Hotel wrap: Preferred hotels & resorts new members, Australia gets a second voco + more!
We took a 10-minute break from scoffing Easter eggs to bring you up to date with all the latest hotel openings and deals. You’re welcome.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts welcomes 25 new member hotels
Preferred Hotels & Resorts has announced the addition of 25 new member hotels to its global portfolio between January 1 to March 31, 2019.
From iconic heritage buildings in the cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and London to contemporary beachfront luxury in New Jersey, these exciting new properties deliver authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences that embody the spirit of independent travel and capture the essence of #ThePreferredLife.
Highlights include the Fullerton Hotel Sydney, the Hotel Kitano Tokyo, Fortune Park JP Celestial and Sea Containers London.
Ulu Cliffhouse presents Guy Gerber ‘Rumors’
The infamous RUMORS Ibiza is coming to our Clifftop oasis for the second edition in Bali!
From humble beginnings on a beach in Ibiza, RUMORS has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, encapsulating the spirit of Ibiza, creating unique party experiences, and bringing the magic of the white isle to a global audience, all under the guidance of its creator, Guy Gerber.
GUY GERBER has always favoured the road less travelled, and he adheres to the same ethos with his RUMORS events series. The producer has worked with everyone from Puff Daddy to Dixon; his unique vision and worldwide presence have transformed RUMORS into the global brand it is today.
Jo&Joe Unveils its new open house in Paris Gentilly and announces further launches
After first launching in Hossegor in 2017, JO&JOE opened its doors on April 6, 2019 just a stone’s throw from the Cité Internationale Universitaire, in the south of Paris.
Only 2 minutes from the RER B line, 20 minutes from the Arc de Triomphe and 20 minutes from Orly Airport, JO&JOE PARIS-GENTILLY is a new living space, open to all, locals and travellers alike, where youth hostels meet hotels.
JO&JOE has developed its interiors with global architecture and game-changing design studio PENSON. At the Open House of Paris Gentilly, street art is everywhere thanks to the work of 9 local and international artists who have covered the walls with their creations.
JO&JOE aims to expand at an international level. JO&JOE aims to expand at an international level. Over the next few years, the brand is going to set up home in the biggest cities in the world, in the most vibrant areas, very close to public transport and within easy reach of the main points of interest.
By 2020, JO&JOE will have launched Open Houses in London, Budapest, Glasgow, Paris (Nation district), Rio de Janeiro and Rome.
Angsana Xishuangbanna welcomes guests
The newest Angsana property by Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts in China, Angsana Xishuangbanna has opened its doors. The resort is located in Menghai County, the “Rainforest Spring City” where the climate is pleasant and balmy all year round with mild winters and cool summers.
Situated at a comfortable altitude of 1200 meters, Menghai enjoys an average annual temperature of 18.7 °C and boasts 12,000 mu of virgin tropical rainforest, making it the ideal destination for a winter getaway.
The resort features 407 elegantly appointed rooms, suites and villas offering modern comfort in the tropical rainforest setting. All rooms provide spacious terraces either overlooking the landscaped rainforest garden or glittering swimming pool. A selection of the suites and villas also offer private hot spring pools.
Introducing the All-New Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger
Last week, Outrigger Hospitality Group celebrated the unveiling of Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger – its first lifestyle hotel located in the center of Waikiki.
Following an extensive $35-million modernization, the “by Outrigger” property now boasts 498 freshly designed guest rooms, renewed public spaces including the pool deck and two meeting areas, plus an all-new lobby, porte-cochere and much more.
As part of the makeover, Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger also unveiled its alliance of extraordinary artisans called, “The Beachcomber Originals,” who created and contributed personal artwork featured throughout the new hotel. From an extreme-surf photographer to a Hawaiian fiber artist and an internationally acclaimed slack-key guitarist, the 12 artists collaborated with Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger to create a one-of-a-kind journey for guests, while sharing their personal inspiration and passion for the Hawaiian culture.
Save up to 30 per cent on your next stay + 10 per cent off local experiences with Oaks hotels, resorts & suites
If you’re looking to get away for a mid-year break but need a little itinerary inspiration, Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites has launched its brand new ‘Stay More, Save More, Do More’ campaign, inviting travellers to save up to 30 per cent on accommodation when staying for two nights or more between 23 April and 30 September, plus enjoy access to a host of handpicked activities, experiences and tours…
On sale from now until 30 June, Oaks’ ‘Stay More, Save More, Do More’ Sale encompasses over 40 of its Australian and New Zealand hotels and resorts, spanning Queenstown, Auckland, Melbourne, Adelaide, Redcliffe, Townsville, Sydney, Darwin, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Hervey Bay, Kingscliff, Gladstone, Port Douglas, and the Gold and Sunshine Coast.
In partnership with Experience Oz, Oaks is also putting guests in the driver’s seat when it comes to choosing how they holiday, with a 10 per cent saving on their choice of hundreds of unique, local and unforgettable experiences on every booking.
Hunter Valley’s most prestigious estate reopens as voco™ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
voco™ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley has today opened its doors as Australia’s second voco™ hotel following the completion of a refresh and rebrand to IHG’s newest upscale brand, voco. Renowned as one of the Hunter Valley’s most prestigious estates, the 70-room property now embodies the bold characteristics of voco, with exclusive features from its bright yellow accents to onsite beehives and distinctive hallmarks, setting it apart for a memorable stay.
Already a much-loved destination for locals and visitors alike, Kirkton Park estate reigns on 70 acres of rolling countryside and scenic mountain views, and just minutes away from the region’s most popular wineries.
Every guest will experience voco’s signature ‘come on in’ warm welcome, promising a swift and simple check-in, dedicated voco hosts available throughout the guest’s stay as resident experts and a locally-inspired welcome gift including home-grown lavender nougat.
andBeyond announces plans for ultimate desert escape
Conservation-led travel company &Beyond has announced grand plans for its rebuild of &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia. Situated in the NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of Southern Africa’s largest private conservation areas and the continent’s only Dark Sky Reserve, the lodge is set to become one of the world’s leading luxury desert escapes.
The updated design ethos pays homage to the surrounding untouched desert landscape and maximises the scenic opportunities for guests while leaving as light a footprint as possible. The new building will comprise a series of glass, rock and steel pavilions built to withstand the extreme elements while providing the ultimate in guest comfort.
Showcasing the splendour and solitude of the desert, ten beautifully-appointed suites will spread out along the curve of the escarpment. Complementing, rather than competing with, the landscape, the glass-fronted suites frame magnificent desert views, while serving as a sophisticated refuge from the harsh desert elements.
Marriott International opens doors to its 7,000th property
Marriott International, Inc. has celebrated the opening of its 7,000th property – The St. Regis Hong Kong.
The stunning, 27-storey luxury hotel, which features butler service, and multiple restaurants, is emblematic of Marriott’s global expansion strategy, which focuses on the highest lodging tiers as well as fast-growing international markets such as Hong Kong.
The company’s first property, the Twin Bridges Marriott, opened in 1957 and was a four-storey motor hotel in Arlington, Virginia.
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth an ambassador of modern French style
Now in her 53rd year, one of Sydney’s grand old dames, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, is ready to unveil her most stylish yet understated makeover, as she steps into 2019 with a major technology overhaul to rival some of Sydney’s newest hotels.
To celebrate, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth welcomes guests to experience the new facilities over the Easter break with rates starting from $613 per room based on a 3-night stay, saving up to 25 per cent.
The six-month revitalisation project commenced in October 2018 and has just been completed, with all 436 guestrooms and suites receiving the most attention with a stylish makeover. With a chic soft grey palate and muted tones throughout, the sophisticated guestrooms feature new upholstered bedheads, artworks, carpets and high backed fabric armchairs with matching ottomans.
Mood lighting and soft flowing floor to ceiling curtains create an ambiance, working harmoniously to form the perfect zone for sleep, relaxation or working away from the office.
Latest News
Amora Brisbane undergoes $30m remodelling, geared up for MICE offerings
When $30m goes into an amazing hotel to get it geared up for MICE offerings, that's amore!
Corporate Travel Management’s CEO Laura Ruffles steps down
CTM confirmed that Ruffles will be stepping down due to a personal health issue, effective immediately.
Qatar Airways crowned World’s Best MICE Airline at World MICE Awards
You could say Qatar Airways really 'nabbed the cheese' with this one! Alright, we'll see ourselves out...
Qantas, Jetstar & Virgin hike airfares as supplier costs inflate
Supplier increases means you'll pay more. It's like pass the parcel, but instead of getting a present, you owe money.
NSW Central Coast wins global sustainability award for promoting ecotourism at ITB
NSW Central Coast jumped the gun on St. Patricks Day and got the green celebrations going early!
PHOTOS: RuPaul’s Drag Race stars hit Kings Canyon for Priscilla’s 30th anniversary
The stars have renamed the iconic spot 'Queens Canyon'. No name change to the adjacent 'Priscilla's Crack', however.
Air NZ to suspend Auckland-Chicago route amid aircraft troubles
Sorry Kiwis, your craving for authentic deep dish pizza will go unsatiated (or you could just fly with another airline).
Tasmanian Premier promises to build the world’s largest chocolate fountain if re-elected
If only sticky 6-year-old children could vote. Then the Tassie Premier would be guaranteed a victory!
The staggering amount invested in 2022/23 Australian tourism projects revealed!
Any guesses on how much it was? We'll give you a hint: It's between $1 and $9 trillion (hope this helps).
Marriott’s Bonvoy Lounge makes it a 5-peat at Formula 1 in Melbourne
If Formula 1 is so good, then why isn't there a Formula 2? Oh there is one... Never mind.
Virgin Australia posts $236m profit, but the outgoing CEO warns of turbulence ahead
Hrdlicka warns of tough times ahead, just after announcing she's leaving. We wonder if there could be a connection!
Ascott opens new 255 room property in Central Sydney
Bored of your bedroom and want 255 new ones to try? The new Ascott property is here to solve this very specific problem!
Work and play at the Radisson RED, Auckland
We aren't going to tell you what order to work and play in, just that you should be looking to do both at Radisson Red.
Swiftonomics 101: Just how much did fans spend travelling to see Taylor Swift?
Thought you'd heard the last of Swift, huh? Not in your Wildest Dreams could Swiftomania go out of Style!
Rex posts a $13.3m turnaround for 1H24, but still at a loss
Rex is slowly making its way back to pre-pandemic form. Much like us with our sporadic attempts at exercise.
Destination NSW launches new corporate website to boost visitor economy
No plans this afternoon? Take the new DNSW site for a test drive and click as many buttons as you can.
Star posts a $9m half-year profit despite ongoing legal woes
Star has defied expectations! Kind of like Steven Bradbury, but without the shiny gold medal for proof.
100,000 + to descend on Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for BBC experience
As staunch Sydney-siders, this is hard to admit, but it looks like Melbourne put on a great show!
Swift and the gang pump up Accor’s biggest weekend since Sydney 2000
By 'the gang', we mean Blink-182 and Sail GP, which we can agree are not as captivating as Taylor Swift right now.
Taiwan Lantern Festival lights up Tainan with 15 million visitors in its sights
We'd say the festival "went off with a bang" but it was actually an eco-friendly LED light display. Still cool though.
Capacity the key to Government’s new free trade agreement deal with UAE
Could the government soon be begging for carriers to request more flights? How things can change in just 12 months!
AIME returns to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre with refreshed tradeshow
Attendees presented with their best networking smiles and small talk at the ready.
W Hotels celebrates five years of pride with Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
We're sure that in hindsight, W Sydney questions why it wasn't finished in time for World Pride in Sydney last year.
Qantas announces drop in profits and focus on people in 1H24 results
Vanessa Hudson's first set of financial results indicate billions of dollars debt. Only up from here, right?
Air New Zealand’s profit drops 39% as operational challenges persist
A bit of hard yakka is needed for Air NZ to turn things around. Do Kiwis say 'hard yakka'? Ehh, they'll figure it out.
Accommodation Australia reveals new chair of its national board
By this we mean a chairman, not a chair type. Though the swivel ones where you can adjust the back would be our pick.
CTM nearly doubles earnings in 1H24, announces rigorous five year plan
Our original five year plan was to "keep chilling and having fun," but the bosses said this wasn't business appropriate.
Star Sydney’s licence once again at risk after regulator launches second inquiry
Looks like punters might have to look elsewhere if they want to gamble. Most pubs should suffice.
Leisure & corporate travel hits 4-year high, FCM Consulting data shows
The downside? The ever-declining chance of getting a row to yourself on an international flight.
Tourism WA announces new initiatives to kick-start ‘dream decade’
This 'dream decade' will be a good thing, unlike our dreams which keep involving Freddy Krueger.
CTM taps energy industry titan as new global CFO
He's gone from energy to travel, which isn't much of a change when you consider how electric our industry is!
Industry maven Maeve Thomas commences membership and sponsorship manager role at ABEA
Thomas joins the team with 35 years under her belt! That's not a bad bit of experience if you ask us.
NSW Premier urges visitors to venture beyond Sydney Harbour, Bondi Beach
NSW Premier reckons his state is the place to visit! Though we've heard he's got a soft spot for Surfers Paradise.
Airfares may have dropped, but so has customer service: ACCC
Airlines not realised the phrase "you get what you pay for" only applies when people weren't already being overcharged.
Australia a big winner in evergrowing Indian aviation market
India's success is Australia's success! Unlike when we beat them in the ODI final last year.
Book ahead and bring carry-on only: Corporate Traveller’s top cost-saving travel tips revealed
Thought you knew all you needed to know for corporate travel? Eat a slice of humble pie right here!