Hotel Designs

Hilton London Metropole conference hotel, situated only 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express at Paddington Station, has undergone a £2.3 million complete transformation of the bedrooms in its Conference Wing. The renovation is part of a three-year, $3 billion plan of significant property renovations currently underway across the global portfolio of Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide.A major renovation programme which offers a fully completed Conference Wing, with 354 of the largest ‘Double-Double’ rooms in London, providing the complete package for conference and event organisers.

Hilton London Metropole is the largest conference hotel in the U.K. and one of the largest in Europe, with two large conference rooms each with the capacity to hold 1,500 people. The conference facilities are also located in the conference wing, allowing for both the event and accommodation to be taken care of within the same location.

Avner On, general manager, Hilton London Metropole, said, “With space at a premium in the Capital, Hilton London Metropole prides itself on offering a room that rivals other London hotels by providing comfort, style and much needed additional square footage. The refurbishment of our Superior rooms marks the next stage in Hilton London Metropole’s continued refurbishment programme and the efforts to offer our meeting and conference delegates the best possible experience when staying with us.”

The Superior room category has been designed with both business traveller and families in mind. A flexible working area, separate relaxation corner, chaise lounge and coffee table, make for the perfect balance of work and rest space. The Superior Family room includes two queen beds, a sofa bed and two 32-inch LCD TV’s, allowing parents to watch news or movies on-demand whilst the kids stay entertained with their favourite shows at the other end of the room.

The Superior rooms have been transformed with an injection of stylish soft furnishings and modern design. The incorporation of rich plums and sage green tones create a calming atmosphere suitable for work or relaxation. Contemporary dark wood furnishings complement the autumnal tones and the off-white walls provide a neutral backdrop to set off the room, whilst the huge windows frame the room, let in tonnes of natural light and offer spectacular views of the Capital.

Hilton London Metropole has 1,054 bedrooms in total and is conveniently located outside of the congestion charge zone but only 10 minute’s walk to London’s West End. The hotel boasts two restaurants, a sports bar and a café, including Fiamma, which offers international cuisine with a Mediterranean flavour and Minako which combines breathtaking views from its 23rd floor location and an Asian fusion menu.

The Superior rooms refurbishment is part of an ongoing programme of upgrades at the hotel that will be continuing throughout 2012 and into 2013.

My old office was almost next door to Croydon’s Hampton by Hilton, and I watched its erratic progress week by week – erratic because a contractor went bust part way through, every project managers nightmare. Given the opportunity to take a quick look I was delighted to go and see it in its finished state, a representative of the eight new Hamptons Hilton UK is getting, the others being:

•Birmingham – Hampton by Hilton Birmingham/Star City
•Braintree – Hampton by Hilton Braintree
•Corby – Hampton by Hilton™ Corby / Kettering
•Derby – Hampton by Hilton Derby City Centre
•Liverpool – Hampton by Hilton Liverpool / City Centre
•Liverpool – Hampton by Hilton Liverpool / John Lennon Airport
•Newport – Hampton by Hilton Newport/East
•Shrewsbury – Hampton by Hilton ShrewsburyMy friend staying there is not a city person, normally living in rural Devon, so her experience of searching for an evening meal in Croydon whilst staying first night in the Holiday Inn Express in Croydon led to her moving to the Hampton, which provides a basic evening meal service. Unfortunately her experience of the evening food service was so poor (she was left going to bed without eating) that my partner and I took pity and brought her home to feed her. In return we got to look around the Hampton when we returned her to her room.

Squashed in between a couple of office blocks the building is close to the main rail station at East Croydon, a critical node in London’s transport infrastructure, where bus, trams and rail interchange, so hotel location is excellent. Its frontage enable the signage to be seen from the station and it is just a brisk 5 minute walk away.

Marriott International further strengthens its leadership position in Thailand with the opening of three new properties this year. The Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, The Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit and the Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok – Sukhumvit Thonglor will all open in 2012 bringing Marriott International’s portfolio to 16 hotels in the country. Marriott International currently operates a portfolio of world-leading hotels and brands in the country including the world-class JW Marriott hotels in Bangkok, Phuket and Khao Lak, the stylish, lifestyle Renaissance-branded hotels in Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui, and the award-winning luxury retreat, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, among others.

Rising over Bangkok’s premier lifestyle district of Thonglor, the Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit will be perfect for business travellers, weekend getaways and families, with a great mix of leisure and business facilities, ideally located close to the BTS Skytrain station.
With 296 exquisite guest rooms and suites, the hotel will feature three superb restaurants, bars and lounges, four meeting rooms and a Grand Ballroom. The iconic building offers sweeping views of the city and will also host a stunning rooftop bar and restaurant.
Located on the popular Mae Phim beach in the resort area of Rayong – just 205 kilometres south of Bangkok – the 206-room Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa will be located on a beautiful stretch of coastline offering aspects of both picturesque mountains and stunning ocean views.

The hotel will feature a Grand Ballroom along with five additional meeting rooms with extensive outdoor group space overlooking the tranquil landscape of the Gulf of Thailand. With the ability to host lavish weddings, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, the hotel is expected to become an immediate favourite for MICE, events and meetings customers. Offering a total of 7,120 square meters of total meetings space, the hotel is fitted with LCD projection and state-of-the-art technology for successful and memorable functions and events.

Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok – Sukhumvit Thonglor, which will be located in the same building as the Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, will offer the conveniences of a full service 5-star hotel with the space, ambience and privacy of residential living.

Marriott Executive Apartments are furnished with a fully equipped kitchen and are appropriate for any length of stay. Located in the heart of Bangkok’s upscale residential district, the Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok – Sukhumvit Thonglor will offer 74 units comprising one- two- and three-bed room apartments.

Tropical Sky is pleased to announce the opening date of its exclusively featured The SoCo Hotel, an Art Deco-inspired 3*+ offering, located near Bridgetown on the southern coast of Barbados.Situated at the start of the popular South Coast Board Walk, the elegant Miami Beach-style hotel is set to open on 15 August 2012 and is just a short stroll away from an excellent choice of restaurants and trendy bars.

Each of the 24 beautifully-appointed rooms offers fabulous views over the Caribbean Sea from either their balconies or terraces.

When ready for guests, the rooms and restaurant will be completed to a very high standard with modern furnishings throughout. The bar and pool deck are just metres away from the lapping waves of the Caribbean Sea, helping to carry the relaxed and chic atmosphere that will be the hotel’s hallmark.

The atmosphere is informal, suiting guests looking to simply relax and get away from it all. In addition, the hotel provides a fantastic location for those more active guests wishing to explore the beautiful island, while still receiving all the benefits of an all-inclusive hotel.

Rising demand for stylish, all-inclusive deals

Mike Collins, Managing Director of Tropical Sky, predicts demand for holidays in Barbados will grow rapidly over the next few years, as much-needed investment is being made into the island’s hotels.

“Customers are increasingly demanding higher quality as well as exceptional value and the island has needed to respond to this. The SoCo Hotel is set to meet these demands and we are delighted to be the driving force behind this. It is often the most simple of things that the modern traveller requires that makes the difference, such as Wi-Fi, and that is why we are including free Wi-Fi connectivity for our guests.

“When it opens, The SoCo Hotel, Barbados will offer a laid-back, quality experience and will maintain one of the very best all-inclusive rates anywhere on the island. It’s a very exciting project for us and we are sure that our customers will love it too.”

He went on to say: “With the recent news that some high street mortgage providers will be increasing their rates soon, further squeezing everyone’s budgets. This will obviously affect many people’s ability to go on holidays where they need a lot of spending money. Tropical Sky and The SoCo Hotel, Barbados, with its all-inclusive offering responds very proactively to a changing market and customers’ needs.”

The Hotel Show 2012 reaffirmed its position as the largest full spectrum hospitality supplies event for the MENA region, with exhibitors reporting an increase in sales figures and record numbers of visitors during the three day event.

Participation this year of 450 leading suppliers and consultants from more than 45 countries and 13 international pavilions highlighted the pivotal role that the show plays in facilitating trade between suppliers and buyers from every corner of the globe.The 13th edition of the show which ran from 15 – 17 May 2012 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, attracted over 15,500 industry professionals – with an increase of 9% in its visitors over last year. In addition, the show also recorded an increase of over 30% in the number of visitors from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as significant increases from other countries including Oman, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey.

“As the true platform for businesses in every sector of the hospitality industry, The Hotel Show has delivered tangible business benefits for both exhibitors showcasing their products and services, and industry visitors sourcing the same, said Frederique Maurell, Exhibition Director for The Hotel Show. “We are delighted that the exhibition has continued to foster growth in the Middle East market and play a key role in offering real opportunities for companies new to the region”.

Response from exhibitors representing all sectors of the hospitality supplies industry was overwhelmingly positive. Carlo Carloni, Export Manager at Catalano, suppliers of ceramic products, said: “This is the second year we have exhibited here and we will definitely return next year. This is a great opportunity to showcase our product. We received many enquiries and leads from visitors and a substantial percentage of them are expected to convert to actual sales.”

Ray Al Redha, General Manager, Mighty Leaf, U.S-based suppliers of premium tea products said: “We are pleased with the results generated by the show this year, having two deal opportunities and more than 30 concrete business leads. We will definitely be returning for the third consecutive year in 2013.”

Participating for the first time at The Hotel Show, Sanuj Kohli, Executive Director at LED Lighting & Design, Laser & Electronics Middle East said: “This was our debut year at The Hotel Show and we were delighted to find it both highly targeted, but also so regional. This was a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our products, and we had between 140 to 150 business enquiries from visitors coming from different GCC countries”.

In addition to the strong business opportunities presented at The Hotel Show, the show also hosted the third edition of The Middle East Spa Awards, the region’s premier spa awards recognising the outstanding quality of services and amenities provided by spas across the region. The show also saw the launch of the first Middle East Hotel Awards to recognise and reward design, product and service excellence in the regional hospitality industry.
The Green Initiative – a show feature to highlight sustainable, energy efficient and eco-friendly solutions from all sectors of the industry, witnessed a record number of exhibitors participating in it. In addition to The Green Initiative, The Hotel Show hosted a Green Day programme of seminars and workshops presented by industry leaders and experts. The line-up of inspirational industry leaders and experts addressed valuable case studies on successful sustainability initiatives in energy reduction, waste management solutions and carbon footprint measurement.

With plans already underway for The Hotel Show 2013 which will take place from 29th September to 1st October 2013, Maurell said: “We are delighted with the response from exhibitors confirming participation in next year’s show. As the largest and most influential hospitality industry show in the region, we will continue to support the industry on all levels – delivering business results, promoting exchange of knowledge, and recognizing excellence. We look forward to another successful show next year.”

Marriott Hotels & Resorts has unveiled the finished transformation of Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort and Spa following a yearlong refurbishment.

The Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort and Spa, now with beautifully redesigned guestrooms and public spaces, is located just twenty minutes from the cultural capital and Mediterranean paradise of Palma, its sandy beaches, and airport. Occupying a serene position nestled in the Mallorcan countryside, the five star resort is a haven for anyone seeking peace and tranquillity.The renovation has injected the hotel’s public spaces with warmth, creating a welcoming yet luxurious ambiance. The heart of the hotel is set to become the new social hub, with a remodelled lobby and lobby bar. A versatile and multi-purpose space, the new lobby gives guests choice to relax, work, and socialize. Adding to the ambiance, the Llevant Lobby Bar is a vibrant and inviting setting to enjoy traditional Spanish tapas and superb cocktails. New open-air chill out lounges on the hotel patios provide the perfect excuse to sit back and watch the day go by.

The hotel’s 142 guestrooms and eight suites have been revitalized with new carpets, curtains, armchairs, lamps, mattresses and bed linen, and all of the balconies have been renovated enabling the marvellous views to be enjoyed in even greater splendour.

The resort offers something for every age and energy level. Two beautifully appointed 18-hole golf courses and huge driving range make the resort a Mecca for golfers. The Golf Club itself has enjoyed a number of improvements in recent years, with many areas levelled out and reseeded with Bermuda grass. Flood-lit tennis courts, and complimentary volleyball and basketball courts, outdoor pool, and 24/7 fitness centre, are just some of the other fitness offerings.

Other highlights of the resort include an on-site kids club, and the renowned Spa Son Antem with heated indoor and outdoor pool, Jacuzzis, saunas and offering a wide variety of spa and holistic treatments. The hotel provides a wealth of dining options, such as the remodelled fine dining restaurant El Olivar serving tastes of the Mediterranean, and La Vista Verde with sun drenched, panoramic terraces for international cuisine. Meetings and events are expertly catered for with personalized service and expansive meeting space and large ballroom.

UK

GBPUSD started trading yesterday at 1.5474, rising to 1.5523 throughout the morning, but lost all its gains when the US markets opened, dropping to 1.5394 which is a level not seen since January. Overnight trade saw the pair drop further and is currently trading around 1.5280.
Sterling continued to trade within a tight range against the euro beginning the day at 1.2474 and closing around 70 pips off where we started at 1.2457. Again, sterling has struggled during overnight trading and this morning GBPEUR has opened around 1.2422.GBPUSD has quickly returned to the spotlight with a 5.1% drop through May and a 1.8% tumble just over the past three trading days. Risk aversion has become a common sight, but Cable’s performance stands out even further through Thursday’s session because the remaining majors were relatively steady while other sentiment reads (like the Dow Jones Industrial Average) levelled out. As the saying goes, the nail that sticks out furthest is hammered down. GBPUSD may have over-run the market’s tolerance or it could prove the leader for a broader trend. The future we choose could very well depend on what happens with Friday’s US Nonfarm Payrolls.

UK Manufacturing PMI for May came in below expectations at 45.9 from the forecast of 49.8.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

US Prelim GDP q/q came out as expected at 1.9%, a relatively positive figure which led to GBPUSD dropping back to 1.5477 from 1.5504 directly after the release.

The weekly number of individuals who filed for unemployment in the US increased and consumer spending came out at +2.7% vs. +2.9% in the advanced report with corporate profits growing at the slowest pace in three years.

Thursday morning trade saw the EURUSD continue to test 1.24, but by mid-afternoon we saw it break through support and moved into a new 2 year low overnight at 1.2321, this morning we are trading around 1.2350 and a test of support around 1.23 is expected over today’s session.

IMF Deputy MD Nemat Shafik has said the 2013 deadline for euro zone countries to bring budget deficits below 3% may have to be postponed which is exactly what Spain had agreed on Wednesday.

Ireland began casting ballots on Thursday for what will be their Third referendum in four years on Europe, with opinion polls pointing to a “yes” vote that could ease concerns about its funding prospects and save Europe a headache it can do without.

A New Greek opinion poll published this morning showed the anti-bailout SYRIZA party lead with a six-point lead over their conservative pro-bailout rivals ahead of a key election on June 17.

Euler Hermes SA the world’s biggest credit insurer, said it will no longer cover new shipments of goods to Greece because of the risks attached to the nation leaving the Euro currency and customers defaulting on payments
Japan’s Finance Minister Jun Azumi pledged to take “decisive” action if excessive gains in the currency persist. Ironically, after his comments the Yen gained around 1.5% versus sterling. GBPJPY has declined over 7.5% in May, from 130.60 on May 2nd to trade this morning at 120.44 which is close to a four month low. EURJPY moved to a low of 96.68, a level that hasn’t been seen for over 12 years.

Australian Building Approvals for April came out well under forecast at -8.7% against a predicted 0.3%. This was following a rise of 6% in March meaning approvals were down 24.1% for the year ending April.

Swiss Retail sales were released almost flat this morning, rising 0.1% in April, this figure is very disappointing in comparison with the 4.7% growth registered the previous month.

Not the fleece you understand, the whole sheepskin. The process is a bit shocking to be honest – I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the floor in the works didn’t date back to the monks making vellum for writing on as a part of their ecclesiastical occupation – it is after all next to Buckfast Abbey, and vellum was used by the monks to record our history from the dark ages onwards (If you want the story of England I can whole heartedly recommend Bernard Cornwell’s series on King Alfred). The processes are, unbelievably, positively medieval.The West Country once employed 5,000 people in producing sheepskin and sheepskin products but poor management has led to the total collapse of the industry, and Devonia too would have gone without the support of parent company Axminster. It now remains the last tannery producing sheepskin products in England, producing hides and sheepskin rugs for use in (amongst others) Rolls Royce and Bentley cars. Better known of course as Volkswagen and BMW.

Many wool buyers are now buying their fleeces as futures, sometimes buying and storing 3 years production as the price is chased up by Chinese buyers. Where a fleece once cost 70 pence to take off a sheep’s back and earned a farmer perhaps twenty pence, now a fleece fetches some £8 as prices soar. A tanned woolskin fetches around £60 upwards. The UK sheep herd is around 40 million animals, 17 million being slaughtered for meat each year. Storage of fleeces is full of risk as pests can easily destroy the value. For hides salting immediately after slaughter is required to prevent flies etc. breeding on the skins – hence the green colour as sheepskins arrive at the tannery from the slaughterhouse. The UK is always going to be one of the top 15 world sheep economies because of climate and topography.

I can already hear you going yuck. Bear with me there is more to come…

Nestled in the grounds of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, the Westin Abu Dhabi Hotel is a luxury destination resort and focal point of a community that has been built in and around the sprawling fairways and greens of this championship course. Owned by Abu Dhabi-based development company, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the interiors were designed by the international hospitality design firm Gettys. The concept for the whole resort was that of creating an oasis. TDIC wanted this property to feel like a departure from some of the newer urbanized resorts in the city.

The exterior of the building is clad with rough, chiselled limestone that wraps an extensive amount of the façade. The designers continued this natural element into the interiors, creating a lobby of dynamic proportions where stone is complimented by bronze and metal screen partitions. Unexpectedly undulating and angled ceiling design also relates back to the organic nature of the property’s architecture.

The designers kept the lobby décor to a minimum, focusing on a simple palette. From the top of the grand staircase, crafted from hand-awled reclaimed wood and seeded glass balustrade panels, guests can look through 45 foot tall floor-to-ceiling windows out to the golf course, creating an intimacy with the greenery of the fairways, essentially creating a massive picture window.

To create this dramatic arrival experience, different materials and lighting were combined that referred to the ancient history of the region. The back wall of the front and concierge desks features translucent slices of petrified wood suspended behind the embossed bronze desks. The complex circular striations of the wood fossils provide a striking visual experience as well as adding an additional layer of texture and colour.

As the hotel has several grand spaces the guestroom experience was designed to act as a form of departure from public area activity. They viewed the guest journey as a series of crafted experiences starting from departing “real life” at the hotel arrival and walking through the grandeur of the public areas to the more intimate guestroom corridors culminating in the guest rooms and suites. These corridors compress the journey to each guest’s room in terms of scale, lighting and materials which become saturated, deeply toned and restful.

Upon entering the guestroom, visitors find themselves in rooms that are light and bright with high ceilings and wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to the golf course. All guestrooms and suites have golf course views’ so scenery is the primary focus. The team then layered different textures and tonality to create a restful guestroom experience. The resulting palette combined caramel, honey, cream and walnut, with sea blue and sunset orange accents. The overall detailing incorporated stone, custom styled wool carpeting, several complimentary wood species, and rich bronze appointments.

Guest baths feature tile surrounds made from a natural horn mosaic that infused luxury and craftsmanship into the guest bath experience. The artisanal tiles pick up on local colours of medjool date, raffia, and coconut complimented by a vanity washstand with a hand hammered nickel finish; thus giving a classic washstand look but with a modern twist.

Continued on page two…

The Monastero Santa Rosa, a stunning 20-bedroom hotel converted from a 17th Century monastery, has now opened. The first guests through the doors were Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco, who chose the hotel to relax with friends, including renowned New Zealand rugby star Byron Kelleher, before the Monaco Grand Prix. Perched on the cliff edge of Cape d’Orso between Amalfi and Positano, Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa has been affectionately restored by its American owner into an exclusive boutique hotel with a superb Santa Maria Novella spa.

Dramatically located on this iconic coastline – an area already boasting the most beautiful vistas in the world – the opening of Monastero Santa Rosa will bring a truly different style of hospitality to the Amalfi Coast. It is a distinctively more modern luxury hotel, built directly into the side of the cliff with the floors connected by a glass-front elevator allowing panoramic views of the hotel’s gardens and the sea. It combines an historical setting with completely unique rooms and boasts an incredible infinity pool literally ‘falling’ off the cliff.

The hotel consists of a Ristorante, a heated infinity pool, traditional landscaped gardens spread over five tiers, a historic herb garden and a private 12th Century Chapel. The Executive Chef, Christoph Bob will bring a vast amount of experience to the hotel, having held chef positions in some of the top restaurants throughout Europe, including Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant at the Plaza Athenee in Paris.

UK

Sterling rallied against the euro yesterday hitting a new high of 1.2544 very close to the two year high set a few weeks ago of 1.2575. Sterling looks set to continue to be supported against the euro as investors look for an alternative to the European single currency.Against the US dollar sterling lost ground, falling to a 4-month low as concerns about the health of the European economy, and in particular the Spanish banking system pushed investors to safe haven currencies.

UK data on Wednesday showed Britain’s property market picking up in April. UK mortgage approvals rose well above forecasts to 51.8k in April from 51.07k in March and Net mortgage lending grew by £1.139bn. Also above expectations and the biggest increase since January.

Money supply M4 growth also rose 0.7% month-on-month in April, up 3.8% from a year ago and its highest since first quarter 2009.

A positive day of data for the UK yesterday could help to BoE members to swerve away from additional quantitative easing at their meeting next month, although unless the data continues to improve it cannot be ruled out completely.

UK home prices rose in May, supported by a lack of residential property for sale, mortgage lender Nationwide revealed this morning. On average prices rose 0.3% from April and fell 0.7% compared with a year earlier. In April, home prices fell 0.3% on the month and by 0.9% in annual terms.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro fell to the lowest in almost two years against the US dollar as Spain struggled to rescue its troubled banks, adding to signs the European debt crisis is spreading to the region’s larger economies. The US dollar pushed through key resistance at 1.24 and EURUSD fell to 1.2383, a new two year high, before losing a little ground later in the session, closing at 1.2408.

Concerns are growing that Spain may be forced to seek an international bailout. Ten-year Spanish bond yields are trading above 6.5%, dangerously close to the 7% level beyond which borrowing costs are deemed unsustainable over the long-term.

US benchmark boring costs plunged to levels not seen since 1946 and those for Germany and the UK and hit all-time lows as investors took flight to safety in response to the debt crisis across Europe.

With risk appetite drying up the Japanese yen and US dollar strengthened as investors sought safer assets after a European report showed economic confidence dropped more than economists estimated in May. The euro fell for a seventh day versus the yen, the longest losing streak in four months, after Italy sold less than its maximum target at a debt auction. Spain has taken the focus away from Greece in the short term with investors concerned that a much larger piece of the European economic pie may be in trouble.

Investors are resigned to more turmoil until EU policymakers take more radical decisions. This could come in the form of either the ECB buying Italian and Spanish bonds on an unlimited basis or even Eurozone countries agreeing to a fiscal union by pooling all debt. Spain is too big for half measures so the next move from EU leaders will have to show total commitment to avoid a complete crisis

Amid the European crisis the 8 nations that are waiting to join the euro have been told by the ECB that they are not ready. Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Sweden are not yet ready to join the 17 nations that use the euro. Some would say given the current situation, this is a lucky escape.

Australia’s bonds rose and its currency touched a six-month low as concern Spain will struggle to rescue its banks curbed demand for assets linked to growth.

This morning German Retail Sales hit a 9 month high rising by 0.6% versus the 0.0% expected helping the euro to recover from its lows in early European opening trade. On a year on year basis however, retail Sales declined by -3.8%.

With its 50th birthday having been celebrated last year, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, which started as one hotel in Toronto, has now expanded to 86 hotels in 35 countries. This summer sees the company’s flagship and hometown property to a new location at 60 Yorkville Avenue.The landmark Hotel will offer an immaculately designed two-story spa, Café Boulud and dbar by international restaurateur and Chef Daniel Boulud, glass-enclosed event spaces, and, of course, Four Seasons guest rooms: 259 personalized accommodations including 42 suites.

“We are quite literally at the intersection where business and pleasure come together in Toronto,” says Regional Vice President and General Manager Dimitrios Zarikos, referring to the Hotel’s coveted address at the corner of Bay Street and Yorkville Avenue. “Four Seasons has not only been connected to the Toronto community but we have also welcomed visitors to this dynamic city for half a century, and we are taking that tradition and those relationships with us into our new home.”

Sofitel is pleased to announce the opening of Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, the second Sofitel in Bangkok, in Thailand. This new flagship unveils many of Sofitel’s new luxury French concepts for the first time in South East Asia.With the opening of this hotel, Sofitel is diversifying its offer in this city with a very French signature reflecting the French tradition of elegance, savoir-faire and hospitality. Located on the central business district this hotel with 345 rooms including 37 suites represents perfectly the new positioning: a luxury hotel with a difference, individual and non-standardised.

It is the first flagship Sofitel in South East Asia whilst Sofitel Bangkok Silom is rebranding to become a Pullman hotel. At the same time, Sofitel So Bangkok has been launched as the first urban design hotel under Sofitel So label, offering a different experience of discovering Bangkok.

French Elegance in Bangkok
A key attraction of the hotel for visitors and locals alike is the skyline restaurant, L’Appart, which recreates the ambience of a luxurious apartment. Directed by French chef Aurélien Poirot, L’Appart is based on a Haussmann-style apartment with beautiful bespoke areas including a library, a living room, a kitchen with an adjacent dining room, and lounge area with a bar. The warm and welcoming space delights guests with its interactive open kitchen concept, transforming Bangkok’s hottest new venue as the evening progresses. Outside tables overlook a stunning backdrop of the city skyline.

There is also a strong French element in the Sofitel’s restaurant, Voilà! The hotel’s premier restaurant showcases a ‘cuisines on stage’ concept that features French cuisine prepared from stoves and a Parisian-style Rôtisserie, Western, Asian dishes, Middle Eastern and Thai delicacies, aromatic pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven, and an array of sumptuous desserts available all day.

Located in the lobby is Le Macaron, which is a charming patisserie and delicatessen with an inviting outdoor terrace that features a vast selection of pastries, desserts, and savory items from the team of in house chefs.

A feature of the hotel is also the elegant Club Millésime lounge located on the 31st floor. With its state of the art business facilities, chic style, spectacular views, spacious lounge areas and the French flair for food and wine, the Club Millésime lounge offers a refined and welcoming space.

The Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit also has some of the largest meetings and function facilities in Bangkok for meetings and other events. In addition, leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool with pool bar, fitness centre, beauty salon and Le Spa with L’Occitane, the first luxury spa in Thailand to offer elegant L’Occitane products from the South of France.

UK

The pound was within a penny of a three-and-a-half-year high against the euro after Spain said it may need to sell bonds for a banking rescue, underpinning demand for alternatives to the 17-nation shared currency. Sterling has appreciated 4.3% this year against the Euro.The UK Distributive Trades Survey for May came in at 21%, well above the -7% expected. This is an indicator of short-term trends in the UK retail and wholesale distribution sector. The pound pushed further on against the euro after the data moving from around 1.2490 to the afternoon session high of 1.2532. This morning the pair is trading just above support at 1.25, as we saw yesterday another attempt to test resistance at 1.2539 is likely.

Against the US dollar, sterling started trading around 1.57, but fell to around 1.5609, the lowest since January 25th, after the issues surrounding Spain caused investors to seek the safe haven of the dollar. Low support levels have broken to under 1.55 now and sterling could experience further declines if we see a break and close below 1.5570.

This morning Net lending to Individuals m/m rose to £1.4bn, which was higher than consensus. UK Mortgage Approvals also rose slightly more than forecast.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro fell against most of its major counterparts as a debate in Spain about how to fund a recapitalization of the Bankia group increased concern the monetary union’s sovereign-debt crisis was deepening. Spain backtracked on a plan to use government debt instead of cash to bailout BFA-Bankia, the nation’s third-largest lender. The government was considering using an injection of treasury debt instead of cash to recapitalize the lender.

EURUSD started trading around 1.2570 yesterday, but fell below 1.25 as German 10-year bund yields dropped to a record high, and Spains banking crisis weighed. It then fell to around 1.2457 this morning after Bank of Spain Governor Miguel Angel Fernandez Ordonez resigned a month early amid criticism over the nationalization of Bankia group.

The euro slid further this morning, hitting 1.2457 the weakest since July 1, 2010. Against the yen it fell to 98.80 on it’s longest losing streak in four months.

The focus is on elections in Greece next month that could determine whether it defaults and triggers contagion throughout the Eurozone. By contrast, Ireland’s referendum tomorrow on whether to ratify Europe’s new fiscal treaty is passing almost unnoticed. Austerity in Ireland has been imposed by a coalition government and as in Greece, the government is warning that unless voters cast their ballots the right way, the country will be cut off from access to funding provided by the European Stability Mechanism. That would certainly trigger an Irish default.

German CPI for May came in at -0.2%, slightly worse than the -0.1% expected. The YoY figure showed 1.9%, slightly down from the 2.0% expected.

US Consumer Confidence for May showed a decline to 64.9 compared to the consensus figure of 70.
Home values in 20 US cities fell at the slowest pace in more than a year as lower borrowing costs and an improving job market gave property sales a boost. Property values fell 2.6% YoY after a 3.5% drop in February. These figures were on par with consensus and this had little effect on the dollar as last week’s New Home purchases data was very positive and gave traders an early indication that the housing market was recovering.

China has no plan to introduce stimulus measures to support growth on the scale unleashed during the depths of the global credit crisis in 2008.

Norway’s central bank will not intervene in the currency markets to avoid a stronger krone in the event of Greece leaving the euro and any resulting economic turmoil in the euro zone, its Governor Oystein Olsen told Dow Jones Newswires Tuesday.

Canada’s dollar headed for the biggest monthly loss since September against its US counterpart as speculation Europe’s debt crisis will worsen damped appetite for risk.

PPHE Hotel Group Limited, owner and operator of full service upscale and lifestyle hotels, today announced the completion of the one month refurbishment of Park Plaza Nottingham’s meeting rooms.Park Plaza Nottingham, based on Maid Marian Way, caters for up to 175 delegates or dinners and has renovated 12 meeting rooms which include a conference suite with panoramic views, the Vista Suite which can be split into five separate rooms and the Park Suite which boasts an outside terrace. The air conditioned rooms all received new contemporary designed carpeting, curtains and redecoration and benefit from Wi-Fi throughout and natural daylight.

Park Plaza Nottingham also offers 178 rooms for delegate and leisure bookings, a fitness room and the award-winning Chino Latino Pan-Asian restaurant and cocktail bar.

Tom Waldron-Lynch, general manager Park Plaza Nottingham commented: “The renovation has meant that our meeting rooms not only meet, but exceed the upscale standard delegates expect when booking their meetings and events with us. We pride ourselves on providing the highest service and support to our business guests and believe the new modern refresh to our rooms should position us well for a future focus in this market.”

Clean lines and crisp angles converge to form Linea; bathroom furniture of minimalist design that screams opulent hotel style. Full depth drawers feature concealed ergonomic handles and extra height and generous proportions to offer versatile and organised storage options with numerous layout concepts. Tower units add a further element of luxury and feature six practical display shelves to house all bathroom essentials, with the optional extra for a fixed laundry basket.This stunning range of wall hung units has been designed with impressive practical elements and with the flexible option of a white high gloss round or square basin shape, to reflect personal taste and meet the desires of today’s style savvy homeowner. Boasting expansive worktop space, Linea basins also feature a clever anti-drip edge to keep unwanted water spills to a minimum.

Available in Graphite, Teakwood, Blackwood and White Gloss finishes, all in a choice of square and round sizes; 60cm, 75cm, 100cm, 120cm and a tower unit.

A. Linea 120 Unit in Teak with Linea Round Basin
B. Linea 120 Unit in Teak with Linea Round Basin
C. Linea Tower Unit in Teak with laundry basket for lower compartment
D. Linea 100 Unit in Blackwood with Linea Round Basin
E. Linea 75 Unit in Blackwood with Linea Round Basin
F. Linea 75 Unit in Blackwood with Linea Round Basin
G. Linea 100 Unit in White Gloss with Linea Square Basin
H. Linea 100 Unit in White Gloss with Linea Square Basin
I. Linea 120 Unit in Graphite with Linea Square Basin
J. Linea 120 Unit in Graphite with Linea Square Basin
K. Linea 120 Unit in Graphite with Linea Square Basin with main drawer organiser

www.bauhaus-bathrooms.co.uk

UK

GBPEUR touched a high of 1.2524 yesterday after reaching the low of 1.2439, this morning markets have opened at just under 1.25 and strong German CPI data this afternoon could support the euro further today.GBPUSD closed trading close to where it had opened yesterday, achieving a high of 1.5716 and low of 1.5672 – close to a two-month low of 1.5630. Strong technical support is in place at 1.5577 and with strong resistance in at 1.5778 we can expect the pair to trade around 1.57 unless any major unexpected news emerges today.

Further indication of the BoE willingness to extend the QE program came in the form of a statement by MPC member Ben Broadbent on Monday. He explained the threat of an “extreme outcome” to the Eurozone crisis has made capital more expensive, weakened investment and the UK’s supply capacity. Most importantly he said the MPC would respond to any such extreme outcome by providing more stimulus to the UK economy.

Spencer Dale, the central bank’s chief economist, said in a radio interview that monetary policy is “highly stimulatory” and its effects will continue to flow through the economy.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

EURUSD made a slight drop overall in the session, moving in a tight range of 1.2622 to 1.2524, the European markets closed at 1.2536 and overnight it tested the support at 1.2500 before rebounding up to the current levels around 1.2570. Traders expect this pair to continue its volatile downward trend as the uncertainty around Europe builds.

As mentioned yesterday, the Spanish government announced a €19bn bailout of Bankia in the form of sovereign debt which may act as collateral. The Spanish main stock index hit a 9 year low after the news was published and 10 year sovereign bond yields hit 6.5% and are fast approaching the 7% danger level considered to be “unsustainable” by analysts.

The Spanish government are looking to raise €20-30bn from an ambitious plan of privatizations, which is expected to be approved before the summer. Units currently targeted include rail operators, state lottery organisers and water utility providers.

Greece’s Conservatives have regained a lead before elections on June 17. This increase in support for the pro-bailout party lifted riskier currencies and triggered a short-covering rally in the euro. At the same time the EFSF has disbursed €18bn to the country’s four largest banks as agreed in their previous tranche. This will enable the banks to once again borrow from the ECB.

JPMorgan raised its 2012 forecasts for the US dollar Monday, predicting a rise against all major units except the yen based on Greece’s lurch towards a euro exit and China’s ongoing slowdown. It lowered forecasts for AUD and now sees it at $0.96 against USD in Q2 and Q3. USD/JPY was maintained in the high 70s for the medium term.

The Governor of the National Bank of Poland, Marek Belka, said yesterday that the country is seeing a slowdown in economic growth, but it is “not dramatic.” Belka said during a presentation at the Central Reserve Bank of Peru that Poland’s GDP is “cruising” at 4% growth. He also added, however, that “the economy is slowing down.” GBPPLN is currently trading at 5.473, the Zloty has weakened nearly 7% in just over a month from 5.061 seen in April.

Japan’s Overall Household Spending YoY for April was published just above the 2.4% consensus. Unemployment figure for the same period was also marginally worse than the 4.5% consensus. Retail sales for the same period materialised at 5.8% against the 6.3% consensus and 10.3% previous.

Australian HIA New Home sales MoM in April were released early this morning and demonstrated an increase on the 3% previous, which contributed to the rate dropping from 1.5970 down to 1.5870 overnight. Sterling is expected to continue to test the resistance in place at 1.60 during the coming sessions.

Swiss Consumption data for April from UBS was also released earlier today at 1.41 versus the previous 1.22. The market did not really react to the news though and GBPCHF continues to trade close to 1.50, having traded in a tight range of just 30 pips for the last 12 hours.

Iain Hardman is the Deputy Managing Director of multi award-winning East Lodge Country House Hotel in Rowsley, in the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District. He outlines some of the top trends for 2012.

2012 is set to be a critical year for hotel owners throughout the UK. The twin celebrations of the Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympics on the horizon, presents a unique opportunity for hoteliers, with the expected flood of visitors set to give the whole industry a financial boost estimated at anywhere between £100-£150 million.Many in the industry have been preparing for this moment for the last few years, looking to capitalise on these signature events. Only hotels at the top of their game and up to speed with the latest trends in the hospitality industry can hope for a competitive edge when competing for this potential influx of new business.

When looking at current trends in the hotel industry, there are some general themes which are solid and evolving and coming to fruition now, and these need to be distinguished from some of the fads that come along from time to time only to fade away. Some of these solid trends, particularly in terms of food and décor are clearly here to stay for the foreseeable future and are the ‘ones to watch’ for 2012. The areas trending now in the four areas of décor, multi-media, food and ‘value adds’.

Décor
Boutique style is still very much in vogue. Traditional and modern hotels have always appealed to different types of guest, but the modern traveller is now expecting more, with even the most traditional of hotels and chains expected to have the latest in modern touches of style. This has seen many venues become ‘boutique’ in style and here the challenge is to deliver the modern style of décor demanded, while remaining in keeping with the often very traditional features and historical significance of some hotel buildings.

While boutique is still very much a buzz word, its original meaning was to distinguish, small, elite hotels, specialising in fine dining and a high standard of personalised customer service from some of the larger chains. While this still remains the case, there has been a clear effort on the part of everyone to up their game and deliver in these areas too. This trend is certainly going to continue and is forcing Boutique hotels in the original sense of the word to themselves offer greater choice.

This trend also extends from the interior generally, to specifics like the restaurant. Choice is becoming a watchword for many consumers now and having one basic offering is now proving insufficient. While many guests continue to demand the classical restaurant setting – others want the availability of other options, such as a private dining area or a Chef’s Table and many venues are now looking at these options as a way of delivering additional customer satisfaction and as a means for delivering a feast for the eyes as much as the appetite.

Continued on page two…

UK

GBPUSD opened trading on Friday at 1.5676 and saw little movement throughout the day reaching a high of 1.5686 before eventually closing at 1.5644. With sterling closing the session below the 1.5700 level and posted a fourth consecutive weekly loss against the US dollar, weighed down by broad risk aversion and increasing speculation the BoE could resume its bond purchases. The pair remained steady over the weekend and opened the markets this morning at just over 1.57. With strong support now built around 1.5533 the pair could remain range-bound between there and the top resistance at 1.5762 until the questions over QE are answered.Gilts advanced for a fifth week, 2yr,5yr & 10yr yields dropped as government reports showed GDP shrank more than initially estimated and retail sales declined. UK bonds rallied as minutes of the Bank of England’s meeting showed the MPC decision to halt its £325bn QE program was “finely balanced.”

GBPEUR opened trading on Friday at 1.2458 hitting a small drop to the low of 1.2426 before a steady recovery over the 1.25 mark, hitting an afternoon high of 1.2530 before settling at 1.2498 at the close. This morning markets have opened back around 1.2460.Technical long term support remains at 1.2345 and the resistance is as high as 1.2639 now. A close above 1.25 will confirm sterling is still on course to progress during the near term.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Today is a non-trading day in the US so the markets may be a little subdued due to the lack of data and liquidity.

The euro had its biggest weekly loss since December against the US dollar as Greece’s pro-bailout party gained in the polls and is now leading the race ahead of left wing party Syriza. Ultimately concerns over a Greek exit have dramatically decreased.

Greece’s New Democracy, which supports the European Union’s bailout plan, was placed first in all six opinion polls this weekend as campaigning continued for next month’s general election. Antonio Samaras, the leader of Greece’s New Democracy party explained the consequences of a euro exit, saying Greek incomes, bank deposits and property values would lose at least half their value within days, while food prices would rise by a quarter.

On Friday EURUSD opened at 1.2582 and fell to the day’s low of 1.2499 before closing at 1.2515. Over the weekend the euro continued to weaken, with the pair posting a low of 1.2496, this morning the pair has recovered slightly to trade around 1.2590. We expect a rally towards the resistance at 1.2630 during the days session.

Interestingly, on Friday afternoon EURUSD traded lower than GBPEUR, this was the first time since June 2010 that the two pairs have crossed over.
Spain have this morning revealed they may fund their takeover of Bankia with sovereign debt, technically meaning that they are using ECB funds.

The Swiss franc saw the biggest loss against the US dollar last week, falling 2.1% to 95.95 centimes per dollar. It was the biggest weekly loss since November, CHF also touched the weakest level in two months versus the euro on May 24 amid speculation the central bank may take action to discourage investment in the nation through taxing deposits.

Brazil’s real rose 1.8% against the US dollar to 1.9874 after the central bank sold currency swaps through auction for four consecutive days to stem the decline against the greenback.

Bank of Japan policymakers agreed to ease monetary policy in April to ensure the economy resumes a recovery, but signalled a pause by complaining of a “misunderstanding” in markets that they will keep offering monetary stimulus automatically until 1% inflation was in sight. GBPJPY has dropped from 131.64 to 124.18 in less than a month. So the need for stimulus this month is greater than when they last intervened.

NZDUSD declined to the weakest since November at 0.7642, The kiwi’s losses were limited as Moody’s cited the government’s deficit and debt trajectories in affirming its AAA rating.

Hotel Junior Suites take on a different meaning in NH Hotels with the launch of new concept rooms designed especially for kids. Launching at the Hesperia Lanzarote and tailored especially for younger guests, this new breed of Junior Suites have been created to offer a safe and magical haven filled with fun.Following interviews with families and children staying at the hotel over a period of two years, the NH Group discovered that what kids desired most from a holiday was somewhere they could call their own; a place where kids are king. So the Hotel Junior Suites were born, providing fuel for imagination and everything children could need or want for a fun-filled family holiday.

Creatively designed and tailored to suit girls and boys of different ages, the Junior Suites feature bunk beds, themed bed linen, toys and imaginative children’s décor, including mirror stickers, ceiling mobiles and colourful bathroom fittings. Family safety has also been prioritised, with all Junior Suites featuring safety plugs, padded table corners and ultrasound mosquito repellent.

Boredom blues have been banished with a free borrowing service offering endless entertainment. On loan to Junior Suite guests are Wiis, Playstations, telescopes, electronic dartboards and music centres, as well as a range of family board games, books and films – all available in multiple languages and suitable for a range of different age group. Of course, a film library wouldn’t be the same without movie snacks – the hotel will provide these complimentary too!

Junior Suite guests can also enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits, including discounts and promotions to external attractions such as the Aqua Park and submarine experience, children’s room service with all their favourite dishes and snacks, kids themed toiletries and bathrobes, a healthy child-friendly minibar and a special surprise treat each and every day you’re there.

Hesperia Lanzarote also houses an extensive and free kids club, offering sports sessions and outside activities, as well as fun and educational workshops. Once a week, families can also request a “Goodnight with Hesperio” service, where the hotel’s friendly hippo mascot will come and tuck you in and wish you a good night’s sleep.

There are currently seven kid’s rooms available, each accommodating families of three to four people. Rooms can also be tailored towards age and gender at the time of booking.

With numerous restaurants, bars, a stunning spa area, paddle courts and three outdoor swimming pools there is plenty for families to experience and enjoy.

Just five minutes from the island’s airport, Hesperia Lanzarote is situated next to the exclusive Puerto Calero yacht harbour, which boasts some of the most exclusive fashion shopping and fine restaurants in Lanzarote. From the hotel there is direct access to a volcanic sandy beach with a huge deck area and a bar for enjoying the sunshine with drinks and light snacks. At night the deck also hosts a superb Chill Out Bar “Lanz Beach Club“ in front of the beach.

This December will see the grand opening of The Alpina Gstaad in the heart of the Bernese Alps. The first luxury hotel to be built in Gstaad in 100 years, The Alpina Gstaad is set in an exclusive hill top area in Oberbort, just five minutes from the centre of Gstaad village, overlooking picturesque Saanenland. A contemporary interpretation of traditional Swiss architecture, the hotel is part of a $337 million luxury development that includes 56 spacious rooms and suites, private apartments and two chalets surrounded by five acres of garden. The hotel will include the first European outpost of the renowned Japanese restaurant MEGU and two further restaurants – a traditional Swiss stubli and a modern European restaurant. Other highlights include a wine tasting room, a cigar room, a private cinema and a 2,000 square metre Six Senses Spa. This will have all the facilities of a five star destination spa including a 25-metre indoor lap pool, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and will offer a range of holistic treatments and rejuvenation programmes.

“We are building the first new five-star hotel in Gstaad in 100 years. The architectural design is inspired by local Swiss alpine culture and the rugged authenticity of the Bernese Oberland. The Alpina Gstaad will be a luxurious hotel providing an indulgent Swiss mountain experience,” explained the owners Marcel Bach and Jean-Claude Mimran.

The Alpina Gstaad will offer its guests the very best insider access to this famously exclusive, yet still authentically Swiss, hilltop village.

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., has recently announced the opening of its 80th hotel with the debut of Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, the brand’s first hotel in Jakarta. Located in the heart of Indonesia’s capital and situated at Jalan Thamrin, one of the most prestigious addresses in the city, Keraton at The Plaza is a distinct and intimate luxury hotel offering a unique, modern interpretation of the rich Indonesian culture. Connoting ‘palace’ in Javanese, Keraton at The Plaza will feature an intimate 140 sumptuously appointed guest rooms and suites, each a haven of Javanese luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows and state of the art in-room technology. The hotel will also introduce the brand’s signature Luxury Collection Concierge service to all guests and promises the most discerning global travellers an extraordinary experience.

Exceptional Art & Design
Already celebrated for its distinct architecture and interior design, Keraton at The Plaza is inspired by the diversity of Indonesia’s geography and culture and features splashes of colour, rich woods, and intricate Batik floral patterns throughout the hotel. The interior design, developed with SCDA Singapore and Burega Farnell Pte. Ltd., celebrates local influence, from an intricate mural of Javanese artwork displayed at the porte-cochère to an abstract piece hand-carved from rick Mahogany wood and adorned with antique gold, depicting a royal welcome. Guests are invited to discover the eclectic collection of art throughout the hotel and in a dedicated gallery, both curated by the renowned design firm Hadiprana Artworks of Jakarta as well as local artists discovered by Mira Hadiprana.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences
Bengawan is the signature restaurant at Keraton at The Plaza, providing an authentic five-star Indonesian dining experience and featuring a customized menu that incorporates local flavours and indigenous ingredients from the islands. Located on the seventh floor with spectacular views of Jakarta, the indoor and outdoor restaurant provides a respite from the bustling city below wrapped in lush foliage and surrounded by soothing water features.

Located on the lobby level, the Keraton Lounge is a delightfully elegant venue serving traditional High Tea each afternoon. Fusing English and Javanese High Tea traditions, the Keraton Lounge features a lavish selection of hot and cold delicacies served with an extensive collection of local and international teas. In the evening, the Keraton Lounge offers classic cocktails, an international selection of wines and a variety of locally-inspired drinks.

A Perfectly Poised Palace
Located on the northwest coast of Java, Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and its largest city. Prominently situated near to Jakarta’s most famous roundabout and the gateway for visitors, Keraton at The Plaza is perfectly poised in the downtown business district, just 30 kilometres from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) and minutes from the enchanting and private oasis.

SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

The May Fair Hotel, London, a luxury retreat for the world’s most famous and distinguished faces, providing them with the superlative in surprising experiences, has now unveiled the ultimate treat for the world’s most pampered derrieres; the UK’s most innovative hotel lavatory. Worth approximately £10,000, the TOTO Neorest Washlet is the most advanced lavatory around. Its futuristic design features a heated seat, integrated bidet with directional warm jets of water, temperature and water massage function, dryer and automatic deodorizer – all operated via a wall-mounted remote control panel.

Spanning an impressive 110 square metres, the elaborate Ebony Suite integrates over £50k of the latest bathroom technology including basins with colour-changing controls that reflect the temperature of the water, a unique bathtub that emits a soothing glow while you soak and a shower which delivers horizontal streams of pulsating water for total body invigoration.

The interior style signatures include dark wood, ivory and chic metallic decoration, whilst the large 34 square metre private terrace, 67 square metre lounge area complete with four-seater dining table, 52” flat screen, kitchenette and separate guest bedroom and bathroom makes the The Ebony Suite ideal for entertaining.

UK

After it emerged yesterday the UK economy shrank more in the first quarter than was initially estimated sterling dropped to 1.2458 against the euro. The revised figure showed an increased contraction of -0.2% to -0.3% but the pound bounced back well later in the session and GBPEUR rose to a high of 1.2498. Overnight the pair hit 1.2503 but has fallen back to 1.2450 this morning. Two consecutive quarters of negative growth means the UK re-entered technical recession last month but the Bank of England decided to keep their stimulus program unchanged in May’s meeting. However, the International Monetary Fund has called on the BoE to increase its bond purchasing program to stimulate growth in the struggling economy.

Net mortgage lending by UK banks dropped back in April as demand for property weakened following the end of the government’s stamp duty tax holiday for first-time buyers, and as rising euro zone tensions weigh more heavily on business and consumer confidence, a survey from the British Bankers Association showed Thursday.

GBPUSD fell to 1.5638 after the 9.30am GDP announcement but traded as high as 1.5719 later in the session before losing most of those gains overnight. The March 12th low of 1.5601 becomes the downside target to breach, a close below this opens the flood gates for further drops but an improvement in risk appetite could support the pound if conditions in the Eurozone improve.

UK stocks rose, rebounding from their biggest selloff in six months, as European Union leaders called on Greek voters to stick to austerity measures if they want to remain in the euro.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro fluctuated against the dollar after touching the weakest level since July 2010 (1.2519) as German manufacturing data dropped. A German index based on a survey of purchasing managers in the manufacturing industry declined to 45 this month from 46.2 in April.

German business confidence fell sharply in May by more than expected after a rise for six months in a row, due to growing uncertainty in the Eurozone, Germany’s IFO Institute said yesterday.

Despite the poor data, EURUSD rose in the afternoon breaking back through the 1.26 mark but euro weakness is the major talking point in the money markets. EURUSD remains below the previous 2012 low of 1.2627 and this will provide a big resistance if euro launches a recovery.

Eurozone governments are at a crucial point and must now “jointly and irreversibly” define their vision of the future, European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said Thursday in a speech where he also emphasized that Europe’s social welfare models are sustainable if managed properly.

Financial markets are punishing some Eurozone assets because of the failure of regional leaders to find a solution to the sovereign debt crisis, Draghi said. The ECB’s extraordinary measures, such as providing longer-term liquidity, only serve to gain time, he added.

The number of US workers filing first-time applications for unemployment benefits ticked down last week, suggesting the employment sector is slowly mending. Initial jobless claims fell by 2k to a seasonally adjusted 370k in the week ended May 19, the Labor Department said Thursday. It was the first time in three weeks that claims fell.

Orders for long-lasting goods increased slightly in April after a steep drop the prior month, continuing the up-and-down recovery for the manufacturing sector. Manufacturers’ orders for durable goods, items such as computers and cars designed to last at least three years, grew by 0.2% to a seasonally adjusted $215.53bn, the Commerce Department said Thursday. The improvement came after orders fell 3.7% to an upwardly revised $215.20bn in March.

Canada’s dollar fluctuated as traders speculated whether European leaders will seek measures to contain Europe’s debt crisis and reports added to concern growth is slowing in the US, the nation’s largest trading partner. The currency advanced from almost a four-month low as global stocks and commodities gained even after data showed European services and manufacturing shrank more than forecast in May. European leaders clashed over how to stem the sovereign- debt crisis that began in Greece and has wiped about $4 trillion from equity markets worldwide this month.

The South African Reserve Bank kept interest rates at a 30-year low on Thursday as the euro zone’s financial crisis threatens to crimp growth and stoke inflation in Africa’s largest economy. The ramifications of a Greek exit from the euro were “a significant part” of policy makers’ discussions in deciding interest rates, Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus said after announcing the bank would leave its key borrowing rate at 5.5%.

The Swiss franc weakened to its lowest level in two months against the euro amid speculation the central bank may take action to discourage investment in the nation through taxing deposits.

Inspired by its location at the heart of a UNESCO City of Literature, The Westin Dublin has chosen an appropriate theme for a selection of its newly-refreshed guest rooms. In celebration of the city and country’s rich literary tradition, nine of the hotel’s refurbished rooms have been named after Irish writers, including Bram Stoker, Jonathan Swift and Patrick Kavanagh.These nine Writers’ Rooms boast a little extra ‘character’, with a different feature in each room – a balcony, a quirky layout or an interesting view – setting it apart. Named after poets and playwrights, satirists and scribes, these newly refurbished Writers’ Rooms are now known as the Patrick Kavanagh, the Bram Stoker, the Flann O’Brien, the John Millington Synge, the Sean O’Casey, the Dion Boucicault, the Jonathan Swift, the Edmund Burke and the Maria Edgeworth.

The Westin Dublin’s 163 luxury guest rooms now feature two different styles of décor, allowing guests to enjoy either a Traditional or a Contemporary feel.

Traditional rooms are classically elegant featuring mahogany furniture and shades of cream, gold and deep red. These rooms are warm, rich and distinguished and are the favourite of guests who enjoy a touch of local flavour.

The hotel’s Contemporary rooms have recently been entirely refurbished. These guest rooms are stylish and fresh, featuring deep-buttoned chocolate leather and delicate shades of cream, silvery green, beige and champagne, to create a calm yet luxurious atmosphere.

The refresh of the Contemporary rooms was overseen by leading interior designers HBA London. With woven patterns in carpets inspired by some of the masterworks of Irish manuscript illustration, these rooms on the 2nd, 3rd and 5th floors reflect a more contemporary look-and-feel while still retaining references to their Irish location.

Each refurbished room features a Mediahub, allowing guests to stream both audio and video from their laptop, iPad or smartphone to the bedroom television, whilst new bathrooms boast frameless shower screens creating a greater sense of space.

In addition to the nine Writers’ Rooms, four of The Westin Dublin’s most luxurious suites – known collectively as the Library Suites – already bear the names of illustrious writers George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, W.B. Yeats and Oscar Wilde.

Each room at The Westin Dublin is designed to provide a tranquil atmosphere for rejuvenation and relaxation with the attention to detail, quality and luxury that sets the hotel apart. All guest rooms feature the signature Westin Heavenly Bed, Heavenly Spa by Westin bathroom amenities, 32″ HD plasma televisions, a large working desk, phone with voicemail service and high-speed wired/wireless internet access.

Hilton Design Studio Transforms Hotel Design Process while Hilton Valet™ and Hilton Connectivity Station Enhance Guest Experience

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently launched Hilton Design Studio (HDS), a new cutting-edge online tool that transforms the way in which owners, developers and design firms implement the brand’s forward-thinking design narrative. The brand also continues to build on its evolving design narrative with the unveiling of Hilton ValetTM and Hilton Connectivity Station, two ready-to-use owner solutions that enhance the guest experience and demonstrate the influence of technology on design innovations from Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

“Design has a powerful impact on the overall guest experience and brings our brand promise to life in a unique way,” said Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. “The introduction of these new innovations and our design narratives elevates our offering to guests and provides our owners with the most advanced design solution in our industry. As we build new hotels and refresh current properties, Hilton Design Studio is a streamlined solution for implementing designs that are consistent, yet completely unique.”

Extending the Hilton brand’s commitment to well-designed and thoughtful spaces, HDS provides a cost-effective and time-saving solution for Hilton owners, operators and design consultant teams. Now available for hotels across the Americas, HDS will evolve as the central design development platform for guest rooms and public spaces at all Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide. While Hilton Hotels & Resorts continues to grow and evolve with the largest development pipeline in its history and a three-year, $3 billion plan of significant property renovations across the global portfolio, HDS streamlines the arduous design process and minimizes costs.

The new tool allows for creativity and flexibility in the design process while providing parameters based on the brand’s design guidelines. It provides a consistent brand design narrative while embracing cultural nuances and styles across the global Hilton portfolio. HDS offers users a guided experience to explore the Hilton Lobby and new guest room design narratives and an interactive ‘design a guest room’ component built on brand-approved specifications and three style palettes – classic, transitional and modern. The real-time process allows users to quickly choose their guest room layout; style and colour palettes; furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E); flooring and artwork.

A new FF&E concept is Hilton ValetTM, a multifunctional armoire that includes a built-in ironing board and power outlet for an iron, an “unfolding” closet space, a built-in luggage rack, a safe for valuables positioned at standing height, and a refrigerator and coffee/tea service that both discreetly slide into drawers so they are only visible when in use. The result is a streamlined, uncluttered space that helps guests feel at home.

Once a room is designed with HDS, the technology produces detailed design specifications, CADD drawings and six dynamic renderings of each user-generated guest room, saving owners a considerable investment and improving speed of design implementation. The conceptual 3-D drawings utilize an advanced layered-graphic approach, with approximately 1,600 images available to produce the more than one billion unique room design options. Users also have the ability to save multiple projects for easy modifications or reference throughout the design process.

Continued on page two…

The growth of the cruise industry has been remarkable over the last ten years. Their floating hotels vary in size and luxury, but the number of passengers continues to grow and the market changes with ships increasingly catering to families. It is expected that in 2012 over 20 million people will take cruise holidays. In 2011 UK grew its cruise tour visitor numbers by 2.6%.Part of the regeneration for many areas now is the addition of a cruise berth, and the Tourism Society recently published a case study showing the development of the cruise terminal in Liverpool as a part of the waterfront regeneration there (see the Liverpool Hilton, Hilton Indigo, Days Inn Liverpool and other pieces we have published on the regeneration of Liverpool as a destination). The case study formed a part of their focus on Cruise in the Summer issue of their journal ‘Tourism’. This terminal is now being approved by HMG as a strating point for curises not just a brief stop in a voyage, potentially generating more stays at liverpool’s hotels.

Cruise has traditionally been characterised as ‘for the newly-wed the overfed or the nearly dead’ but the growth in the market across demographics is reflected in the addition of climbing walls, flow riders and the development of luxury spa facilities on the ships. The growing diversity of the audience for cruise is partly down to the real term decrease in the cost of cruising, the key to which is the increasing size of the vessels being used. The scale of the ships leads to a need to design berthing facilities that will cope with them and enable shore excursions to take the passengers from their often 2,000 plus cabins.

Liverpool’s terminal is shared with the Isle of Man ferries, and the arrival of the liners attracts large audiences to the quayside as well as vendors and other attractions, bring crowds to the waterfront and helping regeneration as well as putting millions into the local Liverpool economy. It is estimated that passenger spend in 2012 will add £2.7 million into the Liverpool economy, up from 1.5 million in the first year of operation in 2008.

Liverpool has a historic and continuing association with the sea. As a small boy in Liverpool I was the proud possessor of a funnel recognition book so I could identify which shipping line the steamers belonged too. The growth of containerisation took many of the smaller ships out of business and the air charter removed many a passenger liner. it is a delight to see large scale return of liners to the Mersey and other seaports. The growth potential is large and these floating hotels provide thriving business for many design practices, although regrettably our own ship building industry has been allowed to decline so that it is no longer capable of building one of these Leviathans.

©Patrick Goff
Words & Pictures 2012

UK

The pound fell sharply against the US dollar yesterday as data showed UK inflation has relaxed. GBPUSD opened at 1.5843 and fell to a session low of 1.5771. The falls have continued overnight and the pair dropped to 1.5696 this morning.UK Public Sector Net Borrowing came in significantly below expectations. Public corporations and local and central government posted -£18.5bn. Forecasts suggested a figure of £8.5bn, which in itself would have been a considerable drop from the £14.6bn posted last month.

UK Chancellor Osborne asserted that the debt crisis in the Eurozone is reaching a critical point, and the UK is preparing for a range of outcomes. Despite this GBP remained largely range bound against the euro, trading from a low 1.2350 to 1.2390. Overnight the pair has risen sharply and hit 1.2450 in the early hours of the morning.

Bank of England minutes published this morning revealed an 8-1 vote to leave QE unchanged. David Miles as usual was the only member voting for an increase but this time a number of the members mentioned their decision was finely balanced. The MPC are adopting a ‘Wait and See’ policy so additional QE could be on the cards if the economy stalls.

Retail Sales data released this morning showed a sharp decline in April, falling to -2.3% from 2.0% last month. This is exactly the sort of data MPC will be monitoring closely before next month’s policy meeting.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Head of the IMF, Christine Lagarde, said she expected Greece to implement its agreed bailout program. The euro lost value against the US dollar as analysts warn the currency is becoming a crowded short in anticipation of Greece’s June elections.

EURUSD fell yesterday reversing Monday’s gains falling from an open of 1.2807 to an overnight low of 1.2656. The pair opened this morning falling further, dropping below support levels of 1.2650. A close below this today would signal further falls in coming sessions.

Germany will remain firmly opposed to the Eurobonds favoured by the UK and France. Officials are working together to prepare smaller project bonds, and deny these are the gateway to shared liability for sovereign debt.

Consumer confidence in the Eurozone posted a fractionally better than expected figure at -19 as opposed to -20, but this still paints a bleak picture for sentiment.

The potential for a third longer-term refinancing operation from the European Central Bank is increasing, according to ratings agency Fitch. “The likelihood that a third longer-term refinancing operation (LTRO) will be needed by certain banks in ‘peripheral’ Eurozone countries is increasing due to worries over Eurozone sovereigns, limited deleveraging ability and flat-to-negative deposit trends among other factors,” Fitch said in a statement Tuesday.

US Existing Home Sales was released in line with expectation; existing homes make up the majority of total sales and therefore tend to have more impact than New Home Sales on currency.

The US has stated that it will not enter into trade talks with the EU unless its own economic growth is assured.

Marriott International, Inc. has recently announced it has reached the milestone figure of 250 open and signed hotels in Asia, with the 250th hotel to be located in Bo’ao in China. This represents 129 open hotels plus our development pipeline of 121 projects – totalling more than 75,000 rooms in 15 countries.While Asia continues to deliver robust growth, China remains the strongest driver and Marriott International has ambitious plans in the country. With the portfolio expected to double from the current 58 open hotels in the next 3-4 years, Marriott will increase its work force to well over 70,000 associates over the same time period.

Marriott has been a tireless advocate for removing the barriers to travel through its membership in the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and World Economic Forum’s Aviation, Travel and Tourism Council. A primary focus has been on new models of mobility, such as the e-visa and reciprocity among nations to make travel easier. The company is also training its associates and teams outside of China to welcome and host Chinese travellers.

Chinese outbound traveller numbers to the US have risen from about 225,000 in 2002 to almost a million in 2011, and with that number is forecast to increase an astonishing 274% by 2016. China represents the fastest growth – by far – of any country, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. Through its participation on the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, Marriott has helped drive a new national tourism strategy, announced last week, to boost international visitors to the United States to 100 million people annually by 2021. Similarly, U.S. Visitation to Asia is expected to increase by similar numbers.

In conjunction with the midlands region of SBID (the society of British interior design)

Factory tour to see upholstery being manufactured from the frame to the finished article.
Opportunity to view the latest designs and upholstery fabrics from major brands in the newly refurbished pf collections 5000 sq ft showroom facility.Venue: P F Collections Ltd
Oakleaf House
Acton Road
Long Eaton
Nottingham
NG10 1FU

Date: June 19th 2012

This seminar is open to all members of SBID, hoteldesigns.net and the interior design clients of P F Collections Ltd. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Background
The furniture and fire safety regulations became law in 1988. With the passage of time, these regulations sometimes do not receive the detailed attention that they require to make sure that upholstery supplied to clients complies with the law. Many of the people in the industry that were in business when the regulations were introduced and vigorously monitored by trading standards have either retired or left the industry due to the enormous reliance in the uk on imported furniture.

The subject is now receiving greater attention due to increased monitoring by trading standards who report that as much as 50% of furniture supplied fails to comply with the regulations. In the case of non-domestic property, new regulations introduced specifically for that area of the industry is being more vigorously monitored by the health and safety executive and local authorities.

The penalties for supplying non-compliant furniture are very onerous with the most severe cases attracting prison sentences. Closures of buildings due to non-compliance of the new regulations introduced in 2008 are becoming an increasing common occurrence. As with all law, ignorance of the requirements of the law is not a defence.

If you specify, supply or purchase upholstered furniture it is essential that you fully understand the regulations, know what records and information you need to keep to ensure that every piece of upholstery complies with the law.

John Campbell, the managing director of P F Collections Ltd has been involved in the manufacture of upholstery since 1976. He was actively involved in the industry discussions which helped formulate the 1988 regulations, has led discussion groups for numerous organisations over the past few years and will lead this seminar.
At the end of this seminar you will understand the regulations in detail, know what records to keep and be able to demonstrate to any compliance officer that you and your business not only understand the regulations but that you also comply. Seminar notes will be supplied to those attending.

If you know the answers to the following questions then you probably do not need to attend. If you do not then you should book your place immediately.

• The fabric I wish to use does not pass the cigarette test. Can I use it if a fire retardant back coating is applied?
• The fabric is 100% natural fibre but has not been tested by the supplier. Can it be used with an interliner because it contains more than the required 75% natural fibre content?
• Can I supply a sofa in calico for my client to make their own loose covers?
• What labelling is required for the furniture I supply?
• What are the different requirements of the furniture and fire safety regulations 1988 and the regulatory reform (fire safety) order 2005?
• I wish to supply a hotel with sofas and chairs. Which regulations apply?

Agenda
Morning coffee on arrival from 11am
Seminar from 11.30 is followed by a light buffet lunch
The seminar will be held in the newly refurbished 5000sq ft showroom
Tour of the factory is also available for those wishing to see chairs and sofas being manufactured

P F Collections Ltd is situated close to junction 25 of the M1 and trains run regularly from London St Pancras and many other destinations to Long Eaton Station. Collection and return to Long Eaton Station can be arranged.

Book your place now by e mailing

to**********@pf***********.uk











or call him on 0115 9461282

UK

Sterling finished the day on a 2½ week low of 1.2356 against the euro as improved sentiment played in the build-up to EU leaders meeting on Wednesday. It had hit a day high of 1.2404 following the opening of American markets.PM David Cameron said on Monday not enough had been done to end the Eurozone debt crisis but reassured savers worried by a downgrading of Spanish banks that British banks were well regulated and well capitalized.

The BoE bowed to outside pressure on Monday, launching 3 independent reviews to learn lessons from the financial and economic crisis, but immediately ran into criticism that their scope was too limited and technical. The reviews will be finished in October in time to inform the Treasury when they are selecting the next governor of the BoE to replace Sir Mervyn King next year.

UK CPI data released this morning showed inflation in the UK has dropped more than expected to 3.0% from 3.5% last month. The fall will be welcomed by UK householders but the gives the BoE more room for additional QE, subsequently the pound has now fallen below 1.58 against the US dollar is around 1.2350 versus the euro.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The US dollar remained largely unchanged versus its major rivals on Monday. The start of the trading week has seen little economic data that would sway investors in any one direction. Against sterling it closed on par with the open rate at 1.5820 having reached a high of 1.5780 but USDJPY rebounded from Friday’s 3-month low of 78.966 back to around 79.300.

EURUSD also finished off the day pretty much where it started at 1.2815 but as the US markets opened, risk sentiment rate drove the pair temporarily to a session low of 1.2719.

Investors continue to monitor the political situation in Greece as the country awaits a second round of elections due to take place on June 17th. The euro is likely to perform based on how confident investors feel a compromise will be reached and whether Greece can remain in the Eurozone. For the time being, yesterday’s close above 1.28 against the US dollar points suggests further rises but many analysts expect declines if EURUSD can’t break back through 1.2918.

EU leaders meet tomorrow at a special EU summit in Brussels. After discussions at last weekend’s G8 meeting, French President Hollande will be pushing his proposals to promote growth including issuing of Eurobonds. Spain and Italy are said to be keen on the idea whilst German Chancellor Merkel has openly voiced her opposition.

Spain may see another economic contraction in the second quarter of this year, Economy Minister Luis De Guindos said. GDP shrank 0.3% in the first quarter, pushing the economy into a technical recession after 0.3% slump in economic activity in the last quarter of 2011.

Eurozone construction output rebounded sharply in March, the latest figures from Eurostat revealed Monday. Construction output jumped 12.4% month-on-month in March, recovering from a 10.4% slump in February and 0.5% fall in January.

The Conference Board’s leading indicator for China’s economic activity increased at a steady pace in April, suggesting a modest growth ahead. Meanwhile, the underlying indicators showed some degree of weakness, sending a mixed message over the prospects of the economy.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand said earlier that inflation expectations for the second quarter ticked down to 2.4%, from 2.5% in the previous quarter dampening expectations for a rate hike in the near future.

Australian and New Zealand dollars strengthened against their major counterparts as Asian stocks rose on hopes that China will take more measures to prevent a rapid economic slowdown. The Aussie climbed to 5-day highs of 0.9923 against USD and 78.82 against the yen. The NZD also advanced, hitting 5-day highs of 0.7676 against USD and 60.98 against the yen.

Hilton Worldwide and Schiphol Real Estate, Schiphol Group’s real estate subsidiary, have today signed an agreement to introduce a new landmark 433 guest room Hilton Hotels & Resorts hotel to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, to be designed by prominent Dutch architects, Mecanoo. The new hotel will replace the current Hilton property and is expected to open in 2015, with construction scheduled to start later in 2012. Plans for the hotel, a development and investment by Schiphol Real Estate, were drawn up to meet increasing market demand and match the high quality standards of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Facilities at the hotel, which will be managed by Hilton, are set to include a ballroom and 23 meeting rooms, speciality restaurant and bar, executive lounge, spa and fitness centre, light-filled atrium lobby and underground parking offering 138 parking spaces. A new sheltered walkway will also connect hotel guests directly to the international airport terminal.

The new Hilton hotel will be situated in a prominent location alongside the access roads to the international airport terminal, near the existing Hilton hotel, which will remain in operation until the opening of the new property and then be demolished. The new cube-shaped building, which will feature rounded edges and a diamond-shaped façade with diagonal lines, has been designed with a view becoming of an airport landmark.

A large atrium with a 35-metre high glass ceiling forms the heart of the hotel and meeting area. The light horizontal lines of the balustrades and white elements will reflect daylight deep into the building, providing an air of grandeur, while frames and lining will create a natural, elegant appearance, according to its architects.

The interior design, being overseen by Merkx+Girod of The Netherlands and Hirsch Bedner Associates of the United Kingdom, evokes a touch of contemporary, innovative and fresh Dutch design with strong, original forms and a natural, harmonious colour scheme.

Hilton Worldwide recently welcomed the sixth hotel to its Dutch portfolio, with the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station. It also expects to open two new hotels before 2014, with the introduction of the first Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Garden Inn properties to the Netherlands.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., along with Silver Hotel Group, has recently announced the debut of its new destination sensation brand, Aloft Hotels, in the Greater Toronto Area with the opening of Aloft Vaughan Mills.Located in Vaughan, the hotel is the second Aloft hotel in Canada, joining the Aloft Montreal Airport which debuted as the world\’s first in 2008. The momentum for the brand will continue in Canada as Aloft Calgary University will open in early 2013 as one of the first hotel conversion projects for the brand.

Featuring 131 loft-like guest rooms, Aloft Vaughan Mills will be just steps from the Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre, in the heart of unrivalled luxury shopping, dining and world-class entertainment, and boasts atmospheric public spaces where guests can mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mixSM lounge and w xyzSM bar. Spacious guest rooms feature Aloft\’s signature ceilings of nearly three metres high, oversized windows and an ultra-comfortable platform bed as well as large walk-in showers with complimentary Bliss Spa(R) products. Designed with the digital generation in mind, Aloft Vaughan Mills has fast and free wireless internet access throughout the whole hotel, including all guest rooms. Each room is also equipped with a unique plug-and-play connectivity solution which connects most electronic devices to the 42\’\’ flat-screen TV, turning the room into a high-tech office as well as an entertainment centre.

Guests will be able to de-stress and re-energise in the re:chargeSM fitness centre and SplashSM pool and grab a bite to eat at re:fuel by AloftSM, a one-stop, 24-hour grab-and-go food and beverage area, offering sweet, savoury and healthy food, snacks and drinks.

For work meetings, training courses and presentations, the hotel\’s three Tactic meeting rooms are equipped with the latest generation of audio-visual hardware, providing the perfect creative space for groups of up to 15 people.

SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
IMAGES: Stock photography

UK

On Friday, sterling gained 0.25% versus the euro in the mid-morning session rising to 1.2475 but closed the day down at 1.2422. Sterling has traded as low as 1.2360 this morning.After a week of steady falls against the US dollar, on Friday the pound began to recover and rose to a high of 1.5836 around lunchtime. GBPUSD remained fairly flat over the weekend and opened today at just over 1.58.

George Osborne warned yesterday that Britain faces “enormous risks” from chaos in the Eurozone, admitting that the government is preparing for the crisis to deepen. In a bleak assessment he voiced fears that the turmoil in the European Union may “only get worse”, hampering Britain’s recovery from the double dip recession.

Risk analysts warned yesterday that a Greek exit from the single currency would wipe another 10% off the value of British banks. At the same time, recovery among manufacturers could be strangled by the crisis. With funds pouring into London, sterling is being pushed up to levels that will make exports more expensive, hitting trade and threatening jobs. Sir Mervyn King, Governor of the Bank of England, last week refused to rule out intervention in foreign exchange markets to try to cap the value of the pound, which has risen by 4% since February.

Santander UK tried to reassure its British savers yesterday after a rise in customers withdrawing money in the wake of the downgrading of the Spanish-owned bank. In spite of reassurance from financial experts and officials, some depositors were taking no chances. The British bank, which has 25 million customers, stressed its financial strength and its independence from the crisis buffeting the Spanish banking industry.

The UK housing market has been weaker in the years following the global credit crunch. The government’s first-time buyer stamp duty holiday provided some brief respite in recent months, but it looks like growing concerns over an array of problems will likely weigh on sellers’ pricing power and overall activity levels going forward.

Data released this morning from Markit showed that UK consumers’ spending power was squeezed yet again in April and May as the rising cost of everyday goods, higher mortgage rates and still muted earnings growth weighed on Britons’ ability to spend.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro fell for a third week against the US dollar, reaching a four-month low of 1.2645 on Friday morning after increased concerns the Eurozone debt crisis may spread to other nations in the monetary union such as Spain.

EURUSD fared better in the afternoon reversing the trend moving to session high of 1.2738. The gains continued over the weekend peaking at 1.2797 as the European session opened this morning, above the 1.27 support level established last week and technical experts are eyeing 1.2890 as a key resistance level to breach.

Speaking after the G8 summit over the weekend, US President Barack Obama has said there is an “emerging consensus” that European countries must now focus on jobs and growth, he said the US was confident that Europe can meet its challenges.

Asian currencies had the biggest weekly drop since November as concern Europe’s debt crisis will worsen spurred demand for dollars amid signs the US and Chinese economies are losing momentum.

Canada’s weakened for a third straight week as concern Europe’s debt crisis will worsen overshadowed government data showing inflation and factory sales rose more than forecast. USDCAD has moved from 0.9815 at the end of April to 1.0215 today.

Bank Governor Mark Carney said last month interest-rate increases may be necessary as growth and inflation outpace his earlier projections, and as slack disappears from the economy. Policy makers have kept the benchmark rate at 1% since September 2010.

The Russian ruble depreciated against the dollar for an 11th day, extending its losing streak to the longest in more than three years as oil declined and after a report showed weaker-than-expected Russian industrial growth.

Leicester Square is famous as the home of film and theatre and today sees a new addition to the Square, with the opening of a Premier Inn at number 1 Leicester Place. Premier Inn’s brand new 83 bedroom hotel was officially opened on the 16th May by Whitbread Chairman Anthony Habgood, Whitbread Managing Director Patrick Dempsey, and Minister of Tourism and Heritage, John Penrose MP. The new hotel, which sees a £12 million investment into the London economy, is one of 20 hotels that will have opened by the end of 2013 across the city as part of a major expansion drive for the hotel chain.

Premier Inn Leicester Square has not only provided significant investment into the local economy but has also created 32 job opportunities for London residents ranging from reception to managerial roles, 50% of those employed have come from long term unemployed 18-24 year olds.

Patrick Dempsey, Managing Director of Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, comments: “We are delighted to be opening a new Premier Inn in the heart of London, a short walk from many of the capitals most well known tourist attractions. Our exciting growth in London means that we can offer even more people a great night’s sleep in the best locations when visiting the capital and we look forward to opening more hotels in London over the coming year.”

John Penrose, Minister for Tourism and Heritage, comments: “Tourism is vital to the UK’s economy and growth and it will play a big role in our future success. It is great to have been here today to officially open the new hotel in this brilliant location and to hear Premier Inn’s plans for further expansion. The eyes of the world will be on London this summer and I can only commend Premier Inn’s contribution to making England the place to stay for both international and domestic travellers.”

The new hotel is also a leader in innovation with ‘floating’ bedrooms equipped with double soundproofing to ensure guests get a good night’s sleep despite being within walking distance of many popular theatres, shops and London tourist attractions.

Spa to open at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano

Loyal guests and local devotees of Milan’s historic Four Seasons Hotel Milano will soon have to wait no longer, as the hotel opens its much-anticipated spa this June.Incorporating a spa into a 15th century former convent clearly cannot be rushed or taken lightly. Meticulous planning has therefore ensured that the new additions bring the best in spa thinking while complimenting the collection of centuries-old buildings that together make up this very special hotel. This highly sensitive project has been entrusted to renowned, Milan-based, architect and designer Patricia Urquiola.

The spa preserves the original 19th century vaulted ceilings while incorporating seven treatment rooms, a swimming pool and a Turkish bath with sauna and jacuzzi. There will be a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness studio and a signature hair spa by Rossano Ferretti – one of Italy’s most celebrated hairdressers famous for his “Methodo” cut.

The spa will be home to a range of treatments by luxury product houses La Prairie and Sodashi. La Prairie has combined innovations in biotechnology with the art of cosmetics and anti-ageing into a range of massage and relaxation techniques, that were specifically created for the spa at Four Seasons Hotel Milano. Sodashi, with its combination of natural elements and essential oils, is the perfect choice for those favouring a holistic and organic approach to wellbeing.

“Here we have tried to achieve, through a harmonious atmosphere of space, materials and colours, a realisation of beauty that every guest will associate with both an emotional and absolute organic idea of comfort.” says Patricia Urquiola.

The new Spa will have a soft opening in June 2012.

100 JOBS = 65 Maintenance Workers, 20 Hotel Team Members & 15 Head Office Staff

Budget hotel chain, Travelodge is delighted to announce the creation of 100 jobs across the UK.

Sixty five of the new positions have been created to strengthen the Company’s ‘MIB’ function (maintenance), which is an industry first initiative that was successfully launched a year ago.The Travelodge ‘Men in Black’ (MIB) team travel across the UK providing an in-house highly skilled maintenance support function to all the Company’s hotels. Their day to day responsibilities includes: plumbing, fixing hotel appliances, decorating and general maintenance within the hotel.

Paul Harvey, Travelodge Managing Director said: “I believe we are the only UK hotel company that invests in an in-house maintenance function.

With having over 500 Travelodge’s and growing at good pace, employing direct trade professionals makes good business sense. It ensures we have a dedicated resource on hand; whose main objective is to ensure all of our hotels are in good working order at all times.”

“Our MIB function has proven to be a valuable asset to the Company and I am delighted we have created a further 65 nationwide new positions within the department. This investment will certainly strengthen our maintenance resource, which will result in a better service for our hotel staff and customers.”

In addition to the 65 MIB positions, Travelodge is looking to recruit for 20 hotel team members and 15 head office staff.

The hotel team member roles are for hotels in the following locations:
London, Chester, Ipswich, Tamworth and Burton upon Trent. Positions include: Receptionist, Guest Room Cleaner and Bar Café staff.

The budget hotel chain also has 15 roles within its head office in Thame, Oxfordshire, which includes ten management positions. The roles include:

Pricing & Strategy Manager
Yield Manager (2)
Revenue Manager (5)
Inventory Manager
Payroll Manager
Pricing & Strategy Analyst
Employee Relations Advisor (2)
Senior Consumer Press Officer
Credit Controller,

Interested candidates for the MIB position need to send their CV to:

re****************@tr********.uk












Interested candidates for the hotel and head office positions need to send their CVs to:

ca*****@tr********.uk

Autograph Collection has announced that Turnberry Isle Miami, a landmark luxury resort in South Florida, has joined the brand’s exclusively curated portfolio of independently owned and operated hotels. Located in Aventura, Turnberry Isle Miami is the third South Florida hotel to join the collection and the 32nd property added to the brand’s expanding roster. Built in 1971, the award-winning Mediterranean-style luxury retreat spans over 300 acres of lush landscaped gardens and golf courses, with 408 deluxe guest rooms and suites.Close to various nearby local attractions and world-class shopping including Aventura Mall across the street, Turnberry Isle Miami has a wide array of award-winning activities and amenities on property for all guests to enjoy, including two 18-hole Raymond Floyd redesigned championship golf courses, a three-story spa & fitness centre, a state-of-the-art tennis centre with a new exclusive partnership with Cañas Tennis, a beach club, multiple pools including a lagoon-style pool with a waterslide and lazy river, a 40,000 square-foot conference centre, marina access, a kids club, and a distinguished membership club. The resort is also home to a variety of notable dining options, including Bourbon Steak, envisioned by world-renowned Chef Michael Mina, and Cascata Grille, which seasons every dish with fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit from an onsite chef’s garden.

Turnberry Isle Miami has garnered various accolades over the years, including the AAA Four Diamond Award. It has also achieved prominent status on various lists, most recently the2012 Travel + Leisure 500 World’s Best Hotels.

Owned by Turnberry Hotel Group, a division of the locally-based and family-operated Turnberry Associates, the resort will maintain its unique individuality while gaining access to Marriott International’s global sales and marketing channels, including the company’s renowned Marriott Rewards program.

UK

The UK started the day on a positive note after Jobless claims fell by 13,700 from March, this was the largest drop since July 2010, which saw sterling move up to around 1.5985 against the US dollar and hold at 3 ½ year highs of 1.2550 against the euro.Bank of England governor Mervyn King said Wednesday that the UK is drawing up contingency plans for the break-up of the Eurozone, warning that the Eurozone’s escalating debt crisis is the single biggest threat to the UK’s economy recovery. “Contingency plans are being discussed and have been for some time”.

Bank of England cut its 2012 growth forecasts to 0.8% from 1.2% and said the UK economy was likely to remain “subdued” as the UK faced threats over the euro zone fallout, leaving the door open for further Quantitative Easing to support the economy.

The pound fell to a month low 1.5888 against the dollar, and fell below 1.25 against the euro after the BoE release.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro rose to 1.2758 against the US dollar yesterday amid speculation its recent decline may have been overdone and after the news that Greek leaders prepare now to hold new elections. The 17-nation currency earlier reached a four-month low 1.2681 against the greenback amid mounting concern Greece will exit the currency bloc.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande said they would consider measures to spur economic growth in Greece as long as voters there committed to the austerity demanded to stay in the euro.

US Industrial Production figures for April showed a 1.1% increase which was 0.5% better than the consensus view and 1.5% better than March, however this did little to affect the market.

Overnight FOMC minutes showed that several members acknowledged that further QE stimulus could be necessary if the recovery loses momentum, this was expected by investors
Investors are reducing gold holdings for a third month, the longest stretch since 2004, and favouring the dollar as a haven from Europe’s debt crisis, despite Goldman Sachs Group Inc. predicting record prices for the metal.

The New Zealand dollar dropped for a fourth day after Auckland-based Fonterra Cooperative Group Ltd., the world’s largest dairy exporter, said whole-milk powder prices continued their slide, falling to the lowest level in more than 2 ½ years.

Japan’s GDP for Q1 showed a 1.0% growth which was 0.1% up on consensus, the marginal movement did little to the market.

Australia Consumer Inflation expectation for May came in at 3.1% slightly better than the consensus expectation. The AUD dollar gained around half a cent against the pound moving from around 1.6040, back below 1.59.

A landmark building in Liverpool is set to undergo a significant refit as a city centre hotel in a £12m scheme.Planning permission has been granted to Ashall Property Ltd for the conversion of the Royal Insurance Building on North John Street.

The scheme, designed by Liverpool architects Falconer Chester Hall, will see the Grade 2* Listed property become a 116-bed hotel with a ground floor restaurant and bar.

Impressive original features such as the openness of the ground floor General Office will be retained through a sympathetic conversion and use of furniture that has minimal impact and maintains visibility of the whole space including the ornamental ceiling.

The property has been disused for some time and on the national `Buildings at Risk’ register. The conversion will re-animate and preserve an architecturally significant building which, for many years, was a cornerstone of the city’s business life.

An assessment of the plans by historic buildings advisor Peter De Figueiredo concluded: “The proposals for repair and conservation will bring major public benefits and enhance the present state of the building.”

Roger Williams of Preston Brook-based investment and development company Ashall Property Ltd commented: “To bring back to life this iconic Liverpool building will require careful and well co-ordinated construction works. FCH have designed a scheme fitting of the building’s history and we are delighted to be the developer of this superb building which will provide a top quality niche hotel and meeting destination for the city.”

Work on the conversion is expected to start in December 2012 with completion around December 2013.

The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers states that “The Furniture Makers Company has introduced the Design Guild Mark to reward excellence in the design of furniture in volume production.By the award of this Guild Mark for designs which meet the Company’s criteria, the designers will receive due recognition and the industry will be made more aware of the importance of investment in design. It will mark and reward the work of the finest designers working in Britain and the best of British designers working abroad. Numbered Design Guild Marks will be awarded to the designers of pieces or ranges of furniture in volume production for retail or contract sale which are judged to achieve excellence in respect of the criteria.”

Two years in the making and designed by Broome Jenkins, starting with cardboard modelling and progressing to rapid prototyping, the new Meet-U® meeting table system from Burgess Furniture includes simple features to allow for agile working and modern technology.

Carefully designed with the user in mind, a variety of top shapes – including rectangles, squares, triangles and quadrants – link together to form the perfect layout for any meeting room environment. The full range of tables can be further complemented by bridging units, minimising the number of table legs needed and so allowing more people to sit in total comfort around the table layout.

Presented by Joe Gould from Broome Jenkins, who worked with us on the project, and who were best placed to highlight the selling features of the system to the prestigious judging panel, the Meet-U went on to win an award.

UK

GBPEUR had an erratic session yesterday, falling temporarily to a low of 1.2476 due to better-than-expected German growth data. The drop was short-lived and GBPEUR recovered to hit a session high of 1.2563, a level not seen since Nov 2008. Trading opened this morning at 1.2557
The recent highs seen in GBPUSD over the last month continued to fall away as USD gained momentum from the increased risk in Europe but also from strong data from the US. The session high was 1.6113 but the pair fell steadily to the 3-week low of 1.6011. Trading opened today at 1.5932.GBPNZD has reached 2.0880 this morning, the highest the pair has traded for 6 months. Mirroring sterling’s recent rise against the Australian dollar, GBPNZD has now moved more than 10% from 1.8625 to 2.0880 in just 3 months.

UK employment data released this morning showed the Claimant Count dropped by 13.7k, the Claimant Count Rate fell to 4.9% and ILO Unemployment Rate fell to 8.2%.

The much anticipated Bank of England Inflation this morning painted a gloomy picture of the economy giving a weak growth outlook. The markets responded immediately and the pound fell across the board, GBPUSD has fallen below 1.59 and GBPEUR lost nearly half a cent falling to 1.2509.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The US dollar out performed a basket of currencies yesterday as investors moved to safe haven currencies after efforts to form a government in Greece failed. EURUSD shed 80 pips within 15 minutes demonstrating the volatility brought about by the crisis-point situation in the Eurozone. The fall continued overnight with EURUSD dropping to 1.2681 as the European markets opened, the lowest seen since Jan 17th.

Reports emerging this morning suggest that Greeks have withdrawn as much as €700m from local banks. The fall in deposits means Greek banks will become even more reliant on the ECB to help with their operational funding.

The French economy failed to grow in the first three months of 2012 adding pressure on President Francois Hollande to deliver on his promise to push growth-friendly policies. The new President wants to form a new pact with Europe that would reduce national debts and introduce measures to stimulate growth.

Greek GDP posted -6.2 change for Q1 2012 and expected to achieve -5% over the year.
German ZEW Survey of the Current Situation for May showed a significant improvement to 44.1 from 40.7, up also on the 38.0 consensus.

French President Hollande named French legislator Jean-Marc Ayrault as prime minister shortly after taking office. Meanwhile outgoing French Finance Minister Francois Baroin has revealed that “if Greece crashes out of the Eurozone it would cost France around €50bn net in lost loans”.

US Consumer Price Index (CPI) YoY for April achieved the 2.3% consensus but fell from the 2.7% previous reading. The MoM for April was flat, down from a 0.3%. CPI excluding Food and Energy YoY and MoM for April showed no change.
A surprise result for US Net Long-Term TIC Flows in March saw $36.2Bn against the previous $10.1Bn.

Italy’s ABI, Tuesday said that the downgrade by Moody’s of 26 Italian banks is irresponsible The reasons given are contradictory, as they cite Mario Monti’s austerity measures as one of the motives of the downgrade while those were the same steps that were previously encouraged.

Foreign direct investment into China fell for the sixth straight month in April, the latest sign of trouble for the world’s second-largest economy.

UBS has cut its short-term forecasts for both the Australian and New Zealand dollars against the greenback, citing its weaker view for Chinese growth and poor market sentiment caused by Greece.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently expanded its global portfolio to 80 countries with the opening of Hilton Doha, its first hotel in Qatar. The new visually stunning 309-room Hilton Doha is ideally located on the headland of the capital city’s prestigious Corniche and boasts a number of leading features including a 750-capacity ballroom, a dedicated conference wing and the first eforea: spa at Hilton in the Middle East.

The hotel also features seven state-of-the-art meeting rooms, six restaurants and bars, an outdoor swimming pool, a kids club, a private beach and a view of the Arabian Gulf from every bedroom. Hilton Doha will also open Qatar’s very first Trader Vic’s bar and restaurant.

Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts said: “With so many new striking features, Hilton Doha is set to become an exceptional example of the high standards, quality and unrivalled experience guests expect from Hilton. Our brand is recognised for entering new markets and successfully creating landmark products that appeal to both leisure and business travellers. Hilton Doha continues this legacy and this is an exciting milestone for us.”

The hotel is a convenient 15-minute drive from the airport and near to the heart of Doha’s upscale commercial, retail and diplomatic district, including the famous Souq Waqif and Museum of Islamic Art.

Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa said: “We have worked hard to create a world class hotel to best reflect Qatar’s growing ambitions to be a major global player. It’s no secret that Doha is set to become an important sporting and cultural Middle East hub and we’re looking forward to bringing the Hilton brand’s trademark hospitality and service to such an exciting and motivated city community.”

UK

GBPUSD opened the week’s trading at 1.6071, with the Greek situation creating a flight to quality, sterling performed well against a strong USD reaching a high of 1.6123 before eventually closing at 1.6107. The GBPUSD could track higher tomorrow if the Bank of England highlight an improved outlook for the U.K in the inflation report.GBPEUR again hit new three and a half year highs topping out at 1.2556. The resistance of 1.25 that proved quite solid over the past week should now act as support as this pair moves into a new trading range. Without news sparking a retrace market chatter suggests that 1.2658 is the next target.

Sterling has appreciated 4% this year, the most among 10 developed-market peers. Strategists have boosted their year-end forecasts for the pound against the euro by 3.6% in 2012.
UK trade data this morning showed a slight narrowing in the trade deficit but market reaction was muted ahead of tomorrow’s BoE Inflation Report.

Shares in Hampshire based commercial currency printing firm De La Rue soared as investors expect a surge in printing if the Greeks revert to the Drachma.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

EURUSD opened the week’s trading at 1.2885, briefly moving to its day high of 1.2904 before taking a significant drop to the low of the day at 1.2824, a low not seen since late January this year.

This morning German Q1 GDP surprised to the upside printing at 0.5% versus 0.1% expected, this helped to lift EUR/USD above the 1.2850 level in early morning European trade. Focus remains on Athens as politicians there continue to negotiate to form a working coalition government.

Germany’s higher-than-expected GDP helped the combined Eurozone GDP figure to remain flat at 0.0% when the markets had anticipated a contraction of 0.2%.

Through this past session, we were reminded of the constant pressure that rests on the euro’s shoulders through headlines and political comments after the European Finance Ministers meeting on Monday evening reported that the topic of a Greek exit was not discussed along with the warning that no alterations to the program would be entertained.

The contrasting political commentary that we have seen this week was rewarded with a vote of no confidence from the market after we saw both Spanish and Italian bond auctions drawing higher yields.

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said yesterday, “Europe’s fiscal pact for tougher budget rules can’t be changed and French President Elect Francois Hollande should know it’s a done deal.” Today Hollande is due to meet Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has lobbied hard to install tougher budget rules in Europe in a bid to get the area’s sovereign debt crisis under control.

Ireland is “very hopeful” that Germany and France will help frame pro-growth measures for Europe’s troubled economy, Ireland’s Deputy Finance Minister Brian Hayes said yesterday. An agreement on a “pro-growth” agenda in Europe will help Ireland’s coalition government convince Irish voters to support the EU treaty in the May 31 public vote.

Commodity currencies such as the CAD, NOK and NZD continued to trade under pressure as concerns Greece may be the first member state to exit the euro drove investors to risk aversion. While commodity currencies suffer the fate of commodity prices they are also linked to market liquidity. The more illiquid markets suffer in times of risk aversion.

According to the newly-released minutes of the last RBA meeting, the reasoning behind the 50bp surprise rate cut move focused on the need to get borrowing costs lower for the “community” as major local banks had been edging rates higher in recent months. GBPAUD fell from 1.6130 to 1.6080 after the minutes were released, this pair has moved from a low of 1.4547 this weeks high of 1.6152 in less than 3 months.

The use of colour in interiors has, of course, never really gone away. There has been an emphasis on ‘minimalism’ that has not really been minimalist, simply bleak. Minimalism was all about balancing empty against intense, purity of shape and form and a specific kind of aesthetic. In hotels it was reduced to cheap – less is less as it were.

Now an era of colour and pattern is upon us, with the digitisation of the production of wallpapers and fabrics allowing full creative freedom for designers. There is a return of the idea that hotel interiors should create drama, and a sense of place (as well as a return to sixties designs unfortunately).Lighting is changing rapidly, partly because of concerns about energy consumption, and the introduction of LED lighting is becoming a game changer. This gives a freedom to the designer and a purity of light almost unknown before. As the cost and rarity both disappear from the equation, the LED will become the dominant format and hotel energy bills will plummet. The ability to paint with light combined with digitally dyed carpets and digitally printed wallpapers and fabrics gives an unprecedented freedom to designers.

Like all freedom however, it comes with a set of rules. Colour and light can change the perception of space, and in an attempt to nail down ‘advancing’ or ‘recessive’ colour, and to see how lighting can change depth perception I knocked up a little ‘light modulator’.

The ‘modulator’ had movable partitions, into which I could project light, whether white or coloured, to see the effects it had on the perception of space. By photographing onto slides (which were scanned for this article) I was able to project the imagery and play with it, as I shall explain.

Centrally located on London’s vibrant South Bank, the luxury 5 star London Marriott Hotel, County Hall has breathtaking views of many of London’s famous sights, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Palace of Westminster. The view is the envy of many London hotels and now that Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar has opened (April 2012), the hotel can boast a bar and restaurant to rival the very best in the capital. Here you can enjoy the very best English steak in a traditional English building, surrounded by unique English furnishings and art.

Working closely with head designer Angie Newby-Stubbs of Blacksheep, interior contractor and furniture supplier Andy Thornton successfully delivered the decorative interior package. The company worked to concept drawings and a detailed brief from the designers, arranging inspections at the Andy Thornton workshops and providing samples for approval at every stage of the manufacturing process.

Centrepiece in the main bar area is an elegant cocktail bar, supplied by Andy Thornton, which features an illuminated bar counter in specially sourced ‘book-matched’ granite with a zinc bar top. The back fitting comprises of an ornate solid brass drinks gantry with open glazed shelving and four antique mirrors to effectively display the impressive selection of spirits. Underneath are specially manufactured stainless steel clad base units and stainless steel worktop.

Directly in front of the bar is a circular seating area, defined by four bespoke high wing-back curved deep button-backed sofas set around a circular patterned carpet. These have been upholstered in mustard leather to complement the carpet. Andy Thornton also supplied lounge chairs, tubs and coffee tables all manufactured specially to Blacksheep specifications.
To the sides of the foyer entrance, Andy Thornton installed brass-framed cloak cupboards with silvered mirrored doors and a brass clad wine display feature. There is also a free standing greeter station by the riverside entrance and a curved reception counter close to the restaurant.

In the restaurant the focal point is the Cheese & Chutney servery, which incorporates a mirrored counter and bespoke granite worktop and a display gantry in brass with decorative spinnings. Around the restaurant Andy Thornton also supplied three free-standing waiter stations in veneered oak with granite tops and mirrored splash backs.

Sumptuous leather Chesterfields fill the restaurant and bar, including one at nine metres in length, specially made with a slight radius to fit against the curved back wall. These are matched with a mix of bespoke side chairs, again manufactured to Blacksheep designs and upholstered in premium colour-dyed leathers with contrasting piping to give a contemporary feel. Cast iron table bases are matched with a mix of marble, oak and zinc clad tops. One feature table is 2.2 metres in diameter, accommodating ten private diners.

Angie Newby-Stubbs of Blacksheep commented: “From the inception of this project Andy Thornton have delivered on every level, from initial design discussions on the bespoke furniture to site delivery. All members of the team are professional and a delight to work with. Working in such close partnership has meant that this project was delivered to the highest standards expected not only of Blacksheep but also the client, Marriott International.”

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced that a newly renovated 80-room Holiday Inn Express in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is expected to open this month. The property will showcase the brand’s new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion Holiday Inn brand re-launch program.

“More than $1.5 million will be invested to convert this property (from a Comfort Inn to a Holiday Inn Express) and we are looking forward to the end result,” said Umesh Vaidya, general manager. “Holiday Inn Express is modern, fresh, clean and uncomplicated and a perfect fit for Harrisburg, PA.

Guests at the Holiday Inn Express Harrisburg-Hershey will experience a comfortable and smart environment with innovative preferred guest upgrades to ensure a productive stay while travelling for business or leisure. The hotel’s newly enhanced complimentary Express Start® breakfast bar will feature a full range of breakfast items including a rotation of egg and meat selections, biscuits, yogurt, fruit and the brand’s proprietary cinnamon roll and Smart Roast® coffee. The SimplySmart™ shower incorporates a proprietary Stay Smart™ Kohler showerhead, signature shower curtain with curved rod, upgraded 100 percent cotton terry towels and a custom line of cinnamon-scented bath products. Guests will enjoy the SimplySmart™ bedding collection where they will find new crisp fresh bedding which features an attractive decorative throw, a medium-weight duvet blanket and soft 200 thread-count sheets.

The newly renovated property offers a variety of amenities such as indoor heated pool w/ whirlpool, business centre. Standard Holiday Inn Express guest rooms feature comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair and an in-room coffee machine featuring complimentary Smart Roast 100% Arabica coffee. Business travellers will find large desks with ergonomic chairs, free high-speed internet access and free local phone and toll free (U.S. and Canada only), phones with private voicemail and complimentary USA TODAY® newspapers.

The Holiday Inn Express-Harrisburg-Hershey is owned and managed by 44 Linglestown Associates LLC., under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

UK

On Friday, UK PPI Input Month on month came out worst then expected at -1.5% against a forecast of -0.9% with output PPI rising 0.7% against 0.4%
GBPUSD started Friday’s session trading at 1.6123 before seeing a sharp drop mid-afternoon to the low of the day at 1.6066. After a brief spell back over 1.61 in afternoon trading the pair fell back again and is currently trading around 1.6060. A close below support at 1.6050 will confirm the drop towards 1.58 but there will be strong support on the way at the 1.60 level.In early morning trade on Friday we saw GBPEUR break the high again to hit the highest level since Nov 2008 at 1.25039 but failed to break through support, closing the day at 1.2469, today markets have opened around 1.2470 and we can expect another attempt at breaking this 1.25 barrier significantly.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Today is the last day that Greece can form a coalition government before being forced to hold another election in June. As mentioned last week, anti-bailout party Syriza are now leading polls and senior ECB officials are now openly discussing a Greek exit from the euro.

Greece also announced a €9.1bn deficit In Q1 2012 versus €7.37bn last year.

Euro finance ministers meet today and will discuss the international bailout for Greece as well as the situation in Spain, where the government last week made a fourth attempt to clean up the country’s banks. Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy announced plans to require the country’s banks to set aside an extra €35bn against bad loans made to its collapsing construction sector, on top of the €54bn they have already provisioned this year.

Political unrest has spread to Germany, with Angela Merkel’s party losing the most populous state and showing they are also being hit by the austerity backlash.

The US Producer Price Index was expected to show a flat 0.0% change but data showed a -0.2% decline in the price of finished goods and services. Expectations for next month data is even worse due to the recent slide in oil prices. Preliminary University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment came out at the highest level since 2008 at 77.8 versus an expected 76.2.

EURUSD traded at a high of 1.2956 on Friday but has traded downwards since and is currently trading at a low of 1.2875 morning. With the pair having broken well clear of the resistance at 1.3000 the next key target is the January low of 1.2620, a close below strong support around 1.28 will accelerate the decline.

On Friday, Canadian employment change came out positively showing a 82.3k gain which was way up from an expected forecast of 11.3k.

China eased monetary policy on Saturday when it the reduced banks’ reserve requirements by 50 basis points. This is the third time in six months where the central bank reduces the reserve requirements. The cut is a signal that the government is expecting growth to slow and wants to support and stimulate their economy now, we can expect further measures in the future.

Eurozone Industrial Production figures just released showed a bigger than expected fall in March. The annualized figure of -2.2% was lower than the -1.2% markets were expecting to see.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the debut of The St. Regis Doha as the St. Regis brand continues its dynamic global growth and nearly triples its portfolio in just five years. Owned by Resorts Development Company and developed by Alfardan Group, The St. Regis Doha is Qatar’s first St. Regis hotel and ideally located within Doha’s newest waterfront destination at Al Gassar Resort. The hotel features 336 luxuriously-appointed guest rooms, including 70 elegant suites and two Presidential suites, all offering breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf. As the finest address in Doha, the hotel is centrally located between the city’s cultural heritage sites and its emerging commercial hub. The hotel’s distinctive architecture showcases the contemporary design fused with traditional Arabic touches, an impressive addition to the city’s skyline.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences
The St. Regis Doha offers 10 distinctive culinary and lounge experiences featuring some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Gordon Ramsay, where Michelin-starred chef Gilles Bosquet will create sumptuous selections developed and influenced by the renowned Chef Ramsay in an elegant setting inspired by an English manor house and the famed Hakkasan which will bring authentic yet contemporary Cantonese cuisine to Doha when it opens later this year.

Luxury Leisure and the first Remede Spa in the Middle East
The St. Regis Doha offers 16,000 square metres of luxury leisure facilities, including the first Remède Spa in the Middle East, which provides the ultimate indulgence within tranquil surroundings. The spa features 22 treatment rooms, making it one of the largest and finest spas in Doha. The hotel also offers an ultra-modern fitness centre, an Olympic-size swimming pool and a private beach with 10 beachfront cabanas. The St. Regis Doha also features 4,000 square metres of state-of-the-art meeting, event and conference space, including one of the largest ballrooms in Doha.

SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts

With more than 350 hotels all across the world, the Spanish Meliá Hotels International chain has now signed a lease agreement on a fifth hotel in Dusseldorf, which will open its doors in the middle of next year. The new four-star superior hotel, which will be operated by the Innside by Meliá design brand, will be located inside the eye-catching Colorium building in the popular Medienhafen area of the city – also the capital of the Federal State of North Rhine Westphalia.The landmark building at Speditionstrasse with its 17 levels and 62 metres in height was designed by the British star architect William Allen Alsop for a private investor, and is one of the symbols of the new en vogue quarter, not only because of its extraordinary shape. A façade, comprising more than 2,000 colourful glass panels, was hung in front of it displaying a mixture of full-colour spaces and differentiated four-colour elements. The most spectacular feature is the signal-red technology level on the top floor protruding above the port basin and which is illuminated at night. A trendy Innside Skybar & Lounge has been planned which will not only spoil hotel guests with culinary treats, but also provide fantastic views of the port and the city centre that is only a few minutes away on foot.

A total of 134 extremely stylish rooms and suites as well as two state-of-the-art conference rooms spread across floors 5 to 14 and the ground floor. The Colorium’s floors that are not occupied by the hotel contain office rooms as well as the innovation showrooms of a major mobile phone provider or a fashion label and the Dusseldorf branch of a media academy.

Kai Lamlé, head of Meliá Hotels International in Germany, headquartered in Ratingen, is happy about the spectacular new hotel in the old city port, which has turned into a new hub for art, communication and creativity. Many of the resident companies appreciate the area’s image as an architectural attraction and are happy to benefit from it: “Our lifestyle Innside brand and the Colorium in the Medienhafen area fit perfectly together when it comes to their creative standards, offering business and city travellers both a fancy environment and an exciting interior.” Planning and realisation of the hotel conversion will be carried out under the successful auspices of Kai 18 Projekte GmbH in Düsseldorf, which was also responsible for the project development, planning and realisation of the Innside hotel in Duesseldorf-Derendorf that opened in 2008.

eforea: spa at Hilton continues its rapid global expansion with the opening of its first location in the Middle East. Located at Hilton Doha in Qatar, the 600-square-meter eforea: spa at Hilton offers an exclusive treatment menu, innovative design features and carefully selected product partners that appeal to today’s savvy global travellers.The new, visually stunning 309-room Hilton Doha, the first hotel in Qatar for Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Worldwide, is ideally located on the headland of the capital city’s prestigious Corniche. The hotel boasts a number of leading features, including: a 750-seat capacity ballroom, a dedicated conference wing, views of the Arabian Gulf from every bedroom, and six restaurants and bars, including the country’s first Trader Vic’s bar and restaurant.

The eforea: spa at Hilton location has been created with a blend of Arabesque design details and a contemporary, light finish to invite guests to “emerge brighter,” the brand promise of eforea. The spa features five multi-purpose treatment rooms and one Thai massage and meditation room as well as one couples’ suite with a steam rasul and one single suite with a steam rasul, providing a complete exfoliation experience. In addition, the spa boasts an extensive thermal lounge that includes a traditional sauna, two aroma steam experiences, a hydro pool, ice chute and two experience showers with aroma and colour lighting. The thermal lounge experience also opens to the spa garden.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced it will open its first dual-branded ski resort complex in Changbaishan, China later this year. The Westin Changbaishan and Sheraton Changbaishan Resort will open in August 2012, adjacent to the slopes of Changbai Mountains, one of Chinas leading ski areas. The highly anticipated resort complex will lengthen Starwoods lead as the largest international luxury and upper upscale hotel operator in China.The Westin and Sheraton resort complex is close to Yingfu Expressway and just six miles to Changbaishan Airport (NBS). Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the Changbai mountain range extends through several countries and is home to 200 animal and bird species. Guests will enjoy downhill on trails surrounded by unspoiled pine forests, as well as ice skating and ice fishing.

The Westin Changbaishan Resort

Offering ski-in/ski-out access, The Westin Changbaishan Resort will inspire well-being with breathtaking mountain views, world-class dining, a Westin Kids Club, signature Heavenly® Spa and an indoor swimming pool. All 257 guestrooms will be equipped with the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed featuring lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly® Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brands Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

Sheraton Changbaishan Resort

Sheraton Changbaishan Resort will offer 296 guest rooms and suites with mountain or ski views, as well as a Sheraton Club lounge and Sheraton Club rooms with upgraded amenities. The heart of the lobby will feature the Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft® a social hub where connections, whether face-to-face or webcam-to-webcam, take place. All guest rooms will be equipped with an oversized work desk, custom-designed ergonomic chair, high-speed Internet, LCD flat panel television, MP3 docking station and the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed to meet AAAs Five Diamond Award® criteria.

Additional amenities will include a full-service restaurant and lounge, spa, indoor heated swimming pool, and fully equipped fitness facility featuring the brands revolutionary new health and fitness program, Sheraton Fitness programmed by Core Performance”, designed exclusively for Sheraton guests through its partner Core Performance.

Ideal for meetings of all sizes, as well as social functions and weddings, the resort complex will offer more than 37,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space including a 13,362 square-foot ballroom and a spacious pre-function space.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

There’s just five working days to go to discover, share and learn about the current boutique hotel marketplace with the professionals behind some of today’s most successful brands. We look forward to welcoming confirmed delegates from USA, Dubai, Qatar, Hong Kong, Ghana, Lebanon, Switzerland, France and other European countries.173 Delegates already confirmed including representatives from Patron Capital, Sanguine Hospitality, Jebel Ali International Hotels, HVS, Diamond Resorts International, Cooper Feldman, American Express, Tzell, Briscoe and Shaw, ESPA, Watergate Bay, Mr and Mrs Smith, Sands Hotel, Hotel Verta, Swire Hotels, Hotel TerraVina, Rhombus Group, Swisscom, Boutique Hotel News, Red Carnation Hotels, The Highland Group, Rooms Service, Lowy Hotels, Moore Stephens, Howard Kennedy, Luxmere, Hotel Indigo, SKYWare Hospitality, Berns Hotels, Morgans Hotels, AvailPro, STR Global, HVS, IDeaS Revenue Solutions, TravelZoo, WATG, Janus et Cie, Yahoo! Cardola, Yoo, Google, ABTA, Hotel Chocolat, Ultimate Library, Living Social, Marriott, TRI Hospitality, Dukes Hotel, Flemings Hotel and lots more.

Will you be part of this month’s Boutique Hotel Summit? Limited to a maximum of 200 delegates. Click here to read more.

The 2012 programme features Analysis, Case Studies and panel sessions featuring top Boutique and Lifestyle hoteliers and service providers covering everything from Finance, Distribution, Marketing, Mobile, PR, Press, Social Media, General Management, Market Research, Spa, Art and Design and More.

If you missed the 2011 inaugural conference, don’t make the same mistake twice – just 27 tickets available now.

To secure yours, please visit www.boutiquehotelsummit.com. See you there!

A 310-room oceanfront Hard Rock Hotel and Casino will be the latest addition to Aruba’s growing portfolio of luxury accommodation.Scheduled to open in 2014, the 75-million pound hotel will be located right outside Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital, and is set to dramatically change the beach landscape of the island.

The brand new property will be built on the ruins of the abandoned Bushiri Hotel, which has not been operating for nearly a decade and whose demolition will be completed by the end of the year. The Aruba Hard Rock Hotel and Casino will cover a total area of 28,619 square metres and will have a maximum height of seven floors.

It will feature eco-friendly, sustainable energy construction elements such as reflecting roofs against the heat, systems to collect rainwater, seawater swimming pools and the use of indigenous plants that can stand Aruba’s dry climate.

The coastline will be improved as a public beach with upgraded facilities for beachgoers, while the premises will also include a training facility for catering.

Hard Rock currently has twelve hotels worldwide, seven of which are under construction, in locations as varied as the Mayan Riviera, Doha and Atlantic City.

Already home to some of the world’s most prestigious hotel chains (including Hyatt, The Westin, Radisson and Marriott), Aruba will also welcome an exclusive Ritz-Carlton resort in October 2013.

Provenance Hotels of Portland and Woodbine Development Corporation of Dallas today announced their joint acquisition of The Governor Hotel in Portland from The Royal Bank of Scotland for an undisclosed purchase price. Provenance, an expert in the region’s boutique hotel market, will become operator of the hotel, effective immediately. Woodbine will serve as developer and asset manager for the partnership, which plans to update/renovate the hotel and transition it into the Provenance Hotels collection. Acquisition financing is being provided by Morgan Stanley Mortgage Capital Holdings, LLC. Hunt Realty Investments, Inc., Woodbine’s financial partner, also is participating in the capitalization of the project.The landmark, 100-room hotel between 10th and 11th avenue in downtown Portland features almost 23,000 square feet of function space, including a 10,000-square-foot grand ballroom, and the popular Jake’s Grill. A true Pacific Northwest architectural treasure, The Governor is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features elegant historic aesthetics, spacious guest rooms and dramatic penthouse suites with open-air rooftop terraces.

The purchase of The Governor is the first joint endeavor for Provenance and Woodbine, the seventh property under Provenance management and the 12th hotel in Woodbine’s development/asset management project portfolio. Both companies bring extensive experience in historic renovations to The Governor repositioning project.

“We are thrilled to partner with Woodbine to acquire this landmark property and delighted to continue to expand Provenance’s presence in our hometown,” said Bashar Wali, President of Provenance. “We see fantastic opportunities in both this asset and the overall Portland market and look forward to charting an exciting new path for The Governor.”

CBRE’s Chris Burdett and Matthew Behrens marketed the hotel for The Royal Bank of Scotland, and Woodbine was selected from multiple buyers in late 2011 to begin negotiations. The acquisition effort was led by Gordon Sondland, chairman and CEO of Provenance, and Dupree Scovell, who recently launched Woodbine’s West Coast investment/acquisition platform in Los Angeles.

“Provenance’s local market knowledge and expertise in boutique hotel renovations, combined with Woodbine’s nearly 40-year history of hospitality development and investment, have come together to create a dynamic team that can take this magnificent historic property to new levels,” Scovell said.

Sondland added: “As a Portland-grown company and long-time investor in the local community, we are delighted to collaborate with the highly skilled hospitality team at Woodbine, and together we will provide exemplary stewardship of The Governor.”

Provenance and Woodbine are assembling the repositioning/renovation team and will announce a project schedule at a later date.

UK

The BoE refrained from providing a further cash boost to the recession-struck UK economy as the decision was apparently weighed down by higher inflation. The 9 member MPC left the size of the QE program unchanged at £325bn, marking an end to the second round of stimulus.Manufacturing output grew a more-than-expected 0.9% from February, led by the sharp improvement in production of chemical and transport equipment. But, the increase was insufficient to lift industrial production.

The UK economy grew 0.1% in the three months to the end of April after falling into recession in the first quarter, but it is likely to be flat for the next six months, a key economic research institute said yesterday.

GBPEUR hit a session high of 1.2492 after the MPC left the size of QE unchanged, this 50 pip jump from 1.2442 happened in under 10 minutes. Today the pair has started the trading session around 1.2450, a break above 1.2493 is the next key target to close for further upside potential.

GBPUSD received a similar boost yesterday, climbing up before hitting a session high of 1.6182 having hit a session low of 1.6091 in the morning yesterday, markets have opened today around 1.6105. The range has shifted lower now and next week could see another test of the support at the psychological barrier of 1.60.

UK PPI Input m/m dropped to -1.5% its lowest level since 2009, PPI output was slightly better than forecast at 0.7%. The biggest news to emerge from this data was that construction output for Q1 has been revised lower, which squashes any hope of an improved revision on the negative UK GDP figure released in April.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

More worrying headline news for the euro from Greece, the first polls since Sundays elections showed a dramatic rise in support for anti-bailout party Syriza, indicating the far left party would win enough seats to win the election in June if the current sentiment persists. While the PASOK party still try to form a pro-bailout coalition to keep the country in the euro, the support has shifted significantly now. If Greece do elect Syriza then it is almost certain they will exit from the Euro. Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras yesterday declared the current financial agreement with the EU invalid.

The whole Eurozone lost a crucial lifeline yesterday as China’s biggest sovereign wealth fund announced it will no longer buy any more European government debt.

Analysts do not think that the measures announced by Spain’s government today to shore up its banking system will be enough. Announcement of a new banking reform in Spain will receive attention today.

The OECD leading index showed the German and British economies at a turning point and likely to gain momentum over the next six months. While the US and Japan are showing stronger positive signals.

Industrial production in France contracted 0.9% over the month of March. However, French manufacturing production surprisingly gained 1.4% in March, exceeding forecasts of a 0.2% drop. This mixed set up of data has created uncertainty and doesn’t bode well for sentiment.
Norges Bank surprised no one yesterday, and left its key policy rate remain unchanged at 1.5%. The Norwegian Krone weakened dramatically to 9.48, its weakest level since 2010, other commodity led currencies suffered too as drops in oil prices and global growth concerns weigh on sentiment.

Despite the euro having a slightly better session against the US Dollar, the EURUSD struggled to break back over the 1.30 level having reached a high of 1.2981 and a low of 1.2926 yesterday. Today the markets have opened around the lower end of the range, currently residing around 1.2916. With strong resistance building around 1.30, the pair is expected to take a fresh run towards 1.2620, the low last seen in January.

With the value of imports increasing at a faster rate than the value of exports in the month of March, the US trade deficit widened by more than anticipated. Also released yesterday, the number of people applying for unemployment benefits dropped again last week after dropping sharply the previous week, there is now growing evidence that hiring in the US could pick up this month.
US stocks rose as investors sought bargains, believing stocks were oversold after the S & P dropped in 5 of the previous 6 sessions. This fall was caused by continual concerns over the political situation in Greece.

China risks a fresh downturn in demand with official data showing weaker than expected exports and stalling import growth last month. Annual growth in imports came in at 0.3% after n increase of 11% was forecasted.

After a positive start to Thursday AUD dropped off later in the day against both the USD and GBP. In fact GBPAUD broke back through the 1.60 barrier against GBP in the afternoon, reaching a 3 day low of 1.5929, this spell of strength was short lived and the pair is currently trading at around 1.6050 this morning.

Interestingly, The Reserve Bank of India urged all foreign exchange earners, including exporters, to convert 50% of their foreign exchange holdings into Indian rupee in an attempt to curb the recent plunge in the currency. This is like a public intervention rather than a more traditional government led intervention like we have seen in Japan.

Marriott Hotels & Resorts has announced plans to open a new 170-room Marriott Hotel in Cali in 2014, under an agreement with Real Hotels and Resorts, S.A. and Grupo Poma.Situated on the corner of Avenida 8 Norte and Calle 9 in the heart of Colonia Granada, the Marriott Cali Hotel will be located in one of Cali’s most desirable areas filled with restaurants, bars and shops.

In addition to 170 guest rooms and suites, the hotel will feature a casual dining restaurant, a sushi bar and a great room. The hotel will also have three different meeting spaces available including the 4,900 square foot ballroom. Recreational facilities include a swimming pool and a fitness center. Other amenities will include a concierge lounge, business center, gift shop and parking garage.

Marriott International is currently represented in Colombia by the 264-room JW Marriott Hotel Bogota and the 239-room Bogota Marriott Hotel. Marriott will open the 278-room Cartagena Marriott Hotel in 2015.

UK

David Cameron was quoted as saying the Liberal Democrats are “holding back” Conservative ambitions in areas including tax policy and reforming human rights law. This revelation came just hours before the governing coalition were due to set out their legislative program for the year yesterday.With no major UK data being released yesterday, traders focus was aimed towards the euro debt contagion issues; however this focus will be deterred today with the MPC Interest Rate meeting at midday, where no change in policy is expected.

GBPEUR spent the whole of yesterday’s trading session trading above the 1.24 levels, hitting a high of 1.2493 overnight, the strong resistance at just under 1.25 has caused the pair to fall back significantly and is currently residing around 1.2450.

GBPUSD traded within a 90 pip range yesterday, posting a high of 1.6156 in early morning trade to then trade at a low of 1.6063 shortly after Wall street opened their session. Cable is now trading around 1.6130, there is strong support in place at 1.61 but a close below this level could trigger further losses for sterling.

UK Manufacturing Production was released this morning at 9.30am, the data was slightly better than forecast, the month-on-month reading was 0.9% against the expected 0.4%. Also year-on-year figures beat expectations of -1.3% to post -0.9%.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Greece are likely to face another election in early June as the nation’s parties appear unlikely to put together a coalition after splintered election results in Sunday’s parliamentary elections. In an unexpected turn of events, the Eurozone decided to withhold €1bn of its next bailout tranche to Greece, the remaining €4.2bn will be disbursed as planned today. Without this €1bn that is already accounted for, Greece face the possibility of not being able to meet their repayments and possibly default next month just before their second election.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday, in an apparent message to Greece that Eurozone members must stick to agreements and the rules of the region’s common currency.

Political uncertainty in Europe continued to put pressure on the euro, while also helping to send the Australian dollar toward parity versus its US counterpart as investors shied away from risk-oriented assets. AUDUSD dropped to its lowest level for 2012, trading at a low of 1.0019 yesterday.

The Polish Central Bank raised interest rates by 0.25% points after signalling the move last month. The Monetary Policy Council raised the benchmark seven-day intervention rate to 4.75%.

Home prices rose in more than half of US metropolitan areas in the first quarter of the year as the housing market showed signs of stability after nearly six years of price declines.

US wholesale inventories rose less than expected in March, held back by the biggest drop in petroleum stocks in nearly two years. Inventories rose 0.3% to $480.44bn, following an unrevised 0.9% jump the previous month, the Commerce Department said Wednesday.

EURUSD traded the day within a 100 pip range for Wednesday, posting a high of 1.3004 and a low of 1.2909. The currency pair finding support from the 1.29 level and with strong resistance holding now just above and below 1.31.

Overnight Aussie employment data beats expectations across the board, bringing GBPAUD back below the 1.60 mark but looks to have now found some support around the 1.5940 mark.

Japanese Current Account data shows an increase from a forecast, however this figure still showed a decline from last month’s reading. The Japanese government continue to support their policy on intervention in the currency markets to control the value of Yen. Last month’s intervention only had a very limited and short lived effect though and traders are expecting stronger action at the end of May. Currently GBPJPY is trading around 128.55.

Marriott International has announced the opening of the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel, located just steps away from the Paseo de Gracia, the premier shopping and architectural district of Barcelona.In celebration of the grand opening, the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel last night hosted an exclusive event featuring a special musical performance by renowned Spanish artist, Rebeka. The performance was part of Renaissance Hotel’s RLife LIVE program, an entertainment and music platform that provides hotel guests and local patrons the chance to discover emerging and established artists on-site at Renaissance Hotels around the world.

The hotel, formerly known as The Diplomatic Hotel, has now reopened as the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel following total renovation. The hotel is centrally located near popular tourist attractions including the famed Hotel Gaudí, where guests can see firsthand the fascinating architecture of Palau Güell. Otherhistoric landmarks just minutes from the hotel include Plaza Catalunya, Las Ramblas, Boquería market and Barrio Gótico – the city’s Gothic Quarter.

Renaissance Hotels is known for encouraging guests to “Live Life to Discover” and get the most out of their travel experience. Earlier this month, the global lifestyle brand launched a new advertising / marketing campaign that encourages today’s business traveller to experience the hidden gems of each Renaissance hotel and to explore the destination with the help of Renaissance Hotels ‘Navigators’ — the brand’s hospitality lifestyle concierge service. The campaign asks traveller the question, “If you are travelling to a destination for business, why not make the most of your free time and discover something exceptional and unique.

An oasis of calm and wellness, the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel’s 211 modern and spacious guestrooms are appointed with signature room amenities including iPod docking stations and flat screen televisions. Stunning views of the Barcelona skyline can be taken in at La Terrassa, the hotel’s sun-drenched roof top bar and lounge featuring flowing waterfalls, while tantalizing dining options include the CRU Steak House and cosmopolitan CUIT Bar and Lounge.

Other highlights include a 24-hour fitness centre, business centre and seven unique facilities for meetings and events, each outfitted with modern technical and AV equipment.

UK

Yesterday, UK BRC Retail Sales Monitor data fell to -3.3% in April y/y. The April RICS House Price Balance also fell 19% versus an expected drop of 11%.GBPEUR held above the 1.24 level for much of the session yesterday. Hitting a low of 1.2386 early in the morning and touched a high of 1.2444 during the Asian session overnight. Possible further bad news on the horizon for Europe could push the pair to the top of the range at 1.25 in the coming sessions, only a close back under 1.2345 will relieve immediate pressure.

GBPUSD again traded within relatively thin trading ranges, hitting a low of 1.6124 and a high of 1.6165 during the last 24 hours trading.
Key support now comes in at 1.6075 and a break and close below this level will confirm and accelerate declines towards 1.5800 medium term. Any rallies look to be well capped at 1.6300.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Continuing uncertainty in Greece following the elections is clearly weighing on the euro and the market reacted by seeing EURUSD drop below the 1.3000 level to hit a low of 1.2963 overnight. For the past 7 trading days, the EURUSD has steadily dropped, and with the current Greek political situation there is likely to be very little relief.

Today’s current account and trade balance reports may confirm more bad news and finally drive the EURUSD to close below 1.30 – opening the door for deeper setbacks over the coming days and weeks towards the 2012 lows from January at 1.2620.

In contrast to European politicians, the ECB has so far categorically rejected the possibility that a country can withdraw from the euro. Yesterday Jörg Asmussen, a ECB executive board member, broke with this line. He told the German newspaper Handelsblatt that Greece should be aware that there is no alternative to the agreed reform program if the country wants to remain a member of the euro zone.

Stronger than expected German data failed to lend any support to the euro. German Industrial Production was stronger than expected in March. Production rose 2.8% on the month, more than the -0.3% markets had expected. Europe’s largest economy remains its strongest, although Monday’s election results from France and Greece threaten to test Berlin’s mettle in demanding tough reforms across the Eurozone.

This morning, German exports and imports rose in March to their highest levels on record, widening the country’s current account surplus as the Trade Balance printed slightly above expectation.

Italian Banks’ ECB Borrowings increase to a record high in April. Total borrowing by Italian banks rose to €271bn from €270bn in March.
Bonds in the Eurozone periphery came under pressure, pushing yields higher. The yield on the Greek bond due 2023 was up nine basis points to 22.89%.

The NOK continues its rapid depreciation in spite of having much more solid economic backdrops than the EUR or the USD. Commodity currencies such as the CAD and NOK are vulnerable to the weaker oil price. For the time being these currencies will remain closely linked to global growth concerns rather than independent economic factors.

The RBA released its annual report, cutting its growth forecast for the present year to 3.0% from 3.5%, attributing the move to the likeliness of a slowdown in China, India and the EU economies, which will hit Australia’s exports sector. GBPAUD hit a high of 1.6047 overnight, the highest rate seen since November 2011.

RBNZ released their Financial Stability Report last night, Bollard mentioned the tools to control NZD appreciation are very limited and that he expects the NZD exchange rate to track with the competitiveness of their economy.

Canadian housing starts came in well ahead of expectations in April. Housing starts jumped 14% to an annual rate of 244,900 in April, expectations were for 204,000. GBPCAD traded between a low of 1.6063 and 1.6135 during the session and USDCAD dropped to parity for the first time in 3 weeks.

This new establishment is only a 3-hour flight away from the main European capitals and is the ideal place for a relaxing and revitalising break. Sofitel Agadir Thalassa is the brand’s second hotel in the bay of Agadir alongside the Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort.The hotel designed by the Moroccan architect Jamal Lamiri Alaoui and the French interior designer Didier Rey inspires serenity and encourages relaxation. These two experts in their respective fields have combined their know-how, culture and personal inspirations to pay tribute to modernity and Moroccan culture.

The 125 rooms and 49 suites, each with its own private patio overlooking the sea and offering a superb view of the bay of Agadir and the remains of its ancient Kasbah, are also an invitation to relax.

A thalassotherapy institute devoted to complete rest
On the edge of the Atlantic, separated only by a stretch of fine sandy beach, the thalassotherapy institute is an integral part of the hotel. With its elegant, pure white decor, this area is devoted to resting and replenishing both mind and body in a healthy ‘detox’ atmosphere.

Every aspect of the Sofitel Agadir Thalassa has been considered to optimise the well-being of each guest thanks to a large range of treatments and accompaniment focusing on techniques for leading a healthy lifestyle and getting back in shape. Some of the cure programmes include consultations with a naturopath who uses natural therapies to boost the body’s vital energy as well as a sporting coach who completes this programme with personalised fitness sessions indoors or on the beach.

The establishment also proposes treatments inspired by Moroccan traditions to awake the senses and re-energize the mind and body. They are the promise of a unique experience combining the benefits of the Sea and the Land since the thalassotherapy treatments are complemented by local products: Argan oil, Barbary fig, orange blossom water, rosewater, honey, and so on.

More general well-being activities are also organised in addition to the individualised treatments. The thalassotherapy facility has 16 spacious booths, leading onto the beach or the hotel gardens, and proposes massages with Argan oil and other essential oils. A therapeutic water course of heated seawater at 32°C is open to all hotel guests to allow everyone to enjoy the health benefits of heated seawater…Other practices such as swimming against the current, aqua fitness and aqua-bike sessions, and step aerobics workouts are also available.

In order to complete the different treatment programmes, the hotel offers a wide choice of hot and cold herbal drinks and fresh fruit juices. Here the thalassotherapy expertise is associated with the health-giving properties of Morocco’s finest products and treatments.

A catering offer devoted to well-being
The hotel’s catering offer is also all about well-being and offers local products prepared according to the very latest dietary trends or traditional Moroccan dishes with a new twist.

There are 3 restaurants, including a gastronomic restaurant called Le Palais du Jardin where the motto ‘‘eat well to live well’’ reflects the choice to use only the freshest products, home-grown in the hotel garden or from the region’s farms, while minimising the use of oils and fats. A naturopath and a dietician contribute to planning the menu to offer guests genuine and personalised support.

Facing the ocean and perched above the gardens and the pool, the aptly-named Le Market restaurant proposes a cuisine of freshly prepared seasonal products.

Finally the poolside restaurant, l’Atlantique, serves a simple cuisine, with particular emphasis on locally-caught fish

UK

Last week, the backlash against European austerity packages put pressure on the UK’s coalition government, the Conservative’s losses were slightly lessened by the fact that Boris Johnson, the current mayor of London, narrowly won his bid for re-election.George Osborne said on Sunday that big losses for government parties in local elections on Thursday didn’t represent a rejection of his austerity program, but instead a plea from voters to focus on fixing the economy.

GBPEUR broke the 1.24 barrier following French presidential elections. The pair peaked at 1.2445 at 22:00 on Sunday, the highest level for sterling since November 2008. Last week’s resistance of 1.2345 now acts as a support and a close back under this level will be required to relieve immediate pressures.

GBPUSD traded within a 71 pip range over the bank holiday moving from 1.6118 on Monday morning peaking at 1.6189. With risk aversion the key theme of the week so far there is a risk of fresh weakness down below 1.60. However with sterling currently being the traders favourite, support levels of 1.6120 and 1.6057 could prove resilient.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Last Friday, US Non-Farm Payrolls grew by only 115,000 in April, but on aggregate the release was pretty neutral because of the positive revisions previously.

The total US unemployment rate has fallen again, hitting 8.1% in April , its lowest level since Jan 2009 but this was due largely to a contraction in the labour market rather than acceleration in job growth.

France’s socialist candidate Francois Hollande won the presidential election on Sunday with a reported 51.62% of the votes cast. Sarkozy becomes the 11th Eurozone leader to be ousted during the sovereign-debt crisis. Political uncertainty is never good for a country’s currency and in the case of the euro it has been a constant threat.

Europe and France are not doomed to austerity – according to Francois Hollande. He said in his first speech “Austerity is not an inevitability”. These type of statements are worrying investors across the globe about the prospect of the EU leaders changing their policy on how to recover from their sovereign debt crisis.

EURUSD dropped to 1.2955 during the Asian session after the elections, its lowest point since January . During the UK bank holiday the pair traded back over 1.30, currently trading at around 1.3018. A close under 1.30 will open the 2012 low of 1.2655 as a bearish target. In the meantime 1.32 looks to be the range top now.

With no clear winner in Greek elections, New Democracy leader Antonis Samaras failed to forge an agreement to form a new government. Election results raised questions about the country’s euro membership and triggered the biggest stock-market drop in six months.

Greek political uncertainty tops the headlines as risks are pointing to a likely re-election which would take place at the earliest in mid-June. A delay could threaten the current Greek bailout should it delay implementation of the necessary austerity measures.

Yesterday saw an improvement in German factory orders which rose by 2.2%, beating expectations only 0.5%.

Today, with the spotlight already firmly fixed on Europe, there will be a great deal of interest in ECB President Draghi’s speech at 1.30pm today.

Australian building Approvals and Retail Sales both rose over the weekend, seeing GBPAUD drop nearly a cent to 1.5879 from 1.5942. Australia posted its third-straight trade deficit in March as shipments of key exports such as coal and iron ore once again fell. The deficit figure reinforced the RBA decision to slash interest rates by 50 basis points last week.

There are basic design and aesthetic rules on the use of colour. With the move back to pattern and colour from the off-white minimalism of the last decade or so, it seems appropriate to take a fresh look at some of these rules.

Artists revel in colour and its power. You only have to sit in front of a Monet to realize the powerful emotional tug colour can have. His abstracted use of colour through his ‘Water Lilies’ series and the observational changes he records through series such as the ‘Haystacks’ show the power of colour to change perceptions. This work has continued to be exploited and extended through the work of artists such as Bridget Riley and Dan Flavin.
This very power makes the misuse of colour an abuse of the viewer. Professional designers are often guilty of colour misapplication and poor taste, creating violent clashes or room schemes that do not support the room’s function. It’s not as if the rules of colour are new. Goethe first expounded a printed theory of colour many centuries ago, and related colour to emotions. The Greek and Romans had symbolic meanings for colour in earlier millennia, some of which are still at the base of the theories of colour taught in art schools.

Artists like Klee and Albers, and designers such as Itten worked with designers closely at the various iterations of the Bauhaus in developing theories of colour in interiors, carpets etc., some of the effects of which are only lately being revealed through the work of the restoration groups on Bauhaus properties in Germany. Yet despite this research, and the teaching of colour theory in art college across the world, ignorance in the use of colour continues to be displayed.

Continued on page two…

Plans for Bennetts Associates Architects’ new 5-star Queen Hithe Hotel were approved by the City of London last week. The project for Resolution Properties will redevelop a historic, riverside site southeast of St Paul’s Cathedral, replacing a disparate group of buildings with a new, elegant piece of architecture.The project will see the replacement of three tired 1960s buildings, including one which spans Upper Thames Street and the retention of an existing bridge structure over Upper Thames Street, with a new 200,000 sq ft, 224 bedroom hotel and adjoining private riverside residential block.

Constrained by St Paul’s Cathedral’s heights and the retained bridge structure, the hotel forms a distinctive wedge-shape which extends over the full length of the tight site. Where the building touches the ground it also has to negotiate the Scheduled Ancient Monuments which partially occupy the site, including the remains of Huggin Hill Roman Baths to the north and the original Queenhithe dock to the south.

The building’s facades will consist of layered materials, with a stone base below podium level, anchoring the building in the City. Upper floors will be clad in lighter, reflective materials and include recesses to provide solar shading and brightly coloured reveals to further animate the façade.

The lower levels of the eight storey hotel building will house public spaces, including restaurant and conference facilities. At the south end of the hotel, a double-height glazed reception area and first floor hotel bar will have spectacular river views, overlooking Shakespeare’s Globe and South Bank.

Hotel bedrooms predominantly face east and west and will have angled windows, maximising views to the tower of St Mary Somerset to the northwest and sightlines to St Paul’s Cathedral and the tower of St James Garlickhythe at higher levels.

Three of the nine riverside apartments will sit above the hotel bar at the south of the main hotel building, whilst the remainder will be housed in the adjoining block to the east.

The project will also allow for a new walkway between Queens Quay House and Bull Wharf, completing the final link in the City of London’s riverside pedestrian route.

The scheme is scheduled to start on site in early 2012.

The world’s largest exhibition for lighting and building-services, the “Light & Building” in Frankfurt, closed its doors on April 20th. More than 196,000 visitors took the chance to visit the show which is an increase of almost 7% compared with 2010.Baulmann Leuchten from Sundern unveiled its latest product-developments at the show. Besides several new product-lines equipped with energy-saving LED-lamps, the main attraction on the show has been a new stunning pendant luminaire.

Being the centre-piece of the exhibition booth, this pendant luminaire had a diameter of 4.5 metres!

Equipped with dimmable electronic ballasts for energy saving TC-L lamps, the elements of this luminaire can be controlled individually, to allow a permanent change of the aspect of the luminaire.

All pictures are copyright by “Baulmann Leuchten”.

Having successfully opened its first hotel in India – Swissôtel Kolkata – in July 2010, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, the international hotel group of Swiss origin signed a management contract for a flagship project in India: Swissôtel Grand Mumbai. This is in addition to one more hotel under development for the brand in Bangalore. Located on Andheri Kurla Road in the heart of the new business district in the north of Mumbai, the new Swissôtel Grand Mumbai will offer a total of 300 guest rooms, executive rooms and suites. The hotel’s conference and banqueting facilities will occupy a total area of around 1600m² including the main ballroom measuring 500m2 alone. The hotel will also have a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation – the Pürovel Spa & Sport centre.

The hotel is in close proximity to a number of new grade A offices occupied by numerous multinational companies. The Andheri Kurla area, which has approximately 20% of Mumbai’s commercial office space supply, also features new shops and restaurants as well as a new metro line. Swissôtel Grand Mumbai is strategically situated in this prominent business district of the city with easy access to the international airport, which is undergoing major redevelopment, and the rapidly expanding suburbs that are benefiting from improving transport connectivity. The five-star business hotel is due to open in 2014.

“This exciting project at the heart of Mumbai’s commercial centre will drive forward our expansion in the highly promising Indian market,” commented Meinhard Huck, President Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. “India is the world’s second-largest nation and the numbers involved are huge. India is set to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2020 and consumer demand, particularly in the cities, is continually rising. A robust domestic tourism industry coupled with the increasing global nature of Indian businesses is boosting business travel and providing a very healthy platform for the growth of the hospitality industry. Amid this environment we see considerable potential for our hotel group and are pleased to be working with a renowned partner, the Litolier Group, which appreciates our Swiss values.“ HVS, a global services and consulting organisation focused on the hospitality industry served as advisor to the Litolier Group during the operator search and management contract negotiations.

Mumbai is the commercial and entertainment capital of India, it is also one of the world’s top 10 centres of commerce in terms of global financial flow, generating 70 per cent of maritime trade in India and 70 per cent of capital transactions to India’s economy. Mumbai is home to financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India, the SEBI and the corporate headquarters of numerous Indian companies and multinational corporations.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the signing of three new Holiday Inn Express hotels in Colombia. The hotels, owned and managed by Grupo Contempo S.A., under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group, will be located in the key cities of Bogota, Cartagena and Barranquilla. IHG’s relationship with Grupo Contempo began in 2008 with the signing and opening of the Holiday Inn Express Bogota in the vibrant neighbourhood of “Parque de la 93.” The new properties, scheduled to open in 2014, will add 450 rooms to IHG’s existing portfolio in Colombia, which currently includes eight hotels and 1,910 rooms. The new hotels will also complement IHG’s four existing Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties in the country.

The Holiday Inn Express Bogota OXO 67th will be the second hotel that Grupo Contempo will develop in Colombia’s capital city, Bogota. The hotel will be part of a mixed-use complex, consisting of an office tower, a hotel tower and retail on the ground floor. The seven-story, 100-room hotel will be located in the heart of the financial district, close to the main corporate offices of major multinational companies; embassies and consulates; the National Theater; and “Zona G” (G Zone), renowned for its restaurants and bars.

The 200-room Holiday Inn Express Cartagena will be located in the heart of the Bocagrande district, one of the city’s most popular tourist spots. Encircled by a vibrant commercial and residential area, the 15-story hotel will be within close proximity to a variety of popular restaurants, shops, cafes and bars. The Holiday Inn Express Cartagena will boast a business centre, a swimming pool and a fitness facility.

The Holiday Inn Express Barranquilla will be situated adjacent to the modern Buenavista Shopping Mall & Entertainment Center in one of Barranquilla’s most exclusive neighbourhoods. The 18-story, 150-room hotel is within walking distance to a variety of high-end boutiques, shops and restaurants. The hotel will also feature a swimming pool, a business centre and a fitness facility.

Standard Holiday Inn Express guest rooms feature comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, in room coffee machine. Business travellers will find large desks with ergonomic chairs and free high-speed internet access.

Sunflower Hospitality LLC, Delant Construction Co. and Choice Hotels International, Inc. have recently celebrated the official groundbreaking of a new Cambria Suites hotel in Miami, Fla. The Miami property signifies the continued expansion of the Cambria Suites brand into major urban markets, following the recent announcement of two new development deals in New York City and one in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Choice Hotels has acquired land parcels in five other major markets for potential future development.The 122-suite hotel will be located along Highway 836 near Miami International Airport, on the 6700th block of NW 7th Street. Delant Construction Co. of South Florida serves as general contractor for the hotel project. The groundbreaking ceremony was held today at the construction site with business, community and government leaders in attendance.

The $16 million, 85,500-square-foot, seven-story building is expected to be completed in summer of 2013. The hotel will have 1,800 square feet of conference room space, as well as an outdoor pool and terrace. Hotel guestrooms will feature stunning views of nearby Lake Mahar. Two hundred construction jobs are expected to be created as a result of this hotel development. In addition, the hotel will employ approximately 60 staff members on an ongoing basis, and is expected to generate in excess of approximately $50,000 in tax revenue per year to the Miami-Dade area.

Sunflower Hospitality LLC has historical success in developing shopping centers, bars, restaurants and hotels. This is their first Cambria Suites development. Ocean Bank’s financial backing has been integral in the hotel development.

The Cambria Suites hotel brings the latest in hotel innovation to the Miami-Dade area. Each room will be a spacious suite that’s larger than most standard hotel rooms, and includes separate work and living areas with ergonomic chairs, movable desks and luxury linens. Each room will offer the latest in technology, including two flat-screen LCD televisions and MediaHub™ plug-and-play technology, allowing guests to connect their laptop, MP3 player, game console, digital camera or CD/DVD player hassle-free. Free high-speed wired and wireless Internet access will be available throughout the hotel so that guests can stay connected even while vacationing.

Like all Cambria Suites hotels, the Miami property will feature: Reflect, a casual dining and gathering area serving a dinner menu, liquor, wine, beer, freshly prepared grab-and-go gourmet salads and sandwiches, a barista bar featuring Wolfgang Puck® coffee and a hot breakfast buffet; Refresh, a state-of-the-art fitness center with an elegant pool and hot tub/spa area; and Refill, a 24-7 convenience store that offers energy drinks, snacks and sundries.

SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the launch of a multi-million dollar renovation to a premier Snowmass resort in preparation for its re-opening under the Westin flag in time for the 2012-2013 ski season. Formerly known as the Silvertree Hotel & Conference Center, the 254-room resort will fully renovate all guest rooms and public areas in order to implement the full suite of Westin signature amenities, designed to inspire wellbeing. Owned by a joint venture between Starwood Capital Group and Wasserman Real Estate, The Westin Snowmass Resort boasts an unbeatable location at the heart of Snowmass Village, adjacent to the ski slopes of Snowmass, one of Colorados most prestigious ski mountains.The Westin Snowmass Resort will feature 254 rooms and expand its suite offerings to 20, all with spectacular slope-side views. The resorts brand-new restaurant The Snowmass Kitchen will offer all-day dining with easy ski-in/ski-out access. The existing gym will be transformed into a first-class spa facility and a brand-new WestinWORKOUT® fitness center will overlook Snowmass Village. The resorts upper pool will be redeveloped into a landscaped space ideally suited for outdoor events, and the lower pool will be rebuilt to include two spacious hot tubs. The 20,000 square-foot conference center will be fully renovated and is scheduled to re-open by June 1, 2012.

Located in the heart of Snowmass, The Westin Snowmass Resort is walking distance to the shops and restaurants of Snowmass Village. The resort overlooks the slopes of Snowmass and is also convenient to three other ski areas Aspen, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Aspen/Snowmass is not only one of the worlds most sought-after ski destinations, but it is also a leading destination for summer vacationers, complete with white-water rafting, championship golf courses, horseback riding, hot air balloon rides and hiking.

The sensory-rich environment at Westin offers a respite from the rigors of travel and sets a welcoming tone. Upon entering the lobby, guests will begin to breathe more easily as they are greeted with soothing elements like relaxed lighting, natural botanicals and stimulating music. All guestrooms will feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed with lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly® Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brands Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.