(Shanghai, December 8, 2009) – Shanghai-based Zendai Group has unveiled one of China’s largest in-house training institutes for hotel professionals in a purpose-built facility close to the Himalayas Center in Pudong, Shanghai.
The Zendai Hotel Institute underscores Zendai Hotels’ commitment to service excellence and the development of China’s hospitality industry ahead of the opening of its two exclusive Shanghai hotels in 2010.
Zendai Hotel Yin and Zendai Art Hotel will pioneer a new era in modern Chinese hospitality, providing unrivalled service to discerning Chinese and international travelers while also offering unique insights into China’s rich culture and tradition through art installations, wellness retreats, tea rooms and dining experiences. Zendai Hotel Institute is an important step in fostering modern Chinese hospitality and service, exquisitely rooted in Chinese culture.
The new Center offers a truly unique hospitality curriculum with a strong focus on art and culture. As well as international standard training in hotel management and operations – from Housekeeping and Front Office, to Food and Beverage and Spa therapy – students gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture through courses in tea knowledge, martial arts, seasonal nutrition and wellness, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), calligraphy, painting, Chinese opera, I Ching, floral arrangement and Chinese music appreciation.
State-of-the-art facilities within Zendai Hotel Institute include: a professional demonstration kitchen and bar, language laboratory, computer lab, six classrooms and an exercise studio. There is also a 260-bed residence offering students free accommodation and meals.
Trainees are recruited from vocational schools and universities across China based on strict selection criteria. After between three and twelve months of “Zendai Himalayas style” training, the best graduates will be offered full-time employment at the Zendai Hotel Yin or Zendai Art Hotel, forming a unique Chinese hospitality team able to offer the highest standards of service while also unlocking rich Chinese cultural experiences for guests.
Zendai Hotel Institute will also interact with the local community by offering short vocational courses in food preparation, housekeeping and Chinese culture for domestic helpers, private cooks and butlers.
“We want to lead by example in showing that Chinese owners should invest money in human resources and training in order to make their operation efficient and develop the industry here so that China will become renowned for its culture of great Chinese hospitality,” said Mr. Jean Pierre Dosse, Hotel Managing Director of Shanghai Zendai Himalayas Real Estate Company Ltd. and Dean of the Zendai Hotel Institute.
“Our aim within the next five years is to be the best-known hotel training ground in China and the preferred employer in the hotel industry. We hope to expand nationwide with our concept of ‘Modern Chinese Hospitality’, where art, culture and hospitality combine,” added Mr. Dosse.
About Zendai Hotel Yin
The 75-room Zendai Hotel Yin occupies the top four floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower and is the first hotel in China admitted to The Leading Small Hotels of the World collection. The exclusive hotel is styled as a contemporary ‘urban retreat’, offering around-the-clock butler service and a focus on serenity, wellness and traditional Chinese culture.
The spiritual core of the hotel, Yin Wellness is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with an outstanding range of individually customized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments devised by full-time TCM doctors. At Yin Tea House, guests can experience a range of traditional arts such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, folk music, tea ceremonies and floral arrangement, as well as enjoy health conscious, seasonal cuisine.
The interiors of Zendai Hotel Yin are designed by world-renowned firm KCA International, whose iconic portfolio includes the Burj al Arab in Dubai. In the design for Hotel Yin, KCA has taken Chinese culture as inspiration and based the rooms’ proportions and furniture measurements on ancient Chinese ‘Luban’ principles.
Zendai Hotel Yin will be opening in autumn, in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
About Zendai Art Hotel
Chinese art and culture is also central to Zendai Art Hotel, occupying the first 17 floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower. A member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, the business-style hotel is designed to be a living, thriving display of Chinese art.
With 313 luxurious rooms and suites, Zendai Art Hotel is distinguished by its contemporary Chinese design by KCA International, high-tech facilities and services, and exceptional dining concepts.
Located directly opposite the Shanghai New International Expo Center, and just minutes from Pudong's financial district, it also places a strong focus on the MICE market, with several exciting indoor and outdoor spaces for all types of meetings, events and corporate entertaining, including 19 unique Hospitality Suites.
Zendai Art Hotel will be opening in summer in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
More information about the hotels can be found at www.zendaihotels.com
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
GHM's Asian Flagship Resort, The Nam Hai honoured by The Leading Hotels of The World
(Singapore, December 14, 2009) – Vietnam’s most exclusive resort, The Nam Hai, has collected a prestigious quality award from the global marketing network, The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Nam Hai was among just ten of the organisation’s member hotels and resorts worldwide to be honoured with a ‘Commitment to Quality Award’ - awarded with the highest quality assurance scores monitored during the hospitality industry’s most rigid, anonymous inspections over 2008-2009.
Award winners were announced at The Leading Hotels of the World’s annual convention in Venice and The Nam Hai, an exclusive lifestyle resort on legendary China Beach in Central Vietnam, was one of only two resorts in the Asia-Pacific to earn the award.
The Nam Hai is Vietnam’s premier 5-star resort, combining all villa accommodation with a state-of-the-art spa, gourmet cuisine and abundant recreational pursuits in unsurpassed opulence amid the unique culture of Central Vietnam.
Just 10 minutes from picturesque Hoi An, an ancient ‘Silk Route’ trading port with a rich multi-cultural history and nostalgic streetscapes The Nam Hai is connected to the world via Da Nang’s international airport, just 30 minutes away, which offers direct flights from Singapore and Bangkok and has future plans for direct flights from Hong Kong and other major Asian cities.
This award follows numerous prestigious awards and accolades The Nam Hai has received since opening in 2006, including recognition from Conde Nast Traveller UK & USA, Travel + Leisure USA, Asia Spa, Frommers and Gourmet Traveller.
The Nam Hai is managed by GHM, one of the world’s leading developers and operators of award-winning, distinctive luxury hotels and resorts, throughout Asia and the USA.
GHM prides itself on providing guests with a distinctive and unrivalled lifestyle experience. Each hotel and resort possesses distinctive concepts and design elements to ensure that each is one of a kind. GHM is currently adding more unique hotels to its impressive portfolio around the world with current resorts including The Datai, Langkawi; The Setai, Miami and The Legian, Bali.
The Leading Hotels of the World is a prestigious luxury hospitality organization representing more than 450 of the world’s finest hotels, resorts and spas, and is the operator of www.lhw.com and www.lhwspas.com – the online sources for luxury lifestyle.
Since 1928, the company’s reputation for excellence derives from the exacting levels of quality it demands of its members, each of which must pass a rigorous, anonymous inspection covering hundreds of meticulous criteria spanning from product to behavioral standards. This set of standards is the most stringent in the industry.
For more information on The Nam Hai and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com
The Nam Hai was among just ten of the organisation’s member hotels and resorts worldwide to be honoured with a ‘Commitment to Quality Award’ - awarded with the highest quality assurance scores monitored during the hospitality industry’s most rigid, anonymous inspections over 2008-2009.
Award winners were announced at The Leading Hotels of the World’s annual convention in Venice and The Nam Hai, an exclusive lifestyle resort on legendary China Beach in Central Vietnam, was one of only two resorts in the Asia-Pacific to earn the award.
The Nam Hai is Vietnam’s premier 5-star resort, combining all villa accommodation with a state-of-the-art spa, gourmet cuisine and abundant recreational pursuits in unsurpassed opulence amid the unique culture of Central Vietnam.
Just 10 minutes from picturesque Hoi An, an ancient ‘Silk Route’ trading port with a rich multi-cultural history and nostalgic streetscapes The Nam Hai is connected to the world via Da Nang’s international airport, just 30 minutes away, which offers direct flights from Singapore and Bangkok and has future plans for direct flights from Hong Kong and other major Asian cities.
This award follows numerous prestigious awards and accolades The Nam Hai has received since opening in 2006, including recognition from Conde Nast Traveller UK & USA, Travel + Leisure USA, Asia Spa, Frommers and Gourmet Traveller.
The Nam Hai is managed by GHM, one of the world’s leading developers and operators of award-winning, distinctive luxury hotels and resorts, throughout Asia and the USA.
GHM prides itself on providing guests with a distinctive and unrivalled lifestyle experience. Each hotel and resort possesses distinctive concepts and design elements to ensure that each is one of a kind. GHM is currently adding more unique hotels to its impressive portfolio around the world with current resorts including The Datai, Langkawi; The Setai, Miami and The Legian, Bali.
The Leading Hotels of the World is a prestigious luxury hospitality organization representing more than 450 of the world’s finest hotels, resorts and spas, and is the operator of www.lhw.com and www.lhwspas.com – the online sources for luxury lifestyle.
Since 1928, the company’s reputation for excellence derives from the exacting levels of quality it demands of its members, each of which must pass a rigorous, anonymous inspection covering hundreds of meticulous criteria spanning from product to behavioral standards. This set of standards is the most stringent in the industry.
For more information on The Nam Hai and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com
World Renowned Whisky Innovator, Glenmorangie, Scooped All Major Global Whisky Accolades in 2009
(Hong Kong, 14 December, 2009) – Glenmorangie, Scotland's Favorite Malt which is renowned amongst aficionados for its complexity and delicious taste, has scooped top honours at two of the most prestigious international whisky competitions.
The quintessential brand triumphed at both the International Wine and Spirit Competition Awards (IWSC), regarded as the world’s premier wine and spirit awards, and at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
At the IWSC, Glenmorangie was hailed “Whisky Brand Innovator of the Year” with its iconic Original winning a gold medal for “Best in Class” among 10 year old Highland single malts and silver for Scotch single malts.
I earned a 94/100 rating in the 2009 Jim Murray Whisky Bible as “Complexity at its most complex“.
Elegant and full-bodied Glenmorangie Lasanta, sweetened from extra maturing in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks after a minimum of 10 years in bourbon casks, earned a silver medal at IWSC among single malt Scotch with Whisky Magazine applauding a “significant improvement” in the concept, with “better integration and substantially bigger”.
The Quinta Ruban, which is extra matured in ruby port pipes, won gold at IWSC for best in class among Highland single malts for the second year running, plus a bronze at ISC for Scotch single malts. Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible rated it 92/100, applauding “typical Morangie complexity….portrayed with clarity and confidence”.
While Nectar D’Or scooped silver at IWSC for Highland single malts for the second year running, plus silver at ISC for Scotch single malts. Guru Jim Murray stated, “It is great to see French casks that actually complement a whisky – so rare!"
Glenmorangie 18 Years Old won gold at IWSC for ‘Best in Class’ among 18 year old Highland single malts, plus silver at ISC in the 18 year-old Scotch single malt category. Guru Jim Murray’s applauded its "beautiful honeyed spice".
Quarter Century earned silver medals among 25-26 year-old Highland single malts at IWSC and Scotch single malts at ISC. The Whisky Bible hailed “one of those great whiskies where the genius that shaped the picture becomes clear only on fifth or sixth time of viewing".
Signet, a marriage of Glenmorangie’s rarest and oldest whiskies and the brand’s most innovative product to date, collected gold in the World Whisky Awards, as well as silver for Highland single malts at IWSC and silver among Scotch single malts at ISC.
In the Whisky Bible, Jim Murray welcomed “an entirely different direction for this malt…thick oak, intensity unique not just to the distillery but any other Highland malt I can think of”.
Rating Glenmorangie's latest creation 93/100, he added of Signet “Believe me, you are in for one hell of a show."
Glenmorangie is consistently the highest award-winning malt whisky in the world, defining the art of creating super premium single malt whiskies since 1843 in the Scottish Highlands, with artisans known as The Sixteen Men of Tain creating a luxury range of styles and range of special editions.
About Glenmorangie:
Glenmorangie is the most delicious and complex single malt whisky in the world. Its multi-layered aromas and flavours stimulate the senses and entice the palate. The spirit originates in the Scottish Highlands where, at the Glenmorangie Distillery, it is distilled in the tallest malt whisky stills in Scotland, expertly matured in the finest oak casks, and perfected by the 16 Men of Tain. The distillery was founded in 1843 and is renowned as a pioneer in its field uniting tradition with innovation.
About The Glenmorangie Company:
The company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH). Headquartered near Edinburgh, Scotland, the company produces two main single malt brands – Glenmorangie Single Highland malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay malt – in addition to a range of other whiskies.
About The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC):
The International Wine and Spirit Competition were founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world's best wines, spirits and liqueurs. In 2005 The Competition received approximately 5,000 entries from over 50 countries.
Responsible Drinking:
The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.
The quintessential brand triumphed at both the International Wine and Spirit Competition Awards (IWSC), regarded as the world’s premier wine and spirit awards, and at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
At the IWSC, Glenmorangie was hailed “Whisky Brand Innovator of the Year” with its iconic Original winning a gold medal for “Best in Class” among 10 year old Highland single malts and silver for Scotch single malts.
I earned a 94/100 rating in the 2009 Jim Murray Whisky Bible as “Complexity at its most complex“.
Elegant and full-bodied Glenmorangie Lasanta, sweetened from extra maturing in Spanish Oloroso sherry casks after a minimum of 10 years in bourbon casks, earned a silver medal at IWSC among single malt Scotch with Whisky Magazine applauding a “significant improvement” in the concept, with “better integration and substantially bigger”.
The Quinta Ruban, which is extra matured in ruby port pipes, won gold at IWSC for best in class among Highland single malts for the second year running, plus a bronze at ISC for Scotch single malts. Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible rated it 92/100, applauding “typical Morangie complexity….portrayed with clarity and confidence”.
While Nectar D’Or scooped silver at IWSC for Highland single malts for the second year running, plus silver at ISC for Scotch single malts. Guru Jim Murray stated, “It is great to see French casks that actually complement a whisky – so rare!"
Glenmorangie 18 Years Old won gold at IWSC for ‘Best in Class’ among 18 year old Highland single malts, plus silver at ISC in the 18 year-old Scotch single malt category. Guru Jim Murray’s applauded its "beautiful honeyed spice".
Quarter Century earned silver medals among 25-26 year-old Highland single malts at IWSC and Scotch single malts at ISC. The Whisky Bible hailed “one of those great whiskies where the genius that shaped the picture becomes clear only on fifth or sixth time of viewing".
Signet, a marriage of Glenmorangie’s rarest and oldest whiskies and the brand’s most innovative product to date, collected gold in the World Whisky Awards, as well as silver for Highland single malts at IWSC and silver among Scotch single malts at ISC.
In the Whisky Bible, Jim Murray welcomed “an entirely different direction for this malt…thick oak, intensity unique not just to the distillery but any other Highland malt I can think of”.
Rating Glenmorangie's latest creation 93/100, he added of Signet “Believe me, you are in for one hell of a show."
Glenmorangie is consistently the highest award-winning malt whisky in the world, defining the art of creating super premium single malt whiskies since 1843 in the Scottish Highlands, with artisans known as The Sixteen Men of Tain creating a luxury range of styles and range of special editions.
About Glenmorangie:
Glenmorangie is the most delicious and complex single malt whisky in the world. Its multi-layered aromas and flavours stimulate the senses and entice the palate. The spirit originates in the Scottish Highlands where, at the Glenmorangie Distillery, it is distilled in the tallest malt whisky stills in Scotland, expertly matured in the finest oak casks, and perfected by the 16 Men of Tain. The distillery was founded in 1843 and is renowned as a pioneer in its field uniting tradition with innovation.
About The Glenmorangie Company:
The company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH). Headquartered near Edinburgh, Scotland, the company produces two main single malt brands – Glenmorangie Single Highland malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay malt – in addition to a range of other whiskies.
About The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC):
The International Wine and Spirit Competition were founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world's best wines, spirits and liqueurs. In 2005 The Competition received approximately 5,000 entries from over 50 countries.
Responsible Drinking:
The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Zendai Hotels Develops Modern Chinese Hospitality Ambassadors with the Opening of its Zendai Hotel Institute
(Shanghai, December 8, 2009) – Shanghai-based Zendai Group has unveiled one of China’s largest in-house training institutes for hotel professionals in a purpose-built facility close to the Himalayas Center in Pudong, Shanghai.
The Zendai Hotel Institute underscores Zendai Hotels’ commitment to service excellence and the development of China’s hospitality industry ahead of the opening of its two exclusive Shanghai hotels in 2010.
Zendai Hotel Yin and Zendai Art Hotel will pioneer a new era in modern Chinese hospitality, providing unrivalled service to discerning Chinese and international travelers while also offering unique insights into China’s rich culture and tradition through art installations, wellness retreats, tea rooms and dining experiences. Zendai Hotel Institute is an important step in fostering modern Chinese hospitality and service, exquisitely rooted in Chinese culture.
The new Center offers a truly unique hospitality curriculum with a strong focus on art and culture. As well as international standard training in hotel management and operations – from Housekeeping and Front
Office, to Food and Beverage and Spa therapy – students gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture through courses in tea knowledge, martial arts, seasonal nutrition and wellness, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), calligraphy, painting, Chinese opera, I Ching, floral arrangement and Chinese music appreciation.
State-of-the-art facilities within Zendai Hotel Institute include: a professional demonstration kitchen and bar, language laboratory, computer lab, six classrooms and an exercise studio. There is also a 260-bed residence offering students free accommodation and meals.
Trainees are recruited from vocational schools and universities across China based on strict selection criteria. After between three and twelve months of “Zendai Himalayas style” training, the best graduates will be offered full-time employment at the Zendai Hotel Yin or Zendai Art Hotel, forming a unique Chinese hospitality team able to offer the highest standards of service while also unlocking rich Chinese cultural experiences for guests.
Zendai Hotel Institute will also interact with the local community by offering short vocational courses in food preparation, housekeeping and Chinese culture for domestic helpers, private cooks and butlers.
“We want to lead by example in showing that Chinese owners should invest money in human resources and training in order to make their operation efficient and develop the industry here so that China will become renowned for its culture of great Chinese hospitality,” said Mr. Jean Pierre Dosse, Hotel Managing Director of Shanghai Zendai Himalayas Real Estate Company Ltd. and Dean of the Zendai Hotel Institute.
“Our aim within the next five years is to be the best-known hotel training ground in China and the preferred employer in the hotel industry. We hope to expand nationwide with our concept of ‘Modern Chinese Hospitality’, where art, culture and hospitality combine,” added Mr. Dosse.
About Zendai Hotel Yin
The 75-room Zendai Hotel Yin occupies the top four floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower and is the first hotel in China admitted to The Leading Small Hotels of the World collection. The exclusive hotel is styled as a contemporary ‘urban retreat’, offering around-the-clock butler service and a focus on serenity, wellness and traditional Chinese culture.
The spiritual core of the hotel, Yin Wellness is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with an outstanding range of individually customized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments devised by full-time TCM doctors. At Yin Tea House, guests can experience a range of traditional arts such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, folk music, tea ceremonies and floral arrangement, as well as enjoy health conscious, seasonal cuisine.
The interiors of Zendai Hotel Yin are designed by world-renowned firm KCA International, whose iconic portfolio includes the Burj al Arab in Dubai. In the design for Hotel Yin, KCA has taken Chinese culture as inspiration and based the rooms’ proportions and furniture measurements on ancient Chinese ‘Luban’ principles.
Zendai Hotel Yin will be opening in autumn, in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
About Zendai Art Hotel
Chinese art and culture is also central to Zendai Art Hotel, occupying the first 17 floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower. A member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, the business-style hotel is designed to be a living, thriving display of Chinese art.
With 313 luxurious rooms and suites, Zendai Art Hotel is distinguished by its contemporary Chinese design by KCA International, high-tech facilities and services, and exceptional dining concepts.
Located directly opposite the Shanghai New International Expo Center, and just minutes from Pudong's financial district, it also places a strong focus on the MICE market, with several exciting indoor and outdoor spaces for all types of meetings, events and corporate entertaining, including 19 unique Hospitality Suites.
Zendai Art Hotel will be opening in summer in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
More information about the hotels can be found at www.zendaihotels.com
The Zendai Hotel Institute underscores Zendai Hotels’ commitment to service excellence and the development of China’s hospitality industry ahead of the opening of its two exclusive Shanghai hotels in 2010.
Zendai Hotel Yin and Zendai Art Hotel will pioneer a new era in modern Chinese hospitality, providing unrivalled service to discerning Chinese and international travelers while also offering unique insights into China’s rich culture and tradition through art installations, wellness retreats, tea rooms and dining experiences. Zendai Hotel Institute is an important step in fostering modern Chinese hospitality and service, exquisitely rooted in Chinese culture.
The new Center offers a truly unique hospitality curriculum with a strong focus on art and culture. As well as international standard training in hotel management and operations – from Housekeeping and Front
Office, to Food and Beverage and Spa therapy – students gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture through courses in tea knowledge, martial arts, seasonal nutrition and wellness, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), calligraphy, painting, Chinese opera, I Ching, floral arrangement and Chinese music appreciation.
State-of-the-art facilities within Zendai Hotel Institute include: a professional demonstration kitchen and bar, language laboratory, computer lab, six classrooms and an exercise studio. There is also a 260-bed residence offering students free accommodation and meals.
Trainees are recruited from vocational schools and universities across China based on strict selection criteria. After between three and twelve months of “Zendai Himalayas style” training, the best graduates will be offered full-time employment at the Zendai Hotel Yin or Zendai Art Hotel, forming a unique Chinese hospitality team able to offer the highest standards of service while also unlocking rich Chinese cultural experiences for guests.
Zendai Hotel Institute will also interact with the local community by offering short vocational courses in food preparation, housekeeping and Chinese culture for domestic helpers, private cooks and butlers.
“We want to lead by example in showing that Chinese owners should invest money in human resources and training in order to make their operation efficient and develop the industry here so that China will become renowned for its culture of great Chinese hospitality,” said Mr. Jean Pierre Dosse, Hotel Managing Director of Shanghai Zendai Himalayas Real Estate Company Ltd. and Dean of the Zendai Hotel Institute.
“Our aim within the next five years is to be the best-known hotel training ground in China and the preferred employer in the hotel industry. We hope to expand nationwide with our concept of ‘Modern Chinese Hospitality’, where art, culture and hospitality combine,” added Mr. Dosse.
About Zendai Hotel Yin
The 75-room Zendai Hotel Yin occupies the top four floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower and is the first hotel in China admitted to The Leading Small Hotels of the World collection. The exclusive hotel is styled as a contemporary ‘urban retreat’, offering around-the-clock butler service and a focus on serenity, wellness and traditional Chinese culture.
The spiritual core of the hotel, Yin Wellness is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with an outstanding range of individually customized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments devised by full-time TCM doctors. At Yin Tea House, guests can experience a range of traditional arts such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, folk music, tea ceremonies and floral arrangement, as well as enjoy health conscious, seasonal cuisine.
The interiors of Zendai Hotel Yin are designed by world-renowned firm KCA International, whose iconic portfolio includes the Burj al Arab in Dubai. In the design for Hotel Yin, KCA has taken Chinese culture as inspiration and based the rooms’ proportions and furniture measurements on ancient Chinese ‘Luban’ principles.
Zendai Hotel Yin will be opening in autumn, in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
About Zendai Art Hotel
Chinese art and culture is also central to Zendai Art Hotel, occupying the first 17 floors of the Himalayas Center hotel tower. A member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, the business-style hotel is designed to be a living, thriving display of Chinese art.
With 313 luxurious rooms and suites, Zendai Art Hotel is distinguished by its contemporary Chinese design by KCA International, high-tech facilities and services, and exceptional dining concepts.
Located directly opposite the Shanghai New International Expo Center, and just minutes from Pudong's financial district, it also places a strong focus on the MICE market, with several exciting indoor and outdoor spaces for all types of meetings, events and corporate entertaining, including 19 unique Hospitality Suites.
Zendai Art Hotel will be opening in summer in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
More information about the hotels can be found at www.zendaihotels.com
WORLDHOTELS Expands in South Korea Welcoming Seoul Palace Hotel
(Hong Kong, 8 December 2009) – Korea’s Seoul Palace Hotel, will join WORLDHOTELS as a First Class Collection affiliate from 1 January 2010.
The upscale 4-star hotel has a prime location near the COEX, a world-class exhibition and convention venue in Gangnam, Seoul's business and financial hub. It overlooks the Han River and is conveniently located next to the Express Bus Station and subway station.
Seoul Palace Hotel opened in 1982 and has remained competitive through outstanding service and continuous renovation, including a recent contemporary design renovation of all public areas, restaurants and ballrooms.
It features 280 elegant rooms and suites, which are all being refurbished from next year to 2012, including a traditional “Ondol” suite.
Dining and entertainment includes two signature restaurants – the authentic Kyoto-style Ta Bong Japanese restaurant and Suh Goong Chinese Restaurant, specialising in spicy Sichuan cuisine – plus international buffet The Goong, lounge style bar TWOTONE and a bakery-CozyBox.
Eleven private dining rooms and banquet halls accommodate from 10 to 1,000 guests for all leisure and business needs.
Extensive leisure facilities include a health club, Finland-style sauna, sports massage center, indoor golf driving range and outdoor jogging track around the hotel.
“As the hotel business motto implies, Seoul Palace takes meticulous care in service, treating guests and welcoming back regular customers like family,” said Roland Jegge, Vice President for WORLDHOTELS Asia Pacific.
“Rates are highly competitive and banqueting facilities for the MICE market are extremely flexible and impressive.”
Seoul Palace General Manager Mr. Jhong-Bae Lee added “We consider our personal service and convenient location our greatest assets. We look forward to extending our hospitality worldwide through our partnership with WORLDHOTELS' state-of-the-art distribution and global marketing network."
Seoul Palace Hotel’s address: 63-1, Banpo-Dong, Seocho-Gu, 137-804 Seoul
The upscale 4-star hotel has a prime location near the COEX, a world-class exhibition and convention venue in Gangnam, Seoul's business and financial hub. It overlooks the Han River and is conveniently located next to the Express Bus Station and subway station.
Seoul Palace Hotel opened in 1982 and has remained competitive through outstanding service and continuous renovation, including a recent contemporary design renovation of all public areas, restaurants and ballrooms.
It features 280 elegant rooms and suites, which are all being refurbished from next year to 2012, including a traditional “Ondol” suite.
Dining and entertainment includes two signature restaurants – the authentic Kyoto-style Ta Bong Japanese restaurant and Suh Goong Chinese Restaurant, specialising in spicy Sichuan cuisine – plus international buffet The Goong, lounge style bar TWOTONE and a bakery-CozyBox.
Eleven private dining rooms and banquet halls accommodate from 10 to 1,000 guests for all leisure and business needs.
Extensive leisure facilities include a health club, Finland-style sauna, sports massage center, indoor golf driving range and outdoor jogging track around the hotel.
“As the hotel business motto implies, Seoul Palace takes meticulous care in service, treating guests and welcoming back regular customers like family,” said Roland Jegge, Vice President for WORLDHOTELS Asia Pacific.
“Rates are highly competitive and banqueting facilities for the MICE market are extremely flexible and impressive.”
Seoul Palace General Manager Mr. Jhong-Bae Lee added “We consider our personal service and convenient location our greatest assets. We look forward to extending our hospitality worldwide through our partnership with WORLDHOTELS' state-of-the-art distribution and global marketing network."
Seoul Palace Hotel’s address: 63-1, Banpo-Dong, Seocho-Gu, 137-804 Seoul
Monday, December 7, 2009
EAST Announces Official Opening Date and Special Opening Rates
(Hong Kong, 7 December, 2009) – EAST, a new lifestyle business hotel from Swire Hotels, will officially open at Island East, Hong Kong Island on 25 January 2010 and is offering an opening rate of HK$988 per night.
The rate is valid from 25 January to 4 April, 2010 for an overnight stay for single or double occupancy in an Urban View room including complimentary local calls and wired and wireless WiFi internet access throughout the hotel.
Also on offer is a rate of HK$888 per night, for a consecutive stay of at least two nights during weekends in an Urban View room including breakfast at Feast (Food by EAST), complimentary local calls and wired and wireless WiFi internet access throughout the hotel.
The hotel is located at Island East, incorporating the new landmark development by Swire Properties, One Island East. The location is 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.
EAST is designed primarily for business travellers looking for a relaxed, convenient and contemporary environment. The hotel’s 345 rooms and suites, with both harbour or urban views, offer state-of-the-art communications technology and entertainment including 37-inch, high definition LCD TVs with numerous satellite and cable channels, the latest iHome / iPod-Touch® technology, simple connectivity for laptops and complimentary broadband / WiFi internet access extending throughout the hotel. Recreational facilities include a 24-hour gym - Beast (Body by EAST) and an outdoor swimming pool.
Dining is highlighted by the all-day restaurant Feast (Food by EAST) and a harbour view rooftop bar, Sugar (Bar.Deck.Lounge), featuring signature and classic cocktails, tapas and nightly DJs which opens until 2 am.
Responding to the needs of modern travellers, EAST has been designed to “rejuvenate you when you are tired; energise you when you are in search of fun; and support you when it’s time for business,” said Brian Williams, Managing Director of Swire Hotels.
The hotel is conveniently adjacent to Tai Koo MTR station and just a short-drive from Central and Causeway Bay.
To make reservations contact EAST on (852) 3968 3808 or e-mail reservations@east-hongkong.com
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 was followed by the opening of a 117-room small intimate hotel, The Upper House, above Pacific Place, Hong Kong, in October 2009. The 345-room lifestyle business hotel EAST opens in Taikoo Shing, Hong Kong, in January 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.
The rate is valid from 25 January to 4 April, 2010 for an overnight stay for single or double occupancy in an Urban View room including complimentary local calls and wired and wireless WiFi internet access throughout the hotel.
Also on offer is a rate of HK$888 per night, for a consecutive stay of at least two nights during weekends in an Urban View room including breakfast at Feast (Food by EAST), complimentary local calls and wired and wireless WiFi internet access throughout the hotel.
The hotel is located at Island East, incorporating the new landmark development by Swire Properties, One Island East. The location is 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.
EAST is designed primarily for business travellers looking for a relaxed, convenient and contemporary environment. The hotel’s 345 rooms and suites, with both harbour or urban views, offer state-of-the-art communications technology and entertainment including 37-inch, high definition LCD TVs with numerous satellite and cable channels, the latest iHome / iPod-Touch® technology, simple connectivity for laptops and complimentary broadband / WiFi internet access extending throughout the hotel. Recreational facilities include a 24-hour gym - Beast (Body by EAST) and an outdoor swimming pool.
Dining is highlighted by the all-day restaurant Feast (Food by EAST) and a harbour view rooftop bar, Sugar (Bar.Deck.Lounge), featuring signature and classic cocktails, tapas and nightly DJs which opens until 2 am.
Responding to the needs of modern travellers, EAST has been designed to “rejuvenate you when you are tired; energise you when you are in search of fun; and support you when it’s time for business,” said Brian Williams, Managing Director of Swire Hotels.
The hotel is conveniently adjacent to Tai Koo MTR station and just a short-drive from Central and Causeway Bay.
To make reservations contact EAST on (852) 3968 3808 or e-mail reservations@east-hongkong.com
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 was followed by the opening of a 117-room small intimate hotel, The Upper House, above Pacific Place, Hong Kong, in October 2009. The 345-room lifestyle business hotel EAST opens in Taikoo Shing, Hong Kong, in January 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.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
"Hong Kong's Legendary 'M at the Fringe' to Leave the Historic Fringe Club After 20 Successful Years..."
(Hong Kong December 3, 2009) -- After 20 successful, multi-award winning years at the forefront of Hong Kong’s vibrant and ever evolving dining scene, the legendary M at the Fringe restaurant is to leave its current premises in the historic Hong Kong Fringe Club on Lower Albert Road at the end of the year.
The Dairy Farm Building, which is its official name, will undergo lengthy and extensive renovation to comply with new Government regulations. The building dates back to 1913 and is one of the few historic landmarks left in Central, its role as a former ice storage depot giving its name to the street.
In the meantime, the M Restaurant Group is continuing to look for a new Hong Kong venue for its flagship restaurant. “We have been offered many locations but as yet have simply not found the right one to take M at the Fringe into the next chapter,” said owner Michelle Garnaut. “But our search continues and we urge our many loyal fans everywhere to watch for further news.” she added.
Meanwhile, regulars have been queuing up since the announcement earlier this year, eager to make the most of M’s famous signature dishes such as the Salt-encased, slowly baked Leg of Lamb, M’s Famous Crispy Suckling Pig and Hot house-smoked Salmon, as well as a variety of special promotions showcasing memorable and much loved dishes and desserts on the menu. The restaurant will close straight after the New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31st 2009.
Created by Australian entrepreneur Michelle Garnaut, M at the Fringe opened its doors in November 1989. From the outset, Michelle was ahead of her time, blazing a culinary trail that has always been pioneering and adventurous. Her inventive style was not confined to the kitchen, however. She created a distinctive and artistic environment in which to present her modern European food, which both played with the classics and introduced new flavours and ideas to Hong Kong, and subsequently attracted a loyal and illustrious clientele including local and international celebrities such as Pierce Brosnan, Barry Humphries, Kate Moss, Chow Yun-fat and Hong Kong’s last Governor, Chris Patten which has made this one of the places to be seen dining in Hong Kong.
Opened at a time when independent European restaurants were few and far between on Hong Kong’s dining scene, Michelle says, “We did not want to reproduce another hotel-style restaurant, but rather create something individual and with character. We wanted an interesting, good, down-to-earth restaurant that served excellent European food in atmospheric surroundings.”
Twenty years on, having survived and flourished through the exciting pre-Handover and the challenges of the past decade, Michelle adds, “We’ve seen it all, we’ve partied like it was 1997, gone through the turbulent years which followed the crash of summer 1997, bird flu, SARS and whatever else Hong Kong has thrown at us, and we’re still here and as strong as ever.”
“Of course it’s sad for all of us, our staff and our loyal patrons, the prospect of leaving our original Hong Kong home, but we look at this as an opportunity and not the end of our story,” added Michelle.
M at the Fringe is part of the M Restaurant Group, which similarly pioneered the renaissance of elegant European dining and entertaining in Shanghai with the opening of ‘M on the Bund’ in 1999 and subsequently the highly successful ‘Glamour Bar’ in the same historic building at No. 5 The Bund.
The company just recently unveiled its second restaurant in China ‘Capital M’ which opened its doors to great fanfare in September in Beijing, overlooking the city’s famous Tiananmen Square.
“These are exciting times for our company,” said Michelle, “and we will continue to look for another special location to take M into a new era, and hopefully find our new home for another 20 years. Watch this space…” she added.
The Dairy Farm Building, which is its official name, will undergo lengthy and extensive renovation to comply with new Government regulations. The building dates back to 1913 and is one of the few historic landmarks left in Central, its role as a former ice storage depot giving its name to the street.
In the meantime, the M Restaurant Group is continuing to look for a new Hong Kong venue for its flagship restaurant. “We have been offered many locations but as yet have simply not found the right one to take M at the Fringe into the next chapter,” said owner Michelle Garnaut. “But our search continues and we urge our many loyal fans everywhere to watch for further news.” she added.
Meanwhile, regulars have been queuing up since the announcement earlier this year, eager to make the most of M’s famous signature dishes such as the Salt-encased, slowly baked Leg of Lamb, M’s Famous Crispy Suckling Pig and Hot house-smoked Salmon, as well as a variety of special promotions showcasing memorable and much loved dishes and desserts on the menu. The restaurant will close straight after the New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31st 2009.
Created by Australian entrepreneur Michelle Garnaut, M at the Fringe opened its doors in November 1989. From the outset, Michelle was ahead of her time, blazing a culinary trail that has always been pioneering and adventurous. Her inventive style was not confined to the kitchen, however. She created a distinctive and artistic environment in which to present her modern European food, which both played with the classics and introduced new flavours and ideas to Hong Kong, and subsequently attracted a loyal and illustrious clientele including local and international celebrities such as Pierce Brosnan, Barry Humphries, Kate Moss, Chow Yun-fat and Hong Kong’s last Governor, Chris Patten which has made this one of the places to be seen dining in Hong Kong.
Opened at a time when independent European restaurants were few and far between on Hong Kong’s dining scene, Michelle says, “We did not want to reproduce another hotel-style restaurant, but rather create something individual and with character. We wanted an interesting, good, down-to-earth restaurant that served excellent European food in atmospheric surroundings.”
Twenty years on, having survived and flourished through the exciting pre-Handover and the challenges of the past decade, Michelle adds, “We’ve seen it all, we’ve partied like it was 1997, gone through the turbulent years which followed the crash of summer 1997, bird flu, SARS and whatever else Hong Kong has thrown at us, and we’re still here and as strong as ever.”
“Of course it’s sad for all of us, our staff and our loyal patrons, the prospect of leaving our original Hong Kong home, but we look at this as an opportunity and not the end of our story,” added Michelle.
M at the Fringe is part of the M Restaurant Group, which similarly pioneered the renaissance of elegant European dining and entertaining in Shanghai with the opening of ‘M on the Bund’ in 1999 and subsequently the highly successful ‘Glamour Bar’ in the same historic building at No. 5 The Bund.
The company just recently unveiled its second restaurant in China ‘Capital M’ which opened its doors to great fanfare in September in Beijing, overlooking the city’s famous Tiananmen Square.
“These are exciting times for our company,” said Michelle, “and we will continue to look for another special location to take M into a new era, and hopefully find our new home for another 20 years. Watch this space…” she added.
Escape Christmas at The Nam Hai With a One-Off Charter Flight from Hong Kong to Danang
(Hong Kong, December 3, 2009) – For travellers making a last minute bid to get away for Christmas and the New Year, Vietnam’s most luxurious resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An is offering a special Christmas charter package. The five day-four night package available from December 23-27 is organised by Hong Kong-based Patterson Travel (www.pattersontravel.com.hk / Telephone: +852 3102 2371).
The price starts from HK$7,590 per person for a one bedroom villa at the exclusive resort on legendary China Beach in Central Vietnam – or HK$12,090 for single occupancy. Rates are on twin sharing basis.
Alternatively, the rate is HK$11,490 (HK$19,790 for single occupancy) in a one bedroom pool villa, with additional benefits including butler service, afternoon tea and pre-dinner drinks and snacks.
The charter package to Danang, just 30 minutes from The Nam Hai, departs Hong Kong at 5.50pm on December 23, and returns at 4.50pm on December 27.
The package prices include return flights, four night’s accommodation, daily breakfast and airport transfers, as well as travel insurance.
Sightseeing excursions can also be booked to no less than three UNESCO World Heritage listed sites, Hue, the former imperial capital of the Nguyen Emperors (90 minutes drive), the nearby ancient ‘Silk Route’ trading port of Hoi An and (15 minutes drive), and the temple ruins of My Son, the religious seat of the former Cham Empire (1 hour drive).
The charter package is a unique opportunity to fly direct from Hong Kong to Central Vietnam without having to pass through Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Visas are available upon arrival at Danang International Airport with 24 hours notice, enabling Hong Kong residents to make last minute travel decisions on a convenient short break option, just a 75-minute flight away.
The Nam Hai is Vietnam’s premier 5-star resort, located on Danang’s famous China Beach – regarded as one of the world’s finest beaches. This multi-award winning resort combines an exquisitely designed, state-of-the-art spa, gourmet cuisine and abundant recreational pursuits in unsurpassed opulence amid the unique culture of Central Vietnam.
It neighbours the new ‘Montgomery Links’ championship golf course, designed by Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomery, and is just 10 minutes from picturesque Hoi An with its ancient Chinese temples, charming French colonial streets, traditional shop houses and myriad colorful shops and restaurants.
The Nam Hai is managed by GHM, one of the world’s leading creators and operators of award-winning, distinctive luxury hotels and resorts, throughout Asia and the USA.
For more information on The Nam Hai Resort and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com.
The price starts from HK$7,590 per person for a one bedroom villa at the exclusive resort on legendary China Beach in Central Vietnam – or HK$12,090 for single occupancy. Rates are on twin sharing basis.
Alternatively, the rate is HK$11,490 (HK$19,790 for single occupancy) in a one bedroom pool villa, with additional benefits including butler service, afternoon tea and pre-dinner drinks and snacks.
The charter package to Danang, just 30 minutes from The Nam Hai, departs Hong Kong at 5.50pm on December 23, and returns at 4.50pm on December 27.
The package prices include return flights, four night’s accommodation, daily breakfast and airport transfers, as well as travel insurance.
Sightseeing excursions can also be booked to no less than three UNESCO World Heritage listed sites, Hue, the former imperial capital of the Nguyen Emperors (90 minutes drive), the nearby ancient ‘Silk Route’ trading port of Hoi An and (15 minutes drive), and the temple ruins of My Son, the religious seat of the former Cham Empire (1 hour drive).
The charter package is a unique opportunity to fly direct from Hong Kong to Central Vietnam without having to pass through Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Visas are available upon arrival at Danang International Airport with 24 hours notice, enabling Hong Kong residents to make last minute travel decisions on a convenient short break option, just a 75-minute flight away.
The Nam Hai is Vietnam’s premier 5-star resort, located on Danang’s famous China Beach – regarded as one of the world’s finest beaches. This multi-award winning resort combines an exquisitely designed, state-of-the-art spa, gourmet cuisine and abundant recreational pursuits in unsurpassed opulence amid the unique culture of Central Vietnam.
It neighbours the new ‘Montgomery Links’ championship golf course, designed by Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomery, and is just 10 minutes from picturesque Hoi An with its ancient Chinese temples, charming French colonial streets, traditional shop houses and myriad colorful shops and restaurants.
The Nam Hai is managed by GHM, one of the world’s leading creators and operators of award-winning, distinctive luxury hotels and resorts, throughout Asia and the USA.
For more information on The Nam Hai Resort and for reservations, visit: www.ghmhotels.com.
Chinese New Year Fine Dining, Revelry and Relaxation at Balinese Spa and Yoga Retreat, Uma Ubud
(HONG KONG, December 4, 2009) – Stylish Balinese spa and yoga retreat Uma Ubud is offering fine dining, revelry and relaxation over Chinese New Year at the resort renowned for “stylish escapism”.
Ultimate getaway packages of two or three nights are on offer from February 1–28, with prices starting at just US$640++ for two persons.
Guests are being welcomed with a traditional ‘Ang Pao’ lucky draw ‘red envelope’, with prizes including a free massage or cocktails vouchers.
In the two-night package, daily breakfast and lunch are included, along with private airport transfers plus a rejuvenating 60-minute COMO Shambhala or Indonesian massage treatment per person at Uma’s holistic retreat.
Guests staying for three nights are additionally treated to dinner at the resort’s Kemiri restaurant and a three-hour guided private tour of the cultural heart of the Indonesian paradise island.
Prices start at US$640++ for two persons for the two-night package in a Terrace Room, rising to US$685++ in a Garden Room, US$840++ for a Uma Suite, US$1,035++ for a Uma Pool Suite and US$1,095++ in a COMO Suite.
For three nights, packages are priced from US$1,005++ to US$1,590++.
Couples can bring along a child under 12 free of charge, with an additional charge of US$70 for youngsters over 13.
Uma Ubud is located in the centre of Bali; where the hotel is occupying a three-hectare site, hidden on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley amid paddy fields carved out of hillsides, backed by coconut palms and banyan trees. The river Oos runs below; to one side stands a mountain.
The heart of the hotel – the lobby, 25 metre pool and bar – is open, clean and simply designed. This contrasts with the narrow paths running between tall, lushly-planted walls that lead to rooms. All villas have small, walled, tropical gardens.
Japanese designer Koichiro Ikebuchi is responsible for the resort’s interior aesthetic, which feels like a rural home in the hills. In each villa, the bathrooms and principal living space is separated by an outdoor area. Carved panels open up rooms to incorporate views and the scent of forest, while the simple volumes ensure light flows through interiors, from the bedroom through to garden terraces, private courtyards and infinity-edge plunge pools. Indigenous materials include local woods and alang-alang thatched roofs.
In recognition of Bali’s powerful spirituality, Uma Ubud has developed a substantial COMO Shambhala Retreat, designed for guests seeking greater health through Yoga and related treatments. The open-air pavilion for group and private Yoga practice has the best views in all the resort. There is also a meditation bale, a reflexology area, steam, sauna, gym, four treatment rooms and a 25metre jade green pool.
The Asian-based therapies range from specific body treatments to facials, to sophisticated massages, including the COMO Shambhala signature massage, delivered by experienced practitioners.
As with every Uma property, English-speaking local staff provide intelligent access to Bali’s cultural activities. Visits to Ubud’s temples, galleries and museums include the Neka Art and Puri Lukisan Museums. Guests can take guided walks through the region's hinterland, incorporating paddy fields, forest and views of the Ayung River. They can witness local temple ceremonies, as well as experience Bali's powerful musical heritage – a Gamelan orchestra or the Kecak Fire dance, still practised by this traditional people.
More physical activities include trekking, white water rafting, mountain biking and volcano climbing.
The Uma Ubud Chinese New Year package rates are subject to an additional 21% government tax and service charge.
For reservations or more information please contact res.ubud@uma.como.bz.
Ultimate getaway packages of two or three nights are on offer from February 1–28, with prices starting at just US$640++ for two persons.
Guests are being welcomed with a traditional ‘Ang Pao’ lucky draw ‘red envelope’, with prizes including a free massage or cocktails vouchers.
In the two-night package, daily breakfast and lunch are included, along with private airport transfers plus a rejuvenating 60-minute COMO Shambhala or Indonesian massage treatment per person at Uma’s holistic retreat.
Guests staying for three nights are additionally treated to dinner at the resort’s Kemiri restaurant and a three-hour guided private tour of the cultural heart of the Indonesian paradise island.
Prices start at US$640++ for two persons for the two-night package in a Terrace Room, rising to US$685++ in a Garden Room, US$840++ for a Uma Suite, US$1,035++ for a Uma Pool Suite and US$1,095++ in a COMO Suite.
For three nights, packages are priced from US$1,005++ to US$1,590++.
Couples can bring along a child under 12 free of charge, with an additional charge of US$70 for youngsters over 13.
Uma Ubud is located in the centre of Bali; where the hotel is occupying a three-hectare site, hidden on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley amid paddy fields carved out of hillsides, backed by coconut palms and banyan trees. The river Oos runs below; to one side stands a mountain.
The heart of the hotel – the lobby, 25 metre pool and bar – is open, clean and simply designed. This contrasts with the narrow paths running between tall, lushly-planted walls that lead to rooms. All villas have small, walled, tropical gardens.
Japanese designer Koichiro Ikebuchi is responsible for the resort’s interior aesthetic, which feels like a rural home in the hills. In each villa, the bathrooms and principal living space is separated by an outdoor area. Carved panels open up rooms to incorporate views and the scent of forest, while the simple volumes ensure light flows through interiors, from the bedroom through to garden terraces, private courtyards and infinity-edge plunge pools. Indigenous materials include local woods and alang-alang thatched roofs.
In recognition of Bali’s powerful spirituality, Uma Ubud has developed a substantial COMO Shambhala Retreat, designed for guests seeking greater health through Yoga and related treatments. The open-air pavilion for group and private Yoga practice has the best views in all the resort. There is also a meditation bale, a reflexology area, steam, sauna, gym, four treatment rooms and a 25metre jade green pool.
The Asian-based therapies range from specific body treatments to facials, to sophisticated massages, including the COMO Shambhala signature massage, delivered by experienced practitioners.
As with every Uma property, English-speaking local staff provide intelligent access to Bali’s cultural activities. Visits to Ubud’s temples, galleries and museums include the Neka Art and Puri Lukisan Museums. Guests can take guided walks through the region's hinterland, incorporating paddy fields, forest and views of the Ayung River. They can witness local temple ceremonies, as well as experience Bali's powerful musical heritage – a Gamelan orchestra or the Kecak Fire dance, still practised by this traditional people.
More physical activities include trekking, white water rafting, mountain biking and volcano climbing.
The Uma Ubud Chinese New Year package rates are subject to an additional 21% government tax and service charge.
For reservations or more information please contact res.ubud@uma.como.bz.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Opens a Trio of New Resorts in Time for Christmas
HONG KONG. – December 4, 2009 – The award winning Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. offers winter vacationers a trio of resorts opening just in time for the holidays. From the snow-covered slopes of Lake Tahoe to the foothills of Arizona’s Tortolita Mountains, and across the Pacific to the lush forests of southern Thailand, these unique resorts offer the exceptional settings and extraordinary guest service which The Ritz-Carlton is known for around the world.
Opening December 9, The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe, a US$300 million slope-side project, offers ski-in, ski-out access in winter. The 170-room contemporary lodge design also includes 23 private Ritz-Carlton Residences and 25 Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Residences. Guests will enjoy organic and regional dining at the resort’s signature restaurant, Manzanita, created by renowned San Francisco chef Traci Des Jardins. The first new-build resort development in the Lake Tahoe area in decades, it is situated mid-mountain in the Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort, with an inter-mountain gondola to offer ease of access to the slopes and the hotel. After a day of skiing, guests of The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe can rest and relax at the 17,000 square foot Highlands Spa, where treatments and therapies are themed around water and the woods.
Adjacent to the resort, The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe offers two to four bedroom fractional residences with mountain and valley views of the Sierra Nevada. The fractional ownership prices range from the low US$100,000 to more than US$500,000 per deeded Home Club Membership. Portfolio Memberships are also available.
Also in the western region of the United States, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain welcomes its first guests on December 18. Nestled in the foothills of the dramatic Tortolita Mountains, the 250-room low rise resort is surrounded by thousands of majestic Saguaro cacti, ancient Petroglyphs left by the Hohokam Indians, and home to native wildlife living within the 850 acres of the environment northwest of Tucson, Arizona. To enjoy the serenity of the high Sonoran Desert at its very best, guests can select from a small group of secluded casitas overlooking Wild Burro Canyon.
Golfers will take to the greens of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, host of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. For outdoors types, more than 20 miles of clearly mapped trails by National Geographic will challenge their fitness and endurance skills. At the end of an active day, the Spa is the perfect respite for soothing treatments inspired by ancient Native American traditions. Diners will discover CORE Kitchen and Wine Bar featuring an open kitchen highlighting the culinary team, with 180 degree views overlooking the desert terrain. Chef de Cuisine, Joel Harrington brings his culinary talent from the award-winning Fearings Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas.
Finally on December 22, The Ritz-Carlton introduces its first of a select group of Reserve properties, which are a brand extension planned for unique destinations around the globe. At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Krabi, Southern Thailand, 54 villas and pavilions have been designed to embrace the serenity and magical features of the country. Guests enter the resort over a stepping-stone walkway that leads them to a wooden Thai pavilion situated on an island surrounded by thousands of gently flickering candles.
The contemporary Thai style blends seamlessly with the canopy of forests and flowers amidst the dense vegetation. High aubergine walls and ‘hedges’ made from indigenous trees add to the sense of being one with nature. Set on the shores of the Andaman Sea, guests of the resort can walk to the beach for an al fresco picnic. For the adventure seeker, elephant treks can transport guests to sites of ancient ruins, Buddhist temples, and undisturbed scenery. The experiences offered can be personally tailored to fulfill every wish.
For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe; The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain; or Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, consult www.ritzcarlton.com or a travel professional.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 73 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates; Shanghai, Pudong, China; and Kowloon, Hong Kong. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.
Opening December 9, The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe, a US$300 million slope-side project, offers ski-in, ski-out access in winter. The 170-room contemporary lodge design also includes 23 private Ritz-Carlton Residences and 25 Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Residences. Guests will enjoy organic and regional dining at the resort’s signature restaurant, Manzanita, created by renowned San Francisco chef Traci Des Jardins. The first new-build resort development in the Lake Tahoe area in decades, it is situated mid-mountain in the Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort, with an inter-mountain gondola to offer ease of access to the slopes and the hotel. After a day of skiing, guests of The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe can rest and relax at the 17,000 square foot Highlands Spa, where treatments and therapies are themed around water and the woods.
Adjacent to the resort, The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe offers two to four bedroom fractional residences with mountain and valley views of the Sierra Nevada. The fractional ownership prices range from the low US$100,000 to more than US$500,000 per deeded Home Club Membership. Portfolio Memberships are also available.
Also in the western region of the United States, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain welcomes its first guests on December 18. Nestled in the foothills of the dramatic Tortolita Mountains, the 250-room low rise resort is surrounded by thousands of majestic Saguaro cacti, ancient Petroglyphs left by the Hohokam Indians, and home to native wildlife living within the 850 acres of the environment northwest of Tucson, Arizona. To enjoy the serenity of the high Sonoran Desert at its very best, guests can select from a small group of secluded casitas overlooking Wild Burro Canyon.
Golfers will take to the greens of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, host of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. For outdoors types, more than 20 miles of clearly mapped trails by National Geographic will challenge their fitness and endurance skills. At the end of an active day, the Spa is the perfect respite for soothing treatments inspired by ancient Native American traditions. Diners will discover CORE Kitchen and Wine Bar featuring an open kitchen highlighting the culinary team, with 180 degree views overlooking the desert terrain. Chef de Cuisine, Joel Harrington brings his culinary talent from the award-winning Fearings Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas.
Finally on December 22, The Ritz-Carlton introduces its first of a select group of Reserve properties, which are a brand extension planned for unique destinations around the globe. At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Krabi, Southern Thailand, 54 villas and pavilions have been designed to embrace the serenity and magical features of the country. Guests enter the resort over a stepping-stone walkway that leads them to a wooden Thai pavilion situated on an island surrounded by thousands of gently flickering candles.
The contemporary Thai style blends seamlessly with the canopy of forests and flowers amidst the dense vegetation. High aubergine walls and ‘hedges’ made from indigenous trees add to the sense of being one with nature. Set on the shores of the Andaman Sea, guests of the resort can walk to the beach for an al fresco picnic. For the adventure seeker, elephant treks can transport guests to sites of ancient ruins, Buddhist temples, and undisturbed scenery. The experiences offered can be personally tailored to fulfill every wish.
For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe; The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain; or Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, consult www.ritzcarlton.com or a travel professional.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 73 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates; Shanghai, Pudong, China; and Kowloon, Hong Kong. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.
Count Down to 2010 with alivenotdead.com at zuma
(Hong Kong, December 4, 2009) – Following the runaway success of the ‘Dead Not Alive’ Halloween party, which featured over 1,200 partygoers and celebrities in costume, alivenotdead.com and zuma have again teamed up to bring Hong Kong’s artists and trendsetters a night of gourmet Japanese cuisine and a spectacular count down to the new year at Central’s late night hotspot -- zuma.
An all-star lineup of world class DJs has been assembled from alivenotdead.com’s artist community to make the countdown party one to remember. Actor and fashion icon Sam Lee (aka DJ Becareful) will be headlining with support from actress/model Tung Tung Wong (aka DJ Miss Yellow), Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy co-founder DJ Enso and World DMC finalist DJ Noodles from Taiwan.
Dinner will run from 7pm-9pm and will be followed by a private VIP pre-party from 9pm-10pm. The countdown party opens to the public at 10pm and will go until late. All events will be held in zuma’s lounge at Level 6 of The Landmark.
zuma’s delicious set dinner is priced at HK$1,500 per head, which includes admission to the VIP pre-party as well as the countdown party. Entry for only the countdown party is HK$250 in advance, HK$300 at the door, and HK$200 after 1am and includes 1 free drink. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.alivenotdead.com/nye2010.
The alivenotdead.com portal is a vibrant on-line artistic community of some of Asia’s top actors and musicians as well as aspiring and up & coming artists. Among the leading lights of the network are celebrities Daniel Wu, Conroy Chan, Andrew Lin and Terence Yin.
zuma recently launched the trendy new nightspot at its 6th floor lounge, with extended late-night opening hours from Thursday – Saturday til 2am, state-of-the-art sound system and a funky re-design. Including an outside terrace overlooking Central, the party venue has become renowned for resident and international DJs from Thursday to Saturday, as well as themed 'zuma Parties'. Table bookings can be reserved online at reservations@zumarestaurant.com.hk.
Address: zuma - Level 6, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
An all-star lineup of world class DJs has been assembled from alivenotdead.com’s artist community to make the countdown party one to remember. Actor and fashion icon Sam Lee (aka DJ Becareful) will be headlining with support from actress/model Tung Tung Wong (aka DJ Miss Yellow), Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy co-founder DJ Enso and World DMC finalist DJ Noodles from Taiwan.
Dinner will run from 7pm-9pm and will be followed by a private VIP pre-party from 9pm-10pm. The countdown party opens to the public at 10pm and will go until late. All events will be held in zuma’s lounge at Level 6 of The Landmark.
zuma’s delicious set dinner is priced at HK$1,500 per head, which includes admission to the VIP pre-party as well as the countdown party. Entry for only the countdown party is HK$250 in advance, HK$300 at the door, and HK$200 after 1am and includes 1 free drink. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.alivenotdead.com/nye2010.
The alivenotdead.com portal is a vibrant on-line artistic community of some of Asia’s top actors and musicians as well as aspiring and up & coming artists. Among the leading lights of the network are celebrities Daniel Wu, Conroy Chan, Andrew Lin and Terence Yin.
zuma recently launched the trendy new nightspot at its 6th floor lounge, with extended late-night opening hours from Thursday – Saturday til 2am, state-of-the-art sound system and a funky re-design. Including an outside terrace overlooking Central, the party venue has become renowned for resident and international DJs from Thursday to Saturday, as well as themed 'zuma Parties'. Table bookings can be reserved online at reservations@zumarestaurant.com.hk.
Address: zuma - Level 6, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Ribs, Ribs, Ribs Night!' Every Tuesday Night at Beijing Steakhouse, The Meat & Wine Co
(Beijing, 4 December, 2009) — South African-style steakhouse The Meat & Wine Co is promoting ‘Ribs, Ribs, Ribs Night!’ by offering two unique char-grilled rib racks for the price of one, every Tuesday Night from the 1st December, at Beijing lifestyle development CH’IEN MEN 23.
The great value promotion which offers a saving of up to RMB 395, on the newly themed menu’s most popular dish, is ideal for families or groups of friends.
Every Tuesday, guests ordering either a half or full rack of ribs served with French fries, vegetables of the day, roasted chat potatoes, onion rings or side salad, receive a second order free of charge.
Pork ribs are priced at RMB 198 for a half rack (500g) and RMB 348 for a full rack (1 kg). Beef ribs are RMB 218 (RMB 378) and the 'Best of Both' combination ( a half pork, half beef rack) is RMB 395.
The specialty rib racks are slow-cooked and finished on a flaming hot char-grill, sealing in their unique taste and flavour.
The Meat & Wine Co is famed worldwide for good value superior beef, superb wine and friendly service. It specialises in selected cuts of super-aged meat, carefully managed from the “Pasture to the Plate”, matured to perfection and grilled to order with unique basting. All this is accompanied by salads, French fries and a wide choice of dips and sauces.
It is also renowned for its all-you-can-eat ‘Sunday Brunch on a Spit’ priced at just RMB 168, every Sunday from 11am - 5pm. The latter is headlined by pork, lamb and chicken, roasted outdoors on a spit and complemented by a buffet of salads and side dishes.
Also on the menu are the traditional South African specialties including boerewors beef sausage and dried biltong beef. ‘Catch of the Day’ seafood, pastas, burgers and classic desserts including Madagascar vanilla crème brûlée, apple and rhubarb crumble, and lime and coconut pannacotta are on offer to satisfy the patrons’ appetites. Set menu options, which range in price between RMB 288-998 are available in the five private dining rooms.
Hand-picked fine wines from boutique wineries in South Africa, New Zealand, Chile and China grace Beijing’s first ever ‘wine tunnel,’ leading to a wine cellar. The brand’s first, Asian flagship outlet opened earlier this year in Beijing’s Dong Cheng District.
The great value promotion which offers a saving of up to RMB 395, on the newly themed menu’s most popular dish, is ideal for families or groups of friends.
Every Tuesday, guests ordering either a half or full rack of ribs served with French fries, vegetables of the day, roasted chat potatoes, onion rings or side salad, receive a second order free of charge.
Pork ribs are priced at RMB 198 for a half rack (500g) and RMB 348 for a full rack (1 kg). Beef ribs are RMB 218 (RMB 378) and the 'Best of Both' combination ( a half pork, half beef rack) is RMB 395.
The specialty rib racks are slow-cooked and finished on a flaming hot char-grill, sealing in their unique taste and flavour.
The Meat & Wine Co is famed worldwide for good value superior beef, superb wine and friendly service. It specialises in selected cuts of super-aged meat, carefully managed from the “Pasture to the Plate”, matured to perfection and grilled to order with unique basting. All this is accompanied by salads, French fries and a wide choice of dips and sauces.
It is also renowned for its all-you-can-eat ‘Sunday Brunch on a Spit’ priced at just RMB 168, every Sunday from 11am - 5pm. The latter is headlined by pork, lamb and chicken, roasted outdoors on a spit and complemented by a buffet of salads and side dishes.
Also on the menu are the traditional South African specialties including boerewors beef sausage and dried biltong beef. ‘Catch of the Day’ seafood, pastas, burgers and classic desserts including Madagascar vanilla crème brûlée, apple and rhubarb crumble, and lime and coconut pannacotta are on offer to satisfy the patrons’ appetites. Set menu options, which range in price between RMB 288-998 are available in the five private dining rooms.
Hand-picked fine wines from boutique wineries in South Africa, New Zealand, Chile and China grace Beijing’s first ever ‘wine tunnel,’ leading to a wine cellar. The brand’s first, Asian flagship outlet opened earlier this year in Beijing’s Dong Cheng District.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, SANYA WINS BEST NEW SPA AWARD
Hong Kong, 27 November 2009 — Mandarin Oriental, Sanya is delighted to have been awarded the prestigious annual AsiaSpa Award ‘Best New Spa 2009’ at the publication’s awards ceremony in Hong Kong earlier this month. Competing with 12 other competitors across Asia, the resort’s spacious 3,200 square metre Spa Village was singled out for its innovative design, unrivalled service levels and unique holistic and wellness treatments on offer. “The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya is a destination in itself offering privacy and relaxation”, Stephan Wagner, Director of Spa and Recreation, said. “Our professional team of experts takes pride in spoiling and pampering our guests with a range of wellness and beauty treatments that are unrivalled on the island”.
Since opening in January of this year, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya has been widely acclaimed, and has been recognized by a range of international magazines such as Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and CNN Traveller amongst others. As the only luxury resort in the region to offer Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, holistic Tai Chi and Qi Gong classes delivered by a Shaolin Kung Fu Master, and Yoga from an Indian Yoga Master, the resort offers the chance to experience an international mix of therapies, and ancient Asian holistic and wellness treatments in truly idyllic surroundings.
About Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, is situated on a 1.2 km exclusive coral beach near Sanya city in Hainan Island, China’s most popular beachfront holiday destination. Providing sheer luxury and refined elegance, it is set among 12 hectares of exclusive tropical foliage in a sheltered bay offering panoramic views of the South China Sea. Ideally located near the city’s popular shopping and entertainment district, Dadonghai, it provides convenient access to both the international airport and most of the nearby tourist attractions.
The resort features a series of private low rise and pool villa accommodation with ocean views, some featuring individual pools, patios and gazebos. There are 11 innovative restaurants and bars, an extensive spa village with private treatment suites and gardens, a large recreation centre with children’s facilities and over 6,000 sq metres of indoor and outdoor conference and banqueting space, providing guests with the perfect destination getaway whether for business or pleasure.
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world's most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 14 in The Americas and 10 in Europe and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group’s properties.
Photography of Mandarin Oriental is available to download, in high and low resolution, in the Photo Library of our Media section, at www.mandarinoriental.com.
Since opening in January of this year, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya has been widely acclaimed, and has been recognized by a range of international magazines such as Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and CNN Traveller amongst others. As the only luxury resort in the region to offer Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, holistic Tai Chi and Qi Gong classes delivered by a Shaolin Kung Fu Master, and Yoga from an Indian Yoga Master, the resort offers the chance to experience an international mix of therapies, and ancient Asian holistic and wellness treatments in truly idyllic surroundings.
About Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, is situated on a 1.2 km exclusive coral beach near Sanya city in Hainan Island, China’s most popular beachfront holiday destination. Providing sheer luxury and refined elegance, it is set among 12 hectares of exclusive tropical foliage in a sheltered bay offering panoramic views of the South China Sea. Ideally located near the city’s popular shopping and entertainment district, Dadonghai, it provides convenient access to both the international airport and most of the nearby tourist attractions.
The resort features a series of private low rise and pool villa accommodation with ocean views, some featuring individual pools, patios and gazebos. There are 11 innovative restaurants and bars, an extensive spa village with private treatment suites and gardens, a large recreation centre with children’s facilities and over 6,000 sq metres of indoor and outdoor conference and banqueting space, providing guests with the perfect destination getaway whether for business or pleasure.
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world's most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 14 in The Americas and 10 in Europe and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group’s properties.
Photography of Mandarin Oriental is available to download, in high and low resolution, in the Photo Library of our Media section, at www.mandarinoriental.com.
Shanghai's New Zendai Hotel Yin Joins The Leading Small Hotels of the World
(Shanghai, December 1, 2009) -- Zendai Hotel Yin, an ultra luxury city retreat set to open in Shanghai in autumn 2010, has become the first small luxury hotel in China admitted to The Leading Small Hotels of the World, the world's premier marketing consortium for luxury hotels and resorts.
Zendai Hotel Yin is atop a new architectural masterpiece named the Himalayas Center, opening in Pudong in time for the Shanghai World Expo.
Philip Ho, Vice President Asia Pacific for The Leading Hotels of the World, said: “Zendai Hotel Yin sets the benchmark we seek as we look to expand our presence in the China market. We are delighted to welcome this refreshing new hotel to the LHW family”.
With 75 exquisite rooms, it is styled as an exclusive ‘urban retreat” with contemporary, Chinese-inspired design, a Traditional Chinese Medicine Wellness Center and 24-hour butler service.
Chinese art and culture is central to the design and ambience. Highlights include a Chinese Tea House and a contemporary Chinese restaurant that will serve modern, healthy cuisine created from the freshest, seasonal Chinese ingredients.
Guests will also be able to immerse themselves in a “Chinese intellectual retreat”, experiencing a range of traditional Chinese arts such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, folk music, tea ceremony and floral arrangement.
Designed by world renowned architect Arata Isozaki, the 'Himalayas Center' is hailed by developers, The Zendai Group, as an ‘archisculptural icon for 21st Century China’.
Zendai Hotel Yin is incorporated into the same development as Zendai Art Hotel, a luxury business hotel.
Both set a new benchmark in hospitality, fusing Chinese art and culture with the supreme comfort, luxury and high tech convenience expected of today’s hotels, according to Stella Huang, Director of Zendai Hotel Yin.
Room sizes begin at a very generous 60 m2 and guests may enjoy the facilities of a Club Lounge, a Library with meeting rooms and teleconferencing facilities.
Also in the complex is Himalayas Art Museum, DaGuan Theatre with multi-functional auditorium seating 1,650 and shopping mall.
Zendai Hotel Yin is close to the city’s main financial district in Pudong, adjacent to the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, and just minutes from the city’s high speed Maglev for fast transfers to and from Pudong International Airport (and eventually Hongqiao International Airport).
Admittance to the The Leading Small Hotels of the World is a "prestigious achievement for the entire hotel team", said Ms. Huang.
For over 80 years, The Leading Hotels of the World has been promoting hotels and resorts of only the highest quality.
Their exclusive list of over 450 hotels is painstakingly inspected every year to ensure they maintain utmost standards. Members include such celebrated hotels as The Ritz London and Trump International Hotel and Tower, New York.
More information on The Leading Hotels of the World is at the website www.lhw.com.
Zendai Hotel Yin’s website is www.zendaihotels.com.
"The Leading Hotels of the World Welcomes Three New Member Hotels in the Asia Pacific"
(HONG KONG December 1st , 2009) – The Leading Hotels of the World is pleased to announce the introduction of three new luxurious member hotels from Asia Pacific, further enhancing its rich, global portfolio of iconic, independent hotels:
The Chateau Star River is located in the Pearl River area of Guangzhou, China. Adjacent to the Panyu Bridge, it is just minutes from the cultural heart of the city. The hotel brings a classic Royal European style to the river bank; its architecture inspired by the castles and palaces that line the Mediterranean Sea.
At 20 floors high, the first four floors feature leisure and recreational facilities, while floors 5 to 20 are dedicated to 205 guest rooms and 111 suites and an Executive Club Lounge. All guest accommodation is sumptuously decorated and fitted with all the amenities required by today’s international travelers. A variety of dining options offers a range of popular local and international cuisines: Always Cantonese, serving authentic Cantonese dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner; E-Café, offering Western-style dining; Chuan Kitchen, specializing in Szechuan cuisine; the fine dining Chateau Grill, featuring gourmet French specialties; Lobby Bar for afternoon tea; and a Wine and Cigar bar. Leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, sauna, fitness center, tennis courts and a nightclub. Meeting and conference facilities can accommodate up to 950 people. For more information, visit http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?id=982
Located in the heart of Australia’s Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is already hailed Australia’s most environmentally responsible tourist destination.
Built around a restored rural homestead dating back to 1822, the resort is set within its own private conservation and nature reserve allowing for unique experiences and insights into Australia’s wildlife, history and cultural heritage. It features individual suites with private decks and swimming pools, separate living and sleeping areas, and double-sided fireplaces. Great attention to detail has been paid to ensure the fixtures and fittings are reminiscent of the Federation period and suites feature thoughtful extras, such as binoculars, allowing guests to get up close and personal with the wildlife.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the main homestead. The Country Kitchen serves lunch and informal meals throughout the day, while The Valley Bar & Terrace offer panoramic views of the Wolgan Valley below. For leisure, there are guided walks, four-wheel drive safaris, horseback riding, and aboriginal interpretative tours, a swimming pool, gymnasium, and sauna, as well as The Timeless Spa offering a range of relaxation and beauty therapies. There are also private meeting and conference rooms for up to 50 people. For more information, see http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?id=1000.
Surrounded by 30 acres of lush rainforest, Capella Singapore is Sentosa Island’s premier resort destination, combining the best of old and new Singapore.
The flagship property for Capella Hotels and Resorts in Asia offers an inspiring natural setting while offering easy access to Singapore’s vibrant financial and shopping districts. From arrival to departure, guests enjoy intuitive and uncompromising service: Personal Assistants expertly handle guests’ needs and private chauffeur service is available via the hotel’s Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The 112 guestrooms include two Colonial Manors, one and two bedroom pool suites with private plunge pools, private outdoor showers and bathtubs, suites and premier rooms. In addition, Capella Singapore will offer the option of extended stays with full access to the hotel’s facilities via The Club at Capella Singapore. Long stay accommodation offers 72 sea-facing suites and duplexes and 9 manors with private pools. Every suite and pool suite has been attentively designed by leading international interior designer, Jaya Ibrahim, in his signature contemporary Asian style.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities for relaxation or business: Cassia, a fine-dining Chinese restaurant, The Knolls all-day dining restaurant and Bob’s Bar; an Auriga Spa and Fitness Centre; three meeting rooms; a business centre with two boardrooms, a signature Capella Club Lounge, three cascading outdoor pools and a world-class sculpture garden. For more information, see http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?propertyid=1002
The Chateau Star River is located in the Pearl River area of Guangzhou, China. Adjacent to the Panyu Bridge, it is just minutes from the cultural heart of the city. The hotel brings a classic Royal European style to the river bank; its architecture inspired by the castles and palaces that line the Mediterranean Sea.
At 20 floors high, the first four floors feature leisure and recreational facilities, while floors 5 to 20 are dedicated to 205 guest rooms and 111 suites and an Executive Club Lounge. All guest accommodation is sumptuously decorated and fitted with all the amenities required by today’s international travelers. A variety of dining options offers a range of popular local and international cuisines: Always Cantonese, serving authentic Cantonese dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner; E-Café, offering Western-style dining; Chuan Kitchen, specializing in Szechuan cuisine; the fine dining Chateau Grill, featuring gourmet French specialties; Lobby Bar for afternoon tea; and a Wine and Cigar bar. Leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, sauna, fitness center, tennis courts and a nightclub. Meeting and conference facilities can accommodate up to 950 people. For more information, visit http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?id=982
Located in the heart of Australia’s Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is already hailed Australia’s most environmentally responsible tourist destination.
Built around a restored rural homestead dating back to 1822, the resort is set within its own private conservation and nature reserve allowing for unique experiences and insights into Australia’s wildlife, history and cultural heritage. It features individual suites with private decks and swimming pools, separate living and sleeping areas, and double-sided fireplaces. Great attention to detail has been paid to ensure the fixtures and fittings are reminiscent of the Federation period and suites feature thoughtful extras, such as binoculars, allowing guests to get up close and personal with the wildlife.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the main homestead. The Country Kitchen serves lunch and informal meals throughout the day, while The Valley Bar & Terrace offer panoramic views of the Wolgan Valley below. For leisure, there are guided walks, four-wheel drive safaris, horseback riding, and aboriginal interpretative tours, a swimming pool, gymnasium, and sauna, as well as The Timeless Spa offering a range of relaxation and beauty therapies. There are also private meeting and conference rooms for up to 50 people. For more information, see http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?id=1000.
Surrounded by 30 acres of lush rainforest, Capella Singapore is Sentosa Island’s premier resort destination, combining the best of old and new Singapore.
The flagship property for Capella Hotels and Resorts in Asia offers an inspiring natural setting while offering easy access to Singapore’s vibrant financial and shopping districts. From arrival to departure, guests enjoy intuitive and uncompromising service: Personal Assistants expertly handle guests’ needs and private chauffeur service is available via the hotel’s Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The 112 guestrooms include two Colonial Manors, one and two bedroom pool suites with private plunge pools, private outdoor showers and bathtubs, suites and premier rooms. In addition, Capella Singapore will offer the option of extended stays with full access to the hotel’s facilities via The Club at Capella Singapore. Long stay accommodation offers 72 sea-facing suites and duplexes and 9 manors with private pools. Every suite and pool suite has been attentively designed by leading international interior designer, Jaya Ibrahim, in his signature contemporary Asian style.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities for relaxation or business: Cassia, a fine-dining Chinese restaurant, The Knolls all-day dining restaurant and Bob’s Bar; an Auriga Spa and Fitness Centre; three meeting rooms; a business centre with two boardrooms, a signature Capella Club Lounge, three cascading outdoor pools and a world-class sculpture garden. For more information, see http://www.lhw.com/property.aspx?propertyid=1002
The Shilla Seoul Again Voted South Korea’s Top Hotel
A climb of more than 20 Places in the annual ‘Institutional Investor’ survey of the ‘World’s Top 100 Hotels’ places The Shilla in premier position in Seoul
(Hong Kong, December 1, 2009) -- South Korea's premier 5-star hotel, The Shilla Seoul, has again been ranked among the ‘World's Top 100 Hotels 2009’ by the prestigious international finance and investment magazine, Institutional Investor.
Seoul's premier address was voted 58th this year up from 80th last year, by the highly influential international luxury travel poll.
The ranking was from a survey of 150 senior executives from the United States, Asia and Europe, voting on 5-star hotels providing top class services in 74 cities worldwide. The Shilla made a significant improvement on last year’s position of 80th.
Included in the world’s Top 100 hotels for the third consecutive year, The Shilla was No 1 in South Korea, ranked alongside Peninsula New York and Arts Barcelona.
The Institutional Investor poll was topped by Four Seasons Milan, Grand Hyatt Shanghai and Park Hyatt Paris–Vendôme.
The Shilla’s achievement follows an extensive makeover creating a "lifestyle destination" with dramatically improved shopping, dining, health and beauty, wedding, conference and business facilities.
General Manager Mr. Junghwan Kim said: “Being consistently appreciated by the readers of Institutional Investor is a reward for the dedication of our loyal staff and their commitment to providing our guests with the very highest standards of service and hospitality.”
Featuring 465 rooms, Shilla Seoul is an affiliate of the Samsung Corporation and member of the prestigious, The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Shilla’s refurbishment includes one of only two Guerlain Spas in Asia and the world renowned anti-aging clinic, La Clinique de Paris.
A prestigious new shopping arcade showcases around 20 world-famous brand name boutiques, high profile Korean labels and famed London 'florist to the stars' Paula Pryke.
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.
About Shilla Hotels & Resorts
The Shilla is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2009 as one of Asia’s most admired hotel groups.
The affiliate of Korean electronics giant Samsung Group owns two deluxe properties, The Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju, on the resort island of Jeju. Both are members of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Shilla Seoul is consistently voted South Korea’s top hotel by influential publications, ranked among the ‘World's Best Hotels’ by Institutional Investor and World’s Top 500 by Travel + Leisure. It is also consistently on Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List of the ‘World’s Best Places to Stay’.
The Shilla brand has extended beyond South Korea with the management of Jinji Lake Shilla Hotel, a new luxury hotel in Suzhou, China.
For information and reservations at The Shilla Hotels & Resorts, contact: (82-2) 2230-3310 Fax: (82-2) 2230-3720. Or The Shilla’s Tokyo Office Tel: (81) 3-3586-7571 Fax: (81) 3 -3586-7360 or your travel agent or the nearest reservations office of The Leading Hotels of the World.
For more information on The Shilla hotels, visit www.shilla.net.
(Hong Kong, December 1, 2009) -- South Korea's premier 5-star hotel, The Shilla Seoul, has again been ranked among the ‘World's Top 100 Hotels 2009’ by the prestigious international finance and investment magazine, Institutional Investor.
Seoul's premier address was voted 58th this year up from 80th last year, by the highly influential international luxury travel poll.
The ranking was from a survey of 150 senior executives from the United States, Asia and Europe, voting on 5-star hotels providing top class services in 74 cities worldwide. The Shilla made a significant improvement on last year’s position of 80th.
Included in the world’s Top 100 hotels for the third consecutive year, The Shilla was No 1 in South Korea, ranked alongside Peninsula New York and Arts Barcelona.
The Institutional Investor poll was topped by Four Seasons Milan, Grand Hyatt Shanghai and Park Hyatt Paris–Vendôme.
The Shilla’s achievement follows an extensive makeover creating a "lifestyle destination" with dramatically improved shopping, dining, health and beauty, wedding, conference and business facilities.
General Manager Mr. Junghwan Kim said: “Being consistently appreciated by the readers of Institutional Investor is a reward for the dedication of our loyal staff and their commitment to providing our guests with the very highest standards of service and hospitality.”
Featuring 465 rooms, Shilla Seoul is an affiliate of the Samsung Corporation and member of the prestigious, The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Shilla’s refurbishment includes one of only two Guerlain Spas in Asia and the world renowned anti-aging clinic, La Clinique de Paris.
A prestigious new shopping arcade showcases around 20 world-famous brand name boutiques, high profile Korean labels and famed London 'florist to the stars' Paula Pryke.
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.
About Shilla Hotels & Resorts
The Shilla is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2009 as one of Asia’s most admired hotel groups.
The affiliate of Korean electronics giant Samsung Group owns two deluxe properties, The Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju, on the resort island of Jeju. Both are members of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Shilla Seoul is consistently voted South Korea’s top hotel by influential publications, ranked among the ‘World's Best Hotels’ by Institutional Investor and World’s Top 500 by Travel + Leisure. It is also consistently on Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List of the ‘World’s Best Places to Stay’.
The Shilla brand has extended beyond South Korea with the management of Jinji Lake Shilla Hotel, a new luxury hotel in Suzhou, China.
For information and reservations at The Shilla Hotels & Resorts, contact: (82-2) 2230-3310 Fax: (82-2) 2230-3720. Or The Shilla’s Tokyo Office Tel: (81) 3-3586-7571 Fax: (81) 3 -3586-7360 or your travel agent or the nearest reservations office of The Leading Hotels of the World.
For more information on The Shilla hotels, visit www.shilla.net.
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