Jetsettersblog

Indulge in world class beauty and relaxation treatments and experience pure bliss amongst the rainforest at the new Spa Anise at Spicers Tamarind Retreat.

The luxury property near Maleny in the Sunshine Coast hinterland has launched its eagerly anticipated destination day spa, a sanctuary where guests can experience complete relaxation and wellness treatments in the ultimate natural setting.

Nestled in Spicers Tamarind’s lush grounds and surrounded by stunning subtropical gardens, the purpose built facility features four treatment rooms and a state of the art hydrotherapy room complete with a therapeutic spa, rain shower and steam room with water sourced on site from a deep mineral spring – all overlooking the forest.

Three treatment rooms are twin bedded to enable couples to experience a wellness treatment together. Spacious timber windows slide back and open on to rainforest views, inviting the outdoors inside. The facility also has a single treatment room which offers disabled access.

Spa Anise treatments range from 60 minutes to a five hour total indulgence package which includes lunch with champagne. For the ultimate pampering, indulge in its signature treatment, the Lush Lemongrass body ritual.

After treatment, guests can relax even further in a well-appointed post treatment room featuring a lounge, fireplace and a large covered deck area complete with a refreshment station. Here, guests can sample world-class Spa cuisine, listen to the birds and the gentle flow of the nearby creek and soak in the enchanting beauty of one of Queensland’s most breathtaking destinations.

“If the rainforest setting doesn’t relax you, our new destination day spa will,”Spicers Tamarind Retreat general manager David Assef said.

“Spa Anise is a total experience like no other. We have created a peaceful sanctuary which offers complete wellness experiences which are individually tailored to our guests’ needs, from a professional spa exclusive facial to a specifically designed remedial massage focussing on improving movement and decreasing pain and comfort.

“All of our therapists are highly qualified in massage and beauty therapy and have completed intensive training to ensure the high standards set by the Spicers Group are maintained.

“Spa Anise is the ultimate place to get away from it all, offering the very best in spa experiences where indulgence and relaxation are the goals. Whether you’re a guest of Spicers Tamarind or just stopping by for the day to unwind from the stresses of everyday life, Spa Anise is guaranteed to leave you in a state of bliss.”

Spicers Tamarind Retreat is an intimately unique property where Thai style meets the tranquility of the Australian bush. The retreat is situated next to stunning Gardners Falls in a picturesque rainforest spread over 18 acres.

To celebrate its new spa, Spicers Tamarind has put together some irresistible offers.

The Spa Anise Sampler includes Spicers Signature Foot Ritual, a 60 minute massage and 30 minutes in the hydrotherapy room for $99*, normally valued at $175.

The Mid-week Refresher includes an overnight stay for $459* per couple with a free 60 minute massage for each. And for the ultimate Christmas gift, Spa Anise also has gift certificates available via post or email.

Spa Anise uses products from Waterlily, an authentic Australian spa collection meticulously formulated exclusively for day spas and salons using only the purest of natural botanical ingredients.

Rich in aromatic essential oils, organic French clays, cold pressed plant oils, anti-ageing vitamins, healing herbs and lashings of exotic fruit, floral and marine extracts, the Waterlily collection is a sojourn for the senses created to offer not only beautifully luminous skin, but a complete solution to spa wellness.

Spa Anise also offers guests world class culinary experiences. A Spa Cuisine menu is available featuring healthy and beautifully presented dishes such as cucumber with yoghurt, dill and avocado; tomatoes with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and herbs; and garden salad with pickled, fresh and roasted vegetables and garden leaves and flowers. Guests can also enjoy a seasonal selection of delectable fruit sorbets.

Spicers Tamarind Retreat offers intimate, private and romantic accommodation in a unique location. The property features 12 Villas – five one bedroom Villas, each of which feature their own outdoor cedar hot tub, and seven two bedroom Villas.

Each Villa offers understated luxury and enjoys an intimate relationship with its stunning tropical rainforest setting. This creates the perfect private retreat for couples looking to share time together.
Bookings are essential on 1300 311 429 or visit: www.spicersgroup.com.au

Spicers Tamarind Retreat is located at 88 Obi Lane South, Maleny, Queensland.

Leading the 2012 Calendar is the Perth International – the newest addition to the global golf agenda. Tourism WA’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephanie Buckland, said the Perth International will take place at Lake Karrinyup Country Club, one of Australia’s finest golf courses, and is set to attract some of the world’s best golfers all competing to win US$2 million.

“The Perth International, owned by the International Management Group, will be sanctioned by the European Tour that is currently experiencing unprecedented success and boasts the top four ranked golfers in the world,” Ms Buckland said.

“We’re excited to announce a three year agreement with the tournament and are planning to develop the Perth International into a key occasion in the Asia Pacific Region.”

Ms Buckland said another new event scheduled for 2012 was the Action Sports Games Mandurah, a three-day International Waterski and Wakeboard World Cup.

“Events on the 2012 calendar will have a significant impact on Western Australia’s tourism industry with more than 1.2 million people forecast to attend the events generating over $221 million worth of value to the State,” Ms Buckland said.

“The events are crucial to the development and growth of Western Australia and since the State Government invested a record $36.7 million into the program, we are now starting to see the rewards.”

As part of the funding boost revealed in the May State Budget, Eventscorp will receive $40 million over the next four years from Royalties for Regions for events in regional Western Australia. The State Government recognises the value of regional events and the support they provide to the local communities.

Tourism Western Australia has also developed an events marketing strategy to ensure the State maximises rewards from the investment in event sponsorship.

For more information, please visit www.tourism.wa.gov.au/Events/Calendar

After launching in Australia in 2011, experiential small group operator, Inspiring Journeys, is creating even more incredible stories by expanding its horizons to include three spectacular journeys in New Zealand and also adding experiences to its Australian journeys in 2012/13.

Providing new and different ways to travel Australia and New Zealand, the new journeys complement the existing Australian journeys, which take travellers on a path of discovery through The Kimberley, Red Centre, Top End, Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia.

Three New Zealand itineraries have been introduced, The Endless Shores six-day journey through the North Island, The Southern Drift eight-day journey which takes in the South Island and The Long White Cloud 13-day journey which explores New Zealand from North to South.

In Australia, Inspiring Journeys has also expanded, with the new The Secret South eight-day journey, which navigates South Australia’s Flinders Ranges and the Clare Valley. Experiences on offer include a 4WD tour of a working cattle station in the Flinders Ranges and staying at the award-winning wildlife sanctuary, Arkaroola Wilderness Lodge. A choice of adventurous optional activities are also available such as a scenic flight over Lake Eyre, a hot air balloon ride over the Flinders Ranges or mountain bike ride through Wilpena Pound, plus so much more.

Reflecting the unique Inspiring Journeys proposition, Australian and New Zealand 2012/13 itineraries have been developed with a special emphasis on accommodation with a connection to its environment, locally produced meals which are inspired by flavours of the destination and many exciting ways for travellers to choose how they, discover, explore, learn and of course, relax.

As well as The Secret South, Inspiring Journeys has made additions to existing Australian journeys. Examples include visiting Josef Chromy Wines in Launceston on The Forgotten Coast 11-day Tasmania journey; a beautiful picnic lunch in Litchfield National Park on The Long Rainbow three-day journey of the Top End and spending two-nights at Wildman Wilderness Lodge on The Mysterious North five-day journey.

In New Zealand, special accommodation has been sourced, such as the intimate Franz Josef Glacier Retreat on the South Island, which is focused on relaxation and rejuvenation or the Puka Park, Coromandel Ranges on the North Island, where travellers stay in Tree Hut chalets at Pauanui Beach. Travellers even stay overnight on a magical cruise on Milford Sound.

In 2012/13 Inspiring Journeys satisfies the experiential needs of our travellers crossing the Tasman. Choose to Discover and take a scenic flight over Milford Sound’s picturesque fiords, glaciers, alpine lakes and waterfalls; Learn and get up close with the marine life of the Bay of Islands, Explore and hit the road on a 4WD safari incorporating scenes from The Lord of the Rings; or Relax and experience a blissful state of pure relaxation in the thermal springs of Rotorua.

New Journeys on offer in 2012/13 include:

The Secret South, eight-day journey, priced from $4270 per person, twin share. Taking in some of South Australia’s most remote treasures, key highlights include learn about geology at the Wadlata Outback Centre, jump on a guided boat cruise that takes you to the upper reaches of the Spencer Gulf, hit the road and head along little-known tracks to enter the Flinders Ranges, enjoy an afternoon 4WD tour of Nilpena Station, stay at the Arkaroola Wilderness Lodge, explore Wilpena Pound, enjoy a guided tour of Old Wilpena Station, take a beautiful hike into Alligator Gorge, within Mount Remarkable National Park, before enjoying a gourmet Highlight Lunch with a wine tasting lesson at the North Star Hotel in nearby Melrose, stay in the heart of the Clare Valley, visit historic Mintaro, wine taste in the quaint stone cellars of Reilly’s Wines and finish up in Adelaide. Departure dates available from 5 May to 6 October, 2012.

The Endless Shores, six-day journey, priced from $3155 per person, twin share. Taking in New Zealand’s North Island, highlights of this journey include visit the living thermal village of Whakarewarewa, gain an insight into local Maori culture and history with a special Maori show and traditional Hangi in Rotorua, witness the Agrodome Sheep Show, see glow worms and cave formations up close, spot a native kiwi and other fascinating wildlife in Coromandel, stay in Tree Hut Chalets at Puka Park, enjoy Auckland at leisure, travel to Orewa and the scenic Hibiscus Coast, visit the Bay of Islands and take a cruise to see the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. Departure dates available from 29 October, 2012 to 23 September, 2013.

The Southern Drift, eight-day journey, priced from $3715, per person, twin share. This journey travels New Zealand’s South Island with key highlights including travel across the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine train, visit the small town of Hokitika, view the mighty Franz Josef Glacier with an expert glacier guide, stay at the Eco friendly Franz Josef Glacier Retreat, travel over the Haast Pass and along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea, stay at Millbrook Resort framed by the Remarkables Mountain Range, enjoy a day at leisure in Queenstown, experience a magical dinner and overnight cruise on Milford Sound, stay and explore remote Stewart Island. Departure dates available from 22 October, 2012 to 16 September, 2013.

The highest level of personal service can be expected from the Journey Leaders and Navigators. Travelling in a small group of on average just 12-16 travellers and in luxury 4WD Mercedes Benz vehicles, we travel to areas inaccessible by coaches which means travellers have the opportunity to see and do more in an intimate setting.

Everyone has a story, so why not start your next chapter with Inspiring Journeys – visit www.inspiringjourneys.com.au  call 1800 INSPIRING (1800 467 747) or email connect@inspiring.com.au

The Star Alliance Network and Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) are teaming up to offer one lucky winner a luxurious trip around the world for two people!

To enter the competition, participants need only to sign up, either via the Star Alliance or the GHA Facebook page (facebook.com/staralliance or facebook.com/globalhotelalliance). The campaign will run for a total of eleven days beginning 8th December 2011. Each day, participants will be asked to guess a new destination based on clues which will be made available on both the Star Alliance and GHA Facebook pages. Every destination on the competition itinerary will be served by at least one Star Alliance member airline and also have a hotel belonging to one of GHA’s member brands..

The eleven destinations may well provide inspiration to the lucky winner, who will be able to put together a tailor-made Round-the-World trip for two people with business class flights with Star Alliance’s airlines and luxury hotel accommodation at GHA member brand hotels. The prize allows full flexibility in terms of the itinerary flown, providing it is within the standard terms of the Star Alliance Round-the-World fare.

Bunyip Bike Tours
Bunyip Bike Tours is a locally owned, eco-friendly experience specialising in two-wheeled Gold Coast tours to the best and most unique locations throughout the City. Covering easy terrain, the bike tours have been accomplished by guests aged between seven and 70, with individuals enjoying the experience in small, intimate groups. The mountain tour visits a rainforest, winery and the famous glow worm caves for just $88, while the Beach Safari Tour takes riders along the City’s picturesque coastline to a secluded lookout for only $49. A new addition is the Wild Kangaroo Experience where riders get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, wetland birds and lizards within a nature reserve. Includes bike hire, safety gear and hotel pick up as part of the package. www.bunyipbiketours.com.au

Eco-Friendly Sky Lodge Apartments At Binna Burra
The historic Binna Burra Mountain Lodge will launch 18 eco-friendly, luxury sky lodge apartments in December. Stage one will cost $12 million and is part of a multistage, 15-year redevelopment plan. The Sky Lodges are surrounded by World Heritage-listed Lamington National park and offer a luxurious accommodation alternative to the traditional Mountain Lodge. The Sky Lodges are environmentally sensitive, solar-passive and energy efficient in their design. www.binnaburralodge.com.au

Aboriginal Cultural Exchange at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
This summer as an intimate after dark option, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary introduces its all new Yanguwah aboriginal cultural exchange, which includes cooking demonstrations, traditional dance shows, animal encounters led by wildlife rangers, and topped off with a traditional feast. www.cws.org.au

Dreamworld Links With Dreamworks Animation
Dreamworld has revealed a world-class alliance with global entertainment brand, DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Well-loved characters including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Po from Kung Fu Panda, Alex the Lion from Madagascar, and many others will soon appear at Dreamworld. The alliance will be revealed over three phases commencing with the DreamWorks Holiday Shrektacular Show this summer season. In an Australian theme park first, phase two will open for the 2012 Easter holiday period with a new 8,400sqm DreamWorks Experience precinct, before the exciting third phase, which is currently in development and includes a Kung Fu garden where families can meet Po from Kung Fu Panda and enjoy lunch or refreshments. www.dreamworld.com.au

Gold Coast to Unveil 2012 Bleach Festival
For those who can’t get enough surf, sand and sun, brace yourself – Bleach* Surfing the Fringe is coming. The Gold Coast’s inaugural Surf Culture FestivaI will celebrate artistic expression and creativity inspired by surf and beach culture, via an eclectic mix of pop up art installations, photography, exhibitions, film screenings, music, food, theatre and fashion events all targeted to represent the surf lifestyle. Bleach* will descend on the spectacular beaches, foreshores and major venues unique to the Southern Gold Coast from 11- 26 February, 2012 as one of the largest arts events in size, scope and duration ever held on the Gold Coast. www.bleachfestival.com.au

Gold Coast to Host Its First Ever Rugby Test in 2012
The Qantas Wallabies will take on World Cup quarter finalists Argentina in a historic showdown at Skilled Park, Gold Coast, when the game’s latest jewel in the crown – The Castrol Edge Rugby Championship – is launched next year. The Castrol Edge Rugby Championship replaces the Tri Nations series next year following the inclusion of Argentina alongside the Wallabies, All Blacks and Springboks. For the Wallabies the ground-breaking Championship includes a first ever Test on the Gold Coast against the Pumas from Argentina on Saturday, 15 September.

CSI: The Experience exhibition
In a major coup for Queensland, Piazza Surfers Paradise hosts CSI: The Experience exhibition, marking a first ever appearance of the popular exhibition in Australia, following its triumphs in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The Gold Coast is a perfect destination for this exhibition which is sure to be a hit among locals and tourists alike. CSI: The Experience exhibition invites visitors to assume the role of a forensic detective to solve cases using scientific principles and techniques currently in use today and as seen on the CSI television programs.

Summer Days At Sanctuary Cove
This summer at The Marina Sanctuary Cove explore The Marine Village with its abundance of waterside shops, galleries, salons and restaurants. The Marine Village is accessible by boat or car and has an array of restaurants sure to hit the spot, offering everything from a hearty late breakfast to exotic international flavours or just a delicious coffee and cake. Browse the fashion boutiques as you look for cutting-edge ladies’ and men’s fashion pieces, swimwear and accessories. Take a stroll through the art galleries and antiques shops, find the perfect gift at one of the specialty shops and tempt your sweet tooth at the chocolate shop. If the sea air has played havoc with your hair, hit one of the salons or day spas for a once-over before you head back out to sea. www.sanctuarycove.com/marine-village

Ultimate Summer Shopping At Marina Mirage
With the start of summer, now is the time to update your weekend and poolside wardrobe. At Marina Mirage you will find the ultimate collection of international and Australian swimwear at designer boutiques including Zimmermann, im Boutique, Calvin Klein, Ocean Beach, Sunburn and their newest boutique, Blue Heaven which is Australia’s leading stockist of Maryan Mehlhorn swimwear and resort wear. Guests are also encouraged to enjoy the specialty services of Marina Mirage’s luxurious day spas and beauty salons including Couture Spa & Salon, Esteem Day Spa, La Beauty at Mirage and Marcus Edward. Marina Mirage is Queensland’s ultimate waterfront shopping and dining destination. www.marinamirage.com.au

Warner Bros. Movie World White Christmas
Warner Bros. Movie World will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland as White Christmas returns for eight nights of amazing holiday festivities from 5.30pm to 8.30pm on 10-18 December 2011. Featured will be Australia’s largest light show with more than one million twinkling lights of all colours, shapes and sizes, a stunning twenty metre tall Christmas tree which will be clearly visible from the car park, plus an amazing Magical White Christmas Parade, boasting festive floats directed by Frosty the Snowman, Santa’s toy workshop and of course Bugs Bunny dressed in his Christmas best. www.MyFun.com.au

Continue reading All That’s New and Exciting on The Gold Coast of Australia…

MALDIVES, November 2011 – Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has launched ‘Celebrate Good Times’ activities for the upcoming festive period. Activities ranging from gala dinners to musical performances and themed brunches have been planned among the activities.

The activities begin on Christmas Eve with the special Christmas Eve dinner where guests can either enjoy the buffet dinner at the relaxed atmosphere in Feast or the special 5 course set menu at the informal, al fresco dining atmosphere in Sand Coast. Afterwards the guests can relax under the stars amid the scenic beauty of the Maldives at Anchorage Bar while listening to cool, ambient background music of an acoustic duo.

Among the activities planned for the New Year, the guests get to enjoy a special New Year’s Eve dinner where they can enjoy nearly 101 of the finest delicacies from all over the world. After the dinner as everyone counts down the minutes to New Year, guests can either light up the floor to the grooves of the DJ along with the fire limbo dancers or unwind with great cocktails and snacks enjoying a panoramic view of the ocean.

Speaking regarding the activities, Director of Sales & Marketing Mr. Peter Foreman said that “The year-end festivities are a special time where friends and families come together to celebrate and relax after a bustling year. Sheraton Maldives in delighted to offer this special program to our guests.”

The ‘Celebrate Good Times’ activities will conclude on New Year’s Day after the detox brunch, where guests share their first moment of the New Year with special hangover remedies.

For more details about Sheraton Maldives, connect to www.sheraton.com/maldives

About Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton helps guests make connections at more than 400 hotels in 70 countries around the world and recently completed a $6 billion global revitalization and is now in the midst of a $5 billion global expansion over the next three years. Sheraton is owned by and is the largest and most global brand of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 1051 properties in 100 countries and territories with 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 1,071 properties in 100 countries and territories with 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. The company boasts one of the industry’s leading loyalty programs, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), allowing members to earn and redeem points for room stays, room upgrades and flights, with no blackout dates. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com

From LUXE City Guides and following the enormous success of Little LUXE Hong Kong, comes the brand new guide Little LUXE Singapore – for chic and stylish families on the go.

No one in Asia does family as well as Singapore, and only Little LUXE delivers the skinny on how to explore the Lion City with your little ones in style. It’s jam-packed with over 300 super-selective and hand-picked recommendations to the best child friendly hotels, restaurants, spas, activities and more, and all are organized by area so it’s easy to plan your day, rain or shine. Just add kids!

Take your pick from the most fun, kiddie friendly museums, plan a day of escapades at Sentosa, introduce the rugrats to local cuisine, check out Chinatown’s bustling streets, hit up the great outdoors on Segway or ziplining through the jungle, and of course, go shopping, and shopping some more. Little LUXE has it all. It’s great for locals too, with a slew of inside info on the best medi-care in town, arts and crafts stores, organic groceries, prenatal classes and other useful tips. Whether you have a few days or are new in town, Little LUXE really is all you need!

Written by resident editors with families, for families, Little LUXE Singapore and Little LUXE Hong Kong are published in partnership with LittleStepsAsia.com and available in stores and at www.luxecityguides.com. US$ 9.99 / £ 4.99 / €6.99 / HK$ 80 / AUD$12.99

Famous for their ultra short, sharp and snappy reviews and highly selective entries, LUXE City Guides have sold well over one million copies – no padding, no maps, just super-curated, highly opinionated quickfire speed reads from resident editors who REALLY know their city, so you can spend time enjoying the city, not head down in a book.

LittleStepsAsia.com is the online resource devoted to delivering the inside scoop to parents on what to do, buy, and discover in Asia. Little Steps scouts, tastes and shops to find the most hip and happening products and places for parents and kids.

For more information, samples and photos please contact:
LUXE City Guides
Valeria Avirett, valeria@luxecityguides.com , (+852) 2819 8592
LittleStepsAsia.com
Amie Hibbard, amie@littlestepsasia.com , (+852) 6689 1848

Best Western Australasia, part of the World’s Biggest Hotel Family℠, is offering customers more choice with the launch of their descriptor program, which will identify properties in three categories.

The three categories will be BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER and have been developed on the back of customer feedback.

Rob Anderson, Chief Executive of Best Western Australasia said, “As the largest hotel chain in the world, Best Western offers a wide variety of hotels, motels, apartments and resorts. While continuing to operate as a single brand, Best Western will introduce two new descriptors in Australia: Best Western Plus and Best Western Premier. The strategy is designed to explain the various product experiences of our hotels and offer consumers more choice in their accommodation options.

By introducing two new types of Best Western hotels, we are more clearly defining our hotel brand, which will ultimately lead to increased guest satisfaction, loyalty and bookings for Best Western’s member hoteliers. By introducing these descriptors, we are ensuring travellers will be able to choose the right Best Western for their needs, wherever they are in the world”.

Best Western properties continue to offer global quality standards at an affordable price.

Best Western Plus properties (minimum 4-star rating) offer that little something extra. From well appointed rooms to modern amenities, these properties offer all of the amenities of Best Western hotels, along with updated furnishings, high-quality bath amenities and upgraded bed ensembles.

The distinct style and personalised service of Best Western Premier (minimum 4.5 star rating) will always leave a lasting impression. Upscale hotels that offer luxury at the right price, Best Western Premier properties offer stylish decor, on-site dining, high-quality in-room entertainment, dedicated room service and plush amenities.

The group expects to have over 20 Best Western Plus properties by the end of the year, and introduce new Best Western Premier properties into the brand in 2012.

List of Best Western Plus properties in Australia:

ACT
BEST WESTERN PLUS Garden City Motel, Narrabundah ACT

NSW
BEST WESTERN PLUS All Settlers Motor Inn, Tamworth NSW
BEST WESTERN PLUS Hotel Stellar, Sydney NSW
BEST WESTERN PLUS Hovell Tree Inn, Albury NSW

QLD
BEST WESTERN PLUS Ambassador on Ruthven Motor Inn, Toowoomba QLD
BEST WESTERN PLUS Cairns Central Apartments, Cairns QLD
BEST WESTERN PLUS Quarterdecks Harbour Retreat, Hervey Bay QLD
BEST WESTERN PLUS Sudima Suites, Brisbane QLD

VIC
BEST WESTERN PLUS Brooklands of Mornington, Mornington VIC
BEST WESTERN PLUS Buckingham International, Highett VIC
BEST WESTERN PLUS The Carrington, Shepparton VIC
BEST WESTERN PLUS The Tudor, Box Hill VIC
BEST WESTERN PLUS Travel Inn, Carlton VIC

Introducing brand new facilities and services

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts will introduce its second Kerry Hotel on 19 November 2011. Marking the completion of the first phase of a multimillion-dollar renovation, Shangri-La’s Kerry Centre Hotel, Beijing will be rebranded as Kerry Hotel, Beijing. It joins its sister hotel, Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai, which launched the brand in February 2011.

Presenting new facilities, amenities and services, Kerry Hotel, Beijing unveils contemporary Club rooms and suites, a Club lounge, reconfigured lobby and grand ballroom, and is introducing two new dining outlets: Kerry’s Kitchen and Kerry’s Pantry. In addition, the hotel’s iconic Centro bar and lounge has been redesigned for a fresh clean look and added an outdoor bistro-style terrace

“Kerry Hotels are the next generation of luxury hotels! Vibrant, unpretentious and flexible. We believe that today’s traveller wants to engage all senses whether at work or at play. Kerry Hotels have a fresh and energetic vibe and offer some unexpected touches that fuel creativity yet allow time to recharge and relax. Service is less bound by protocol but is enthusiastic and intuitive. Kerry hotels represent passionate hospitality wrapped up in a stylish package and with its renovation, Kerry Hotel, Beijing perfectly embodies those criteria,” said Greg Dogan, president and chief executive officer of Shangri-La International Hotel Management Limited.

Conveniently linked to lifestyle and entertainment options via a “sky bridge,” Kerry Hotel, Beijing sits amongst the head offices of Fortune 100 companies in the heart of Beijing’s business district. Walking through the revolving doors of the hotel, guests are greeted by an onyx and white marbled space adorned with suspended crystal chandeliers by bespoke contemporary light designers Lasvit, abstract art carpets and unconventional ink work.

A Chinese brushstroke video art piece by Japanese artist Shinichi Maruyama is presented on a high-speed digital loop screen at the end wall of the lift lobby. Behind the reception, a dreamlike landscape hand-painted on embroidered silk panels takes pride of place. From across, formed by a spiral of numerous layers of paper-thin optical glass carefully stacked on top of each other, is a sensual yet dynamic glass artwork by award-wining German artist Josepha Gasch-Muche. With every small movement, the refraction of light on glass intensifies, and the art piece reacts as if awakened to life. Crafted by Ricardo Lighting, an eight-metre-high chandelier lends an air of modern sophistication to the open concept lobby. Draping from the ceiling of the second level to the lobby level, this showpiece shimmers parallel to the illuminated staircase, above an 18-metre-long water feature.

“The name Kerry has been part of this hotel’s identity since it opened in 1999. The rebranding creates another milestone along with a number of firsts for the group,” said Johnson Wong, general manager of Kerry Hotel, Beijing. “Our hotel will be the first to offer a paperless check-in and check-out process and guests are encouraged to receive their invoices electronically. Another new brand standard is the complimentary minibar service upon arrival in all guestrooms.”

As part of Kerry Hotel, Beijing’s extensive renovation project, two new dining options present a myriad of culinary options for guests. Both outlets are conceptualised by Japanese design powerhouse Super Potato and Salt.

The hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant, Kerry’s Kitchen, specialises in authentic Asian cuisine and seats 199 guests. Serving buffet for breakfast and lunch, dinner is purely à la carte with almost 100 dishes pairing perfectly with organic wines, sake, draught beer and other Asian-style beverages. Showcased across several live-cooking stations, passionate kitchen theatrics is matched in spirit by a team of energetic service staff. Natural elements of Izumi stones, wood, clay, sand-finished textured walls and Japanese paper are carefully selected and arranged into a space of tranquillity that offers guests the freedom of just being; relaxed, comfortable and feeling right at home, with flavours and aromas transporting them back to childhood days.

Located adjacent to Kerry’s Kitchen, Kerry’s Pantry is a gourmet deli, cosy enough to pass time or to grab a quick bite. Self-creation is key with guests deciding on toppings for salads, what goes into their sandwiches or simply how best to personalise a cake. A floor-to-ceiling glass-encased wine display takes pride of place amongst dark-coloured wood and processed scrap metal.

Refreshed and revamped by Pure Creative, the same design company that created Centro eight years ago, the award-wining bar and lounge features a new addition to its seating: an outdoor bistro-style terrace. With an enhanced sound system and visual set‑up, the bar is also refitted with an enlarged table designed for champagne bottles. Suspended glass globes by British industrial designer Tom Dixon brings a new dimension of lighting effects to the well-loved space.

Apart from aesthetic improvements, the refurbished Grand Ballroom located on the second level features improved audiovisual equipment such as built-in LED. The pillar-free and soundproofed 1,560-square-metre ballroom can accommodate up to 1,500.

Situated on the hotel’s executive floors (17th to 21st), the newly renovated Club rooms and suites, ranging in size from 34 to 68 square metres, offer a line‑up of new hardware and amenities. Standard room features include an angled 40-inch LED television, DVD player, Bose SoundDock, central multi-socket panel with audio, video and USB capabilities for easy plug-and-play connectivity and a standing bar with Nespresso coffee maker. Bathroom features include an automatic multifunction washlet, bathtub and separate shower equipped with a rain‑shower head and a built-in shaving mirror, and a bathroom mirror with an inbuilt television and digital clock.

To celebrate its rebranding, Kerry Hotel, Beijing offers a special introductory package until 29 February 2012. The package includes:
Accommodation in a Club Room
One-way Wi-Fi enabled limousine transfer with airport butler service
Rmb300 dining credit per stay valid at Kerry’s Kitchen, Kerry’s Pantry, The Horizon Chinese restaurant and Centro
Complimentary in-room wired broadband Internet and Wi-Fi access
Complimentary minibar upon arrival, excluding hard liquor and wine
Club benefits and privileges, and access to The Club Lounge located on the 18th floor
Rates start at Rmb2,288 per night, subject to 15 per cent service charge, and a minimum two‑night stay is required. Reservations are subject to availability and advance booking. Terms and conditions apply. Golden Circle members will earn triple Award Points when booking this package.

For reservations at Kerry Hotel, Beijing, please contact the hotel directly on (86 10) 8529 6388 or e-mail reservations.hbkc@thekerryhotels.com. Alternatively, visit www.thekerryhotels.com or consult a travel professional.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s premier hotel companies, currently owns and/or manages 72 hotels under the Shangri-La, Kerry and Traders brands, with a room inventory of over 30,000. Over four decades the group has established its brand hallmark of ‘hospitality from the heart.’ The group has a substantial development pipeline with upcoming projects in Canada, mainland China, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey and United Kingdom.

For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com

The Villas Bali Hotel & Spa in Seminyak has been announced as Indonesia’s Leading Spa Resort 2011/2012 by Indonesia Travel & Tourism Award Foundation and The Board of Advisors at a glittering awards ceremony in Jakarta.

Industry representatives gathered at the gala dinner, which has been dubbed the Oscars of the Indonesian Tourism Industry, to recognise outstanding success by Indonesia’s tourism businesses.

General Manger Andrew Keating said, “on behalf of our loyal staff I am delighted to have The Villas recognised by the renowned Indonesia Travel & Tourism Award Foundation and look forward to continuing to build the strong brand position The Villas & Prana Spa already enjoys”.

The Villas Bali Hotel & Spa has established itself as one of Bali’s finest and most enchanting villa style hotel resorts. The consistent level of service through high staff-to-guest ratios combined with an exceptional range of pampering treatments in Prana Spa ensures a true indulgent experience which has resulted in the Villas not only being awarded this latest award as Indonesia’s Leading Spa Resort, but also joins the prestigious Trip Advisor award earlier this year having been voted in the Top 10 Relaxation/Spa Hotels across Asia.

The Villas has invested strongly through innovation in a range of areas to keep the Villas & Prana Spa top of mind among potential visitors. “This ITTA category win recognises the important work we have done and continue to do in this area.”

“Spa culture has gained significant importance over the last few years and we made the conscious decision not to limit ourselves, we have created a great range of treatment options in line with the latest innovations and evolved The Villas into a sanctuary of well-being dedicated to relaxation,” Mr Keating continued.

Timed to coincide with the winning of such a major award, The Villas and Prana Spa has a special deal on offer for direct bookings only, for a holiday of 3 nights or more, each new booking will enjoy a complimentary 2 hour Ayurvedic Simple Bliss Package in Prana Spa for each adult within the booking. (T&C’s apply including – Must be booked and taken between 18th November 2011 and 29th February 2012 also not available from the 19th of December 2011 till the 5th of January 2012, subject to availability, please ask for further information).