Jetsettersblog

Boasting twelve years food and beverage experience at sister resort Hyatt Regency Coolum; General Manager Patrick Hardy is pleased to welcome Michael Dawkins to the role of Food & Beverage Director, Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove.

“Michael has an unprecedented knowledge of Food & Beverage in a hotel environment and we are extremely pleased to have him join our management team here at Sanctuary Cove,” said Patrick.

As Director of Food & Beverage, Michael will overlook all aspects of food and beverage for the hotel including The Fireplace; Cove Cafe; The Verandah Bar; The Pool House; Room service, Functions & events; and the Hyatt owned Masthead Bakery in The Marine Village.

Michael spent 12 years at Hyatt Regency Coolum in various roles including Banquets Manager, Assistant Food & Beverage Director and Director of Catering. Previous roles included Restaurant Manager at Palm Cove Travelodge in Cairns; Room service Supervisor at Jupiter’s Casino; Banquets Supervisor at Travelodge Surfers Paradise; and Restaurant Manager at Lowwood Hotel in England.

Michael will be using his skills and knowledge to further enhance the already premium dining experience offered at this five-star resort.

For more information on corporate travel to Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove, visit www.sanctuarycove.regency.hyatt.com .

‘Valentino, Retrospective: Past/Present/Future’ is a major exhibition exploring the work of the celebrated Italian fashion house Valentino, known the world over for its sophisticated, timeless design and glamorous clientele.

Exclusive to Brisbane, the exhibition is showing until November 12, and features a stunning array of haute couture designs tracing Valentino’s career from the 1959 opening of his fashion house in Rome to the presentation of his final collection in January 2008.

Also included are recent designs from the house of Valentino – highlighting the future direction of this most esteemed fashion house.

Designs from house of Valentino have been coveted and worn by European royalty, Hollywood celebrities and members of high society the world over.

This magnificent exhibition includes garments worn by stars such as Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman, Julia Roberts, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor and more.

Exhibition designed and realised by Les Arts Décoratifs, Paris, with the assistance of the Valentino fashion house. Organised in Australia by the Queensland Art Gallery and Art Exhibitions Australia.

Hilton Brisbane has partnered with the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art to bring you this fashionable package – Valentino Minibreak including deluxe accommodation for two, breakfast the following morning in The Atrium and two tickets to the exhibition, all this from $270 per room per night, twin share*

Heighten your experience and upgrade to our revitalised Executive Plus Rooms for an additional $140 including access to the lounge, breakfast the following morning, refreshments throughout the day and pre-dinner drinks and canapés.

To make your reservation phone 1300 445 866 and quote PR44VM

or visit www.hilton.com/brisbaneoffers

*Subject to availability, valid 7 August – 14 November 2010

Call them sexist, but one Brisbane hotel is giving female guests preferential treatment – by offering them access to their very own, gorgeously girlie “Ladies Only” floor.

In what is believed to be an Australian first, the Best Western Portal Hotel is one of a handful of international hotels catering for the growing number of independent female travellers who demand luxury and security in equal measure.

According to owner Georgie Woods, the decision to ban boys – from one floor at least – was based on demand within the market. “These days, women account for around 40 percent of Australia’s business travellers – that’s a lot of ladies travelling alone, often in unfamiliar cities without a good working knowledge of the area,” Ms Woods said.

It’s not surprising, then, to learn that 60 percent of women identify safety as their main concern when choosing travel accommodation.

“It goes without saying that security on our Ladies Only floor is paramount – but as we don’t have to worry about appealing to male guests, we’ve also had a lot of fun designing a feminine haven packed with girlie treats that only a female guest could truly appreciate!”

Heightened security is provided by secure access elevator keycards and even the hotel staff employed to carry out duties on the floor are exclusively female.

Rooms have been designed with a female aesthetic in mind and each features a fresh seasonal bloom, scented candle, waffle robe and slippers, complimentary women’s magazines and a refresher unwind pack featuring organic beauty products and MOR bathroom products. Cloud 9 GHD hair straighteners and yoga mats are available on request and can be purchased at the end of the stay.

In place of the standard minibar is the Portal PamperBar, featuring an extensive range of Yuva organic beauty products, Yealands Way Carbon Zero wine range made by award-winning female winemaker Tamra Washington and hair dressing services available from leading Brisbane salon Vogue Nationale.

Conveniently located within a stone’s throw of Brisbane’s central business district, the Best Western Portal Hotel boasts 84 individual rooms – 11 of which are dedicated Ladies Only accommodation.

The hotel itself has just undergone a quarter of a million dollar refurbishment, transforming it from humdrum city lodgings into a stylish boutique destination filled with bespoke furniture and antique pieces.

Antique solid steel gates, once ‘the portal’ to a 19th century Parisian mansion, provide an intriguing front entrance, while original artwork and cleverly contrasting interiors ensure every corner of The Portal has been thoughtfully designed.

Free wireless internet, iPod docking stations in every room and a specialised turndown service also come as standard. Guests can also enjoy the culinary delights on offer at the “O” Bar and Restaurant, the latest venture from the restaurateurs behind Brisbane’s favourite breakfast venue the Gunshop Café.

For more information or, to book accommodation at the Best Western Portal Hotel, call 131 779 (from Australia), 0800 237 893 (from New Zealand) or log on to the banner ad above for Best Western.

New wilderness resort owners Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts are to spend $20 million over a period of three years to carry out refurbishments across Lizard, Heron and Wilson Islands, El Questro Homestead and Wilderness Park and Kings Canyon Resort.

The refurbishments are aimed at significantly improving the guest experience and reflecting the beauty of each property’s natural surroundings.

Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts are working with Australian interior design firm Pike Withers to carry out the refurbishments. Work has already started on a soft refurbishment of Lizard and Heron islands and is expected to be finished within three months.

Fringed with colourful coral reefs and 24 powdery white beaches, Lizard Island is a picture-perfect island for discerning travellers.

Retaining its level of understated elegance and style, an element of colour and warmth is to be injected into the look and feel of Lizard Island to reflect the colours and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Osprey’s restaurant and the main lodge of Lizard Island have been re-painted with polished and stained timber floors.

The 40 guest rooms at Lizard Island will be upgraded with new furnishings, artwork and landscaping, all set to be completed over three months.

At the very southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Gladstone, lies Heron Island, a natural coral cay. Heron Island will receive a substantial upgrade of all the 109 guest rooms, with an emphasis on bringing the beauty of the reef into the rooms to reflect the driftwood feel and nature of the wilderness island.

Wayne Kirkpatrick, Managing Director of Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts, said: “Our focus is on creating special experiences for our guests and refining the essential elements of world-class nature-based tourism operations. To do this we have undergone a period of time reviewing each property and determining a strategy of upgrades and improvements that need to take place.”

“The refurbishments are designed to refresh these iconic properties, reflecting their natural surroundings.”

In November last year, Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts acquired Lizard Island, Heron Island and Wilson Island in Queensland’s World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Kings Canyon Resort in the Northern Territory. In March, Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts also took ownership of El Questro Wilderness Park & Homestead in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

Noosa, has long attracted international travellers seeking a rejuvenating Australian beach holiday.

As Queensland’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Noosa’s low-rise aspect combines with quality accommodation, cosmopolitan experiences and world class natural attractions to deliver an unparalleled and unforgettable coastal escape.

And in 2010, there are even more reasons to consider Noosa with new 5 star resorts opening for business, impressive new touring options available and internationally renowned visitor attractions just a short trip away.

In March, Mirvac’s Quay West Resort & Spa Noosa officially opened, joining the group’s Sebel Resort Noosa. Quay West overlooks the tranquil waters of Noosa Sound and nine hectares of a protected conservation sanctuary and is a short distance from Hastings Street and main beach.

An ideal base for romantic escapes, family holidays or meeting and incentive groups, the resort offers a choice of 78 rooms ranging from studio to 1, 2 & 3 bedroom self-contained apartments.

Also onsite is the luxurious Mii Spa Day Spa, Aroona restaurant and cocktail bar, lagoon swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis centre and conference centre catering for up to 240 people.

Developed across an elevated position on Noosa Hill alongside the lush Noosa National Park, the recently opened, Outrigger’s Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa offers spectacular ocean or rainforest views from each of the 197 rooms that comprise the property.

A short stroll to Hastings Street, the resort is the first new build in Australia to be managed by the Hawaiian based Outrigger company, offering 1-2 bedroom suites and 2-3 three bedroom villas. Taking advantage of Noosa’s ideal climate all room’s feature large private balconies. The resort facilities include a 10 room day spa, restaurant and bar, meeting facilities for up to 500, pool bar and lap pool.

Surrounded by stunning forest, rivers, ocean and mountains, Noosa hosts endless outdoor activities for energetic holidaymakers, from kayaking and surf lessons to horse riding, offshore fishing and much more.

For those seeking exploration further afield, day and multi-day touring options from Noosa are set to expand in 2010, enhancing the area’s appeal as a perfect base from which to experience some of Australia’s leading attractions.

Australia’s award-winning Noosa based eco-tourism operator The Discovery Group has announced a brand new all inclusive holiday package showcasing the very best of coastal Queensland.

The new East Coast Discovery package offers 7 nights of indulgence combining the culinary delights of Noosa, staying 3 nights at the new Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa, followed by ‘Two Days of Discovery’ on World Heritage listed Fraser Island including overnight accommodation at the island’s premier resort, Kingfisher Bay Resort.

The week is topped off with 3 luxurious nights at the Sea Temple Resort & Spa, Port Douglas on the Great Barrier Reef, including an outer-reef experience and return airport transfers.

The Discovery Group has also introduced a brand new day tour product, the Noosa Day of Discovery.

Starting with a complimentary hotel pick-up from Sunshine Coast accommodation, the tour includes a morning stroll through the bustling, vibrant stalls of Eumundi markets in the hinterland, followed by a delicious lunch on the beautiful Noosa River.

A relaxing ‘Afternoon River Cruise’ into the Noosa Everglades with return hotel transfers, completing an unforgettable day in one of Australia’s premium holiday destinations.

The Group also runs day tours to Fraser Island from Noosa and operates cruises into the stunning Noosa everglades and river system.

A selection of Noosa and Sunshine Coast day touring choices are also now available via Noosa based company Storeyline Tours.

A long-running day tour company, Storeyline has announced a sub-license agreement with respected sightseeing company Gray Line, to operate Gray Line Sunshine Coast, which commenced in May 2010.

The company offers an extensive range of tours with fourteen unique trips to select from including the Noosa Town Tour and Eumundi Markets, to Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Fraser Island, the Crocodile Hunter’s Australia Zoo and Whale Watching in season from August to October.

For more information on Noosa or things to do and see in destination go to www.visitnoosa.com.au

Experience the iconic InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto while rediscovering Australia’s sporting, shopping, dining and cultural capital.

Let InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto’s concierge team help you make the most of your time in marvelous Melbourne with the Discover Melbourne package, which includes luxury overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast, valet car parking and a personalised consultation with the hotel’s concierge team, from only $295 per night.

Whether it’s a stroll through the city’s eclectic laneways and arcades, a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria’s Australian art collection or dinner at that quaint little restaurant that you’ve always wanted to try, the hotel’ s concierge team will guide you through the city, unveiling Melbourne’s hidden gems and must-do experiences, tailored to your interests.

When your feet can take you no further, relax and recharge back at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, which offers all the facilities expected of a luxury international hotel, including a variety of five-star dining establishments and bars, the indulgent East Day Spa and a unique suite collection that takes best advantage of the building’s gothic heritage.

For an additional $150 per night, guests can upgrade to Club InterContinental and enjoy exclusive benefits including afternoon tea, twilight drinks and canapés and free wireless internet throughout the Club lounge.

The InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto Discover Melbourne package is available for stays until 29 October 2010.

Rates are per room, per night and are subject to availability.

For more information or to the banner above for InterContinental Hotels.

Have you ever flown business class and dreaded the thought of going back to economy?

That’s how a night at Urban Hotels feels. A Group of properties built on making guests completely at home – but with a few added luxuries. Travelling, commuting, and interstate business can take it out of you, but a stay at Urban will revive your spirits and have you relishing those mid-week business trips even more than a quiet weekend at home.

Three locations each with their own niche style – Urban Brisbane, atop Spring Hill with a Manhattan style Loft bar, terrace pool and art deco exterior fresh from a $15m redevelopment. Urban St Kilda, sitting on the buzzing Fitzroy Street and the boutique member of the family – 80 quirky rooms, a steel and black cocktail bar, and superb café rumoured to serve the best breakfasts in the suburb. And Urban St Leonards, tucked away from the busy CBD and showcasing a peaceful side of Sydney, with 100 chic rooms, barbecues and terrace courtyards, and the fun addition of a putting green in the hotel grounds.

So what gives Urban its unmistakeable feel good factor? Like any memorable experience, it’s the little details that make the difference.

Sick of the smoggy city smells and poor air-quality on your flight?

Urban will sort that out with the soothing scent of signature lavender throughout each location.

Desperate for a cup of quality tea when you check in? Help yourself to Urban’s T2 sachets waiting in your room.

Plagued by insomnia on your business trip? Hit the 24-hour gym (affectionately referred to as ‘Jim’ by Urban staff) for a midnight workout.

Every comfort is considered at Urban. On-site restaurants, delicious room service menus, super comfy beds (the legendary Urban Snorers) are standard.

Evo bathroom products, ‘Little Fridges’ stocked with goodies, Slippers and bathrobes are not so standard and included in every room.

It’s Urban’s special touches that have earned the Group a loyal following of guests – regular travellers are welcomed with open arms and new guests feel right at home from the moment they walk through the doors.

Whether you’re using St Leonards as a base for your North Shore business meetings, kicking back at St Kilda for a weekend trip with the family, or enjoying a night away with friends at Urban Brisbane, you’ll enjoy the full Urban experience every time you stay with us.

The Urban philosophy is simple but very effective – you won’t feel like you’ve stayed in a faceless, identikit property.

More like you’ve stayed in the home of a friend with very good taste.

www.hotelurban.com.au

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced that Westin Hotels marks its return to Mexico City with the recent opening of The Westin Santa Fe, Mexico City.

Managed under an agreement between Starwood and Heldan Hotels & Resorts S.A. de C.V, The Westin Santa Fe, Mexico City overlooks one of the area’s evergreen valleys with views of the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes.

The opening of the newly constructed hotel also marks the debut of Breathe Westin in Mexico’s capital city, setting the standard for smoke-free hotels in this market.

The Westin Santa Fe, Mexico City is a key element of Park Plaza, the city’s newest, upscale mixed-use development.

Designed by Edmonds International, Park Plaza features more than 700,000 square feet of office space and a variety of high-end retail shops.

Less than 20 minutes from Toluca airport, The Westin Santa Fe, Mexico City is within walking distance of the BBVA Bancomer Convention Center and convenient to numerous corporate offices, restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

The Westin Santa Fe, Mexico City is the Westin brand’s sixth hotel in Mexico joining The Westin Resort & Spa Los Cabos, The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, The Westin Resort & Spa Cancun, The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas (a Starwood Vacation Ownership property) and The Westin San Luis in Potosi.

In addition to its six hotels in Mexico and one in Guatemala, the brand is gearing up to open The Westin Libertador in Lima, Peru in 2011.

Overall, Starwood Hotels & Resorts now has 22 hotels and resorts in Mexico and 62 properties in Latin America.

The hotel will feature the Westin Sensory Welcome, a blend of signature white tea scent, music, botanicals and mood lighting upon entrance; the Westin Heavenly Bath and Heavenly Bed; high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space; six signature WestinWorkOut rooms and an outdoor pool; the SuperfoodsRX menu; the Heavenly Spa by Westin; and nearly 14,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space. Additional facilities include a lobby bar and Pinzimini Restaurant, an Italian eatery featuring delicious Tuscan cuisine prepared by Chef Daniel Tellez.

Pinzimini’s extensive menu includes high-quality grilled meats, salads and pastas, all simply prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

The hotel also features a separate, fully equipped full-service Kosher kitchen.

The Spa at Trump, the signature spa brand of the Trump Hotel Collection, will make its Manhattan debut at the new Trump SoHo New York.

The 11,000-square-foot spa encompasses two floors of the hotel, and introduces to the New York spa market the Trump Spa Attaché and Trump Personal Intentions, and a selection of services created specifically for its SoHo locale.

The new spa also features the first authentic luxury hammams in New York City, affording spa-goers a rare opportunity to experience the traditional social and cultural bathing rituals of Turkey and the Middle East.

The hammams were inspired by Ivanka Trump’s travels in Istanbul. Created under Ivanka Trump’s direction,

The Spa at Trump’s design is the work of DiGuiseppe Architect, the award-winning hospitality and spa specialists. It includes nine private treatment rooms and wet rooms, separate hammams for men and women, and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas.

The spa’s state-of-the-art fitness center is outfitted with the latest equipment from Technogym.

Three luxurious Spa Suites offering private, connecting couples-sized treatment rooms and designed by Rockwell Group will open in the fall.

With 22 years of spa experience, Leigh Smith will serve as spa director for The Spa at Trump at Trump SoHo New York. Smith was most recently vice president of sales for Exhale Enterprises, launching spas across the world.

She was responsible for the launch of more than 100 aromatherapy skincare products for Decleor, a division of Shiseido, over a four-year tenure as national director of sales and education.

Guests can book a treatment at The Spa at Trump by calling 212-842-5505 or e-mailing sohospa@trumphotels.com .

For more information about Trump SoHo, call 212-842-5500 or 877-828-7080 or visit www.trumpsohohotel.com

Hotel Indigo, InterContinental Hotels Group’s upscale boutique brand, announced the opening of Hotel Indigo East End in Riverhead, New York.

Conveniently situated near the Hamptons and vineyards of Eastern Long Island, the 100-room conversion property is located on eight private acres and is close to dining, entertainment and shopping venues.

Owned and operated by Jaral East End Hotel Corp, the two-story property preserves the architecture of the original 1970s building.

Morris Nathanson Design created a residential feel with contemporary accents and oversized furnishings for comfort and lushness.

The overall color palette is neutralized with pops of warm oranges, sea powder and indigo blues, greens and gold. Oversized graphics highlighting Wine Country and the beach bring the surroundings inside. The finishes, materials and fabrics have an organic, natural texture, and the wood is inspired by beach driftwood.

The hotel includes Bistro 72 that features locally grown, organic ingredients and regional wines, along with a fitness center, business center and two meeting rooms totaling 8,000 square feet.

The property also features signature Hotel Indigo standards including inviting guestrooms with oversized beds and hard-surface flooring for a fresh, residential feel, spa-inspired showers with Aveda products, and free wired or wireless high-speed Internet access.