham Sydney’s Executive Chef, Dave Whitting, inspired by the artist’s work.

A VIVID inspired cocktail will be served upon arrival concocted by resident mixologist Emanuele Casati. Throughout the course of the dinner, guests will be immersed in ambient lighting that will change to reflect each dish presented on the menu, moving from coral blue through to vibrant orange and pastel pink.

The two-course menu will feature a seasonal entrée of smoked mackerel tartare, followed by a choice of steamed blue-eye cod or short rib, black rice and wild mushroom. The Langham Sydney’s newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef, Prashanth Krishnan will create a decadent dessert table laden with sweet delights reflective of Kerrie’s illustrative style.

  • WHAT: The Langham Sydney, an evening with Kerrie Hess
  • WHEN: Wednesday 31 May
  • WHERE: The Langham Sydney, 89-113 Kent Street, Millers Point, NSW, 2000
  • PRICE: $99 per person

Celebrate Sydney’s finest harbourside light show within the city’s finest harbourside address. To book a table, visit www.langhamhotels.com/sydney

The Mrs Sippy Experience comes to Bali

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MRS SIPPY – the popular, iconic bar and restaurant in Sydney’s Double Bay – has expanded the brand to launch a stylish pool club in Bali. A modern oasis, Mrs Sippy Bali is set to become Seminyak’s newest ‘see and be seen’ venue with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and ample spaces for swimming, sunning and dancing from day to night.

Mrs Sippy Bali is a chilled escape from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak. The 800m2 saltwater pool and diving platform is the central focus of Mrs Sippy Bali. With soft curves, rendered edges and gentle beach entries, the pool is surrounded by Mediterranean-style architecture, daybeds, cabanas, gardens and shady palm trees, providing a multitude of open and private spaces.

The on-site restaurant and bars feature menus and cocktails that are light, fresh and fun. With an events calendar of parties and international DJ’s, Mrs Sippy Bali will make a splash as the hottest spot on the Bali party scene.

Franzé Developments to develop first new hotel in 20 years

Franzé Developments acquired a site for $7 million in Geelong’s CBD. The development site will respond to strong demand for serviced apartments, hotel rooms and high quality office space in Geelong, as the city develops into the region’s epicenter for retail, tourism and employment.

Located at 44 Ryrie Street, the 2,700 square metre site was purchased off market from a local Geelong investor and chosen for its central location. Franzé Developments is working collaboratively with local and state government to submit plans to City of Greater Geelong by August 2017 for a $200 million mixed-use project comprising approximately 1,000 square meters ground floor retail, 5,000 square metres office space, serviced apartments totalling 90 rooms and a 200 bed hotel.

Mandarin Oriental announces a second luxury hotel project in Dubai

James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and His Excellency Hesham Al Qassim, CEO of wasl Asset Management Group

James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and His Excellency Hesham Al Qassim, CEO of wasl Asset Management Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will manage a second luxury hotel and branded residences in downtown Dubai which is targeted to open in late 2020.

The hotel will be the anchor of a 63-storey, mixed-use building, to be known as wasl tower, located on Sheikh Zayed Road. The property will have direct access to the area’s business and leisure attractions.

The hotel will feature 257 spacious and contemporary guestrooms, suites and serviced apartments, which will be located on floors 16 to 38 of the tower, providing outstanding views over downtown Dubai and the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. The accommodation will be designed to reflect local culture, with features inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage.

The Group will also manage 144 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, located on the tower’s upper floors, which will provide some of the most luxurious private homes in the city. 

A variety of restaurants and bars will be featured, comprising a lively rooftop sky bar with citywide views, a signature dining experience, an all-day dining venue, a poolside bar and restaurant, a lobby lounge, a club lounge, a cigar room and a Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop.

There will also be extensive banqueting and meeting spaces to accommodate social and business events.

A comprehensive Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer a wide range of spa, beauty and wellness experiences. The two-storey facility will feature 12 private treatment rooms, an extensive fitness centre, vitality pools, heat and water therapies, and an outdoor swimming pool set within a landscaped garden terrace.

It is within easy reach of the city’s two airports, being 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 40 minutes from Dubai South – Al Maktoum International Airport.

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