Hotel Designs

UK

Governor King said yesterday the UK economy is not yet back to health and needs the support of low interest rates. Bank of England officials are preparing for a decision next week on whether to extend their QE program to lift the economy from its first double-dip recession since 1975.On the political front Labour party made sweeping gains in a grim night for the coalition in local elections. Labour gained 461 seats and 21 councils, the Conservatives are down around 278 seats. As we experienced during the hung parliament, political uncertainty is not good for sterling.

Disappointing UK Services PMI released early yesterday morning weighed heavily on sterling for the day’s trading and halted the steady progress from recent sessions.

GBPEUR closed a shade below its next significant target of 1.2315 yesterday, hitting a high of 1.2338 and a low of 1.2277 during the ECB press conference. GBPEUR has strong technical support above 1.2211. This morning markets have opened around 1.2305, a repeat of last month’s poor European Retail Sales data today could push sterling to a new high.

There was little change on GBPUSD yesterday with just a 55 pip range from the day high and low at 1.6215 and 1.6160. Markets have opened this morning at around 1.6180 and analysts are expecting a bearish resumption over the coming weeks as sterling has somehow managed to maintain a strong position versus the US dollar despite the recent poor UK economic data.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

German and European Services PMI both fell short of forecast this morning. The German Services sector still held on to its positive outlook with a figure of 52.2, however the outlook in Europe has dropped now to 46.9 from 47.9 in February.

Mario Draghi surprised the currency market by assuming a defiantly hawkish posture at the ECB press conference yesterday dismissing any speculation of an imminent rate cut or even an additional LTRO. The EURUSD responded by moving from 1.3096 to 1.3176 and GBPEUR fell from 1.2338 to 1.2277.

Despite confirming the economic slowdown that is starting to affect the stronger economies of France and Germany, Draghi remained upbeat about a return to growth in the Eurozone in second half of this year. Draghi appealed for patience noting that more time was needed for the LTRO to filter its way through the European monetary system.

This Sunday will see parliamentary elections in Greece and presidential elections in France. Markets will be particularly eager to see the results in France, with favourite Francois Hollande expected to take over from Sarkozy this has largely been viewed as having a negative impact on money markets.

Service Industries in the US expanded less than projected and consumer confidence weakened, signalling the world’s largest economy may be cooling. Risk appetite fell as a result with the S & P 500 falling nearly 1% after the data. The two sets of labour data due this afternoon will be critical to risk appetite and the near term trends for US dollar.

The Swiss Real Retail sales Figure Year-on-Year came in this morning at 4.2%, much higher than the expected 1.1% and a big increase from the previous figure of 0.8%. Generally, an increase in this figure is good for the currency although we have seen little change in the GBPCHF this morning.

The Reserve Bank of Australia lowered its growth and inflation forecasts in its Monetary Policy statement Friday but the Aussie dollar’s reaction was muted, with GBPAUD currently residing at 1.5770.

GBPNZD rose to its highest level in more than four months after a report yesterday showed the New Zealand jobless rate unexpectedly rose. GBPNZD traded as high as 2.0233 overnight.

Like a jewel in a crown, the new luxury boutique hotel Casa San Agustín will open in Cartagena de Indias in Summer 2012 after a complete renovation. Simply elegant and uniquely authentic, the property features 22 rooms and 9 suites and is destined to set a new standard of luxury in Colombia. The hotel creates an architecturally unique atmosphere by preserving 3 Colonial buildings and an ancient aqueduct. Casa San Agustín sits within the walled city of Cartagena, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site which is rich in palaces, gardens, convents and churches, conserving all the enchantment of the Colonial period. The narrow streets are flanked by beautiful doors and projecting balconies with trailing blooms mimicking the romantic Andalusian style, leaving an indelible mark on this beautiful city nestled on a bay on the Caribbean Sea. Accommodations feature exceptional amenities, yet it is the unique architectural character of the buildings themselves that make Casa San Agustín such a luxurious experience. Wooden beamed ceilings soar up to 25 feet (6 meters); arched windows allow light to flood into the guest rooms and suites; breezy balconies and flowered terraces create and preserve an authentic Colombian style within the chic yet relaxed atmosphere of Casa San Agustín.

Many furnishings have been crafted by artisans and a series of singularly designed ironwork chandeliers have been designed for the restaurant, bar and outdoor terraces. Pure whites, deep blues and shades of green are reflective of the Caribbean Sea and influence the colour palette throughout the hotel. Four-poster beds furnish each room and suite while a select number of rooms feature private plunge pools or Jacuzzis. To satisfy the needs of the most discerning traveller, modern technology has been seamlessly woven into every aspect of the hotel.

From the individually decorated rooms and suites with their refined details, Casa San Agustín will resonate with true luxury and authentic sophistication, setting an enduring standard for Cartagena. Tailor-made services provide an added touch of luxury to the amenities that are offered. From assistance with organizing a wedding, to arranging a private boat excursion to the Islas de Rosario, the seasoned professionals at the hotel will manage your requests with ease.

Restaurant Alma
Restaurant Alma will feature al fresco dining in the courtyard of Casa San Agustín and guests of the hotel as well as the locals will gather to imbibe and dine on local specialties. The bar and poolside lounge will invite guests for tapas style portions along with a refreshing mix of cocktails. The chef will showcase the region’s rich choice of produce from freshly caught seafood to local beef.

Private Terrace + Bar
The third floor terrace overlooks the rooftops of the city and will serve as a solarium for hotel guests during the day, offering an alternative place to relax. During the evening, the terrace transforms into a “By Invitation Only” lounge for locals and guests.

Casa San Agustín
Casa San Agustín is managed by Trust Hospitality, as part of its collection of independently created boutique hotels. High in style, distinct and creative, each of these lifestyle hotels have one-of-a-kind architecture and interior design, allowing guests to expect just as much from their hotel as they do from their destination.

Based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, K. S. McRorie Interior Design is responsible for the interiors of Casa San Agustín and founder Kelley McRorie brings a keen attention to detail and an understanding of each client’s ideals. McRorie created environments have a sophisticated and less commercial feel – designs that translate to the true meaning of hospitality. The firm is focused on delivering outstanding results and making the process of creating beautiful spaces enjoyable and rewarding.

An award-winning hotel in Chester has recently completed a £400,000 refurbishment on a conceptual bar and restaurant which aims to emulate the pomp and pageantry of the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations.The new Jubilee Room and Bar at the Best Western Premier Queen Hotel is an innovative marketing initiative created by the Feathers Hotel Group’s Managing Director, Stuart Hunter, and Preston-based designer Nita Patel, in a bid to attract international guests who are keen to visit the UK in its spotlight year, as well as existing visitors who want to get into the spirit of the Jubilee celebrations.

The creative and highly conceptual space features stately Union Jack-decorated thrones, a toy soldier-themed bar, a gallery of Queen’s head postage stamps throughout the years of her reign and quirky paintings reflecting the grandness of the royal household.

Since the bar’s official opening four weeks ago, the Queen Hotel has seen a substantial rise in the number of international visitors from America, Japan and all across Europe, as well as an increase in interest from existing mid-week corporate and leisure clients.

Stuart Hunter, Managing Director of The Feathers Group, said: “Britain is an exciting place to be in 2012 and with the forthcoming Jubilee celebrations we thought it was appropriate to mark such a great event with a unique design approach.

“The quirky features and Royal theme of the Jubilee Bar and Restaurant have become a real talking point amongst guests from around the country and overseas, and even our wedding last Friday saw the Bride and Groom insisting they had their wedding reception in the Jubilee Room perched on Union Jack thrones.

“We’re thrilled to have created a unique, fun and engaging environment in which guests can celebrate British culture and heritage; it will undoubtedly reinforce goodwill with existing clients and create further demand through our marketing channels.”

To complement the Royal theme, the hotel’s award-winning Head Chef, Simon Davies, has created an innovative ‘Best of British’ menu which features favourite British dishes sourced from local produce and served up with a unique twist.

The rest of the hotel also has a distinct stately feel, with visitors having the option to feel like a Royal in the Kings Executive Rooms where guests are escorted to individually-named and themed Kings room, with each floor devoted to a set of Kings from around the world.

The Queen Hotel will be offering Jubilee breaks from now and throughout the summer, with their ‘Best of British’ menu running throughout the year. There will also be a Street Party in the hotel’s gardens and grounds on the day of the Jubilee on Tuesday 5th June 2012.

UK

The pound rose to the highest level in 22 months against a broadly weaker euro reaching a high of 1.2325 helped by reports which showed UK PMI construction rose to 55.8 in April against expectations of 54.0 and UK mortgage approvals unexpectedly rose in March to 49.86k. Against the dollar, sterling starting the day trading near the session low of 1.6159 but recovered in the afternoon to end the session near the high of 1.6238.

UK Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne made a last-minute decision to attend yesterday’s meeting of European Union finance ministers due to indications that the gathering could result in key decisions being made on new bank capital rules.

Further QE for the UK economy is still an option, Bank of England rate setter Paul Fisher told a daily newspaper that additional bond buying, or QE is still an option on the table and the reluctance of banks to lend in the UK is a barrier to economic growth.

This morning Nationwide house prices fell on average by 0.2% in April from March and 0.9% on the year.

In data just released, UK PMI Services, widely regarded as the most important of the 3 PMI’s, has fallen to 53.3 from 55.3 last month and missed the forecast of 54.2. So far the currency markets have shown a muted response GBPEUR is marginally off overnight highs of 1.2320 at 1.2296 and GBPUSD is 1.6162.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The euro suffered heavy losses against its main trading partners yesterday after economic indicators underpinned fears of a deepening slump in Eurozone manufacturing, contrasting unfavourably with Monday’s robust US manufacturing data. In particular EURUSD fell for the third day from the high of 1.3240 to end the session near the low of 1.3122. From a technical point of view, 1.3100 has become the new psychological support level whilst 1.3032 is the April 9th low if the declines continue.

Italy’s construction data was among the standouts, sinking to 43.8 further below the 50 cut off point that distinguishes growth from contraction. Germany finished off the bad run with a below-consensus 46.2 compared with an expected 46.3.

Eurozone unemployment rate rose to 10.9% in March the highest level since the euro was formed in 1999 as spending cuts continued to hit the working population.

Speculation that ECB President Mario Draghi will signal today that policy makers are moving closer to cutting interest rates to spur growth in the Eurozone also put the euro under pressure, over the past 12 months it has weakened 6.6%, the worst performer of the 10 developed-nation currencies.

On a more positive note, Greece has had its government debt rating raised out of default by credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s. S&P upgraded the crisis-hit nation to “CCC” from “selective default” after the country completed the biggest debt restructuring in history earlier this year.

Private-sector jobs in the US increased by just 119,000 last month, according to a national employment report calculated by payroll processor ADP, the gain was far below economists’ expectations of 175,000.

US factory orders fell by 1.5% in March which is the sharpest pace in three years, a sign that demand is slowing amid an uneven economic recovery.

Spain will auction 3 + 5-year bonds today amid speculation that the Eurozone’s fourth-largest economy will follow Greece, Ireland and Portugal in seeking a bailout.

China’s manufacturing expanded at the fastest pace in a year rising to 53.3 in April from 53.1 in March, reducing pressure on policy makers to open the taps on credit in the world’s second-largest economy. This is the fifth straight month in a row the reading has been above 50 which shows expansion in the field.

Great Hotels of the World are pleased to announce the opening of a brand new hotel, Thon Hotel EU, which will officially open on 26 April 2012, following a 24-month development.Thon Hotel EU is a member of Great Hotels of the World’s Premium Collection. This innovative hotel is ideally situated in the heart of the city’s European district and within easy reach of public transport links. It is also near to the city’s main historical and cultural attractions, including the Grand Place and the Natural Science Museum. The hotel is also just 15 minutes from the airport by car. The impressive four-star property has benefitted from the creative input of Altiplan Architects, who have created a modern yet fully functional building with open, bright and airy spaces. The interior of the property was designed by Norwegian designer Trond Ramsokar, whose concept for the hotel was based around light, serenity and modern comforts.

The establishment will boast 405 bright and modern guestrooms and 37 spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments spread over eight floors. Thon Hotel EU will also offer excellent meeting facilities with its 10 multipurpose conference rooms, catering for up to 300 delegates in theatre-style. The largest conference room can be divided into three smaller rooms, providing an ideal setting for gala dinners, conferences, weddings and cocktail parties. All meeting and conference rooms have access to natural daylight and are fully equipped with essential audio and technical equipment. One meeting room will be specifically designated for video conferences.

Guests can enjoy sumptuous international cuisine at The Twelve restaurant, inspired by the European flag and its twelve stars. The Twelve will boast 220 seats with the possibility of adding a further 130 places in an adjacent room. Simultaneously, the hotel will offer a terrace garden, cocooned in the heart of the main building, with design elements of a Moroccan riad. The terrace will offer a further 60 seats for The Twelve restaurant.

Similar to other Thon properties where shopping centres are a core business focus, Thon Hotel EU will also contain a shopping gallery – the Thon Passage, with a surface area of 900sqm. Other facilities of the hotel include a lounge bar, state-of-the-art fitness centre and an underground car park.

Respect for the environment and protecting the planet are two of the Thon Hotel Group’s main priorities. Thon Hotel EU will invest 72,500 Euros to create solar panels as well as an additional 18,000 Euros reserved towards green contribution, including mixing valves for eco-friendly showers. Further investment has been made to ensure that the property can create its own green energy on site. The property will also educate its staff and clients alike with regards to the protection of the environment. Moreover, the hotel will promote recycling, and will request that suppliers group their orders into as few deliveries as possible, choose green products and offer guests a special Green Package.

With recent hotel openings in Ningbo, Sanya, Yangzhou and Xian, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced it has surpassed the opening of its 100th operating hotel in China with plans to open 15 additional hotels by the end of this year. With eight hotels already opened in the first quarter of 2012, Starwood will open a total of 23 hotels in China in 2012, which is on pace with 2011 openings making 2012 the second consecutive year the company has opened a record number of hotels here in any one year. Since Starwood’s landmark debut of The Great Wall Sheraton Hotel in Beijing in 1985, China has now become Starwood’s second largest market in the world after the United States and Starwood continues to lead as the largest high-end hotel operator in the country. Looking ahead, Starwood’s growth in China is being fuelled by the power of its Sheraton and Westin brands and, increasingly, the momentum of the company’s mid-market brands – Aloft and Four Points by Sheraton which now boasts the company’s second largest pipeline in China behind Sheraton.

Sheraton and Westin Continue to Fuel Growth in China, Including Starwood’s Largest Hotel – Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central
Sheraton is slated to open nine new hotels across China in 2012, reaching a total of nearly 80 hotels there by 2015. More than one-third of Starwood’s new hotels in China will fly the Sheraton flag, building on the brand’s 30-year legacy in the country. In mid-September, the iconic Sheraton brand will also celebrate the opening of the first phase of the 3,863-room Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central which will be the largest Sheraton, as well as the largest Starwood hotel, in the world. Offering three restaurants with poolside cafes, 20,000 sq m of meeting space and two outdoor swimming pools, Sheraton Macao is a highly anticipated addition to Cotai Strip, also known as the “Las Vegas of Asia.”

Westin will open four new hotels in China in 2012, resulting in a portfolio of 18 properties in this key market by year’s end, extending the brand’s reach in second and third tier cities. The new Westin hotels will open in fast-growing cities across China, including Ningbo, Xiamen, Changbaishan and Taiyuan.

Starwood Continues to Grow Luxury Brands in China
After a successful year in 2011 opening St. Regis hotels in Tianjin, Sanya, and Shenzhen, Starwood’s Luxury Collection brand will open two hotels this year – Twelve at Hengshan in Shanghai and The Royal Begonia on Hainan Island, China’s first Luxury Collection resort. The Luxury Collection launched in China in 2010, with a suitably iconic property – The Astor Hotel – in Tianjin.

Starwood Rolls Out Global Starwood Personalized Travel to 1,100 Hotels Around the World
Following the successful pilot in key gateway cities across the globe, Starwood rolled out Starwood Personalized Travel to its nearly 1,100 hotels worldwide. Chinese guests are now able to experience personalized home-away-from-home touches, including in-room tea kettles, slippers, translated welcome materials and on-site translation services, as well as familiar Chinese favourites like congee.

SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Marriott International has announced the opening of the 342-room Renaissance Huizhou Hotel in China. The hotel opened under a long-term management agreement with Guangzhou R&F Properties Development Co., Ltd. an existing long-term partner. The Renaissance Huizhou offers 247 deluxe rooms, 76 club rooms, 18 club suites and one Presidential suite. Each stylish guestroom offers a minimum of 47 square meters of space with a number of well-appointed amenities including LCD screen television, high speed internet and Wi-Fi access, and an iPod docking station. The interior design reflects the Renaissance Hotels design philosophy which offers modern and stylish touches balanced with authentic Chinese décor.

Hakka motifs are used to depict local customs while contrasting décor such as Asian-inspired wooden walls and modern western art deco expressions are used to articulate the complimentary coexistence of both Eastern and Western cultures in the city. The Club Lounge, located on the 47th and 48th floor offers spectacular West Lake and East River views. All club floor guests are entitled to complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon high tea, evening cocktail, wireless internet access and two-hour meeting room usage.

The Renaissance Huizhou Hotel offers an exciting array of beverage and food facilities which consist of four restaurants and lounges located on the 28th and 29th floors, serving an extensive range of local and international cuisines. BLD café’s atmosphere is reflected in the very best of buffet dishes cooked from the show kitchens allowing guests to discover tastes from around the world. Wan Li Restaurant offers delicate dim sum, traditional Cantonese cuisine and classic Hakka cuisine featuring seven elegantly designed private rooms.

Those in the mood for sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki will be inspired by Yuzu Japanese Grill’s offerings in a spectacular architectural design. The Lounge located on the 29th floor is absolutely the perfect place to end the busy working day or relax yourself on the weekend. Finally, all outlets indulge in a breathtaking river view to engage guests in a delightful lifestyle experience.

With 11 dedicated meeting rooms and total event spaces across 2,280 square meters, including a 550-square meters, natural day light foyer with full river view and a 1,380-square meter grand ballroom which can be divisible into five sections, the hotel offers extensive banquet facilities equipped with brightly art light and modern sound system to ensure every of your unique business or social requirement is well accommodated.

For relaxation, guests can enjoy the indoor swimming pool with a glass roof or the 24-hour fitness center fully equipped with modern cardio machines, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room on the 30th floor. Enoch Touch Spa in the hotel offers seven treatment rooms and serves guests relieving stress by their professional massage therapist.

The Renaissance Huizhou Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Jiang Bei Central Business District and serves as the highest building in Huizhou. The hotel’s close proximity to Huizhou City Government, International Convention Center, key office buildings and a luxury shopping mall make it a perfect location for those visiting the city on business.

UK

GBPUSD began Friday’s session at the low of 1.6179 and moved to an 8-month high at 1.6278 in late trading which is a level not seen since 31st August 2011, markets have seen little change over the weekend and opened this morning at 1.6284. GBPUSD has now rallied from a low 1.5818 to a high of 1.6300 in only 10 trading days as QE3 expectations have increased.GBPEUR opened at 1.2292 on Friday and eventually closed the day at 1.2255. Markets opened this morning at 1.2293 and has reached a high of 1.2306, struggling to breach the next resistance level at 1.2307.

Governor Mervyn King has 10 days left to decide on whether to risk halting stimulus for an economy trying to shake off a recession. Reports starting tomorrow on manufacturing, construction and services, as well as consumer credit and house prices, will set the scene for data building up to a decision on QE on May 10.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

The US dollar weakened across most major currencies since Friday as US GDP came out worse than expected at 2.2% compared to a 2.6% forecast.

During Friday’s session EURUSD hit a high of 1.3270 after starting at 1.3156 which was the low of the day. The weekend trading saw the Euro recover some losses and this morning is trading comfortably above 1.32 again, reaching a high of 1.3264.

Data released this morning showed German Retail Sales continued to improve, posting 2.3% on an annualized basis.

Eurozone Consumer Price Index has showed that inflation across Europe has fallen slightly but less than expected. The smaller than expected fall means ECB are less likely to be forced into further stimulus. This has had a fairly muted effect on the currency markets and EURUSD remains near today’s open price at 1.3229.

S&P Managing Director Moritz Kraemer has said that if Spanish debt ratio slips much further, additional rating downgrades will be likely and create downside risk to almost all euro zone sovereign ratings.

On Friday the Spanish government announced a VAT rise in 2013 and also released data showing unemployment has hit a record high reaching 24.4% and is expected to rise further throughout 2012. Spain has the highest unemployment rate in the EU.

Swiss central bank president Thomas Jordan commented on whether the SNB should introduce negative interest rates stating “We haven’t introduced negative interest rates because the minimum exchange rate has worked very well so far and because it wasn’t necessary”.

On Friday the Italian 10-year bonds were sold at yields of 5.84% which was higher than the previous months at 5.24%.

In early Asian trading on Friday we saw the bank of Japan expand the size of its Asset purchase fund by JPY10 trillion to JPY40 trillion adding that it also believes its 1% inflation target will be reached. After only a two hour rally up to 131.65, the pair has retreated again to trade around 130.50 since the intervention.

Accor have pulled together all their environmental initiatives into a programme they call Planet 21. Ths is their video presentation explaining how it works.Accor’s commitment to sustainable development dates back many years, with practical initiatives such as the creation of an environment department 20 years ago, of an Hotel Environment charter in 1998 and the adoption of many solutions aimed at contributing to the development of local communities, optimizing water and energy consumption and reducing its hotels’ environmental footprint.

Every property undergoes an environmental audit and improvements are linked in to operational team bonuses. One hotel reduced its energy bill by 50% just as a result of the audit changing working practices.

Intrinsically linked to sustainable development, the name PLANET 21 refers to Agenda 21, the action plan adopted by 173 Heads of State at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. It also echoes the urgent need to focus efforts in the 21st century to change our production and consumption patterns with the goal of protecting our planet, its people and their environment

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has announced a partnership with Clean the World to recycle partially-used soaps and bottled amenities from hotel guest rooms and distribute them in communities with limited access to hygiene products.Clean the World Foundation Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization that is committed to stopping the spread of preventable diseases by collecting, recycling and distributing hotel guest room amenities to children and families in the United States, Canada and more than 45 countries worldwide. Through its sustainable and socially responsible efforts, including a patented method of sterilizing soaps during the recycling process to remove potential germs and pathogens, Clean the World has helped divert more than 1.4 million lbs. of hotel waste from local landfills.

Through this partnership, IHG has the potential to add 3,274 properties in the United States and Canada, representing 407,840 rooms, to Clean the World’s growing list of more than 1,400 hospitality partners throughout North America. IHG brands that can participate in the program include:
– InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts
– Hotel Indigo®
– Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts
– Holiday Inn® Hotels and Resorts
– Holiday Inn Express®
– Staybridge Suites®
– Candlewood Suites®

The agreement lends corporate support for all IHG brands to join the Clean the World hospitality partnership program, which provides implementation training, supplies and shipping for guest room amenities collected each day at participating properties. Nearly 70 IHG branded properties are already involved with Clean the World, and have helped collect 268,517 soap bars and divert more than 40.5 tons of hotel waste from local landfills.

Clean the World aligns well with IHG’s Green Engage program, a comprehensive online sustainability system which measures, manages and reports on the conservation efforts of individual properties within the IHG family of brands. Through Green Engage, IHG has set a goal of reducing solid waste by 50 percent for each participating hotel. By recycling hotel soaps and bottled amenities with Clean the World, participating IHG properties will make significant progress in meeting this goal, while improving living conditions for communities in need.

“Through programs like Green Engage and this new partnership with Clean the World, IHG continues to address our sustainability priorities at the hotel level,” says Paul Snyder, vice president, Corporate Responsibility, IHG. “Our hotel owners and guests have made eco-awareness a priority in their lives, and we welcome that kind of social responsibility in all that we do and offer throughout our brand portfolio. This partnership is a great opportunity to leverage our scale to both reduce the impact on the environment and provide a benefit for global communities.”

Each day, 9,000 children around the world die from acute respiratory illness and diarrheal diseases that can be prevented by washing with bar soap. Clean the World has a mission to put soap in the hands of people who need it most to improve and promote hygiene and sanitary living conditions and to lessen the impact of disease.

“IHG brings its impressive and well-known portfolio of hotels to our global hygiene revolution,” says Shawn Seipler, Co-founder and CEO at Clean the World. “By recognizing the value of amenities recycling, and encouraging individual IHG properties to join our partnership program, IHG displays tremendous corporate support for social responsibility and a concern for protecting our planet. As a leader in the global hospitality industry, IHG’s embrace of Clean the World will signal to its loyal guests that sustainability is a shared commitment and that every day is Earth Day when you stay at an IHG hotel.”

Clean the World recently achieved a major milestone with the global distribution of more than 10 million soap bars in just three years of operation. The soaps are often packaged as part of sustainable hygiene kits, which include recycled bottled amenities and other hygiene-related items collected from Clean the World hotel partners throughout North America. Recent distributions of soaps and hygiene kits have been made to communities in Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Nicaragua and Sierra Leone.

Classic Lodges, a carefully picked selection of properties, has appointed Richard Smith as Director of Marketing and Associates to enhance its growing marketing team ahead of the expansion of the group through both acquisitions and associate hotels.Richard has been with Classic Lodges for more than five years, joining as Group Sales and Marketing Manager, with responsibility for promoting the development of the five individual hotels within the Classic Lodges brand. During this time, the group has grown to eight, and Richard also had a hand in creating their first central reservations and conference team.

Having previously come from Best Western Hotels were he headed up its Agency Sales team, his experience will be vital in overseeing the Associate Hotels programme, offering independent hotels of similar size sales and marketing support from the Classic Lodges’ base in Chorley.

Richard is looking forward to taking the Classic Lodges Associate Hotels programme forward: “We have brought a number of hotels under the Classic Lodges umbrella and believe we can offer them significant help with their sales and marketing,” he says. “This is a very important element of my role going forward and the challenge I am looking forward to most.”

A Cumbria hotel which allows couples to live out their romantic fantasies is trying to cope with a booking frenzy after coming under the TV spotlights last week.

Aphrodite’s hotel near Windermere – owned by husband-and-wife team Will and Lyn Howarth – was seen by millions of viewers of the popular Channel Four series “Four in a Bed”.After the screening of the half-hour episode in which the hotel was featured, Will Howarth said that his website server and telephone lines “went almost into melt-down”.

With over £5000 worth of bookings taken on the first night, Will hopes that the knock-on effect will also benefit tourism generally by confirming Lakeland as the UK’s “capital of romance”.

Aphrodite’s, just outside Bowness on Longtail Hill, is a boutique hotel which provides 17 luxurious and theatrically themed bedrooms where couples can let their imaginations run wild.

Couples can spend their fantasy nights in surroundings conjuring up the world of James Bond, the Flintstones, Robin Hood or even Tarzan and Jane.

Other bedroom scenes include settings inspired by the romance of Paris, Tuscany, ancient Egypt, colonial America, and the Swiss Alps.

The “Four in a Bed” series looks at four couples owning hotels and guest houses as they visit each other’s establishments to stay the night and deliver judgement on their experiences.

Shown nightly over a single week, each episode focuses on one hotel – and when it came to Aphrodite’s turn, Will and Lyn were able to hear their rivals’ comments for the first time.

Despite one complaint from a mother and son that they weren’t allowed to share the same bedroom, the guests’ verdict on their experiences was an overwhelming thumbs-up.

According to Will, the idea of spending a fantasy night in Cumbria living as cavemen or as an Egyptian king and queen clearly whet the appetite of those watching the show:

“The phones starting ringing immediately the programme finished, and when we checked our website the following day, it had already received more than nine thousand hits!” said Will.

“In fact we quickly had to find a new server for the site as it was in danger of crashing with the volume of visitors trying to make on-line bookings.

“Our small-screen debut obviously hit the spot big-time for couples who want to spice up their lives with a little bit of make-believe and pampering!” he added.

Will and Lyn’s guests in the series owned establishments in Oxford, the Peak District and Wales – and were shown reacting with wide-eyed amazement at what they found at Aphrodite’s.

Cameras also saw them taking part in an aqua aerobics session in the hotel’s luxury pool, and enjoying an all-Cumbrian meal at the nearby Windermere Boutique Hotel.

That hotel has been owned by Will for over 20 years, and then ten years ago he was given the opportunity to buy another nearby business offering traditional B&B stays.

Sensing that the area was already well served by such accommodation, he began planning the hotel’s romantic renaissance, and named it after the Greek goddess of love.

“Our idea was that Aphrodite’s would inject a bit of real fun into visiting the Lake District – whilst still keeping quality standards high, and focussing on Cumbrian food,” said Will.

“The number of repeat visitors we get, some of whom are working their way around all our themed rooms, I think indicates that we all enjoy a bit of fantasy in our lives.

“We’re naturally delighted at the reaction to our television debut, and I hope it also sends out the message that Cumbria has a lot more variety than mountains and mint cake!” he added

Marriott International has announced the opening of the 340-room Renaissance Guiyang Hotel in China. The hotel is located in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, an emerging city for business and leisure activities in southwest China, and represents the 15th Renaissance property to open in the country.Renaissance Guiyang Hotel offers six dining and entertainment options that offer guests a variety of choices including local and international cuisine. New Dynasty is a classic Cantonese restaurant with 10 private dining rooms, while Bai Wei is a casual Chinese restaurant featuring renowned Sichuan and local dishes. BLD is a buffet-style restaurant which showcases cuisine from key cities around the world.

The Chocolate Cake Company is a comfortable café located in the hotel lobby, offering guests quick and delicious snack options. Finally, the hotel is home to two unique bars – the R Bar located in the lobby; and Vue, a roof top bar located on the 23rd floor offering spectacular views of Guiyang.

All 340 guest rooms inclusive of 19 spacious suites are equipped with wireless and High-Speed Internet Access (HSIA), iPod docking stations, flat screen TV’s, state-of-the-art technology and a full array of amenities.

With its 1,230 square meters of banquet space, including a 700-square meter grand ballroom, the hotel is proud to introduce the Renaissance Hotels “Intriguing Meetings” concept to the city by offering meeting planners a variety of amenities and Renaissance signature experiences including RLife LIVE, Renaissance Hotels hospitality entertainment program. The hotel also offers six function rooms and one VIP room, all equipped with state-of-the-art audio visual facilities.

Additional amenities at the hotel include a state of the art business centre, indoor pool and a 24-hour Fitness Center which is fully equipped with cardiovascular machines and Olympics weights. Wireless Internet connectivity is available in all public areas of the hotel.
Developed by Guizhou Zhongdian Hotel Management, Renaissance Guiyang Hotel represents another significant opening for the Renaissance Hotels brand in China, inland Chinese cities, which are widely regarded as an emerging force of economic development and leisure travel in the country.

UK

GBPEUR traded at a high of 1.2284 and a low of 1.2218. With no UK data out today we can expect a similar trading range today.GBPUSD hit a low of 1.6154 overnight, having hit an 8 month high of 1.6208 during yesterday morning. Price continues to hover above the key level at 1.6170 this morning, the trading range for the coming weeks is likely to remain between key support at 1.5880 and key resistance at 1.6300.

The UK Financial Services Authority Chairman Adair Turner will speak today and he is expected to suggest that the euro zone’s two bailout funds should be used to recapitalize the currency union’s stricken banks.

The UK public’s expectations for inflation in the coming year rose in April, presenting the Bank of England with an awkward policy dilemma for the recession-hit economy.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

Credit rating agency Standard and Poor’s downgraded Spanish credit ratings by two notches yesterday, saying that it expects further deterioration of the country’s public finances amid economic contraction and the need to support banks.

Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy commented yesterday that the country’s ability to fund itself is at risk and that budget cuts are necessary due to an unmanageable deficit, also have not helped matters.

Eurozone economic confidence declined notably in April, wiping out the gains logged in the first quarter. The data fell more than expected to 92.8 from a revised 94.5 in March.

The weaker than expected Eurozone economic confidence report helped the US dollar to rebound from a 3-week low versus the Euro posting a low of 1.3202. Although general feeling is of Euro strength now it has broken key resistance at 1.3236, the trading range for the coming sessions is expected to stay between key support at 1.3005 and key resistance at 1.3385.

Pending home sales in the US rose by much more than anticipated in the month of March. The index rose by 4.1% in March when expectations were for a modest 1.0%.

New claims for US unemployment benefits dipped slightly in the third week in April coming in at a seasonally adjusted level of 388,000.

Overnight, the Bank of Japan decided to add further monetary stimulus to the economy through enhanced purchases of the government bonds, stepping up its efforts to boost economic growth and fight deflation. The Central Bank’s policy board unanimously voted to increase the total size of its asset purchase program by JPY 5 trillion. GBPJPY jumped from 130.17 to 131.72 within minutes of the news being released and has since steadily traded back down towards 130, the pair is currently residing at 130.51.

The Swiss Institute for Business Cycle Research (KOF) leading indicator for April was released this morning at 0.40 having been expected at 0.26. After the data, the Swiss franc weakened against most major currencies, GBPCHF moved from 1.4695 up to 1.4772 after the news.

The Four Diamond Swissôtel Chicago has completed the $10 million renovation of its lobby/bar and classic meeting space. Construction began in December 2011. Inspired by the work of the building’s original architect, Harry Weese, Swissôtel Chicago’s renovated lobby has been transformed into a welcoming oasis for guests. The lobby now features a modern design with natural elements and an earth tone palette that reflect the hotel’s Swiss heritage. This natural feel is set off by attention grabbing splashes of colour, dramatic art, and lighting elements like the artistic rainstorm created by thousands of dangling glass bubble fixtures. Backlit glass panels, etched with Chicago’s skyline, sit just behind the check-in area. Projected just about the bar area, Swissôtel Chicago’s Swiss Circle, by award-winning artist Jork André Dieter, changes colour to reflect various moods throughout the day. This illuminated work features two rings of Chicago landmarks and historic elements like Solider Field and Cloud Gate, while the centre shows off Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan.

Located in the lobby, Amuse is the hotel’s latest food and beverage concept offering seasonal small and shareable plate options with signature cocktails and wine pairings for each. Amuse appeals to all five senses with its aromatic and flavourful menu, DJ-style music to fit the mood and seating in an artistic, eye-engaging setting.

Check-in pods replaced the traditional bulky hotel front desk, affording a more welcoming experience for the guest upon arrival. Front desk agents will now work from laptop computers, giving them the flexibility to interact with guests even when they are away from their pod. The concierge will be armed with tablets for quick access to all necessary information a guest may need to know, and a Nervana Ghost Wall will act as a digital concierge for guests to check weather, map local routes, and research area attractions.

Swissôtel Chicago will be the first property to provide meeting planners and attendees with Nervana’s Bonfire Events Management app. This application tracks schedules, flights, and presentations, connects guests via a social site and sends alerts for any changes in scheduling. Meeting planners can use this technology in the newly renovated classic meeting space that’s been transformed to mimic the modern, monochromatic feel of the hotel’s 38,000 square foot Event Centre that opened in 2009.

Guests, geese and gourmet food were all part of the recipe for success at the re-launch of Inglewood Manor, a luxury Edwardian Grade II listed property based in Ledsham, South Wirral.Local businesses mingled with the Cheshire set in the sunshine as they explored the hotel, which has undergone a £1/2 million investment. They were able to take a closer look at the 29 bedrooms and refreshed public areas.

There was even a visit from Cllr Angela Clayton, Mayor of Ellesmere Port, who was given a guided tour by Hotel Manager Fiona Creed.

The showcase event was hosted to give people a chance to see the hotel’s new look and to give businesses the opportunity to find out more about its outstanding conference facilities.

Guests were also invited to experience some of wide ranging activities that delegates can enjoy when using the hotel. Activities included; archery, falconry, chocolate making and even geese herding!

There was also an opportunity to sample delights from the hotel’s menu and the sunshine even came out in time for a BBQ on the terrace overlooking the hotel’s immaculately tended 38 acres of grounds.

Fiona Creed, General Manager of Inglewood Manor Hotel comments: 
“After so much hard work, it’s been fantastic to open our doors and showcase the new rooms to local people and businesses. In the redesign of the bedrooms, we’ve attempted to retain the uniqueness and charm that makes the hotel so special and it’s been fantastic that people have responded so positively. We’re looking forward to more guests now being able to enjoy the new rooms over the coming year.”

The new bedrooms

The team at Inglewood Manor worked closely with designers to create the new look for the bedrooms, to ensure they delivered luxury and comfort to guests, whilst retaining the intrinsic idiosyncrasy and individualism of the hotel.

The bedrooms have been decorated in a warm, traditional colour palate to create a contemporary elegance that has been accessorised with stylish furnishings, all selected to sit in harmony with the building’s traditional elegance.

Each room has been given its own point of difference to ensure that they all have unique flourishes to delight guests.

The guest experience has been further enhanced with the installation of luxury bathrooms fitted with power showers and Molton Brown toiletries. Each room has been fitted with flatscreen TVs, iPod docking-station and laptop safe.

UK

Yesterday Q1 GDP figures were released for the UK and showed that the economy contracted for the second month in row, meaning the UK has technically re-entered recession as many feared last year. The published figure of -0.2% came as a surprise considering the market was expecting growth of 0.1%The poor GDP data only put a temporary end to sterling’s recent rally, which has seen the pound trade at its strongest against the dollar since early September and a 20-month high against the euro. GBPUSD hit a low of 1.6084 after the release but recouped those losses to trade at 1.6142 by the end of the London session. GBPEUR briefly fell to a low of 1.2162 before ending the session over 1.22 again.

In response, Chancellor Osbourne said yesterday “The one thing that would make the situation even worse would be to abandon our credible plan and deliberately add more borrowing and even more debt”

UK industrial output held steady in April and price pressures weakened. The industrial output balance was +24 in April, the same as in March. The highest level since March 2011, when the balance stood at +27.

Figures released overnight from Nationwide show Consumer Confidence rose sharply to 53 in March from 44 in February to hit its highest level since June 2011.

In contrast, this morning data released by BBA has shown UK Mortgage Approvals fell to 31.9k from 33.1 last month. Despite the disappointing data, the pound remains at similar levels to yesterday’s pre-GDP release GBPUSD is at 1.6188 and GBPEUR sits at 1.2222.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

EURUSD climbed to fresh highs of 1.3236 during Wednesday’s session but retreated later on to trade at 1.3200 by the end of European trading.

The key release yesterday was FOMC interest rate decision and accompanying press statement. As expected interest rates remained on hold at 0.25%, but the Fed mentioned the economy has been expanding moderately, with the US labour market improving in recent months and household spending continuing to advance.

Despite improving conditions Fed Chairman Bernanke said officials see no rate increase before 2014.The US dollar weakened with GBPUSD hitting 1.6180 and EURUSD rising to 1.3229. QE3 will remain a possibility and this prospect is weighing heavy on the US dollar.

US Core Durable Goods orders dropped 4.2% in March, well below the 1.7% drop that was expected.

ECB President Mario Draghi yesterday welcomed latest IMF resources but warns governments must not become complacent and must continue with fiscal reforms. German Chancellor Merkel agreed with his call for structural reforms, but rejected stimulus spending to boost economic growth.

French presidential candidate Francois Hollande said yesterday that if he is elected in the May 6 election runoff, he will send other European Union leaders 4 proposals to amend the EU fiscal pact.

Germany’s economy is growing again and the government have said that expansion would accelerate this year. Predicting the economy will grow 0.7% this year and 1.6% next year.

In New Zealand, interest rates were kept on hold at 2.50%, noting that this level is appropriate for the time being. The central bank are said to be closely monitoring the situation and Governor Alan Bollard said the strong currency may lead to a policy reassessment in the future.

Marriott International’s global lifestyle hotel brand, Renaissance Hotels, has announced its plans to open a new 181-room Renaissance Hotel in Santiago, Chile, in 2013. The property will be operated by Administraciones y Operaciones Hoteleras Hotech S.A. under an agreement with Altamira Grupo Inmobiliario. The property is part of a larger complex which will also include a triple-A class office building.Situated on one of Santiago’s most prestigious avenues, Avenida Kennedy in the Vitacura district, Santiago’s upscale residential district, the Renaissance Santiago will be located across the street from the Mall Parque Arauco, which includes a number of high-end stores, a movie theatre, a bowling alley and great restaurants and nightlife.

In addition to the 181 guest rooms, the hotel will feature a three-meal-a-day restaurant affiliated to one of Chile’s most renowned chefs, a coffee bar and a terrace lounge. It will also feature four spacious meeting rooms, including a large ballroom; as well as an executive floor, a gift shop, fitness centre and swimming pool.

Renaissance Hotels is the flagship lifestyle brand for Marriott International where each property is unique and reflects the locale in which it resides. Renaissance Hotels are recognized around the world for always delivering a modern, sophisticated and authentic environment for travellers. The brand will open more than ten new hotels in 2012, and is currently represented in Latin America by the Renaissance Sao Paulo Hotel in Brazil.

Altamira Grupo Inmobiliario is a Chilean-based real estate development company specialized in high-end residential real estate projects. This will be Altamira’s first venture into the hotel Business alongside Marriott International.

Before we start to look at the nitty gritty of what happens inside the building, let’s for a moment consider how you are going to manage the process. After all you are not building a retail shed or a domestic block of flats, but a destination to which you hope people will come back to again and again. To achieve your goals in planning your hotel you need to be able to communicate and manage your development team. If you haven’t then we’d better look at some objectives for it and who should be in the team.The starting point is of course that you have done you market research as suggested in part 1. If you haven’t, stop reading this and do it now (Click here to read the article).

Let’s assume that you have progressed as outlined in pt 1. No doubt you have been impressed by some of the hotels you have seen, but equally you will be sure you can do better, so you are moving forward with confidence. You have the support of your bank, your accountant is enthusiastic and you know what star rating and price range you want to operate in. Now you need to find a designer who knows what they are doing and who should, if they are good, be able to save you their fee by knowing their way around the contract market (and no, not a purchasing agency).

I am not talking about the architect (good at the outside and at running a team, great on contracts and knowing everything -they say- but not an interiors specialist), or the builder, contractor, structural engineer, quantity surveyor, services engineer or kitchen specialist. I mean the person who understands the relationship of the internal parts of the hotel and how to make sure that they all contribute to the operational effectiveness and thereby the return to your bottom line.

Continued on page two…

UK

The UK has technically entered back into a recession after Preliminary GDP came in at -0.2% for Q1, continuing its decline from the fourth quarter where the economy shrank -0.3%. As a direct result GBPEUR dropped from 1.2217 to 1.2180, GBPUSD also fell from 1.6140 to 1.6089.UK public sector borrowing was higher than expected in March, but still met the government’s target for the fiscal year as a whole after borrowing for the previous month was revised down. March’s public finance figures suggest that the trend in the UK’s fiscal position continues to worsen.

GBPEUR traded as high as 1.2276 but sharply declined in the afternoons trading after Germany’s Finance Minister MR Schaeuble defended Germany’s austerity policy. The market slumped to a session low of 1.2214, the markets opened this morning around this level.

GBPUSD dropped off yesterday on the back of US house prices data, the market touched 1.6162 and traded as low as 1.6109, this morning markets opened around 1.6150. The near term support levels for sterling are now well above 1.60, currently at 1.6030 and 1.6075, this should provide sterling the platform to build and test the October high of 1.6165 again.
________________________________________

WORLDWIDE

US home prices continued to fall at the start of the year, pushing Standard & Poor’s Case-Shiller home-price indexes down to new post-crisis lows in February. The index fell 0.8% in February from January.

Sales of new homes in the US also slipped to -7.1% in March after February’s figures were much stronger than first reported, showing that the long-struggling housing market continues its uneven recovery.

US Consumer Confidence decreases to 69.2 in April from 69.5 in March.

The Fed will repeat in a statement today that subdued inflation and economic slack will result in exceptionally low interest rates through at least late 2014. The Fed will also release policy makers’ forecasts for growth, unemployment, inflation and the appropriate path of the federal funds rate over the next several years.

EURUSD is currently trading around the 1.3210 level this morning, it touched a high of 1.3217 yesterday and a low of 1.3146.

Greece’s central bank governor warned Tuesday that the country’s future inside the euro zone could again be placed in doubt if the next Greek government fails to implement the reforms the country has promised its international creditors.

Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble speaking yesterday afternoon defended Germany’s austerity policy against criticism from abroad, saying it was the way to generate sustainable growth. “The situation in Germany is that if you reduce the deficit, consequently you strengthen growth forces,” said Schaeuble.

Irish business activity showed its strongest improvement in more than four years, but recovery for the troubled economy will take some time to take hold.

Data released from Canada yesterday showed retail sales declined unexpectedly in February for the first time since July 2011, dragged by the sharpest drop in sales of new cars in seven months.

Milan is a great city hosting a great fair. But is it too big to be worth a visit? Magazines send teams to cover the show, but even reporters say they couldn’t get into the parties because they were “rammed”. As for stands, the fairground boasts over 2,500 whilst there are another 500 formal and informal showcases in the city itself. However big your team how can one do other than pick products randomly from this number of stands? Web searches are surely a better way of researching than spending a week toiling around these great sheds The fair is the size of anything at the NEC plus Sleep plus Decorex all rolled into one (but being Italian at least the showground is designed with a great deal more flair than the NEC).

The view of many in the exhibitions industry is that the future lies with these mega shows but I wonder, do they really serve the design industry? Are they too big to be worthwhile?
Milan has 24 halls, pairs of halls labelled for various types of exhibitors – Kitchens, Bathrooms etc.. This at least narrows the number of halls an individual needs to look at. But there is no real differentiation between contract and domestic suppliers so finding relevant exhibitors is difficult. There is a moving walkway along the centre of the fairground, but it is nearly 2 kilometres long. The underground rail service arrives at an entrance so far from the press point that a bus is necessary to get to the relevant entrance. The publications list is so long that the press office gives out rucksacks to visiting press – bright red so that they become easily identifiable to exhibitors.

The fair itself is an endurance event. In the bathroom section alone there are over 170 exhibitors. Few show the innovation of Laufen, and some show downright bad design, even dangerous pieces in the context of an area where soap, water and nakedness are always going to make for an environment where hazard needs to be designed out. Just before I came to Milan I heard a BBC discussion in which an eminent designer said that recently if a designer started talking functionality in the cerebral world of high design he was sneered at as ‘trade’. Milan supported that thesis with design for dramatic impact overcoming any idea of functionality on so many stands. Whatever happened to form following function?

Continued on page two…

UK
In early trading yesterday USD held firm against GBP’s rise above 1.61; however, following talks by MP member Fisher, GBPUSD moved back to a high of 1.6134 and has since this morning traded up to the resistance at 1.6150. The upside target to close above is still 1.6165.
GBPEUR began the day at 1.2214 before sterling gained to 1.2271 at 4pm as the market digested economic information released from the Eurozone. Markets this morning have opened around 1.2255.
The FTSE lost 2% following worries within the Eurozone and investor flight to the safety of German bonds.

The level of mortgage lending to first time buyers has risen by 30% from February. Lending ending rose to £13.4bn from £10.3bn in February, and from £11.4bn a year ago.

The BoEs quarterly report shows an increase in cost of borrowing for businesses. These costs are broadly linked to an increased risk of default, and higher wholesale funding tariffs.

UK public sector net borrowing was expected to have increased to £15.0bn from February’s figure of £9.9bn. The actual figure was over £15.8bn.
________________________________________

Worldwide
French, German and Dutch governments face a backlash for their austerity measures. The Stoxx Europe 600 index sank 2.3% on disappointing European data.

The composite output index of French Business shows a shrinking of output to 46.8 in April from 48.7 in March. Markit Economics suggest that that this drop was led by a slump in the French services sector

The ECB has said there is no chance of the issuance of joint obligation Euro Bonds because Germany would not support it.

Credit rating agency Moodys have warned Holland that the collapse of their current government would threaten their AAA credit rating.

In the absence of any notable USD data yesterday, EURUSD traded between a closer range of only 42 points between the high and the low of the European trading session. Trading from 1.3143 and 1.3101 and closing the session at 1.3131 yesterday. EURUSD has opened significantly higher this morning and already tested resistance levels at 1.3181.

German exports rose 2% in Q1 whilst imports declined. This leads to expectations of a trade surplus. The Deutsche Bundesbank says that whilst the economy is in good health, it lacks momentum.

According to ANZ analysts, it is now certain that the Royal Bank Australia will cut interest rates. Following a 0.1% rise in CPI and core inflation the question now is whether the RBA will cut by 50 basis points immediately or strategically cut by 25 this month and 25 next.

AUD lost 2 cent overnight. GBP has risen from a price of 1.5537 at the start of the week and peaked overnight at 1.5694.

25th April is a bank holiday in both for NZD and AUD

Hotel Indigo is pleased to announce the grand opening of the Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar. Following a multimillion-dollar renovation and rebranding, the 94-room hotel in downtown Del Mar offers guests sophisticated lodging with modern furnishings and a contemporary style, exuding the charm of the Del Mar community.Located at 710 Camino Del Mar, the property boasts a full-service day-spa, two pools, hot tub, sauna and bistro-style restaurant with a full bar, among other amenities. Upgraded guest rooms feature a fresh look with new furniture, luxurious linens, warm colours, tiled bathrooms, granite countertops and spa showers. Guests will feel in harmony with the Del Mar surroundings as each room features indigenous murals depicting elements from the Del Mar Racetrack and local beaches. Additionally, two ocean-view terraces, created by local design firm Design Line Interiors, allow guests to enjoy the temperate Southern California weather, with fire pits available for cooler evenings.

The Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar was the site of the original Stratford Inn, built in 1910. The upgraded décor reflects the Del Mar neighbourhood—from the Del Mar Racetrack and Fairgrounds, to the breathtakingly beautiful beaches. The Del Mar Plaza, a shopping centre with more than 30 shops and boutiques, offers the best of the area’s apparel, collectibles, fine jewellery, artwork and home décor. Other nearby attractions includes Legoland, SeaWorld, Birch Aquarium, San Diego Botanic Garden, San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park. At the surrounding beaches, guests can enjoy recreational activities, including surfing, boating, swimming and jet skiing.

Continued on page two…

UK
GBPEUR posted a high of 1.2247 during Friday’s session. The pair traded at a low of 1.2192 before the better than expected UK Retail Sales data at 9.30am, sterling then strengthened in the afternoon on Friday and has since reopened today above the 1.22 levels. UK
GBPEUR posted a high of 1.2247 during Friday’s session. The pair traded at a low of 1.2192 before the better than expected UK Retail Sales data at 9.30am, sterling then strengthened in the afternoon on Friday and has since reopened today above the 1.22 levels.

GBPUSD traded around the 1.6050 until the release of the Retail Sales, sterling proceeded to gain throughout the day and posted a high of 1.6149, and has fallen back below1.61 this morning. Again, the key level for GBPUSD to break now is 1.6165 for further upside potential, until such time we could see this pair remain range bound between the strong support at 1.60 and the resistance at 1.6165.

Focus this week for the UK is the release of the Preliminary GDP figures for Q1, being released on Wednesday morning at 9.30am. Expected to post a 0.1% growth from last quarter’s -0.3%. If we post another negative we are technically in a recession.
________________________________________
Worldwide
During Friday’s session EURUSD initially posted a low of 1.3127 and rallied throughout the day echoing GBPUSD movement to eventually post a high of 1.3227. However the pair has since fallen and currently resides around the 1.3150 levels finding support around 1.3130.

According to the National Association for Business Economics’ April survey released today, companies are growing more upbeat about the US economy this year and plan to take on more workers as demand improves. 78% of businesses, the most in a year, project the economy will expand more than 2% in 2012. This is up from 65% in the January report.
The US has several high tier data releases this week with Consumer Confidence, New Home Sales and Unemployment Claims all due out. However the two releases of particular note are the FOMC rate statement and press conference Wednesday evening and the Advanced GDP reading on Friday expected at 2.6% from a previous 3.0%.

Results from the first round of French elections yesterday showed that Francois Hollande won 28.6% of the vote against 27.1% for Sarkozy. Hollande’s victory may mean a collapse of the strong cooperation seen previously between Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The second ballot takes place on May 6th. French bond yields climbed last week, reflecting investor concern that Hollande may relax the nation’s deficit-tackling policy if he takes office.

As global finance chiefs talks ended yesterday in Washington, European Central Bank President Mario Draghi argued the ECB have done enough to stem the debt crisis by cutting interest rates and issuing more long-term bank loans.

The International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde secured $430bn in pledges for the IMF. The meetings ended yesterday in Washington with a doubling of its war chest but worryingly also exposed a number of conflicts among its 188 members. Lagarde fell short of her original $600bn goal as the US declined to chip in, while Canada proposed making it harder for Europe to tap aid.

Eurozone Manufacturing PMI was released this morning at 46.0, forecast was for 48. This figure represents a 5 month low. Eurozone services PMI also fell below forecast of 49.4, posting 47.9.

German Manufacturing PMI fell significantly in April, down to 46.3 from 49.0 in March. This reading was the lowest seen since July 2009. The Services sector remained upbeat in April though, posting 52.6 from 52.1 in March.

AUD weakened after Producer Price Index unexpectedly fell last quarter, adding to expectations the Reserve Bank will cut interest rates.

The preliminary HSBC China Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index, a gauge of nationwide manufacturing activity, rose to a two-month high of 49.1 in April compared with a final reading of 48.3 in March.

Camps Bay has golden sand and palm trees, a blue ocean and sun. The front is lined with busy cafés and I am told (by my mid-20’s nephews) quite a night life when I’m asleep. I’m a bit of an antique now, so driving along the front, as I do many days whilst I am in Cape Town, it seems to me to have the flavour of La Rambla in Barcelona or the Golden Mile in Blackpool but without the chips shops, ‘kiss me quick’ sombreros and candy floss. Whilst Cape Town’s V&A waterfront is the tourist centre, Camps Bay is the place for Cape Town’s cool set when they are not in Hout Bay.Standing back slightly from the main drag stands POD. It is terribly discreet, with no external signage to speak of except for miniscule lettering on the entrance to its underground secure car park. POD? The initials of the owner Paul O’Donnell, not the construction methodology. Designed by Greg Wright Architects it is an essay in stylish modernism.

The location gives the hotel views across the Camps Bay beach to the ocean – almost two oceans as not far from here the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean. Unfortunately this is the colder Atlantic, but with sunshine and high temperatures the hotel has pools to cool off in as well as the beach. Most of the 15 rooms have balconies, the larger rooms on the ground floor having private plunge pools as well as all having access to the bar and pool.

The Waldorf Hilton, London has just completed an £800,000 refurbishment of the Adelphi Suite function room. The revamp of Adelphi is part of a larger, multi-million pound refurbishment project undertaken to continue the hotel’s 1920s character and style. Steeped in history, the large marble columns in the Adelphi Suite, as with many other features of the hotel, are now listed, prohibiting any renovation, however, the rest of the suite has been given a new ‘champagne elegance’ colour palette. A timeless, elegant setting has been created and the art deco influence extends through to the furnishing and fittings.

The suite boasts stunning bespoke three-tiered chandeliers with polished brass rings and 1920’s flute glass shades; the original wall lights have also been restored (all restoration by Dernier & Hamlyn of course) with fluted glass shades to match. Fan designs, popular in the 1920s, appear in the design of the carpet and are also reflected in the curtain trim.

Floor to ceiling, fully opening acoustic partitions have been installed to give the room the flexibility of three separate event spaces. In addition to re-upholstered furnishings, the new suite also benefits from a state-of-the art full architectural lighting and AV system, ideal for conferences and events.

Peter Beckwith, General Manager, The Waldorf Hilton, London said, “The Adelphi Suite marks the start of the 2012 refurbishment plan and continued efforts to provide a high quality, unique setting for all of our guests.

“The hotel has beautiful architecture and with this in mind, we have endeavoured to recreate the sophistication and style celebrated in the 1920s, which we feel reflects the elegance of the building.”

The Adelphi Suite has a capacity of 450 and is the ideal location for corporate events, weddings and private receptions.

The refurbishment of The Adelphi Suite follows in the footsteps of the acclaimed Good Godfrey’s Bar and Lounge refurbishment, which was completed in 2011, and is now one of the most talked about cocktail bars in London.

Opened in 1908, pre-dating Selfridges, The BBC, The V&A and The Museum of London, The Waldorf Hilton exemplifies great English grandeur. Fox Linton, the interior designer tasked with refurbishing the Adelphi Suite, drew upon the hotel’s rich history and 1920’s glamour as inspiration to reflect the style and elegance of the building’s architecture.

Apartment 58 has now opened its doors offering a new global concept and accessible work/socialising space for the creative industry. Apartment 58 aims to offer a high-tech home from home where members can access and use the apartment for both work and play. The Soho apartment can be found at 58 Poland St with an Apartment 58 in Notting Hill ready shortly after this summer. East London is the next stop with all 3 London apartments alive and kicking before 2013, and plans already underway to open 3 apartments in each major fashion capital by 2015.The concept is simple: intimate apartment and bar spaces with understated design and personal access available for members who can use the space to work, hold meetings, host events or simply socialise with some friends over a cocktail. The brainchild of Alan Grant, founder of Notting Hill Arts Club and Cherry Jam, Apartment 58 will have a strong focus on technology – a paperless haven for those that are green. ‘We want to make creative hub for the next generation, to relate to those working in fashion, film, music or design who perhaps don’t have their own studios just yet but still want a beautiful space to work in. Apartment 58 will help the industry day to day; our members can let themselves in with their own key, access the Cloud to work off an Ipad or Mac, host sample sales or launches and even pick up their mail.’

Grant and his management team of ‘Landlords’ have approached an advisory committee of ‘Tenants,’ made up of industry influencers and creatives. These ‘Tenants’ are responsible for the selection of the ‘Friends’ of the apartment and will invite their network to visit Apartment 58 and become members. Once signed up all ‘Friends’ will receive a ‘Friendship Card’ a premium benefits lifestyle card, which is both a key to each apartment as well as a global credit charge card; the preferred currency in Apartment 58. ‘Friends’ will also be privy to an enthralling programme and events calendar, enabling access to new products and exclusive services.

Mia Wallenius, who currently works for Klaus Haapaniemi as Art Director, Designer and Producer, has been appointed chief of the simple and clean interior design. The design concept of Apartment 58 is to make the space feel like a home, with a collection of vintage mid-century classic furniture and objects that have been lovingly collected over time to give the space a lived-in feel. Here the colour scheme is muted yet cosy with deep purples, chocolate browns, and burning ambers mixed will light blues and greys. Key design features include bespoke wallpapers and soft furnishings by Klaus Haapaniemi, a grand table and bespoke seating which is perfect for both meetings and dinner parties. Apartment 58 will curate and showcase work by emerging designers and artists, giving them a natural platform to be seen.

Apartment 58 offers a space to socialise as well as work, and the team have trained among some of the best in exceptional hospitality and service. Food and drink will be a strong focus in all venues, and whether ‘Friends’ wish to have a long lunch or host an intimate dinner, Apartment 58 has a local gourmet delivery service on hand. This service offers a menu cherry-picked from the best restaurants and cafes in Soho, which is then hand delivered to the apartment – just like take away in your own home. The bar team will provide an encyclopaedic knowledge of drinks, creativity and standard of service. Drawing on an extensive experience and skills from the guys who put together The Light Bar at St Martins Lane and Purple Bar at the Sanderson, Apartment 58 bar will be welcoming, warm and will make you feel fully at home.

Comprised of like-minded individuals who share the same passion for creativity, Apartment 58 is set to become a global institution for the next generation of artistic leaders.

The ownership group, Doloma Investments of North Brunswick, NJ has recently announced the opening of the brand new Staybridge Suites located on 2195, US Highway 1 South, North Brunswick NJ. The hotel is operated by Global Vision Hotels of Boston, MA. The Staybridge Suites North Brunswick NJ will extend the best service and value in the area.The Staybridge suites, North Brunswick will feature 84 brand new apartment style studio, one bedroom and two bedroom suites. Each suite is equipped with a full kitchen with microwave, stove-top, dishwasher and full size refrigerator making it perfect for guests staying more than a few nights. The suites also feature a work desk with multiple outlets, free high speed wired and wireless Internet access, flat screen TV’s and DVD player.

Additional features include outdoor BBQ pavilion, indoor pool and fitness centre, a 24 hour convenience store, expansive great room with a fireplace and large flat screen TV. The complimentary amenities are free high-speed wireless Internet access, hot buffet breakfast and the legendary Social Evening Reception. The hotel also offers a shuttle service to transport in-house guests to their work place or to local restaurants and attractions within a 5 mile radius.

UK

GBPEUR reached a 19-month high of 1.2250 and traded above the 1.22 level throughout the session on speculation the Bank of England will pause its stimulus program next month. The mid-range resistance at 1.2235 was broken yesterday, so a test of the next level at 1.2285 could come during today\’s session.
GBPUSD followed suit and hit a 5-month high of 1.6076 and traded above the psychological 1.60 level throughout the session. After successfully breaking the resistance at 1.6070, gains may be capped around the 1.6150 level and sterling has strong support now at 1.60, so the pair may be rangebound during the coming session.

Following on from Wednesday’s gains against the AUD sterling hit a fresh high of 1.5565 yesterday, the highest level seen since Dec 21st 2011.

This morning UK Retail Sales YoY for March came in at 3.3% against forecast of 1.3%. This much better than expected data has caused GBPUSD to rally 30 points to 1.6121.
________________________________________

Worldwide

Consumer confidence in the Eurozone fell in April to -19.8 as fears that the region has re-entered recession in the first quarter of the year grow.

US Existing home sales fell in March for the second-straight month, a sign that the housing market\’s long-awaited recovery may be flagging. US unemployment rose to its highest level since January and the Philadelphia Fed said its index of general business activity within the factory sector fell to 8.5 in April from 12.5 in March. However, the index of leading economic indicators in March posted the sixth increase in a row suggesting continued economic momentum.

EURUSD opened trading at 1.3134 yesterday and tested the support levels around 1.3074 before the Spanish and French bond auctions began. After the 2pm release of US data, EURUSD went on to a high of 1.3151 and is still trading around that level this morning. The next technical level to break at close is 1.3070 for any more downside trends.

During yesterday\’s critical bond auctions, Spain sold €2.54bn in 2 and 10 year bonds, slightly more than the target of €2.5bn. France sold €8bn in debt as risks linked to the French presidential election drove up yields.

German PPI came in better than expected this morning. Unlike some of the Eurozone countries which are currently struggling, Germany are expected to post growth figures of 0.9% for 2012, an increase from the previous published figure of a fall of 0.8%, with GDP expected to increase by 2%.

Japan reported the fastest export growth in a year the figure which was boosted by car exports to the US and a smaller-than-expected trade deficit, aiding prospects of a sustained recovery in the world’s third-biggest economy.

The yen weakened against all 16 of its most traded peers as Bank of Japan officials signalled they’ll keep acting to depreciate the currency. Japanese policy makers will meet on April 27 amid speculation they will expand the BoJ asset-purchase fund for the second time in three months.

A new chapter begins at the Sofitel Plaza Hanoi on West Lake as the five-star hotel has officially opened the doors on its refreshed rooms and spaces in a glamorous re-launch party on April 12.

The culmination of three stages of renovations, the unveiling marks the hotel’s most significant overhaul since its grand opening in 2001. A who’s who of Hanoi’s notables, celebrities and media gathered for the re-opening, featuring a groundbreaking fashion show by luxury French brand, Kenzo.Extensive upgrades throughout the 317-room property include a full renewal of the hotel’s Plaza Ballroom, luxury accommodation, and business facilities, as well as inside-out makeovers of its flagship Chinese restaurant and rooftop bar.

With a prime address on tree-lined Thanh Nien Boulevard overlooking two legendary lakes and the meandering curves of the Red River, the hotel’s new design fuses Hanoi’s two cultural traditions in a mix of contemporary French elegance and Vietnamese charm.

Polished marble floors, dark wood furniture, Oriental décor and exquisite lighting set the tone for a new oasis of luxury in the centre of a capital that is rapidly reinventing itself as the next regional hub.

Hanoi’s two Sofitel properties are the only five-star hotels in the city that have undergone a thorough refitting of their facilities within the past three years. The Sofitel Plaza Hanoi called on architect Victor Loh of renowned Singaporean firm DP Design to mastermind its redesign.

LUX LIVING
The hotel’s most sought-after room category, the Luxury Club Rooms, were completely remodeled to evoke a more open, spacious setting with transparent bathroom doors, a lattice wood divider, and built-in cabinet; while all-glass windows deliver spectacular views of the sprawling capital below.

A single Vietnamese artifact now serves as a point of interest in the doorway entrance, and the bathroom is virtually aglow in new lighting and polished marble. Sofitel’s MyBed setting anchors the room’s soothing palette of earth tones, pale yellow and vibrant purple accents.

Larger minibars, a built-in connectivity hub, a 37-inch LCD flat-screen television and complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access make up the room’s technological upgrades.

Those staying in the hotel’s Luxury Club Rooms on the 15th to 18th floors have access to the privileges of the Club Sofitel. The hotel transformed its 17th floor business and social venue with fresh furnishings and tropical touches, and installed two new iMacs for guest use.

RESTAURANTS
Closer to the ground, a sleek reinterpretation of Oriental décor has taken over the hotel’s popular Chinese fine-dining venue Ming Restaurant.

Silver detailing on the backs of the restaurant’s ivory-toned seats, a line of potted bonsai and a charming tea lounge evidence the restaurant’s Cantonese roots.

New additions to the venue include two open kitchens where fresh noodles and more than 100 versions of handmade Dim Sum are prepared in view of diners; as well as three VIP rooms with views of the street, where large and small parties can dine in privacy.

A CROWN JEWEL
Perched 20 floors above the city, the lofty Summit Lounge was re-imagined with the allure of a penthouse.

The lounge’s all-new outdoor wooden deck beckons visitors with an invigorating breeze and mesmerizing views of Hanoi skyline. At night, the luminous vista permeates the indoor lounge area through wrap-around glass walls.

Completely redone with an illuminated arched ceiling, lush sofas, a lengthy bar and dedicated DJ booth, the lounge’s deep purples, blues and reds set the mood for a night of relaxation. Waitresses in French maid outfits and bartenders in stylish suits complement the bar’s novel concept.

Celebrity chef Will Meyrick of Jimmy Lik’s fame took part in the lounge’s rejuvenation by creating a trendsetting menu of culinary cocktails and upscale Asian hawker fare.

MEETING ROOMS
On the second floor facing leafy Pho Duc Chinh, the Zen-inspired Business Centre was rebuilt in a new location connecting the Plaza Ballroom to the Hoi An Room, one of the hotel’s nine meeting venues.

The hotel’s capacious 420-square-metre ballroom was redecorated with leather-covered walls, a sunset-hued carpet and enormous sparkling chandeliers.

On the ground floor, an all-new space, the Library, holds a six-person board table, sofa setting and 50-inch television. Splashes of magenta and framed photographs by photographer Tim Walker make the Library an inspiring setting to talk business.

The enhanced guest experience at the Sofitel Plaza Hanoi does not stop with its hardware. As part of its repositioning, the hotel carried out a fresh round of service training for all levels of its staff, with emphasis on developing Vietnamese employees to play greater roles in the hotel industry.

GM Antoine Lhuguenot, who was part of the renovation project in its early stages, returned to Hanoi in Feb. 2012 to usher in the hotel’s re-launch.

Bank of England policy makers decided against further QE last month and acknowledged that official data may show that the UK economy entered recession in the first quarter. The MPC voted 8-1 to leave QE unchanged, with Adam Posen, previously the arch-dove of the committee making a surprise switch.

Claimant count data also surprised markets yesterday, the number of people claiming benefit rose by only 3.6k from a forecasted 6.6k. These surprise events triggered significant sterling strength across most major pairs.

Sterling peaked at 1.2232 against euro, the highest rate since August 30th 2010. The pair closed at 1.2217, well above the key 1.2150 level, a much anticipated event which could lead on to further gains. The topside target now appears to be 1.2285 with 1.2235 proving to be a mid range resistance.

GBPUSD responded similarly and touched a high of 1.6042 from a low of 1.5895 for the day, trading upwards overnight to around 1.6065 this morning. The recent break back above 1.60 now opens the door for fresh upside towards the October peak of 1.6150. However, additional gains beyond 1.6150 should prove hard to come by, once again there are risks for a reversal back down towards key support at 1.5800.

GBPAUD also gained significantly and achieved the 2-week high of 1.5473.

GBPJPY traded at a session high of 130.445 back above 130, a significant position prior to possible further intervention from the Japanese Central Bank.
________________________________________

EURUSD began trading at 1.3104 and traded downwards to 1.3057 until 2.30pm, coinciding with the release of EIR Crude oil stocks which were twice the expected figure. EURUSD closed the session yesterday at 1.3120 and opening markets this morning with little change seen overnight.

This morning’s Spanish bond auctions will be of particular interest. The bill auction on Tuesday saw solid demand but the previous bond auction was disappointing. If the Spanish auction disappoints again, the euro could move to 1.30 EURUSD and 1.2285 GBPEUR.

The Eurozone’s current account swung from a surplus to a deficit of €1.3bn in February from a downwardly revised surplus of €3.7bn in January. European Construction output MoM for February fell dramatically to -7.1% from January’s -0.5%.

Finance leaders gather in Washington this week to discuss boosting resources for the International Monetary Fund, the German central bank is prepared to provide up to €41.5bn to the fund and will press leading non-European economies this week to match Europe’s firewall against its debt crisis.

The IMF raised its outlook for global economic growth to 3.5% for the year, but warned that while prospects have improved in recent months, Europe’s debt crisis and a potential oil price spike still threaten to destroy a fragile recovery.

MBA Mortgage Applications in the US improved from the previous -2.4% with 6.9%.

The Bank of Canada said the economy will be stronger this year than it earlier forecast as companies become more confident in US growth and as risks from Europe’s debt crisis diminish. The world’s 10th largest economy will expand 2.4% in 2012, up from a January projection of 2%, the central bank said today.

National Australia Bank’s Business Confidence was released this morning at -1, falling for the first 3 months of 2012.

To trade or for any other enquiry, please contact me on +44 (0)20 3005 8911.
Jamie Lesinski
Senior Dealer

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced the opening of the completely renovated Crowne Plaza Danbury, formerly the Danbury Plaza Hotel. Located near numerous businesses and corporate offices in Danbury, Conn., just off Interstate 84 at 18 Old Ridgebury Road, the five-story, 242-room hotel offers first-class luxury accommodations; an urban and sophisticated design, using a mix of bright and muted colours that has transformed the hotel’s appearance; exceptional meeting facilities; and close proximity to leisure attractions.

For meeting and events, the hotel’s 26,000 square feet of meeting space has been completely remodelled. It includes 14 meeting rooms and three ballrooms, the largest of which can accommodate a banquet for up to 500 guests.

Among the major corporations with nearby locations are General Electric, Boehringer Ingelheim, Honeywell and Pitney Bowes. The Crowne Plaza is also just a short distance from Western Connecticut State University and Danbury Hospital. The hotel offers easy access to major airports in both Connecticut and New York.

New to the hotel is Jays, a sleek and exciting restaurant and lounge with urban sophistication. Serving upscale, casual American fare, the restaurant’s signature dish is the Jays’ Filet, with house-made steak sauce and truffle fries. Guests can also enjoy casual dining at the Fusion Café, which serves breakfast and lunch, and get a drink at Whisper’s Lounge.

Amenities at the Crowne Plaza include a fitness facility, full-service business centre and gift shop and an indoor, heated pool and outdoor tennis courts that will open this summer. Free wireless Internet service is available in guest rooms and public areas.

The Crowne Plaza Danbury is independently owned by Jesta Hospitality CT, LLC, and operated by JBHA Management under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

UK
Sterling traded within a tight range against the euro on Tuesday, posting a high of 1.2148 against a low of 1.2102 as the pair failed to break the resistance and support levels of 1.2149 on the upside and 1.21 on the downside.

GBPUSD traded within a 1 cent trading range on Tuesday, rallying from the lows of 1.5861 to post a high of 1.5969 on the release of the Consumer Price Index for the UK, which although showing a rise came out in line with expectations.

Bank of England policy maker Adam Posen told reporters after a speech in London last night that the quickening pace of price rises in March hasn’t changed his view that inflation in the UK is on a downward trend. “If core inflation doesn’t come down on a sustained basis–then we have to rethink” Adding, a single month’s data isn’t enough to change his view.

Market will pay particular attention to this morning’s release of the Bank of England’s meeting minutes from the interest rate meeting held earlier this month. Forecasts are that the voting pattern for interest rates will be 9-0 in favour of no movement, more significant will be the result of votes on quantitative easing. Worldwide
Reports on Tuesday showed German ZEW economic expectations increased slightly in April, despite expectations for a minor fall. The economic expectations index rose to 23.4 in April from March’s unrevised 22.3.

Consumer prices in the 17 countries that share the euro rose at a stronger pace in March than estimated earlier, final official data showed Tuesday posting a figure of 2.7% against a forecast 2.6%.

In the much awaited Spanish bond auction on Tuesday, Spain sold €3.18bn in 12 and 18 month bills and their 10-year yield prices fell back below the 6% rate to 5.9%.

EURUSD started trading around 1.3090 but rose to a day high 1.3172 after ZEW data and the successful Spanish bond auction boosted the euro.

The Washington based ‘International Monetary Fund’ raised its global growth forecast for the first time in more than a year, with the US boosting the outlook while recent improvements remain “very fragile.” According to their report the world economy will expand 3.5% this year, compared with a January projection of 3.3%.

The yen retreated from a six-week high versus the dollar of 80.84 after Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Kiyohiko Nishimura said the central bank is ready to implement additional easing if necessary, USDJPY rose to 81.38 as traders prepared for the intervention.

The Swiss Government may appoint Thomas Jordan as President of the Swiss National Bank as soon as today, filling the post left vacant by Philipp Hildebrand after the scandal involving his wife betting on CHF movements.

The US Department of Labor said it can’t promise journalists they will be able to transmit market-sensitive economic releases at exactly the same time under changes resulting from the first review of procedures in a decade. Under the current system, credentialed journalists in so- called lockups are given data in advance of their release to the public, allowing time to prepare stories, headlines and tables.
________________________________________

To trade or for any other enquiry, please contact me on +44 (0)20 3005 8911.
Jamie Lesinski
Senior Dealer

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is pleased to announce the opening of The Westin Xian, marking the entry of the Westin brand into the Shaanxi province of China and one of the four major ancient civilizations in the world, along with Athens, Cairo and Rome. A haven for rest and relaxation, The Westin Xian is located just steps away from the ancient city’s myriad cultural attractions, restaurants, and shops. The Westin Xian is the first Westin in the world and the first hotel in Xian to have its own museum, paying tribute to the ancient history of China with its exceptional collection of over 2,000 artifacts. As the city’s premier international five star hotel, The Westin Xian offers refined Chinese hospitality in a storied location, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing and renewing travel experience.Heavenly Accommodations
The Westin Xian features 329 rooms and 32 one- to two-bedroom apartments. Upon welcome, guests to The Westin Xian are immediately invited to relax and renew with a sensory-rich experience that evokes tranquility and retreat after the rigors of travel. The spacious accommodations are tastefully designed with soothing tones, and each features a flat screen LCD television, rainforest shower, extra-large closets, personal refreshment center, and Westin’s signature Heavenly bed to ensure guests enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Harmonious Modern Design
Designed by Neri & Hu Design, The Westin Xi’an property covers nearly 60 acres and is comprised of a 5-star hotel, adjacent museum, and shopping centre. Harmoniously fusing the indigenous culture with modern design, Westin Xi’an showcases a Tang dynasty architectural style. Measuring approximately 80,000 square meters, the main building features a covered porch and garden courtyard. Guests access cafes, restaurants, and other auxiliary facilities via this interior landscape. In alignment with the Westin’s wellness ethos, the hotel’s indoor/outdoor layout instills guests with the pleasure of being close to nature.

First Westin Hotel to Feature Its Own Museum
Guests are invited to explore their cultural sides at the Xian Qujiang Museum of Fine Arts at The Westin Xian. This is the first Westin in the world and the first hotel in Xian to have its own museum, paying tribute to the ancient history of China with its exceptional collection of over 2,000 artifacts.

Epicurean Adventures
The Westin Xian also offers a variety of epicurean dining experiences—Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Seasonal Tastes presents nourishing and imaginative menu creations using the freshest produce and ingredients. Zen5es specializes in innovative and traditional Cantonese dishes which are prepared and presented with passion and flair. At Mai, guests can immerse themselves in the culture and flavors of modern and contemporary Japanese cuisine. Located at street level, Mai is a hip favorite amongst hotel guests and locals alike. Daily Treats is ideal for a quick coffee and light bites such as a gourmet sandwich and Lobby Lounge is the place to relax and elevate your senses either day or night with a cocktail or hot Westin Jing Tea. Oversized windows provide views of the Great Wild Goose Pagoda while live music in the evenings creates a pleasant atmosphere.

Renew and revitalize
The Westin Xian invites guests to maintain their wellness routine while on the road with the WestinWORKOUT Gym and indoor swimming pool.

With more than 3,300 square meters of meeting space and three banquet spaces, The Westin Xian provides a new and exceptional destination for events. The flexible function space can be arranged in a variety of way to accommodate everything from 1,500 person cocktails to intimate dinners. Outdoors, an 1,860 square meter sunken garden with waterfall provides the perfect ambience for weddings or cocktail gatherings.

GBPEUR yesterday traded in a narrow range opening the day at 1.2159, reaching a high of 1.2176 before closing the day at the low 1.2135. This closing rate is significant as the level needed for further upside trends is a close above 1.2150.

Sterling advanced for a second day versus the Euro after an industry report showed asking prices for UK homes continue to rise, adding to signs Britain’s economy will outperform Europe’s.
GBPUSD saw a gradual rise through the day, opening at 1.5828 and closing the day at its high of 1.5888. The support and resistance target levels to break at close still remain at 1.5800 and 1.6065 respectively. The currency pair is trading in a range and this is expected to continue until tomorrows MPC meeting minutes are released.

Data released this morning shows that UK CPI YoY rose to 3.5% as expected, the first monthly rise since September last year. This reduces the likelihood of further QE in the near term and could mean the Bank of England may have to tighten monetary policy in future meetings.EURUSD dropped to a monthly low of 1.2994 yesterday, but began retracing during the afternoon to close the session at 1.3080. This morning the pair is trading back above 1.31. Analysts are looking for a close below 1.3000 to see the downward momentum gather pace.

Federal Reserve officials are grappling with how they might eventually exit from their plan to keep interest rates low through late 2014 without jolting markets.

Fed member Bullard stated yesterday that the US should hold monetary policy steady when it meets next week and continue to evaluate its options for the future.

US Core Retail Sales were released at 0.8%, after forecasts of just 0.3%. This is up on February and 6.1% higher than a year ago.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy Tuesday said in a radio interview yesterday that the weaker euro is good news as it boosts the competitiveness of European exporters.

Spanish 10-year bond yields jumped to 6.16% the highest level since December 1st.

Spain will sell 12 and 18 month bills today, followed by auctions of debt due in October 2014 and January 2022 on April 19th.

China’s yuan tumbled against the dollar as the central bank doubled the daily trading band, in one session USDCNY weakened 0.2% to 6.315.

AUD declined against 15 of its 16 major peers after minutes of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s last meeting signalled that the central bank is ready to cut interest rates if inflation eases. The minutes reaffirmed that the next rate reduction hinges on an April 24 report on first-quarter inflation. GBPAUD moved from 1.5280 at 3pm yesterday and is currently

Plans to build 201 apartments, a 170-bed hotel, and circa 500 sq m of mixed commercial space in Liverpool’s Baltic/Cornhill are being submitted to the city council later this month.Neptune Developments are submitting the planning application for the £45 million scheme which includes proposals for four buildings on the site. The first will contain 159 apartments and circa 200 square metres of leisure/ retail space; the second will contain 42 apartments; and the third and fourth will be outline applications for a 170 bed hotel and a building with uses which could include health, leisure, offices or residential units respectively.

The Baltic/Cornhill site is on Wapping, opposite the King’s Waterfront and near to the Liverpool One retail area. Plans by Windsor Developments to develop the site in 2006 were halted when developer went into liquidation and the site has been mothballed ever since.

Steve Parry, Neptune Developments Managing Director, said: “This is a key site in the heart of Liverpool and its proximity to the Liverpool Echo Arena and Conference Centre, Liverpool One, and of course our Mann Island scheme, make it a very attractive proposition.

“We are working closely with the city council and with local residents to ensure that our proposals are absolutely right for the area and we look forward to turning what is currently an eyesore into the final piece of the jigsaw for this vibrant area of Liverpool.”

Balfour Beatty has been brought on board as the contractor for the scheme which is being designed by Liverpool architect’s Falconer Chester Hall.

The plans also include the completion of the underground car park to create 330 spaces for residents, employees and other visitors, and the creation of a pavement café and other planting and landscaping work.

Subject to the planning process, Neptune hope to be on site as early as Summer this year.

SLIM – DINING, LOUNGE & POOLSIDE FURNITURE
The Slim collection of modern design outdoor furniture from Viteo is characterised by sleek profiles and a pure, minimal style. This look is the result of the choice of materials used; thin Corian is thermo-formed into ergonomic shapes and combined with a marine grade stainless steel frame, achieving a delicate, slim appearance. Matching cushions are available in a wide range of fabrics.PURE LOUNGE
Pure Lounge is a striking collection where linearity and comfort are perfectly combined. The use of various highest quality materials of different appearances creates luxurious furniture which can express everyone’s individuality. The collection is fundamentally pure in design; the basic modular elements are available in teak, concrete, Corian and white powder coated aluminium, with sumptuous cushions to match. The many combinations lend themselves to a host of different environments. With the addition of a fire table to the collection, a campfire-like atmosphere will turn Summer evenings into a memorable experience.

OUTDOOR KITCHEN
The Outdoor Kitchen from Viteo offers a new experience for outdoor cooking. The collection includes appliances such as a tepanyaki grill, wok burner, electric grill, gas hotplates and even a kitchen sink. New possibilities for cooking and entertaining outdoors are opened up, allowing you the pleasure of cooking more and more outside. High quality materials such as teak, stainless steel and Corian provide long-lasting performance, as do the Gaggenau electrical household appliances.

Continued on page two…

Lonrho and Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou’s easyGroup are delighted to announce the opening of their first hotel in Johannesburg for later this year. Branded as part of Sir Stelios’s “easyHotel” chain, the 120 room budget hotel will be created from the conversion of three floors of the classically designed landmark building, formerly Stuttafords department store. Work will start next month and the hotel is expected to receive guests in November 2012. Situated at the corner of Rissik and Pritchard Streets in the heart of Johannesburg’s Central Business District (“CBD), the no-frills but comfortable hotel occupies one of the most high profile locations in the country. Rissik Street neighbours retail stores Jet and Edgars as well as the Johannesburg High Court. The CBD is also home to many central and local government offices as well as the headquarters of several international mining companies.

The easyHotel.com Rissik Street is the first hotel under the exclusive 20 year master franchise agreement (“MFA”) that Lonrho enjoys with easyHotel.com. Together, easyHotel and Lonrho are committed to establishing an easyHotel network across Africa. The MFA provides Lonrho with the exclusive rights to the easyHotel.com brand in Africa and sets out an agreed opening schedule for fifty properties by 2016. Opening its first easyHotel at the heart of the Johannesburg, the commercial capital of South Africa, demonstrates Lonrho Budget Hotels’ corporate objective of operating hotels in Africa’s high demand, high growth destinations.

easyHotel will be the first trans-continental hotel brand in Africa specifically designed to be accessible to many, not a select few. easyHotel’s unique low-cost business model permits the customer to enjoy an international standard bedroom at a highly competitive price. The “easy” brand is one of the world’s most recognised and successful value for money brands and easyHotel.com Rissik Street will be built and operated to easyGroup’s exacting international standards, providing clean, safe and branded hotel accommodation for people travelling on business, leisure and visiting friends and family.

David Lenigas, Executive Chairman of Lonrho commented:
“This new hotel project between Sir Stelios and Lonrho starts the roll-out of easyHotels.com throughout Africa. easyHotel.com Rissik Street (a Lonrho Hotel) will be the first of many hotels designed to give Africans and visitors to Africa a first world hotel experience at a budget price starting from as low as US$29 per room per night. There is a large gap in the market for a quality budget hotel and the easyHotel.com room offering is ideally suited to fill this much needed gap across the Continent.

“Lonrho is already a significant brand name across Africa. We believe that combining it with the “easy” brand, which is well-known for highly successful budget operation, to create the Lonrho easyHotel.com chain will satisfy the growing demand from consumers across the Continent.”

Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Chairman of easyGroup commented:
“easyHotel is all about simple comfort and great value . So I’m delighted to bring our first African hotel to Johannesburg. The city has a wealth of attractions and events of interest to both leisure and business visitors, and this new easyHotel will allow them to enjoy the best of what Johannesburg has to offer – without the expense. I’m confident that easyHotel fans will soon be putting South Africa on their destinations wish list.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with David Lenigas and his team as we begin bringing quality, value-for-money services to Africa.”

AYANA Resort and Spa Bali has completed a renovation of over 200 hotel rooms and suites, resulting in a major upgrade to guest comfort, amenities and overall experience with stylish new interiors and brand new furniture and decor.Recently announced Asia’s Best Resort as voted by Conde Nast Traveler readers and Asia-Pacific’s Best Spa Resort by DestinAsian readers, there are no signs of complacency as AYANA continually invests to keep its facilities and services at the pinnacle of global hospitality standards.

The renovation has upgraded all categories of rooms in the Hotel, from standard rooms through to ocean suites and the privileged Club Floor. The design and style remains modern Balinese with canopied beds and furniture featuring intricate carvings by Balinese artisans, traditional textiles, beautiful artworks, plush sofas and cosy daybeds on balconies. Modern elements are evident in marble floors, chic lighting and bathrooms with rain showers.

The Club Floor, consisting of 71 Club Rooms and Suites, includes special benefits and privileges such as exclusive access to the Club Lounge, with complimentary Food & Beverage presentations all day. The new dinner menu features a different restaurant each night, allowing guests to enjoy a culinary journey of the resort’s seven dining venues. New iPads are also available for guest use loaded with practical and popular applications such as social networking and E-books.

Following the upgrade, the resort has launched a new Club Connections Package to provide Club-level guests with even more benefits, such as internet access in their rooms, sunset cocktails at Rock Bar, thalassotherapy at the Aquatonic Seawater Therapy Pool, cultural dinner and dance performance at Langit Theatre, and airport transfers.

The Rezidor Hotel Group announces the Radisson Blu Hotel Conakry in Guinea. The property featuring 249 rooms is scheduled to open in 2014. “We are proud to arrive in the Republic of Guinea, the 68th country where Rezidor is present”, said Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of Rezidor. Guinea is rich in minerals and other natural resources. Its mining sector and refinery industry are the driving forces behind the economic growth of this Western African country. The port and capital city of Conakry is the country’s trade hub and first stop for most international tourists visiting the country.

“Growth in the emerging markets of Africa has been a major focus for Rezidor in recent years. The signing of this property is in line with our asset smart strategy to develop Radisson Blu hotels in leading African capital cities. We now have 43 hotels and over 10,000 rooms in operation or under development across 17 countries in Africa”, continued Ritter.

Eissame Halabi-Ahma of Guinenne de Gestion Immobilière & Hotelière SA, owner of the mixed use development which includes the hotel, added: “We are very excited about joining forces with Rezidor. Unique projects like this one require a strong brand and an experienced and committed hotel operator. We are glad that we found both with Radisson Blu and Rezidor.”

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Conakry is situated next to the US embassy in an up-market business and residential precinct of Conakry that attracts many international companies and government administration offices. The new football stadium which will host the African Cup of Nations in 2014 will be located 2 kilometres from the site. Part of a mixed use development, the property sits on a cliff with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Besides 249 rooms with signature services such as free high speed internet access, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Conakry will feature several restaurants and bars, including an outdoor terrace and rooftop F&B outlet. The hotel will also offer about 1,580m2 of conference and meeting facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and spa. Serviced apartments are planned in the future on the site which the hotel will operate along with a casino which will be operated by a third party.

Alila Jakarta, one of Indonesia’s most innovative hotels for business travellers, has launched a new Executive Lounge, providing a chic, chill out zone for visitors staying in the Executive rooms, as well as Club and Alila Suites. In keeping with the contemporary, minimalist style of the design hotel, the new 7th floor lounge is a cool and relaxing retreat with modern interiors, ambient music and sweeping views over the city skyline.

Open from 6.30-10.30am, guests can enjoy an all-day grazing menu featuring Asian and Indonesian delicacies such as Sushi, Dim-Sum and Nasi Goreng, as well as sweet and savoury western dishes ranging from salads and cold cuts to pastries and fruit platters. An a la carte breakfast service is also available until 10.30am, featuring classic breakfast favourites such as Eggs Benedict as well as local specialities.

A free-flow of tea, coffee, juices and non-alcoholic beverages, including signature mocktails, are served throughout the day together with evening cocktails and canapés between 6-8pm. Complimentary Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines and Satellite TV are also available, with a dedicated concierge on hand to assist with check-in andattend to guest’s needs.

The launch of the Executive Lounge follows last year’s opening of Alila Jakarta’s five exclusive Club suites, some of the most spacious in the city, and the recent upgrading of the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool.

A business centre and 10 meeting rooms with capacity for up to 500 people are also available for business travellers. And for those looking to relax, the hotel’s Spa Alila is renowned in Jakarta for its natural, healing spa treatments, conceived and made on Bali.

Alila Jakarta is located in Central Jakarta, minutes away from the Central Business District, old Batavia and Kota areas and the central train station; only five kilometres from the largest exhibition and convention centre in Indonesia (JIEXPO) and 20 kilometres from the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Interior design firm Bilkey Llinas Design (BLD) have completed the interior design and fit-out of the Westin Nanjing, China. This property has become the premier address in the city and is the latest in an increasing 30-year portfolio for this award winning design team in China.The designers worked extremely closely with the operator Starwood who wanted a clean, fresh palette for its Westin brand. “The approach to the design was almost spa-like placing importance on the selections of natural finishes and generally creating a light and airy feeling about the whole place,” says Christopher Bennett, Senior Project Designer at BLD.

The architecture of the building was a test to overcome as the geometry of the floor spaces and encroaching internal structural elements made designing the 234 guestrooms and suites especially challenging with most of the rooms differing in shape and size. Having to incorporate Westin’s trademark Heavenly Bed and Bath also added to the complexity of fitting out the rooms.

In the case of the lobby, keeping a light and airy ambience was quite challenging because there were no windows at that end of the building. The lobby is on the 23rd floor with two distinct areas, the reception and the all-day-dining restaurant, Seasonal Tastes. Guests arrive by the elevator from the ground floor drop off and meeting reception at the lobby end and can walk through the lobby and through into the all-day-dining restaurant where the windows are situated on the far side.

The lack of natural light for the lobby was compensated by the effective and decorative use of lighting as well as the choice of material selection including light travertine marble to bring out the lightness and then using darker tones and spot lighting to draw attention to certain features such as the reception and the decorative elements behind the reception desk.

Continued on page two…

Hospitality design firm GETTYS have recently completed the interior design of the Sheraton Seoul D-Cube City Hotel in the Korean capitalʼs technology centre of Guro. The designers were commissioned by the Daesung Group to design the 269-key full-service hotel for the Daesung D-Cube City project. The development is a cultural, business and shopping hub for the area with a retail mall, theatre, restaurants and office space consisting of two residential high-rise buildings and a 41-storey office and hotel tower linked by an extensive park on the podium level.

The hotel was designed with symbolic inspiration and at times, playful references to the local culture. From the guestrooms to the major public areas, ideas and concepts that are familiar to residents of Seoul are reinterpreted into a contemporary language and find themselves on display throughout the hotel experience.

In addition to the stylistic elements, the designers made a conscious effort to integrate cultural meaning to the spaces with some whimsically alluding to a recognisable facet of Korean culture, whereas other concepts experienced a few layers of interpretation. The enjoyable aspect of this direction was that the owner sought ideas that were intrinsic to the local culture as well as the idea being consistent with the brandʼs direction.

Continued on page two…

HotelDesign’s Patrick Goff catches up with Ilke Hussein at Laufen’s stunning showroom within the Roca London Gallery in London’s Imperial Wharf. This was ahead of Milan’s Salone Del Mobile, where the manufacturer will celebrate a very special birthday and launch a raft of new products.This year’s Salone del Mobile marks a very special anniversary for Laufen, as the company celebrates 120 years in business. How have things changed during that time?

“Laufen was founded 120 years ago, as a pottery factory and took its name from the little Swiss town where it was originally based. During this time it has developed into the largest global manufacturer of bathroom ceramics.”

This is an interesting exhibition on the evolution of bathroom, here in the showroom, and certainly shows how products have developed.

” Since the industrial Revolution,when machines were first being introduced into the working environment, Laufen’s factories kept the character of traditional craftsmanship, despite its ceramics now being manufacturered in considerable quantities. The challenging shapes, surfaces, edges and sizes of our designer pieces are beyond the capabilities of even the most modern of machines so the human touch is still a very important part of our production, and sits comfortably alongside the most high tec of automated systems to ensure we can produce the quantities required to remain competitive.”

Continued on page two…

Those witty and inventive people at Sywawa have excelled themselves yet again with the delightful Dentelle, a parasol celebrating the tradition of Belgian lace making and the contemporary creative possibilities this brings to the outdoors.Despite its frivolous appearance, Dentelle offers serious shade being covered in Symacryl, a unique technical fabric that blocks 97% of all UV rays. Available in 18 base colours, and draped in either black or white lace this 190cm diameter parasol is the perfect solution for teatime on the terrace.

Dentelle joins the happy family of gorgeous parasols to be found in the new Shade element of www.moderngarden.co.uk

Marriott International has announced that the new Courtyard Mexico City Airport, connected to Benito Juarez International Airport is officially open for business as of the 2nd April. The new sleek and modern 288-room hotel is Mexico City’s first Courtyard by Marriott property and features the Refreshing Business lobby, providing travellers with free Wi-Fi and a great place to work or relax with a variety of flexible seating options. The lower lobby level, also known as the atrium, features a central large contemporary fountain and plenty of seating for socializing.Each of the 288 stylish and modern units, including 17 suites, offers free high-speed internet access, contemporary work space, digital alarm clocks with an iPod and iPad docking station, 32-inch LCD televisions with HD and premium channels and deluxe bedding.

Courtyard Mexico City is located in terminal one with an entry from the second floor of Hall G by a foot bridge. The hotel features five levels of guest rooms; valet parking; a central atrium with retail outlets; a mezzanine lobby level that includes a state of the art fitness centre; 3,992 sq. feet of meeting space as well as the traveller’s lounge, a rest area where travelling guests can shower and freshen up before check-in or after check-out.

Centro Bistro, Courtyard Marriott Mexico City Hotel’s premiere restaurant, offers a flavourful menu with local and international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Room service will also be available 24 hours a day as well as the Market for quick on-the-go meals.

Is the funding of universities to deliver design, innovation and prototyping to industry a good investment of public money?

British Design Innovation (BDI) unequivocally supports the government’s promotion of innovation and manufacturing. We believe it is an effective means of driving economic growth – after all, it’s what we ourselves were set up to do. And therein lies the rub.Over the past few years the government has invested many millions of pounds of public money in initiatives that fund some universities to offer subsidised or free design and innovation services, particularly to small and medium-sized businesses – and setting them up in unfair competition with our members.

BDI represents Industrial Design companies and individuals involved in commercial product, service and interaction development. Throughout the UK, BDI members help entrepreneurs, businesses, universities and public sector organisations to develop ideas. We create intellectual property and new technology in the design of innovative products and services.

Is funding a duplication of what Industrial Designers already do worthwhile?

We think not. With so many talented Industrial Design businesses already in existence (thanks to their massive investments in training and technology), it is surely unfair and anti-competitive to publicly fund new entrants. In most cases we find no evidence that funders properly consider the displacement impact of their interventions on the private sector or the local skills base. Most BDI member companies work without subsidy, and many are based in the most economically disadvantaged areas of the country. In these areas – and particularly in the Midlands and North of England – they report that the ability to grow has been stifled.

Do the organisations that engage in Higher Education Institution (HEI)-delivered schemes receive best practice support?

Not necessarily. BDI members report that these same institutions, although publicly funded to provide design services to SMEs, request academic staff internships – ironically to learn about the very professional design practice they are subsidised to offer. This lack of commercial experience reveals why so few university-based design and innovation centres survive once public funding runs out. If they were providing real value, surely the millions invested would give a competitive advantage (albeit an unfair one) in the open commercial market?

Has the government’s focus on funding HEIs become confused with support for business?

We think so. Many of our members believe that the relationship between some academic institutions and the bodies charged with supporting business has become too close. Furthermore, the failure of some HEIs to consider, or care about, the impact of their activities on design businesses has driven a wedge between parties that previously collaborated well. Endemic in all of this, the BDI board has observed, is the fact that public investment for innovation is provided by a bewildering array of sources.

Britain cannot afford to reinvent something it already has – there is, quite simply, no need to. There is not, and never has been, a need to publicly fund the setting-up or delivery of design, prototyping and innovation services in HEIs and other publicly-funded bodies.

What is BDI’s role in all this?

In all regions of the UK, talented people in small businesses have a track record of working with industry to develop new products and services, using the latest technology and employing best practice in innovation.

BDI members are well-connected and informed about innovation policy, and are actively engaged in advisory and implementation roles for publicly-funded design and innovation interventions. BDI has also taken positive steps toward creating better industry/academic relationships, by forming the University Design Industry Partnership (UDIP) to enhance collaboration between HEIs and the commercial design sector.

So what do we need to do now?

Surely we could all benefit from a more joined-up approach? Too much funding from too many sources cannot be the most effective way of engaging the most competent providers.

● BDI calls on the government and its agencies to support universities by concentrating on education – their core competence – to advance the teaching of design, thereby improving the career prospects of their graduates and enriching the economy.

● BDI calls on the HEIs to join BDI’s efforts to develop more productive collaboration between Industrial Design professionals and education by becoming involved with UDIP.

● BDI calls on industrial designers to become more involved, and be represented by BDI – the only national membership body focused on promoting and representing the Industrial Design profession.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) today announced it is creating nearly 3,000¹ new jobs across its 275 UK hotels over the next three years, including over 1,100² new jobs this year. IHG also announced the launch of its newest hospitality training Academy in London. The announcement was welcomed by the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who attended the launch of the IHG Academy programme at the soon to open Holiday Inn London Stratford City. The new hotel is one of four IHG hotels in the area that will be creating new jobs, for which students of the IHG Academy programme can apply.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said, “It’s fantastic to see IHG growing its UK business and creating 3,000 new jobs. The British service sector is world-beating, and will soon welcome millions of guests to enjoy London 2012. But reaching this gold standard needs investment in people. IHG are leading the way in their sector through a tailored academy programme. It’s an added investment that means young people can learn the skills for the industry in a local college, and then start their career in a local hotel. This shows real investment in our future workforce, is a huge boost for jobs across the country, but crucially will see local people benefit from training and work.”

Holiday Inn, part of the IHG family of brands, is the official hotel provider to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As part of its Olympic legacy, IHG has launched a new hospitality training academy in partnership with Newham College in one of the Games’ host boroughs.

With two new hotels to be built in time for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, successful students will be prize candidates for some of the 140 new jobs being created in the local area as the new hotels open.

IHG’s Chief Executive Richard Solomons joined Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and students at the soon to open Holiday Inn London Stratford City to launch the new Academy programme.

Richard Solomons, IHG’s Chief Executive said, “Hospitality is a great business to be in and working in hotels offers people exciting career paths for the future. We’re pleased to be working with our hotel owners to create jobs and training opportunities in the UK at this time. The IHG Academy programme allows us to join with local education bodies in the UK and around the world to provide real-life skills and enhance employment prospects for local people. IHG benefits by having access to talent from the neighbourhoods near our hotels.”

The IHG Academy programme in Newham was developed in partnership with Newham College and will provide talented local people with hospitality training and practical work experience at a hotel from the IHG family of brands. Students take a six-month tailored course that combines the best of the Hospitality Skills Diploma NVQ with four weeks practical work experience in a hotel. Students qualify with a Hospitality Level 2 Diploma and will have the opportunity to apply for jobs at entry level with IHG.

There are 42 IHG Academy programmes worldwide and 5,500 students were involved in the hospitality training globally last year.

¹ IHG is to create 2,992 new jobs in the UK over the next three years.
² IHG is to create 1,144 new jobs in the UK in 2012.

Kempinski Hotels has announced its re-entry into Latin America with the signing of a management contract for a new luxury resort in Colón Province, Panama. As part of its long-term growth strategy in key destinations, Kempinski now has an active pipeline in the Western Hemisphere, including projects in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Rio de Janeiro.The new property in Panama is under development by Two Oceans Group in a prime location on the coast of the temperate waters of the Caribbean Sea, near the town of Portobelo on the Northern Isthmus of Panama. Situated in a natural reserve, surrounded by rainforest, approximately an hour drive from Panama airport the beachside resort will feature 106 luxurious rooms and suites – all with ocean view. Furthermore 75 Kempinski Residences are planned from which 40 are directly located at the sea. The entire hotel complex will be built over several levels and connected by terraces. The heart of the resort is a plaza, where restaurants, boutiques and entertainment will be available. An extensive pool and spa area as well as watersport facilities will round up the offers. The beautiful beachside resort is scheduled to open in late 2015.

Reto Wittwer, President and CEO of Kempinski Hotels, is excited about the return of his company in the Latin American market: “After an absence of almost 15 years, now is the time to re-enter these growing markets. The region increasingly attracts tourists and our goal is to inspire in particular travellers from Europe and America with this new resort. We have achieved great success in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa over the past years, and we are prepared to bring our expertise as the only independent European luxury hotel group to more key destinations and gateway cities across the globe.”

Ulrich Schwark, Director of Two Oceans Group added “This resort will set a new standard of luxury in one of Central America’s most beautiful locations. The Kempinski brand further strengthens the value of this development offer and ensures that we provide our guests the highest levels of service.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced that its global powerhouse Sheraton Hotels will be a key force in the company’s growth in 2012 with the opening of 20 new hotels. Sheraton will also widen Starwood’s lead as the largest global hotel operator in China, with 12 new Sheraton hotels slated to open across this fast-growing market by year’s end driven by strong demand in second and third tier cities. In North America and Europe, Sheraton expects to grow its portfolio by capturing more than its fair share of conversion opportunities.Sheraton Picks up Momentum in China

Sheraton is slated to open 12 new hotels across China in 2012, reaching a total of nearly 80 hotels there by 2015. Nearly 40% of all future Starwood hotels opening in China will fly the Sheraton flag, building on the brands 30-year legacy in this fast-growing market. The Sheraton brands rapid growth is also moving Starwood closer to its goal of opening its 100th hotel in China later this year.

Sheraton Set to Open the Brands Largest Hotel in the World: Sheraton Macao

The iconic brand will mark a milestone later this year with the opening of the nearly 4,000-room Sheraton Macao, which will be the largest Sheraton, as well as the largest Starwood hotel in the world. Offering three restaurants with poolside cafes, 140,000 square feet of meeting space and two outdoor swimming pools, Sheraton Macao is a highly anticipated addition to Cotai Strip, also known as the Las Vegas of Asia.

Eight New Sheraton Resorts Slated to Open in 2012

Sheraton will expand its global resorts portfolio in 2012 with the opening of eight new resorts in sought-after locations including Bali, Indonesia. The development boom in China has fuelled a surge of new Sheraton resort openings throughout China in locations like Huzhou, Changbaishan and Xiangshan. Sheraton will also open a new flagship resort in Bali, Indonesia and its second resort in Huizhou.

Global Powerhouse Expands Footprint in Other Emerging Markets

Adding to its current portfolio of 18 hotels in the Middle East, Sheraton will open its fourth hotel in Saudi Arabia in 2012 – Sheraton Medina Hotel. That opening will be followed by a new Sheraton in Dubai in 2013 and two hotels in Pakistan in 2014.

Another hot growth market is Eastern Europe, where Sheraton will make its debut in the Ukraine in 2013 with the upcoming opening of Sheraton Kiev Olympiysky Hotel followed by the brands second hotel in Russia: Sheraton Rostov-On-Don Hotel.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

DoubleTree by Hilton has announced the opening of the DoubleTree by Hilton, Shanghai-Pudong – the tenth hotel to open in China as part of the fast-growing, upscale hotel brand within the Hilton Worldwide portfolio of hotels. The 850-room, two-tower, iconic hotel complex soars majestically 47 storeys over the Shanghai’s Pudong New Area and offers convenient access to Shanghai New International Exposition Center (SNIEC), Shanghai Central Business District and the Shanghai High-Speed Maglev Train to Pudong International Airport. As part of the conversion of the former Sofitel JJ Oriental Hotel, the DoubleTree by Hilton, Shanghai-Pudong will commence a multi-million-dollar (USD) property refurbishment program in early 2012 with a variety of new product, service and design enhancements throughout the hotel that are forecasted to be completed in 2013.

Hotel amenities include more than 16,000 square feet of flexible meeting and special event space, a fitness centre, spa with men’s and women’s sauna and steam facilities, outdoor tennis courts, indoor swimming pool and extensive retail shops. As part of the hotel’s refurbishment program, a new 800 square-metre (8,000 square-feet) ballroom will be constructed, while all food & beverage outlets, meeting and banquet space and retail offerings will also be re-designed and revitalized to meet the high quality standards and contemporary style of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand.

Formerly the Sofitel JJ Oriental Hotel, the DoubleTree by Hilton, Shanghai-Pudong will operate under a franchise agreement with Shanghai Jin Jiang International Hotels (Group) Co. Ltd. and will be managed by Interstate China Hotels & Resorts Company Limited, a joint venture between Shanghai Jin Jiang International Hotels Company Limited (“Jin Jiang Hotels”), China’s leading hotel operator and developer and Interstate Hotels & Resorts, one of the largest and leading U.S.-based global hotel management companies.

Europe’s only b2b conference for the boutique and lifestyle sectors is bigger and better for 2012, with more content, more speakers and a new, exciting ‘non-hotel’ London venue – Altitude (limited to a maximum of 200 delegates). The Summit will be held at Altitude London in the heart of Westminster, next to the London Eye, The Houses of Parliament and the River Thames.

The main conference sessions will be held in the venue’s Media Centre, which features London’s biggest state-of-the-art cinema-style auditorium, while the breakout sessions and networking will be in the stunning River Room, with its inspirational views of the Thames.

And in a bid to offer delegates even better value for money, the conference has been extended from a day and a half to a full two days, with extra sessions added on the afternoon of May 21st.

The new sessions are:
• The hub of the wheel – general managers: A selection of top GMs speak about the challenges of their role at the heart of the hotel, and how it is evolving.

• Mind, body and soul – achieving the right spa and wellness offering

Event organiser Piers Brown said: “We’re really pleased to have confirmed such an exciting non-hotel venue for Boutique Hotel Summit 2012. The facilities and location at Altitude London are first class and will enable us to put on a really innovative, informative and enjoyable event. We’re also delighted to expand our agenda to two days, making room for a session devoted to general managers, and another focusing on spa and wellness offers.”

Don’t miss this great opportunity to make great business contacts and learn what makes this vibrant industry sector tick.

To secure your tickets, please visit www.boutiquehotelsummit.com

From the annual analysis of the French hotel supply conducted by MKG Hospitality, on 1st January 2012, France counts less than 18,500 classified hotels for a total number of less than 648,000 rooms. This last figure sees a net loss of 6,400 hotel rooms.The constant shrinkage of the French hotel supply is mainly due to the decrease within the Economy independent-hotel category (1* and 2*). In this category alone, there are 634 fewer hotels and 12,300 fewer rooms than last year. The new supply coming mostly from hotel chains is not sufficient to compensate the losses. It is getting increasingly difficult to launch new construction projects and to compete with long-stay residences.

The overall shrinkage of France’s capacity to accommodate foreigners means that international clients might relocate to countries better equipped than France. The industry calls for a realistic and dynamic tourist strategy in favor of new constructions and new hotel concepts.

While restructuring the hotel supply appears to be necessary to meet the needs of a hotel supply that has been revived by improved quality, the void left behind as obsolete hotels (or hotels that are out of the market) disappear is no longer successfully being replaced by a new supply. The detailed analysis of the hotel supply carried out for the entire country by the database at MKG Hospitality shows a national supply that has shrunk by 1%, to drop below the 648,000 room mark. A net balance of another 6,385 rooms disappeared from the inventory. This loss may be added to the 8,500 rooms lost the previous year. With this new deterioration, France’s global supply is returning to its volume of a decade ago, in the midst of the 9-11 crisis.

This situation is explained by to the sharp decrease of the independent hotel supply that shrank by 2% (or 7,300 fewer rooms). This happened at a time when the usual dynamism of the chain-hotel supply is slowed by difficulty of bringing a new supply out of the ground and pursuing the cleaning of certain franchise brand chains. In the end, the chain supply grew by fewer than 1,000 rooms in all.

The economic crisis, the cost of marketing, and consumer expectations have undermined the profitability of a growing number of economy hotels that are paying the high price with a net drain of 634 hotels and 12,300 rooms – a record loss.

However, the slump in the independent hotel sector does not condemn all operations. The same inventory also shows that growth in the independent supply is very significant in the three, four, and, five-star categories, which together experienced net growth of more than 5,000 rooms. This movement is the continuation of the decade-long trend that marks the return of independent hoteliers to there are of expertise: full service hotels in city centers.

Moreover, hotel groups have decided to place franchising amongst their developmental priorities. Due to internal movements between chains, the growing power of franchisees in the supplies of corporate chains is not visible in the figures representing global growth. Growth, even marginal, for chain hotels on a shrinking global market allows them to cross another threshold of market share. Today, more than 43% of the global supply operates under a hotel brand, and certainly more than 50% if we add the main consortia, which require the flying of their banner.

The analysis of the global lodging supply in France is pertinent only to classified hotels. However is they are not the only ones to address a commercial clientele. Parallel types of accommodations are increasingly poaching on these markets. Tax incentives remain strong for stimulating investments in new tourism residences and especially urban residences which have the advantage of being less seasonal. Despite the succession of high profile failures of operators such as Mona Lisa, Maison de Biarritz and Residhotel, real estate promotion is doing well: Adagio by Pierre&Vacances/Accor, Citadines, Appart’City, Park&Suites, Odalys City, Cerise by Exhore and Hipark are all multiplying their openings. While the tension with hoteliers may have subsided, it is clear that the residence-hotel model is absorbing a significant share of developers’ resources as they focus less on the hotel industry.

Azura at Quilalea, which opened in November 2011, underwent a six month renovation project redeveloping the entire infrastructure, expanding facilities and upgrading the nine luxurious villas in keeping with its pristine environment in the very southern part of the Quirimbas Archipelago. The new lodge is a true eco boutique retreat. The accommodation has been revamped in Azura’s trademark subtle yet stunning way, with natural furnishings and pure African elegance. The villas are built from natural coral stone and makuti thatch, and are open-plan and spacious with stylish décors of wood, cotton and locally sourced materials such as rope, pebbles and rattan. Conscious of its stunning setting and the need to preserve it, Azura at Quilalea has embarked on a unique energy saving project. All of the villas have an energy control system whereby guests can choose their own energy consumption through a wall switch at their villa, opting for either ‘ECO’ or ‘LUXE’; Eco resulting in power for the bare minimum requirements for the room, such as basic lighting and fan, or Luxe providing all mod cons including Aircon.Further south along the Mozambique coastline, Quilalea’s sister property, Azura on Benguerra Island (opened 2007) was hand built by the local community, and blends designer modern chic with all that is traditional in Mozambique. This includes beautifully carved beams, polished wooden floors and artisan artwork faultlessly finished off with the creature comforts of a five star boutique hotel.

Azura is an ethical lodge, owned and operated in partnership with the local community, with a vision to harness the power of responsible tourism for the benefit of the local people, whilst conserving the unique cultural and biological diversity of Benguerra Island. Even before the building plans were finalised or the first brick laid, a dedicated team of environmental specialists were appointed to identify valuable and essential local projects that Azura could support.

The actual building of Azura was done by hand using a local workforce of some 350 people, many of whom were trained up from their previous lives as subsistence fishermen. Extensive use was made of natural materials, transported to the island by dhow to reduce the amount of fuel utilised in the process. A state of the art sewerage treatment plant was installed to recycle the water thereby preventing damage to the environment often seen in the area by the use of soakaways.

The accommodation at Azura includes 16 spacious beach villas all just a stones throw from the beach. Nestled amidst the indigenous trees and bushes, each villa offers a private sanctuary for the ultimate in relaxation, furnished with cool designer contemporary cottons and textures of Africa, designed in complete harmony with their surroundings.

Coral Lodge 15.41 (opened in June 2010), a contemporary beach lodge in Northern Mozambique, was created by renowned Dutch designer Edward Van Vliet. An interior designer by trade, Van Vliet has added luxury hotel design to his portfolio, which is where he has made his mark. When creating Coral Lodge 15.41 he set out to combine the latest in luxury and comfort with an authentic feel of Mozambican style and pureness. Thanks to his use of natural colours and mix of wood and textures the lodge blends effortlessly with its surroundings. Van Vliet’s ethos of creating a ‘beautiful world within worlds’ and of resisting ‘decorative overkill’ but rather of combining traditional design and natural materials with innovative techniques, is apparent in the eclectic nature of Coral Lodge 15.41. A huge part of the design philosophy was the desire to embrace and preserve the wild, rugged and untouched Varanda nature reserve which surrounds the lodge. Privately owned, La Varanda is full of pristine beaches, dunes and mangroves.

Workers from the local community joined builders from Maputo and South Africa in constructing Coral Lodge, bringing their expertise in thatched roofing and setting tiles in the traditional way. They continue to contribute to the maintenance of the lodge.

Coral Lodge 15.41 comprises 10 villas, each with a surface area of about 100m². To further enhance the area’s natural setting the villas have been built on top of the dunes to give incredible sea views and a continuous breeze. For complete privacy and relaxation the minimalist villas include various sitting areas, a spacious bedroom, separate bathroom with huge bath and shower and large veranda with comfy chairs and daybed for lazy afternoons.

Furniture is one of the most important areas within an interior as it is the area with the most interaction. From leaning on a desk to sitting on a sofa or lying on a divan, we all interact with materials and structure on a daily basis. When it comes to individual bespoke furniture designs, think of no one else than Mille Couleurs.

Our aim is to provide each and every one of our clients a tailor-suited design, each made using the best materials in Europe. Our collections are only made for a limited period.

With over 25 years of experience working in the industry, we’ve built our reputation on high standards, attention to detail and quality of service.

With a wide variety of talents, our team of craftsmen are dedicated and trained to offer the best.

Mille Couleurs has never wavered or compromised from its philosophy of using the best craftsmanship and quality materials to produce the finest products. This is why Mille Couleurs is the only choice for anyone who desires and demands the best.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced its Westin brand is on track to open its 200th hotel in the next 12 months, propelled by strong growth across Asia Pacific. Westin will open 11 new hotels this year, all but three outside the United States. More than half will open in China, the brand’s strongest growth market. Westin will also add new hotels in Indonesia, Panama City, New York and Snowmass, Colorado. Westin Extends Reach in Latin America

Westin is picking up the pace of development in Latin America where the brand has doubled its footprint over the last 18 months. Following this year’s opening of The Westin Panama, the brand will boast 11 hotels in Latin America, spanning five countries: Mexico, Panama, Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

Key openings in 2011 included the first Westin in South America in Lima, Peru, the sixth Starwood hotel in Panama, which is emerging as a key financial hub in Latin America, and Starwood’s first all-inclusive resort – The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa in Costa Rica.

Asia Pacific Demand Fuels the Westin Brand’s Global Growth

Westin will add six new hotels in China in 2012, resulting in a portfolio of 19 properties in this key market by year’s end, extending the brand’s reach in second and third tier cities. The new Westin hotels will open in fast-growing cities across China including Ningbo, Xiamen, Changbaishan, Taiyuan, Qingdao and Xian. These openings will be followed by four more Westin hotels in China by the end of 2013.

Indonesia will welcome its second Westin in 2012 – The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa, a highly anticipated addition to the brand’s growing resorts portfolio. Westin has also signed deals to debut in both Vietnam and Singapore by 2015.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Violet and anthracite, aquamarine and grass green, orange and cement are just three of the glorious new shade combinations now available for the classic Shell pouf, Wave lounger and Nido chairs to be found in the Paola Lenti Aqua Collection for outdoors.Available in 96 Rope chromatic possibilities the 10mm Rope Corda is also used to upholster the new Tide footstool and create the amazing Spin and Zoe rugs. Proving that the possibilities for creating beautiful exterior spaces and are endless.

Paola Lenti will be exhibiting this beautiful Collection in the stunning surroundings of the Chiostridell’Umanitaria in the heart of Milan during isaloni in April. This show should not to be missed.

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts is about to add its first property in Phuket to its portfolio. The international hotel group has been appointed the manager of the existing Courtyard by Marriott at Kamala Beach, which will be re-branded as Swissôtel Resort Phuket on 1 April 2012. This will be the group’s third property in Thailand and its first resort property in Southeast Asia. Just 30 minutes south of the Phuket International Airport, Kamala Beach is located in western Phuket, overlooking the Andaman Sea and is one of the best-known resort destinations on the island. The resort boasts 180 well-appointed suites, with a choice of one to three bedrooms. Designed for the discerning modern traveller, each spacious suite is equipped with a separate living room and private balcony. The enclosed bay and forested hills surrounding the resort makes it the ultimate choice for both leisure and business travellers who are seeking a relaxing retreat.

The resort provides an extensive range of facilities, including a lagoon-style pool, spa and fitness centre, an adventure club for families with children and an array of recreational activities. Guests can choose to relax in the comfort of the resort, visit nearby attractions, enjoy water sports on Kamala Beach or simply indulge in the breathtaking views in the area. Featuring eight versatile function rooms and a pre-function area, Swissôtel Resort Phuket has a conference capacity of 450 square metres, making it ideal for corporate meetings or events for up to 150 persons.

“Phuket is one of the most visited regions in Thailand and after operating two hotels in Bangkok for years, we are set to finally open our first resort property in Asia. This project will strengthen our presence and complement our expansion strategies within the region,” says Meinhard Huck, President of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts.

The highly respected Leonardo Hotels chain has signed a management contract with the exclusive 5-star Alden Luxury Suite Hotel. The hotel, which is a listed building, is seen by Leonardo Hotels as a standalone property and will be run as such. The 5-star Alden Luxury Suite Hotel was built in 1895 and fully renovated in 2004. A particular feature of the hotel is the way in which it cleverly combines the splendour of the fin de siècle with purist design and the high-tech comforts of the modern age. It has 22 exclusively furnished suites – including a presidential suite, a modern restaurant, a piano bar and even its own library.

Depending on type of room, the suites range in size between 60 and 100m². All offer modern comfort and luxurious interiors, in part with original stucco features and parquet flooring. They are equipped as standard with air conditioning, video on demand, flat-screen TV, high-speed Internet access and wireless LAN. The spacious bathrooms also have a whirlpool, a separate shower and, in some cases, a separate guest toilet.

On the culinary front, guests are spoiled in the Alden Restaurant and the piano bar. Just like the rest of the hotel, the rooms here delight with warm colours and modern designer furniture combined with historic elements. In addition to Swiss classics, guests dining in this elegant ambience can enjoy innovative main dishes or light snacks to stave off hunger between meals. Gault Millau has already awarded the hotel one toque for its excellent cuisine.

The Alden Luxury Suite Hotel is situated in the centre of Zurich, in the heart of the banking and financial quarter.

In 5 to 10 minutes guests can be at the world-famous Lake Zurich, the Tonhalle Zurich orchestral concert hall or the Opera House, as well as the well-known Bahnhofstrasse with its luxury boutiques or Zurich’s vibrant old town.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce that The Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection® Hotel, will open to the world in late April 2012. Located in the heart of Indonesia’s capital city of Jakarta, The Keraton at The Plaza is an iconic oasis of quiet luxury on the Jalan Thamrin, one of Jakarta’s most prestigious streets. With its unique modern ambiance reflective of Jakarta’s rich indigenous culture, a luxury spa and a full suite of distinctive amenities and epicurean experiences, The Keraton at the Plaza is an inimitable focal point for distinguished business and leisure travelers. Inspired by the Javanese word for “palace”, The Keraton at The Plaza is a distinct and intimate luxury hotel offering a unique, modern interpretation of the rich Indonesian culture. Rising from the 8th to the 22nd floors of the Keraton building, The Keraton is ideally located in the heart of Jakarta on Jalan Thamrin, a prestigious address that includes embassies, corporate headquarters, museums and Jakarta’s high-end shopping and entertainment complex, Plaza Indonesia. It is the perfect locale and setting for hosting corporate visitors and board meetings, intimate celebrations or a romantic getaway.

An Immersive Experience
The Keraton at The Plaza offers 140 spacious guest rooms and suites, including four sumptuous Keraton suites more than 135sqm each. Ranging in size from 61 – 140sqm, each guest room and suite is a haven of Javanese luxury, offering an open floor design with spectacular views of downtown Jakarta through floor-to-ceiling windows. With interior design by SCDA Singapore and the Burega Farnell, the sleek décor of The Keraton at The Plaza is inspired by the diversity of Indonesia’s geography and culture, with splashes of color, rich woods, and intricate Batik floral patterns. Artworks displayed throughout the hotel are commissioned to Hadiprana, a famous Indonesian interior designer. Each room offers state of the art in-room technology, including a 42-inch LCD Television with cable, as well as a 22-inch LCD television in the study with iPad, iPod and PC connectivity. Finally, each suite comes with personal, 24-hour butler service which includes a nightly turn-down.

…Continued on page two…

The Park Inn by Radisson, Thurrock announces the completion of extensive refurbishment works at the hotel. As part of the work, public areas, dining and meetings and events space have all been upgraded.The hotel’s stunning reception area, oak panelled library and lounge, have been overhauled with new decor and soft furnishings, creating a modern, eclectic feel, whilst retaining all of the original charm and features of the 18th century manor house.

The Terrace room, a flexible space ideal as a private dining venue, or boardroom has been fully refurbished. Offering floor to ceiling windows overlooking the hotel’s stunning lawns, The Terrace’s full overhaul includes: new furniture, carpets, lighting, decor and soft furnishings, creating a modern yet elegant space for parties and meetings for up to 30 people.

To further enhance the hotel’s wedding offering, both the Blenheim Suite and Garden Suite have also been fully refurbished. The Blenheim Suite has undergone a transformation with a mix of subtle tones and dark fabrics, creating an elegant space. Meanwhile, the Garden Suite, which opens out onto the garden patio, boasts lighter toned fabrics and a fresh look and feel.
Additionally, all 11 meeting rooms have been redecorated and state-of-the-art flat screen TVs have been added.

The Park Inn by Radisson, Thurrock is an elegant, converted Georgian manor house set in six acres of landscaped gardens. Centrally located with easy access to the M25, the hotel offers 97 guest rooms, a restaurant, bar, and a large event space, the largest room with a capacity of 120 banquet style.

Best Western Milford Hotel, located in Peckfield, Leeds, just off the A1(M) J42, has been awarded the highly acclaimed ‘PLUS’ status from the Best Western Group, one of the first hotels worldwide to be awarded the grade. The accolade coincides with the hotel’s completion of its final phase of refurbishment, investing £150,000 to upgrade 17 doubles and 19 twin rooms.The privately owned, modern 3 star hotel joins just 16 other hotels to have achieved this tribute in Great Britain and becomes the third Plus hotel in Yorkshire. The overall renovation programme included all 44 rooms being fitted with 4 star luxury bathroom suites and a complete facelift of 10 larger Superior rooms to deluxe status. Other improvements included air conditioning and sound-proofing in all rooms, a new hotel frontage, upgraded modern conference facilities and the fully refurbished Watermill restaurant, which serves award-winning, freshly prepared food for hotel guests and the local community.

The Best Western Plus status, launched in September 2011, categorises a selection of properties that now sit between the existing Best Western Premier and Best Western tiers. The tiers were created to give consumers more choice and clarity, easing their decision making process, which travel customers are increasingly searching for.

Best Western Plus hotels are everything you would expect from a hotel within the group with extra style, comfort and service. This includes bigger beds and top quality bedding, extended breakfast range and specialities, little treats on arrival 24 hours a day, bathrobes, additional complimentary toiletries and increased comfort and technology to make working and relaxing in the room even more enjoyable.

Best Western Milford Hotel’s managing director, Shaun Sleath, was one of the first hoteliers globally to apply after the launch and after passing rigorous standards and quality assessments, the hotel has been granted with the title and as such changes its name to Best Western Plus Milford Hotel.

Shaun Sleath said: “We are delighted to be one of the first hotels worldwide to be awarded the Plus status. It is a great testament to the ongoing investment, hard work, dedication and determination of the team here. We now have superior facilities and it is an honour to be rewarded with this prestigious Best Western title”

The three tiers have been developed after extensive guest feedback and build on the strict quality standards that all Best Western hotels have to adhere to. Six key areas define the tiers – welcome, food and drink, customer service, bathroom, sleep and work and entertainment. The Best Western tiers set the standard for these key areas of hotel experience and Best Western Plus and Best Western Premier build upon this with additional amenities and personality driven offerings.

Best Western has properties throughout the country ranging from country manors, castles and coaching inns to stylish town houses, super modern retreats and sumptuous secluded getaways, there is a hotel to suit every personality and type of British break.

The Rezidor Hotel Group has recently announced its debut in Qatar with the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha in Qatar. The existing Ramada Plaza Doha featuring 583 guest rooms will be converted to a Radisson Blu in Q3 2012. Gordon MacKenzie, General Manager of the hotel, added: “Although we are slightly sad to be leaving the Ramada family, we feel that joining the Radisson Blu brand will continue to enhance our services and open new avenues for international business. This is an extremely exciting time for us.”

The future Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha is located on a prominent intersection in the city centre with excellent access to the international airport and West Bay business district. It is one of the largest hotels in Doha and offers 583 modern, spacious rooms & suites in different styles. Food & beverage outlets include 6 bars and 12 restaurants – three of them recently won awards from Time Out Doha (Best Chinese Cuisine, Best Japanese Cuisine, Best Family Atmosphere in The Italian Job). For meeting & events, the hotel comprises 2,000 square meter of conference space; leisure facilities include 2 gymnasiums, 3 pools, saunas, squash, tennis, basketball, badminton, and treatment rooms.

Two Seaside Hotels have received Travelife Awards for eco-friendliness and sustainability. Seaside Los Jameos Playa Hotel**** received a Gold Award for constantly providing new opportunities for improving its local community and environment. The Seaside Palm Beach Hotel***** received the Silver Award.Travelife states that both hotels have ‘displayed a high level of commitment to sustainability as well as demonstrating they are actively involved in minimising the use of chemicals that damage human health and the environment’.

Travelife is a travel industry-led scheme, endorsed by ABTA and internationally recognised by tour operators. It is dedicated to protecting the environment and the well-being of guests, staff and the local community. If hotels meet their criteria they are awarded with bronze, silver or gold status. This helps visitors to make more informed choices about holidays and rewards hotels which are committed to improve their environmental and social practices.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts brings eforea: spa at Hilton, its innovative global spa concept, to China today with an opening at Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe. The spa is situated in the Tianhe district of China’s third-largest city, and is the first of two eforea: spa at Hilton locations scheduled to open in China this year. “With more than 90 eforea: spa at Hilton locations in development, opening our first location in China is an important milestone for us,” said Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. “This location at Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe complements the hotel’s contemporary design and offers guests the signature treatments and hallmark elements that are being well received by our guests and local spa-goers around the world.”

eforea: spa at Hilton debuted in October 2010 as the first global spa concept by Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide. Today, more eforea: spa at Hilton locations are in development with spas currently open in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Azerbaijan.

eforea: spa at Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe will feature some of the world’s finest spa brands on both the treatment menu and in the retail area. Kerstin Florian offers a progressive range of results-oriented European facial, body and bath products and treatments sourced from natural resources that include algae, mud, herbal extracts, thermal mineral water and essential oils. LI’TYA draws on the revitalizing and restorative powers of Australia’s native resources to provide a holistic spa experience. VitaMan provides a comprehensive line of Australian-made natural spa and grooming products formulated specifically for men. Peter Thomas Roth products will complete the eforea offering with products and signature treatments that are an extension of the new in-room bath amenity collection available at Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties around the world.

The 9,000-square-foot spa at Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe offers eight treatment rooms, reflexology and massage pods, a Vichy shower room and an outdoor infinity-edge swimming pool. Signature design features include: an ice fountain, deluge head and Swiss shower jets, a full sauna, steam and hydro pool, and botanical elements unique to the destination.

Opening on 1st May, The Atholl is a glamorous new four suite hotel located on Atholl Crescent in the very heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.The ultimate inclassical contemporary chic, The Atholl comprises of four very generous sized suites:
• The Palmerston – one-bedroom 1065 square foot
• The Cluny – two-bedroom 1593 square foot
• The Abercromby – three-bedroom 2885 square foot with terrace and hot tub
• The Dundonald – three-bedroom 3145 square foot

Incorporating the original Georgian features, each comes with elegant dining and living rooms, state of the art kitchens, TVs, coffee machines and toiletries.

In-room dining is overseen by legendary Chef Albert Roux OBE, KFO head of the famous cooking dynasty behind such establishments as Le Gavroche which was the first ever restaurant in the UK to be awarded three Michelin Stars. Private chefs will prepare bespoke mouth-watering menus while some of the world’s finest wines will be on offer in the suites own Gaganau wine fridges.

Situated just minutes from the Castle, Parliament, Princes Street and George Street, close to both Waverley and Haymarket stations and 20 minutes from Edinburgh airport, The Atholl is the perfect location for leisure and business guests and is ideal for hosting drinks receptions, weddings, art shows and corporate events.

More images on page two…

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the opening of the new Holiday Inn Express San Diego South – National City, conveniently located just off Interstate 805 and minutes from San Diego International Airport and major tourist attractions, including the San Diego Zoo and Sea World. The former Comfort Inn, located at 1645 E. Plaza Boulevard, recently underwent a $2 million renovation of the entire 91-room hotel, including all guest rooms and the public spaces.

The newest Holiday Inn Express in the San Diego area, the hotel is conveniently located and caters to both business and leisure travellers. It is just a short distance from the San Diego Convention Center, cruise ship terminals and the downtown Gaslamp District.

Guests will enjoy a comfortable and smart environment with innovative, preferred-guest upgrades to ensure a productive stay while travelling for business or leisure. The hotel’s complimentary Express Start® breakfast bar features 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.
Guest rooms have been completely refreshed and offer new furniture, including 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. All rooms include granite countertops and an urban design scheme with a mix of green and java-colored furnishings. Business travelers will find large desks with ergonomic chairs, free local and toll-free phone service with private voicemail and complimentary USA TODAY® newspapers.

The Holiday Inn Express San Diego South – National City is owned by SD Plaza One LP and managed by Excel Hotel Group under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Louvre Hotels Group establishes itself in Russia
Louvre Hotels Group has opened its first hotel in Russia. Opened to the public in January 2012, this Tulip Inn hotel is located in the Rosa Khutor Alpine Ski Resort in the Caucasus. The resort will host downhill skiing events at the Sochi Winter Olympic Games in February 2014. A second hotel, under the Golden Tulip brand, is due to open at the beginning of the third quarter in the same resort. Both hotels will be managed by IFK Hotel Management.

The arrival of Louvre Hotels Group in Russia, bringing the total number of countries in which the Group is present to 41, reflects the Group’s desire to continue its development in Eastern Europe. The Group aims to establish solid foundations for its medium and high range Tulip Inn and Golden Tulip brands in Russia, and already has two other construction projects underway in St.Petersburg and Altay region.

Louvre Hotels Group extends its presence in Algeria
Louvre Hotels Group announces the opening of its first hotel in Algeria, which will become the 42nd country where the Group is present. The Golden Tulip Arc-en-Ciel hotel located at Skikda will open in 2013. Strengthened by its success in Tunisia (4 hotels, 874 bedrooms) and Morocco (7 hotels, 1410 bedrooms) Louvre Hotels Group intends to profit from the opportunities offered by the Algerian hotel market and aims to open at least five other Golden Tulip hotels there.

The Group is now strongly represented in the North Africa and Middle East region, where it is ranked 4th largest hotels group with 53 hotels in eight countries, representing a total of 8,300 rooms. North Africa and the Middle East are among the geographical areas that contribute the most to the Group’s development.

Hotel Missoni reaches one of the most fashionable islands in the world: Mauritius, the shooting star of the Indian Ocean, and the 66th country where Rezidor is present. Overlooking the village of Baie du Cap, Hotel Missoni Mauritius will boast 80 luxury suites with unobstructed views of the ocean and the islands unrivalled beaches. It is scheduled to welcome the first guests in 2014.

“Combining Missoni’s iconic design with the local culture influenced by Europe, Africa and Asia, the hotel will be truly unique in Mauritius”, said Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of Rezidor.

“Having been passionate about Mauritius, an island of beauty and charm, its colourful culture and its wonderful population for over 30 years now, I am delighted to partner with Rezidor to bring a new kind of luxury hotel in Mauritius under the prestigious Missoni brand, which will surely be a great success and a new flagship premium quality hotel of the tourism industry in Mauritius”, added Gilles Bouigue, Executive Chairman of Bouigue Développement, owner of the property.

Food & beverage outlets will include Hotel Missoni’s signature restaurant “Cucina” with an authentic seasonal Italian menu; “Choco Café”, an intensely flavoured sip of classic Italian café society; a further all day dining restaurant, a lounge bar and a beach/pool bar. Leisure facilities will comprise direct access to a 650 meter sandy beach, outdoor pools, a fitness area including gym and tennis court, a kids club and a 900 square meter spa. Sunbathing, water sports, deep sea fishing, hiking, cycling and golf are just some of the leisure options available in the vicinity. Business travellers will benefit from 235 square metres of dividable meeting space with the latest AV technology.

Hotel Missoni Mauritius is located just 40 minutes from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and 50 minutes from the islands capital Port Louis.