(London, May 29, 2009) -- London swings like no other city in summer and three of the British capital's most iconic luxury hotels Claridge’s, The Connaught and The Berkeley are promoting the season with a flexible menu of packages for all the family.
With the transformation of Mayfair’s Mount Street into one of the world’s most avant-garde retail streets, The Connaught boasts a prime location with Lanvin’s flagship store, as well as the capital’s first outpost of Goyard, literally on its doorstep. The legendary hotel just completed a £70 million restoration and renovation by some of the world’s finest designers and craftsmen, bringing it into the 21st Century while preserving with great care its authentic elegance, distinctive personality and intuitive style of service. The 'Bon Vivant' promotion includes a lunch or dinner at Espelette, Hélène Darroze’s more relaxed dining option at The Connaught, where she presents the freshest produce from her native Landes in South West France coupled with some of the finest ingredients from the British Isles. The package starts at £305 per night. 'Suite Heaven', starting at £495, grants access to some of London’s most sumptuous suites, many of which come complete with a fully stocked cocktail cabinet for the ultimate in in-room entertainment. Both The Connaught Bar and award-winning Coburg Bar have attracted the stylish set since they opened their doors. From the perfectly mixed martini to a champagne cocktail served in the most delicate crystal, this is place to see and be seen.
Mayfair’s Art Deco landmark, Claridge’s, welcomes guests with many elegant summer surprises this season. The hotel’s head-concierge carefully compiled a list of the capital’s top10 picnic spots, ranging from ‘Best for Children’ and ‘Best Views’ to ‘Most Romantic”. The perfect option for a leisurely afternoon, guests are sent on their way complete with a luxury picnic basket including delicious treats such as chilled champagne, gourmet finger sandwiches and fresh fruits. A ‘Timeless Weekend’ break starts from £289 per night, including a bottle of champagne upon arrival and traditional English breakfast. ‘Claridge’s Heaven’, starting at £1450, is the ultimate luxury retreat in one of the hotel’s Claridge’s Suites which have been designed by British interior design company Linley. The suite is outfitted with luxuries aplenty including seasonal hand-cut flowers, home-made chocolates, chilled champagne upon arrival and full English breakfast as well as a specially selected Linley gift. This summer, Dior and Claridge’s bring back the era of the ultimate dressing table in its signature Claridge’s and Linley Suites with the unveiling of ‘The Dior Dressing Table’. Complete with chic treats such as an elegant cream silk Claridge’s dressing gown, Les Classiques perfumes from Dior, a Dior beauty kit and cocktails from The Fumoir, this is the ultimate way to get ready for a glamorous night out. There is a £300 for this service.
In the heart of fashionable Knightsbridge, The Berkeley celebrates the arrival of summer as the hotel retracts the roof of its iconic pool and invites guests to soak up the sun. Relax on one of the sun loungers on the court-yard terrace, enjoy carefully selected organic spa treatments or take a dip in the pool while taking in panoramic views of London’s Hyde Park. ‘Primed for Summer’, available at £165 per person, is a day-spa package which includes all the necessary elements to get ready for summer such as a VOYA seaweed body wrap to energize and detox the skin, a light lunch pool-side, and a manicure and pedicure. Perfectly complementing an indulgent spa-day at The Berkeley’s roof-top retreat, ‘Suite Heaven’ starts at £395 per night for a superior junior suite and includes breakfast. Guests staying at The Berkeley on the 'Weekend Chic' package, which starts at £289 per night including a chilled bottle of Laurent Perrier upon arrival, combining the pleasure of a five-star home in residential Knightsbridge with iconic London shops such as Harrods and Harvey Nichols just a stones-throw away. The hotel’s award-winning Prêt-à-Portea, The Berkeley’s fashionable interpretation of traditional British afternoon tea, is the perfect conclusion to a day on the London style scene. Many rooms and suites at The Berkeley boast sumptuous terraces overlooking the quiet streets of London, creating the perfect setting for an evening cocktail while the sun sets.
The summer sporting calendar in and around London covers world famous events from horse racing at The Epsom Derby (5-6 June), Cricket at ICC Twenty20 World Cup (5-9 June), Tennis at Wimbledon (22 June-5 July) and Rowing at Henley Royal Regatta (1-5 July)
Also on offer in London throughout the summer are colourful events, festivals and concerts including the 250th anniversary of Kew Gardens, the O2 Wireless Festival in Hyde Park (4-5 July), Hampton Court Palace Flower Show (7-12 July), The Proms at Royal Albert Hall (17 July-12 September), Great British Beer Festival at Earls Court (4-8 August) and Europe's biggest street party, the Notting Hill Carnival (23-24 August).
For reservations, please visit www.maybourne.com or contact info@maybourne.com or phone +44 (0) 20 7107 8830
About Maybourne Hotel Group
Maybourne Hotel Group whose headquarters is in Mayfair, London, owns and manages, Claridges, The Connaught and The Berkeley three of the world’s most renowned hotels. Maybourne hotels are committed to delivering authentic and unique guest experiences that reflect the individual nature of its hotels, its guests and its people whilst maintaining a timeless elegance and intuitive service style that are the hallmarks of its properties.
‘Voted one of the UK’s 50 Best Workplaces 2009 by the Great Places to Work Institute’ – Financial Times
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Have a "Chic Picnic" this Summer with Sofitel Hotels
Hong Kong, 27 May 2009 – Are you passing through Bali or Manila? Spending a weekend with friends in London? Going on a romantic jaunt in Paris? Or stopping off in Shanghai with the family this summer? Throughout the summer, Sofitel Luxury Hotels are offering guests a ‘Chic Picnic’ package, providing a chance to explore their chosen city and take in the sights, before settling down to enjoy a sumptuous picnic of local delicacies prepared by the hotel Chef.
Sofitel hotels are located in some of the world’s most charming and picturesque cities, each with plenty to explore. From the Summer Palace (Beijing), the City of Flowers (Dalat), the Tuileries gardens (Paris), and the famous canals of Amsterdam, Sofitel hotels are located near some of the world’s most idyllic picnic spots (some good ideas in the following pages).
True to Sofitel’s reputation for great hospitality, the picnic baskets will be personalised to each city and can be tailored accordingly to guest’s specific tastes and needs. In addition, the basket will contain many tempting gastronomic delights that are traditionally found in French kitchens.
For a three-night minimum stay, the Chic Picnic Package, available from 1 June to 31 August 2009, includes:
- the accommodation
- late check-out guaranteed
- a delicious picnic basket to enjoy during the stay
For all bookings made before 5 July 2009, Sofitel will offer a free night’s accommodation for all 4-night breaks, or 2 free nights’ accommodation for all 8-night stays.
For more information: www.sofitel-chicpicnic.com
At each hotel the staff are on hand to recommend the perfect spots for guests to enjoy their picnics. For example:
Sofitel Bangkok Silom
Escape from the hustle and bustle of this vibrant city in one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest parks – Lumpini. Relax in Bangkok’s answer to ‘Central Park’, which sees concerts and other events taking place all through the cool season with just about every activity imaginable available, including a library.
Sofitel Shanghai Hyland
Visit Lu Xun Park and watch in awe as the elderly residents of this metropolis practise traditional forms of exercise and leisure activities in this popular public space. Alternatively let the megacity slip away from you and enjoy your picnic in Chang Feng Park where a soothing atmosphere is ensured thanks to new plants in bloom all year round.
Sofitel Wanda Beijing
Once a summer retreat for emperors, this 290-acre park named Summer Palace is still a retreat for the crowd-weary tourist. It’s the perfect place to relax or stroll around ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and a huge lake, stopping along the way to enjoy your basket of treats.
Sofitel Seminyak Bali
With peace and innermost serenity as two of the main Balinese psychological traits, parks and gardens are central to their existence. Enjoy your picnic with the most eclectic company in any of the animal parks that Bali has to offer; from elephant to butterfly, you’re sure to be wowed by nature at it’s most beautiful.
Sofitel Dalat Palace
Situated right next to a lake, in the heart of Dalat, this hotel provides an easy way to enjoy your picnic. Guests are surrounded by a beautiful park, which retains its original 1920’s style and charm. Venture further a field and you are spoilt for choice with places to enjoy your basket, they don’t call it the ‘city of flowers’ for nothing.
Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16
Within the all-encompassing vibrant city, you can have a relaxing picnic in Macau’s unruffled and scenic parks. Wander around the marvelous buildings built amidst serene Chinese gardens and enjoy your food in the company of the finest Gothic architecture of the colonial period.
Sofitel Metropole Hanoi
The capital city, Hanoi, has some of the most beautiful national parks and gardens in Vietnam. Take your picnic to any of the parks, such as Quoc Tu Giam Park, and the lush foliage and soft greenery all around will be a treat to your eyes whilst the food will be a treat to your tastebuds.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
Guests staying in Manila should take their baskets to Paco Park, a unique landmark in the city. Take a leisurely stroll to better admire the tranquil beauty of the park before experiencing Paco Park Presents, a yearlong series of free concerts and cultural events held every Friday evening. Or why not take a stroll around Rizal Park, considered the symbolic seat of the nation’s heart and soul.
Sofitel London St James
In the heart of the city, set amongst some of London’s greatest attractions Sofitel St James provides the perfect location from which to explore London. Guests can enjoy their picnic in any one of the nearby Royal parks: Green Park, St James Park, Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park.
Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg
Guests can relax among the biggest and oldest formal gardens in Paris at the famous Jardin des Tuileries; immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a Parisian hotspot along the banks of the Seine; or take in the beautiful monuments and museums at the Esplanade des Invalides, and enjoy their picnic on the lawns.
Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand
Located at the heart of the city, guests of Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand are just minutes away from the highly popular Vondelpark with an open-air theatre or the Centrum de Roos, a rose garden containing 70 different varieties of rose; or guests can visit Durgerdam, a small, picturesque village just 7 km to the east of the city. For a more unusual setting, guests can hire a private boat for a picnic on the canals.
This offer is valid from 1 June to 31 August 2009
Information, Conditions & Bookings: www.sofitel-chicpicnic.com
* * * * *
Sofitel, World Class Hotels & French Elegance
Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents, in more than 50 countries. Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts adapted to today’s more demanding and more versatile consumers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, New York or Bangkok, or nestled away in a country landscape in French Polynesia or Brazil, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French art de vivre.
Discover Sofitel on www.sofitel.com
Discover A|Club at Sofitel, the new worldwide Accor loyalty program on www.a-club.com
Relais & Châteaux Celebrating Landmark Year of Asia Expansion
(Hong Kong, 27 May, 2009) — Relais & Châteaux is celebrating a landmark year of expansion in Asia with the online launch of its Chinese Website in May (www.relaischateaux.cn).
The last year has seen Relais & Châteaux expand in Asia as well as worldwide with the launch of their 2nd edition of the Asia-Pacific Guide, a new design for the International guide, the launch of a Grands Chefs website as well as the addition of several new members in Asia.
Still to come, Relais & Châteaux will also be introducing new call centers for the region in Singapore and Thailand. As well as expanding the Asia-Pacific delegation by adding separate delegations for Australia, New Zealand and Asia.
Relais & Châteaux now features an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants worldwide, extending to 60 countries. As a result, the Relais & Châteaux website (www.relaischateaux.com) is also now available in six languages, with the latest being Chinese – allowing Relais & Châteaux to tap into the ever-growing China market.
The last year also saw the launch of the second edition of Relais & Châteaux’s Asia Pacific guide – including thematic itineraries – making the “Route du Bonheur” come alive.
Among around 30 of the latest Asian members to join the prestigious Relais & Châteaux family are Saint Pierre in Singapore, Mahua Kothi and The Malabar House in India, The Beach House at Manafaru Maldives and two leading Japanese hotels, Beniya Mukayu in Ishikawa-Ken and Tobira Onsen Myojinkan in Matsumoto Nagano.
In Oceania, Jacques-Reymond in Melbourne also joins as a prestigious Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux, along with New Zealand entrants Mollies in Auckland, Corstorphine House in Dunedin and Otahuna Lodge in Tai Tapu.
As well as the international website, Relais & Châteaux also recently launched the ultimate online guide to the world's leading chefs and their restaurants.
The website www.grandschefs.com is a benchmark guide for gourmets, showcasing 160 of the world's culinary elite from five continents -- together accounting for over 350 Michelin stars!
The legendary chefs are in cities from New York, Geneva and Sydney to Tokyo, London and Paris -- including such eponymous names as Patrick Henriroux in Vienne, Michel Roux Jr. in London and Jean-Georges and Thomas Keller in New York.
Grands Chefs in Asia include Ivan Li in Shanghai, Kiyomi Mikuni in Tokyo and Emmanuel Stroobant in Singapore among others
Jaume Tàpies, International President of Relais & Châteaux, said: "The accolades in the world's premier restaurant awards confirm our pre-eminence as the finest global collection of hotels and restaurants, while expansion in Asia re-affirms our commitment to create a truly global family.
"Both our brand website and grandschefs.com are tools to promote not only the excellence of Relais & Châteaux but also fine dining around the world.”
ABOUT RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 56 countries.
Established in France in 1954, the Association’s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
Furthermore, Relais & Châteaux is also a family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world who share a passion for and a personal commitment to ensuring their guests are privy to moments of exceptional harmony, an unforgettable celebration of the senses.
From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
The Relais & Châteaux signature reflects this ambition: “ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD”.
Information and reservations:
China + 86 21 6279 8170
Shanghai + 86 21 5212 2067
Hong Kong + 852 3121 3616
Australia, New Zealand + 61 2 9299 2280
South East Asia coming soon
Website: www.relaischateaux.com
The last year has seen Relais & Châteaux expand in Asia as well as worldwide with the launch of their 2nd edition of the Asia-Pacific Guide, a new design for the International guide, the launch of a Grands Chefs website as well as the addition of several new members in Asia.
Still to come, Relais & Châteaux will also be introducing new call centers for the region in Singapore and Thailand. As well as expanding the Asia-Pacific delegation by adding separate delegations for Australia, New Zealand and Asia.
Relais & Châteaux now features an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants worldwide, extending to 60 countries. As a result, the Relais & Châteaux website (www.relaischateaux.com) is also now available in six languages, with the latest being Chinese – allowing Relais & Châteaux to tap into the ever-growing China market.
The last year also saw the launch of the second edition of Relais & Châteaux’s Asia Pacific guide – including thematic itineraries – making the “Route du Bonheur” come alive.
Among around 30 of the latest Asian members to join the prestigious Relais & Châteaux family are Saint Pierre in Singapore, Mahua Kothi and The Malabar House in India, The Beach House at Manafaru Maldives and two leading Japanese hotels, Beniya Mukayu in Ishikawa-Ken and Tobira Onsen Myojinkan in Matsumoto Nagano.
In Oceania, Jacques-Reymond in Melbourne also joins as a prestigious Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux, along with New Zealand entrants Mollies in Auckland, Corstorphine House in Dunedin and Otahuna Lodge in Tai Tapu.
As well as the international website, Relais & Châteaux also recently launched the ultimate online guide to the world's leading chefs and their restaurants.
The website www.grandschefs.com is a benchmark guide for gourmets, showcasing 160 of the world's culinary elite from five continents -- together accounting for over 350 Michelin stars!
The legendary chefs are in cities from New York, Geneva and Sydney to Tokyo, London and Paris -- including such eponymous names as Patrick Henriroux in Vienne, Michel Roux Jr. in London and Jean-Georges and Thomas Keller in New York.
Grands Chefs in Asia include Ivan Li in Shanghai, Kiyomi Mikuni in Tokyo and Emmanuel Stroobant in Singapore among others
Jaume Tàpies, International President of Relais & Châteaux, said: "The accolades in the world's premier restaurant awards confirm our pre-eminence as the finest global collection of hotels and restaurants, while expansion in Asia re-affirms our commitment to create a truly global family.
"Both our brand website and grandschefs.com are tools to promote not only the excellence of Relais & Châteaux but also fine dining around the world.”
ABOUT RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 56 countries.
Established in France in 1954, the Association’s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
Furthermore, Relais & Châteaux is also a family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world who share a passion for and a personal commitment to ensuring their guests are privy to moments of exceptional harmony, an unforgettable celebration of the senses.
From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
The Relais & Châteaux signature reflects this ambition: “ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD”.
Information and reservations:
China + 86 21 6279 8170
Shanghai + 86 21 5212 2067
Hong Kong + 852 3121 3616
Australia, New Zealand + 61 2 9299 2280
South East Asia coming soon
Website: www.relaischateaux.com
Glenmorangie Sensory Revelation Menu at T'ang Court - Unique Whisky Pairing Menu from 16 June to 15 August
(Hong Kong – 27 May 2009) – Award-winning single malt whisky brand, Glenmorangie, is being twinned with the Two-Michelin-Star T’ang Court, the signature Chinese restaurant at The Langham for an exquisite “Sensory Revelation Menu” which pairs the finest of authentic Cantonese cuisine and the most delicious malt whisky in the world.
Revolutionising the tradition of cognac served at Chinese banquets, the 6-course “Sensory Revelation Menu” features a paired Glenmorangie with every dish. Available from 16 June to 15 August, the menu is priced at HK$1,480 per head (plus 10% service charge). On 16 June evening, the price also includes one complimentary bottle of the brand’s Original single malt for each guest to take home to celebrate the introduction of this special tasting menu.
The dinner reveals a kaleidoscope journey for all diners. It starts with Glenmorangie Original, Britain’s top-selling single malt, served with T’ang Court’s award-winning seafood dish – Sautéed Prawn and Crab Roe with Golden-fried Pork and Crab Meat Puff. Sautéed swiftly in the hot wok, the freshness and richness of big prawns and the crispy texture of crab meat puff is perfectly matched with the alluring complexity of the Glenmorangie Original.
Velvety-textured Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, which is extra matured in ruby port pipes, is next matched with the rich and smooth character of the supreme broth of Braised Shark’s Fin with Crab Meat.
Pairing with the fruity aroma and refreshing flavour of Crispy-fried Garoupa with Pomelo, Chili and Lime Juice is Glenmorangie Nectar D’Or, which is sumptuous and syrupy from extra maturation in hand-selected Sauterne wine barriques.
Imperial-style Golden-fried Chicken Wing Filled with Bird’s Nest and Yunnan Ham delights diners with its light and crunchy texture. The savoury, juicy flavour of the fillings blend in perfectly with luscious Glenmorangie Lasanta, which is elegant and sweet from being extra-matured in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks, after at least 10 years in bourbon casks.
Glenmorangie 18 Years Old then accompanies Sautéed Bitter Marrow with Sliced Loofah, Fungus, Lily Buds and Gingko; and Glenmorangie 25 Years Old is served with Baked Seafood Rice with Cream Sauce in Crab Shell.
The menu is completed with dessert of chilled sago cream with star fruit and mango juice, waking up your palates before the finale of Chinese petit fours.
For reservations, please call The Langham, Hong Kong at +852 2375 1133.
*Guests are requested to make bookings 1 day in advance (except for kick-off dinner on 16 June).
The promotion is for a minimum of two persons.
Revolutionising the tradition of cognac served at Chinese banquets, the 6-course “Sensory Revelation Menu” features a paired Glenmorangie with every dish. Available from 16 June to 15 August, the menu is priced at HK$1,480 per head (plus 10% service charge). On 16 June evening, the price also includes one complimentary bottle of the brand’s Original single malt for each guest to take home to celebrate the introduction of this special tasting menu.
The dinner reveals a kaleidoscope journey for all diners. It starts with Glenmorangie Original, Britain’s top-selling single malt, served with T’ang Court’s award-winning seafood dish – Sautéed Prawn and Crab Roe with Golden-fried Pork and Crab Meat Puff. Sautéed swiftly in the hot wok, the freshness and richness of big prawns and the crispy texture of crab meat puff is perfectly matched with the alluring complexity of the Glenmorangie Original.
Velvety-textured Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, which is extra matured in ruby port pipes, is next matched with the rich and smooth character of the supreme broth of Braised Shark’s Fin with Crab Meat.
Pairing with the fruity aroma and refreshing flavour of Crispy-fried Garoupa with Pomelo, Chili and Lime Juice is Glenmorangie Nectar D’Or, which is sumptuous and syrupy from extra maturation in hand-selected Sauterne wine barriques.
Imperial-style Golden-fried Chicken Wing Filled with Bird’s Nest and Yunnan Ham delights diners with its light and crunchy texture. The savoury, juicy flavour of the fillings blend in perfectly with luscious Glenmorangie Lasanta, which is elegant and sweet from being extra-matured in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks, after at least 10 years in bourbon casks.
Glenmorangie 18 Years Old then accompanies Sautéed Bitter Marrow with Sliced Loofah, Fungus, Lily Buds and Gingko; and Glenmorangie 25 Years Old is served with Baked Seafood Rice with Cream Sauce in Crab Shell.
The menu is completed with dessert of chilled sago cream with star fruit and mango juice, waking up your palates before the finale of Chinese petit fours.
For reservations, please call The Langham, Hong Kong at +852 2375 1133.
*Guests are requested to make bookings 1 day in advance (except for kick-off dinner on 16 June).
The promotion is for a minimum of two persons.
GREEN T HOUSE Living Launches The Bath House Residence
(Beijing, 27, May, 2009) – Set to open on 31st May 2009, GREEN T. HOUSE Living’s funky new Bath House Residence aims to revive China’s ancient zen bathing culture in a cool, contemporary yet ultra luxurious style at Beijing’s top lifestyle destination GREEN T. HOUSE Living.
Inspired by the bath house of a Tang Dynasty Emperor, The Bath House Residence was designed by the venue’s glamorous founder, musician, tea-master and trend-setter JinR. It is her first venture that extends the GREEN T. HOUSE brand beyond tea houses and restaurants and into the wider arena of spa and hospitality – while taking the same invigorating and surprising “new China” approach for which her brand is renowned.
The lifestyle destination now adds to the existing teahouse, fine dining, art and cultural events space a new bath and residence component for private bookings which includes a vast indoor green tea bath and a sumptuous onsen-style rooftop Jacuzzi for up to 20.
The private villa is set in its own fragrant garden within the 15,000 square metre grounds of GREEN T. HOUSE Living, which was last year named as one of the world’s hottest new venues by Condé Nast Traveler.
“The Bath House Residence expresses through nature’s elegance the interaction between human beings’ understanding of our outside environment and of our inner selves. It is designed to ensure that guests take time out to recharge, since the most beautiful journey to be had is the one of our inner travels, where the journey itself is its own reward,” says JinR of her philosophy in creating this tranquil yet surprising space.
The 1500 square metre Bath House Residence can sleep up to ten for ‘high end slumber parties’ in loft bedrooms as well as traditional curtained four poster “emperor’s beds” in the open living space and includes an enormous GREEN T. infused hot steam bath which is revitalising to the skin and rich in anti-oxidants.
The Bath House Residence takes only one booking at a time, but this can be for as few as two people or up to a group of eight for overnight stays, and can be up to 25 people for daytime Bathing Retreats which are usually combined with dinner or lunch.
These luxurious guest experiences can be customised to suit guests’ needs and may include such unique and exquisite experiences as GREEN T. HOUSE’s signature fine dining with wines champagnes and cocktails, tea ceremonies, bathing rituals and massage therapies inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and complete with signature GREEN T. oils and seasonal bath products. One unique and decadent offering is the GREEN T. HOUSE eight hands massage, the ultimate in indulgent pampering fit for an Emperor.
All of this, uniquely, can take place in the presence of contemporary Chinese video art and live musical performances with classical Chinese instruments.
Before embarking on this unique experience, guests change into Chinese Song dynasty inspired robes made of the finest raw cotton from Xinjiang province - first discovered on the Silk Road centuries ago.
At the core of the Bath House Residence is an immense 12-metre long communal dining table, carved from a single tree trunk, and a giant open fireplace with a roaring log fire. An open kitchen features a counter slab of unhewn stone.
Interiors are tastefully designed with hand-picked Chinese antiques, screens, furnishings and lamps, and artfully merged with contemporary Italian and New York designer fittings.
The villa grounds incorporate a ‘Tea Reflection Room’ – a mirrored, cube shaped room for traditionally inspired tea ceremonies and meditation which overlooks a thousand square metre black stone reflecting pool designed to mirror the sky. This together with the Bath House Residence and the original GREEN T. HOUSE Living white pavilion are the three buildings which now comprise the completed GREEN T. HOUSE Living experience.
In the Bath House Residence,
a contemporary art space can accommodate performing musicians such as cellists or traditional bamboo flute players. It can also be used for group meetings. Even a library is incorporated, with a beautiful collection of books and a wonderful and eclectic range of music collected by world renowned musician Jin R over many years.
The loft bedrooms with black polished wooded floors have pillows filled with green tea, and guests sleep on contemporary versions of traditional hand-stuffed cotton bedding.
A gigantic egg-shaped bathtub is cut into the black stone of the floor, while a stairway leads to the open rooftop terrace and oversized Jacuzzi, a circulating mineral spring bath and waterfall. Both of them have space for anything up to a maximum of 20 intimate friends.
“In the winter guests can relax in a hot tub bath while it is snowing!” said JinR.
The zen-like experience restores a Tang Dynasty tradition dating back nearly a thousand years which has all but disappeared in China. It complements a unique blend of China’s ancient culture, cuisine and philosophy at the pavilion-style GREEN T. HOUSE Living. It also corresponds to the founder’s vision of “presenting an authentic Chinese experience, but in a way that you’ve never imagined.”
Inspired by the bath house of a Tang Dynasty Emperor, The Bath House Residence was designed by the venue’s glamorous founder, musician, tea-master and trend-setter JinR. It is her first venture that extends the GREEN T. HOUSE brand beyond tea houses and restaurants and into the wider arena of spa and hospitality – while taking the same invigorating and surprising “new China” approach for which her brand is renowned.
The lifestyle destination now adds to the existing teahouse, fine dining, art and cultural events space a new bath and residence component for private bookings which includes a vast indoor green tea bath and a sumptuous onsen-style rooftop Jacuzzi for up to 20.
The private villa is set in its own fragrant garden within the 15,000 square metre grounds of GREEN T. HOUSE Living, which was last year named as one of the world’s hottest new venues by Condé Nast Traveler.
“The Bath House Residence expresses through nature’s elegance the interaction between human beings’ understanding of our outside environment and of our inner selves. It is designed to ensure that guests take time out to recharge, since the most beautiful journey to be had is the one of our inner travels, where the journey itself is its own reward,” says JinR of her philosophy in creating this tranquil yet surprising space.
The 1500 square metre Bath House Residence can sleep up to ten for ‘high end slumber parties’ in loft bedrooms as well as traditional curtained four poster “emperor’s beds” in the open living space and includes an enormous GREEN T. infused hot steam bath which is revitalising to the skin and rich in anti-oxidants.
The Bath House Residence takes only one booking at a time, but this can be for as few as two people or up to a group of eight for overnight stays, and can be up to 25 people for daytime Bathing Retreats which are usually combined with dinner or lunch.
These luxurious guest experiences can be customised to suit guests’ needs and may include such unique and exquisite experiences as GREEN T. HOUSE’s signature fine dining with wines champagnes and cocktails, tea ceremonies, bathing rituals and massage therapies inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and complete with signature GREEN T. oils and seasonal bath products. One unique and decadent offering is the GREEN T. HOUSE eight hands massage, the ultimate in indulgent pampering fit for an Emperor.
All of this, uniquely, can take place in the presence of contemporary Chinese video art and live musical performances with classical Chinese instruments.
Before embarking on this unique experience, guests change into Chinese Song dynasty inspired robes made of the finest raw cotton from Xinjiang province - first discovered on the Silk Road centuries ago.
At the core of the Bath House Residence is an immense 12-metre long communal dining table, carved from a single tree trunk, and a giant open fireplace with a roaring log fire. An open kitchen features a counter slab of unhewn stone.
Interiors are tastefully designed with hand-picked Chinese antiques, screens, furnishings and lamps, and artfully merged with contemporary Italian and New York designer fittings.
The villa grounds incorporate a ‘Tea Reflection Room’ – a mirrored, cube shaped room for traditionally inspired tea ceremonies and meditation which overlooks a thousand square metre black stone reflecting pool designed to mirror the sky. This together with the Bath House Residence and the original GREEN T. HOUSE Living white pavilion are the three buildings which now comprise the completed GREEN T. HOUSE Living experience.
In the Bath House Residence,
a contemporary art space can accommodate performing musicians such as cellists or traditional bamboo flute players. It can also be used for group meetings. Even a library is incorporated, with a beautiful collection of books and a wonderful and eclectic range of music collected by world renowned musician Jin R over many years.
The loft bedrooms with black polished wooded floors have pillows filled with green tea, and guests sleep on contemporary versions of traditional hand-stuffed cotton bedding.
A gigantic egg-shaped bathtub is cut into the black stone of the floor, while a stairway leads to the open rooftop terrace and oversized Jacuzzi, a circulating mineral spring bath and waterfall. Both of them have space for anything up to a maximum of 20 intimate friends.
“In the winter guests can relax in a hot tub bath while it is snowing!” said JinR.
The zen-like experience restores a Tang Dynasty tradition dating back nearly a thousand years which has all but disappeared in China. It complements a unique blend of China’s ancient culture, cuisine and philosophy at the pavilion-style GREEN T. HOUSE Living. It also corresponds to the founder’s vision of “presenting an authentic Chinese experience, but in a way that you’ve never imagined.”
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
WORLDHOTELS Asia-Pacific Deluxe Collection Properties Scoop Trio of Prestigious Awards
(Hong Kong, May 26, 2009) WORLDHOTELS’ Deluxe Collection affiliate hotels in the Asia-Pacific have received a trio of prestigious travel industry awards.
Hotel Kunlun has been voted one of Beijing's top five business hotels; StarWorld Hotel and Casino in Macau collected an international honour for 'Best Casino Interior Design'; and Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur was honoured for best serviced apartments in the Malaysia capital.
Hotel Kunlun has been voted one of Beijing’s top five business hotels in National Geographic Traveller – China Edition’s prestigious annual Gold List 2009.
Barry Suen, General Manager of Hotel Kunlun said, “We are delighted to be recognised with such an honour as it is based on the candid opinions of readers who are experienced travellers”.
Well equipped with 15 function rooms and an 800 sqm banquet hall, Hotel Kunlun is located on the bank of the beautiful Liangma River in Beijing's Central Business District. The hotel offers 660 elegant rooms and suites and fine dining for all travellers with a selection of 13 restaurants and bars.
StarWorld Hotel in Macau, which opened in 2006, scooped the hotly-contested 2009 International Gaming Award for 'Best Casino Interior Design'.
StarWorld’s shimmering façade, contemporary interior and beautifully designed casino collectively triumphed over five extremely competitive properties in the category -- Las Vegas-based The Palazzo, Casino Monte Carlo in France, Shangri-La Storm in Russia and the Isle Capri and Opera House, both in the UK.
Deputy Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, Francis Lui applauded "a group of very talented architects, engineers and designers who invested enormous effort to develop this stunning property".
The 39-storey StarWorld Hotel offers 507 rooms, all with spectacular panoramic views and suites with a double layer exterior glass wall that creates enchanting visual effects as a result of superimposed images and reflections.
The Residence at Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur was meanwhile voted 'Best Serviced Apartment in Kuala Lumpur' in Lifestyle & Travel Asia Pacific Magazine's Readers’ Choice Awards 2008.
It was acclaimed for incorporating the convenience and luxury of a 5-star international hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur with the priceless comfort of home for business travellers on extended stays.
Prince Residence has 160-well appointed and fully furnished one-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom apartments, family apartments and a penthouse apartment for short and long-term guests.
Recreational facilities include a fitness centre with workout studio, tropical garden, and landscaped swimming pool with Jacuzzi, Kids Club and award winning, resort-style Mandara Spa.
"These accolades underline the commitment and efforts of WORLDHOTELS affiliates in the Asia-Pacific to offer above and beyond superlative service standards for business and leisure travellers," said Roland Jegge, Vice President Asia Pacific for WORLDHOTELS.
Hotel Kunlun has been voted one of Beijing's top five business hotels; StarWorld Hotel and Casino in Macau collected an international honour for 'Best Casino Interior Design'; and Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur was honoured for best serviced apartments in the Malaysia capital.
Hotel Kunlun has been voted one of Beijing’s top five business hotels in National Geographic Traveller – China Edition’s prestigious annual Gold List 2009.
Barry Suen, General Manager of Hotel Kunlun said, “We are delighted to be recognised with such an honour as it is based on the candid opinions of readers who are experienced travellers”.
Well equipped with 15 function rooms and an 800 sqm banquet hall, Hotel Kunlun is located on the bank of the beautiful Liangma River in Beijing's Central Business District. The hotel offers 660 elegant rooms and suites and fine dining for all travellers with a selection of 13 restaurants and bars.
StarWorld Hotel in Macau, which opened in 2006, scooped the hotly-contested 2009 International Gaming Award for 'Best Casino Interior Design'.
StarWorld’s shimmering façade, contemporary interior and beautifully designed casino collectively triumphed over five extremely competitive properties in the category -- Las Vegas-based The Palazzo, Casino Monte Carlo in France, Shangri-La Storm in Russia and the Isle Capri and Opera House, both in the UK.
Deputy Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, Francis Lui applauded "a group of very talented architects, engineers and designers who invested enormous effort to develop this stunning property".
The 39-storey StarWorld Hotel offers 507 rooms, all with spectacular panoramic views and suites with a double layer exterior glass wall that creates enchanting visual effects as a result of superimposed images and reflections.
The Residence at Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur was meanwhile voted 'Best Serviced Apartment in Kuala Lumpur' in Lifestyle & Travel Asia Pacific Magazine's Readers’ Choice Awards 2008.
It was acclaimed for incorporating the convenience and luxury of a 5-star international hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur with the priceless comfort of home for business travellers on extended stays.
Prince Residence has 160-well appointed and fully furnished one-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom apartments, family apartments and a penthouse apartment for short and long-term guests.
Recreational facilities include a fitness centre with workout studio, tropical garden, and landscaped swimming pool with Jacuzzi, Kids Club and award winning, resort-style Mandara Spa.
"These accolades underline the commitment and efforts of WORLDHOTELS affiliates in the Asia-Pacific to offer above and beyond superlative service standards for business and leisure travellers," said Roland Jegge, Vice President Asia Pacific for WORLDHOTELS.
"But the sale fell through and today the owner would be lucky to get more than 30 million euros, according to Alexander V. G. Kraft, Chairman and CEO
(Hong Kong, May 26, 2009) – Orient-Express is pleased to announce that its collection of four Italian hotels has re-opened for the 2009 season; each with a rejuvenated new element from beautifully refurbished rooms, to stylish new pool bar and spa treatments to uplift the senses.
In 2008, the legendary Hotel Cipriani by Orient-Express celebrated its 50th anniversary and started a three-phase renovation project, which included the refurbishment of bedrooms in the Redentore and San Giorgio wings. For 2009, a further 14 rooms have been refurbished in the San Marco wing, with views of the Antique Gardens of the property. The décor features traditional Venetian artisan crafts such as hand-made stuccos, Murano glass and fabrics by Fortuny and Rubelli. Bathrooms feature walk-in showers, Carrara marble and Byzantine-Venetian style mosaics.
Hotel Cipriani’s Casanova Wellness Centre has also been enlarged, featuring a new Sauna and Hammam, a couples massage room, an improved gym and a new hair salon. Bar Gabbiano, located next to the hotel’s famous swimming pool, has been transformed into the heart of the hotel, where guests and local Venetians can meet during summer evenings to enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere.
Many recognize the breathtaking vista from the swimming pool at Hotel Caruso by Orient-Express in Ravello, with its panoramic views across the Amalfi Coast. The experience is even more enjoyable this year as the hotel has introduced a new ‘pool concierge’ service. The service includes use of an ipod filled with music, fresh fruit and Evian water vaporizers. If guests feel the need for further relaxation, the new ‘Scent of Citrus’ spa treatment will help sooth the senses. It is a two hour treatment which begins with a reviving foot bath with essences of pink grapefruit and rosemary, followed by an all over body exfoliation with olive stones, neroli and bergamot. Oils and creams made with lavender, sandalwood and orange blossoms are then gently massaged into the skin using deep massage techniques, helping to restore the skin's natural balance and drain away toxins.
Villa San Michele by Orient-Express in Florence will continue to offer an array of cooking packages in the hotel’s impressive air conditioned cooking school, including ‘A Pasta Symphony for Three Authors’, ‘The Children’s Cooking School’ and regular lessons on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. New for 2009, the sommelier at Villa San Michele will offer wine tastings in the cellar on Wednesday and Friday, giving guests the opportunity to sample some of the best Tuscan wines.
Hotel Splendido by Orient-Express in Portofino has introduced a new spa treatment this year, incorporating the scents and essences of the lush nature surrounding the hotel. The ‘Splendido's Dream’ is a two hour ritual starting with a reviving foot bath with essences of chamomile and rosemary, followed by a de-stressing massage with lavender and rose. The body is then cocooned in an exfoliating treatment with aloe vera and olive stones, followed by a deep massage with geranium that helps to balance the body and lift the mood, while nourishing and regenerating the skin.
Fore more information on the hotels please visit:
www.hotelsplendido.com
www.hotelcipriani.com
www.hotelcaruso.com
www.villasanmichele.com
In 2008, the legendary Hotel Cipriani by Orient-Express celebrated its 50th anniversary and started a three-phase renovation project, which included the refurbishment of bedrooms in the Redentore and San Giorgio wings. For 2009, a further 14 rooms have been refurbished in the San Marco wing, with views of the Antique Gardens of the property. The décor features traditional Venetian artisan crafts such as hand-made stuccos, Murano glass and fabrics by Fortuny and Rubelli. Bathrooms feature walk-in showers, Carrara marble and Byzantine-Venetian style mosaics.
Hotel Cipriani’s Casanova Wellness Centre has also been enlarged, featuring a new Sauna and Hammam, a couples massage room, an improved gym and a new hair salon. Bar Gabbiano, located next to the hotel’s famous swimming pool, has been transformed into the heart of the hotel, where guests and local Venetians can meet during summer evenings to enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere.
Many recognize the breathtaking vista from the swimming pool at Hotel Caruso by Orient-Express in Ravello, with its panoramic views across the Amalfi Coast. The experience is even more enjoyable this year as the hotel has introduced a new ‘pool concierge’ service. The service includes use of an ipod filled with music, fresh fruit and Evian water vaporizers. If guests feel the need for further relaxation, the new ‘Scent of Citrus’ spa treatment will help sooth the senses. It is a two hour treatment which begins with a reviving foot bath with essences of pink grapefruit and rosemary, followed by an all over body exfoliation with olive stones, neroli and bergamot. Oils and creams made with lavender, sandalwood and orange blossoms are then gently massaged into the skin using deep massage techniques, helping to restore the skin's natural balance and drain away toxins.
Villa San Michele by Orient-Express in Florence will continue to offer an array of cooking packages in the hotel’s impressive air conditioned cooking school, including ‘A Pasta Symphony for Three Authors’, ‘The Children’s Cooking School’ and regular lessons on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. New for 2009, the sommelier at Villa San Michele will offer wine tastings in the cellar on Wednesday and Friday, giving guests the opportunity to sample some of the best Tuscan wines.
Hotel Splendido by Orient-Express in Portofino has introduced a new spa treatment this year, incorporating the scents and essences of the lush nature surrounding the hotel. The ‘Splendido's Dream’ is a two hour ritual starting with a reviving foot bath with essences of chamomile and rosemary, followed by a de-stressing massage with lavender and rose. The body is then cocooned in an exfoliating treatment with aloe vera and olive stones, followed by a deep massage with geranium that helps to balance the body and lift the mood, while nourishing and regenerating the skin.
Fore more information on the hotels please visit:
www.hotelsplendido.com
www.hotelcipriani.com
www.hotelcaruso.com
www.villasanmichele.com
Monday, May 25, 2009
The Essence of CHI Residences
(Hong Kong, May 25, 2009) – CHI Residences is Hong Kong’s up and coming luxury serviced apartments with all the privacy and comforts of home. Rather than staying at just another ‘starred’ hotel, serviced apartments are a more popular business traveller option than ever before.
Here are 10 Reasons for Choosing CHI while on business or holiday in Hong Kong:
1. Great value
CHI Residences are offering summer promotional rates with a 20% reduction on monthly stays at all residences. Guests can also enjoy great value weekly stays at 279 Shanghai Street, in Jordan.
2. Online booking, first 10 guests get 10% off
Making a reservation at CHI has never been easier, with new website www.chi-residences.com and online booking portal.
To celebrate the new site CHI are offering the first 10 guests who book online get a 10% discount on rates.
3. Prime locations
CHI Residences in both Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island are located in heart of entertainment and business districts, with easy access to public transport and a touch of local charm.
4. Spectacular view
Panoramic 180-degree views of Victoria Harbour are from CHI’s Hong Kong Island flagship luxury residence at 120 Connaught Road West. There is even an outdoor garden for BBQs on sultry summer evenings.
5. Clean air
All CHI Residences have air purifying systems, ensuring a refreshing welcome ‘home’ from the hustle, bustle and polluted air of the city.
6. That’s entertainment!
Extensive movie libraries are available at all CHI Residences, and apartments are equipped with 37-42” Plasma TV’s with BOSE DVD/VCD home theatre systems for great viewing.
7. Home office
Your apartment can also serve as an office at CHI Residences. Complimentary internet connections plus computers, printers and fax facilities mean you can conduct much of your business ‘at home’.
8. Make yourself at home
Cozy, comfortable ‘tai chi’ design, after which CHI takes its name, along with soft, gentle colour schemes help create your home-away-from-home. Fully equipped kitchenettes and top quality linens make sure guests feel right at home.
9. Family welcome
Not only are families welcome to stay at CHI Residences, CHI also offers room choices from a small studio to a large two bedroom apartment – catering to everyone’s needs. Personalised service and friendly staff also go out of their way to make you feel ‘part of our family’.
10. Impeccable reputation
Though CHI is a relatively new brand, the management has extensive experience in Hong Kong’s serviced apartment sector – and indeed founded the very first luxury brand. CHI is today the fastest-expanding luxury serviced apartment brand in town, with a portfolio of 125 apartments at four addresses and renown for stylish design with ‘family-style’ hospitality.
About CHI
The visionaries behind the new CHI Residences are father and daughter duo, Philip and Pilar Morais. Mr. Morais was the founding partner of the highly successful Shama concept of serviced apartments who now shares his years of expertise in this sector with his daughter.
CHI Residences launched in 2008 to provide a variety of urban residential choices to savvy travellers seeking convenience and luxury, and their own personal space.
The first CHI Residences opened its doors in 2008 at 393 Shanghai Street in the up and coming West Kowloon area. The flagship at 120 Connaught Road West on Hong Kong Island opened in August later that year. A third CHI Residences opened at 279 Shanghai Street in December and their fourth property, 314 Nathan Road opened in early 2009.
Here are 10 Reasons for Choosing CHI while on business or holiday in Hong Kong:
1. Great value
CHI Residences are offering summer promotional rates with a 20% reduction on monthly stays at all residences. Guests can also enjoy great value weekly stays at 279 Shanghai Street, in Jordan.
2. Online booking, first 10 guests get 10% off
Making a reservation at CHI has never been easier, with new website www.chi-residences.com and online booking portal.
To celebrate the new site CHI are offering the first 10 guests who book online get a 10% discount on rates.
3. Prime locations
CHI Residences in both Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island are located in heart of entertainment and business districts, with easy access to public transport and a touch of local charm.
4. Spectacular view
Panoramic 180-degree views of Victoria Harbour are from CHI’s Hong Kong Island flagship luxury residence at 120 Connaught Road West. There is even an outdoor garden for BBQs on sultry summer evenings.
5. Clean air
All CHI Residences have air purifying systems, ensuring a refreshing welcome ‘home’ from the hustle, bustle and polluted air of the city.
6. That’s entertainment!
Extensive movie libraries are available at all CHI Residences, and apartments are equipped with 37-42” Plasma TV’s with BOSE DVD/VCD home theatre systems for great viewing.
7. Home office
Your apartment can also serve as an office at CHI Residences. Complimentary internet connections plus computers, printers and fax facilities mean you can conduct much of your business ‘at home’.
8. Make yourself at home
Cozy, comfortable ‘tai chi’ design, after which CHI takes its name, along with soft, gentle colour schemes help create your home-away-from-home. Fully equipped kitchenettes and top quality linens make sure guests feel right at home.
9. Family welcome
Not only are families welcome to stay at CHI Residences, CHI also offers room choices from a small studio to a large two bedroom apartment – catering to everyone’s needs. Personalised service and friendly staff also go out of their way to make you feel ‘part of our family’.
10. Impeccable reputation
Though CHI is a relatively new brand, the management has extensive experience in Hong Kong’s serviced apartment sector – and indeed founded the very first luxury brand. CHI is today the fastest-expanding luxury serviced apartment brand in town, with a portfolio of 125 apartments at four addresses and renown for stylish design with ‘family-style’ hospitality.
About CHI
The visionaries behind the new CHI Residences are father and daughter duo, Philip and Pilar Morais. Mr. Morais was the founding partner of the highly successful Shama concept of serviced apartments who now shares his years of expertise in this sector with his daughter.
CHI Residences launched in 2008 to provide a variety of urban residential choices to savvy travellers seeking convenience and luxury, and their own personal space.
The first CHI Residences opened its doors in 2008 at 393 Shanghai Street in the up and coming West Kowloon area. The flagship at 120 Connaught Road West on Hong Kong Island opened in August later that year. A third CHI Residences opened at 279 Shanghai Street in December and their fourth property, 314 Nathan Road opened in early 2009.
The Fleming Credit Crunch Package
(Hong Kong, May 25, 2009) - Hong Kong’s chic ‘urban lifestyle hotel’ The Fleming is offering a summer 'Credit Crunch Package' with two nights for the price of one.
The promotion is valid until August 31 for pre-paid bookings reserved at least 14 days in advance.
Rates for the two nights start at HK$1,880 for a superior room at the award-winning boutique hotel in Wan Chai. The deluxe room package rate is HK$2,180, rising to HK$2,680 for executive accommodation.
Additional nights in the three room categories are respectively HK$838, HK$1,038 and HK$1,238.
The 'Credit Crunch Package' includes daily continental breakfast and complimentary mini-bar plus a 10% discount on F&B, excluding wine.
Among standard additional extras are complimentary entry to nearby California Fitness gym, free local calls, daily newspaper, DVD library, wired and wireless broadband internet access, and a 10% discount on laundry and business centre services.
Rates are subject to 10% service charge and a supplement of HK$300 is chargeable for an extra bed.
In a quiet backwater of Hong Kong's most famous nightlife district, just a stroll from the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, The Fleming was ranked on Condé Nast Traveller’s “Hot List 2007” among the world’s best new hotels, and a finalist as Best Boutique Hotel of the Year 2007 in the SCMP/Harper’s Bazaar Style Awards.
The promotion is valid until August 31 for pre-paid bookings reserved at least 14 days in advance.
Rates for the two nights start at HK$1,880 for a superior room at the award-winning boutique hotel in Wan Chai. The deluxe room package rate is HK$2,180, rising to HK$2,680 for executive accommodation.
Additional nights in the three room categories are respectively HK$838, HK$1,038 and HK$1,238.
The 'Credit Crunch Package' includes daily continental breakfast and complimentary mini-bar plus a 10% discount on F&B, excluding wine.
Among standard additional extras are complimentary entry to nearby California Fitness gym, free local calls, daily newspaper, DVD library, wired and wireless broadband internet access, and a 10% discount on laundry and business centre services.
Rates are subject to 10% service charge and a supplement of HK$300 is chargeable for an extra bed.
In a quiet backwater of Hong Kong's most famous nightlife district, just a stroll from the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, The Fleming was ranked on Condé Nast Traveller’s “Hot List 2007” among the world’s best new hotels, and a finalist as Best Boutique Hotel of the Year 2007 in the SCMP/Harper’s Bazaar Style Awards.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
The Nam Hai Hires Deva to Dig Out Region's Culinary Roots
(Hoi An, Vietnam, May 21, 2009) — More than 2,000 years after Vietnam established itself as a cultural crossroads between India and China thus “Indochina”, The Nam Hai is cultivating that heritage with the addition of fusion master Ashish Deva.
Deva, who grew up in India but is thoroughly versed in all types of cuisine via a well-exposed, 15-year cooking career, took command of the kitchen as executive chef at Vietnam’s premier resort last month.
“With The Nam Hai, we’re striving for an experience that celebrates our unique location at the most profound level,” said Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, The Nam Hai’s general manager. “You can see this in our architecture, in our landscape and now, with the addition of Ashish Deva, in our kitchen.”
Indeed, the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An itself is renowned as a fusion environment. Founded as a Cham trading port more than 1,000 years ago, the city endures as a Southeast Asian trading port that looks today largely as it did 400 years ago.
In less than six weeks, Deva has played an integral role in restructuring the restaurant concepts at the resort’s two gourmet-dining venues — The Restaurant and The Beach Restaurant — and developed new menus to go with each.
At The Restaurant, a distinct blend of Indian and contemporary cuisine takes center stage starting in July. Among the imaginative dishes to choose from are tandoori prawns with marinated watermelon cubes, mint chutney and chili oil; and chocolate-crusted foie gras au torchon with strawberry swipe, brioche and lotus seeds.
The Beach Restaurant, an elegant open-air space next to the main pool specialising in wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads, sushi and sashimi, bucks its lunch-only reputation by stepping into the dinner game, Vietnamese style. That means regional favorites — such as banh vac Hoi An (Hoi An style steamed shrimp dumplings) and ca mu nuong la chuoi (grouper in banana leaf with spice paste) all designed to share.
“Family style dining is a way of life here and has been for centuries,” said Deva. “We think that by giving guests a closer look at the eating habits across Vietnam, whilst delivering dishes in the spirit of the produce and seafood-rich Central Coast, the experience of visiting this hotel and this country will be greatly enhanced.”
The 35-year-old has worked in some of the world’s finest kitchens since breaking into the food industry in 1994. In fact, at every stop he has been affiliated with a ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ property.
His first stint was at The Leela-Mumbai, which was then a Kempinski-branded hotel. His previous posting was with The Chedi-Muscat, a GHM-managed property in Oman. In between, he engineered the menus at The Leela-Goa, set up the Indian restaurant at The Chedi-Milan and ran a promotion at The Legian-Bali. Like The Nam Hai and The Chedi Muscat, the latter two hotels are also in the GHM portfolio.
The Nam Hai offers upscale luxury accommodation never before seen on the East Sea. The villas were modeled on the traditional residences of Vietnam, known as nha ruong, but they have been creatively re-interpreted to accommodate modern technologies and amenities.
Most of the 35-hectare retreats 60 one-bedroom villas and 40 pool villas border the sea around five horseshoe-shaped spits of sand. In addition to a private stretch of beach, there are three pools available to guests, including a 50-meter-long Olympic swimming pool.
Since opening in December 2006, The Nam Hai has established a reputation as one of the hottest resorts in the world. The many accolades include the following:
• 2009 Asia Spa & Wellness Festival: ‘Best Destination Spa’
• TTG (Asia-Pacific): ‘Asia’s Best Beach Resort,’ 2008 TTG Travel Awards
• Travel + Leisure (US): ‘Best Resort,’ 2008 Design Awards
• Gourmet Traveller: One of the ‘Best New Hotels 2008’
• Conde Nast Traveller: Listed in both US and UK edition of 2007 ‘Hot List’
• Conde Nast Traveler (US): ‘One of the World’s Hottest New Hotels’ & ‘One of the World’s Top New Spas’
• Conde Nast Traveller (UK): ‘One of the World’s Top 75 Hotels’
• Gourmet Traveller: One of the ‘Best of the Best’ new hotels
• Travel + Leisure (US): Inclusion in the ‘It List’ 2007
• Travel + Leisure (Australia): Inclusion in the ‘It List’ 2007
• Cigar Aficionado (US): ‘Best New International Beach Resort 2007’
The five-star resort is a member of the prestigious The Leading Small Hotels of the World and Virtuoso.
For more information on The Nam Hai and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com.
Deva, who grew up in India but is thoroughly versed in all types of cuisine via a well-exposed, 15-year cooking career, took command of the kitchen as executive chef at Vietnam’s premier resort last month.
“With The Nam Hai, we’re striving for an experience that celebrates our unique location at the most profound level,” said Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, The Nam Hai’s general manager. “You can see this in our architecture, in our landscape and now, with the addition of Ashish Deva, in our kitchen.”
Indeed, the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An itself is renowned as a fusion environment. Founded as a Cham trading port more than 1,000 years ago, the city endures as a Southeast Asian trading port that looks today largely as it did 400 years ago.
In less than six weeks, Deva has played an integral role in restructuring the restaurant concepts at the resort’s two gourmet-dining venues — The Restaurant and The Beach Restaurant — and developed new menus to go with each.
At The Restaurant, a distinct blend of Indian and contemporary cuisine takes center stage starting in July. Among the imaginative dishes to choose from are tandoori prawns with marinated watermelon cubes, mint chutney and chili oil; and chocolate-crusted foie gras au torchon with strawberry swipe, brioche and lotus seeds.
The Beach Restaurant, an elegant open-air space next to the main pool specialising in wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads, sushi and sashimi, bucks its lunch-only reputation by stepping into the dinner game, Vietnamese style. That means regional favorites — such as banh vac Hoi An (Hoi An style steamed shrimp dumplings) and ca mu nuong la chuoi (grouper in banana leaf with spice paste) all designed to share.
“Family style dining is a way of life here and has been for centuries,” said Deva. “We think that by giving guests a closer look at the eating habits across Vietnam, whilst delivering dishes in the spirit of the produce and seafood-rich Central Coast, the experience of visiting this hotel and this country will be greatly enhanced.”
The 35-year-old has worked in some of the world’s finest kitchens since breaking into the food industry in 1994. In fact, at every stop he has been affiliated with a ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ property.
His first stint was at The Leela-Mumbai, which was then a Kempinski-branded hotel. His previous posting was with The Chedi-Muscat, a GHM-managed property in Oman. In between, he engineered the menus at The Leela-Goa, set up the Indian restaurant at The Chedi-Milan and ran a promotion at The Legian-Bali. Like The Nam Hai and The Chedi Muscat, the latter two hotels are also in the GHM portfolio.
The Nam Hai offers upscale luxury accommodation never before seen on the East Sea. The villas were modeled on the traditional residences of Vietnam, known as nha ruong, but they have been creatively re-interpreted to accommodate modern technologies and amenities.
Most of the 35-hectare retreats 60 one-bedroom villas and 40 pool villas border the sea around five horseshoe-shaped spits of sand. In addition to a private stretch of beach, there are three pools available to guests, including a 50-meter-long Olympic swimming pool.
Since opening in December 2006, The Nam Hai has established a reputation as one of the hottest resorts in the world. The many accolades include the following:
• 2009 Asia Spa & Wellness Festival: ‘Best Destination Spa’
• TTG (Asia-Pacific): ‘Asia’s Best Beach Resort,’ 2008 TTG Travel Awards
• Travel + Leisure (US): ‘Best Resort,’ 2008 Design Awards
• Gourmet Traveller: One of the ‘Best New Hotels 2008’
• Conde Nast Traveller: Listed in both US and UK edition of 2007 ‘Hot List’
• Conde Nast Traveler (US): ‘One of the World’s Hottest New Hotels’ & ‘One of the World’s Top New Spas’
• Conde Nast Traveller (UK): ‘One of the World’s Top 75 Hotels’
• Gourmet Traveller: One of the ‘Best of the Best’ new hotels
• Travel + Leisure (US): Inclusion in the ‘It List’ 2007
• Travel + Leisure (Australia): Inclusion in the ‘It List’ 2007
• Cigar Aficionado (US): ‘Best New International Beach Resort 2007’
The five-star resort is a member of the prestigious The Leading Small Hotels of the World and Virtuoso.
For more information on The Nam Hai and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
zuma Celebrates 2nd Anniversary
(Hong Kong, May 21, 2009) – Dynamic Japanese restaurant and lounge zuma at The Landmark is celebrating its 2nd Anniversary on June 4 with drinks, snacks and DJs going late into the night, highlighting zuma lounge.
zuma’s 2nd Anniversary celebration is open to all with the festivities kicking off at 9 pm. zuma will also be showcasing its new ‘shooter’ menu with tasters throughout the night whilst their new late night bar menu will be the perfect way to satisfy late night munchies with favourites such as spicy rock shrimp with spicy yuzu mayo and asahi beer battered black cod. The night comes to a climax with the ‘breaking of the sake barrel’ late in the night, with sake for all.
By popular demand, zuma’s 6th floor lounge has evolved into Hong Kong’s newest late night hotspot with a new club-style vibe, extended late-night opening hours, state-of-the-art sound system and a funky re-design. The new sound system is designed for late night beats and a lighter, new Japanese-inspired interior design incorporating lounge sofas in vibrant colors.
Complementing the new late night look – zuma has incorporated an original bottle service for the serious party-goers incorporating their own unique twist to the traditional mixers with choices such as Yuzu Soda, White Grape soda, Apple & Mint Juice and more.
New resident DJs will be performing from Thursday to Saturday, spinning re-mixes through the decades catering for a wide age-range of guests. There is something for everyone with upbeat tempos changing as the night progresses.
International guest DJs will also perform every six to eight weeks, placing zuma firmly on the clubbers' map. Themed 'zuma Parties' will also be regular events with opening hours extending until 1.30am on Wednesday and Thursday, and 2am on Friday and Saturday.
The lounge’s cool party vibe will also extend to the outside terrace overlooking Central with music from the lounge keeping guests in the groove.
"It will be an exciting new nightspot in Hong Kong, with a distinctive style catering for a wide range of clientele," said Christian Talpo, General Manager of zuma Hong Kong.
The venue set the benchmark for its new concept with the first 'big name' international DJ performing on May 8 -- the cult American DJ, singer and producer Romanthony, the voice of Daft Punk’s global hit ‘One More Time’.
The new concept is inspired by the success of zuma Dubai, which has become one of the hottest nightspots in the Middle East and was listed on Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List of New Night Spots.
Address: Level 6, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
For reservations: (852) 3657 6388
zuma’s 2nd Anniversary celebration is open to all with the festivities kicking off at 9 pm. zuma will also be showcasing its new ‘shooter’ menu with tasters throughout the night whilst their new late night bar menu will be the perfect way to satisfy late night munchies with favourites such as spicy rock shrimp with spicy yuzu mayo and asahi beer battered black cod. The night comes to a climax with the ‘breaking of the sake barrel’ late in the night, with sake for all.
By popular demand, zuma’s 6th floor lounge has evolved into Hong Kong’s newest late night hotspot with a new club-style vibe, extended late-night opening hours, state-of-the-art sound system and a funky re-design. The new sound system is designed for late night beats and a lighter, new Japanese-inspired interior design incorporating lounge sofas in vibrant colors.
Complementing the new late night look – zuma has incorporated an original bottle service for the serious party-goers incorporating their own unique twist to the traditional mixers with choices such as Yuzu Soda, White Grape soda, Apple & Mint Juice and more.
New resident DJs will be performing from Thursday to Saturday, spinning re-mixes through the decades catering for a wide age-range of guests. There is something for everyone with upbeat tempos changing as the night progresses.
International guest DJs will also perform every six to eight weeks, placing zuma firmly on the clubbers' map. Themed 'zuma Parties' will also be regular events with opening hours extending until 1.30am on Wednesday and Thursday, and 2am on Friday and Saturday.
The lounge’s cool party vibe will also extend to the outside terrace overlooking Central with music from the lounge keeping guests in the groove.
"It will be an exciting new nightspot in Hong Kong, with a distinctive style catering for a wide range of clientele," said Christian Talpo, General Manager of zuma Hong Kong.
The venue set the benchmark for its new concept with the first 'big name' international DJ performing on May 8 -- the cult American DJ, singer and producer Romanthony, the voice of Daft Punk’s global hit ‘One More Time’.
The new concept is inspired by the success of zuma Dubai, which has become one of the hottest nightspots in the Middle East and was listed on Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List of New Night Spots.
Address: Level 6, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
For reservations: (852) 3657 6388
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Vietnam's Premier Properties Tee up Sensational Golf Specials
HONG KONG, 19 May 2009 — Vietnam’s two of top golf courses have teamed with three of the country’s leading hotels on a bundle of unbeatable vacation packages were announced today.The bargain start in Dalat, where for just USD $81 per person per night players receive a Standard Room at the historic Novotel Dalat hotel, 18 holes of golf with caddie at the Dalat Palace Golf Club and breakfast at Café de la Poste. Stay in a suite and the price is still sweet: USD $139 per night. What’s more, if guests book more than a night, they receive unlimited golf privileges during their stay.
Those who prefer the next level of luxury in Dalat win, too — thanks to the 5-star Sofitel Dalat Palace, which is offering a Superior Room and 18 holes of golf with caddie at the Dalat Palace Golf Club for USD $150 per person per night. The deal includes breakfast at La Rabelais restaurant — in the hotel’s lobby. As with the Novotel, guests opting to extend their stay receive unlimited golf.
“If you’re a golfer, these packages couldn’t be more attractive,” said Jeff Puchalski, Dalat Palace GC’s director of golf. “You get great golf and luxury lodging for next to nothing. To steal a golf term, they’re right down the fairway.” They’re not limited to Dalat, either. Specials can also be scored in Phan Thiet, where the Novotel Ocean Dunes & Golf Resort has gotten into the swing of things, even as high season tees off.
Binh Thuan Province’s foremost beachfront property is offering links lovers a Standard Room and 18 holes of golf with caddie at the Ocean Dunes Golf Club for USD $110. Breakfast at either Seahorse restaurant — on the hotel’s ground floor — or the course’s clubhouse is included in that price. Just as in Dalat, stay at least two nights, and enjoy unlimited golf.
“It’s the perfect time to play too because the club’s tournament schedule dies down this part of year,” said Kenny Saunders, Ocean Dunes GC’s operations manager. “You can pretty much tee it up, whenever you want. And because there’s less traffic, the course is in great shape.”
“Last October, the Dalat Palace Golf Tournament, representing the funds has deposited US$6,000. This amount of money will be donating to help the disable children. This is small part of our contributions which helps lighten up their lives,” said Tony Chisholm, General Manager of Sofitel and Novotel Dalat.
In its 2003, 2005 and 2007 Planet Golf surveys, Golf Digest (USA) rated Dalat Palace and Ocean Dunes golf clubs Nos. 1 and 2 in the country, respectively. The 43-room Sofitel Dalat Palace was built in 1922 as the anchor to the fledgling colonial resort of Dalat, 300 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. Twelve years later, the 140-room Novotel Dalat was erected as an annex to the Palace.
The Novotel Ocean Dunes & Golf Resort was the first resort to grace the shores of Vietnam when it opened in 1996. Embraced on three sides by a Nick Faldo - designed golf course and by a private, 1.5-kilometer stretch of the East Sea, the six-storey, 123-room facility continues to stand as beacon of the vibrant resort scene along the South-Central Coast.
For more information on these hole-in-one offers, call (84-8) 3520 2045,
email sales@vietnamgolfresorts.com, or visit www.vietnamgolfresorts.com
Monday, May 18, 2009
WORLDHOTELS Introduces a World of Romantic Experiences with 45 Honeymoon Packages
(Hong Kong, May 18, 2009) – As the wedding season kicks in, WORLDHOTELS, the global hotel group for independent hotels, has launched a series of new honeymoon packages in 45 of its hotels around the world in exciting destinations such as Bintan, Beijing, Hong Kong, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Rome, Amsterdam, Granada, Lucerne and Prague. All of these special offers can be booked on worldhotels.com and are available until December 31, 2009.
Couples looking for a luxurious hideaway will find just that amidst lush tropical gardens at Indigo Pearl in Phuket, Thailand. The five-star resort, part of the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection is offering a “Lovers Escape” package. Newlyweds will enjoy two night’s accommodation, breakfast in bed, a bottle of champagne, a special honeymoon spa package for two, a four-course candlelight dinner, personalized bathrobes and a special gift set. The couple will also receive a 20 per cent discount on all food and beverages. Prices start at around 480 EUR (approximately: US$ 640) per couple.
Couples wishing to discover premier world-class attractions in Beijing can enjoy the extensive wellness and dining facilities at the Loong Palace Resort & Spa in north Beijing, China. The Honeymoon 2009 Package at the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection’s five-star hotel includes one night accommodation, in-room breakfast, a bottle of wine upon arrival, a 15 minute couples massage, complimentary use of the hotel’s wellness and fitness facilities and a special gift. Prices start at around 110 EUR (approximately: US$ 145).
The Grand Hotel Karel V in Utrecht, Netherlands has created the “I Do” package, a special offer for honeymooners. During a minimum stay of one night in one of the Empire Suites, newlyweds will enjoy in-room breakfast, a small bottle of champagne and a miniature wedding cake. In addition, a set of “Just Married” T-shirts and a luxury bath and shower gift set is provided for the couple. The Grand Hotel Karel V is part of the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection and uniquely located in a former monastery in the historical centre of Utrecht. Prices start at 350 EUR (approximately: US$ 466) per couple.
Another WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection property, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort in Monte Carlo, Monaco, has introduced a stunning package for honeymooners. This special offer includes three nights accommodation, in-room breakfast, a romantic dinner for two at the Blue Bay restaurant and free access to the Casino de Monte-Carlo and the resort’s spa facilities. In addition, guests receive a 50 per cent discount at Monte-Carlo Golf Club and Monte-Carlo Country Club. The couple is also treated to champagne, chocolate and flowers upon arrival. The Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort is located directly by the waterfront and offers an in-house casino as well as a stunning saltwater lagoon. The three-night package is available from 1,284 EUR (approximately: US$ 1,711) per couple.
The Hotel Bellevue in Vienna, Austria offers a special package for couples looking for a romantic city trip for their honeymoon. It includes three nights’ accommodation, in-room breakfast, red roses and a chocolate cake upon arrival, as well as a candlelight dinner for two. The couple will be able to explore the city during a complimentary sightseeing tour in a traditional Fiaker and pay a visit to famous Grinzing, as well as the restaurant Passauer Hof afterwards. What’s more, the newlyweds will experience a whole day of complimentary treatments in their own private spa suite at the Rennaissance castle, Weikersdorf. Prices start at 1,012 EUR (approximately: US$ 1,348) per couple.
With the deluxe package “Inspired at Madero “, the luxurious Hotel Madero in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is offering the utmost in romance and relaxation. It provides one night’s accommodation in a beautifully appointed Superior or Zen guestroom, a celebratory bottle of champagne and petit fours upon arrival, breakfast in-room and dinner for two at the hotel’s stylish ‘Red & Resto Lounge’ restaurant. What’s more, couples can also enjoy full use of the Madero Spa and Health Center, which comes equipped with an indoor pool and stunning river views. Prices start from 222 EUR (approximately: US$ 296) per couple.
Couples looking for a luxurious hideaway will find just that amidst lush tropical gardens at Indigo Pearl in Phuket, Thailand. The five-star resort, part of the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection is offering a “Lovers Escape” package. Newlyweds will enjoy two night’s accommodation, breakfast in bed, a bottle of champagne, a special honeymoon spa package for two, a four-course candlelight dinner, personalized bathrobes and a special gift set. The couple will also receive a 20 per cent discount on all food and beverages. Prices start at around 480 EUR (approximately: US$ 640) per couple.
Couples wishing to discover premier world-class attractions in Beijing can enjoy the extensive wellness and dining facilities at the Loong Palace Resort & Spa in north Beijing, China. The Honeymoon 2009 Package at the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection’s five-star hotel includes one night accommodation, in-room breakfast, a bottle of wine upon arrival, a 15 minute couples massage, complimentary use of the hotel’s wellness and fitness facilities and a special gift. Prices start at around 110 EUR (approximately: US$ 145).
The Grand Hotel Karel V in Utrecht, Netherlands has created the “I Do” package, a special offer for honeymooners. During a minimum stay of one night in one of the Empire Suites, newlyweds will enjoy in-room breakfast, a small bottle of champagne and a miniature wedding cake. In addition, a set of “Just Married” T-shirts and a luxury bath and shower gift set is provided for the couple. The Grand Hotel Karel V is part of the WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection and uniquely located in a former monastery in the historical centre of Utrecht. Prices start at 350 EUR (approximately: US$ 466) per couple.
Another WORLDHOTELS Deluxe Collection property, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort in Monte Carlo, Monaco, has introduced a stunning package for honeymooners. This special offer includes three nights accommodation, in-room breakfast, a romantic dinner for two at the Blue Bay restaurant and free access to the Casino de Monte-Carlo and the resort’s spa facilities. In addition, guests receive a 50 per cent discount at Monte-Carlo Golf Club and Monte-Carlo Country Club. The couple is also treated to champagne, chocolate and flowers upon arrival. The Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort is located directly by the waterfront and offers an in-house casino as well as a stunning saltwater lagoon. The three-night package is available from 1,284 EUR (approximately: US$ 1,711) per couple.
The Hotel Bellevue in Vienna, Austria offers a special package for couples looking for a romantic city trip for their honeymoon. It includes three nights’ accommodation, in-room breakfast, red roses and a chocolate cake upon arrival, as well as a candlelight dinner for two. The couple will be able to explore the city during a complimentary sightseeing tour in a traditional Fiaker and pay a visit to famous Grinzing, as well as the restaurant Passauer Hof afterwards. What’s more, the newlyweds will experience a whole day of complimentary treatments in their own private spa suite at the Rennaissance castle, Weikersdorf. Prices start at 1,012 EUR (approximately: US$ 1,348) per couple.
With the deluxe package “Inspired at Madero “, the luxurious Hotel Madero in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is offering the utmost in romance and relaxation. It provides one night’s accommodation in a beautifully appointed Superior or Zen guestroom, a celebratory bottle of champagne and petit fours upon arrival, breakfast in-room and dinner for two at the hotel’s stylish ‘Red & Resto Lounge’ restaurant. What’s more, couples can also enjoy full use of the Madero Spa and Health Center, which comes equipped with an indoor pool and stunning river views. Prices start from 222 EUR (approximately: US$ 296) per couple.
The Luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express Begins Its Summer Season
(Hong Kong, May 18, 2009) – Enjoy the timeless elegance of train travel as ultra luxurious train operator, Orient-Express celebrates the start of its summer season aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express (E&OE).
With no less than 28 journeys planned over the remainder of the year, the E&OE will leisurely meander between Singapore and Bangkok, passing through the heart of Asia thrilling passengers en route with its varied scenery and breathtaking landscapes.
Measuring a quarter of a mile in length, the air-conditioned gleaming green and cream carriages of the E&OE evoke the great age of luxury train travel and offer a world of opulence and fine craftsmanship. With comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious all-inclusive cuisine and superb service, the atmosphere onboard the E&OE harks back one hundred years to a 'Colonial' age of rattan chairs on the veranda, linen suits, and tea dances coupled with the adventure of a journey.
The following voyages and special offers are available for the remainder of 2009:
The Traditional Route
The traditional route of the E&OE runs from Singapore to Bangkok and takes 2 nights / 3 days, covering 1,262 miles (2,030 km). It has been running for over 10 years. The journey in the opposite direction, Bangkok to Singapore takes 3 nights / 4 days and includes a passing over the famous wooden trestle viaduct at Tham Kasae, one of Thailand’s most scenic stretches of railway. The rest of the itinerary follows the northbound routing in reverse.
On this spectacular journey, travel from Singapore to Bangkok, through the heart of South East Asia, with visits to colonial Georgetown, Fort Cornwallis and the infamous River Kwai en route.
Watch the countryside change from regimented rows of rubber trees and rolling hills to thick dense jungle, calming ponds brimming with water lilies and water buffalo grazing, to interesting Thai architecture and intricate templates.
Spend afternoons leisurely in your cabin enjoying afternoon tea, and glamorous evenings in the opulent dining carriages sampling fine wines and gourmet cuisine…
Singapore - Bangkok (3 days, 2 nights)
Departing on June 13, July 11, August 15, September 24, October 8, November 5, 12, 19 and December 20, 27, prices start from USD 2,210 for a Pullman Cabin. Book now for the June 13th voyage in a State or Pullman Cabin and enjoy a saving of 35% per couple by quoting EO35 at the time of booking.
Bangkok - Singapore (4 days, 3 nights)
Departing on May 17, June 16, July 14, August 18, October 4, 18, November 8, 15, 29 and December 23, 30, prices start from USD 2,210 for a Pullman Cabin.
For any bookings made on journeys between Singapore and Bangkok between April 16 – September 24, guests can enjoy a limited time only summer promotion incorporating complimentary hotel accommodation. Passengers will enjoy one free night in Singapore at the Mandarin Oriental or in Bangkok at The Oriental when booking a Pullman Superior cabin; two free nights at the same hotels or a combination of both when booking a State Cabin; and three free nights at the same hotels or a combination when booking a Presidential Suite.
The Alternative Thai Route
The E&OE offers an alternative travel route between Bangkok - Chiang Mai – Si Satchanalai – Lampang – Bangkok, giving guests the opportunity to catch glimpses of the ancient kingdom of Thailand.
On this glorious three night ‘Thai Explorer Journey’ the E&EO departs from Bangkok and chugs north to Chiang Mai enjoying visits to Si Satchanalai, part of the ancient Khmer empire, revered 13th century Bhuddist temples and Lampang en route, before returning to Bangkok.
The journey can also be split into a number of shorter sections for the convenience of guests and are devised to take in the highlights on life onboard: 1 night Bangkok to Chiang Mai or 2 nights Chiang Mai to Bangkok.
The Thai Explorer, Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Bangkok (4 days, 3 nights)
Departing on October 13 and November 24, prices start from USD 3,240 for a Pullman Cabin. Bookings include a one night complimentary stay at the Peninsula Hotel in Bangkok when booking a Pullman cabin, and two complimentary nights for those booking a State Cabin.
Bangkok - Chiang Mai (2 days, 1 night)
Departing on October 13, 27 and November 24, this picture perfect overnight journey onboard E&O takes in the sights of Thailand at a leisurely pace before arriving at Chiang Mai the following day. After enjoying breakfast in the comfort of their private cabin, guests can choose from any of three day trips in Chiang Mai including an elephant camp and ride, before returning to a sumptuous E&OE dinner feast fit for a king. Prices start from USD 1,400 for a Pullman Cabin.
Chiang Mai - Bangkok (3 days, 2 night)
Travel through the magnificent landscapes of Thailand at a leisurely pace on board the E&OE; visit the impressive Bhuddist temples in Si Satchanalai and enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride to Baan Sao Nok before returning to the train for your onward journey to the vibrant city of Bangkok. Departing October 14 and November 25, prices start from USD 1,600 for a Pullman Cabin.
Further information and full itineraries, can be seen at: http://www.orient-express.com/web/eoe/eoe_a2a_home.jsp
Bookings and all other enquiries: +65 6395 0678.
With no less than 28 journeys planned over the remainder of the year, the E&OE will leisurely meander between Singapore and Bangkok, passing through the heart of Asia thrilling passengers en route with its varied scenery and breathtaking landscapes.
Measuring a quarter of a mile in length, the air-conditioned gleaming green and cream carriages of the E&OE evoke the great age of luxury train travel and offer a world of opulence and fine craftsmanship. With comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious all-inclusive cuisine and superb service, the atmosphere onboard the E&OE harks back one hundred years to a 'Colonial' age of rattan chairs on the veranda, linen suits, and tea dances coupled with the adventure of a journey.
The following voyages and special offers are available for the remainder of 2009:
The Traditional Route
The traditional route of the E&OE runs from Singapore to Bangkok and takes 2 nights / 3 days, covering 1,262 miles (2,030 km). It has been running for over 10 years. The journey in the opposite direction, Bangkok to Singapore takes 3 nights / 4 days and includes a passing over the famous wooden trestle viaduct at Tham Kasae, one of Thailand’s most scenic stretches of railway. The rest of the itinerary follows the northbound routing in reverse.
On this spectacular journey, travel from Singapore to Bangkok, through the heart of South East Asia, with visits to colonial Georgetown, Fort Cornwallis and the infamous River Kwai en route.
Watch the countryside change from regimented rows of rubber trees and rolling hills to thick dense jungle, calming ponds brimming with water lilies and water buffalo grazing, to interesting Thai architecture and intricate templates.
Spend afternoons leisurely in your cabin enjoying afternoon tea, and glamorous evenings in the opulent dining carriages sampling fine wines and gourmet cuisine…
Singapore - Bangkok (3 days, 2 nights)
Departing on June 13, July 11, August 15, September 24, October 8, November 5, 12, 19 and December 20, 27, prices start from USD 2,210 for a Pullman Cabin. Book now for the June 13th voyage in a State or Pullman Cabin and enjoy a saving of 35% per couple by quoting EO35 at the time of booking.
Bangkok - Singapore (4 days, 3 nights)
Departing on May 17, June 16, July 14, August 18, October 4, 18, November 8, 15, 29 and December 23, 30, prices start from USD 2,210 for a Pullman Cabin.
For any bookings made on journeys between Singapore and Bangkok between April 16 – September 24, guests can enjoy a limited time only summer promotion incorporating complimentary hotel accommodation. Passengers will enjoy one free night in Singapore at the Mandarin Oriental or in Bangkok at The Oriental when booking a Pullman Superior cabin; two free nights at the same hotels or a combination of both when booking a State Cabin; and three free nights at the same hotels or a combination when booking a Presidential Suite.
The Alternative Thai Route
The E&OE offers an alternative travel route between Bangkok - Chiang Mai – Si Satchanalai – Lampang – Bangkok, giving guests the opportunity to catch glimpses of the ancient kingdom of Thailand.
On this glorious three night ‘Thai Explorer Journey’ the E&EO departs from Bangkok and chugs north to Chiang Mai enjoying visits to Si Satchanalai, part of the ancient Khmer empire, revered 13th century Bhuddist temples and Lampang en route, before returning to Bangkok.
The journey can also be split into a number of shorter sections for the convenience of guests and are devised to take in the highlights on life onboard: 1 night Bangkok to Chiang Mai or 2 nights Chiang Mai to Bangkok.
The Thai Explorer, Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Bangkok (4 days, 3 nights)
Departing on October 13 and November 24, prices start from USD 3,240 for a Pullman Cabin. Bookings include a one night complimentary stay at the Peninsula Hotel in Bangkok when booking a Pullman cabin, and two complimentary nights for those booking a State Cabin.
Bangkok - Chiang Mai (2 days, 1 night)
Departing on October 13, 27 and November 24, this picture perfect overnight journey onboard E&O takes in the sights of Thailand at a leisurely pace before arriving at Chiang Mai the following day. After enjoying breakfast in the comfort of their private cabin, guests can choose from any of three day trips in Chiang Mai including an elephant camp and ride, before returning to a sumptuous E&OE dinner feast fit for a king. Prices start from USD 1,400 for a Pullman Cabin.
Chiang Mai - Bangkok (3 days, 2 night)
Travel through the magnificent landscapes of Thailand at a leisurely pace on board the E&OE; visit the impressive Bhuddist temples in Si Satchanalai and enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride to Baan Sao Nok before returning to the train for your onward journey to the vibrant city of Bangkok. Departing October 14 and November 25, prices start from USD 1,600 for a Pullman Cabin.
Further information and full itineraries, can be seen at: http://www.orient-express.com/web/eoe/eoe_a2a_home.jsp
Bookings and all other enquiries: +65 6395 0678.
A team of three-Michelin-starred chefs & celebrity chefs takes Beijing by storm
Hong Kong, 16th May 2009 – Continuing the excitement of the successful grand opening celebration, the award-winning Hilton Beijing Wangfujing tempts you with the once-in-a-lifetime event featuring the stars of the culinary universe on June 8, 2009!
Hosted by Hilton’s own Executive Chef Yu Xiang Gu, the magical hands of five of the world’s most internationally acclaimed Michelin-starred culinary masters and celebrity chefs will create a dining experience nothing less than a highly celebrated gourmet gathering. From Italy to France, Germany to USA and all the way to Colombia, the renowned star chefs will take you by storm for one exclusive night only in Beijing!
On this magnificent evening of gastronomic extravaganza at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing’s glittering Lantern Ballroom, each chef will inventively create a single and unique mouthwatering ‘masterpiece’, from a six-course epicurean exclusivity, set to awaken even the most hidden of senses. A champagne reception will pop the night off to a grand start. To top it all off, Master of Wine Dr. Ron Georgiou and resident Sommelier Peter Teng has carefully chosen an exquisite selection of wines to complement the evening.
General Manager Nils-Arne Schroeder proudly remarked, “It started out as a small dream to gather three-Michelin-starred chefs to create a gourmet evening no one else has ever experienced before, and now we are so excited to bring this dream to reality. This ties in perfectly with the vision of the culinary teams at Hilton Hotels in Asia Pacific which constantly thrives to turn ordinary to extraordinary.”
The star-studded line-up of chefs who are coming to town to give gourmand a great food sensation experience is definitely one for the books:
Heinz Beck has won numerous accolades for his culinary abilities, he is arguably Italy’s most famous chef. Ironically, he was born in Germany and his restaurant, La Pergola, is housed in the Rome Cavalieri. Heinz, a three- Michelin-stars chef, specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and regularly creates new dishes to add to his already extensive menu. His inspiration is anything and everything – from museum paintings to Italy’s mountain ranges.
Heinz Winkler was the youngest ever chef to receive the three-Michelin-stars, when, in 1981, he was only 32 years old. He also was the first Italian chef to receive 3 Michelin stars and has now his own hotel and restaurant in the southern part of Germany.
Annie Féolde was the first woman in Italy to be awarded the three-Michelin-stars; she reigns both in Tuscany and Tokyo. Her biography reads like a fairy tale: a little girl who grew up along the Promenade des Anglais in the south of France, and then discovered Tuscany and made it her kingdom.
Jorge Rausch worked for three years with the well-known Chef Raymond Blanc in his eponymous restaurant Le Manoir Aux Quatre Saisons which has two- Michelin-stars and turns now his restaurant in Bogota, Colombia into the latest award-winning gourmet icon of South America.
A historic gastronomic adventure that no ‘Bon Vivant’ should miss! “An Intimate Dinner with the Stars” promises to be a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ culinary event at RMB 1,900 + 15% per person, cocktail reception starts at 6:30 pm at The Library. Only a limited number of seats are available! Reservations can be made through Tel +86 (0) 10 5812 8888 ext. 8402.
New 'INVITO' Introduces Lakeside Dining Italian-style to Beijing's Solana 'lifestyle centre'
(Beijing, May 18, 2009) – An exciting new waterfront Italian restaurant, café and lounge Invito is set to open at the edge of Chaoyang Park Lake in Beijing at the end of this month. Inspired by the Italian word for “invitation” it will greatly enhance the dining options now available at Solana - China’s first ‘lifestyle centre’.
Invito features a casual café with outdoor lakeside seating, a fine dining ristorante with waterfront terrace and a chic cocktail lounge bar.
Seating 220 indoors and 50 on the lakeside terrace, Invito is scheduled to open on June 1, 2009 at the ‘east-meets-west’ destination mall surrounded by trendy residential areas and embassies, close to Beijing’s central business district.
Invito’s chefs will prepare authentic contemporary Italian cuisine with the focus on fresh, light and aromatic cooking. A much loved Italian delicacy black and white truffles will be the highlight of a menu which will constantly evolve to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.
A network of local farmers and purveyors has been specially selected to ensure a regular supply of the finest natural ingredients to Invito’s kitchen.
The venue also boasts an extensive wine list featuring over 280 labels hand-picked from five continents, including vintage wines served by the glass.
Located on the upper floor Invito Fine Dining Ristorante is styled after a warm and cozy Italian villa, featuring an elegant décor and lovely views of Chaoyang Park Lake. Custom designed Tuscan doors open on to a charming outdoor terrace for al fresco dining during the warmer months.
The menu includes daily ‘specials’, 3-course set business lunch priced at RMB 168, plus a choice of 4-course gourmet dinners, priced from RMB 388-988.
Invito Café on the ground floor is a “casual and stylish” venue for a quick bite, short break from shopping, or glass of wine, serving a light menu of Italian paninis, pizzas, salads and pasta dishes. A daily ‘aperitivo hour’ from 5 to 8 pm will feature an open buffet plus one cocktail at RMB 88, served outdoors beside the lake in summer from May to September.
Serving signature cocktails, Invito Lounge is a sophisticated and chic venue, where soft, intimate lighting and a rich colour scheme create an inviting ambience for evening cocktails and elegant company. The lounge will feature live music at the weekends, including Italian opera performances, and will be available for private dinners, parties and events.
Invito’s executive chef is Innocenti Federico, who draws his inspiration from the best culinary traditions across Italy, creating dishes with a contemporary twist that complement the great range of wines on offer.
Recruited from ‘Cecco’ restaurant in Pescia, Italy, Federico trained at a number of renowned restaurants in Italy, and was formerly sous chef at ‘Senso’ Italian restaurant in Singapore.
Leading the Invito team is Director of Operations Lorenzo Maraviglia, formerly F&B manager at The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, in charge of award-winning Italian restaurant ‘Cepe’. He was also instrumental in Invito's overall design concept.
A native of Tuscany, Maraviglia graduated with honors from Hotel & Restaurant Management of CUNY of New York, in New York City.
Commenting on his new role in Beijing, he says, “The opportunity to come to Beijing during this period of such dynamic development has been a unique challenge for me. This is a vibrant and exciting city and on the brink of becoming one of the world’s foremost epicurean destinations, and I feel privileged to be a part of it all.”
His objective for Invito is to position the restaurant as one of the finest and most exciting Italian dining concepts in Beijing. “Our goal is to continually surpass guest expectations on every visit, Invito will be distinguished by its friendly, personalized service”, he added.
Invito is operated by the Beverly Group, an international trading company based in Beijing planning to open Invito concept restaurants, cafes and bars throughout China.
Address: Solana Shopping Center
15-2, 15-3 Solana, 6 Chaoyang Park Road Chaoyang District, 100026
Beijing, PRC
Opening hours: Invito Café: 11am – 11pm
Invito Main Restaurant: Lunch 11.30am –2.30pm (last order),
Dinner 6–10.30pm (last order)
For reservations: please call +86 10 59056906 or email ristorante@invitochina.com
Visit the website at www.invitochina.com
Invito features a casual café with outdoor lakeside seating, a fine dining ristorante with waterfront terrace and a chic cocktail lounge bar.
Seating 220 indoors and 50 on the lakeside terrace, Invito is scheduled to open on June 1, 2009 at the ‘east-meets-west’ destination mall surrounded by trendy residential areas and embassies, close to Beijing’s central business district.
Invito’s chefs will prepare authentic contemporary Italian cuisine with the focus on fresh, light and aromatic cooking. A much loved Italian delicacy black and white truffles will be the highlight of a menu which will constantly evolve to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.
A network of local farmers and purveyors has been specially selected to ensure a regular supply of the finest natural ingredients to Invito’s kitchen.
The venue also boasts an extensive wine list featuring over 280 labels hand-picked from five continents, including vintage wines served by the glass.
Located on the upper floor Invito Fine Dining Ristorante is styled after a warm and cozy Italian villa, featuring an elegant décor and lovely views of Chaoyang Park Lake. Custom designed Tuscan doors open on to a charming outdoor terrace for al fresco dining during the warmer months.
The menu includes daily ‘specials’, 3-course set business lunch priced at RMB 168, plus a choice of 4-course gourmet dinners, priced from RMB 388-988.
Invito Café on the ground floor is a “casual and stylish” venue for a quick bite, short break from shopping, or glass of wine, serving a light menu of Italian paninis, pizzas, salads and pasta dishes. A daily ‘aperitivo hour’ from 5 to 8 pm will feature an open buffet plus one cocktail at RMB 88, served outdoors beside the lake in summer from May to September.
Serving signature cocktails, Invito Lounge is a sophisticated and chic venue, where soft, intimate lighting and a rich colour scheme create an inviting ambience for evening cocktails and elegant company. The lounge will feature live music at the weekends, including Italian opera performances, and will be available for private dinners, parties and events.
Invito’s executive chef is Innocenti Federico, who draws his inspiration from the best culinary traditions across Italy, creating dishes with a contemporary twist that complement the great range of wines on offer.
Recruited from ‘Cecco’ restaurant in Pescia, Italy, Federico trained at a number of renowned restaurants in Italy, and was formerly sous chef at ‘Senso’ Italian restaurant in Singapore.
Leading the Invito team is Director of Operations Lorenzo Maraviglia, formerly F&B manager at The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, in charge of award-winning Italian restaurant ‘Cepe’. He was also instrumental in Invito's overall design concept.
A native of Tuscany, Maraviglia graduated with honors from Hotel & Restaurant Management of CUNY of New York, in New York City.
Commenting on his new role in Beijing, he says, “The opportunity to come to Beijing during this period of such dynamic development has been a unique challenge for me. This is a vibrant and exciting city and on the brink of becoming one of the world’s foremost epicurean destinations, and I feel privileged to be a part of it all.”
His objective for Invito is to position the restaurant as one of the finest and most exciting Italian dining concepts in Beijing. “Our goal is to continually surpass guest expectations on every visit, Invito will be distinguished by its friendly, personalized service”, he added.
Invito is operated by the Beverly Group, an international trading company based in Beijing planning to open Invito concept restaurants, cafes and bars throughout China.
Address: Solana Shopping Center
15-2, 15-3 Solana, 6 Chaoyang Park Road Chaoyang District, 100026
Beijing, PRC
Opening hours: Invito Café: 11am – 11pm
Invito Main Restaurant: Lunch 11.30am –2.30pm (last order),
Dinner 6–10.30pm (last order)
For reservations: please call +86 10 59056906 or email ristorante@invitochina.com
Visit the website at www.invitochina.com
Friday, May 15, 2009
Two-Michelin Starred Chef Helene Darroze Unveils French Gourmet Brunch at The Connaught, London
(London, May 14 2009) – With the transformation of London’s prestigious Mount Street into one of the world’s most avant-garde retail destinations, no Saturday morning visit to the recently opened Lanvin flagship store or the city’s first Marc by Marc Jacobs is complete without a visit to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught. Showcasing only the freshest ingredients and produce from her native Landes in South West France, coupled with some of the finest ingredients from the British Isles, Darroze reinvents traditional weekend brunch at her eponymous restaurant. A true gourmet treat, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught is the perfect conclusion of a chic Mayfair morning and the must-visit destination for a fashionable weekend get-together in London.
Firstly, guests are treated to a variety of flavourful cured meats and country-style pâtés including Bayonne Ham and chorizo which are all sourced from Pierre Oteiza, one of Darroze’s favourite Basque delicatessen shops. Simultaneously, truffled Italian mortadella is sliced à la minute on an antique Berkel meat slicer and Scottish smoked salmon is freshly carved and served with delicious organic scrambled eggs. Darroze sourced the finest seasonal cheeses from Bernard Antony’s famous cheese cellar in Alsace and offers a wide selection of home-baked breads and freshly churned butter from Normandy. For the main course, guests are invited to choose from a number of signature Hélène Darroze dishes such as “black and creamy Acquarello rice with squid, chorizo, confit tomatoes and a Reggiano parmesan foam” and “a home-made burger of braised Aberdeen Angus beef and roasted foie gras from Les Landes”. Brunch is not complete without an order of warm waffles which are prepared table-side on an antique French waffle iron as well as exquisite, freshly made, French pastries from Head Pastry Chef Johannes Bonin. Brunch is served at £29 per head.
The restaurant recently unveiled two Damien Hirst ‘Buttlerfly Paintings’ which were specifically commissioned by The Connaught, complementing the India Mahdavi designed decor. Paris-based Mahdavi chose femine tones, including crème, gold and lilac, to establish a softness to the contrasting Mahogany which is part of the original 1897 restaurant design. While guests enjoy a café au lait from Hermes fine-bone china, large windows present a view of tranquil Carlos Place where life moves by, a little slower than normal.
A 4th generation descendant of a long line of chefs, Hélène Darroze began her official culinary career in 1990 when she worked as the right hand woman to Alain Ducasse at the Louis XV in Monaco. She then opened her eponymous restaurant in Paris in 1999. In 2000, she won her first Michelin star, achieving her second in 2003 making her the second highest rated female chef in France. She opened ‘Hélène Darroze at The Connaught’ on 14th July 2008 and was recently awarded her first Michelin star.
Commenting on brunch at her eponymous restaurant, Hélène Darroze said: “I fondly recall many long weekend brunches that I enjoy preparing for my friends in France and Britain. Sunny mornings in early spring, the smell of freshly baked breads and the perfect company of family and friends all on one table make brunch the most cherished moment of my weekend.”
A family outing to London offers an abundance of activities to share together, from long brunches to museum and gallery visits, boating or riding in the park, river trips, theatres, shopping and concerts. To guarantee the weekend is enjoyed by the whole family, The Connaught offers two rooms for the price of one when booking the Family Heaven package valid until 31st December 2009. Starting from just £575 per night for two double rooms the package includes a welcome bottle of Champagne for the grown-ups, delicious smoothies and mouth-watering home-made cookies for the junior guests, a selection of game consoles for use during the weekend and traditional English breakfast giving the perfect start to everyone’s day
The Connaught, part of the Maybourne Hotel Group, has recently invested in a £70 million restoration and renovation programme which includes a magnificent redesign of the guest rooms, suites and interiors using some of the world finest designers and craftsmen. The legendary hotel has been brought into the 21st Century while preserving with great care its authentic elegance, distinctive personality and intuitive style of service.
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, Carlos Place, London W1K 2AL - 0207 499 7070
Reservation number: 020 3147 7200 www.the-connaught.co.uk
Firstly, guests are treated to a variety of flavourful cured meats and country-style pâtés including Bayonne Ham and chorizo which are all sourced from Pierre Oteiza, one of Darroze’s favourite Basque delicatessen shops. Simultaneously, truffled Italian mortadella is sliced à la minute on an antique Berkel meat slicer and Scottish smoked salmon is freshly carved and served with delicious organic scrambled eggs. Darroze sourced the finest seasonal cheeses from Bernard Antony’s famous cheese cellar in Alsace and offers a wide selection of home-baked breads and freshly churned butter from Normandy. For the main course, guests are invited to choose from a number of signature Hélène Darroze dishes such as “black and creamy Acquarello rice with squid, chorizo, confit tomatoes and a Reggiano parmesan foam” and “a home-made burger of braised Aberdeen Angus beef and roasted foie gras from Les Landes”. Brunch is not complete without an order of warm waffles which are prepared table-side on an antique French waffle iron as well as exquisite, freshly made, French pastries from Head Pastry Chef Johannes Bonin. Brunch is served at £29 per head.
The restaurant recently unveiled two Damien Hirst ‘Buttlerfly Paintings’ which were specifically commissioned by The Connaught, complementing the India Mahdavi designed decor. Paris-based Mahdavi chose femine tones, including crème, gold and lilac, to establish a softness to the contrasting Mahogany which is part of the original 1897 restaurant design. While guests enjoy a café au lait from Hermes fine-bone china, large windows present a view of tranquil Carlos Place where life moves by, a little slower than normal.
A 4th generation descendant of a long line of chefs, Hélène Darroze began her official culinary career in 1990 when she worked as the right hand woman to Alain Ducasse at the Louis XV in Monaco. She then opened her eponymous restaurant in Paris in 1999. In 2000, she won her first Michelin star, achieving her second in 2003 making her the second highest rated female chef in France. She opened ‘Hélène Darroze at The Connaught’ on 14th July 2008 and was recently awarded her first Michelin star.
Commenting on brunch at her eponymous restaurant, Hélène Darroze said: “I fondly recall many long weekend brunches that I enjoy preparing for my friends in France and Britain. Sunny mornings in early spring, the smell of freshly baked breads and the perfect company of family and friends all on one table make brunch the most cherished moment of my weekend.”
A family outing to London offers an abundance of activities to share together, from long brunches to museum and gallery visits, boating or riding in the park, river trips, theatres, shopping and concerts. To guarantee the weekend is enjoyed by the whole family, The Connaught offers two rooms for the price of one when booking the Family Heaven package valid until 31st December 2009. Starting from just £575 per night for two double rooms the package includes a welcome bottle of Champagne for the grown-ups, delicious smoothies and mouth-watering home-made cookies for the junior guests, a selection of game consoles for use during the weekend and traditional English breakfast giving the perfect start to everyone’s day
The Connaught, part of the Maybourne Hotel Group, has recently invested in a £70 million restoration and renovation programme which includes a magnificent redesign of the guest rooms, suites and interiors using some of the world finest designers and craftsmen. The legendary hotel has been brought into the 21st Century while preserving with great care its authentic elegance, distinctive personality and intuitive style of service.
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, Carlos Place, London W1K 2AL - 0207 499 7070
Reservation number: 020 3147 7200 www.the-connaught.co.uk
ROKA to Open Second London Restaurant
(Hong Kong, 14 May, 2009) – ROKA is bringing its unique style of contemporary Japanese cuisine to the heart of Canary Wharf this autumn.
The newest outpost to the ROKA family follows the successful openings of ROKA Hong Kong and Scottsdale. Rainer Becker co-founder of Zuma / ROKA comments: “It’s been an exceptional time for Zuma, ROKA and Shochu Lounge as the company has experienced quite astounding success internationally. From a personal point of view, I am particularly looking forward to opening a further ROKA in London as I very much consider the city my home. I have been looking for a suitable site for a long time. Canary Wharf offers a unique urban environment with its own energy and is a great contrast to our West End location. I’m looking forward to bringing ROKA to a whole new audience”.
ROKA Canary Wharf will accommodate up to 140 guests comprising the main restaurant, the Shochu Lounge and an external seated balcony, overlooking Canada Square.
The cuisine at ROKA is based around the heat and energy of the Robata grill, which offers an array of dishes, full of exciting flavours and textures, for customers to enjoy. In addition, the menu will also feature dishes from the main kitchen and a selection of sushi and sashimi.
Head chef Yoshi Muranaka has worked under the guidance of Group Executive Chef for ROKA, Nic Watt for the last 5 years. Nic says of the new ROKA “We are incorporating a new dynamic into this ROKA project. It will be the first ROKA to include a ‘Robata Chef’s table’, where guests can literally be seated within the energy and action of the open charcoal robata kitchen.’
Noriyoshi Muramatsu, renowned designer of Studio Glitt in Japan is responsible for the restaurant and bar design. Muramatsu has created all the Zuma and ROKA interiors globally and views each location as an opportunity to build upon, and indeed, exceed his previous achievements. His design concept is currently underway and will bring his unique sensory approach to the Canary Wharf location.
The newest outpost to the ROKA family follows the successful openings of ROKA Hong Kong and Scottsdale. Rainer Becker co-founder of Zuma / ROKA comments: “It’s been an exceptional time for Zuma, ROKA and Shochu Lounge as the company has experienced quite astounding success internationally. From a personal point of view, I am particularly looking forward to opening a further ROKA in London as I very much consider the city my home. I have been looking for a suitable site for a long time. Canary Wharf offers a unique urban environment with its own energy and is a great contrast to our West End location. I’m looking forward to bringing ROKA to a whole new audience”.
ROKA Canary Wharf will accommodate up to 140 guests comprising the main restaurant, the Shochu Lounge and an external seated balcony, overlooking Canada Square.
The cuisine at ROKA is based around the heat and energy of the Robata grill, which offers an array of dishes, full of exciting flavours and textures, for customers to enjoy. In addition, the menu will also feature dishes from the main kitchen and a selection of sushi and sashimi.
Head chef Yoshi Muranaka has worked under the guidance of Group Executive Chef for ROKA, Nic Watt for the last 5 years. Nic says of the new ROKA “We are incorporating a new dynamic into this ROKA project. It will be the first ROKA to include a ‘Robata Chef’s table’, where guests can literally be seated within the energy and action of the open charcoal robata kitchen.’
Noriyoshi Muramatsu, renowned designer of Studio Glitt in Japan is responsible for the restaurant and bar design. Muramatsu has created all the Zuma and ROKA interiors globally and views each location as an opportunity to build upon, and indeed, exceed his previous achievements. His design concept is currently underway and will bring his unique sensory approach to the Canary Wharf location.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Swire Hotels Announces Its Second Hong Kong Hotel
(Hong Kong, May 13, 2009) – Swire Hotels is set to unveil its second Hong Kong hotel and its third property worldwide in January 2010 with the opening of a lifestyle business hotel, EAST.
EAST is located at Island East, incorporating a new landmark development by Swire, One Island East, in Quarry Bay. The location at one of the most attractive out-of-Central business addresses in Hong Kong, a new home to over 300 multinationals including some of the most prestigious Fortune 500 corporations, makes it ideal for business travellers.
EAST is created for business travellers looking for a relaxed, convenient and contemporary environment. It features services such as a paperless front-desk which enables guests to check-in only on their first visit, with express check-in and pre-registration prior to arrival all that is necessary thereafter.
The hotel’s 345 rooms and suites, featuring harbour or urban views, offer the latest in iHome / iTouch technology and complimentary WiFi broadband internet connection is offered throughout the hotel.
Dining is highlighted by all-day restaurant EAST Café and a chic harbour view rooftop bar and deck.
Recreational facilities at EAST include a 24-hour gym, an outdoor swimming pool and a Juice bar.
The hotel is also conveniently close to Tai Koo MTR station and is a short drive away from Central and Causeway Bay.
Swire Hotels launched its first property, The Opposite House, in Beijing, in 2008. A second, The Upper House, opens at Pacific Place in Admiralty on Hong Kong Island in October 2009.
“Our hotel aims to create different and surprising experiences that complement the lives of our guests and enhance their lifestyle. EAST is designed to meet the needs of business travellers at Island East,” said Brian Williams, Managing Director of Swire Hotels.
About Swire Hotels
Swire Hotels has been created to manage intriguing urban hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the United Kingdom, providing a luxury experience for travellers who seek individuality, style and personalised service.
The Opposite House, Beijing, opened in 2008 and will be followed by the opening of The Upper House, a 117-room luxury hotel in Pacific Place, Hong Kong, in the autumn of 2009 and in future a 90-room hotel at TaiKoo Hui in Guangzhou. Swire Hotels will open a 345-room lifestyle business hotel called EAST in TaiKoo Shing, Hong Kong, in 2010.
In the United Kingdom, Swire Hotels is developing a collection of stylish boutique hotels in interesting English towns and cities to be launched in 2010.
About Swire Island East
Swire Island East is one of Hong Kong’s best planned and established business districts which comprise the retail and office centres of Cityplaza and TaiKoo Place, developed and managed by Swire Properties. Following the completion of One Island East, the Island East portfolio offers eight million square feet of commercial accommodation for local and multinational corporations. A comprehensive range of cosmopolitan business and leisure amenities are situated within the area, including the 1.1 million square feet Cityplaza shopping centre, the Butterfield’s private members club, over 60 restaurants and cafes and some 4,000 public parking spaces.
Swire Island East has been a long-time patron of art and culture and a diversified range of visual and performing art events are held year-round in the past decade. To raise the bar and be able to bring world-class art events to Hong Kong, a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose venue ArtisTree was launched in November 2008. Located at Cornwall House, TaiKoo Place, the inaugural event for ArtisTree was the Vivienne Westwood A Life in Fashion exhibition, a collaboration with London’s Victoria & Albert Museum.
ArtisTree is a pun for the original word “Artistry” which means “artistic workmanship, effect or quality, artistic ability”. Like a tree, this new venue symbolizes a nurturing ground where art grows. It is intended to be a cultural resource for Hong Kong. From where, through the presentation of outstanding events from the visual and performing arts world, inspire the learning, appreciation, creation and growth of art in the wider HK community.
EAST is located at Island East, incorporating a new landmark development by Swire, One Island East, in Quarry Bay. The location at one of the most attractive out-of-Central business addresses in Hong Kong, a new home to over 300 multinationals including some of the most prestigious Fortune 500 corporations, makes it ideal for business travellers.
EAST is created for business travellers looking for a relaxed, convenient and contemporary environment. It features services such as a paperless front-desk which enables guests to check-in only on their first visit, with express check-in and pre-registration prior to arrival all that is necessary thereafter.
The hotel’s 345 rooms and suites, featuring harbour or urban views, offer the latest in iHome / iTouch technology and complimentary WiFi broadband internet connection is offered throughout the hotel.
Dining is highlighted by all-day restaurant EAST Café and a chic harbour view rooftop bar and deck.
Recreational facilities at EAST include a 24-hour gym, an outdoor swimming pool and a Juice bar.
The hotel is also conveniently close to Tai Koo MTR station and is a short drive away from Central and Causeway Bay.
Swire Hotels launched its first property, The Opposite House, in Beijing, in 2008. A second, The Upper House, opens at Pacific Place in Admiralty on Hong Kong Island in October 2009.
“Our hotel aims to create different and surprising experiences that complement the lives of our guests and enhance their lifestyle. EAST is designed to meet the needs of business travellers at Island East,” said Brian Williams, Managing Director of Swire Hotels.
About Swire Hotels
Swire Hotels has been created to manage intriguing urban hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the United Kingdom, providing a luxury experience for travellers who seek individuality, style and personalised service.
The Opposite House, Beijing, opened in 2008 and will be followed by the opening of The Upper House, a 117-room luxury hotel in Pacific Place, Hong Kong, in the autumn of 2009 and in future a 90-room hotel at TaiKoo Hui in Guangzhou. Swire Hotels will open a 345-room lifestyle business hotel called EAST in TaiKoo Shing, Hong Kong, in 2010.
In the United Kingdom, Swire Hotels is developing a collection of stylish boutique hotels in interesting English towns and cities to be launched in 2010.
About Swire Island East
Swire Island East is one of Hong Kong’s best planned and established business districts which comprise the retail and office centres of Cityplaza and TaiKoo Place, developed and managed by Swire Properties. Following the completion of One Island East, the Island East portfolio offers eight million square feet of commercial accommodation for local and multinational corporations. A comprehensive range of cosmopolitan business and leisure amenities are situated within the area, including the 1.1 million square feet Cityplaza shopping centre, the Butterfield’s private members club, over 60 restaurants and cafes and some 4,000 public parking spaces.
Swire Island East has been a long-time patron of art and culture and a diversified range of visual and performing art events are held year-round in the past decade. To raise the bar and be able to bring world-class art events to Hong Kong, a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose venue ArtisTree was launched in November 2008. Located at Cornwall House, TaiKoo Place, the inaugural event for ArtisTree was the Vivienne Westwood A Life in Fashion exhibition, a collaboration with London’s Victoria & Albert Museum.
ArtisTree is a pun for the original word “Artistry” which means “artistic workmanship, effect or quality, artistic ability”. Like a tree, this new venue symbolizes a nurturing ground where art grows. It is intended to be a cultural resource for Hong Kong. From where, through the presentation of outstanding events from the visual and performing arts world, inspire the learning, appreciation, creation and growth of art in the wider HK community.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Sofitel Luxury Hotels Signs Guangzhou Property with Guangdong Sunrich Group
Guangzhou, 12th May 2009 – The Sofitel Luxury Hotels announces today the signing of the management contract for the Guangdong Sunrich Group’s latest hotel property, the Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich, located at the heart of Guangzhou’s Tianhe CBD. The signing ceremony was held on May 8, 2009 to close the much anticipated venture for the renowned luxury hospitality brand under the Accor Group.
Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich is located at an unrivalled position in Tianhe CBD area, the most developed financial and commercial district of Guangzhou, facilitating access to much of the city’s dynamic environment such as shopping centres, city landmarks and grade A office buildings holding headquarters of countless international enterprises. Guests will find the hotel easily accessible as it is in walking distance from the main metro lines and a short drive away from Guangzhou East Railway Station connecting Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. .
Together with the guestrooms, meeting rooms, business center and spa & fitness facilities, this property will also host a wide range of dining and cocktail venues which will serve to its locale as the destination for fine dining, business meetings and leisure outings. The Sofitel Luxury Hotels wishes to incorporate the state-of-the-art facilities and venue capabilities with the unique French flair and generous hospitality it is most known for.
Since its establishment in 1993, the Guangdong Sunrich Group had first seen its main business come from real estate, hotel investment and oil product sales but over the years, has diversified its scope to cover such industries as petroleum and gas, insurance, import & export, property management and most notably, as a sole supplier for mechanical tubing projects in China. The conglomerate is now present in a number of regions in China including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Jinan and Shenzhen.
Present at the signing was Vice President of Sofitel Greater China, Mr. Michel Molliet, “We are delighted to partner with Guangdong Sunrich Group on such an important hotel project, with whom we hope to build a strong relationship in the years to come and work together to build a landmark Sofitel property.”
The Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich is expected to open at the end of 2010.
Sofitel, World Class Hotels & French Elegance
Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents, in more than 50 countries. Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts adapted to today’s more demanding and more versatile consumers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, New York or Bangkok, or nestled away in a country landscape in French Polynesia or Brazil, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French art de vivre.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Make it a Pa-Fect Day for No. 1 Dads! Indulge in Unlimited beers at Bubba Gump on Father's Day
(Hong Kong, May 11, 2009) --- Bubba Gump, the family friendly restaurant on the peak with stunning views from day to night, is offering an all-day special set menu for families to share on the coming Father’s Day, 21 June, 09. To make the set menu even more special, daddies will be able to enjoy unlimited beers while sharing the sumptuous selection of famous dishes with friends and family.
For the price of HK$868, customers can enjoy two appetizers and any three main dishes from a special set menu, followed by a sinful dessert platter to share at the end of the meal.
After diving into a starter of Classic Caesar Salad and Onion Rings, next up is a selection of main course delights!
For entrees there will be a choice of four Bubba Gump main dishes. It includes New York Steak, served with Mashed Potatoes, a crispy Onion Ring and juicy sliced Tomato, Baby Back Ribs served with French Fries, Frankie Baked Seafood and Rice or Shrimper’s Heaven; Coconut Shrimp, Chilly Shrimp, Fried Shrimp and Tempura Shrimp. Customers can choose their three own favorites.
A Dessert Platter including chocolate chip cookie sundae, buttered cake with ice cream & fresh strawberries and key lime pie is the perfect way to end a delicious dinner and leave dad with sweet memories.
The set menu will be served only on Father’s Day 21 June, 09. Advanced booking is highly recommended.
An addition of 10% service charge applies.
About Bubba Gump
Bubba Gump is a firm favorite with children and adults alike at over 30 locations worldwide, including Hong Kong’s Peak Tower.
The kids’ menu at Bubba Gump features all their favorites, from burgers and fish & chips to chicken strips, fried shrimp, hot dogs and linguini with meat sauce.
Adults can enjoy a range of the restaurant’s signature seafood, from Run Across American Sampler, Net Catch or Cajun Shrimp. Salads, Ribs, Steaks and classic Desserts are also on the menu at this first and only casual restaurant chain based on a motion picture.
A popular fun photo for kids at The Peak is trying on plaster casts of Forrest’s running shoes at his famed bus bench outside the restaurant.
The theme restaurant also showcases memorabilia and photos from Forrest Gump along with reproductions of script pages, storyboards and costumes.
Merchandise ranges from ‘Run Forrest Run’ t-shirts and hats to fun gifts for children.
For reservations please call 2849 2867. For more information, you can contact Sally Cheung on 9611 1145 or 2849 6650.
For the price of HK$868, customers can enjoy two appetizers and any three main dishes from a special set menu, followed by a sinful dessert platter to share at the end of the meal.
After diving into a starter of Classic Caesar Salad and Onion Rings, next up is a selection of main course delights!
For entrees there will be a choice of four Bubba Gump main dishes. It includes New York Steak, served with Mashed Potatoes, a crispy Onion Ring and juicy sliced Tomato, Baby Back Ribs served with French Fries, Frankie Baked Seafood and Rice or Shrimper’s Heaven; Coconut Shrimp, Chilly Shrimp, Fried Shrimp and Tempura Shrimp. Customers can choose their three own favorites.
A Dessert Platter including chocolate chip cookie sundae, buttered cake with ice cream & fresh strawberries and key lime pie is the perfect way to end a delicious dinner and leave dad with sweet memories.
The set menu will be served only on Father’s Day 21 June, 09. Advanced booking is highly recommended.
An addition of 10% service charge applies.
About Bubba Gump
Bubba Gump is a firm favorite with children and adults alike at over 30 locations worldwide, including Hong Kong’s Peak Tower.
The kids’ menu at Bubba Gump features all their favorites, from burgers and fish & chips to chicken strips, fried shrimp, hot dogs and linguini with meat sauce.
Adults can enjoy a range of the restaurant’s signature seafood, from Run Across American Sampler, Net Catch or Cajun Shrimp. Salads, Ribs, Steaks and classic Desserts are also on the menu at this first and only casual restaurant chain based on a motion picture.
A popular fun photo for kids at The Peak is trying on plaster casts of Forrest’s running shoes at his famed bus bench outside the restaurant.
The theme restaurant also showcases memorabilia and photos from Forrest Gump along with reproductions of script pages, storyboards and costumes.
Merchandise ranges from ‘Run Forrest Run’ t-shirts and hats to fun gifts for children.
For reservations please call 2849 2867. For more information, you can contact Sally Cheung on 9611 1145 or 2849 6650.
Explore Kerala's Scenic Waterways & Wonders with Relais & Châteaux Colonial Bungalow The Malabar House
(Hong Kong, May 11, 2009) – The scenic and cultural wonders of India's southern state of Kerala, named one of the "ten paradises of the world" and "50 places of a lifetime" by National Geographic Traveler magazine, can be explored with new special offers from the Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel, The Malabar House.
In the historical heart of Fort Cochin, the charming 17-room converted colonial bungalow is presenting unique 6 day-5 night packages that include two nights exploring Kerala’s world famous backwaters on the hotel’s own luxury houseboat.
Summer prices until September 30 are €1,100 for two, rising to €1,700 from October 1 to April 30, 2010.
Also included is a tasting of Indian wines and dinner at The Malabar Junction restaurant, which blends Mediterranean cuisine with traditional Indian spices, along with half-day sightseeing in Cochin, tickets to the region's traditional Kathakali dance spectacle, airport transfers and guides.
Aboard the houseboat discovery cruise, guests explore the vast inland waterways of Kerala including Lake Vembanad and the town of Alleppey, the famed Ambalapuzha temple and an historic ancestral house and farm at Pulinkunnu.
The lake is a major ecological resource which has conditioned the flora, fauna and lifestyles of the people who live on its banks. The houseboat cruise through the narrow canals gives visitors a close encounter with local village life.
Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, renowned for its ecotourism initiatives, unique culture and traditions.
Cochin is the spice capital of the world, known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. India’s oldest Indo–European town is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of Vembanad Lake, the maritime link between the sea and the fabled backwaters of Kerala.
The Malabar House is the only Relais & Châteaux property in Kerala, and one of the most unique in the global collection of the world’s finest luxury and independent small properties and gourmet restaurants.
For reservations: www.relaischateaux.com/malabar
ABOUT RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 56 countries.
Established in France in 1954, the Association’s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding small properties with a truly unique character.
Furthermore, Relais & Châteaux is also a family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world who share a passion for and a personal commitment to ensuring their guests are privy to moments of exceptional harmony. To choose Relais & Châteaux is to experience an unforgettable celebration of the senses.
From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers a chance to explore the Route du Bonheur and discover a special place in a variety of destinations.
The Relais & Châteaux signature reflects this ambition:
“ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.“
Website: www.relaischateaux.com
In the historical heart of Fort Cochin, the charming 17-room converted colonial bungalow is presenting unique 6 day-5 night packages that include two nights exploring Kerala’s world famous backwaters on the hotel’s own luxury houseboat.
Summer prices until September 30 are €1,100 for two, rising to €1,700 from October 1 to April 30, 2010.
Also included is a tasting of Indian wines and dinner at The Malabar Junction restaurant, which blends Mediterranean cuisine with traditional Indian spices, along with half-day sightseeing in Cochin, tickets to the region's traditional Kathakali dance spectacle, airport transfers and guides.
Aboard the houseboat discovery cruise, guests explore the vast inland waterways of Kerala including Lake Vembanad and the town of Alleppey, the famed Ambalapuzha temple and an historic ancestral house and farm at Pulinkunnu.
The lake is a major ecological resource which has conditioned the flora, fauna and lifestyles of the people who live on its banks. The houseboat cruise through the narrow canals gives visitors a close encounter with local village life.
Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, renowned for its ecotourism initiatives, unique culture and traditions.
Cochin is the spice capital of the world, known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. India’s oldest Indo–European town is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of Vembanad Lake, the maritime link between the sea and the fabled backwaters of Kerala.
The Malabar House is the only Relais & Châteaux property in Kerala, and one of the most unique in the global collection of the world’s finest luxury and independent small properties and gourmet restaurants.
For reservations: www.relaischateaux.com/malabar
ABOUT RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 480 of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 56 countries.
Established in France in 1954, the Association’s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding small properties with a truly unique character.
Furthermore, Relais & Châteaux is also a family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world who share a passion for and a personal commitment to ensuring their guests are privy to moments of exceptional harmony. To choose Relais & Châteaux is to experience an unforgettable celebration of the senses.
From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers a chance to explore the Route du Bonheur and discover a special place in a variety of destinations.
The Relais & Châteaux signature reflects this ambition:
“ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.“
Website: www.relaischateaux.com
Bangkok's Central Chidlom Sets World-Class Customer Service Benchmarks
(Bangkok, May 11, 2009) – Bangkok's premier department store Central Chidlom is taking customer service to a new world-class level with Thailand's most exclusive services.
Central Chidlom is the flagship of Thailand and Southeast Asia’s leading department store chain, Central Retail Corporation, with 68,000 square meters of world-class shopping, renowned for leading local and international brand-name merchandise, plus innovative eateries.
Value-added services at the heart of Bangkok’s premier shopping avenue are set to take the shopping experience to new heights with services ranging from translators in four languages to deliveries, as well as gift registries for all occasions and more…
Translators – For English, Chinese, Japanese and Arabic Visitors to Thailand.
Delivery Services – Both local and international shoppers can enjoy the privilege of hotel and home deliveries and shipping services.
Money Services – Currency exchange, Western Union money transfers as well as traveler’s cheques exchange.
Door to Door Transportation – Shuttle and limousine services for an easy and carefree way to get to everyone’s favourite shopping destination.
Personal Shoppers – For those who would like some expert fashion advice, the service is available by appointment only on Thursdays and Fridays from 11am to 4pm – Tel: +66 2793 7777 ext. 7044
Central Gift Registry – An easy way to let your guests know what you want for your birthday, wedding, baby shower or another special occasion.
As you shop for desired gifts, sales staff note selected items and prices, and photograph them for the list. Central Announcement Cards are then sent to relatives and friends who are shopping for your gifts. The Central Gift Registry Counter is at Tel: +66 2793 7777 ext. 7700, 7701.
Valet Parking & Chauffer services – Valet parking is available by well-trained and reliable staff. A 'One Point Payment Service' saves paying at every cash register instead, selected items are delivered to the customer service counter for a single payment on departure. A dedicated air-conditioned lounge for chauffeurs also features drinking water, television and a contact telephone.
Lounges - Central Chidlom offers a resting place for tired feet after a shopping spree at the Platinum Lounge, where holders of the Central Mastercard Platinum card can take advantage of various services from electronic massage chairs to internet access, beverages and snacks. Whilst the Premiere Lounge is a complimentary service for Central Card foundation members which offers an exclusive facility for members to rest while shopping at the store.
Baby Changing Room - supports the campaign 'Creating a Corner for Breastfeeding' and is equipped with a counter for changing diapers, a sink for cleaning, and other conveniences, as well as a sofa for breastfeeding.
Box Office – a ‘ticketmaster’ provides tickets for concerts, performances and shows organized by both the public and private sectors.
Tax Refund – Full tax invoices from purchases are available along with a 7% VAT refund for tourists spending more than 2,000 Baht on purchases in one day.
The'1 Card’ - extends a “warm welcome to guests from around the world” offering expatriates and international visitors a 5% discount on purchases.
It is available at customer service counters for either expatriates working and living in Thailand or frequent international visitors on business and leisure trips. Card members can also enjoy exclusive special promotions, additional privileges and earn ‘spending points’ with cash coupon rewards. For more information: www.the-1-card-com
Central Chidlom is the flagship of Thailand and Southeast Asia’s leading department store chain, Central Retail Corporation, with 68,000 square meters of world-class shopping, renowned for leading local and international brand-name merchandise, plus innovative eateries.
Value-added services at the heart of Bangkok’s premier shopping avenue are set to take the shopping experience to new heights with services ranging from translators in four languages to deliveries, as well as gift registries for all occasions and more…
Translators – For English, Chinese, Japanese and Arabic Visitors to Thailand.
Delivery Services – Both local and international shoppers can enjoy the privilege of hotel and home deliveries and shipping services.
Money Services – Currency exchange, Western Union money transfers as well as traveler’s cheques exchange.
Door to Door Transportation – Shuttle and limousine services for an easy and carefree way to get to everyone’s favourite shopping destination.
Personal Shoppers – For those who would like some expert fashion advice, the service is available by appointment only on Thursdays and Fridays from 11am to 4pm – Tel: +66 2793 7777 ext. 7044
Central Gift Registry – An easy way to let your guests know what you want for your birthday, wedding, baby shower or another special occasion.
As you shop for desired gifts, sales staff note selected items and prices, and photograph them for the list. Central Announcement Cards are then sent to relatives and friends who are shopping for your gifts. The Central Gift Registry Counter is at Tel: +66 2793 7777 ext. 7700, 7701.
Valet Parking & Chauffer services – Valet parking is available by well-trained and reliable staff. A 'One Point Payment Service' saves paying at every cash register instead, selected items are delivered to the customer service counter for a single payment on departure. A dedicated air-conditioned lounge for chauffeurs also features drinking water, television and a contact telephone.
Lounges - Central Chidlom offers a resting place for tired feet after a shopping spree at the Platinum Lounge, where holders of the Central Mastercard Platinum card can take advantage of various services from electronic massage chairs to internet access, beverages and snacks. Whilst the Premiere Lounge is a complimentary service for Central Card foundation members which offers an exclusive facility for members to rest while shopping at the store.
Baby Changing Room - supports the campaign 'Creating a Corner for Breastfeeding' and is equipped with a counter for changing diapers, a sink for cleaning, and other conveniences, as well as a sofa for breastfeeding.
Box Office – a ‘ticketmaster’ provides tickets for concerts, performances and shows organized by both the public and private sectors.
Tax Refund – Full tax invoices from purchases are available along with a 7% VAT refund for tourists spending more than 2,000 Baht on purchases in one day.
The'1 Card’ - extends a “warm welcome to guests from around the world” offering expatriates and international visitors a 5% discount on purchases.
It is available at customer service counters for either expatriates working and living in Thailand or frequent international visitors on business and leisure trips. Card members can also enjoy exclusive special promotions, additional privileges and earn ‘spending points’ with cash coupon rewards. For more information: www.the-1-card-com
Global survey finds women are "epicurean, modern and uninhibited" wine drinkers
(Bordeaux, France, May 11, 2009) -- Wine is becoming a ladies’ affair with today’s typical female wine drinker found to be "epicurean, modern and uninhibited", according to a new survey by Vinexpo, organisers of the world's largest annual wine fair.
As career women emerge as a key target market, Vinexpo polled 4,306 women aged over 18 in five capitals, analysing their values, buying behaviour, expectations and attitudes to identify common trends and differences among them.
The survey was conducted in Paris, London, Tokyo, Berlin and New York in partnership with national magazines
L’Express (France), Focus (Germany), Elle (Japan), Decanter and Livingetc (UK), and Wine Spectator (US).
The overall finding was that women have become liberated wine drinkers, adopting an epicurean attitude towards wine.
Six out of ten enjoy a glass of wine at least once a week. As women become more mature, wine becomes an increasingly regular source of enjoyment: 72.2% of women over 60 drink at least one glass of wine a week, compared to 60% of 18-30 year olds.
The majority (53.7%) and an especially large proportion of American women (72%), see drinking wine as an art of life rather than a tradition (39.9%) or cultural product (42%).
They enjoy wine at special, social events amongst friends (68.6%) and during meals (71.2%).
One highlight is that more than 85% of women think that drinking wine is compatible with maintaining a balanced diet. This opinion is particularly striking in the US (96.9%) and in Germany (87.8%).
“In all five countries women are clearly making independent choices. They enjoy wine as an art of life and associate it with friendship and sharing,” said Robert Beynat, Chief Executive of Vinexpo.
The modern woman makes wine hers
Contrary to popular belief, red wine is preferred by women and accounts for 60.1% of wines they purchase. This preference extends to 78.6% in the US and 63.9% in Japan. It is lower, but still a preference at 50.2%, in Germany, which is of course a major producer of white wines.
Far from saying that wine is a fashionable product, when asked why they drink wine, 79.3% of the women simply "enjoy the taste". More than nine out of ten women claim this in Japan and in the US, compared to six out of ten French women who cite food and wine pairings.
Within the five select countries, 87.9% of 18-30 year old women drink wine because they like the taste, and 67.5% of over-60’s.
Furthermore, wine drinking is not associated with male or female behaviour. Only 3.6% consider it a man’s drink.
They are uninhibited and confident when buying wine
Women’s attitudes towards wine are unrestrained; they make their choices freely without fear or taboo. They consider price or taste.
44.3% select bottles of wine alone, without advice or assistance. British women are more independent, with 61.3% making their own personal choices, while only 7.3% of Japanese women choose alone, the majority preferring to be assisted by an advisor.
For 56.7% of women, price is the most important criterion for making their decision. This is especially the case in Japan and in the UK, where 75.3% and 73.8% respectively prioritise price. The country of production and grape variety come immediately after price.
The findings also reveal that women prefer to buy their wines at wine stores (72.1%) or at a supermarket (64.2%), rather than on the Internet (21%).
About Vinexpo
Founded in 1981 following an initiative by the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vinexpo has emerged over the years as the largest professional exhibition in the world for the wine and spirits industry. Exhibitions are held in Bordeaux every odd year and are attended by 50,000 trade visitors from 154 countries and 2,400 exhibitors representing 45 producer countries.
In parallel in even years, Vinexpo Overseas, a subsidiary of Vinexpo, organises Vinexpo Asia-Pacific or Vinexpo Americas. In 1998 the first Vinexpo Asia-Pacific exhibition took place in Hong Kong, followed in 2000 and 2002 by two exhibitions in Tokyo. Vinexpo Americas was held in 2002 in New York and in 2004 in Chicago. Like in 2006 and 2008, Vinexpo Asia-Pacific will again be held in Hong Kong in 2010.
See the Vinexpo site for more information: www.vinexpo.com
Vinexpo takes place in Bordeaux
from Sunday 21st to Thursday 25th June 2009
As career women emerge as a key target market, Vinexpo polled 4,306 women aged over 18 in five capitals, analysing their values, buying behaviour, expectations and attitudes to identify common trends and differences among them.
The survey was conducted in Paris, London, Tokyo, Berlin and New York in partnership with national magazines
L’Express (France), Focus (Germany), Elle (Japan), Decanter and Livingetc (UK), and Wine Spectator (US).
The overall finding was that women have become liberated wine drinkers, adopting an epicurean attitude towards wine.
Six out of ten enjoy a glass of wine at least once a week. As women become more mature, wine becomes an increasingly regular source of enjoyment: 72.2% of women over 60 drink at least one glass of wine a week, compared to 60% of 18-30 year olds.
The majority (53.7%) and an especially large proportion of American women (72%), see drinking wine as an art of life rather than a tradition (39.9%) or cultural product (42%).
They enjoy wine at special, social events amongst friends (68.6%) and during meals (71.2%).
One highlight is that more than 85% of women think that drinking wine is compatible with maintaining a balanced diet. This opinion is particularly striking in the US (96.9%) and in Germany (87.8%).
“In all five countries women are clearly making independent choices. They enjoy wine as an art of life and associate it with friendship and sharing,” said Robert Beynat, Chief Executive of Vinexpo.
The modern woman makes wine hers
Contrary to popular belief, red wine is preferred by women and accounts for 60.1% of wines they purchase. This preference extends to 78.6% in the US and 63.9% in Japan. It is lower, but still a preference at 50.2%, in Germany, which is of course a major producer of white wines.
Far from saying that wine is a fashionable product, when asked why they drink wine, 79.3% of the women simply "enjoy the taste". More than nine out of ten women claim this in Japan and in the US, compared to six out of ten French women who cite food and wine pairings.
Within the five select countries, 87.9% of 18-30 year old women drink wine because they like the taste, and 67.5% of over-60’s.
Furthermore, wine drinking is not associated with male or female behaviour. Only 3.6% consider it a man’s drink.
They are uninhibited and confident when buying wine
Women’s attitudes towards wine are unrestrained; they make their choices freely without fear or taboo. They consider price or taste.
44.3% select bottles of wine alone, without advice or assistance. British women are more independent, with 61.3% making their own personal choices, while only 7.3% of Japanese women choose alone, the majority preferring to be assisted by an advisor.
For 56.7% of women, price is the most important criterion for making their decision. This is especially the case in Japan and in the UK, where 75.3% and 73.8% respectively prioritise price. The country of production and grape variety come immediately after price.
The findings also reveal that women prefer to buy their wines at wine stores (72.1%) or at a supermarket (64.2%), rather than on the Internet (21%).
About Vinexpo
Founded in 1981 following an initiative by the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vinexpo has emerged over the years as the largest professional exhibition in the world for the wine and spirits industry. Exhibitions are held in Bordeaux every odd year and are attended by 50,000 trade visitors from 154 countries and 2,400 exhibitors representing 45 producer countries.
In parallel in even years, Vinexpo Overseas, a subsidiary of Vinexpo, organises Vinexpo Asia-Pacific or Vinexpo Americas. In 1998 the first Vinexpo Asia-Pacific exhibition took place in Hong Kong, followed in 2000 and 2002 by two exhibitions in Tokyo. Vinexpo Americas was held in 2002 in New York and in 2004 in Chicago. Like in 2006 and 2008, Vinexpo Asia-Pacific will again be held in Hong Kong in 2010.
See the Vinexpo site for more information: www.vinexpo.com
Vinexpo takes place in Bordeaux
from Sunday 21st to Thursday 25th June 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel to play host to the prestigious VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend from 11th - 13th June, 2009
Macau, 8th May 2009: After enchanting audiences in Bangkok last year, The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will celebrate the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend and IDEA IIFA Awards in the exotic locale of The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel. The 10th edition of IIFA will be held at the picturesque resort during June 11 – 13, 2009.
Like always, the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend is a culmination of mega events that brings Indian cinema to the world. The Videocon IIFA Weekend includes the high-profile FICCI IIFA Global Business Forum, the IIFA Fashion Extravaganza, world premieres of Indian films and the climax of the Weekend, the spectacular IDEA IIFA Awards. The IDEA IIFA Awards is the biggest South Asian media event and is considered among the most-watched global annual events. Tickets to the IDEA IIFA Awards in CotaiArena™ will be available in various price categories. Bookings can be made online at www.cotaiticketing.com and by phone at (853) 2882 8818 Macau, (852) 6333 6660 Hong Kong, or in person at Sands Macao Lobby and CotaiArena™ Box Office.
The FICCI IIFA Global Business Forum 2009 will be held on the second day of the Videocon IIFA Weekend (12th June 2009). The Forum is an endeavor to bridge boundaries between India and the Videocon IIFA Weekend Host country and will be used to discuss further trade options between India and China. It is a dynamic global platform providing the industry with an opportunity to deliberate on a diverse range of business, bilateral economic and political issues. Her Excellency Mrs. Nirupama Rao, Indian Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Mr K K Modi, Past President, FICCI and Mr M Damodaran, Former Chairman, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) among others will be among the speakers and chairpersons at this year’s Business Forum.
After being announced in India last week, the commencement of public voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards 2009 was highlighted in Macau by IIFA Brand Ambassador Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. The announcement of the Nominations was done last week as a result of the industry voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards held earlier in March. Results of the industry voting were audited by PriceWaterhouse Coopers, the auditing firm for the IIFAs and Oscars. It was also announced that the voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards would be open to audiences of Indian Cinema across the world. The voting will be open on www.iifabuzz.com in May and would continue till the end of May 2009. The results of the online voting would determine the winners, which would be announced on stage at the IDEA IIFA Awards presentation ceremony in Macau.
The 6 films that have been nominated for Best Picture this year are truly the topmost in each respective category. ‘A Wednesday’ starring Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher depicts the emotions of a common man in a city that has succumbed to terrorist activity. ‘Dostana’ starring John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra is a laugh riot and speaks volumes about the change in Indian audiences over the years. One of the most talked about action thrillers of the year has been ‘Ghajni’ which stars Aamir Khan. The film portrays the life of a person suffering from forced amnesia. ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ which stars Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, brings to light an important but forgotten bit of Indian history at a time much before India was privy to foreign capture. The other top films for the year have been ‘Race’ which stars Saif Ali Khan, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Bipasha Basu and Akshaye Khanna is filled with suspense and thrills the audience with its action and conspiracy. ‘Rock On!!’ which stars Farhan Akhtar, is a story about four friends who create India’s greatest rock band, but never quite make it. Years later, fate brings them together again and takes them on a soul searching journey to their past.
Speaking at the press conference announcing the 10th anniversary of the IDEA IIFA Awards, Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, IIFA Brand Ambassador said, “On behalf of IIFA, I would like to thank everyone in Macau and China for welcoming the landmark 10th IIFA to this beautiful destination. This is the first time I have come to Macau and find it enchanting. 2009 celebrates a decade of IIFA magic that has enchanted the world with its enthralling experiences. We are very excited to bring the IIFA celebrations to The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel.”
IIFA’s 10th year celebrations promise to be bigger than ever before with a whole set of surprises at the Weekend. The VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend is conceptualized and promoted across the world by Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Speaking on their first association as the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend title sponsor, Mr Sunil Tandon, CMO Videocon Group said, “Videocon has always believed in enriching customer experience. We are honored to collaborate with IIFA as we see a perfect fit between IIFA and Videocon’s brand ideologies. Both Videocon and IIFA are leaders in their space of operation as we together plan to bring to you the most exciting weekend that you can ever imagine – the Videocon IIFA Weekend.”
In its tenth year, IIFA continues its association with Idea Cellular, India’s leading cellular service provider. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pradeep Shrivastava, Chief Marketing Officer, IDEA Cellular, said, “IDEA’s continued association with IIFA for another 3 years is built on a long and successful alliance for IDEA IIFA Awards. Through this partnership, IDEA will look forward to add the strength of Mobile technology to the magic of Indian film stars and Cinema. IDEA subscribers in India will experience many new and innovative value added services which connects cinema lovers to their favorite stars designed on the theme of globally popular IIFA Awards”.
The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel, like its sister-property in Las Vegas, is a Renaissance Venice-themed property featuring stunning replicas of Venice landmarks. The hotel offers 3,000 all-suite guest rooms, one-million square feet of retail space, the largest casino in the world, 1.2 million square feet of meeting, convention and exhibition space, and an arena that can host up to 15,000 seats.
“We are very proud to be a part of bringing the IIFA magic to Macao as the host of this magnificent event,” said Mr. Stephen Weaver, President of Asian Region, Las Vegas Sands Corp., parent company of The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel, “With so many world-class sporting and entertainment events having already been hosted in our property, combined with all the amazing offerings of shopping, dining, leisure, and recreation, The Venetian® Macao is truly living up to its promise. It is a place where anything is possible!”
Macao is a city on the move that has retained its unique blend of European and Chinese cultures that are over four centuries old. Mr. Manuel Pires, Acting Director of the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) said, “This year is an important year for us here in Macau as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region. It also being the tenth year for the IIFA only adds to our pleasure to host the celebrations in Macau. While giving our full support to The Venetian Macao, our local host, we take this as an opportunity to showcase Macao as a destination where the glamour of India’s film industry meets Macao’s very own blend of culture and excitement.”
In its tenth year, IIFA steers forth to strengthen its vision of building bridges across businesses, communities, nations and cinemas creating ‘One People. One World.’ Having taken the Weekend and Awards to various beau locales world over, from London to Amsterdam, Dubai to Johannesburg, IIFA has created lasting experiences in these countries, opening new markets for Indian Cinema and its varied cultures.
As a platform that reaches out to millions of global television viewers, IIFA offers a phenomenal opportunity to deliver relevant messages to audiences. The event will be broadcast globally on STAR PLUS, India’s No. 1 entertainment channel, reaching over 150 million viewers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
Mr. Paul Aiello, CEO, STAR, which holds the exclusive worldwide broadcast rights for the IIFA Awards 2009 said, “For the fifth straight year, STAR is fortunate to be the exclusive worldwide broadcaster of the prestigious IIFA Awards, a monumental showcase for Bollywood, and one that rates very highly for us every year on STAR PLUS. Through our movie channels, our STAR Fox film Joint Venture, as well as the presentation of these kinds of prominent events, STAR is a major advocate and promoter of cinema in the region and we are thus proud to bring all of the excitement of this incredible show to viewers across the world.”
To support IIFA’s ongoing pledge for environmental causes, electronics magnate Panasonic has come onboard to keep greening the IIFA’s. Mr. Sabbas Joseph, Director, IIFA said, “We are proud of IIFA’s progression over the last 10 years and it is heartening to see IIFA celebrating a decade of magic at The Venetian® Macao in June 2009. IIFA 2009 will see the best line-up of performances and entertainment par excellence as the best of Indian cinema will descend on Macau.”
In its effort to contribute to society and the world at large, IIFA continues its green campaign which is aimed at creating awareness and initiate action amongst masses on various environmental concerns. Mr Daizo Ito, CEO Panasonic India, “It is indeed a privilege to be associated with IIFA which is known to recognize excellence in the field of Indian cinema on a global platform. Our association as the green sponsor provides us the platform to communicate our philosophy of ‘Eco Ideas’ that champions the cause of a greener environment.”
The events of the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend are expected to boost tourism in the host region of Macau and attract extra visitors from all over the world. More than 500 luminaries from the Indian film industry will be traveling for this spectacular event along with some of the world’s best-known international celebrities. The Associate Partner – PVR Cinemas and the Associate Sponsor of The Videocon IIFA Weekend 2009 – Gitanjali Group have also come on board for IIFA’s tenth year celebrations.
Like always, the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend is a culmination of mega events that brings Indian cinema to the world. The Videocon IIFA Weekend includes the high-profile FICCI IIFA Global Business Forum, the IIFA Fashion Extravaganza, world premieres of Indian films and the climax of the Weekend, the spectacular IDEA IIFA Awards. The IDEA IIFA Awards is the biggest South Asian media event and is considered among the most-watched global annual events. Tickets to the IDEA IIFA Awards in CotaiArena™ will be available in various price categories. Bookings can be made online at www.cotaiticketing.com and by phone at (853) 2882 8818 Macau, (852) 6333 6660 Hong Kong, or in person at Sands Macao Lobby and CotaiArena™ Box Office.
The FICCI IIFA Global Business Forum 2009 will be held on the second day of the Videocon IIFA Weekend (12th June 2009). The Forum is an endeavor to bridge boundaries between India and the Videocon IIFA Weekend Host country and will be used to discuss further trade options between India and China. It is a dynamic global platform providing the industry with an opportunity to deliberate on a diverse range of business, bilateral economic and political issues. Her Excellency Mrs. Nirupama Rao, Indian Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Mr K K Modi, Past President, FICCI and Mr M Damodaran, Former Chairman, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) among others will be among the speakers and chairpersons at this year’s Business Forum.
After being announced in India last week, the commencement of public voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards 2009 was highlighted in Macau by IIFA Brand Ambassador Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. The announcement of the Nominations was done last week as a result of the industry voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards held earlier in March. Results of the industry voting were audited by PriceWaterhouse Coopers, the auditing firm for the IIFAs and Oscars. It was also announced that the voting for the IDEA IIFA Awards would be open to audiences of Indian Cinema across the world. The voting will be open on www.iifabuzz.com in May and would continue till the end of May 2009. The results of the online voting would determine the winners, which would be announced on stage at the IDEA IIFA Awards presentation ceremony in Macau.
The 6 films that have been nominated for Best Picture this year are truly the topmost in each respective category. ‘A Wednesday’ starring Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher depicts the emotions of a common man in a city that has succumbed to terrorist activity. ‘Dostana’ starring John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra is a laugh riot and speaks volumes about the change in Indian audiences over the years. One of the most talked about action thrillers of the year has been ‘Ghajni’ which stars Aamir Khan. The film portrays the life of a person suffering from forced amnesia. ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ which stars Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, brings to light an important but forgotten bit of Indian history at a time much before India was privy to foreign capture. The other top films for the year have been ‘Race’ which stars Saif Ali Khan, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Bipasha Basu and Akshaye Khanna is filled with suspense and thrills the audience with its action and conspiracy. ‘Rock On!!’ which stars Farhan Akhtar, is a story about four friends who create India’s greatest rock band, but never quite make it. Years later, fate brings them together again and takes them on a soul searching journey to their past.
Speaking at the press conference announcing the 10th anniversary of the IDEA IIFA Awards, Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, IIFA Brand Ambassador said, “On behalf of IIFA, I would like to thank everyone in Macau and China for welcoming the landmark 10th IIFA to this beautiful destination. This is the first time I have come to Macau and find it enchanting. 2009 celebrates a decade of IIFA magic that has enchanted the world with its enthralling experiences. We are very excited to bring the IIFA celebrations to The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel.”
IIFA’s 10th year celebrations promise to be bigger than ever before with a whole set of surprises at the Weekend. The VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend is conceptualized and promoted across the world by Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Speaking on their first association as the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend title sponsor, Mr Sunil Tandon, CMO Videocon Group said, “Videocon has always believed in enriching customer experience. We are honored to collaborate with IIFA as we see a perfect fit between IIFA and Videocon’s brand ideologies. Both Videocon and IIFA are leaders in their space of operation as we together plan to bring to you the most exciting weekend that you can ever imagine – the Videocon IIFA Weekend.”
In its tenth year, IIFA continues its association with Idea Cellular, India’s leading cellular service provider. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pradeep Shrivastava, Chief Marketing Officer, IDEA Cellular, said, “IDEA’s continued association with IIFA for another 3 years is built on a long and successful alliance for IDEA IIFA Awards. Through this partnership, IDEA will look forward to add the strength of Mobile technology to the magic of Indian film stars and Cinema. IDEA subscribers in India will experience many new and innovative value added services which connects cinema lovers to their favorite stars designed on the theme of globally popular IIFA Awards”.
The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel, like its sister-property in Las Vegas, is a Renaissance Venice-themed property featuring stunning replicas of Venice landmarks. The hotel offers 3,000 all-suite guest rooms, one-million square feet of retail space, the largest casino in the world, 1.2 million square feet of meeting, convention and exhibition space, and an arena that can host up to 15,000 seats.
“We are very proud to be a part of bringing the IIFA magic to Macao as the host of this magnificent event,” said Mr. Stephen Weaver, President of Asian Region, Las Vegas Sands Corp., parent company of The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel, “With so many world-class sporting and entertainment events having already been hosted in our property, combined with all the amazing offerings of shopping, dining, leisure, and recreation, The Venetian® Macao is truly living up to its promise. It is a place where anything is possible!”
Macao is a city on the move that has retained its unique blend of European and Chinese cultures that are over four centuries old. Mr. Manuel Pires, Acting Director of the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) said, “This year is an important year for us here in Macau as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region. It also being the tenth year for the IIFA only adds to our pleasure to host the celebrations in Macau. While giving our full support to The Venetian Macao, our local host, we take this as an opportunity to showcase Macao as a destination where the glamour of India’s film industry meets Macao’s very own blend of culture and excitement.”
In its tenth year, IIFA steers forth to strengthen its vision of building bridges across businesses, communities, nations and cinemas creating ‘One People. One World.’ Having taken the Weekend and Awards to various beau locales world over, from London to Amsterdam, Dubai to Johannesburg, IIFA has created lasting experiences in these countries, opening new markets for Indian Cinema and its varied cultures.
As a platform that reaches out to millions of global television viewers, IIFA offers a phenomenal opportunity to deliver relevant messages to audiences. The event will be broadcast globally on STAR PLUS, India’s No. 1 entertainment channel, reaching over 150 million viewers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
Mr. Paul Aiello, CEO, STAR, which holds the exclusive worldwide broadcast rights for the IIFA Awards 2009 said, “For the fifth straight year, STAR is fortunate to be the exclusive worldwide broadcaster of the prestigious IIFA Awards, a monumental showcase for Bollywood, and one that rates very highly for us every year on STAR PLUS. Through our movie channels, our STAR Fox film Joint Venture, as well as the presentation of these kinds of prominent events, STAR is a major advocate and promoter of cinema in the region and we are thus proud to bring all of the excitement of this incredible show to viewers across the world.”
To support IIFA’s ongoing pledge for environmental causes, electronics magnate Panasonic has come onboard to keep greening the IIFA’s. Mr. Sabbas Joseph, Director, IIFA said, “We are proud of IIFA’s progression over the last 10 years and it is heartening to see IIFA celebrating a decade of magic at The Venetian® Macao in June 2009. IIFA 2009 will see the best line-up of performances and entertainment par excellence as the best of Indian cinema will descend on Macau.”
In its effort to contribute to society and the world at large, IIFA continues its green campaign which is aimed at creating awareness and initiate action amongst masses on various environmental concerns. Mr Daizo Ito, CEO Panasonic India, “It is indeed a privilege to be associated with IIFA which is known to recognize excellence in the field of Indian cinema on a global platform. Our association as the green sponsor provides us the platform to communicate our philosophy of ‘Eco Ideas’ that champions the cause of a greener environment.”
The events of the VIDEOCON IIFA Weekend are expected to boost tourism in the host region of Macau and attract extra visitors from all over the world. More than 500 luminaries from the Indian film industry will be traveling for this spectacular event along with some of the world’s best-known international celebrities. The Associate Partner – PVR Cinemas and the Associate Sponsor of The Videocon IIFA Weekend 2009 – Gitanjali Group have also come on board for IIFA’s tenth year celebrations.
SALA 'Fly Free' Promotion Between Luxury Resorts in Phuket & Koh Samui
(Phuket, 8 May, 2009) – Award-winning SALA Resorts & Spas is offering free flights between the Thai group's 5-star resorts in Phuket and Koh Samui so guests can experience the idyllic attractions of both on one holiday.
Complimentary one-way flights are on offer for up to two guests wishing to experience both SALA Phuket and SALA Samui.
The 'Sala Fly Free' promotion is available until October 31 for any guests staying at least five paid nights. SALA Phuket starts at THB6300+++ per night and for SALA Samui, the rate starts at THB6990+++ per night.
It can be tailored for any combination of nights at either luxury resort, whether one, two, three or four. Air fares can either be deducted from bills or reimbursed cash-in-hand, and the offer is valid in conjunction with any other packages.
The group's exclusive flagship SALA Samui has just been voted among the world's Top 10 most romantic resorts and the most romantic in Thailand, in the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards 2009. Of its 69 luxurious villas and suites, 53 have private swimming pools.
SALA Phuket Resort & Spa, on unspoiled Mai Khao Beach in northern Phuket, was voted on Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” 2008 of the world's top new resorts and spas. It features 79 luxurious villas and suites, 63 with their own private pools.
Detailed information is at www.salaresorts.com
About SALA Resorts and Spas
SALA Resorts and Spas (www.salaresorts.com) is a home grown Thai hospitality company which owns and operates two luxury resorts in the Kingdom, and has plans for further expansion domestically and internationally. SALA is also the majority shareholder of the Six Senses Hideaway in Koh Samui.
The company’s first resort, SALA Samui, has become one of Koh Samui’s most successful resorts, voted among the world's Top 10 most romantic resorts and the most romantic in Thailand, in the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards 2009. The resort features a total of 69 luxurious villas and suites of which 53 have private swimming pools.
SALA Phuket was opened in 2007 and features 79 luxurious villas and suites, 63 with their own spacious private pools. Both the villas and the SALA Spa have already been selected as one of just a handful of top new hotels and resorts worldwide featured in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler “Hot List” 2008.
Complimentary one-way flights are on offer for up to two guests wishing to experience both SALA Phuket and SALA Samui.
The 'Sala Fly Free' promotion is available until October 31 for any guests staying at least five paid nights. SALA Phuket starts at THB6300+++ per night and for SALA Samui, the rate starts at THB6990+++ per night.
It can be tailored for any combination of nights at either luxury resort, whether one, two, three or four. Air fares can either be deducted from bills or reimbursed cash-in-hand, and the offer is valid in conjunction with any other packages.
The group's exclusive flagship SALA Samui has just been voted among the world's Top 10 most romantic resorts and the most romantic in Thailand, in the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards 2009. Of its 69 luxurious villas and suites, 53 have private swimming pools.
SALA Phuket Resort & Spa, on unspoiled Mai Khao Beach in northern Phuket, was voted on Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” 2008 of the world's top new resorts and spas. It features 79 luxurious villas and suites, 63 with their own private pools.
Detailed information is at www.salaresorts.com
About SALA Resorts and Spas
SALA Resorts and Spas (www.salaresorts.com) is a home grown Thai hospitality company which owns and operates two luxury resorts in the Kingdom, and has plans for further expansion domestically and internationally. SALA is also the majority shareholder of the Six Senses Hideaway in Koh Samui.
The company’s first resort, SALA Samui, has become one of Koh Samui’s most successful resorts, voted among the world's Top 10 most romantic resorts and the most romantic in Thailand, in the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards 2009. The resort features a total of 69 luxurious villas and suites of which 53 have private swimming pools.
SALA Phuket was opened in 2007 and features 79 luxurious villas and suites, 63 with their own spacious private pools. Both the villas and the SALA Spa have already been selected as one of just a handful of top new hotels and resorts worldwide featured in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler “Hot List” 2008.
The Opposite House Scoops World's Top Hospitality Awards
(Beijing, May 8th, 2009) – The Opposite House, Swire Hotels’ first property, has collected a number of prestigious accolades since opening just nine months ago.
The hotel has scooped honours for its fresh approach to personalised service, cutting edge design by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma and innovative restaurants conceived by celebrated chef and restaurateur David Laris.
Both Condé Nast Traveler US and UK include The Opposite House on their 2009 Hot List of the world's top new hotels, restaurants and spas.
The May edition of Condé Nast Traveler US applauds the 99 guest rooms for "Japanese minimalism with ingenious built-ins and natural brushed-oak floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with light while blocking out street noise, even here in the Sanlitun nightlife district."
Innovative restaurant Bei, which reinterprets Asian cuisine, was also named on the magazine's 2009 Hot Tables.
Bei is headed by New Orleans Chef de Cuisine Max Levy, who has trained under some of Japan’s most famous sushi masters. Condé Nast welcomes his "pristine dishes" and "top-notch" sushi.
Bei also won an award for Most Innovative Cuisine, and was named runner-up for Best Design, in Time Out Beijing's (English edition) annual hospitality awards.
General Manager of The Opposite House, Anthony Ross said, “The team is very happy to be recognized by these prestigious publications. Our goal is to provide natural spontaneous service and great cuisine to match the beautiful interiors. We will work extra hard to exceed the expectations created by these fabulous awards.”
Besides Bei, the hotel's Mediterranean restaurant Sureño took the top honours from Time Out, voted Best New Restaurant of the Year and Best Service, Restaurant of the Year.
Sureño is headed by Italian Chef de Cuisine, Marino D’Antonio, who trained in Toulouse, France and Sabbio Chiese, Italy. He has run several independent establishments and has worked in Guangzhou, China prior to helming Sureño.
Australian Gourmet Traveller additionally includes The Opposite House on its annual 2009 Best of the Best list of the world's Top 30 New Hotels.
National Geographic Traveler, China includes the hotel on its 2009 Gold List, as Best Designed Hotel.
The Opposite House is in The Village at Sanlitun, a vibrant new open-plan shopping, dining and entertainment destination developed by Swire Properties.
The name, The Opposite House, reflects the hotel’s southern location within the courtyard design of The Village at Sanlitun and highlights Sanlitun as a district of diversity and opposites – old and new; east and west; bohemian and chic.
The hotel has scooped honours for its fresh approach to personalised service, cutting edge design by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma and innovative restaurants conceived by celebrated chef and restaurateur David Laris.
Both Condé Nast Traveler US and UK include The Opposite House on their 2009 Hot List of the world's top new hotels, restaurants and spas.
The May edition of Condé Nast Traveler US applauds the 99 guest rooms for "Japanese minimalism with ingenious built-ins and natural brushed-oak floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with light while blocking out street noise, even here in the Sanlitun nightlife district."
Innovative restaurant Bei, which reinterprets Asian cuisine, was also named on the magazine's 2009 Hot Tables.
Bei is headed by New Orleans Chef de Cuisine Max Levy, who has trained under some of Japan’s most famous sushi masters. Condé Nast welcomes his "pristine dishes" and "top-notch" sushi.
Bei also won an award for Most Innovative Cuisine, and was named runner-up for Best Design, in Time Out Beijing's (English edition) annual hospitality awards.
General Manager of The Opposite House, Anthony Ross said, “The team is very happy to be recognized by these prestigious publications. Our goal is to provide natural spontaneous service and great cuisine to match the beautiful interiors. We will work extra hard to exceed the expectations created by these fabulous awards.”
Besides Bei, the hotel's Mediterranean restaurant Sureño took the top honours from Time Out, voted Best New Restaurant of the Year and Best Service, Restaurant of the Year.
Sureño is headed by Italian Chef de Cuisine, Marino D’Antonio, who trained in Toulouse, France and Sabbio Chiese, Italy. He has run several independent establishments and has worked in Guangzhou, China prior to helming Sureño.
Australian Gourmet Traveller additionally includes The Opposite House on its annual 2009 Best of the Best list of the world's Top 30 New Hotels.
National Geographic Traveler, China includes the hotel on its 2009 Gold List, as Best Designed Hotel.
The Opposite House is in The Village at Sanlitun, a vibrant new open-plan shopping, dining and entertainment destination developed by Swire Properties.
The name, The Opposite House, reflects the hotel’s southern location within the courtyard design of The Village at Sanlitun and highlights Sanlitun as a district of diversity and opposites – old and new; east and west; bohemian and chic.
Orient-Express' Jimbaran Puri Bali Unveils 22 New Luxury Pool Villas
(Hong Kong, May 07, 2009) – Luxury accommodation at Orient-Express’ Jimbaran Puri Bali resort has been taken to new heights as the boutique property has unveiled 22 idyllic thatched villas, each with their own large swimming pool just in time for summer.
Situated on one of the best beaches in Bali, the 42 room Jimbaran Puri Bali has just opened its new 19 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom villas. Each villa is set amidst a traditional Balinese garden and courtyard ensuring absolute privacy with a luxurious private swimming pool, up to 9 x 4.5 metres in size, and a shady teakwood deck where rejuvenating spa treatments can be arranged.
Furnished in traditional Balinese materials, the villas feature indoor and outdoor showers, elegant bathtubs carved from black stone, flat screen televisions, DVD players and an Ipod dock. There is also an over-sized Balinese style day-bed, where guests can relax outside and look out over the trickling pool and the colourful tropical gardens.
Villa guests will have a dedicated butler for the duration of their stay and complimentary laundry for the first day. They will also be offered a complimentary welcome minibar, afternoon high tea each day and one 20 minute jet lag massage per person at the Beach Spa. For those wishing to keep in touch with the outside world, there is also free access to wireless internet.
Furthermore, guests will be able to use Jimbaran Puri Bali’s other facilities including the private beach, the swimming pool, the Puri Bar and the Nelayan restaurant, where locally caught fish and seafood as well as French Mediterranean dishes are served. The Beach Spa offers a range of indulgent spa experiences, and features three Balinese-inspired terraces (known as bales) with enough space for two people to experience spa treatments together.
Opening prices start from US$430 per night for a one bedroom pool villa and US$700 per night for a two bedroom pool villa.
Jimbaran Puri Bali is a luxury resort with a simple, unpretentious and supremely romantic style. Individual luxury cottages and villas with private gardens, promise the joys of seclusion, beside the soft white sands of Jimbaran Bay. Excursions on the island can be arranged by the hotel which explores the resplendent arts and culture of Bali. Guests can also take part in world-class sailing, diving and treks.
The resort’s sister hotel, Ubud Hanging Gardens, is only a 90 minute drive away, situated adjacent to steep rice terraces with sweeping views across the Ayung river. Ubud Hanging Gardens has 38 villas, which are all constructed in contemporary Balinese style on gravity defying wooden pillars, with its accommodation, restaurants, pool and spa cascading down the hillside to the valley floor below, which is reached by a unique private funicular.
For reservations or bookings, please contact: (+62-361) 701605
www.jimbaranpuribali.com
Situated on one of the best beaches in Bali, the 42 room Jimbaran Puri Bali has just opened its new 19 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom villas. Each villa is set amidst a traditional Balinese garden and courtyard ensuring absolute privacy with a luxurious private swimming pool, up to 9 x 4.5 metres in size, and a shady teakwood deck where rejuvenating spa treatments can be arranged.
Furnished in traditional Balinese materials, the villas feature indoor and outdoor showers, elegant bathtubs carved from black stone, flat screen televisions, DVD players and an Ipod dock. There is also an over-sized Balinese style day-bed, where guests can relax outside and look out over the trickling pool and the colourful tropical gardens.
Villa guests will have a dedicated butler for the duration of their stay and complimentary laundry for the first day. They will also be offered a complimentary welcome minibar, afternoon high tea each day and one 20 minute jet lag massage per person at the Beach Spa. For those wishing to keep in touch with the outside world, there is also free access to wireless internet.
Furthermore, guests will be able to use Jimbaran Puri Bali’s other facilities including the private beach, the swimming pool, the Puri Bar and the Nelayan restaurant, where locally caught fish and seafood as well as French Mediterranean dishes are served. The Beach Spa offers a range of indulgent spa experiences, and features three Balinese-inspired terraces (known as bales) with enough space for two people to experience spa treatments together.
Opening prices start from US$430 per night for a one bedroom pool villa and US$700 per night for a two bedroom pool villa.
Jimbaran Puri Bali is a luxury resort with a simple, unpretentious and supremely romantic style. Individual luxury cottages and villas with private gardens, promise the joys of seclusion, beside the soft white sands of Jimbaran Bay. Excursions on the island can be arranged by the hotel which explores the resplendent arts and culture of Bali. Guests can also take part in world-class sailing, diving and treks.
The resort’s sister hotel, Ubud Hanging Gardens, is only a 90 minute drive away, situated adjacent to steep rice terraces with sweeping views across the Ayung river. Ubud Hanging Gardens has 38 villas, which are all constructed in contemporary Balinese style on gravity defying wooden pillars, with its accommodation, restaurants, pool and spa cascading down the hillside to the valley floor below, which is reached by a unique private funicular.
For reservations or bookings, please contact: (+62-361) 701605
www.jimbaranpuribali.com
Thursday, May 7, 2009
2009 Zagat Poll Ranks The Shilla 'Best Hotel in Seoul'
(Seoul, May 7, 2009) – South Korea’s leading luxury hotel The Shilla Seoul was voted 'Best Hotel in Seoul' for the sixth consecutive year by the world-renowned Zagat World’s Top Hotels, Resorts and Spas international poll.
Voting for the US guide’s prestigious survey was by over 20,000 avid travelers including 1,626 travel agents and meeting planners.
The Shilla topped the rankings in Seoul with an average score of 23.75 out of 30 -- ahead of the Ritz Carlton and the W Seoul, with an average score of 22.5.
Zagat applauded the The Shilla Seoul by commenting: "Staff always willing to help makes this upscale stalwart a heavenly way to Seoul".
The magazine also singled out for praise "a phenomenal spa, a garden that’s perfect for a meditative stroll, an extensive duty free mall and a complex of excellent restaurants".
Shilla General Manager Mr. Junghwan Kim said: "Basing the survey on ratings and reviews by frequent travellers, MICE organisers and travel agents enhances its credibility.
"These are the people we are committed to serve and impress."
Coincidentally, the Zagat survey is celebrating its 30th anniversary in the same year as The Shilla Seoul.
Since 1979 it has reported the shared experiences of travel industry consumers. Today, Zagat has a total of over 350,000 contributors to the annual survey of hotels, airlines, bars, dining, entertainment, golf, resorts and spas in over 100 countries.
Topping this year's global hotel poll were Four Seasons George V Paris, Ritz Carlton Dallas, Peninsula hotels in Chicago, Bangkok and Hong Kong, and Four Seasons Hong Kong. They all scored highest average scores of 28.
The Shilla Seoul' accolade follows its recent ranking among the 'World’s Best 100 Hotels' by leading international finance magazine Institutional Investor.
These latest accolades follow an extensive two-year makeover positioning The Shilla as a "lifestyle destination" with dramatically improved shopping, dining, health and beauty, wedding, conference and business facilities.
These include one of only four Guerlain Spas in Asia and the world renowned La Clinique de Paris.
Luxurious lodging with state-of-the-art facilities, high-end technology and subtle, dedicated service has made The Shilla Seoul one of Asia's most admired hotels.
With stunning views of Mount Namsan from a private 23-acre 'sculpture park' in the heart of Seoul, The Shilla is consistently voted South Korea’s leading 5-star hotel.
The 465-room Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju are affiliated with the Samsung Corporation and are both members of the prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World.
Recognised among the most luxurious hotels in the world, The Shilla is also first hotel in Asia to be honoured by The Leading Hotels of the World with the coveted 'Leaders Club Gold Award'.
Voting for the US guide’s prestigious survey was by over 20,000 avid travelers including 1,626 travel agents and meeting planners.
The Shilla topped the rankings in Seoul with an average score of 23.75 out of 30 -- ahead of the Ritz Carlton and the W Seoul, with an average score of 22.5.
Zagat applauded the The Shilla Seoul by commenting: "Staff always willing to help makes this upscale stalwart a heavenly way to Seoul".
The magazine also singled out for praise "a phenomenal spa, a garden that’s perfect for a meditative stroll, an extensive duty free mall and a complex of excellent restaurants".
Shilla General Manager Mr. Junghwan Kim said: "Basing the survey on ratings and reviews by frequent travellers, MICE organisers and travel agents enhances its credibility.
"These are the people we are committed to serve and impress."
Coincidentally, the Zagat survey is celebrating its 30th anniversary in the same year as The Shilla Seoul.
Since 1979 it has reported the shared experiences of travel industry consumers. Today, Zagat has a total of over 350,000 contributors to the annual survey of hotels, airlines, bars, dining, entertainment, golf, resorts and spas in over 100 countries.
Topping this year's global hotel poll were Four Seasons George V Paris, Ritz Carlton Dallas, Peninsula hotels in Chicago, Bangkok and Hong Kong, and Four Seasons Hong Kong. They all scored highest average scores of 28.
The Shilla Seoul' accolade follows its recent ranking among the 'World’s Best 100 Hotels' by leading international finance magazine Institutional Investor.
These latest accolades follow an extensive two-year makeover positioning The Shilla as a "lifestyle destination" with dramatically improved shopping, dining, health and beauty, wedding, conference and business facilities.
These include one of only four Guerlain Spas in Asia and the world renowned La Clinique de Paris.
Luxurious lodging with state-of-the-art facilities, high-end technology and subtle, dedicated service has made The Shilla Seoul one of Asia's most admired hotels.
With stunning views of Mount Namsan from a private 23-acre 'sculpture park' in the heart of Seoul, The Shilla is consistently voted South Korea’s leading 5-star hotel.
The 465-room Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju are affiliated with the Samsung Corporation and are both members of the prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World.
Recognised among the most luxurious hotels in the world, The Shilla is also first hotel in Asia to be honoured by The Leading Hotels of the World with the coveted 'Leaders Club Gold Award'.
Exclusive Private Resort "SURALAI" Opens on Koh Samui
(Koh Samui, Thailand, May 7, 2009) – SURALAI, a stunning new private villa which takes it name from the ‘residence of the angels’ in Thai mythology, is now open for private rentals in the scenic northern hills of Bophut in Koh Samui.
The private six-bedroom tropical paradise (www.suralai.com) is designed to accommodate parties, families or groups of up to a dozen people, with only one rental at a time taking over the whole mini resort.
Created by international architects MAP Design & Planning Limited and Grebstad Hicks Communications, a leading PR firm specialising in luxury hotels and resorts, it is styled along the lines of an ultra-exclusive boutique resort, and commands breathtaking panoramic vistas of Thailand’s popular island destination and a myriad of palm-fringed islands to the far horizons.
The luxury residence features an expansive sun-terrace, 20-metre infinity swimming pool, private gym and lush landscaped gardens. The six spacious contemporary bedrooms are all with elegant en suite bathrooms.
Suralai is an exclusive ‘Signature Collection’ member of Samui Villas and Homes (www.samuivillasandhomes.com), which manages a portfolio of Koh Samui private residences which are available for holiday rental.
Services for guests include a resident manager and housekeepers, with continental or full international-style breakfast including plenty of fruit, pastries, cereals and yoghurt served daily.
The residence also comes with a private chef, skilled at both Thai and western cuisine, and an optional driver for exploring the idyllic island, browsing local markets or experiencing the eclectic nightlife and popular tourist spots.
For guests who prefer to arrange their own catering, a shopping list is sent well ahead of their arrival for pre-ordering groceries and drinks.
Wireless high speed internet is available throughout, and an Imac is set up for guests use. For home entertainment, the house is equipped with a state of the art Bose surround-sound system which can be piped to all the main public areas and offers remote control access to thousands of pre programmed songs and playlists. There are also separate surround-sound systems and ipod docking stations in each of the rooms.
Each room also features the latest flat-screen TVs – complete with satellite system featuring countless live sports, news and movie channels from across the globe.
Suralai was created with fabulous parties and events in mind, with its imposing living and dining area and expansive terrace overlooking the infinity pool and 180-degree backdrop of the Bay of Siam.
Spectacular by day or night, it is a sublime venue for large gatherings – whether a significant birthday, anniversary celebration, wedding or even corporate social event.
The upper level of the villa can seat up to 80 to 100 guests, with a central counter ideal for presenting lavish buffets, and the lower pool terrace can seat 60-80.
Together, the residence can easily accommodate 200+ guests for cocktail style events with satellite bars and food stations.
Suralai is owned by Samui Concepts, a joint venture company comprising Paul Hicks and Lynn Grebstad, founders and partners of Hong Kong-based public relations agency Grebstad Hicks Communications; and the villa architects, Hong Kong architectural firm MAP Architecture and Planning (www.maphk.com); and their Thai partners.
For organising events at Suralai, Samui Villas & Homes offers a 5-star event planning service which includes everything from developing a concept for the event to full catering including equipment and staff, bar service, menus, entertainment and transportation.
Details of the company’s new ‘Signature Weddings & Events’ service are at: www.thesignatureweddings.com.
Suralai is just 15 minutes from the main shopping and entertainment area of Koh Samui, Chaweng – with its stunning white sand beach and busy, mile-long strip of beachfront resorts, countless restaurants, bars, shopping arcades, open-air markets and eclectic nightlife.
Koh Samui is also one of Thailand’s newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun 9 hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club which is just minutes walk from the residence.
Koh Samui is easily accessible via daily direct flights on Bangkok Airways from Hong Kong or Singapore, as well as frequent direct flights from Bangkok.
The private six-bedroom tropical paradise (www.suralai.com) is designed to accommodate parties, families or groups of up to a dozen people, with only one rental at a time taking over the whole mini resort.
Created by international architects MAP Design & Planning Limited and Grebstad Hicks Communications, a leading PR firm specialising in luxury hotels and resorts, it is styled along the lines of an ultra-exclusive boutique resort, and commands breathtaking panoramic vistas of Thailand’s popular island destination and a myriad of palm-fringed islands to the far horizons.
The luxury residence features an expansive sun-terrace, 20-metre infinity swimming pool, private gym and lush landscaped gardens. The six spacious contemporary bedrooms are all with elegant en suite bathrooms.
Suralai is an exclusive ‘Signature Collection’ member of Samui Villas and Homes (www.samuivillasandhomes.com), which manages a portfolio of Koh Samui private residences which are available for holiday rental.
Services for guests include a resident manager and housekeepers, with continental or full international-style breakfast including plenty of fruit, pastries, cereals and yoghurt served daily.
The residence also comes with a private chef, skilled at both Thai and western cuisine, and an optional driver for exploring the idyllic island, browsing local markets or experiencing the eclectic nightlife and popular tourist spots.
For guests who prefer to arrange their own catering, a shopping list is sent well ahead of their arrival for pre-ordering groceries and drinks.
Wireless high speed internet is available throughout, and an Imac is set up for guests use. For home entertainment, the house is equipped with a state of the art Bose surround-sound system which can be piped to all the main public areas and offers remote control access to thousands of pre programmed songs and playlists. There are also separate surround-sound systems and ipod docking stations in each of the rooms.
Each room also features the latest flat-screen TVs – complete with satellite system featuring countless live sports, news and movie channels from across the globe.
Suralai was created with fabulous parties and events in mind, with its imposing living and dining area and expansive terrace overlooking the infinity pool and 180-degree backdrop of the Bay of Siam.
Spectacular by day or night, it is a sublime venue for large gatherings – whether a significant birthday, anniversary celebration, wedding or even corporate social event.
The upper level of the villa can seat up to 80 to 100 guests, with a central counter ideal for presenting lavish buffets, and the lower pool terrace can seat 60-80.
Together, the residence can easily accommodate 200+ guests for cocktail style events with satellite bars and food stations.
Suralai is owned by Samui Concepts, a joint venture company comprising Paul Hicks and Lynn Grebstad, founders and partners of Hong Kong-based public relations agency Grebstad Hicks Communications; and the villa architects, Hong Kong architectural firm MAP Architecture and Planning (www.maphk.com); and their Thai partners.
For organising events at Suralai, Samui Villas & Homes offers a 5-star event planning service which includes everything from developing a concept for the event to full catering including equipment and staff, bar service, menus, entertainment and transportation.
Details of the company’s new ‘Signature Weddings & Events’ service are at: www.thesignatureweddings.com.
Suralai is just 15 minutes from the main shopping and entertainment area of Koh Samui, Chaweng – with its stunning white sand beach and busy, mile-long strip of beachfront resorts, countless restaurants, bars, shopping arcades, open-air markets and eclectic nightlife.
Koh Samui is also one of Thailand’s newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun 9 hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club which is just minutes walk from the residence.
Koh Samui is easily accessible via daily direct flights on Bangkok Airways from Hong Kong or Singapore, as well as frequent direct flights from Bangkok.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
See More of Europe and the Mediterranean with Silversea's Customised Shore Explorations
Wherever your heart leads you -- from the lush green fields of Northern Ireland to the Byzantine majesty of Istanbul or the golden beaches of the Greek Isles -- Silversea Cruises stands ready to customise your experience with a host of new small group and private explorations ashore.
"To complement the launch of our new 'Silver Shore Concierge' service in July, we have developed several new destination enrichment programmes for Europe and the Mediterranean this year," said Darius Mehta, Silversea's director of land programmes. "Among the new options, and branded under the 'Silver Shore Collection' label, are enticing excursions with a wine, culinary or cultural focus, as well as special tours offering the exclusive use of transportation and flexible itineraries to suit a couple or a group of friends wanting a more intimate and personalized experience ashore."
Silversea offers a number of optional shore tours featuring the private use of air- and watercraft that are ideal options for families, friends or dinner companions looking for unique and intimate experiences with itineraries that can be easily customised to meet a small group's interests and sightseeing preferences. For example:
-- Escape from the typical tourist haunts and create your own private yacht expedition to explore the southern beaches of Mykonos, visiting deserted coves only accessible by boat, and taking a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
-- Witness breathtaking vistas of the Holy Land on a private helicopter adventure that takes you soaring along the Mediterranean shoreline to view the amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site of Acre before landing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee for a fascinating walking tour of historic sites.
-- Experience Italy's stunning Amalfi and Sorrento coasts in style on your own chartered boat, stopping long enough to tour Positano on foot, at your own pace, or pausing for a swim in Capri or shopping in Anacapri -- the itinerary is up to you.
In addition, other new "Silver Shore Collection" tours offer intimate and in-depth explorations of local history and culture, such as:
-- A leisurely drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside takes you to the grand 11th-century Castagneto Carducci Castle for a tour of the interior portrait gallery and salons (not normally open to the public) and a wine-tasting in the garden's tented lounge.
-- Enjoy lunch at Baronscourt, the private home of the Duke and Duchess of Abercorn, and experience its tranquil surroundings set in a sheltered valley in the foothills of Northern Ireland's Sperrin Mountains.
-- When in Rome … slip behind the wheel of a Ferrari sports car and accelerate through the Etruscan countryside … the way 21st-century Romans do.
-- Indulge your senses with the sights, sounds and flavors of Istanbul during a private cooking lesson revealing the secrets of preparing traditional Turkish cuisine.
-- Pair your tour of Copenhagen's famous Tivoli Gardens with a thirst-quenching visit to one of the city's "coolest" new attractions -- the Absolut Ice Bar -- where the entire bar is made of ice and drinks are served in a cube of ice.
Plus another exciting new option is the "Live the City" treasure hunt style-excursion offered in Monte Carlo and Florence on Silver Whisper's voyage of June 20. This innovative and mind-enriching experience spans from shore to ship. As you explore the local sights and history with your "Live the City" map and guidebook in hand, your brain is put to the test solving a series of clues relating to each city's cultural heritage and famous attractions. Each clue reveals hidden treasures often missed by passers-by. The entertainment continues after you return to the ship with the grand finale -- The Showdown Quiz -- a big-screen mental challenge for you and your fellow explorers, testing your knowledge of the day's discoveries and solutions to the clues.
New Relais & Châteaux Land Programs
For those luxury travelers seeking a closer look at some of Northern Europe's most enchanting landscapes, Silversea is pleased to offer new pre- and post-cruise land extensions featuring the charming properties and fine restaurants of Relais & Châteaux. For example, guests can extend their cruise vacation ashore and journey from London to discover Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, an elegant country house hotel featuring individually styled guest rooms and superb, two-Michelin-starred cuisine, or explore Ireland's majestic scenery, pastoral farmlands and a 13th-century castle with lodging at two exquisite Relais & Châteaux properties: Sheen Falls Lodge and Marlfield House, as well as The Merrion, one of Dublin's most luxurious hotels. These optional land programs are available on select Silver Cloud sailings (#1911, 1912, 1921 and 1922), and include all lodging, transportation, transfers, guided sightseeing and some meals.
Please visit www.silversea.com for more information and to review the availability of these and other optional shore excursions and land programs on specific voyages.
"To complement the launch of our new 'Silver Shore Concierge' service in July, we have developed several new destination enrichment programmes for Europe and the Mediterranean this year," said Darius Mehta, Silversea's director of land programmes. "Among the new options, and branded under the 'Silver Shore Collection' label, are enticing excursions with a wine, culinary or cultural focus, as well as special tours offering the exclusive use of transportation and flexible itineraries to suit a couple or a group of friends wanting a more intimate and personalized experience ashore."
Silversea offers a number of optional shore tours featuring the private use of air- and watercraft that are ideal options for families, friends or dinner companions looking for unique and intimate experiences with itineraries that can be easily customised to meet a small group's interests and sightseeing preferences. For example:
-- Escape from the typical tourist haunts and create your own private yacht expedition to explore the southern beaches of Mykonos, visiting deserted coves only accessible by boat, and taking a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
-- Witness breathtaking vistas of the Holy Land on a private helicopter adventure that takes you soaring along the Mediterranean shoreline to view the amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site of Acre before landing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee for a fascinating walking tour of historic sites.
-- Experience Italy's stunning Amalfi and Sorrento coasts in style on your own chartered boat, stopping long enough to tour Positano on foot, at your own pace, or pausing for a swim in Capri or shopping in Anacapri -- the itinerary is up to you.
In addition, other new "Silver Shore Collection" tours offer intimate and in-depth explorations of local history and culture, such as:
-- A leisurely drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside takes you to the grand 11th-century Castagneto Carducci Castle for a tour of the interior portrait gallery and salons (not normally open to the public) and a wine-tasting in the garden's tented lounge.
-- Enjoy lunch at Baronscourt, the private home of the Duke and Duchess of Abercorn, and experience its tranquil surroundings set in a sheltered valley in the foothills of Northern Ireland's Sperrin Mountains.
-- When in Rome … slip behind the wheel of a Ferrari sports car and accelerate through the Etruscan countryside … the way 21st-century Romans do.
-- Indulge your senses with the sights, sounds and flavors of Istanbul during a private cooking lesson revealing the secrets of preparing traditional Turkish cuisine.
-- Pair your tour of Copenhagen's famous Tivoli Gardens with a thirst-quenching visit to one of the city's "coolest" new attractions -- the Absolut Ice Bar -- where the entire bar is made of ice and drinks are served in a cube of ice.
Plus another exciting new option is the "Live the City" treasure hunt style-excursion offered in Monte Carlo and Florence on Silver Whisper's voyage of June 20. This innovative and mind-enriching experience spans from shore to ship. As you explore the local sights and history with your "Live the City" map and guidebook in hand, your brain is put to the test solving a series of clues relating to each city's cultural heritage and famous attractions. Each clue reveals hidden treasures often missed by passers-by. The entertainment continues after you return to the ship with the grand finale -- The Showdown Quiz -- a big-screen mental challenge for you and your fellow explorers, testing your knowledge of the day's discoveries and solutions to the clues.
New Relais & Châteaux Land Programs
For those luxury travelers seeking a closer look at some of Northern Europe's most enchanting landscapes, Silversea is pleased to offer new pre- and post-cruise land extensions featuring the charming properties and fine restaurants of Relais & Châteaux. For example, guests can extend their cruise vacation ashore and journey from London to discover Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, an elegant country house hotel featuring individually styled guest rooms and superb, two-Michelin-starred cuisine, or explore Ireland's majestic scenery, pastoral farmlands and a 13th-century castle with lodging at two exquisite Relais & Châteaux properties: Sheen Falls Lodge and Marlfield House, as well as The Merrion, one of Dublin's most luxurious hotels. These optional land programs are available on select Silver Cloud sailings (#1911, 1912, 1921 and 1922), and include all lodging, transportation, transfers, guided sightseeing and some meals.
Please visit www.silversea.com for more information and to review the availability of these and other optional shore excursions and land programs on specific voyages.
Asia Luxury Travel Market (ALTM) Media Registration Now Open for 2009 Event
(Shanghai, May 6, 2009) – Asia Luxury Travel Market (ALTM), the region’s most anticipated luxury travel event, begins in seven weeks at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre with registration for media wishing to attend now open via www.altm.com.cn/press
The leading luxury travel industry event in Asia, now in its third year, is being held from June 15-18 and is the sister event of the highly successful International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) held annually in Cannes, France now entering its eighth year.
ALTM brings together the world’s most sought after destinations, ultra-luxurious accommodation, elite transportation and unique travel experiences showcased for the most discerning Asian luxury travel buyer.
This year sees a host of exciting new and returning exhibitors, gearing up for another successful event when attendance is considered more relevant than ever. This year’s event has already confirmed over 200 qualified exhibiting partners showcasing their services throughout the three day event.
New exhibitors that have signed up recently include Ayana Resort & Spa (Bali), Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association, Hoshino Resort (Japan), Pangu 7 Star Hotel (Beijing), Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Sofitel Luxury Hotels - Asia Pacific, Tahiti Tourisme, The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Turisme de Catalunya (Spain), VistaJet International Limited (Hong Kong) and Vivaterra SA (Argentina).
The truly international event welcomes exhibitors from all over Asia as well as a large number from further a field including many from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Australia and Africa.
From Europe, exhibitors include Carey International Inc, Conde Nast Johansens, Hilton Prestige Portfolio, Hunt & Palmer Plc, One&Only Resorts, Morukuru Lodge, Prestige Hotels of the World, Sina Fine Italian Hotels, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Tourism Ireland, Turisme de Catalunya, Turismo Madrid and Zacchera Hotels.
ALTM is pleased to welcome a number of exhibitors from South Africa including easyGolf Tours Worldwide, Fancourt, Liberty Safaris & Tours (Pty), Rovos Rail, Royal African Discoveries and Seasons in Africa and from USA; Capella Hotels and Resorts and Vail Resorts.
The Middle East is represented by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, Emirates Airlines, Government of Dubai and Oman Ministry of Tourism & Industry. Exhibitors from Australia include Orient-Express Hotels Trains & Cruises, Orion Expedition Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
ALTM is organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions.
For more information please visit the ALTM website www.altm.com.cn
The leading luxury travel industry event in Asia, now in its third year, is being held from June 15-18 and is the sister event of the highly successful International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) held annually in Cannes, France now entering its eighth year.
ALTM brings together the world’s most sought after destinations, ultra-luxurious accommodation, elite transportation and unique travel experiences showcased for the most discerning Asian luxury travel buyer.
This year sees a host of exciting new and returning exhibitors, gearing up for another successful event when attendance is considered more relevant than ever. This year’s event has already confirmed over 200 qualified exhibiting partners showcasing their services throughout the three day event.
New exhibitors that have signed up recently include Ayana Resort & Spa (Bali), Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association, Hoshino Resort (Japan), Pangu 7 Star Hotel (Beijing), Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Sofitel Luxury Hotels - Asia Pacific, Tahiti Tourisme, The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Turisme de Catalunya (Spain), VistaJet International Limited (Hong Kong) and Vivaterra SA (Argentina).
The truly international event welcomes exhibitors from all over Asia as well as a large number from further a field including many from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Australia and Africa.
From Europe, exhibitors include Carey International Inc, Conde Nast Johansens, Hilton Prestige Portfolio, Hunt & Palmer Plc, One&Only Resorts, Morukuru Lodge, Prestige Hotels of the World, Sina Fine Italian Hotels, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Tourism Ireland, Turisme de Catalunya, Turismo Madrid and Zacchera Hotels.
ALTM is pleased to welcome a number of exhibitors from South Africa including easyGolf Tours Worldwide, Fancourt, Liberty Safaris & Tours (Pty), Rovos Rail, Royal African Discoveries and Seasons in Africa and from USA; Capella Hotels and Resorts and Vail Resorts.
The Middle East is represented by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, Emirates Airlines, Government of Dubai and Oman Ministry of Tourism & Industry. Exhibitors from Australia include Orient-Express Hotels Trains & Cruises, Orion Expedition Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
ALTM is organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions.
For more information please visit the ALTM website www.altm.com.cn
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Extend that Summer Feeling at Award-Winning Cocoa Island in the Maldives
(HONG KONG, May 5, 2009) – An ‘Extend that Summer Feeling’ package at the idyllic, award-winning Cocoa Island in The Maldives, offers guests seven nights for the price of five on all room categories. Or, for those staying longer, guests can enjoy fourteen nights stay for the price of ten.
The exclusive offer from this unique COMO Resort is valid from May 1 to October 15, 2009.
The chic, Indian Ocean outpost is world-renowned for diving and its serene COMO Shambhala Retreat, an exclusive retreat for yoga and well-being, rejuvenation therapies, and indulgent pampering.
Room rates for the period of May 15 to June 30, and September 1 to October 15, range from US$680++ for a Dhoni Suite to US$900++, US$1,120++ and US$2,200++ a night for villas. In July and August, prices start at US$760++ a night, to US$1,000++, US$1,260++ and US$2,200++ for villas.
Complimentary meal upgrades are available for Cocoa Island’s guests who reside in the resort for more than 4 nights. Those who book bed and breakfast will be upgraded to half board, and those on half board will be upgraded to full board for the duration of their stay.
Prices are for either single or double occupancy with breakfast, and are subject to 10% service charge and government tax of US$8 per person a night.
COMO’s vision of privacy and stylish beach living, in the Indian Ocean, is located amongst South Malé’s coral atolls, just a 40-minute speedboat ride from the international airport. A transfer service is available.
The resort was designed by Singaporean architect Cheong Yew Kuan – who also designed two new highly regarded COMO Hotels and Resorts: Uma Ubud in Bali and Uma Paro in Bhutan.
At Cocoa, the style is barefoot and deliberately restrained, with some rooms designed after the Maldivian ‘Dhoni’ boats. Duplex Loft villas are clad in wood with generous outdoor decking. All suites and villas are over-water, and accessible by planked walkways. Two-bedroom villas are distinguished by personal butler service.
Cuisine by Daniel Johnson, former executive chef at Bedarra Island, Australia's most exclusive resort, is from nature’s larder- the freshest yellow fin tuna caught locally, and herbs and spices from nearby southern India. The menu features a mixture of Maldivian, Indian, Continental, and selection of other Asian flavours.
Guests can also choose COMO Shambhala cuisine, which is designed to maximise energy and well-being through the use of organic foods rich in living enzymes, vitamins and sea minerals.
The COMO Shambhala Retreat features an open-air pavilion for; group and private yoga classes; treatment rooms (including one for couples); a steam room; a large hydrotherapy pool; and a gym.
The Asian-based therapies range from specific body treatments to facials and sophisticated massages, including the COMO Shambhala signature massage, delivered by experienced practitioners who customise treatments according to individual needs.
A complimentary yoga class is conducted from 5-6pm daily at the Yoga Pavilion by resident Yoga Instructor, Pramod Kumar, who is also available for private tuition. His main style is Hatha yoga, although he is familiar with several other styles. He was trained by Sri Prahalade Redi, from the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center in India.
For the actively inclined, the Maldives’ warm waters promise some of the world’s best diving. The famous Cocoa and Guriadhoo Channels lie on Cocoa’s doorstep, while snorkelers can enjoy a marine-rich lagoon. PADI certified instructors lead dives and provide tuition for divers of all levels.
Private excursions include island hopping, beach picnics, dolphin watching and exploring Malé’s markets.
Cocoa Island’s an all-day lounge is fully equipped with internet desks, espresso machines, new DVD/media players in all rooms and wi-fi internet.
For reservations, please contact:
Tel: +960 664 1818; Fax: +960 664 1919; Email: res@cocoaisland.como.bz.
For more information, please visit www.como.bz.
The exclusive offer from this unique COMO Resort is valid from May 1 to October 15, 2009.
The chic, Indian Ocean outpost is world-renowned for diving and its serene COMO Shambhala Retreat, an exclusive retreat for yoga and well-being, rejuvenation therapies, and indulgent pampering.
Room rates for the period of May 15 to June 30, and September 1 to October 15, range from US$680++ for a Dhoni Suite to US$900++, US$1,120++ and US$2,200++ a night for villas. In July and August, prices start at US$760++ a night, to US$1,000++, US$1,260++ and US$2,200++ for villas.
Complimentary meal upgrades are available for Cocoa Island’s guests who reside in the resort for more than 4 nights. Those who book bed and breakfast will be upgraded to half board, and those on half board will be upgraded to full board for the duration of their stay.
Prices are for either single or double occupancy with breakfast, and are subject to 10% service charge and government tax of US$8 per person a night.
COMO’s vision of privacy and stylish beach living, in the Indian Ocean, is located amongst South Malé’s coral atolls, just a 40-minute speedboat ride from the international airport. A transfer service is available.
The resort was designed by Singaporean architect Cheong Yew Kuan – who also designed two new highly regarded COMO Hotels and Resorts: Uma Ubud in Bali and Uma Paro in Bhutan.
At Cocoa, the style is barefoot and deliberately restrained, with some rooms designed after the Maldivian ‘Dhoni’ boats. Duplex Loft villas are clad in wood with generous outdoor decking. All suites and villas are over-water, and accessible by planked walkways. Two-bedroom villas are distinguished by personal butler service.
Cuisine by Daniel Johnson, former executive chef at Bedarra Island, Australia's most exclusive resort, is from nature’s larder- the freshest yellow fin tuna caught locally, and herbs and spices from nearby southern India. The menu features a mixture of Maldivian, Indian, Continental, and selection of other Asian flavours.
Guests can also choose COMO Shambhala cuisine, which is designed to maximise energy and well-being through the use of organic foods rich in living enzymes, vitamins and sea minerals.
The COMO Shambhala Retreat features an open-air pavilion for; group and private yoga classes; treatment rooms (including one for couples); a steam room; a large hydrotherapy pool; and a gym.
The Asian-based therapies range from specific body treatments to facials and sophisticated massages, including the COMO Shambhala signature massage, delivered by experienced practitioners who customise treatments according to individual needs.
A complimentary yoga class is conducted from 5-6pm daily at the Yoga Pavilion by resident Yoga Instructor, Pramod Kumar, who is also available for private tuition. His main style is Hatha yoga, although he is familiar with several other styles. He was trained by Sri Prahalade Redi, from the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center in India.
For the actively inclined, the Maldives’ warm waters promise some of the world’s best diving. The famous Cocoa and Guriadhoo Channels lie on Cocoa’s doorstep, while snorkelers can enjoy a marine-rich lagoon. PADI certified instructors lead dives and provide tuition for divers of all levels.
Private excursions include island hopping, beach picnics, dolphin watching and exploring Malé’s markets.
Cocoa Island’s an all-day lounge is fully equipped with internet desks, espresso machines, new DVD/media players in all rooms and wi-fi internet.
For reservations, please contact:
Tel: +960 664 1818; Fax: +960 664 1919; Email: res@cocoaisland.como.bz.
For more information, please visit www.como.bz.
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