Scottsdale Hyatt Regency Completes $50 mil Renovation

SCOTTSDALE, AZ, December 15, 2008 – Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch kicks off the holiday season with a welcoming gift for its guests - the completion of the third and final phase of a $50 million transformation featuring a new contemporary look and upscale services and amenities. The final phase of the superb resort-wide transformation was completed with the striking renovation of guestrooms, suites, and casitas, the newly redesigned Vaquero Ballroom and new Executive Boardroom, as well as the addition of a $575,000 solar hot water system.

An expansive, 27-acre resort framed by the majestic McDowell Mountains, Hyatt Regency Scottsdale has long offered an authentic guest experience, now heightened by the nature-inspired redesign of all 492 guestrooms, suites and casitas as well as newly reinvigorated meeting and event spaces. Taken together, the resort's three-phase renewal project includes: the award-winning Spa Avania ; a contemporary new lobby and Lobby Bar; inviting dining options including two new restaurants – SWB, a southwest bistro and Alto ristorante e bar; and a new Camp Hyatt Kachina area with fun, vibrant and educational activities for the resort's youngest guests.

"At Hyatt Regency Scottsdale, the guest experience has always been our first priority," said Michael Stephens, general manager, Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa. "With a contemporary redesign and exceptional services and amenities, we are able to offer our guests everything they expect and more when we welcome them to our resort. We are excited for our guests to experience the new Hyatt Regency Scottsdale."

Guestrooms, suites and casitas
Taking cues from the Sonoran Desert, the property's guestrooms and suites were remodeled by Indidesign, an award-winning design firm out of Santa Monica, California. The rooms evoke a sense of place with sandy beige and green-toned highlights that reference the local landscape and the resort itself. Environmentally-friendly appointments such as sustainable textiles and water-efficient faucets have been integrated throughout the guestrooms as well as the resort. New highlights of the guestrooms incorporate contemporary yet comfortable new custom furnishings with accents of wengue wood, Hyatt's signature Grand Bed, and 37-inch LCD television. Bathrooms are now more spacious and highlighted by hand-hammered metal sinks, natural granite countertops, and wood-framed doors of frosted glass.

The resort's casitas, which are each 1,000 square feet, offer stunning mountain, golf or garden views. The newly designed casitas are configured from one-to-four bedrooms and reflect contemporary, comfortable and luxurious appointments with an understated look and feel of an intimate family retreat. The open living room and dining area are accented with caramel and deep yellow colors, with natural media and dark wood tones and materials providing inviting spaces. Residential-style details feature artful wood tiles on the wood-burning fireplaces and custom sofas with woven leather frames by Indidesign. Casita bathrooms are dressed up with unique porcelain tile listello mosaics to complement natural granite countertops, high-end European faucets, hand-hammered metal sinks and more. Outdoor patio areas and access to the Regency Club are also highlights of the casitas.

A new artwork program of locally inspired photography creates focal points and noticeable touches throughout the resort. Guestrooms feature framed black-and-white photos of indigenous plant species, while framed black-and-white details from local architecture and various Frank Lloyd Wright projects have been placed throughout all public spaces.

Function Spaces
The new Vaquero Ballroom is a 14,000 square-foot, multi-functional event space that can be transformed into 10 individual breakout rooms. The largest event space on property, the Vaquero Ballroom can accommodate up to 1,030 people comfortably for banquet style programs. The new Executive Boardroom is equipped with a "smart table" with built-in plug-ins for audio, visual and additional technological capabilities. There is also a 50 inch flat screen television on one wall for viewing presentations. The Executive Boardroom can seat up to 22 people. The room features its own kitchen alcove for food and beverage service, offering ease and convenience for small business meetings. In addition, the resort's 12,000 square-foot Arizona Ballroom can host 800 people for a seated event or 1,200 for a classic reception.

Solar Hot Water System
The installation of the solar hot water system is the first of several projects over the next three-year period to reduce overall gas consumption by 30% and electrical consumption by 40%. This system is one of the largest in the country, created and installed by Novan Solar Inc., of Golden, Colorado. The Novan system is part of an energy-reduction project designed by the Hartman Company of Austin, Texas.

Address Opens Sky Lounge in Dubai

DUBAI. UAE, December 29, 2008. The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai, the flagship property of The Address Hotels + Resorts and the newest hotel brand in the international luxury hospitality scene, has opened Neos, the highest lounge in Dubai city.

Located on the 63rd floor, Neos offers panoramic 360 degree views across the city. The name is derived from Greek 'neo' meaning new and 'eos' meaning dawn, bringing a fresh venue to Dubai's social scene.

Cora De Conceicao-Stuart, Hotel Manager, explained: "We wanted to portray exclusivity in designing Neos and defining it as a venue dedicated to glamour and luxury. It is a 'must see' destination for residents and visitors to Dubai."

The hotel's interior designers WA International have taken an inspirational trip into the past and created a space that has roots in Art Deco with a contemporary twist. Guests are immediately drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows opening to Burj Dubai - the world's tallest tower and spectacular sights of Dubai.

Tasteful touches inside Neos include the black granite infused with reflective quartz, giving a twinkling starlight effect. Crystal chandeliers enhance the starburst effect while a fibre optic light curtain surrounds the high gloss black lacquer lift case, adding to the dramatic shimmering 'feel'.

The decor is enhanced by six meter high columns made out of mirror polished stainless steel cladding which are down-lit, creating a highly striking effect. Complementing the design features are furnishings which are understatedly elegant and in a monochromatic colour palette with blacks, silvers and greys, enlivened with rich wine for contrast and warmth.

The menu reflects the hotel's philosophy of 'Where Life Happens'. Dishes include French oysters and Boston lobster, while the world caviar selection is a highlight. Open daily from 6pm to 2am Neos offers delicacies such as Homemade Duck Proscuito with Foie Gras terrine and Wagyu beef croquette.

The 196-room flagship hotel opened in October 2008 and is situated in the heart of what has been hailed as the most exclusive square kilometre development in the world. The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai will be joined by two sister properties, The Address, Dubai Mall and The Address, Dubai Marina in 2009.

Carlson Country Inn Opens in Meridian, MS

MINNEAPOLIS, MN, December 29, 2008 - The new 64-room Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Meridian has opened its doors for business at 538 Bonita Lakes Drive in Meridian, Miss.

"We're very excited to bring the Country Inns & Suites By Carlson concept to this region," said Steve Mogck, executive vice president and brand leader for Country Inns & Suites By Carlson. "All employees will participate in the Country Inns & Suites 'Be Our Guest' service training program, to ensure consistent delivery of quality customer service at our hotels."

"This new Country Inn & Suites By Carlson is a wonderful addition to our community. We are confident that this recognized brand and lodging concept will help us grow and prosper in the future," said Jim Barrett, general manager of the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson in Meridian. The owner of the hotel is Meridian CIS, LLC.

The hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness center. Other amenities include a complimentary hot continental breakfast and a 12-person capacity meeting room with available fax and copy service. The hotel offers a variety of guest rooms including standard rooms, studio suites, one bedroom suites and an extended stay suite. All rooms feature complimentary wired and wireless high-speed Internet access, hair dryer, 32" flat panel television, microwave and refrigerator. This Country Inn & Suites property is conveniently located off I-20, less than 7 miles from Key Field Airport. The hotel is close to golf courses, tennis courts, a soccer complex, a performing arts center, a shopping mall, and several museums.

GS Building an Embassy Suites in Kennesaw, GA

ATLANTA, GA, December 21, 2008 – GS Development LLC today announced that the structural framework has been completed for its new 192-suite Version 3 Embassy Suites by Hilton hotel currently under construction in the Village at Town Park mixed use complex in Kennesaw, Georgia. Located at 620 Chastain Rd, the seven story hotel will boast a beautifully appointed, unique design with generous gracious spaces and full service hotel amenities.

The opening of this distinctive new Embassy Suites hotel is scheduled for October 2009. Holder Construction serves as the contractor for the approximately 44 million dollar turn-key project. The hotel will be owned by Town Park Hotel LLC. GS Hospitality LLC, a leading hotel management company, will manage the hotel.

When completed, the new Embassy Suites by Hilton – Atlanta/Kennesaw hotel will provide guests with a full complement of services and amenities, including 6,580 square feet of stunning flexible meeting and event space. The largest meeting room, approximately 5,500 square feet, will accommodate meetings and social events for up to 500 people. In addition, the hotel will boast an on-site, in-house Ruth’s Chris restaurant, which will offer the convenience of delectable lunch and dinner selections, served seven days a week. Ruth’ s Chris will also prepare all customized food and beverage for the hotel, including in-house room service and all meetings and events held in the meeting space.

The Embassy Suites Kennesaw hotel is located in The Village at Town Park, a mixed-use community with shopping, dining and business offices conveniently accessible within walking distance. The hotel is easily accessible from major Routes I- 575 and I-75, approximately twenty miles northwest of Atlanta. Kennesaw State University, the second largest university in the state of Georgia, is just one mile away, and McCullom Field Airport and the Kennesaw Town Center Mall are within two miles.

NRA's Top 10 Hot Trends in 2009

WASHINGTON, DC, December 19, 2008 - Restaurant industry sales are expected to reach $566 billion in 2009, with the industry employing 13 million individuals in 945,000 restaurant-and-foodservice outlets nationwide, according to the National Restaurant Association's 2009 Restaurant Industry Forecast released today. The Forecast projects that while overall restaurant industry sales will increase in current dollars by 2.5 percent over 2008 figures, the numbers translate to an inflation-adjusted decline of 1.0 percent. Despite the economic downturn, the industry will remain a cornerstone of the economy, representing 4 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product and employing 9 percent of the U.S. workforce, and restaurants will continue to adapt to the latest menu trends and consumer preferences.

“The restaurant industry is both innovative and resilient,” said Dawn Sweeney, President and CEO of the Association. “In the year ahead, the industry’s sales are projected to continue to increase, with a total economic impact that exceeds $1.5 trillion, yet at the same time, the industry is experiencing unprecedented challenges due to the economic recession and elevated food prices. Americans will continue to rely on restaurants as a key part of their lifestyle as the industry provides the food, value and service customers seek. Nearly half of consumers’ food budget will be spent in restaurants, rewarding the continued responsiveness and innovation that our industry provides to budget-conscious Americans.”

Industry Segment Growth
Sales at fullservice restaurants are projected to reach $182.9 billion in 2009, an increase of 1.0 percent over 2008. Quickservice restaurants are projected to post sales of $163.8 billion in 2009, a gain of 4.0 percent over 2008. Eating-and-drinking places will see an increase in sales from 2008 of 2.2 percent, totaling $395 billion.

Workforce Trends
Even in today’s economy, restaurants remain a generator of jobs and careers. Employment in the restaurant industry outpaced the overall economy in 2008 for the ninth consecutive year, despite several months of modest industry job losses, and is expected to continue to outpace the economy in 2009.

The Association projects that the industry will employ 13 million people in 2009 as the nation’s second largest private sector employer, representing more than 9 percent of the nation’s total jobs. The long-term outlook is for continued growth—the industry is expected to add an additional 1.8 million positions over the next 10 years, boosting the industry’s workforce by 14 percent to 14.8 million people in 2019. Restaurant industry job growth will actually grow faster than the U.S. population, particularly in the key demographics of teens and young adults. Occupations that will grow considerably in the next decade include management positions, chefs and head cooks, and waitstaff.

State Outlook
Texas will post the fastest sales growth at 4.0 percent in 2009 ($35.0 billion), followed by Nevada at 3.5 percent ($5.2 billion); Colorado at 3.4 percent ($8.4 billion); New Mexico at 3.3 percent ($2.7 billion); and Arizona at 3.2 percent ($8.7 billion).

The top states by restaurant sales volume in 2009 will be:
California at $56.2 billion;
Texas at $35.0 billion;
New York at $27.8 billion;
Florida at $27 billion; and
Illinois at $18.8 billion.
Texas, Nevada and Florida are expected to experience the fastest growth in restaurant-industry jobs between 2009 and 2019, expanding their restaurant workforces by roughly 23 percent—far faster than the 14 percent growth rate expected for restaurant jobs nationally in this period.

Consumer and Menu Trends
Association research shows that Americans today are looking for restaurants that deliver value, convenience and healthier options. Surveys of restaurant operators, customers and chefs indicate that restaurateurs will sharpen their appeal in the coming year by reaching out to health-conscious guests as well as to the growing number of diners who are interested in how and where their food was produced. Among top trends restaurateurs see for 2009 are an expanded focus on value, healthy options in kids’ meals, locally sourced items and green initiatives.

What’s Hot Chef’s Survey:
1) Locally grown produce 89%
2) Bite-size/mini desserts 83%
3) Organic produce 82%
4) Nutritionally balanced children’s dishes 81%
5) New/fabricated cuts of meat 78% (e.g. Denver steak, pork flat iron, bone-in Tuscan veal chop)
6)Fruit/vegetable children’s side items 74%
7) Superfruits 73% (e.g. acai, goji berry, mangosteen)
8) Small plates/tapas/mezze/dim sum 73%
9)Micro-distilled/artisan liquor 73%
10)Sustainable seafood 71%

According to new Association research, healthy kids’ meals will be among the hottest trends in 2009. Out of nearly 210 culinary items listed on the Association’s “What’s Hot” survey of more than 1,600 American Culinary Federation member chefs, nutritionally balanced children’s dishes came in as the No. 4 trend, and fruit/vegetable side items for kids ranked sixth. In a separate survey, quickservice operators named healthy options in kids meals as the No. 1 food trend in the segment in 2009.
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Overall, chefs ranked nutrition/health as the No. 11 trend on restaurant menus for 2009. Underscoring the importance of healthful foods, produce and fruit items, smaller dishes, fish, and gluten-free/allergy-conscious meals were all among the top-20 items on the third-annual chef survey. According to Association consumer research, three in four adults say they are trying to eat healthier now at restaurants than they did two years ago. Nearly three in 10 adults – 27 percent – have gone online to search for nutrition information about restaurant food, up from 24 percent a year ago.

The No. 1 trend for 2009 is local produce, according to the “What’s Hot” chef survey. The local-foods trend has become particularly popular at fine-dining establishments. According to the Association’s research, 89 percent of fine-dining operators serve locally sourced items, and nine in 10 believe demand for locally sourced items will grow in their segment in the future. Close to three in 10 quickservice operators serve locally sourced items now and nearly half believe these items will grow more popular in their segment in the future. Seventy percent of adults say they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers locally produced food items.

Restaurateurs will also continue to show increasing leadership in becoming “greener” in 2009— by taking action such as reducing energy and water use—in step with patrons’ interest in environmental issues. About four in 10 fullservice-restaurant operators and nearly three in 10 quickservice operators say they plan to devote more of their 2009 budgets to green initiatives. Restaurant patrons like the idea: 44 percent surveyed recently said they are likely to make a restaurant choice based on an operation’s practices in the areas of energy and water conservation.

Entering 2009, the Forecast projects that consumers feel tugged in two directions. On one hand, consumers express serious concern about finances, with nearly all surveyed reporting that they are more worried about the economy than they were the year before. On the other hand, consumers remain strongly desirous of continued—and even increased—use of restaurants.

Forty-five percent of adults say restaurants are an essential part of their lifestyle, one of three say they are not eating out as often as they wish, and 35 percent of adults say that on a weekly basis, they are not purchasing take-out foods to go or having it delivered as often as they would like.

To be successful during the present economic downturn and prepare for an eventual recovery with its pent-up demand for restaurant services, restaurant operators are offering the value patrons desire in conjunction with operational improvements that cut costs without detracting from the dining experience. Indeed, the top trend restaurateurs see for 2009 is an expanded focus on value, with 36 percent of quickservice operators and 16 percent of casual-dining operators seeing the demand for value as the year’s top trend in their segment.

The restaurant industry’s resilience amidst the weak economy and relative strength compared to other industries is driven by restaurants responsiveness to consumers’ desire for convenience, value and socialization. The increasingly essential nature of restaurant services buoys the industry even during times of economic uncertainty: Nearly seven in 10 adults agreed in a recent National Restaurant Association survey that purchasing meals from restaurants, take-out and delivery places makes it easier for families with children to manage their day-to-day lives, and nearly eight in 10 agreed that going out to a restaurant with family and/or friends gives them an opportunity to socialize and is a better way for them to make use of their leisure time rather than cooking at home.

The National Restaurant Association, founded in 1919, is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which is comprised of 945,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets and a work force of 13 million employees - making it the cornerstone of the economy, career opportunities and community involvement. Along with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, the Association works to represent, educate and promote the rapidly growing industry.

Cosy and Intimate Valentine's at The Fleming

Overnight Stay Including Dinner for two for Just HK$1,688

(Hong Kong, December 30, 2008) -- Hong Kong’s chic ‘urban lifestyle hotel’, The Fleming, is offering a Valentine's package for two including a romantic candlelit dinner and breakfast at just HK$1,688 from 7-15 February.

Staying in a premium executive room or deluxe room, guests will enjoy a welcoming bottle of sparkling wine, a floral bouquet, home-made Valentine’s Day cookies, an aroma selection of choice, luxury L’Occitane bath amenities and a selection of romantic DVD movies.

Dinner for two at The Fleming's intimate restaurant Cubix is alone valued at HK$999 and makes the perfect setting for a candlelit dinner for two.

The set dinner starts with an appetizer combination of Serrano ham with white jelly, crab with avocado and King Prawn, followed by a cream of asparagus soup.

A refreshing champagne sorbet introduces main course choices of either grilled beef tenderloin or French duck confit with port wine sauce. A "sweet heart dessert" completes the romantic dinner, with petit fours and coffee or tea.

Along with continental breakfast, late check-out till 3pm is also included, subject to availability, and guests even have complimentary entry to nearby California Fitness.

In addition are complimentary extras that guests enjoy during every stay at The Fleming including complimentary local calls, daily newspaper and both wired and wireless broadband internet access.

The Valentines package is available on a first-come-first-served basis at the award-winning 66-room boutique hotel in Wan Chai and prices are subject to a 10% service charge.

About The Fleming
The Fleming opened two years ago in a quiet side-street in the heart of the Wan Chai business and entertainment district.

It was last year ranked on Condé Nast Traveller’s “Hot List 2007” as one of the world’s best new hotels, and as a finalist of SCMP/Harper’s Bazaar Style Awards Best Boutique Hotel of the Year 2007.

The boutique hotel targets international executives and frequent business travelers with affordable accommodation, up-to-date technology, contemporary facilities and a stylish address. Its key philosophy is exceptionally friendly and attentive personalised service.

It is a member of Sterling Hotels™, a collection of hotels with sterling personality from Preferred Hotel Group™.

To book the Valentine's package, please contact the Reservation Department at (852) 3607 2225.


The Fleming is at:
41 Fleming Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 3607 2288
Fax: (852) 3607 2299
Email: sales@thefleming.com
www.thefleming.com.hk

Starwood Opens Three Le Meridien Properties in Asia

Starwood has announced the opening of three Le Meridien properties in Asia Pacific. The debut of Le Meridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa marks the brand's second resort in China, while Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort and Le Meridien Chiang Mai further expand the brand's growing portfolio in northern Thailand.

All three properties offer a culturally rich environment combined with superior service designed to inspire the creative guest.

"Le Meridien is proud to broaden its reach in Asia Pacific with the addition of these three stunning properties, where guests can enjoy a unique experience that combines contemporary European refinement with distinct Asian influences curated by Le Meridien's Cultural Curator and a range of established and emerging innovators, part of LM100," said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts and W Hotels Worldwide. "A favorite among progressive, curious, open minded and forward-thinking international travelers, Le Meridien facilitates guest discovery of a new perspective of the arts, architecture, design, and cuisine at each of its destinations around the world. Hainan Island in China and Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in northern Thailand will certainly provide fertile ground for this voyage of discovery."

"We are thrilled to announce the opening of these three stunning Le Meridien hotels in Thailand and China, two of world's most exhilarating destinations," said Miguel Ko, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. "Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are both well known for their stunning landscape and rich cultural offerings while Shimei Bay is an unspoilt getaway for travelers to Hainan Island, with spectacular views of the South China Sea, and surrounded by lush forest and rustic Li minority village. These locations are a great fit with Le Meridien brand, which is committed to providing guests with an interactive and culturally enriching experience."

All three new Le Meridien hotels will feature Le Meridien's newly introduced Arrival Experience for guests. This curated experience will commence from the moment the guest arrives at the hotel until they have opened the door to their guest room. The arrival experience includes the Transitional Portal, which is a visual and audio "wall" of sound and art that will engulf each guest; Sensory Experience illustrated through Le Meridien's signature scent, sound and use of light; Unlock Art program that includes an artist designed key card that offers access to the guest room and to Le Meridien's affiliated art organizations; and lastly the Elevated Experience, which transforms the event of riding an elevator into an "elevating experience" through video and sound.

The opening of these three new Le Meridien properties highlights the significant development of the brand in Asia Pacific. Le Meridien currently operates 23 hotels in the region, including, Le Royal Meridien Shanghai and Le Meridien Cyberport, Hong Kong.

Premier Inn to Launch Floating Budget Hotel

Budget hotel chain Premier Inn has unveiled plans for its innovative ‘Floatel’ (floating budget hotel) - a first for the British budget hotel industry.

Britain’s largest budget hotel chain aims to build the ‘Floatel’ in Hartlepool Marina during 2009. It will be the first time a budget hotel has been purpose-built on water.

Premier Inn chiefs say that the planned hotel will offer the same quality and value of its other 556 hotels – but with the added benefit of a waterfront view.

The ‘Floatel’ is needed because there is a growing demand for additional hotel accommodation in the Hartlepool Marina area but little viable building space on-land. The new hotel will have 54 bedrooms, each able to accommodate two adults and two children under 16, and will feature ensuite bathroom, TV and Internet access, as is standard in all Premier Inns.

Guests will avoid the risk of sea sickness because the hotel’s special design means it will float vertically with the tide; while the horizontal movement will be restricted by sleeved piles driven into the marina.

And anyone arriving late at night wouldn’t need a boat trip in order to check-in: the waterfront hotel will be linked to an existing Premier Inn on the quayside by a pedestrian ramp and an external platform lift.

The proposed development would contribute to both the re-development of the area, and the creation of 25 jobs. In addition to this, it is also planned to use the area underneath the new Premier Inn as additional space for the local University.

Premier Inn’s Property Director, Mark Anderson, says, “As Britain’s leading hotel company, we’re always looking for new ways to ensure we have great hotels; wherever they’re needed.”

Hilton Signs Agreement to Debut Conrad in Bahrain

DECEMBER 22, 2008 - Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced that it has signed a management agreement with Diyar Al Bahrain, to open the first Conrad hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain in 2011.

The Conrad Bahrain, will be located in one of Bahrain's most luxurious developments, the newly-built Reef Island off Bahrain's capital city Manama and will feature 250 guest rooms and 50 apartments.

Ross Klein, Global Head, Hilton Family of Hotels, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands said, "This announcement emphasises our goal to really strengthen our luxury offering on a global scale. The Conrad Bahrain epitomises the Conrad lifestyle with its high-tech offerings, distinct modern design, best-in-class service and customised experiences. The hotel will build on the successes of the Conrad Cairo and will also complement our hotels under development; Conrad Dubai and Conrad Abu Dhabi."

Mr Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Jasmi, Chairman of Diyar Al Bahrain said, "We are delighted to have signed this landmark management agreement with Hilton Hotels Corporation for the launch of the first Conrad hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This alliance is the result of extensive due diligence and hospitality industry analysis. The Conrad brand supported by the strong Hilton engine really epitomises luxury, and is in perfect synergy with Diyar Al Bahrain's business strategy of developing value- added alliances in all areas of operations."

Bahrain is the Gulf region's financial hub and offers zero corporate tax policy for businesses and a transparent regulatory system. Located a short distance from Manama's Central Business District and the Bahrain Financial Harbour, the Conrad Bahrain will be a key destination for business travellers.

The hotel will offer easy accessibility to the international airport, to the new sea port and to the causeway to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A new causeway, set to be the longest bridge connection in the world, and scheduled to complete in 2013, will provide an additional link between Bahrain and Qatar.

Jean-Paul Herzog, President, Hilton Hotels, Middle East & Africa said, "Bahrain's tourism industry is gaining significant momentum with a 15% increase in visitors last year. High-profile international events such as the Formula One Grand Prix have established Bahrain on the tourism map. The signing of Conrad Bahrain is yet another step forward in achieving a Hilton Family hotel in every major city. We will target the strong corporate market, and GCC leisure and business segment, thanks to the hotel's close proximity to downtown Manama, the financial district as well as its accessibility to Saudi Arabia."

The Conrad will also offer its business guests unparalleled meeting facilities, including a business centre incorporating the latest technology, six sizeable meeting rooms, two banquet rooms and an impressive ballroom. To wind down, guests will be able to enjoy the hotel's shopping arcade or utilise the fitness facilities, including a tennis court, squash court, swimming pool and health club. Reef Island's features will also include, among other attractions, open parks, an Aquarium, a luxury shopping mall, a marina and a Yacht club.

The Conrad Bahrain will boast impressive dining facilities, including a stylish all-day dining outlet, and three speciality restaurants featuring international cuisine. The hotel will also offer two bars, a coffee shop and a shisha cafe for a unique flavour of the region.

"We have also established Diyafa Holding, a Bahrain-based closed shareholding company catering to the Kingdom's increasing demand for tourism and hospitality facilities. We are therefore focused on growing this alliance with Hilton Hotels Corporation," continued Mr Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Jasmi.

Atieh Hamarneh, CEO of Diyafa said, "Diyafa's objective is to be a leading developer of hospitality facilities including hotels, resorts, spas and real estate residential communities in the region with a global footprint. We have a strong commitment to the communities in which we operate in, and we will be guided by an unwavering pursuit of excellence to build great properties for our clientele."

Today's news reflects Conrad Hotels & Resorts fast moving expansion in the Middle East and globally, with the Conrad Dubai and the Conrad Abu Dhabi set to open in Q4 2010 and Q2 2011 respectively, alongside plans to introduce new Conrad hotels in Shanghai, the Bahamas, Thailand, Beijing and Portugal.

An Intimate Valentine’s Day at IVY Shanghai

(Shanghai, December 29, 2008) – Chic boutique hotel IVY Shanghai is offering couples an ‘Urban Romance’ Valentine’s Day Getaway Package for just RMB 760.

Lovebirds can retreat to the fun, flamboyant surrounds of an IVY Deluxe room, with complimentary breakfast. To set the mood for romance, rooms also come with a bottle of Champagne, long-stem red roses, a box of chocolates and an exotic fruit plate.

The Valentine’s Day ‘Urban Romance’ Getaway Package is available for the entire Valentine’s Week, from February 10-17, 2009.
For those who want to enjoy a romantic sizzling affair, Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, Kuromastsu, at IVY Shanghai is also offering a Valentine’s seven-course set menu including prime cuts of US tenderloin, foie gras and king prawns cooked teppanyaki style. A signature IVY cocktail and free-flowing sparkling Rose accompanies the romantic candlelit meal.

Valentine’s Day Candlelight Dinner is priced at RMB 588 per couple, including a long-stemmed red rose and box of chocolates for each couple.


[About IVY Shanghai]
The 46-room boutique hotel IVY Shanghai transforms a converted 1950s cinema, just a short stroll from the shopping and business hub of Nanjing West Road.

The hotel’s bold styling by American-French designer Dillon Garris vamps up the interplay of ancient and modern Chinese design with funky lipstick-red lattice screens, grey brick walls reminiscent of Shanghai lanes and China pop art.

IVY Shanghai’s signature restaurant Kuromastsu is tucked away in true Japanese style behind the lobby. Heading the kitchen is chef Kevin Lee, formerly of Hong Kong’s premier teppanyaki restaurant, Matsubishi.

The 60-seat dining room centres around a seven-chef teppanyaki grill serving classic teppanyaki prepared in traditional style using both seasonal local produce and top-quality imported ingredients.

The hotel also features a whimsical private coffee bar and wifi lounge in a sky-lit atrium on the second floor, where the cinema's original screen once stood.

IVY Shanghai is the first mainland China hotel by CHI - International, a luxury Asian hotel management firm that operates unique resorts and serviced apartments throughout Hong Kong and Fiji.

The Jalousie Enclave Launches In St. Lucia

Pascal Mahvi, the developer of the Jalousie Plantation Resort & Spa, and hospitality expert Monty Zullo announce the development of an exclusive Residential Resort Community in the heart of the Val des Pitons on the island of St. Lucia. The Jalousie Enclave, the only residential development on Jalousie Bay, will be the first “green” resort in the world offering buyers the opportunity to own property in a designated World Heritage Site.

It is the collaboration between Mr. Mahvi, with his significant experience in the high-end resort industry and Mr. Zullo, the creative force behind famed New York institutions Doubles and Maxims that produced The Jalousie Enclave. Their pedigree and expertise within the hospitality arena will set a new standard of luxury for the second and third home investor.

“The Jalousie Enclave will fuse the natural splendor of St. Lucia with first-class amenities to create a truly unique residential resort experience,” said Pascal Mahvi. “This unprecedented opportunity to own a home in a World Heritage Site is extraordinary.”


The residential resort is located in one of the most meticulously preserved natural environments in the world. This limited collection of 21 two or three-bedroom villas and 52 estates is situated within a World Heritage Site designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2004. The 196-acre property is nestled in the Val des Pitons, on the edge of a pristine rainforest and overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Coral reefs cover almost 60 percent of the UNESCO site’s coastline. A protected marine park in the waters of The Jalousie Enclave’s deeded-access beach offers some of the Caribbean’s most amazing snorkeling and diving.

All structures at The Jalousie Enclave will be built to the United States Green Building Council’s highest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards ensuring the preservation of the area’s protected natural resources. The Jalousie Enclave will complement the natural beauty of its surroundings with carefully designed homes, amenities and landscaping. Low-hanging fruit trees will be planted to aid natural runoff; and drainage catchments on the mountainsides have stopped erosion. As a true model for sustainable living, The Jalousie Enclave will use filtered “gray” water in each home’s WCs, solar-powered water heaters and some green roofs.

Each elegant residence can be customized according to individual preferences and requirements. Homes will showcase a high degree of craftsmanship and feature local materials. Properties are sold freehold and owners have the option to rent or re-sell with no restrictions. Every investor in the residential community is provided deeded access to The Jalousie Enclave’s beach. Property management provides turnkey maintenance and staffing of trained butlers, maids and cooks for each estate. Office services, banking and legal advice are also offered and an on-site representative will be available to oversee the lease of a purchased property for its owner.

The Jalousie Enclave will include a world-class spa and two fine dining restaurants in the planned $7 million Clubhouse, as well as a private Club pool and lake. Each lot will come with membership to one of the seven new PGA Golf Clubs and Courses. Transportation to and from the Golf Club will be provided helicopter.

The Luxe Manor’s Romantic Italian Cuisine and Passion Inspired Themed Suite Set the Scene for Valentine’s Day 2009

(Hong Kong, December 23, 2008) – The Luxe Manor, in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, welcomes Valentine’s Day 2009 with a gourmet set dinner, champagne, jazz and the most romantic suite in the hotel on offer.

Available exclusively on Saturday 14th February 2009, the 5-course Valentine’s Dinner at Aspasia has been designed with indulgent romance in mind for HK$1,988 per couple.

To begin the luxurious meal, guests are served Calvisius Caviar on Celery Root Foam, Balik Salmon, Artichoke and Veal Jelly, followed by a White Bean Emulsion with Black Truffle in Serrano Ham and Savoy Cabbage. The indulgence continues with Slow Roasted Lobster served with Asparagus Agnolotti and Lobster Basil Jus, followed by a main course of Wagyu Beef Tenderloin with Morel Mushroom and Pinot Sauce, Foie Gras on Pumpkin and Tangerin Puree. The Valentine’s Dinner is completed with Warm Rosemary Apple Tarte Tatin, Champagne Rose Sorbet, Hazelnut Crisps and Vanilla Espuma.

The Valentine’s Dinner also includes two glasses of after-dinner Champagne served in Dada Bar + Lounge, The Luxe Manor’s new bar, completed with live Jazz music.

For a truly exclusive Valentine’s experience, The Luxe Manor’s ‘Liaison’ suite is available for HK$10,000 a night.

The ‘Liaison’ suite is a romantic love-nest designed for two offering a bespoke round bed built into a curvaceous upholstered wall in soft creams and rich reds including classically inspired details from a by-gone era such as Venetian mirrors. The Liaison suite inspires whispered intimacies of classic romance.

Guest’s benefits exclusively for the suite include round trip limousine transfer from any Hong Kong location, welcome Champagne on arrival, breakfast for two at Aspasia, 24hr butler service, Aspasia Valentine’s dinner in room or in Aspasia, Romantic Jazz at Dada Bar + Lounge, free local calls and wired / wireless internet connection throughout.

All prices are subject to availability and 10% service charge.

Specialising in freshest imported ingredients and memorable cuisine, advanced booking at Aspasia is recommended with reservations at (852) 3763 8800.

The Luxe Manor is managed by GR8 Leisure Concept Ltd., a Hong Kong based hospitality group.

Note to editors: The Luxe Manor (pronounced as deluxe manor) is the complete name of the hotel.

ENJOY ECOTOURISM LUXURY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S OUTBACK

(Hong Kong, 23 December 2008) – In South Australia, fourth-generation Flinders Ranges’ residents Tony and Julieanne Smith have transformed a small struggling sheep station into an award-winning tourism icon that not only attracts 20,000 visitors each year but has also achieved the highest standard of ecotourism accreditation.

Rawnsley Park Station shares a boundary with the dramatic Flinders Ranges National Park and is named for one of the range’s most striking peaks, Rawnsley Bluff – the southern point of Wilpena Pound.

Accommodation includes luxury eco-villas, holiday units, a caravan park and some of the best camp sites in the Flinders Ranges.

Wildlife, birdlife and flora abound on the property, and four-wheel drive tours, bushwalking, scenic flights and cycling are all available with English, French and German speaking guides.

Tony and Julieanne Smith are passionate about the Flinders Ranges and were one of the first tourism operators in South Australia to gain official ecotourism accreditation, as well as being active in the development of the region’s ‘geo-tourism’ sector. The Smiths have also contributed significantly to the Flinders Ranges’ recent declaration as a ‘National Landscape’ by Tourism Australia.

The couple are committed to environmentally responsible and sustainable tourism and have a Heritage Agreement with the South Australian Department of Environment and Heritage in order to protect the diverse vegetation of Rawnsley Bluff. As part of this commitment the couple have ensured there is a dedicated eco-tourism officer on site.

Rawnsley Park Station’s four eco-villas are beautifully designed, inspiring and luxurious, yet have met the highest standards of sustainable design. Another four eco-villas are currently under construction.

The eco-villas have achieved Advanced Ecotourism accreditation, which recognises Australia's leading and most innovative ecotourism products.

Products with this prestigious accreditation provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the environment with an operator who is committed to using resources wisely, contributing to the conservation of the environment and helping local communities.

Key features of the eco-villas’ sustainable design include straw bale walls for insulation, a water waste treatment system that mirrors the action of a rainforest floor and retractable fabric ceilings.

Straw bales were selected to form part of the construction for their thermal insulation properties. In addition to the insulating properties of the straw itself, the rendering of the bales on both sides also helps keep temperature changes to a minimum.

Once described by an Italian travel agent as ‘the most luxurious swag in Australia’, the retractable fabric ceilings in the eco-villas’ bedrooms were inspired by the hessian or calico fabric ceilings used in traditional Australian settler houses. Combined with a covered skylight, these ceilings provide a magical night viewing panel from the bedroom: guests can lie back in bed and gaze up through their ceiling at the stars in the clear southern skies above.

Each villa has a 4,500-litre rainwater tank that provides water for drinking purposes. In addition to this, water is obtained from a bore that draws from the groundwater aquifer. This sandstone aquifer is replenished by water from a dam constructed on the property in 1992.

One of the most vigorously debated decisions when developing the eco-villas was whether to install spas. Tony and Julieanne made the decision that, while spas may have added to the luxury appeal of the accommodation, their use in an environmentally sustainable development could not be justified because of their high water and energy use.

The villas’ Biolytix water waste treatment system uses a polythene tank that has alternate layers of peat soil and polythene tubes, creating an environment where bacteria can naturally treat organic matter. The aerated surface of the holding tank becomes a breeding ground for earthworms that provide the first stage of organic breakdown. Tony and Julieanne have chosen this system because it requires minimal power to operate, while delivering highly treated water suitable for subsurface irrigation. The Biolytix units at Rawnsley Park Station are the first of their type in South Australia.

Tony and Julieanne have been very aware of the fragile nature of the native vegetation on the eco-villa site. The principal plants on the site are Native Pine and Shiny-leaf Hop Bush. Both are arid zone plants that are very slow growing and Tony and Julieanne took great care to ensure that only the minimum vegetation clearance took place during construction of the eco-villas as most of these plants are 50-100 years old and still only 1-3 metres high.

WINTER WARMING SAKE DINNER AT ULTRA HIP WASABISABI, TIMES SQUARE

(Hong Kong – December 23, 2008) – Glamorous Japanese restaurant WasabiSabi in Times Square is serving a sensational warming winter sake dinner from February 1-13, 2009.

Priced at HK$798, the home-style dinner designed by executive chef Tatsuya Iwahashi will match unique seasonal ingredients with rare high quality sakes.

A selection of appetizers begins the dinner including baked sablefish with buckwheat and green tea soup, tomato and mascarpone salad, rice vinegar marinated mackerel 'battera' sushi and slow-baked oxtail – all served with a 'Yamahai-style' Masumi Nanagou No. 7 (Junmai Daiginjo) sake distinguished by its well balanced acidity and delightful contrasts – light, complex and fragrant.

The second course will combine sashimis of minced fatty tuna with avocado sauce, giant botan prawns with spicy yuzu sauce and home-made smoked salmon with Dassal 39% polishing (Junmai Daiginjo), which has a graceful aroma and well rounded flavour better matched to seafood dishes.

A delicious main course of pan-fried Angus beef with burdock sauce and taro fried rice will be best enjoyed with the well matched Rihaku rose sake, a new style of sake emulating Western style rose wine – light and crisp.

Dessert of hot red bean pudding and chest nut ice cream is complimented by a home-made plum wine brewed for 19 months by Chef Iwahashi from a family recipe handed down from his grandmother.

Sometimes called the “drink of the Gods” by the Japanese, sake is not a wine, nor is it a beer or a spirit – rather it is a unique type of fermented alcohol. Good sake goes very well with food, especially light dishes, such as fish, chicken, pasta, and the more premium the variety the more versatile the mix of cuisine can be. The WasabiSabi sake tasting dinner is the perfect opportunity for novices or sake-pros alike to enjoy an introduction to good quality sake paired specifically for taste with top quality seasonal ingredients.

The unique home-style dinner will be served from 6pm onwards from February 1-13, 2009. All prices subject to a 10% service charge.

About WasabiSabi

Behind a glowing red glass façade, on the 13th floor of Times Square is WasabiSabi - easily one of Hong Kong’s sleekest and most glamorous Japanese restaurants

Located in the heart of bustling Times Square, WasabiSabi takes diners on a myriad of journeys both culinary and social. The restaurant was the first in Hong Kong to use communal tables, booth and lounge areas set beyond a sleek under lit catwalk glassed with red façade and glass teardrop lighting.

On one side on the runway, unique seating features C-shaped booths that swivel around for privacy and the other side, the plush red velvet “Lipstick Lounge”.

For private parties, booths can be turned to face each other -- while the centre of the restaurant is dominated by two chic communal tables accommodating parties of 40 or more. Behind the communal tables are more intimate tables for two, a 12-metre long sushi bar and private tatami dining room for groups of up to 16.

Despite the cutting edge design WasabiSabi’s Japanese roots are well respected and this provides a great platform for high quality creative food in a modern design setting.

Appealing to both the palate and the eye, modern signature dishes include Taraba crab and uni tempura with crab roe miso dip; Home-made sesame tofu; Smoked eggplant wrapped in rib-eye fillet; and Carpaccio of sea bream with fresh wasabi red tea jelly and uni fried rice. Traditional favourites such as shioyaki, robatayaki, sushi and sashimi are also incorporated, flown jet-fresh from Tokyo’s Tsukiji market.

WasabiSabi is at Shop 1305, 13/F, Times Square, Causeway Bay.

For further information on aqua restaurant group, please log into its website: www.aqua.com.hk.

For reservations please call (852) 2506 0009
Restaurant opening hours:
Lunch: 12 noon – 3:00pm
Dinner: 6:00pm – 12 midnight

All prices above are subject to 10% service charge.

VIP Duty Free Shopping Package at The Shilla Seoul

(Seoul, December 23, 2008) – South Korea’s leading luxury hotel The Shilla Seoul is offering a promotional shopping package including deluxe accommodation and generous discounts on purchases at their chic and trendy duty free centre.

The ‘Shopping at The Shilla’ package is priced at KRW 280,000 (US$205) and valid until October 31, 2009.

Along with a Deluxe Room with stunning views of Mount Namsan and breakfast for two at The Parkview to enjoy the panoramic views. It includes a VIP Gold Card for the Duty Free Shop, with discounts of 5 to 15 per cent, and a complimentary duty free shopping voucher worth KRW 20,000 (US$15).

Complimentary drinks for two are also included at the hotel's Artisee Café, along with free mobile phone rental and luxury L'Occitane amenities. Package price is plus government tax and service charge.

Consistently voted South Korea’s leading hotel, The Shilla Seoul has been dramatically upgraded to become a leading ‘lifestyle destination’ in South Korea’s vibrant capital, offering improved shopping, dining, health and beauty, weddings and conferences, and superlative business facilities.

Among 500 of the world’s premier brands and top Korean designers at the prestigious new Shilla Duty Free arcade are Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Hermes, S.Ferragamo, Celine, Cartier, Armani, Fendi, Christian Dior, Baly, Rolex, Piaget and Swarovski.

The group also operates duty free centres at Seoul’s Incheon International Airport and in Jeju.

In its own 23-acre private sculpture park in the heart of Seoul, The Shilla is one of Asia's most admired hotel groups, renowned for luxurious accommodation with state-of-the-art facilities, high-end technology and gracious, personalised service.

Highlighting health and beauty offerings are the Guerlain Spa (one of only four in Asia) and the world renowned La Clinique de Paris,

The Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju, affiliated with the Samsung Corporation, are both members of the prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World.

For reservations of ‘Shopping at The Shilla’ package, please visit http://www.lhw.com.

BLT STEAK: The American Steakhouse Arrives in Hong Kong

BLT Steak is set to open its first restaurant in the Asian market this January in Hong Kong.

The opening of BLT Steak by Dining Concepts, in Ocean Terminal, Kowloon, marks the arrival of celebrated chef Laurent Tourondel to the international dining scene. BLT Steak opened in New York City in 2004 as a revolutionary modern American steakhouse where Tourondel elevates the classic American steakhouse with his signature style, French training and all-around finesse.

A native of France with the passion and skill of a classically French-trained chef and the sensibility and style of a metropolitan restaurateur, Laurent Tourondel has successfully infiltrated the rarified world of New York restaurants and the American dining landscape, much to the delight of critics and diners alike.

Bistro Laurent Tourondel takes the steakhouse concept to a new level by artfully combining the highest quality ingredients with the precision only the finest chefs can wield.

“I created BLT Steak as a modern steakhouse – one that focuses on the best product and the most exact techniques. That is the key for me, to keep it simple and wonderful” states Chef Tourondel.

An extensive range of the best prime steaks available from the US and Australia, are complemented by an array of custom designed entrees, appetizers and salads; poultry, fish and shellfish with classic vegetable side dishes on the mains. Dessert ends the meal with a selection of updated American classics and French specialties.

BLT Steak offers endless beverage options as well, including a creative selection of wines, many available by the glass, and a number of house-designed cocktails.

Designed by renowned architect, Hernan Zanghellini, BLT Steak integrates traditional elements of a cozy French Bistro with those of urbane culinary culture.

With a stunning entrance of limestone, guests are welcomed to a palette of browns, offset by ambient lighting, suggesting comfort and luxury. Dark wood floor, antique brick and wooden walls surround the luxurious banquettes, creating warmth amid modernity.

Elegant and electrifying, melding the best of all that is French with the best of all that is American, BLT Steak satisfies the epicure and the neighborhood diner alike.

ABOUT LAURENT TOURONDEL

Honored by Bon Appetit as Restaurateur of the year in 2007 and by Food & Wine as a Best New Chef in 1997, Tourondel also has received an array of “Best of…” awards from publications that include Esquire, Travel & Leisure, Saveur, Wine Spectator and The New York Times in the US.

Tourondel has changed the approach of fine dining by creating accessible menus prepared with the finest ingredients and presented in a casual, comfortable dining environment. He adheres to his belief that ingredients should be stellar, food simply prepared and service kind and efficient, elements that have made the BLT name what it is today.

Laurent Tourondel is the author of cookbooks: Go Fish (Wiley ’04) and Bistro Laurent Tourondel , New American Bistro Cooking (Wiley, ’07).

BLT Steak in Hong Kong is managed by Dining Concepts, who manage a number of other prominent and successful restaurants throughout Hong Kong.

BLT Steak is at Shop G62, Ground Floor, Ocean Terminal, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

For reservations, please call (852) 2730 3508.

For more information, visit: bltsteak.com / www.diningconcepts.com.hk

Trendy Post Hotel Weggis on Switzerland’s Scenic Lake Lucerne Offers a Romantic Valentine’s Interlude with a Designer Twist

(Hong Kong, December 22, 2008) – Trendsetting new European lifestyle destination Post Hotel Weggis is offering a romantic weekend Valentine's experience amid the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps beside Lake Lucerne.

The Be My Valentine@POHO package available on February 14 is priced at 294 Euros for two at the 45-room boutique retreat nicknamed POHO.

Included in the getaway is a night in a “Valentines special” room with a seductive 4-course lover’s dinner and a cosy breakfast-in-bed, or a sumptuous breakfast buffet.

Included is a romantic bath set for a romantic bathing experience, celebrated with a sensual sparkling aperitif to sip in the bathtub!

Special amenities also icnclude late check-out till 3pm and complimentary access to the POHO Gym&Spa for Wellness, with its mystical jet-black pool, completing the package at the resort which targets the 20-45 age group with the promise of "chilling-out in style".

Born from the old Post Hotel Weggis, POHO boasts architectural structures that stem from the former 80s – and thus displays a modern facelift within the framework of statutes and political stipulations. The maintained dark anthracite foundations now form an interesting contrast to the upper floors concerning today’s architectural language. The stipulated tones of white, yellow and ocher are mixed in refreshing fashion with the blue and turquoise shades of the balconies – and horizontal streaks in yellow loosen up the vertically-structured façade. At night the new and discrete POHO façade illumination radiates contemporary urban light.

Located in the heart of Weggis, only the lakeside promenade separates the main building of POHO from Lake Lucerne. The POHO Lakeside Terrace is situated directly adjacent to the lake and naturally offers stunning alpine panorama views. For more than a hundred years the mild climate has lured pleasure-seeking guests from all over the world to the socalled “Riviera of Central Switzerland”, where chestnut trees, palms and orchids add to its Mediterranean flair. Weggis lies at only a 30-minute drive from Lucerne, but is also conveniently reached by boat or via Küssnacht on the bus.

The name POHO is more than just a hotel name. It has become an independent key visual and design pattern.

POHO embodies a creative decorative structure; designer furnishings and cool 60s fashion. Like a train of thought, in an all embracing manner, the logo extends through the entire design of the hotel, from tables in the dining room through to the various rooms. And even the staff outfits portray the gleaming POHO Look. The design was specially fashioned by designer Silvia Bessenich, and intentionally tailored to match the overall POHO concept.

At POHO, winter recreation ranges from winter sports and hiking high up in the alpine snowfields of nearby Mount Rigi to romantic outings on Lake Lucerne aboard a solar-catamaran, sightseeing, museum visits and shopping.

Post Hotel Weggis is an hour's drive from Zurich and sister hotel to one of Europe’s leading luxury hotels, Park Hotel Weggis.

For reservations and information please email: info@poho.ch.

Singapore’s Les Amis Group to Open its New Hong Kong Restaurant CÉPAGE on December 29

(Hong Kong, December 22, 2008) Singapore’s award-winning Les Amis restaurant is to open its first overseas branch in Hong Kong on December 29 at one of the city’s up and coming locations – Starstreet.

The new restaurant will be named CÉPAGE after the French wine terminology meaning a “blend of” or “variety of” grapes. CÉPAGE will bring to Hong Kong the same award-winning “blend” of exquisite French fare, one of the region’s finest wine lists and personalised service that has made Les Amis Singapore’s most legendary fine dining restaurant for the past 14 years.

At the helm of CÉPAGE will also be the same award-winning team that has assured the success of Les Amis Singapore. Resident Chef Thomas Mayr promises light and contemporary dishes, focusing on quality ingredients which complement the local climate and palate. Director of Operations Randy See, voted Sommelier of the Year at the annual World Gourmet Summit for three consecutive years, will also be overseeing the team in Hong Kong, assuring great service, cuisine, attention to every detail and a truly cultural experience.

Address: 23 Wing Fung Street
For reservations: (852) 2861 3130

EXPERIENCE THE TANG DYNASTY WITH GRAND PARK XIAN

Enjoy a luxurious hotel stay and discover the ancient Silk Road capital,
visit the Hua Qing Hot Springs and Big Goose Pagoda

(Hong Kong, December 19, 2008) -- Grand Park Xian is offering a new 'Romantic Tang Cultural Experience' with guided tours to the local historical and cultural attractions of China’s ancient Silk Road capital famed for the world famous Terracotta Warriors and historic capital of the Tang Dynasty.

Available from January 1 to March 31, the three day / two night experience package is designed for two, priced at RMB 1,998 per person including return airport transfer, buffet breakfast each morning and a unique Empress Banquet gourmet dinner. On arrival, couples will receive a welcome drink. This package also features a visit to the Terracotta Warriors along with many other fascinating attractions in Xian.

One of the highlights is Hua Qing Hot Springs, located at the foot of the Lishan Mountain, dating back 6,000 years, it is ranked among the top one hundred gardens in China. This attraction is also a National Cultural Relic Protection Unit and a National Key Scenic Area.

At Hua Qing Hot Spring, travellers will not only enjoy the scenery, but be able to imagine being back in the days of the Tang Dynasty and the lurid romance stories of the royal court between concubine Yang Yu Huan and Emperor Xuan Zong. Here travellers can pamper themselves in the imitation Guifei Pool with an even temperature of 43 degrees. The ever-flowing water of the hot spring contains minerals and organic materials that have therapeutic effects on the skin.

Also in the itinerary is the world famous Big Goose Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist shrine dating back to the year 652 and the reign of Tang Dynasty Emperor Gaozong, housing treasures collected from India by Buddhist monk Xuan Zang who became the renowned character of the ancient novel of Pilgrimage to the West. It is recognized as a National Key Cultural Relic Preserve.

Completing the experience is an optional gourmet dinner at the Tang Dynasty Theatre Restaurant, where guests can enjoy a luxurious banquet while savouring the rich culture of China’s ancient capital of Xian through songs and dance. This world-class theatre restaurant seats up to 650 diners in a 2,000 square metre auditorium. The theatre celebrates ‘China's natural museum of history’ famed for the Terracotta Warriors, ancient tombs of emperors, thousands of ruins and mausoleums, and more than 120,000 art and architectural treasures.

The ‘Romantic Tang Cultural Experience' also includes a refined Chinese calligraphy class in the Hotel hosted by a local calligraphist. Couples are able to learn the techniques of using Chinese ink and brush to do Chinese writing.

"Xian has a long history and culture, beautiful scenery and warm and hospitable people”, stated Grand Park Xian General Manager, Mr Ip Hon Ming. “Here at Grand Park Xian we have the most knowledgeable local Chief Concierge who would be able share his knowledge and expertise with all travellers".

The spectacular Grand Park Xian, recently renamed from the Grand Castle Xian, evokes the grandeur of an ancient palace, uniquely designed in the historic architectural style of the adjacent ancient City Wall.

The luxurious 5-star hotel was rebranded following an extensive renovation in 2008.

Facing the south gate of the ancient City Wall in the heart of Xian’s city centre, Grand Park Xian is an ideal base for business, leisure and sightseeing – surrounded by major shopping malls and offices and within walking distance of nearby historic sites and famous scenic spots.

The decor of the 338 guestrooms, including 40 suites, is sophisticated yet traditional – with Chinese-style furniture and folkloric art featured alongside modern facilities which include broadband internet access and 32” LCD televisions, with environmentally-friendly recyclable amenities.

The towering 10-storey hotel features two restaurants – the signature Park Palace restaurant serving authentic Cantonese and local cuisine, and the all-day Verandah Café serving international and Asian cuisine.

Six versatile banquet rooms, including a 440 square metre pillar-free ballroom, cater for weddings, social gatherings and medium-sized MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) events. The hotel also features a Lobby Lounge, business centre, hotel shop and executive lounge exclusively for Executive Floor guests.

Managed by Park Hotel Group, Grand Park Xian is a member of Summit Hotels & Resorts™. Park Hotel Group currently owns and manages 8 hotels in Asia, while Summit Hotels & Resorts™ has 135 luxurious member hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and cities.

For more information please visit: www.parkhotelgroup.com. or send an email to rsvn.gpxa@parkhotelgroup.com.

For reservations and information, please call +86-29-87608888 ext 1009.

About Xian
China’s ancient capital is world-renowned for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Terracotta Warriors located in The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, located 40 kilometres to the east. With more than 3,100 years of history, Xian is today an important cultural, industrial and educational centre in the country’s central-northwest and is also home to facilities for research and development, national security and China’s space programme.

Among numerous tourist attractions at the western debut section of the Silk Road are the well-preserved City Wall, Drum Tower, Bell Tower, Muslim quarter shopping district, Great Mosque, and two spectacular towers each over 1,000 years old, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Small Wild Goose Pagoda. The 5,000-year-old Banpo Neolithic village, discovered in 1952, is just outside the city. Xian also boasts the world’s largest Internet café with more than 3,000 computers. Natural attractions range from Mount Hua, one of China’s most visited mountains, to Mount Zhongnan, Mount Taibai and Lishan. Xian’s international airport is the largest in northwest China with direct flights to Hong Kong, Taipei, Tokyo, Nagoya and Bangkok.

Silversea Pops the Cork with 11 New Wine Series Voyages for 2009

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is toasting the New Year with an enticing new collection of 11 Wine Series voyages for 2009.

On each wine-themed cruise, discerning travellers with a passion for fine wines will enjoy sampling great vintages and learning about the tradition and art of winemaking in special tastings and lectures conducted by wine professionals, vineyard owners, winemakers and other epicurean specialists from renowned establishments, including California's Justin and Wente wineries, Italy's Castello Banfi and Chile's Santa Alicia Winery, to name a few. On many voyages, guests will also have the chance to explore some of the world’s most celebrated wine regions on guided shore excursions.

Of special note is the participation of Salvatore Ferragamo, grandson of the Italian fashion visionary. Renowned for their signature handbags and footwear, the Ferragamo family also owns Il Borro, an acclaimed wine-producing estate in Tuscany. Ferragamo is slated to host Silver Wind's July 6 wine-themed sailing from Lisbon to Monte Carlo.

"Our Wine Series cruises are a great way for guests to broaden their understanding and appreciation for one of life's most cherished luxuries – fine wine," said Steve O’Dell, Senior Vice President for Asia Pacific. "We've invited top experts from some of the world's most acclaimed vineyards and wineries to visit and interact with our guests, guiding them through entertaining tastings and lectures that add a unique and enriching dimension to their cruise experience."

Listed below are the 2009 Wine Series cruises (rates are per person in US dollars, double occupancy and do not include port charges):

Alaska & Pacific Coast

-- Silver Shadow departs July 20 on a 12-day, roundtrip voyage (#3917) from San Francisco with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Wrangell and Victoria. WINE SERIES HOSTS: Eric and Arel Wente, owners of California's Wente Vineyards. Silver Sailing fares start at $6,646.

-- Silver Shadow departs August 25 on a 9-day, roundtrip voyage (#3921) from Vancouver with calls in Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Wrangell and Victoria. WINE SERIES HOST: Master Sommelier Joe Spellman of California's Justin Vineyards and Winery. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $5,775.

Mediterranean

-- Silver Wind departs May 28 on a 9-day voyage (#2917) from Monte Carlo to Athens with calls in Livorno, Sorrento, Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Kusadasi and Bodrum. WINE SERIES HOST: Stanislas Marchal, public relations representative for Vranken-Pommery Monopole. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $7,305.

-- Silver Whisper departs July 4 on a 7-day voyage (#4918) from Venice to Athens with calls in Split, Kotor, Corfu and Itea. WINE SERIES HOST: Georges Muller of Riedel Crystal (the wine glass company), expert on pairing wines with stemware. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,896.

-- Silver Wind departs July 6 on a 12-day voyage (#2921) from Lisbon to Monte Carlo with calls in Cadiz, Malaga, Ibiza, Barcelona (overnight), Cannes, Menton, Livorno and Corsica. WINE SERIES HOST: Salvatore Ferragamo, owner and managing director of Il Borro estate, Tuscany, Italy. Silver Sailing fares start at $5,797.

-- Silver Wind departs August 14 on a 7-day voyage (#2925) from Venice to Athens with calls in Hvar, Sibenik, Dubrovnik and Santorini. WINE SERIES HOST: Philip di Belardino, Castello Banfi Vineyard Estate & Winery, Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $6,115.

Northern Europe & The Baltic

-- Silver Cloud departs June 25 on a 9-day, roundtrip voyage (#1914) from Stockholm with calls in Helsinki, St. Petersburg (3 days, 2 nights), Tallinn and Gdansk. WINE SERIES HOST: Gary Eberle, owner of California's Eberle Winery (will co-host with a European winery, exploring Old and New World wines). Silver Sailing fares start at $6,646.

-- Silver Cloud departs August 26 on a 10-day, roundtrip voyage (#1921) from London with calls in Edinburgh (overnight), Invergordon, Oban, Dublin, Cork and Fowey. WINE SERIES HOST: Gordon Bell, brand ambassador and master of Scotch whisky. Silver Sailing fares start at $7,486.

South America

-- Silver Cloud departs January 4 on a 16-day voyage (#1901) from Santiago to Buenos Aires with calls in Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco, Laguna San Rafael, Punta Arenas (overnight), Falkland Islands, Puerto Madryn, Punta del Este and Montevideo. WINE SERIES HOST: Daniel Soto, Santa Alicia Winery, Santiago, Chile. Voyage co-hosted by GUEST CHEF Luis Gonzalez Morales, chef/owner of El Remezon restaurant in Punta Arenas, Chile, specializing in traditional Patagonian cuisine. Silver Sailing fares start at $8,606.

-- Silver Cloud departs February 5 on a 16-day voyage (#1903) from Santiago to Buenos Aires with calls in Puerto Montt, Laguna San Rafael, Punta Arenas (overnight), Ushuaia, Puerto Madryn and Montevideo. WINE SERIES HOSTS: Silvina Barros of Trivento Winery and Vineyards, Mendoza, Argentina; Fernando Mediano of Emiliana Vineyards, Casablanca Valley, Chile; and Jofre Duran of Concha y Toro Vineyards, Maipo Valley, Chile. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $10,450.

Transoceanic

-- Silver Cloud departs April 15 on a 15-day voyage (#1910) from Barbados to London with calls in St. Lucia, Antigua, La Horta, Ponta Delgada, Falmouth and Cherbourg. WINE SERIES HOST: Trevor Burnett, brand ambassador for Grey Goose Vodka. Voyage co-hosted by GUEST CHEF of the Viking Cooking School. Silver Sailing fares start at $5,337.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, and Silver Whisper, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.S., Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI). International awards include "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2007); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2009); and "Best Luxury Cruise Operator" according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2007 &2008).

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please visit www.silversea.com.

ONE&ONLY PALMILLA UNVEILS NEW ACCOMODATION AND DINING CONCEPT BY JEAN-GEORGES VONGERICHTEN

One&Only Palmilla, the serenely private and elegant resort in Los Cabos, Mexico, recently launched 13 new lavish beachfront casitas as well as two unique dining concepts. MARKET restaurant opens in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten whilst Suviche bar combines local and Asian flavours. The resort also opened the stunning new standalone Villa Cortez on 1 December 2008.

Beachfront Pool Casitas
The spacious casitas, all of which have been newly renovated, span three categories ranging from Beachfront Pool Casita Junior Suites (680 sq ft) and One Bedroom Suites (1,300 sq ft), to the Beachfront Pool Casita Master Suite (1,780 sq ft) – each of which has a private infinity pool; pool terrace adorned with day beds; and views across the Sea of Cortez. The One Bedroom Suites boast the addition of a whirlpool and al fresco dining facilities; and the Master Suite enjoys enhanced bathing facilities including indoor and outdoor rain showers, as well as a lavish sculpted bath and elegant marble bathroom.

MARKET
The exciting introduction of MARKET will see world renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s signature style blended with Mexican overtones using traditional ingredients. Guests will be invited to enjoy ‘couture cuisine’ allowing them to customise their meal through a choice of cooking techniques. Local specialities will include Crispy Huachinago (Red Snapper); Lily Bulb and Radish Salad with a Sesame Vinaigrette; and Cubes of Chilean Salmon ‘Toro’ with Lemon, Horseradish and Dill.

"This is a project I'm excited to be a part of since I know the One&Only brand and I have the same goal, to create an unforgettable experience inspired and influenced by local culture," says Jean-Georges Vongerichten. "Mexico has incredible markets, with endless chili farms and deep flavours that really inspired me when creating the menu for MARKET. My team at One&Only Palmilla is working with local farmers and fishermen to get their amazing produce on the table for guests. With MARKET we have created something really unique - the menu speaks to my style of cuisine, but with a Mexican twist."

MARKET’s design, by Adam D. Tihany, evokes understated elegance using warm natural colours and a collection of original artworks – inspired by contemporary Mexican architecture.

Suviche
Suviche bar, adjacent to MARKET, will offer guests an impressive selection of fresh sushi and a striking presentation of Mexican Ceviches, combining local and Asian flavours.
Sushi will be prepared by a traditional Japanese chef, selected by Jean-Georges in Tokyo. An extensive tea and sake menu will complement the new cuisine, while the introduction of a professional Sake Sommelier will assist guests with a recommended sake pairing.

Villa Cortez
The brand new Villa Cortez, perched on the cliffs along the Sea of Cortez, will provide the ultimate escape for those requiring absolute privacy. The incredibly spacious four-bedroom villa with over 10,500 sq ft of interior and exterior space, offers 24-hour Estate Butler Service and will provide guests with unparalleled amenities and services. Highlights include private spa facilities; a 12-seat cinema; leather paneled office; indoor and outdoor kitchen; infinity-edged pool; full kinesis gym including cardio and weight facilities; and media studio. Its style is inspired by traditional haciendas, with authentic design features throughout.

Edward Steiner, Senior Vice President, Latin America and the Caribbean, One&Only Resorts and Managing Director, One&Only Palmilla, said: “One&Only Palmilla will always set the bar for elegance and service which define the One&Only experience. We are very excited about the enhancements taking place at the resort, all of which have been undertaken to ensure that the experiences of guests at One&Only Palmilla remain fresh and unparalleled, providing guests with amenities that are simply unlike anything else in the luxury market place today.”

Stress-Free Escapes to Phuket’s Exclusive Trisara Resort

(Phuket, December 18, 2008) – Holidaymakers and honeymooners can enjoy a perfect and stress-free “Escape” to Trisara, South East Asia’s most intimate and exclusive resort with the announcement of a promotion during Phuket’s high season.

Available now until the end of April 2009, this limited time only discount makes starting prices an affordable US$590+++ per night staying in a signature Trisara Ocean View Pool Room with breakfast.

The offer is available across all room categories from Ocean View Pool Room to supreme luxury 2-bedroom Ocean Front Pool Villa and is the perfect opportunity to stay in one of Asia’s most beautiful and sought-after resorts during peak season with savings of up to US$760 per night.

During this time an Ocean View Spa Pool Suite will be priced at only US$860+++ per night; an Ocean View pool villa US$930+++; an ocean front pool villa at US$1,230+++ and a two-bedroom Ocean Front Pool Villa, perfect for a family or friends getaway at US$1,750+++ per night.

The high season floating jetty has been rolled out and guests can enjoy the azure ocean at anytime during daylight regardless of the tides. Trisara’s recreation crew will hand you bread from the morning’s breakfast to feed the fish – a delightful activity, just moments from guest’s villa.

About Trisara
Renowned for its prestigious location, breathtaking views and caring hospitality service, Trisara is an award-winning resort property in South East Asia offering private pools & magnificent ocean views from all rooms, spa suites and villas. The exclusive resort has won numerous awards and accolades over the years including ones from Conde Nast Traveler, The Gallivanter’s Guide and Robb Report.

Overlooking the Andaman Sea, each of the resort’s 39 pool rooms and villas epitomise the height of luxury, yet are sensitively designed to blend into, rather than overpower, the natural beauty of the surroundings, with rich teaks and light tones combining perfectly with the stunning ocean backdrop. Panoramic pool rooms feature outdoor showers and private plunge pools, while the residential-style pool villas also boast their own infinity-edge swimming pools and expansive decks which are perfect for barbeques or romantic dinners.

The resort’s 1,500 square-metre Trisara Spa has set new benchmarks in the world of beauty with six private treatment suites around an open-sided breezy pavilion rimmed with calming tropical ponds, whilst the open-air dining experience is one of Phuket’s finest.

Trisara’s signature 3-therapist 6-hand Royal Trisara massage launched earlier this year and is a not to be missed experience for guests seeking the ultimate in relaxation and spa pampering. The 90 minute journey of perfectly synchronized indulgence combines Thai and Swedish massage leaving guests completely rejuvenated.

Trisara guests can choose the ultimate in luxury and combine a stay in the resorts legendary pool villas or private residences with two days (one night) aboard a superb 3 cabin Ferretti “Double Issue” motor yacht, an experience that allows exploration of the beautiful, un-crowded islands and bays just off Phuket’s coastline in pure luxury. Guests also have access to a range of alternative luxury motor yachts to explore the many beautiful islands and bays close to Phuket, as well as close proximity to well reputed golf courses.

Trisara also manages within its grounds a number of beautiful privately owned residences which are available to rent as 2, 3, 4 or 5 bedroom villas.

Bookings at Trisara can be made via travel planners or through the hotel reservation office directly.
Phone: +66 76 310100
Fax: +66 76 310300
Email: reservations@trisara.com
Web: www.trisara.com
[ends]

Harlan’s Fresh New Year Specials

(Hong Kong, December, 2008) Harlan’s at ifc mall in Central is dishing up three gourmet specials in the coming months. With each table boasting spectacular views over Victoria Harbour and delectable menu’s designed by Chef Nelson, Harlan’s is sure to please.

Heartfelt Valentine's Dinner at Harlan’s
Harlan’s is serving a decadent Valentine's dinner on February 14 priced at HK$980 for six courses.

The gastronomic dinner starts with slow cooked wild salmon trout with caviar, and butter-poached scampi. Wood-stone roasted French quail follows, stuffed with foie gras, chorizo carpaccio and Savoy cabbage. Main course is a choice of herb-roasted Wagyu lamb rib with lamb osso bucco cake and truffle jus or slow-roasted Spanish pork loin with olive, capers, soft polenta and cider reduction. Dessert is a raspberry mousse cake with mixed berries compote, served with coffee or tea.

The six course dinner is HK$980 per person plus 10% service charge. Ladies will also receive a flower as a Valentine’s gift.

Harlan’s Weekend Brunch
‘Harlan’s Weekend Brunch Experience’ embraces the award-winning restaurant’s popular favourites for just HK$298 per person.

The brunches served on Saturdays and Sundays are buffet-style, complete with salad bar. There are a host of choices from smoked fish, Parma ham, classic pizza and baked mussels to fresh pink shrimp, home-made foie gras terrine and beef carpaccio. Live cooking stations serve a range of handmade pastas and seafood bouillabaisse. Main course choices are Chef Nelson’s renowned ‘Roast of the Day’, wood-stone roasted Spring Chicken, vegetarian option, half a baked Boston lobster or jet flown fish of the day, served with peperonata and aged balsamic jus.

A dessert station also offers freshly prepared delicacies including chocolate fondue and hot soufflés, complimented by a dessert buffet including mini cheese cake, chocolate truffle, tiramisu and strawberry panna cotta. Also included in the new lunch menu is coffee or tea.

The ‘Harlan’s Brunch Experience’ is HK$298 per person or HK$198 for children under 12. From 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Harlans’ Lunch Experience
Changing weekly the 3 course lunch menu is priced at $278 per person, plus 10% service charge.

Perfect for corporate lunches or an after shopping refuel, Harlan’s Lunch Experience includes a starter choice of soup or buffet style appetizers followed by a choice of six main courses including roast of the day, pasta and a vegetarian choice. Lunch is complete with desert surprise and coffee or tea.

Available Monday – Friday, 11:30 to 14:30

Harlan’s is at Shop 2075, Podium Level 2, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong.

Opening Hours : Monday to Sunday
Lunch: 11:30 to 14:30
High Tea: 15:00 to 17:30
Dinner: 18:30 to 22:30

For reservations, please call (852) 2805 0566.

New cosseting, Easywear Knits for the Winter Months

COMO Shambhala introduces some knitwear pieces to complement the collection.

They include a delicate cozy in cashmere knit (featured); a lightweight, oversize V-neck jumper and a Zip Up hoodie with a double layer of cashmere knit in the body, sleeves and hood lining. There is also a featherweight cashmere shawl, dip-dyed at either end to give a degrade effect. These additions feature neutral shades of pearl, flint, stone and black.

Multi-Activity Adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan 1 to 8 August 2009

For 2009, Uma Paro is introducing a new Multi-Activity itinerary. Enjoy an action-packed eight days with whitewater rafting, fly fishing, a round of golf, an overnight camping trek, mountain biking and a traditional archery tournament.

Accompanied by two experienced Uma guides, this journey takes in three fantastic valleys.

Available from US$3,280 (single occupancy) including all government fees, taxes, guiding services and full board.

Metropolitan Bangkok

Welcome Chinese New Year in Style

Celebrate with the Metropolitan's 'Hong Pau Package'.

Enjoy a Thai Set lunch or dinner for two in Glow restaurant and relax in the oversized Metropolitan Room.

All guests booking the Chinese New Year package will enter a prize draw with a chance to win exciting prizes such as a cocktail in the Met Bar or a COMO Shambhala massage.

Available from US$155 per room per night.

SpaAsia Crystal Awards 2008

COMO Shambhala Estate has been awarded 'Best Complementary and Alternative Medicine Centre' at this year's prestigious SpaAsia Crystal Awards.

This new accolade follows closely behind the Estate's success, when it secured the same award in 2007.

Earlier this year, the property was also named among the 'Top 10 Best Boutique Spas in the World' in the Annual Spa Finder Readers' Choice Awards.

Celebrate Chinese New Year at Uma Ubud

On 26 January 2009 Bali will be bathed in red to welcome the Lunar New Year.

To mark the occasion, Uma offers a package including a sumptuous meal at Kemiri restaurant and a rejuvenating COMO Shambhala treatment.

Upon arrival, guests will be presented with a special 'Ang Pao' to share good luck for the new year (it is a Chinese tradition to give a red envelope with a monetary gift - we will present you with a gift voucher instead).

Available from US$630 per room for two nights.

Aspasia Showcases Black Truffle Menu in 2009 with Exquisite Italian Cuisine

(Hong Kong, December 17, 2008) – Aspasia, the signature Italian restaurant at Hong Kong’s stylish boutique hotel, The Luxe Manor, is welcoming 2009 with the launch of a bespoke menu celebrating the Black Truffle season.

Available from 2nd – 31st January only, when the truffles are at their peak in perfume and flavor, the menu incorporates both a la carte and a set menu option for diners to experience the highly sought after ‘diamond of the kitchen’.

The Black Truffle Set Menu priced at HK$1,288 per person features five courses, all which are also available a la carte.

The tasting menu commences with Creamy Scramble Egg and Black Truffle (HK$308), followed by Scallop on Ratte Potato, Leek and Black Truffle (HK$328).

To continue, the set menu offers Lobster Agnolotti in Truffle Jus, Asparagus and Black Truffle (HK$468) followed by Beef Tenderloin Rossini Style, Foie Gras on Toasted Bread, Black Truffle (HK$558).

Dessert is served in the form of Black Truffle Crème Brule (HK$148).

A la carte dishes not included in the set menu but also available to experience the Black Truffles include Egg in Casserole and Wild Board Ham, Black Truffle (HK$338), Egg in Ravioli with Potato Cream, Black Truffle (HK$388), Winter Salad with Parma Ham in Citrus Dressing with Black Truffle (HK$308) and Rigatoncini Carbonara Style with Black Truffle (HK$308).

Guests will enjoy the combination of the finest Italian ingredients and the refined, earthy taste of Black Truffles that combine so well with Italian cuisine.

Celebrated for specialty regional cuisine from all of Italy and one of the finest Champagnes and wine cellars in Hong Kong, Aspasia is a refined yet relaxed ‘foodie’ favourite at the quirky The Luxe Manor, styled after a European manor in Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui.

All dishes are subject to availability and 10% service charge.

Specialising in freshest imported ingredients and memorable cuisine, advanced booking is recommended with reservations at (852) 3763 8800.

The Luxe Manor is managed by GR8 Leisure Concept Ltd., a Hong Kong based hospitality group.

Note to editors: The Luxe Manor (pronounced as deluxe manor) is the complete name of the hotel.

Luxury Valentine’s Celebrations in Central Vietnam

(Hoi An, Vietnam, December 17, 2008) -- Valentine’s Day celebrations at Vietnam’s most luxurious beach front resort, The Nam Hai, are set to seduce guests with gourmet cuisine, indulgent couple’s spa treatments and the most opulent accommodation in Vietnam.

Resident Executive Chef, Richard Wilson has prepared a romance inspired menu designed especially for sharing to be enjoyed over a poolside candlelight setting with sweeping views over China Beach and to the Cham Islands beyond.

With the resorts resident pianist setting the mood for the evening’s celebrations, guests can enjoy the Nam Hai’s special Champagne cocktail served with fresh strawberries.

The Valentine’s Dinner is US$250++ per couple and begins with Chilled Cream of Asparagus Soup with Truffle Oil.

Duck rillete with cornichions and dill pickles served with melba toast follows leading into the main event offering a sumptuous fresh seafood plate of king prawns, langoustine, oysters, lobster and tuna tartare served with crunchy fennel coleslaw, potato and bean salad and lemon mayonnaise and tomato basil salsa.

Dessert is a grand mariner and chocolate parfait, decedent chocolate tart and lush strawberries.

Couples at The Nam Hai also have the opportunity to indulge at the award-winning spa, a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal of body, mind and spirit. Surrounded by a tranquil lagoon, the facilities include eight luxurious private spa villas, four single and four double. Each spa villa is appointed with a changing room, steam shower, separate private bath and a relaxation room which houses an oversized day bed perched at the edge of the lagoon.

Designed with lovers in mind, the Love Bath Ceremony Bathing Ritual (US$100) including Champagne and canapés, invites guest to luxuriate in a bath strewn with rose petals and infused with a pure blend of aromatherapy oils and Himalayan bath salts.

Unrivalled 5-star all villa accommodation at The Nam Hai amid the unique culture of Central Vietnam combines gourmet cuisine and abundant recreational pursuits in an atmosphere of unsurpassed opulence at Vietnam’s most exclusive oceanfront resort.

Accommodation ranges from one-bedroom villas to a five bedroom beach front pool villa with prices starting at US$750++ per villa per night.

The resort also offers four floodlit tennis courts, badminton courts, basketball court and a state of the art health club. An 18-hole golf course is opening nearby in the near future with bespoke local cultural, historical, shopping and sightseeing tours available on request.

The Nam Hai is 10km from UNESCO World Heritage listed Hoi An, a colourful and well preserved traditional Asian trading port with a fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese and French cultures dating from the 15th century. It is also close to numerous historic attractions, including World Heritage-listed My Son, site of the ancient Cham civilization, and Hue, the former Imperial capital.
The resort is connected to the world via Danang’s international airport, just 30 minutes from the resort, offering direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and Bangkok.

The Nam Hai is managed by GHM, one of the world’s leading creators and operators of award-winning, distinctive luxury hotels and resorts, throughout Asia and the USA. The five-star resort is a member of the prestigious The Leading Small Hotels of the World.

For more information on The Nam Hai Resort and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com

Uma Paro Introduces Two New Itineraries to Its Adventure Retreat Series for 2009

(Hong Kong, December 15, 2008) – Following the success of the inaugural Adventure Retreats in 2008, Uma Paro in Bhutan has re-introduced nine of the set date, group departure itineraries for 2009 while adding two new packages: a multi-activity adventure incorporating biking, hiking, high-altitude golf, overnight camping and whitewater rafting in August 2009, and a photographic-based adventure in November 2009.

The multi-activity itinerary makes the most of Uma Paro’s spectacular pristine outdoor playground. It is designed for active thrill-seekers with a love of the outdoors. However, on most days the support vehicle is on hand to make this trip accessible to different levels of fitness while allowing individuals to do their own thing.

From bustling markets to mountain passes strewn with prayer flags, from happy monks in maroon robes to massive ancient fortresses – Bhutan is certainly a Shangri La for image-makers. When the monsoon clouds have vanished in November, the landscape snaps into sharp focus with crystal light, inky blue skies and exceptional mountain views.

‘Bhutan Through a Lens’ is a unique seven-night adventure for photographers of all levels and interests in association with Philip Bowen, a 16-year Bhutan veteran, accomplished photographer and COMO Activity Director who will accompany the group on this new itinerary. Time is divided between Uma Paro and a new Uma-owned 11-bed lodge in the distinctly different Paro and Punakha valleys. The photographic element is a combination of location shoots and serendipitous meetings with friendly locals.

As with these two new trips, all eleven of the Adventure Retreat itineraries give guests unparalleled access to this extraordinary Himalayan kingdom’s rural, Buddhist soul. The trips are for single travellers, couples and exclusive parties of three people or more, allowing access to remote reaches of Bhutan ‘caravan’ style with Bhutanese guides. Depending on the trip, the maximum number of guests is eight to twelve. The itineraries also remove the hassle of visas, planning and decision-making.

The packages are designed to coincide with the best weather and/or a special event during 2009, and vary from seven to twelve nights. Accommodation is provided at Uma Paro; some trips include stays in other locally-owned hotels across Bhutan. Spring and summer trekking adventures also incorporate some nights under canvas.

Tours with experienced English-speaking guides feature golden roofed monasteries and fascinating temples including the spectacular ‘Tiger’s Nest’ perched on a mountainside above the clouds. Vistas take in prayer flag-covered hilltops, forgotten valleys and ancient forests, most itineraries including nature walks that celebrate Bhutan’s diverse flora and birdlife. More challenging trekking adventures follow remote mountain paths that few foreigners have ever set foot on. Biking trips, well suited to active groups, include off-road trails and exhilarating descents.

Plenty of time is allowed within each adventure package for guests to connect with a more relaxed way of living, to enjoy the peace of Uma Paro, the pool, sophisticated organic cuisine, the COMO Shambhala spa and daily Yoga classes.

Rates for adventure packages range from US$3,280 to US$6,112 for single occupancy in a Superior Room (forest views) or US$5,292 to US$10,054 for double occupancy depending on the package selected. All rates include seven, ten or twelve nights accommodation at a combination of Uma Paro and other tourist standard hotels, or at previously set up camps for trekking adventures. Meals, excluding beverages, are included as well as picnics and mineral water on days out. Government taxes, royalties, visas and entry permits are all arranged by Uma Paro in advance; these costs are factored into the published rates along with all transport within Bhutan.

2009 Adventure Retreat Schedule

26th February to 10th March
Punakha Festival and the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan

13th to 23rd March
Central and Western Bhutan Journey and Bumdra Monastery Camp

11th to 23rd May
The Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan and the Jhomalhari Trek

2nd to 12th June
The Flowers and Monasteries of Central and Western Bhutan

5th to 15th July
Mountains and Monasteries – Bhutan by Bike

1st to 8th August
A Multi-Activity Adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan

22nd August to 1st September
Central and Western Bhutan Journey and Bumdra Camp Monastery

7th to 17th October
Blessings of Bhutan and the Druk Path Trek

3rd to 15th November
Bhutan Through a Lens

1st to 11th December
Shopping and Shangri La

For more detailed itineraries and dates, please visit uma.como.bz.

HIRSCH BEDNER BLENDS PORTUGESE & CHINESE CULTURES TO CREATE THE NEW COTAI LANDMARK: FOUR SEASONS HOTEL MACAU, COTAI STRIP

(Hong Kong, December 12, 2008) - Leading international interior design firm HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, which is renowned as the creative force behind many of the region’s leading luxury hotels and resorts, has unveiled its latest project with the opening of the new Four Seasons Hotel Macau, Cotai Strip®.

The new mixed-use lifestyle and entertainment complex features hotel, serviced apartments, high-end shopping mall, a boutique-sized casino, fine dining and other entertainment options.
Inspired by the ancient Portuguese history of Macau and the predominant Chinese culture in the enclave, HBA has blended distinctive design influences from both to create a stunning new hotel. The hotel is a jewel amidst Asia’s Las Vegas, as the Cotai Strip® has become known. It offers a retreat from the bustling action going on at the nearby Cotai Strip® CotaiExpo™ and The Venetian® Macau Resort Hotel, home to the largest casino in the world.

“The new Four Seasons Hotel is a showstopper which encapsulates the rich culture and history of Macau like no other hotel in the enclave,” said Tracie Co, an Associate from HBA’s Hong Kong office.

Drawing influence from an old Colonial Portuguese house, the hotel has features throughout that evoke as sense of a grand residence. “The lobby lounge was designed to function like the living room of a Colonial Portuguese house, complete with a fireplace, Portuguese lanterns, ceiling fans and bamboo floor,” said Co. “The Chinese lacquer screens date back to the 18th century and demonstrate China’s influence on trade and design.”

Six oversized Portuguese-inspired custom-made lanterns are 1.8 meter in height and convey original craftsmanship and artistry, through their texture and details. A carpet inspired by an original Portuguese 15th Century arraiolos (needle-point tapestry rug) found in a Lisbon museum, serves as a focal point in the large rotunda, which is framed by two grand staircases that meet in the center of the lobby and lead to the second level ballroom and entertainment space.

“We mixed historic furniture, art, Chinese decorative textiles and European grandeur throughout the property to evoke a subtle but classic sense of place, whether in the guestrooms or the public spaces,” said Paulo Dias who worked with Co on the project.

Inspired by the beautiful, ornate colonial architecture that makes Macau so distinct, HBA utilized a residential approach in the design of the interiors that blend seamlessly with the building’s architectural style. The back wall of the reception desk, for example, is framed by a replica of 18th century traditional Portuguese blue and white tiles.

Textiles and etchings of the city streets akin to those found in the ancient markets of Macau were hung in the guestrooms and a Ming Dynasty style console and carpets added to the classic look. As a colorful and visual contrast to the warm but neutral pallet and white limestone walls in the lobby, decorative art pieces include a framed 17th Century Portuguese textile with original embroidery and several Coromandel screens, designed in China for the European market.

The design team spent considerable time researching the Macanese culture and Portuguese architectural influences as well as combing through local markets and antique shops. One of their finds includes a stunning Bamboo Chinese 19th Century console, which they placed prominently in the public space corridor.

“Just like a person collects one of kind antiques for their home we also wanted to choose pieces that added to the authenticity of our design,” said Dias. “The public flow space features little corners of surprise, for example the framed 17th century Portuguese textile or the collection of Beijing glass vases”

Hirsch Bedner design team: Ilija Karlusic, Alicia Loo, Tracie Co, and Paulo Dias.

About the Four Seasons Hotel Macau, Cotai Strip®

A mixed-use lifestyle and entertainment complex, The Four Seasons Hotel Macau, Cotai Strip® comprises serviced apartments, high-end shopping, a boutique-sized casino and fine dining and other entertainment options. The hotel features 360 rooms, 84 suites, meeting space, and a Four Seasons Spa adjoining swimming pool, fitness center and yoga studios, all in keeping with the Four Seasons high standards of modern comfort and class and intended to be a retreat from the bustling action going on at the nearby Convention and Exhibition Center and the Venetian Macau. Contemporary design mixes with Old world ornamentation with Oriental accents, vibrant colors, lush brocades and jewel tones, reminiscent of the days when the city was a major trading center for Portuguese silks and ceramics between China, Japan, India and Europe.
The Four Seasons Macao features a variety of dining options from cocktails in the Lobby Lounge to fine cigars, wine and spirits in the Blue Bar, a jewel box-sized space with lacquered blue wall covering, blue velvet drapes and one striking wall done in iridescent sea-shell abalone. Glass columns with custom Chinese cloud patterns and Asian Chinoiserie black and gold wall coverings create a dramatic look in Zi Yat Heen, the fine dining Chinese and Dim Sum restaurant. The hotel’s small casino features European details, Chinese trellises and other touches to create a theatrical presentation and atmosphere.

Je t’aime…Romantic Valentines at Chez Moi in Central

(Hong Kong, December 11, 2008) – Enjoy the voyage with champagne, foie gras, caviar and Wagyu beef at Chez Moi and experience a unique Valentine’s Day with your loved one.

Chez Moi is a cosy, contemporary European restaurant on Arbuthnot Road in Central with a stylish yet comfortable design that resembles the interior of an ocean liner, with all custom made fittings.

This Valentine’s Day cosy up on board and enjoy the ‘Je t’aime…Romantic Valentines at Chez Moi’ special menu on February 14.

A decadent 5-course menu that could have graced The Titanic is priced at HK$850 per person. Guests start the romantic voyage with a glass of champagne and Chez Moi’s signature appetizer, beetroot gazpacho and creamed horseradish.

Next is the Duck foie gras terrine with spiced baby pears and truffle croutes, and the natural aphrodisiac Brittany rock oysters with caviar cream.

After a refreshing sorbet, the main course choice is either braised Australian Wagyu beef cheek with ginger baby carrots, wild mushrooms and tarragon or roast Norwegian salmon, with a salad of asparagus, quails egg and lemon beurre blanc.

The romantic evening is completed with strawberry and white chocolate Mille Feuille, and tea or coffee.

About Chez Moi

Chez Moi is a cosy, high-end contemporary European restaurant in Arbuthnot Road, Central with a stylish, comfortable design that resembles the interior of an ocean liner, with all custom made fittings.

It utilizes the finest ingredients – organic where possible - prepared with the authenticity and purity of classical European cuisine yet updated with a contemporary flair. The wine list focuses on boutique wineries and many of them are biodynamic or organic wines.

True to its name which means “at my home” in French, Chez Moi is devoted to making customers feel relaxed and comfortable as if they were in someone’s refined private residence.

Signature dishes include Citrus Home Cured Norwegian Salmon, Beetroot Gazpacho and Horseradish Cream and Braised Cheek of Australian Wagyu Beef, Ginger Baby Carrots and Red Onion Marmalade, Ballontine of Foie Gras.

Says founder Mr Ahlaiya Yung, "Chez Moi aims to be a special place off the beaten track – quirky with a sense of adventure, and the intimate charm of a small European restaurant making guests feel as if they are visiting the personal home of a master chef."

For reservations, please call (852) 2801 6768.

Chez Moi is located at G/F Arbuthnot House, 10 – 12 Arbuthnot Road, Central, Hong Kong.

Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday : 12:00 – 15:00, 18:00 – 23:00
Sunday : Closed

WORLDHOTELS expands India Portfolio with two new hotels in Gurgaon and Bangalore

(Hong Kong, December 11, 2008) – WORLDHOTELS is delighted to announce further expansion in India by welcoming two business hotels from Bangalore and Gurgaon into the First Class Collection.

Park Premier Hotel is the newest 4-star business hotel in Gurgaon, the growing corporate hub on the outskirts of New Delhi.

The designer boutique hotel features 94 spacious and elegantly designed guest rooms and suites.

The Park Premier Hotel offers a choice of three refreshing and stylish food and beverage outlets. The Down Town Café serves popular and freshly baked dishes 24-hour a day. The fine dining restaurant 29th The Grill is renowned for its exquisite grilled platters and succulent delicacies of seafood and meat, and as well as a distinctive selection of wines. The Lounge Bar at the lobby level provides hors d’ oeuvres, delectable snacks, and cocktails as well as live entertainment in the evening.

The sophisticated conference and banquet facilities are complemented by a dedicated team of planners, chefs and service personnel who are on hand to assist with any events.

Also joining WORLDHOTELS’ First Class Collection is The Atria – the well-established business hotel located in the heart of Bangalore, India's 'Silicon Valley’. The hotel is well connected to the main business and transportation hubs and is also the closest 4 star hotel to the new Bangalore International Airport.

With a total of 168 rooms and suites, The Atria is targeted at the international traveller and provides guests with comfortable high quality stays at affordable rates. The hotel features three restaurants and a bar including the acclaimed Tijouri which serves authentic Hindustani cuisine. The other restaurants are the 1498 A.D. restaurant - a tribute to the great Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama which offers daily breakfast and lunch buffet and a la carte dinner delights, and Silk Winds which serves a variety of Asian cuisines including Cantonese and Sichuan, Japanese, Malaysian and Thai delicacies. These are complemented by the hotel’s cosy Aqua Bar. In addition, The Atria offers well equipped and extensive conference and banquet facilities which can accommodate a maximum of one thousand guests.

WORLDHOTELS Vice-President for Asia Pacific, Mr. Roland Jegge, said "We are delighted to welcome Park Premier Hotel and The Atria Hotel to our India portfolio. Following our breakthrough into the market last year with three hotels from the exclusive luxury hospitality group, Claridges Hotels & Resorts as well as two independent properties in Mumbai and Chennai our India portfolio has now grown to 7 hotels over the past 12 months. We see exciting future potential in the fast-developing India market."

For further information Park Premier Hotel and on The Atria Hotel go to www.worldhotels.com

Phuket Lifestyle Resort Indigo Pearl Voted ‘Best Design’ in Southeast Asia in Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards

(Hong Kong, December 11, 2008) – Phuket’s distinctive lifestyle resort, Indigo Pearl, has been voted 'Best Design Concept' in Southeast Asia in the prestigious annual Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA).

The accolade recognised the 5-star resort's unique fusion of modern architecture and Thai tin-mining heritage, designed by internationally renowned architect Bill Bensley.

The HAPA are organised by World Asia Publishing (WAP), which publishes the leading hospitality magazine, Hospitality Asia, honouring the region's most outstanding hotels and resorts.

Indigo Pearl topped a list of five new properties recognised for their design, ahead of the Millennium Hilton Bangkok, Maya Ubud Resort & Spa and Bulgari Resort in Bali, and G Hotel Penang.

The award was presented at a glittering ceremony on November 28 at the JW Marriot Kuala Lumpur.

The HAPA honour was collected as Indigo Pearl also topped Tripadvisor's list of 260 hotels and resorts in Phuket most applauded by online voters.

Indigo Pearl has attracted worldwide acclaim since opening two years ago next to Nai Yang Beach, just 10 minutes from Phuket International Airport.

Most recently the resort was voted among Asia’s Top 25 Best Leisure Hotels and Resorts in the Smart Travel Asia ‘Best in Travel Poll 2008’.

Last year it was named one of the best new hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler (US), 'Most Stylish Hotel' by ELLE magazine, Singapore, and ranked among the “TOP 50 Dream Resorts” by Honeymoon and Travel magazine.

It was also named one of Asia’s best new hotels in the newly released travel book “Tablet 10 Top Ten New Hotels: Asia & Africa” highlighting Asia and Africa’s ten most unique and exciting new hotels.




For more information on Indigo Pearl, please visit www.indigo-pearl.com.

For reservations, please email info@indigo-pearl.com or call +66 (0)76 327 006.

Shanghai-based Entrepreneur Chef–Restaurateur Launches Consultancy - ‘David Laris Creates’

And a new Cook Book - ‘The Menu’

(Shanghai, December 10, 2008) – Entrepreneur chef David Laris, renowned for his award-winning Laris restaurant at the landmark lifestyle destination, Three On The Bund in Shanghai, and more recently for his restaurants and bars at Swire Hotels’ new flagship hotel The Opposite House in Beijing, has launched a new consultancy developing lifestyle food and beverage concepts in China and beyond.

‘David Laris Creates Limited’ (DLC) draws upon David’s extensive and high profile experience in his native Australia, London, Asia, and for the past five years, China, in conceptualizing, developing, opening and even operating F&B concepts.

His focus is on creating and developing ‘lifestyle’ concepts adaptable to both the Chinese market and international arena – from high end fine dining and second level restaurant concepts to exclusive clubs and bars, cafés, delicatessens and boutique retail food concepts.

Creative advice and analysis expertise covers every aspect of bringing an idea or concept to reality, from conceptual design and management, to strategic planning and budgeting, menu development, appointment of key staff, tabletop selection, uniforms, staff training, procurement, entertainment and marketing.

His entrepreneurial expertise in building innovative lifestyle brands has already attracted widespread acclaim in China since opening the renowned ‘fine dining contemporary experience’ Laris at acclaimed Three On The Bund Shanghai in 2004.

The multi-award winning restaurant was also one of only three restaurants in China voted on Condé Nast Traveler's "80 Hot Tables" of the world’s top new restaurants.

He subsequently opened the Chocolate Room, a high-end chocolate brand, and Slice, a gourmet café and delicatessen concept currently with multi-store locations.

His company has also provided consultancy services and research for a number of luxury brands seeking to expand their footprint in Shanghai. These include Dunhill and Dolce & Gabbana, for which it developed and managed the popular Dolce & Gabbana Martini Bar on the Bund, as well as Barbie Shanghai (Mattel) and Axons Concepts, developers of design and lifestyle hub ‘1933 Shanghai’ in the Northern Bund district, where he is also planning to open his second high-end signature restaurant, a Steak House and retro cocktail bar.

Most recently as food & beverage consultant for five restaurants and bars at The Opposite House in Beijing, he has overseen the openings of signature Mediterranean Sureno, Asian restaurant Bei, a casual Village Café, cocktail and champagne bar MESH, late-night Club Punk, VIP dining rooms and a juice bar.

Of Australian-Greek heritage, David Laris served a classic French chef apprenticeship in Sydney, Australia.

David’s early career took him to some of the most successful restaurants across the Asia Pacific region namely the prestigious Edge Restaurant in Sydney, Mezzaluna at the Mandarin Oriental in Macau, BB's Brasserie in Hong Kong and The Press Club in Hanoi to name just a few.

He later shot to international fame in Britain, where he made numerous television appearances heading Mezzo in London, Sir Terence Conran’s flagship restaurant of world-renowned status.

His career most recently evolved into the realm of chef-restaurateur-entrepreneur in Shanghai riding on the success of his eponymous Shanghai restaurant.

With his trademark full-flavoured contemporary cuisine, championing fresh ingredients and innovative ethnic influences, his pioneering culinary concepts have helped spearhead Shanghai’s contemporary dining revolution.

“DLC is now a natural progression of my career, extending my consultancy even wider to wherever any investor with an interesting F&B idea or concept takes me,” he said.

“My specialty is now creating, building and developing strong identifiable brands.”

For more information, visit: www.davidlariscreates.com

News Flash!!

David Laris and Dean Brettschneider launch a new Cook Book ‘ The Menu’

Co-authored by David Laris and master baker and patissier Dean Brettschneider, The Menu is an inspiring collection of 15-five-course menus suitable for use in the modern home kitchen. Themes such as Celebrate, New Comfort Food and Contemporary Global Inspiration provide guidance and direction for putting together a sit-down function with family, friends or even work associates. Additional notes from David Laris on tableware, flowers, lighting , music and even conversation make this book an invaluable resource for the aspiring home cook and host. Now available in Singapore and from January in other Asian markets. For more information about availability, see: www.marshallcavendish.com or mkoh@davidlariscreates.com

Asia Luxury Travel Market returns to Shanghai for 2009

(Shanghai, 10 December, 2008) – Asia Luxury Travel Market (ALTM), now in its third year, is to be held at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre from 15th-18th June 2009 following the success and record attendance of the 2008 event.

ALTM is dedicated solely to the luxury travel industry in Asia Pacific, an area of vast growth potential and is the sister event to the highly successful International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) held annually in Cannes, France now entering its seventh year.

Organised like a private club, the invitation-only event showcases leading luxury travel suppliers to hosted VIP travel buyers. The exhibition takes place in a highly exclusive environment in which buyers and sellers meet on a unique pre-arranged appointment system.

Ann Marie Meaney, Event Manager, ALTM said “The success of Asia Luxury Travel Market 2008 firmly positions the industry’s need for a unique, appointment led luxury travel event. With the current global economic uncertainty, it has never been a more crucial time to place value and importance on the power of face to face business. ALTM 2009 continues to provide an unrivalled intraregional and outbound travel platform of quantifiable opportunities for the Asian Pacific markets.”

The feedback from both exhibitors and buyers at ALTM 2008 was phenomenal with many exhibitors already committed to returning for 2009 including The Leading Hotels of the World, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Jumeirah Hotels, Silversea Cruises, Sina Fine Italian Hotels, Amanresorts, Peninsula Hotels, Conde Nast Johansens, Six Senses Resorts & Spas and Design Hotels. Newcomers include Prestige Hotels of the World and Switzerland Tourism.

Many of the exhibitor’s comments following ALTM 2008 highlighted ALTM’s standing as Asia’s leading luxury travel trade event. “ALTM Shanghai is a great show for any luxury property that have Asia Pacific as their major feeder market and for those who wish to expand that market.” said Renata Hutasoit, Director of Sales and Marketing, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts Bali.

“Once again as an exhibitor we were impressed with the number of luxury travel agents and tour operators from all over Asia and Australasia. The efficiency of seeing so many quality buyers from such a wide area makes ALTM an essential part of our annual calendar” commented Mark Witney, Chief Operating Officer, Singita Game Reserves.

This view was echoed by many other exhibitors including Christian L. Renz, Vice President Global Sales, Kempinski Hotels, “ALTM 2008 has been very successful for Kempinski in this rapidly growing outbound market. The quality as well as the quantity of client interactions was very encouraging and we are looking forward to participate with a greater number of hotels next year.”

At ALTM 2008, the event saw exhibitor and buyers numbers double from the previous year with over 17,000 appointments held over three days.

“ALTM provided a great forum for us to meet new buyers from Asia and allowed us to build new relationships with so many interesting people” said Matthew Upchurch, CEO, Virtuoso. “We had 24 buyers and over 150 suppliers at ALTM and we welcome every opportunity to interact and work with our existing network. The ALTM team again put together a great event, with top notch networking opportunities and high quality attendees. We are excited with each year to come back to ALTM to solidify our relationships in this region, build new links to these exciting markets and build our knowledge to help with our development and global expansion.”

ALTM is organized by Reed Travel Exhibitions.

For more information please visit the ALTM website www.altm.com.cn

Lucky Chinese New Year Packages at Boutique Hotel IVY Shanghai

Packages include Dinner & Lucky Draw for all guests

(Shanghai, December 8, 2008) -- Hip new boutique hotel IVY Shanghai is offering special Chinese New Year packages including dinner and a lucky draw, priced from just RMB720 a night in fashionable Jing’an.
Special rates are valid from January 10 to February 10 at the flamboyant ‘China-pop’ hotel just a short stroll from the shopping and business hub of Nanjing West Road.
Nightly rates start at RMB720 including all taxes for Ivy Premier, rising to RMB820 for Ivy Deluxe rooms, RMB950 for a Grand Suite and RMB1,250 in a Ritzy Suite.

This package includes a complimentary 'all you can eat and drink' buffet dinner at the hotel’s Japanese teppanyaki restaurant Kuromastsu, usually priced at RMB198. It includes unlimited sake, beer and plum wine, as well as a selection of soft drinks and fruit juices.
Ivy Shanghai will be rewarding guests with fabulous prizes including complimentary breakfasts, dinning coupons and the highlight of the night will be a one night complimentary stay at Ivy Shanghai’s chic Ritzy Suite. Prizes will be drawn on 25 January (Chinese New Year’s Eve) and 9 February (Chinese Lantern Festival) at Kuromastsu restaurant at 7:30pm for guests staying over these two special nights.

In a converted 1950s cinema, IVY Shanghai’s bold styling by American-French designer Dillon Garris vamps up the interplay of ancient and modern Chinese design with funky lipstick-red lattice screens, grey brick walls reminiscent of Shanghai lanes and China pop art.

The 46-room also includes a whimsical private coffee bar and wifi lounge in a sky lit atrium on the second floor, where the cinema's original screen once stood.

IVY Shanghai is the first mainland China hotel by CHI - International, a luxury Asian hotel management firm that operates unique resorts and serviced apartments throughout Hong Kong and Fiji.