Hotel Designs

Louvre Hotels Group is announcing the signature of a partnership with Groupe ACI OUTREMER, which specialises in real estate and hotel investments, to expand its positions in the French overseas departments and territories under its Première Classe and Campanile brands (two and three stars respectively). A partnership of trust between Louvre Hotels Group and Groupe ACI OUTREMER
The partnership between Groupe ACI OUTREMER and Louvre Hotels Group will pave the way for the launch of 16 new projects in the French overseas departments and territories over the next three years, with five hotels in La Réunion, four in Guadeloupe, three in Martinique and four in French Guiana.

Eight of these hotel projects have already been firmed up and will account for a total of over 490 rooms:
– Guadeloupe – Pointe à Pitre airport: Campanile (80 rooms) and Première Classe (40 rooms)
– French Guiana (Cayenne) – Route de Baduel: Première Classe (70 rooms)
– French Guiana – Cayenne airport: Campanile (60 rooms) and Première Classe (40 rooms)
– La Réunion – Saint-Pierre: Campanile (100 rooms)
– La Réunion – Sainte Clothilde: Campanile (100 rooms)
– Martinique – Le Lamentin: Campanile (100 rooms)

For each of the hotels covered by this partnership, Groupe ACI OUTREMER will arrange and finance the infrastructure development plan and sign a franchise agreement with Louvre Hotels Group. Likewise, Louvre Hotels Group will support the construction of the projects under hotel technical assistance agreements to ensure that the standards of the Première Classe and Campanile brands are met. Louvre Hotels Group will provide Groupe ACI OUTREMER with the benefit of its expertise in both the monitoring and smooth execution of the business plans for each hotel and the recruitment and training of hotel managers, as well as handling reservations via its global and centralised booking system.

French overseas departments and territories: a market in which Louvre Hotels Group boasts numerous strengths
Under this agreement with Groupe ACI OUTREMER, Louvre Hotels Group is seeking to expand its presence into the still undeveloped market of standardised chain hotels in French overseas departments and territories. The hotel complexes located to date in Martinique, La Réunion, Guadeloupe and French Guiana are situated a long way from the economic centres and are primarily intended for leisure travellers and thus do not meet the needs of business visitors.

The creation of economic hotel chains, such as Première Classe and Campanile, aims to cater to this emerging need in the French overseas territories. Louvre Hotels Group, which will enable business travellers in the French overseas departments and territories to pay 30% to 50% below the usual local hotel rates, is very well-placed to capitalise on the opportunities in this market.

Bolster its global positions through a partnership-based strategy
With this latest partnership, Louvre Hotels Group is again demonstrating its determination to bolster its presence outside mainland France and in international markets by joining forces with high-calibre local partners. This partnership-based strategy will give Louvre Hotels Group the benefit of in-depth knowledge of the local market, establish its expertise and raise the profile of its flagship brands in new regions of the world.

What’s more, the Group is looking to help drive economic development in the regions into which it is expanding. Working with a high-calibre partner such as Groupe ACI OUTREMER, which boasts genuine expertise in hotels and real estate in the French overseas departments and territories, will help to secure a long-term future for these projects.
This program was presented to the cabinet of the Minister of Overseas France.

The implementation of these projects going ahead will pave the way for the development of new activities in the French overseas regions, by providing accommodation capacity for business customers. These projects will have a positive impact on the performance of the regional economies.

Matthieu Evrard, Chief Development Officer of Louvre Hotels Group, commented: “This agreement will help us to establish and speed up the expansion of the Group and of our brands in these French departments by harnessing Groupe ACI OUTREMER’s first-class knowledge of and experience in the local markets.”

Stéphane de Reynal, Chairman of Groupe ACI OUTREMER, added: “This partnership with Louvre Hotels Group represents a tremendous opportunity for us to harness the benefit of its acclaimed expertise and its very well-known brands to build hotel projects that will meet genuine demand in French overseas regions.”

Marriott International, Inc. has recently celebrated the grand opening of the 107-room Residence Inn Edinburgh, the first Residence Inn branded property in the United Kingdom. The hotel, operated by Marriott International under a management agreement with Gladedale Ventures Limited, is centrally located in the Scottish capital’s new Quartermile development, the city’s most exciting new address.Colourfully dressed stilt-walkers, Scottish bagpipers and giant pandas “Sweetie and Sunshine,” representing Edinburgh’s most famous new residents since their arrival at the Edinburgh Zoo in December, also joined in on the festivities to mark the occasion.

Boasting 107 stylish and spacious studio and one bedroom suites designed by architect Foster + Partners and interior design house ICA Interiors, the Residence Inn Edinburgh is located near the picturesque Edinburgh Castle and the famed Royal Mile, as well as Edinburgh’s bustling business district, University and Haymarket and Waverly rail stations. Each suite offers a kitchen and expansive living, dining and working zones, designed for comfort for travellers staying five days or more. Special amenities include complimentary hot breakfast and Wi-Fi, grocery delivery service, 24/7 marketplace and fitness centre.

Scottish Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing commented, “I am delighted that Edinburgh is home to the first Residence Inn in Scotland. They have chosen to make the most of an excellent location in Quartermile which reflects the unique heritage of the city but also underlines the opportunities for development and growth. Around four million people visit our capital every year to make the most of our world renowned festivals and this will provide Marriott with an excellent platform for success with this new venture.”

ITC Hotels has announced a new addition to its Luxury Collection of Indian hotels – ITC Rajputana, in Jaipur, joins the eight other prestigious hotels inthe Collection.

Designed along the lines of a haveli (a traditional Indian mansion), this sprawling redbrick complex, with its split levels, hidden courtyards, manicured gardens, minimalistic lattice work and sumptuous decoration, is a tribute to magnificent local Rajput architecture.Being unveiled early in 2012, another of Jaipur’s palaces will open to the public for the first time – Jal Mahal (‘lake palace’) is set on the banks on the man-made Mansagar Lake and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory.

Jaipur together with Delhi and Agra make up India’s famed Golden Triangle – three must-visit destinations for any discerning tourist. With the addition of the ITC Rajputana to the Luxury Collection, this portfolio now has a presence in each of these cities and it is excellent timing for those wishing to explore Jaipur’s newly opened palace as part of their Golden-Triangle experience.

ITC Rajputana’s luxurious accommodation is made up of 201 rooms and 17 exquisite suites. Guests will be able to choose from a range of options including elegant Royale rooms, luxurious chambers and Executive Club rooms featuring workspace for the corporate traveller.

ITC Hotels’ acclaimed dining concepts are represented in this property by five restaurants and bars with highlights including an outpost of award-winning Peshawri, which dishes up the authentic, rustic flavours of the North West Frontier and Sheesh Mahal – nicknamed the ‘Palace of Mirrors’ – well-known as the best bar in town.

A wealth of leisure facilities include the luxurious and award-winning Kaya Kalp Spa, an outdoor pool, a spacious indoor gym and jogging track for keen runners. World-class conference facilities are also available for the adroit business traveller to India.

As the first premium brand in the world to achieve LEED Platinum rating when all original eight of the Luxury Collection hotels were awarded this prestigious accolade in 2011, it was ITC Rajputana’s commitment to ITC Hotels’ ethos of Responsible Luxury that elevated it to Luxury Collection status. Already in place are a wealth of eco-friendly measures that make the hotel water positive, carbon positive and solid waste recycling positive. ITC Rajputana is Rajasthan’s first and only LEED Platinum rated hotel.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts continues to be at the forefront of digital innovation in the luxury travel industry with the introduction of a new, highly experiential global website. The new fourseasons.com offers an immersive and user-friendly experience, combined with rich global content, impactful design and social media integration. Guests can transport themselves to a distinctive Four Seasons destination with just a click. “Four Seasons has always provided an unparalleled hotel experience, and this level of service and engagement extends into our online presence,” says Susan Helstab, Executive Vice President Marketing, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “The new website anchors our already strong digital presence online, in social media and with the various communities we facilitate.”

As the first luxury hotel brand to fully embrace social media, Four Seasons moved digital to the forefront early on with Four Seasons magazine online, the introduction of blogs such as Have Family Will Travel, and a strong presence on social networking sites to suit the ways guests and travel partners communicate. The new Four Seasons website was thoughtfully designed in the same vein, to deliver an immersive and effortless experience tailored to every user. The brand’s signature service, locations and experiences are showcased through photo-rich, informative property and destination pages.

In addition to the new site, Four Seasons held focus groups globally to better understand guest and travel partner needs. This insight informed the content of the inaugural issue of the 2012 Four Seasons Luxury Trend Report. The first issue, The Luxury Consumer in the New Digital World: Then & Now, is now available online.

Interior design firm Bilkey Llinas Design (BLD) and hotelier, noted Chinese author Mr Lui, also known as Hai Yan, are pleased to announce the successful opening to critical acclaim for design and atmosphere of the Yan Club in the Kunlun Hotel, situated at 2 Xinyuan Nanlu, Beijing.The designers, having recently renovated the Kunlun Hotel to a contemporary 5-star international standard for Hai Yan, designed the Yan Club in the former backyard garden of the property. The eponymous club is also a play on words, evoking not just the owner’s name but also the connection with the stonework used throughout the club (having the same Chinese character as Yan’s name) and formed part of the design foundation for the designers’ sensitive and inspiring design.

Entering The Yan Club conjures the impression of venturing into a luxurious enchanted garden. This eclectic fantasy world blends rough surfaces with glitz, nature with fantasy, East and West, traditional and modern. The design is further amplified with dramatic and often colorful lighting to create an adventure full of surprises.

The more than 20 separate spaces form an enchanting maze of gorgeous VIP rooms and intimate lounge areas. These range from intimate private lounges and semi private booths, to al fresco garden terraces and the open bar areas where bands play live music. Large windows face onto the gardens and many of the spaces open with glass French doors. It’s a series of different experiences all pulled together with the indoor-outdoor magical garden theme.

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Generally it is thought that chandeliers do not yield to the yacht market. People think they are fragile, not seaworthy and will not withstand salty environments and vibrations. Since the structure of chandeliers is completely different and difficult to ordinary pendant lighting, they require sophisticated engineering in order to protect the fragile crystal parts. However, with some modifications they can be converted to suit the yacht market and create an impressive design statement.Crystal Caviar are specialised in custom lighting within moving objects such as yachts, aircrafts and trains. Developed over a number of years, Crystal Caviar‘s specialist knowledge has been applied to fittings used in hotels in earthquake zones and sea coast areas with high corrosive environment. Crystal Caviar‘s know-how comes from centuries of proven technology and tradition of Bohemian crystal production.

How do you design and build a chandelier for yachts?

The owner or designer usually has a certain concept of lighting. They know roughly the size and the style of the chandelier required, whether that is classical, art deco, flower theme, Mother Nature theme, contemporary or ultramodern. The chandelier usually complements the style of the whole space, the colours and textures on other surfaces and the atmosphere.

The next step is the size, glass and glass technology specification. Here Crystal Caviar can suggest and develop the designer´s ideas, creating a feasible concept with appropriate materials. After the design is approved, the testing period starts. Every part of the chandelier is tested in weathering chambers. Parts are exposed to salty environment in special chambers. Parts and an assembled chandelier are tested on vibration platforms to check for latent faults and tension in the glass to avoid rattling. Sometimes unexpected rattling occurs on the platform. It is then rectified through a system of vibration dumpers, silentblocks, silicone beads or gluing the rattling parts. As the director of Crystal Caviar says, “Firstly, the chandelier has to be safe – then it can be beautiful”.

An extremely important part of the process is the onboard installation. Even a beautifully designed and well-produced chandelier, if not installed properly, can result in disaster if the final aesthetic and durability is wrong. On yachts, there are very experienced outfitters constructing the luxury interior spaces, so agreeing the interface and fixings is usually solved easily. Crystal Caviar provides the requirements for power supplies and the interface between the chandelier and ship structure. The chandelier can be installed by the outfitter, or when required, by a skilled in-house team from Crystal Caviar. The building and installation of a chandelier can be, with proper planning, a trouble-free turnkey project.

Amongst those designers who have made a bold decision and experienced the additional impact a chandelier can have on their design include: Andrew Winch Designs, H2 yacht design, Reymond Langton yacht design, Guido de Groot, A Massari yacht design and Evan K Marshal, to name just a few. Some of these designers have successfully used chandeliers as big as ten metres long in their interior designs. They have created a unique chandelier concept for their projects and by doing so have enhanced the beauty of their yacht interiors. Crystal Caviar is proud to work for many designers on a variety of projects on and off the sea.

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London’s oldest railway hotel, The Grosvenor, has come to the end of an extensive interior and exterior refurbishment project, as the world’s eyes turn to the capital for 2012.

The iconic Grade II-listed property, which originally opened its doors in 1862 and was the first hotel in the capital to have fully functioning lifts, has been restored to its full Victorian splendour by Guoman Hotels.Managing Director of Guoman and Thistle Hotels, Heiko Figge, says: “The reputation and history of The Grosvenor makes it a valuable addition to the Guoman Hotels portfolio and allows us to build on our London presence for 2012. We have invested a great deal into blending the hotel’s original charm with modern day comforts to reinstate The Grosvenor as one of the grandest and most well-loved hotels in London.”

During the course of the 18-month project Guoman has worked hand-in-hand with experts from English Heritage to lovingly preserve and revitalise the building’s original architectural features. This included the reinstatement of the original gold leaf finish, hand painted onto all the columns in the grand lobby as well as the uncovering of original white marble on the iconic pillars – discovered as the works progressed.

The end of the project will also see the hotel officially become the fifth member within the luxury Guoman Hotels portfolio. Presented at an impressive four-star deluxe standard, all of The Grosvenor’s 346 bedrooms have been transformed to a high specification. There is a new residents’ gym, offering the latest fitness equipment, as well as a fully-enhanced meeting and conference space where all of the rooms are named after iconic trains – a direct homage to the hotel’s heritage as a central railway hotel.

Meanwhile, the sweeping marble staircase at the heart of the building now leads to a new destination bar, Réunion, underlining the hotel’s reputation as the ideal central spot for meetings and champagne gatherings in the hub of Victoria.

Other points of the full refurbishment include:
• Restoration of the light and airy lounge area, perfect for an informal meeting or a delicious, traditional afternoon tea
• The creation of Grand Imperial, a stunning Cantonese fine dining restaurant which includes a private dining room for 20
• Creation of nine new meeting rooms on the first floor, with accommodation for groups of up to 110
• A new manned business centre
• Creation of three new executive Suites including a separate lounge area, heated bathroom floors, a roll top bath and rainfall shower, a Nespresso coffee machine, a complimentary mini bar and flowers, fruit and Champagne on arrival

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort’s $45 million makeover of the iconic Rainbow Tower is complete. The transformation of all 800 rooms began in April with each room receiving a total makeover, including all furnishings, carpet, wall covering, bathrooms, baths, fixtures, drapery and artwork. Architect and designer Ann Matsunami of Pacific Asia Design Group used the colours of Hawaii as the basis of developing themes for the new rooms: the warm and vibrant colours of the sun, the glow of a day at the beach represented by orange and golds. The look and feel is contemporary and welcoming, with tropical textures on clean shapes. The corridors on all guest-room floors, three through to 31, have been upgraded with new light fixtures, wall coverings, carpet and artwork. Lifts lobbies also received new lift door faces and frames, new flooring, lighting and wall treatment.

The tower’s signature suites, the Duke Kahanamoku Suite and the Niumalu Suite on the 31st and 30th floors, respectively, were completed with a total price tag of $1 million in upgrades. The Duke and Niumalu Presidential Suites now feature contemporary and sophisticated interiors with subtle touches of Hawaiian influence. Jewel tones of sapphire blues and golds recall the shimmering ocean in calm, soothing backgrounds of textured neutrals. A large living area and adjacent dining area and pantry with separate sitting area allow for the perfect layout for hospitality and elegant receptions.

The resort features more than 90 shops and 16 restaurants, lounges and bars; and every Friday evening, it sets the stage for a celebration of Hawaiian culture and entertainment ending in a spectacular fireworks show.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the opening of the new Holiday Inn North Phoenix, which recently underwent a conversion from a Ramada Plaza hotel. The extensive $4.5 million renovation includes a complete remodelling of the hotel. The first hotel in Phoenix to install a solar water-heating system to provide hot water to the entire property, the new Holiday Inn North Phoenix was developed to be more efficient to build, operate and maintain. The 91,000 square foot hotel at 12027 N. 28th Drive – at the intersection of I-17 and Cactus Road – has 174 rooms, including eight suites. The exterior of the hotel, as well as the lobby, restaurant and lounge, feature a modern fresh design unique to the Holiday Inn brand.

The hotel design has a residential atmosphere that is warm, trend forward and comfortable. The hotel features a natural, fresh colour palette punctuated by pops of energetic colours. Guest beds are made using crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” While the bathrooms include a specially designed showerhead that offers superior pressure, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod and new amenities.

The residential design includes business-focused necessities such as an ergonomic workstation, data ports, complimentary newspapers, complimentary high-speed Internet access in guest rooms and WiFi capabilities. In addition, each room features the standard Holiday Inn guestroom accommodations – comfortable double, queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, hairdryer, micro fridge, coffee maker, iron and ironing board.

Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Sky Harbour International Airport and downtown Phoenix, the new hotel offers 2,750 square feet of meeting space, a fitness centre and an outdoor pool with a whirlpool.

The full service hotel includes the Tandoori Times 3 restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. menu, with signature items such as Rainforest AllianceâAn authentic Indian bistro, Tandoori Times 3 provides guests with a relaxed casual atmosphere that includes a lounge and patio bar. Known for its exotic dishes from the northern regions of India, the restaurant also offers American fare, including the standard Holiday Inn Best-4-Breakfast™ Certified coffee, Cinnamon Supreme French Toast™ and Skillet Inspirations™. Kids 12 and younger eat free at Holiday Inn when ordering from the kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant and accompanied by a dining adult. Room Service Right…On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time.

The Holiday Inn North Phoenix is owned by Bel Aire, LLC and managed by Advance Management & Investment, LLC, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Bespoke Hotels has recently announced that it has taken over the management of Cotswold House Hotel and Noel Arms in Chipping Campden.

The fast-growing hotel group, which counts a number of Cotswold properties among its 50-plus portfolio, has acquired the two hotels and is promising to restore both hotels to their place in the centre of this vibrant community.Bespoke Hotels chief executive, Haydn Fentum, who grew up in the Cotswolds and whose family have run a number of hotels in the area, said: “We’re very much looking forward to re-establishing both the Cotswold House and Noel Arms. These are difficult times for the hospitality, and many other industries. But both of these hotels have so much going for them, that we feel very optimistic that we can develop trade amongst both locals and visitors.”

“Our first task is to build relations with all of the local people. We really want to play our part in the local business community and help bring more trade and visitors to the area.”

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White sandy beaches, pristine clear waters and lush tropical rainforests are what make Hainan Island a true paradise and perfect holiday destination. Hainan Island is the smallest of the Chinese provinces and located in the South China Sea. As of Jan 8th, 2012, Kempinski is proud to open the Kempinski Hotel Haitang Bay, only 25 minutes from Sanya Phoenix International Airport. The property is set to become a stunning Chinese hideaway alive with European flair.The five-star hotel is made up of four interlinking parts – the hotel complex, private villas, a conference centre with several meeting rooms and a leisure part, which offers a golf course and a luxurious spa. A 1,200 meter long sea water river connects the different parts of the premises and taking the gondola between the guest rooms and restaurants is a romantic and not to missed experience.

The conference centre offers eleven meeting rooms for any conferences and meeting needs. The Grand Ballroom can host large events up to 1,200 guests. The spacious outdoor venue – a beautiful lawn, leading to a pristine sandy beach – is the ideal setting for beautiful weddings, birthday parties, gala dinners, anniversaries, celebrations and exhibitions.

Executive Chef Nikolaos Lekkas and his team will present delicious culinary creations in six outlets, with Café Berlin offering international buffets, the elegant Yuen Court Chinese Restaurant in modern design with the river floating through the restaurant will serve Cantonese cuisine and Hainan specialties. The El Faro Beach Bar invites guests to linger and relax, snacking and enjoying cocktails whilst taking in spectacular sunsets. At the world-renowned Paulaner Bräuhaus, guests can enjoy freshly home-brewed beer and hearty Bavarian dishes, being entertained by the live band! The Rotunda Café is located at the heart of the hotel complex. A la carte lunch and dinner feature the best of Chinese, Asian and Western cuisines. Crunchy snacks and soft sponge cakes are displayed alongside fine desserts, tempting guests to linger for an afternoon tea served by a tea specialist at the Rendez-vous Lobby Lounge.

The Art Centre, spectacularly located, surrounded by the river and golf has been built brick by brick from an old Shanghai-style house previously owned by Mr. Du Yue Sheng (20th century Chinese celebrity). The 9-hole practice golf course includes a children’s putting green, and blends perfectly into the picturesque garden. The Spa Centre will pamper you, relax and make you feel rejuvenated. Exclusive shopping, two well-lit tennis courts, outdoor swimming pools, fitness centre, games room and many other recreational facilities complete the menu offering.

Room Key, a new venture owned by six of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced that it has launched Roomkey.com, an innovative new online hotel search engine that will provide the simplicity, transparency and breadth of choice consumers expect from a search engine, while delivering the flexibility, accuracy and assurance consumers expect from the hospitality industry. Founded by Choice Hotels International, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, Marriott International, Inc. and Wyndham Hotel Group, part of the Wyndham Worldwide Corporation, or their respective affiliates, and led by a highly regarded management team, Roomkey.com provides travellers a search and book experience tailored for ease of hotel shopping through an uncluttered and trustworthy site. It will give consumers confidence that they have made the right choice by providing accurate hotel information straight from the source. From searching through to booking directly with the hotel, Roomkey.com enables consumers to search, book and relax.

This unique offering will quickly evolve to offer independent reviews, and the ability to compare, plan and share with friends and family. Room Key will initially focus on serving U.S. travellers, followed shortly after launch by the expansion of the site to English-speaking regions outside the U.S.

John F. Davis III, a highly experienced hospitality industry visionary with a history of entrepreneurial successes, is Chief Executive Officer of Room Key. He leads a veteran executive team with deeply relevant and complementary experience and accomplishments, including Chief Marketing Officer Stephany Verstraete and Chief Technology Officer J. Kurt Zimmer.

The Company acquired its technology platform from hotelicopter in an asset deal that closed last year. This innovative and flexible hotel search and direct connect platform allows Room Key to evolve and enrich the user experience quickly. Additionally, hotelicopter’s affiliate platform will provide destination marketing organizations with a hotel marketing platform that helps drive more direct bookings to their local hotels, now under the Room Key Solutions brand.

Mr. Davis said, “Finding the right hotel is complex and, unlike booking a flight or reserving a car, it is a personal decision process – one which no one understands better than hoteliers. We believe Roomkey.com will provide consumers with an innovative resource that will give them unprecedented confidence in their booking decisions by fulfilling their hotel search needs with comprehensive and trusted content, and over time, through additional features such as the ability to connect and share their plans with family and friends – all provided through a simple and flexible site experience.”

Bellstar Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce the opening of One Wellness & Spa at Solara Resort & Spa. The new wellness facility elevates Bellstar’s flagship luxury Canmore property to the leading wellness destination resort in the Canadian Rockies. Owned and operated by local resident and physiotherapist Hugh Simpson, One Wellness & Spa was founded after Simpson witnessed the destructive effects of extreme stress and pressure on the lives of two close friends. With a revolutionary concept striving to change the traditional ‘passive’ spa experience into an integrated exploration of personal wellness, dedicated to long-term transitions. Programs, packages and services are layered, focusing on the needs, preferences and objectives of the guest.

The Pathways to Engagement process is One Wellness and Spa’s signature experience menu. Guests choose a Pathway that best represents a current need – Sleep, Release, Clearing, Transition or Joy – and then they are led through a process of needs assessment, massage, specialized aromatherapy, custom breath work and guided imagery that best reflects his or her chosen Pathway. The aim is to support and inspire guests to continue along their pathway to wellness and health beyond the treatment room. More traditional spa services are also offered by a team of talented technicians, using the best possible products and ingredients: a Skin Fitness facial or Moisture Drench facial will leave skin nourished, glowing and radiant, while a stimulating Lemongrass Mimosa body scrub will help restore skin’s health and elasticity. Other services offered by the spa include personal training, fitness, Pilates, life strategy coaching sessions, nutrition related services and physiotherapy.

One Wellness & Spa is located at Solara Resort & Spa, Canmore’s most elegant destination resort. This deluxe property features fully furnished suites complete with gourmet kitchens, fireplace and living room. Fresh mountain air and breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky Mountains can be viewed from every window, inspiring guests to renew and escape from the routine of every day life. On site amenities include hot pools, fitness centre and an expansive conference and meeting space with a 96-seat theatre perfect for corporate events and weddings.

Perched on the edge of in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Canmore is nurturing its reputation as Canada’s leading health and wellness destination. With a unique mountain-culture, growing culinary offerings and artisan stores, as well as its proximity to pristine wilderness and world-class selection of exciting mountain sports, Canmore’s appeal continues to build.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the opening of the new Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Tempe University, which recently underwent a conversion from a Comfort Inn. The $1.5 million renovation includes a new exterior colour scheme and a new interior urban design in all 72 guest rooms. Conveniently located at 1031 E. Apache Boulevard, the three-story, 35,000-square-foot hotel is one block east of Arizona State University and just a half mile from the Mill Street District, which features a mix of outstanding restaurants and shops. The hotel also offers easy access to Interstate 10 and Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport.

With easy access to downtown Phoenix as well as the neighbouring communities of Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale, Chandler and Gilbert, the hotel features amenities such as free high-speed wireless Internet connections in guest rooms and the lobby as well as in the hotel’s 24-hour business centre. There is also a fitness centre and outdoor pool.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix/Tempe/University is owned by Tempe Hotel Partners LLC and managed by B&T Hospitality Management, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts have recently announced the brand’s return to Albany, N.Y., with the reflagging of Crowne Plaza Albany – City Center as Hotel Albany, an affiliate of Hilton.The hotel will undergo extensive renovations to the guest rooms, lobby, common areas, administrative offices and parking garage in early 2012, and upon completion will bear the new name of Hilton Albany. Hotel Albany is the first Hilton property in the Capital District region and joins The Saratoga Hilton as the second hotel in Upstate New York.

The hotel features 386 guest rooms, including suites with a separate living room area and executive rooms outfitted with a spacious and well-lit work space. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access, an indoor pool and two dining outlets, Webster’s Corner and Kelsey’s Restaurant. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to-and-from the Albany Airport and Rensselaer Amtrak Station that provide direct access to Manhattan.

Business travellers will find 25,200 square feet of flexible meeting space, including the largest ballroom in the Capital District; 15 meeting rooms; and a modern business centre. Two executive floors feature private access and a club lounge that serves breakfast, afternoon hors d’ oeuvres and cocktails.

Hotel Albany offers a prime location within walking distance of the Capitol Building, Empire State Plaza and Times Union Center. Guests will enjoy the convenience of being located at the centre of the downtown entertainment and dining district, blocks away from the Capital Repertory Theatre, Palace Theatre, New York State Museum and the Albany Institute of History & Art.

Morgans Hotel Group has recently announced that it has entered into a hotel management agreement for an approximately 360-room Mondrian-branded hotel to be located at Sea Containers building on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. This hotel is expected to be the sixth Mondrian hotel in the expansion of the Company’s iconic brand and the first Mondrian hotel in Europe. Upon completion and opening of the hotel, Morgans will operate the hotel pursuant to a 25-year management agreement, with two 10-year extension options. The hotel is scheduled to open in early 2014.

“We are very excited to announce our first Mondrian hotel in Europe,” said Michael Gross, Chief Executive Officer of Morgans Hotel Group. “Sea Containers is an exceptional property in a key gateway city that will allow us to serve our guests for business and leisure throughout the year. Morgans was specifically selected by the property’s owner to develop and manage Mondrian London, which is a testament to the appeal of our lifestyle management and the strength of the Mondrian brand. This is the third new management agreement for a Mondrian-branded hotel that we have announced this year. We believe the Mondrian brand has unique appeal and significant potential for global expansion.”

Jonathan Ofer, Managing Director of the Deerbrook Group, the adviser to the owner said, “We conducted a thorough operator selection process and believe Morgans under the Mondrian brand will create a special destination at Sea Containers.”

Sea Containers is an approximately 412,000 square foot office building centrally located on the South Bank of the River Thames, close to many cultural attractions as well as business hubs. The owner of Sea Containers intends to renovate the building into a mixed-use development to include a 360-room Mondrian hotel and 280,000 square feet of prime office space. The hotel will have an innovative restaurant and both a ground floor bar and rooftop bar, specially conceived by The Light Group, one of the world’s leading food and beverage operators. Morgans intends to invest approximately 9 million pounds, or approximately $15 million, of key money into the project.

Earlier in the year, the Company announced it has entered into hotel management agreements for Mondrian-branded hotels in Doha.

Editors Note: The new owners of the Sanderson and St. Martins Hotels, Cedar Capital Partners, are embarking on refurbishment programmes at the hotels which will continue to be managed by Morgans

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The Latest addition to the Heritage Silverware collection is their “Afternoon Tea service” range which has recently enjoyed tremendous success with Hotel Du Vin, featuring in 14 Hotels during their afternoon tea launch in September 2011. This classically designed rustic metal two-tier tea stand with cut crystal glass plates is perfect for showcasing fine pastries and delicacies, a perfect accompanyment to the fine bone China teaset, featuring a delicate decoration of blue flowers and butterflies.

The tea stand is also available as a three-tier serving and all items can be purchased individually.

This set also proved popular with the public over Christmas as many bought the set to give as a gift to family and friends.

For further information please visit our website, www.heritage-silverware.com

Bellagio has completed the remodel of all 2,568 rooms in its main tower offering guests a fresh, elegant collection of newly redesigned deluxe accommodations.

Each of the three distinct color palettes now available at Bellagio further enhances the AAA Five Diamond guest experience at one of the world’s most iconic resorts. Created by MGM Resorts International Design Group, the new rooms reflect an updated, elegant feel pairing modern conveniences with the warmth of home. Three unique designs elicit a distinct sensibility based on the colours and patterns utilized throughout each concept. The Resort King Rooms feature either an indigo and silver combination or a green tea and plum palette while the Resort Queen Rooms welcome guests with an amber and butterscotch motif. All three designs also are offered with the popular Lakeview option, overlooking the breathtaking and majestic Fountains of Bellagio.

The three colour schemes incorporate the essence of Bellagio through botanical macro-photographic images displayed in the rooms and guest hallways, many of which were created exclusively for the hotel.

Providing a streamlined and contemporary focal point within each room, the dresser and connecting mirrored wardrobe are made of a deep, rich eucalyptus topped with a marshmallow smoke stone. Within this centrepiece, guests will find eight spacious drawers, a fully stocked mini-bar, a tray of snacks and novelties and a media connectivity hub.

The new room design creates enhanced functionality with the addition of benches at the end of each bed, brighter lighting in the bedroom and bathroom and a full-length mirror in the foyer. Guests also will enjoy the comfort of an ergonomically designed desk space and chair as well as two plush armchairs for those moments of relaxation.

Convenient amenities can be found at every turn including a 40” mounted flat-screen television; a bedside iHome docking station; a centralised media hub designed to accommodate a variety of digital devices; electrical connections on the bedside lamps; and a laptop safe in one of the nightstands.

In keeping with Bellagio’s commitment to sustainability, the newly remodelled rooms incorporate environmentally responsible elements including: LED lighting in corridors and guest rooms providing 60 percent greater energy efficiency; organic carpeting primarily made from wool and furniture made from eucalyptus, both renewable resources; a new double towel bar in the bathroom for increased ability to dry and reuse towels; and a 180 percent improvement in air circulation from the previous room.

The remodel, totaling approximately $70 million, began in June 2011 and took six months to complete.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., has announced plans to continue its global expansion with the brand’s first hotel in the capital city of Vienna. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is owned by an investor represented by Verny Capital. Earlier in 2011, they also completed the acquisition of The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow.The 202-room hotel is located on Schubertring, the historic and famous site of numerous monumental buildings built during 1860 to 1890. Home of the Vienna State Opera and the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna is well known for its essential role as a leading European Classical Music Centre.

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is located in two 19th century palaces which are listed as culturally protected properties in Austria. The location is among the most desirable locations in the city for a luxury hotel.

“We are honoured to have been selected by Verny Capital to assume management of this incredible hotel,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “We have viewed many sites in Vienna over the years and believe this location will offer our sophisticated travellers an exciting new place to explore and enjoy. The Ringstrasse, as it is known, encircles the old city of Vienna. Constructed in the late 19th century this prime location, combined with the exemplary service for which The Ritz-Carlton is known, will produce memorable stays for all our guests when it opens in the second quarter of 2012.”

“We are delighted that The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will be entering the Austrian market in association with us” said Timur Issatayev of Verny Capital. “Our selection of The Ritz-Carlton is based on a very strict assessment of the company’s renowned stature in the hospitality industry and our existing relationship with them.”

Asked about additional growth in the region for Ritz-Carlton, Humler added, “We continue to explore other opportunities and destinations in Europe. With the region’s strong travel and tourism industry, we see expansion in Europe, with the right hotels in the right locations, to be an essential part of our future strategy.”

With a legacy of pioneering the airport hotel concept in 1959 in San Francisco through the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand, parent company Hilton Worldwide recently introduces two dynamic, modern airport hotels that represent the evolving wave of airport properties – Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport and Hilton Frankfurt Airport. Each hotel pairs a sophisticated guest experience including resort-style amenities and wellness options with skywalk access to Frankfurt Airport’s Terminal 1.The hotels stand adjacent in a futuristic “horizontal skyscraper” called THE SQUAIRE, and this marks the first time two hospitality brands under parent company Hilton Worldwide are opening in the same building in Europe. The hotels also overlook a lush urban forest. Internationally-renowned interior designer, JOI-Design (Hamburg, Germany), created the modern and sophisticated interior design of both hotels.

Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport

• Contemporary Guest Rooms – 334 guest rooms feature complimentary wireless Internet, a king-size Garden Sleep System™ bed, spacious work area with ergonomic Mirra® chairs designed by Herman Miller, LCD TVs, and sound-proof windows
• Restaurant with Show Kitchen & Beautiful View – The Restaurant pairs a buffet and grill specialties with stunning views over the Taunus mountain range
• Hilton Garden Inn Pavilion Pantry® – Provides healthy snacks, beverages and travel essentials 24 hours a day in the lobby
• Wellness Offerings – Sauna, steam room, and a 24-Hour Fitness Center
• Business Guest Savvy – 24-Hour business center and three contemporary meeting rooms with natural lighting

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An extensive renovation and upgrading programme for Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas HuaHin has been completed prior to the official adoption of the hotel’s new name on 1st January 2012.The renovated facilities include 100 rooms and suites in the Colonial Wing, the installation of a new fully equipped Health Club, and also of a new Kids Club.

The Railway Restaurant, which evokes the era of the 1920s when the hotel was originally built, has also undergone renovation to the decor and has a fresh new menu to complement the restaurant’s stylish new appearance.

The renovation and upgrading has been undertaken as part of the rebranding operation for the hotel’s change of name from Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas HuaHin to Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas HuaHin which will take effect on 1st January 2012.

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. All rooms include granite countertops and an urban design scheme with a mix of red, green and java-coloured furnishings. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the opening of the new Holiday Inn Express Atlanta I-85 Clairmont after a $1.4 million conversion from a Wingate by Wyndham hotel. The hotel underwent updates to the exterior, public areas and all guestrooms.

Guests will experience a comfortable and smart environment with innovative, preferred-guest upgrades to ensure a productive stay while travelling for business or leisure. The hotel’s complimentary Express Start® breakfast bar will feature a full range of breakfast items including a rotation of egg and meat selections, biscuits, yogurt, fruit and the brand’s proprietary cinnamon roll and Smart Roast® coffee.

The SimplySmart™ shower incorporates a proprietary Stay Smart™ Kohler showerhead, signature shower curtain with curved rod, upgraded 100 percent cotton terry towels and a custom line of cinnamon-scented bath products. Guests will enjoy the SimplySmart™ bedding collection where they will find new crisp fresh bedding, which features an attractive decorative throw, a medium-weight duvet blanket and soft 200 thread-count sheets.

The Holiday Inn Express Atlanta I-85 Clairmont features amenities such as free high-speed wireless Internet connections in guest rooms and the lobby as well as in the hotel’s 24-hour business centre. It also has a fitness centre and flexible meeting space.

The 80-room Holiday Inn Express Atlanta I-85 Clairmont is located northeast of downtown Atlanta at 2920 Clairmont Road, is just four miles from the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport and offers a shuttle service to the airport as well as other locations in the surrounding area. The hotel also features 1,600 square-feet of meeting space with seating for up to 100 people.

The hotel, located directly off of the I-85 Clairmont exit, is within a half mile of the Century Center corporate complex and a short distance from several higher education institutions, including Emory University, Mercer University, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and Oglethorpe University. It is also close to the Georgia Department of Labour, the U.S. Department of Revenue regional office, local offices of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the FBI.

The Holiday Inn Express Atlanta I-85 Clairmont is owned by BKNS and managed by Horizon Hospitality under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Manchester’s Holiday Inn Express on Oxford Road, which opened its doors for business in September 2010, has won an award for its unique design and received praise for making a positive contribution to the city. Situated on the doorstep of Manchester’s thriving city centre, on the busy Oxford Road corridor,the wedge shaped building has won the Brick Development Association’s award for Best Commercial Building.

The 147-bed hotel, built by Russells Construction, was nominated by Michelmersh Brick Holdings, manufacturer of the Blockleys Smooth Black brick which gives the 12-storey building its characteristic appearance.

Built on a triangular site, the exterior of the contemporary building has been designed to complement the industrial aesthetic of nearby structures, particularly the nearby railway arches of Oxford Road train station.

Jonathan Smith, general manager at Holiday Inn Express Oxford Road, said: “We are so proud that the hotel has received this high recognition for its statement design and hopefully it will become an iconic building in Manchester.

“Staff and partners have worked hard to create a contemporary setting for our guests, offering not only a perfect location, but also a comfortable, relaxed setting for both business and leisure.”

An urban oasis, worlds away from the hustle and bustle of South Beach, the Mayfair Hotel & Spa creates a tropical air of romanticism just steps from the “Grove,” as it’s known among those who favour and frequent it. As Miami’s tucked-away treasure, the Grove is known for funky art galleries, sidewalk cafes and sunset sailing on Biscayne Bay; one of the world’s most beautiful sailing bays.In 1985, the Grove’s masterful collaboration of the arts, architecture and society enticed architect Ken Treister to build the Mayfair Hotel & Spa, in which he combined the best features from the finest hotel in the world – from Claridges in London to Raffles in Singapore – in one sensuous, sophisticated place. The result is an extraordinary, cosmopolitan sharing of architectural influences and interior furnishings worldwide, most notably that of Antoni Gaudi. Round walls, blue-painted copper, bas-relief concrete sculptures and orchid-filled atriums embellish the art-infused hotel. Each guest suite is uniquely styled, featuring hand-carved mahogany doors and Japanese-style hot tubs on private patios.

Guests enter the Mayfair Hotel & Spa through a single door of richly carved mahogany wood from Honduras, setting the intimate tone inside. Rooms are organized on three floors around two open-to-the-sky atria landscaped with greenery and a Persian water garden of cascades and fountains. Each of the 179 suites is an artistic haven in itself, named for tropical birds and flowers from Viburnum and Jasmine to Ibis and Starling. Hand-carved mahogany doors reflect the suite’s theme as it ushers guests within. Odd-shaped walls surround bedrooms with elaborately carved headboards and separate sitting areas. Modelled after the private gardens in Japanese inns; soaking tubs overlooking trellises of ironwood from the Amazon grace every suite terrace behind the hotel’s bougainvillea-draped façade.

The hotel’s artful ambiance also resonates through its restaurant and lounge. Situated on the rooftop of the legendary Mayfair Hotel & Spa, the Rooftop Pool & Cabana Lounge is the vision of New York public relations guru Ron Berkowitz and New York restaurateur Josh Lebowitz. Enticing guests with panoramic views of Biscayne Bay partnered with Gaudi-inspired design and an unpretentious ambiance, the Rooftop is a chic, tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of South Beach. Among the 7,000 square feet of space, a floating cabana roof, teak & bubinga wood comprise the bar area while a serpentine bench built into the parapet winds around a fire feature and billowing white curtains enclose eight private cabanas with L-shaped sofas and flat screen TVs.

With 10,000 square feet of uncommonly creative function space – featuring waves of windows and sky-lit ballrooms – the hotel is ideal for small to large meetings, grand receptions and catered social events. The Crystal Ballroom welcomes up to 350 guests with floor-to-ceiling windows and spectacular views of the orchid garden while the Palm Terrace boasts an intimate setting surrounded by chaise lounges and lush greenery.

There was a myth amongst hoteliers and hotel groups for years that no hotel would work south of the River Thames in London. Daft really, when all the views are best looking northwards. Hotels like the Savoy sit on the site of royal palaces – and had views of the swamps, slums and dereliction that for many years formed the South Bank. Even Shakespeare is reputed to have stayed on the north bank and been rowed south across the river to his Globe theatre when needed.Not only was the South Bank originally swampland but it also housed the bear pits, brothels etc., and some say still does. In WW2 it was in the miss zone for the London Docks and suffered higher levels of bomb damage than North London. The County Hall escaped bomb damage but had the indignity of the County Architects Department building themselves a new brutalist office block extension in 1973 that was voted by Londoners the ugliest building in the capital. Fortunately this has been swept away, replaced by the new Park Plaza, one of the growing number of hotels now populating the South bank, following a lead created by Skandik and Novotel, because yes, it took foreign operators to show the potential that existed here.

The County Hall complex now houses an aquarium, the London Eye, the London Museum of Film, and a Premier Inn, but the star is the Marriott County Hall, which not only enjoys the best views across the river, amongst the best in London to my mind, but offers seven balcony suites with the most stunning views of all. The 200 bedrooms include 5 suites as well as the 7 balcony suites and most have views across the River (although not quite all – do check on booking).

Obviously the interiors are listed, and where new doorways have been created they faithfully follow the form of the 1920’s originals. The result is that guests enjoy some of the more beautiful 1920’s interiors which combine with some of the best views of London to create a special property.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the opening of the new Holiday Inn Express San Diego Sea World – Beach Area, which recently underwent a conversion from a Comfort Inn. The extensive $1.5 million renovation includes an expanded breakfast area, enhancements to the lobby and fitness centre and upgrades to the hotel’s 113 guest rooms.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. Business travellers will find large desks with ergonomic chairs, free local and toll free phones with private voicemail and complimentary newspapers.

Guests can also access free high-speed wireless Internet connections in their rooms and the lobby as well as in the hotel’s 24-hour business centre. There is also a fitness centre and outdoor pool.

Located at 4540 Mission Bay Drive, with convenient access to Interstate 5 and Interstate 8, the Holiday Inn Express San Diego Sea World – Beach Area is just seven miles from San Diego International Airport and three miles from Sea World. The hotel is also nearby San Diego’s Old Town, the San Diego Zoo and just a few miles from several businesses, including Raytheon and General Atomics.

The Holiday Inn Express San Diego Sea World – Beach Area is owned by Pinnacle Buena Park and managed by Excel Hotel Group, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Hilton Heathrow is saving money and helping the environment by turning waste into water. Waste collection and disposal costs are increasing at an alarming 20 percent per year and the Government’s landfill escalator is set to penalise waste generators even further in the coming years.As part of plans to achieve a ZERO waste to landfill objective, Hilton Heathrow has introduced an innovative solution for dealing with food waste by installing a Waste2Water digester.

When food is added to the chamber it turns the waste into grey water, which can be recycled rather than go to landfill. Micro-organisms digest the food and break down fats and oils before churning water out.

The introduction of the Waste2Water system has been led by facilities manager, Mark Hill, and senior purchasing manager, Andrew Earley, from the global purchasing team. Mark Hill said, “We are committed to both reducing unnecessary costs and reducing our carbon footprint. We are very excited that with the new Waste2Water system we are able to take the steps towards sending zero waste to landfill.”

The new system is expected to save in excess of £30,000 per annum in waste management costs. In addition to Hilton Heathrow’s Waste2Water initiative, the hotel also plans to change Halogen lighting to LED and install sensors in staff changing rooms and offices ensuring lights are turned off when areas are not in use.

In total Hilton Heathrow is expected to save 21 percent in consumption of heat, light and power in 2011 against 2010.

The Generation Companies, LLC (Generation), an extraordinary real estate developer, owner, receiver, asset manager and operator of extended-stay hotels, recently celebrated the opening and sale of its Home2 Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport/Convention Center in North Charleston, South Carolina. Generation was the developer for the project, handling the site identification and acquisition, design, entitlements, construction, purchasing and opening of the hotel, which was then sold to one of the industry’s top institutional owners. The Home2 Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport/Convention Center is an upper mid-tier, 122-room extended-stay hotel with a “hip and humble” design and decor. “The hotel has incredibly good access to I-26 and I-526, the Charleston International Airport and Air Force Base, the Charleston Convention Center, Coliseum and Performing Arts Center, the Tanger Outlet Mall and the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner plant,” Jeff Castleberry, Generation’s Director of Acquisitions, pointed out. “Generation conducted research to identify high performance markets during the downturn and discovered the Charleston market was doing well with a stable economy due to military and corporate support. The decision by Boeing to open the Dreamliner plant at that location was a great bonus, and further strengthened an already strong market.”

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Marriott International has recently opened the 171-room Courtyard by Marriott Moscow Paveletskaya. Centrally located in the heart of Moscow’s business district and within a five-minute walk of Paveletskaya railway station, the hotel offers easy access to Domodedovo International airport. The Courtyard by Marriott Moscow Paveletskaya is Marriott International’s sixth Courtyard in Russia.

Designed to help business travellers maximize their stay, the 171 spacious guest rooms are stylish and comfortable. Large well-lit work desks and ergonomic chairs allow guests to maintain productivity while on the road. Health conscious guests can also take advantage of the on-site fitness centre.

The lobby of the Courtyard Moscow Paveletskaya evokes a modern, contemporary feel and gives guests the space and functionality to both work and socialize.

For meetings and events, the hotel offers two meeting rooms with a total of 191 square meters of conference space.

Courtyard by Marriott hotels feature a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected and productive. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ desire for choice and control and allow them to use the public space and guest rooms to meet all of their needs while on the road. With more than 910 locations in 36 countries, Courtyard is Marriott’s largest brand; 200 additional Courtyard by Marriott hotels will open around the world over the next three years.

Marriott International introduced its Residence Inn by Marriott lodging brand for extended stay travellers in Bahrain, under a long term management agreement with International Trading and Investment Co. The 80-unit Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair, located in suburban Manama, welcomed its first guests on December 10th 2011. It is the first Residence Inn-branded property in the Middle East. The property features a total of 80 units, including 26 studios, 17 one-bedroom suites, 35 two-bedroom suites and two three-bedroom suites.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair offers a mix of spacious, stylish and residential-feel studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. A purposeful layout with designated zones allows guests to relax, work, eat, and sleep in their suites, while maintaining their routines at their own pace while travelling. Every suite features kitchens that come complete with full-sized refrigerators and stainless steel appliances that make living on the road easier for business travellers on long stays and families on leisure travel. With, expansive workspace and ample easily accessible outlets, and 42 inches flat screen TV, guests are fully equipped with and state-of-the-art technology. All the suites and lobby will have access to free High Speed Internet Access. Rates vary with length of stay.

Like its suites, the hotel’s public space is comfortable and multi-functional. The Cafe-Lounge serves a daily complimentary hot breakfast buffet while a “Grab and Go” kiosk/market offers snacks for purchase 24 hours a day. The new hotel also has a business centre that includes a 20-square meter meeting room for business or social gatherings.

Among the recreational amenities are an outdoor swimming pool and an 140-square meter health and leisure club with men’s/women’s lockers with separate sauna and whirlpool, the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair is located adjacent to the Marriott Executive Apartments in an attractive suburban neighbourhood of Manama that is popular with international visitors and upwardly mobile Bahrainis. Juffair is the site of Bahrain’s largest mosque, the huge domed Al Fateh Mosque, as well as the adjacent new National Library.

The 18th and largest hotel from Marriott International in Shanghai has opened its doors in the heart of the city centre. The 720 guest room Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre stands out as a flagship hotel for the Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand in China. Offering unmatched hospitality, an unbeatable location and state-of-the-art contemporary amenities, the 39-story hotel features five unique dining destinations and more than 2,000 square meters of dedicated event space. Ideally located on Xizang Middle Road and overlooking People’s Square – the official geographic centre of the city – Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre provides effortless access to the city’s finest cultural, entertainment and shopping attractions. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, the Bund, and People’s Square (including Metro Lines 1, 2 and 8) are all within close walking distance.

Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre’s 720 well-appointed guest rooms feature 42-inch LCD televisions with plug-and-play MP3 and laptop connectivity, iPod docking stations, high-speed wireless and wired Internet, ergonomic work space, luxury bedding and magnificent marble bathrooms. The expansive 37th-floor Executive Lounge, one of the largest in the city, provides an exclusive access for guests, with complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments and evening cocktails, plus made to order business amenities and premium personalized services.

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Fairfield Inn Los Cabos opened its doors and welcomed guests on the 8th December in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, offering a moderately priced lodging option in the heart of the popular resort destination.The 128-room hotel is Marriott International’s first property in Los Cabos and is located on the principal avenue of town, Lazaro Cardenas, an easy walk to the popular Médano beach and major tourist attractions such as El Arco, Lover’s Beach, the Puerto Paraíso Mall and Cabo Dolphins.

Located two minutes away from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, the Fairfield Inn Cabo San Lucas features innovative design and great service at a moderate price. From the hotel, guests can walk to the international tourist destination’s main beaches, historic areas and shopping.

The modern, five-story hotel has a comfortable, contemporary feel, with a spacious and inviting lobby, fitness centre, pool and a business centre open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The bright, airy guest rooms are equipped with LCD screen televisions, mini bar, and an in-room safe.

The Fairfield Inn Los Cabos is operated under a franchise agreement with Pulso Hotelero a subsidiary of Pulso Inmobiliario and management contract with Óptima Hoteles de México.

DoubleTree by Hilton has announced its latest UK location with the opening of the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport. Located just steps from the terminals and the express car park at Newcastle International Airport, the newly built, 179-room hotel is situated just 15 minutes from the North East’s most vibrant city centre. This tenth hotel opening in the UK and 25th European hotel opening for the upscale, full-service brand is part of a strong hotel development pipeline that is expected to lead to more than 25 additional DoubleTree by Hilton hotels and resorts opening in key city centre and leisure destinations across Europe during the next several months.DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport guests will benefit from the characteristic qualities found at more than 270 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels and resorts in 22 countries around the world, including the warm welcome of the brand’s legendary chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest upon check-in; an array of upscale amenities and guest services; the rewards of the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty programme; and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle Airport is operated by Cairn Hotel Group under a franchise license agreement with a subsidiary of Hilton Worldwide.

The hotel’s contemporary guest rooms feature complimentary wired or wireless high-speed internet access; soundproof windows; 37-inch, flat-panel televisions; spacious work desks; MP3-compatible clock radios; refreshing Crabtree & Evelyn Citron® bath and body products; and in-room tea and coffee making service. Guests will also enjoy an array of hotel services, including a well-equipped fitness centre, inviting coffee lounge, valet service, laundry service and gift shop.

In addition to modern amenities and a convenient location, the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport has more than 2,200 square feet of flexible meeting room space and an attractive ballroom space for events, meetings and functions of up to 100 guests. Support services include catering and banquet facilities, state-of-the-art audiovisual and connectivity solutions and a 24-hour business centre.

Guests to the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport will be tempted by Fratellos restaurant, which serves Italian cuisine and freshly prepared local favourites for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, a wide selection of beverages at the Colombus Bar and 24-hour room service dining.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the debut of The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa. Owned by the Tourism Development & Investment Company, the Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa marks the launch of the Westin brand in the emirate. The hotel features 172 premium guest rooms, several restaurants and lounges, a Heavenly Spa® by Westin and state-of-the-art meeting facilities.The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa boasts a prime location along the fairways of the championship Abu Dhabi Golf Course, which underwent extensive upgrades in January 2011 and is managed by Troon Golf, the world-renowned luxury golf course management company. Additionally, the Westin is the only hotel in Abu Dhabi to offer sweeping views of the putting green from all guest rooms. Close to the heart of down town, the newly constructed hotel is just a ten-minute drive from the exhibition centre and 20 minutes from the Corniche.

The sensory-rich environment at Westin offers sets a welcoming tone. Upon entering the lobby, guests will begin to breathe more easily as they are greeted with soothing elements like relaxed lighting, natural botanical beauty and stimulating music. The hotel décor features neutral tones, water features and a mix of stone and wood elements. The Westin Heavenly Spa consists of six treatment rooms and an outdoor relaxation area in a tranquil garden setting. Guests can experience a range of Heavenly packages and specially-developed treatments targeted at golfers such as the Golfers Recovery.

Guestrooms, which include executive suites and a presidential suite, are all outfitted with the world-renowned Westin Heavenly Bed® featuring lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly Bath® creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brands Heavenly Shower® Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travellers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

Other signature Westin amenities include the brands SuperfoodsRX menu designed to treat guests to exceptional food combinations rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Guests can also choose from 10 varieties of JING tea with recommendations from a tea sommelier at The Lounge, where they can enjoy sweeping views of the golf course. Other dining options include an all-day dining restaurant Fairways, a Moroccan restaurant Agadir, as well as an English-style bar, poolside restaurant and bar and cocktail lounge. The hotel also offers extensive meeting facilities comprised of three ballrooms, a conference centre, board rooms, and a business centre, as well as and catering for up to 400 people.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

After six months and a 48 million dollar renovation, Marriott Hotels & Resorts iconic property, Frenchman’s Reef Marriott Resort, has officially re-opened its doors. Long considered one of the finest resorts in the U.S. Virgin Islands, visitors have been waiting in anticipation for the property’s grand re-opening, which was marked with a celebration on November 10, 2011, attended by island officials, Marriott executives and VIP guests and community members.The $48 million renovation completely transformed the property inside and out. In addition to giving the exterior of the resort’s main tower a new, fresh look, the resort underwent a full redesign of all guest rooms, the addition of a new state-of-the art spa and spa pool, larger fitness centre, a full service salon complete with hair and manicure/pedicure stations, new restaurants and menu concepts, expanded lounge areas, a completely redesigned infinity pool with kids zone and the addition of an adults only pool.

Among the most notable of the hotel’s new amenities is the newly designed Lazule Sea Spa. The spa features 4,000 square feet of luxury facilities including seven treatment rooms, couples room, massage cabanas, and the exclusive spa pool and couples relaxation room.

Sitting in a premiere location, the resort’s 302 newly renovated guest rooms offer magnificent views of Charlotte Amalie Harbour and easy access to Morning Star Beach. The re-designed Aqua Terra Oceanfront Grill and Aqua Terra Lounge, just two of the resort’s nine restaurant and lounge offerings, also offer spectacular vistas of Charlotte Amalie Harbour through its impressive floor to ceiling windows.

“The Reef’s” renovation also introduces guests to new, contemporary design in all guest rooms, which boasts Caribbean elegant décor, rain style shower heads, ergonomic workspaces, LCD high-definition televisions and Marriott’s signature bedding, which includes 300 thread count sheets, down comforters, thicker mattresses with plush toppers and fluffier pillows.

Infused with the DNA of W Hotels, the 296-room Aloft Bangkok-Sukhumvit 11 caters to the modern traveller seeking an eclectic, unique experience. With urban-inspired design, Aloft guestrooms feature loft-like decor with soaring nine-foot ceilings, Aloft’s signature platform beds, oversized showerheads and BlissÓ Spa products. And, to maximize both work and play, each room offers free Wi-Fi and a plug n’ play connectivity station for charging all electronics and syncing with the 42” LCD HDTV. Incorporating industrial design elements throughout the hotel, Aloft features a buzzing bar scene in the open lounge, a grab-and-go café, a full-service fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool. For Aloft, the goal is to re-imagine the hotel model by creating a concept that encourages guests to spend more time in public areas, using innovative and surprising materials to focus on smart design solutions. The free flowing energy throughout the hotel, modern design and mood lighting set the tone for a diverse and stylish destination, day and night. This being the first Aloft opened in Thailand, local architecture firm Hassel added customized touches to the space so it would blend with the local culture and market. As the hotel accommodates a plethora of business travellers, the hotel’s meeting space is a welcome feature. An additional exclusive amenity to this Aloft location is access to an all-day, full-service dining restaurant on site featuring fresh local seafood. Aloft Bangkok-Sukhumvit 11 will bring a refreshing change to the hotel scene in Bangkok.

Also available for guests at Aloft is Crave – an all day restaurant conducive to a lively atmosphere featuring delicious lunch and dinner buffets offering local seafood and international favourites. The restaurant stocks over 3,000 bottles of wine from more than 250 labels in its wine cellar – available to order via digital menu tablets.

For business guests who want to enjoy a fun and productive experience, the hotel offers over 265 square meters of meeting space and pre-function area. Finally, Aloft’s guest can access to Bangkok’s trendiest clubs – Bed Supperclub and QBar for a-free entry.

Set to be Shenzhen’s most prestigious address and the new social and business center for Shenzhen, The St. Regis Shenzhen is geared up for its opening on 18th December. In conjunction with its opening, The St. Regis Shenzhen will be introducing the new Yan Mary signature cocktail, a uniquely Shenzhen take on the classic St. Regis Bloody Mary in the tallest bar in Shenzhen. The St. Regis Shenzhen is located on the top 28 floors of the Kingkey 100, a stunning 100-story tower of steel and glass that is the tallest building in Shenzhen and the eighth tallest in the world. With its prestigious landmark address, iconic setting, bespoke services, and destination restaurants and lounges, the St. Regis Shenzhen is destined to become the new social and business center for Shenzhen.

The St. Regis Shenzhen seamlessly blends Old World elegance with modern convenience and luxury. Towering from the 73rd to the 100th floor, the hotel features 257 guest rooms and 40 suites, sumptuously appointed with thoroughly modern amenities and spectacular views, providing travelers with a unique luxurious sanctuary amidst the hectic urban setting. The top floors of the tower offer a diverse selection of signature restaurants and unique lounges, as well as the five-star Iridium Spa on the 75th floor featuring an indoor swimming pool with stunning, birds-eye views of the city below.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the opening of Hilton Jumeirah Hotel Apartment in Dubai, UAE, Hilton Worldwide’s third property in the city. Located on Jumeirah Beach and The Walk, the popular beachfront avenue of boutiques, al fresco restaurants and modern day Arabic culture, Hilton Jumeirah Hotel Apartment is linked via footbridge to Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, with both properties sharing a wide range of facilities and services.

Hilton Jumeirah Hotel Apartment is perfect for short and long-term stays for leisure and corporate guests alike. The property’s 364 contemporary studios, chic open plan duplex lofts and stylish two, three or four bedroom apartments are each appointed with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, lounge area and wireless internet.

The apartments also offer an all day market-style restaurant, relaxed café and stunning roof top terrace as well as outdoor pool and gym. In addition the Resort’s private beach, pool, spa and nine restaurants and bars are easily accessible to guests. For business travellers, the property shares the Resort’s large ballroom, four meeting rooms and executive lounge whilst a separate business centre is available for the exclusive use of the apartments. Guests can also make use of the shared gardens, water sports centre, kids club, playground, shaded kids pool and babysitting services.

Over five years in the making, The Grand Heritage Doha Hotel & Spa, is now a reality and has already become a style setter as the super luxury hotel property in Doha, Qatar where the pace of new hotel openings reflects the city’s emergence as a world-class travel destination. This new Chateau-inspired, 137-room, five-star hotel’s arrival in the marketplace is spot on and in time to play a pivotal role as Doha completes its transformation – from commercial and shipping centre to a world-class destination for tony travellers and a sophisticated social centre with its own unique brand.

The developer, Sheikh Hamad Al-Thani, wanted the property to be a defining landmark for world travellers and well-heeled sophisticates – an iconic property that stands out on the ever changing skyline, distinguishing Doha from neighbouring Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

By all measure Sheikh Hamad has succeeded. Since the recent opening, The Grand Heritage’s occupancy rate has become the envy of Doha’s hoteliers. Moreover, Sheikhs and leading socialites living in the area have fully embraced the property making it their own informal “private” club. This iconic property was created by J/Brice Design International.

The Grand Heritage was created in the architectural style of a fine European country home while respecting regional aesthetics by incorporating distinctively Arabian themes into the design. In terms of setting, The Grand Heritage excites all the senses; sight – touch – taste, within the property and the interior environment has a distinct charm which is reinforced by the well-balanced dimensioning of the spaces and fluidity of the plan.

Sheikh Hamad recognized the need to create a dramatic setting or sense of place for the Grand Heritage, and has committed generous funding for exterior landscaping and gardens reminiscent of Versailles to enhance the arrival experience.

As a practical matter, every guest room is accessorized with 40-inch flat screen TVs, complimentary wireless Internet access, Nespresso coffee and tea machines, and laptop compatible safety deposit box.

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Marking twenty one years of hospitality in Sydney’s most sought after waterfront location, Park Hyatt Sydney will soon reveal a spectacular rebuilt residence, pairing an unrivalled location with an unrivalled hotel. In the most dramatic transformation of Sydney’s harbour frontage, Park Hyatt Sydney has closed its rooms, spa, restaurant and bars for most of 2011 to undergo a complete rebuild.When Park Hyatt Sydney re-opens its doors it will feature three rooftop suites built on a new fourth level. This new level boasts, just shy of 360-degree, views spanning Sydney’s iconic Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge and includes the city’s largest Sydney Suite at 350 square meters, offering the most discerning guest, Sydney’s absolute finest.

Importantly Park Hyatt Sydney honours its’ heritage by ensuring original Sydney Sandstone and local woods are incorporated in the rebuild. The hotel has commissioned a number of Australian artists including sculptors, painters and photographers for artworks designed especially for the new hotel. The twenty one years that Park Hyatt Sydney have called their Circular Quay pier home, is respected and celebrated throughout the hotels’ redesign.

Australian hotel design firm, BARstudio are creating a new intimate and stylish interior, featuring an art gallery of interior pieces, including artefacts, books and artworks on the bedroom shelves and walls in all 155 bedrooms, and unique items throughout the hotel. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto spacious private balconies for most guestrooms, which no other accommodation in Sydney can provide. Custom-designed lighting and new natural tone furnishings and fixtures enhance the indoor-outdoor lifestyle that Park Hyatt Sydney observe.

The multi-million dollar renovation includes a total reconfiguration of the low rise serpentine designed building, introducing a new and larger day spa, restaurant, bars, private dining rooms, enhanced and larger conference facilities, gymnasium and recreational spaces in addition to amongst Sydney’s largest guest rooms.

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The Crystal City Marriott, one of Crystal City’s first hotels, has recently completed an award-winning redesign that adds sleek polish and modern updates to its lobby, including the launch of a new American tavern, BELL20. The extensive renovation marks the first stage of the hotel’s multi-million dollar plan to revitalize its public and meeting space, an investment by the hotel’s owners, Vornado Realty. The renovation includes the new design for Marriott Hotels & Resorts lobbies that offer guests spaces for working, dining and socializing.

“This renovation is the beginning of exciting things to come,” says Scott McClinton, general manager of the Crystal City Marriott. “We know our guests want comfort and style, we have delivered that and more. We look forward to welcoming our longtime and new guests alike to discover our transformed space.”

Cauhaus Design, in Frederick, Md., replaced the old world style lobby with a new look that blends nature with modern technology. To create a sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere, Cauhaus Design used visually stimulating elements such as textured walls, warm earth tones, marble floors, leather chairs, and natural materials including stone and reclaimed wood on the walls and plank top communal tables. Other recycled materials such as natural tile accents, recycled 55 gallon drums, and hammered metals are used as artwork throughout the transformed space.

The welcoming reception desk has been redesigned to make it easier for guests and hotel staff to interact at check-in. Three new pods made of dark wood and stone have been added to allow business and leisure travelers to check in and check out with ease. With free WiFi and electrical outlets throughout the lobby, guests can plug-in and work on their laptops or kick back and relax in front of HDTVs at the lobby bar. In addition, semi-private seating nooks full of plush pillows, allow guests to socialize or work in an intimate environment.

The new bar and restaurant, BELL20, offers straight forward comfort food and pub classics. The menu offers daily soups, unique burgers, sandwich standards, salads, and a variety entrées. Ideal for socializing with work colleagues by day and impromptu gatherings at night, the energetic BELL20 bar offers a refreshing cocktail menu, over 30 bottled beers, wines by the glass and a number of hand-crafted micro-brews from Alexandria’s own Port City Brewing Company.

Advancements in technology and changes in consumer attitudes towards the bathroom will dramatically influence product design, development and installation

An independent report into the future of the bathroom by the Future Laboratory has revealed the paradox our bathroom is set to become in ten years time. Commissioned by Europe’s leading bathroom provider, Ideal Standard International, the report looks into the features, products, and services the industry can expect to see in the next decade and the diverse ways in which the bathroom will change going forward.The report has been based on research conducted by The Future Laboratory, which surveyed 1,500 homeowners on their current attitudes and future demands for bathroom solutions as well as the type of technology being developed in response. The research found that consumer attitudes towards shared and private space are changing and that the bathroom of the future will adapt to suit people’s moods and lifestyles.

Ten million people in the UK people say that their work/life balance has suffered as a result of the financial crisis[1]. Four in 10 (41%) UK consumers use the bathroom as a place to relax. The bathroom has become a refuge from the pressures of modern life, ‘a sanctuary and a place to escape’, comments Ideal Standard’s Non-Executive Design Director, Robin Levien.

The Future Laboratory research shows that consumers spend 13 days a year in the bathroom – however, it is the last room in the house to respond to social changes. The advancement of digital technologies is set to affect beauty and grooming rituals, and the way in which consumers manage both our health and the environment around them – and product design and installation will have to adapt to these advancements.

Installation methods, which are common place today, will be a thing of the past as we see bathroom solutions becoming more intelligent, combining storage with products. For example, walls with ‘memories’ and membrane-like materials that allow 3D shapes to be summoned from flat surfaces creating storage and space.

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[1] According to a survey by Cornwall Development Company

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its second hotel in Nanjing. Hilton Nanjing Riverside, the second Hilton property to open in Nanjing in less than a month, is located on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River – Asia’s longest river, and is seven kilometres from the Central Business District and 45 kilometres from the Nanjing Lukou International Airport.Martin Rinck, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide, said, “The presence of Hilton Worldwide in Nanjing is growing with the opening of our second hotel in the city within a month. The emergence of Nanjing as an important transportation hub in Eastern China and the lower Yangtze River area is the reason behind our decision to operate a second property here.”

The hotel features a contemporary style with 411 spacious guest rooms and suites, many of which have a private balcony with superb Yangtze River views, spacious bathrooms and walk-in closets, along with generous work spaces and high-speed internet access.

Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotel & Resorts, said, “With panoramic views over the Yangtze River and extensively landscaped grounds, this city hotel also has a unique urban-resort feel to it, which adds another dimension to the signature Hilton hospitality that guests familiar with our brand have come to recognize and expect.”

Hilton Nanjing Riverside also boasts stunning conference and event facilities with 16 versatile meeting rooms and a unique oval-shaped 1,100-square meter pillar-less Grand Ballroom. There is also a business centre and the convenience of wireless internet access throughout the hotel. Recreational facilities include a health club, an indoor swimming pool and an on-site spa with six treatment rooms.

In addition, with four exciting new outlets, Hilton Nanjing Riverside is poised to claim a spot as a local dining destination. The River Café, an all-day dining restaurant, combines favourites from Western and Asian cuisines, while East-West Grill offers a delightful combination of Asian and Western grilled food with an open show-kitchen and expansive views of the Yangtze River. Ming Xuan is the beautiful Chinese restaurant located at the top floor of the hotel and named after the famous Ming Dynasty. It showcases the best of Cantonese and Huaiyang cuisines with 12 private dining rooms. Otherwise, cocktails can be enjoyed in the comfortable ambience of the Flow-Lobby Bar.

Westin Hotels & Resorts has announced that The Westin Xian will open December 1, 2011, 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 of rest and relaxation, The Westin Xian will offer total renewal just steps away from the ancient city’s myriad cultural attractions, restaurants, and shops. The Westin Xian will also be 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. With its opening, The Westin Xian will offer refined Chinese hospitality in a storied location, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing and renewing travel experience.Located in the Qujiang Tourism district, the most upscale area of the city and once the site of the Royal Summer Garden of the Tang Dynasty, The Westin Xian sits directly opposite the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built over 1,000 years ago. The eastern terminus of the Silk Road, Xian is home to an ancient walled inner city which protects the famed Bell and Drum Towers. A short 30 kilometers east of the city sits the renowned Terracotta Army vaults which date back more than 2,000 years and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel is just minutes from the train station and 40km from the Xi’an Xianyang International Airport.

An urban retreat dedicated to a holistic experience that revives mind, body, and spirit, The Westin Xian will feature 329 rooms and 32 one- to two-bedroom apartments. Upon welcome, guests to The Westin Xian will immediately be 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.

The Westin Xian will also offer 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; Five Sen5es 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; Daily Treats is ideal for a quick coffee and light bites such as a gourmet sandwich; and Lobby Lounge, the place to relax and elevate your senses either day or night with an end-of-day cocktail or organic squeezed juice. Demonstrating The Westin Xian’s dedication to wellness, a SuperFoods Rx menu will be offered throughout the day featuring enticing, healthy food options made from ingredients that are considered the best for fighting disease and enhancing health.

Guests will be invited to recharge in the WestinWORKOUT Gym, reenergize in the indoor swimming pool, and pamper themselves in the Heavenly Spa by Westin. The hotel will also be the first Westin in the world to feature its own museum with a remarkable collection of over 2,000 artifacts on display, including an exquisite grouping of over 80 Chinese mural paintings, the world’s only suit of armor crafted entirely from gold, and a rare stone Buddha head which measures nearly one meter high.
With more than 3,300 square meters of meeting space and three banquet spaces, The Westin Xian will provide a new and exceptional destination for events. The hotel takes a holistic approach by offering wide array of thoughtful services, including Clutter-Free Meetings and relaxing in-room massages. A state-of-the-art business center and in-room wireless high speed internet access are also designed to meet the needs of today’s business traveler.

Recognized worldwide as the ultimate Las Vegas entertainment destination, MGM Grand MGM Grand has revealed designs for its new rooms and suites.

Now underway, the $160 million remodel includes all 3,570 guest rooms and 642 suites in the hotel’s main tower and is expected to conclude by September 2012. The initial set of redesigned rooms will be complete by the end of November 2011.Grand Guest Rooms
Featuring warm, yet vibrant designs and colour palettes with contemporary furnishings, the new room and suite designs create comfortable and functional spaces within a sophisticated setting.

Created by the talented team at MGM Resorts International Design, the remodelled Grand King and Grand Queen guest rooms showcase a stylish combination of interior finishes and accents, creating a modern sensibility with an inviting ambiance.

Warm earth tones throughout each room set the stage for a relaxing environment, with splashes of vibrant colours carefully integrated into plush fabrics, striking artwork and playful carpet patterns. The Grand King rooms feature a tangerine and bronze palette while the Grand Queen rooms incorporate fuchsia, platinum and charcoal to create an inspired colour expression.

Floor-to-ceiling headboard walls, accented by patterned fabric blocks above each bed, are flanked by mirrors on both sides, creating a dramatic visual as soon as guests enter the room.

Providing a streamlined focal point within each room, the dresser features spacious storage as well as a fully stocked mini-bar and media connectivity hub. Located above this centrepiece is a flat-screen HD television, openly displayed and visible throughout the room.

For guests who come to play but also need to work, the new rooms feature a spacious desk with ergonomic seating and task lighting. For those moments of relaxation, either two plush armchairs or a sofa will be placed adjacent to the window, to welcome in natural light by day and view the bright city lights by night.

New energy-efficient lighting and lamps will be carefully positioned throughout creating a residential feel with convenient, functional details including an electrical outlet at each base for easy bedside and tableside recharging.

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The Rezidor Hotel Group announces the Park Inn by Radisson Donestsk. It is the very first Park Inn by Radisson hotel in Ukraine and a common project with Esta Holding, the country’s largest investor in the real estate sector. The mid-market property is being developed on the basis of the “Kiev” hotel located on Pushkin Boulevard in the center of Donetsk.“The Park Inn Donetsk will be the first internationally managed 3-star hotel in Ukraine bringing the expertise and high standards of affordable accommodation to the hospitality market,” commented Dejan Djordjevic, Managing Director of the Hospitality Business, Esta Holding.

The Park Inn by Radisson Donetsk has a prime location in the city centre: Pushkin Boulevard is the city’s main pedestrian street and home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and monuments. Across the street is the recently re-designed Shcherbakov Park, which hosts events and festivals (including the “Fan Zone” during Euro 2012). The main square, Opera and Ballet theatre, large-scale shopping malls and numerous corporate offices are in the immediate area. The hotel is already under construction and will open in Q2 2012, with 175 guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, meeting rooms, gym and outdoor parking.

Donetsk has large mineral resources and is one of the most economically important cities in the Ukraine. Moreover, Donetsk’s new “Donbass Arena” will host five key matches during UEFA Euro 2012 (hosted jointly by Poland and Ukraine) including the semi-final.

On the 12th October, Travelodge announced it has opened its 486th hotel, a stone’s throw from the Bank of England. The London Bank Travelodge, a 75-room grade ll listed property represents an investment of £7.5 million and has already proven to be one of the most successful new hotel opening’s in the Company’s 26 year history. In the first few days of trading, Travelodge has reported a record level of bookings at its latest opening. The majority of reservations have come from City Workers who have taken advantage of Travelodge’s low cost rooms and booked ahead in preparation of the Christmas party season.

The new London Bank Travelodge is also the start of a £223 million expansion programme for London’s biggest hotel chain – with the opening of 26 hotels scheduled over the next 24 months. This investment will create 710 new jobs across the capital.

Ten of these new hotels will be opened in the next ten months before the 2012 Games start. Many of these new properties will be located within walking distance of the venues where the Games will be taking place. This includes a 188-room Travelodge hotel in Stratford – which is just minutes away from the Olympic Park and a 131-room property at London Excel where the boxing, fencing, weightlifting and wrestling events will take place.

Listed below are details of the ten hotels Travelodge is opening before the start of the Olympic Games:

1. London Cricklewood
2. London Edmonton
3. London Stratford
4. London Twickenham
5. London Crystal Palace
6. London Teddington
7. London Greenwich West
8. London Balham
9. London Enfield
10. London Excel Centre

Super yachts are considered to be by some the 7* star sailing hotels of the sea. The possibility to sail away from the coast and still enjoy the luxury that comes from staying within a top hotel is hugely attractive to this lucrative market. Crystal Caviar´s Yacht division has, within the last year, finished an installation of chandeliers and staircase artwork onboard one of the super yachts, the TALISMAN C.

Generally it is thought that chandeliers do not yield to the yacht market. People think they are fragile, not seaworthy and will not withstand salty environments and vibrations. Since the structure of chandeliers is completely different and difficult to ordinary pendant lighting, they require sophisticated engineering in order to protect the fragile crystal parts. However, with some modifications they can be converted to suit the yacht market and create an impressive design statement.

Crystal Caviar are specialised in custom lighting within moving objects such as yachts, aircrafts and trains and they relished the opportunity to create a chandelier for the Talisman C. Developed over a number of years, Crystal Caviar‘s specialist knowledge has been applied to fittings used in hotels in earthquake zones and sea coast areas with high corrosive environment. Crystal Caviar‘s know-how comes from centuries of proven technology and tradition of Bohemian crystal production.

How do you design and build a chandelier for a yacht?

The owner or designer usually has a certain concept of lighting. They know roughly the size and the style of the chandelier required, whether that is classical, art deco, flower theme, Mother Nature theme, contemporary or ultramodern. The chandelier usually complements the style of the whole space, the colours and textures on other surfaces and the atmosphere.

The chandelier on board the Talisman C was done in corporation with H2 Yacht Design. It is a beautiful 8m glass sculpture installed in the stairwell. It consists of hundreds of crystal, amber and silver glass bubbles ‘floating’ in the air, resembling the bubbles rising from the seabed. The most difficult part was the sky window above the sculpture, so the whole sculpture had to be fixed in between floors without a central hanging point. We used fibre optics mixed with conventional lighting to produce this stunning result.

Mantra Group has defied the challenging tourism and leisure conditions in Queensland in 2011, achieving an increase in revenue per available room (RevPar) across the Queensland network in the past 12 months of 3.74% and an overall revenue increase of 9.06%. The positive results follow a successful spring school holiday period which saw a 3.8% increase in occupancy and a 4.7% increase in RevPar. The addition of Peppers Broadbeach to the network was a major contributor to the positive results proving to be a popular choice with families taking advantage of the quality and space provided by the superior apartment product.

The results reflect a 3.9% increase in accommodation bookings in Queensland in the past twelve months, indicating a resurgence in leisure travel in the Sunshine State.

Mantra Group is the largest accommodation provider in Queensland with over 50 Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree resorts and apartments throughout all major leisure destinations from the Gold Coast to Port Douglas.

Mantra Group CEO Bob East attributed a significant part of the recent success to a comprehensive marketing campaign headed by new Mantra Ambassador, tennis great, Pat Rafter.

“We’ve added two properties to our network – the brand new Peppers Broadbeach on the Gold Coast and BreakFree Rainbow Shores on the Sunshine Coast –and the increased inventory is being met with the demand we had anticipated,” Mr East said.

“Queensland – after all its challenges – has certainly returned to being a holiday destination of choice for Australians.

“We are continuing to investigate opportunities to grow our portfolio in Australia in both the leisure and corporate accommodation sphere.”

The Mantra Group portfolio offers the most comprehensive selection of hotels, apartments and resorts in Queensland and based on the results to date, Mr East said the Group is confident of a buoyant Christmas holiday period.

The Football Association, Hilton Worldwide and construction company Bowmer & Kirkland have recently celebrated the topping out of the Hilton and Hampton by Hilton hotels at St. George’s Park – the landmark new national football centre located near Burton Upon Trent. The event signals the conclusion of the exterior construction of St George’s Park which is expected to open in summer 2012. Senior executives from Hilton Worldwide, alongside representatives from The FA and the world of football, celebrated the topping out by placing a commemorative engraved stone on the roof of the new Hilton St. George’s Park which will operate alongside the Hampton by Hilton St. George’s Park.

St. George’s Park will feature a full-service and upscale Hilton hotel with 142 bedrooms, as well as an economy 86-bedroom Hampton by Hilton hotel. Hilton St.George’s Park will offer conference and banqueting space of more than 1,400 square feet and house a lecture theatre and flexible seminar rooms including a library.

Hilton and Hampton by Hilton St. George’s Park form part of a £100mllion investment led by The FA, across a 330-acre site in the heart of the National Forest. St. George’s Park builds on Hilton Worldwide’s presence at U.K. sporting grounds, with Doubletree by Hilton Milton Keynes housed in the MK Dons stadium and Hilton Wembley also due to open adjacent to Wembley Stadium next year.

The hotels will be available for use by leisure guests either using the park’s facilities or visiting the area’s local attractions; corporate guests visiting the hotels on business and for events; those recuperating from medical care in the Spire run medical facility; local residents utilising the hotel food and beverage options; and sporting related organisations using the sporting facilities including the England senior football teams.

Travelodge strengthens its presence in Spain by opening its fourth hotel in Valencia and starts building work on a new 250-room hotel in Barcelona Rambla Poble Nou. Both hotels represent a combined investment of £40 million and will create 66 new jobs. The new Valencia Travelodge is located at the airport – which is Spain’s eighth busiest airport and annually serves 6.5 million passengers. The 116-room hotel represents a £10 million investment in Spain’s third largest city and has created 16 new jobs. Rooms are available from 20 Euros.

The Barcelona Rambla Poble Nou Travelodge which is scheduled to open in spring 2013 is located in the heart of the business district (at @22 Barcelona). The ten storey hotel represents a £30 million investment and will create 50 new jobs.

These two properties have boosted Travelodge’s Spanish portfolio to five hotels and 602 rooms. The budget hotel chain already has an 83-room hotel in Barcelona Hospitalet and two hotels in Spain’s capital city Madrid – which include a 74-room property at Torrelaguna and a 79-room hotel in Las Rozas.

The Spanish tourism industry accounts for over 10.5% of the GDP and its growth has been more positive than the overall Spanish economy with a year on year growth of 1.4%

With over 2.5million visitors annually visiting Valencia, the new Travelodge hotel has got off to a flying start with a high level of bookings. Room rates start from 20 Euros. Each room has en-suite facilities, a luxury king Size bed, air conditioning / heating, a flat screen TV and Internet connection. The hotel also has a Bar Café which offers a 24-hour food and drink service.

With the opening of Valencia Airport Travelodge, has 485 hotels and 34,342 rooms (470 hotels UK, 11 Ireland and 4 Spain). The budget hotel chain plans to grow its estate to 1,100 hotels and 1000,000 rooms by 2025.

Marriott International, Inc. celebrated its new multiple-brand Doha City Centre complex with an exclusive event featuring an RLife LIVE performance by emerging artist Hamdan al Abri. The celebration welcomed the 257-room Renaissance Doha City Centre Hotel, 204-room Courtyard by Marriott Doha City Centre and 123-unit Marriott Executive Apartments Doha City Centre – the first of the three Marriott brands — to Qatar.All three properties are located within two 48-storey towers located in West Bay across from Qatar Financial Centre, adjacent to the Doha City Centre Mall, featuring more than 340 shops and attractions, and just 15 minutes from Doha International Airport. Each hotel has its own unique look and feel, while sharing many floors within the complex, including three expansive lobbies, nine restaurants and bars, 1200 square meters of meeting space, a world-class Vitality Zone health club and Marriott International’s signature Saray Spa, known for offering traditional Middle Eastern treatments.

Renaissance Doha City Centre Hotel

The 257-room Renaissance Doha City Centre Hotel stands out with its colourful fabrics, bold design and indigenous touch brought to life through artwork from Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani’s collection of cultural and historical art. The Renaissance Doha City Centre Hotel is equipped with the finest amenities and innovative technology, boasting 17 meeting rooms across 1,200 square meters (12,917 square feet). Embracing various local elements – from design to cuisine – the hotel provides visitors with a unique environment as well as comforts in forms of luxurious bedding, a Club Lounge, rooftop pool, Business Centre, high-speed internet and exclusive amenities. RLife LIVE, a signature program for Renaissance Hotels which launched in October 2010, is highly regarded as a leading entertainment hospitality program dedicated to providing guests and local patrons with the opportunity to engage with musical talent on-site at various hotels around the world.

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The Hilton Olympia hotel was a large-scale project, made up of multiple phases. The brief was a complete refurbishment of the ground floor public reception areas, first floor bar and restaurant to create a flowing, relaxed space.The initial phase saw the removal of the escalator, which had been the only way to approach the first floor bar. By replacing the escalator with a modern, glass staircase a greater visual impact has been created and the first floor bar is now a destination venue. The bar, which is distinctly visible from Kensington High Street, has an organic feel to it – a deliberate contrast to the orthogonal lines of the building.

designLSM restyled the restaurant interior applying a fresh colour palette, revamped the lighting and introduced a bespoke, display screen. New, decorative lighting was fitted and a private dining room area created.

Simon Spiteri, Architectural Director comments; “Not all structural changes were made at ground level due to a limited budget and timescale constraints. However, the overall brief has been answered and the end result is a distinctive and timeless piece of interior design which flows throughout the reception, bar and lounge areas.”