On Thursdays we only do two things; have steak at the pub and read the Big Fat Hotel Wrap. Although our boss isn’t thrilled about this habit.

First upscale brand to open in the heart of Tokyo for AccorHotels

Pullman Tokyo Tamachi is being developed as part of the MSB Tamachi mixed-used complex and will open for the fall of 2018. Featuring 143 rooms, the contemporary designed hotel successfully connects the international style of Pullman with a delicate touch of Japanese art and culture.

This business and leisure hotel includes meeting facilities and unique dining concepts. The hotel is directly connected to the JR Tamachi Station east exit and a three-minute walk from the Toei Subway Mita Line. From the hotel to the Haneda International Airport is about 30 mins by public transport and just one stop from JR Shinagawa station to Osaka and Kyoto via bullet train.

“Japan keeps attracting more and more international travellers, with historically high growth rate recorded in the beginning of 2017,” said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer for Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia, AccorHotels.

“The increasing inbound market, especially from Korea and other Asian countries (China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam) is on a continuous positive trend which will be amplified as the country will benefit from the worldwide attention with the upcoming 2020 Summer Olympic Games.”

Pullman Hotels & Resorts, AccorHotels’ new generation of upscale hotels, is a cosmopolitan brand that offers hyper-connected travelers a seamless experience that combines contemporary  design and energizing culinary concepts.

“The opening of Pullman Tokyo Tamachi marks an exciting step in developing more upscale and luxury hotels in Japan to meet the growing demand of cosmopolitan travellers who appreciate innovative design and wellness in the travel scene.

“The global nomad is Pullman’s representation of the new generation of travellers and business leaders who fully and naturally blend work and leisure,” said Eric D’Ignazio, Vice President Japan, AccorHotels.

MANTRA HOTEL AT SYDNEY AIRPORT PRE-OPENING SPECIAL

Be among the first to experience Sydney’s newest airport hotel with Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport’s opening special of $159* per night in a Studio King room including 1GB of internet access daily, a welcome drink voucher on arrival and room upgrade (subject to availability).

Welcoming its first guests from July 19, Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport will feature 136 contemporary studio rooms, a restaurant and bar, and an integrated lobby and reception space.

Conveniently-located close to the domestic airport and its terminals, the nine-level new build hotel will be a contemporary iteration of an airport experience, featuring a 24/7 atmosphere and service, express check-out, internet kiosk, and a relaxed dining and service culture.

Airport-facing rooms located on the fourth floor and above also boast impressive views of the domestic and international airport runways as well as the premium arrivals section of the airport where all VIP charter jets park.

The hotel’s dynamic restaurant and bar will distinguish it as a standout in the area, serving a bold provincial menu, featuring the finest regional NSW beef and sustainably-sourced local seafood, served with local draught beer, wines and handcrafted cocktails.

Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport is located at 3 Ross Smith Avenue, just a short distance from Sydney Airport’s T2 and T3 domestic terminals.

Daydream Island Increases Redevelopment Investment to $65 million

Daydream Island Resort and Spa has announced that it will increase its substantial renovation investment by more than $15 million to a total of over $65 million as it begins finalising its refurbishment plans.

The increased investment commitment by the island’s owners includes funding for a new marina.

The resort has previously announced that it is bringing forward its refurbishment plans following the closure of the resort due to the substantial damage caused in March by Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

The significant refurbishment will see major infrastructure upgrades including accommodation refurbishments as well as renovations to existing attractions and installation of new features which will transform Daydream into an upscale 4½ star world-class resort.

Daydream Island Resort General Manager Dawson Tang said, “The cleanup has progressed well and we’re hoping to begin major works late this year.

“The increased investment by our owners reflects their wish to bring Daydream Island back to its spectacular best and ensure the island’s infrastructure is upgraded to support operations well into the future.”

It is anticipated that the newly refurbished Daydream Island Resort and Spa will be opening for guests in mid-2018.

Major works already announced will include redevelopment of the Arrivals pavilion, Reception, main Atrium area, Waterfalls restaurant, Lagoons bar, all room types and Mermaids Restaurant. Additionally, the Lovers Cove function area will be expanded and a new Asian-inspired restaurant will be built.

The resort’s conference facilities will also be significantly revamped and expanded.

Aussie agents score up to 20 per cent off stays with Oaks Hotels & Resorts

Oaks Hotels & Resorts, a division of Minor Hotels, is pleased to offer Travel Agents, Airline Staff and other Industry Professionals easy access to ‘industry rates’, offering a saving of up to 20 per cent across its hotel portfolio worldwide as it launches a new industry initiative.

Industry staff can now access discounted accommodation on all personal travel at a choice of 56 hotels and resorts spanning popular leisure and CBD destinations in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South and Western Australia, and the Northern Territory, as well as Queenstown, New Zealand; Bangkok, Thailand; Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; and Bodhgaya, India.

For industry staff wanting to access quick and easy discounted rates for their upcoming personal travel, this is a great option with accommodation conveniently bookable via the Oaks Hotels & Resorts website. In addition, Oaks offers customised industry rates for those travelling within the next 30 days; simply email or call Oaks Hotels & Resorts to see if an increased discounted rate can be offered.

Savings of up to 20 per cent are applicable on all ‘Best Flexible’ and ‘Bed & Breakfast’ rates and can be redeemed on oakshotels.com by using promotion code ‘TRADE’. Bookings are subject to availability and blackout dates may apply.

Please note, guests must present proof of employment via company stamped letter from their human resources department, including contact information, or present a valid employee ID, showing company affiliation, photo, and employee number.

GIANT BUGS SWARM MANTRA AS MUSEUMS VICTORIA PARTNERSHIP IS BORN

Critters from Melbourne Museum’s latest show, Bug Lab: Little Bugs, Super Powers, were seen checking in at Mantra on the Park in Melbourne yesterday after a brand new partnership was formed between Museums Victoria and Mantra.

The exhibition, which debuts in Melbourne on 23 June and is scheduled to run for four months, uses ultra-detailed, large-scale models (pictured) to explore the secret life of insects and their genius ways.

To celebrate Mantra’s newfound status as Museums Victoria’s Preferred Accommodation Supplier, Mantra on the Park has created a special ‘The Bug Lab Package’. Stay from $255* per night in a One Bedroom Apartment and receive two adult tickets to Bug Lab, buffet breakfast for two, onsite car parking and Wi-Fi. Or, bring the whole family and stay in a spacious self-contained Two Bedroom Apartment from $289* per night including a family pass to Bug Lab, breakfast for two adults and two children, car parking and Wi-Fi. To book, visit www.mantra.com.au/onthepark or call 13 15 17.

TRYP launches new room offer

Sleep with a friend – without sharing a bed – in TRYP Fortitude Valley Hotel, Brisbane’s brand new twin rooms.

As Brisbane’s only street art hotel, nestled amidst the Valley’s vibrant cultural precinct and close to iconic bars, restaurants, galleries and other attractions, TRYP Fortitude Valley is one of the coolest places to crash in the city.

To complement the queen and king rooms already available, twin rooms have been added so groups, families and platonic pairs can sleep comfortably without compromising on personal space.

“The new twin rooms were born following the demand from our customers and an increase in groups and families looking for unique accommodation in the heart of the city,” said Kim Moon, Executive Assistant Manager at TRYP Fortitude Valley.

“Our group bookings are on the rise and we’ve had strong interest from bands, buck’s and hen’s nights, and family groups.”

Boasting king beds that split into two king singles, the twin rooms also feature coffee pod machines, interactive LSP televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi and striking artwork by acclaimed street artists.

As well as stylish and well-appointed accommodation, TRYP Fortitude Valley offers impeccable service and a host of state-of-the-art facilities including an onsite gym, meeting room, UP on Constance rooftop bar and delicious burger restaurant Chur.

Prices for twin rooms start at $169 or $202 per night including breakfast for two people.

CELEBRATE “SIXTY DAYS OF SUMMER” AT SPG RESORTS IN HAWAII

From Poipu to Kona and Waikiki to Kaanapali, Hawaii is the perfect destination for a summer vacation getaway. Hawaii offers more to do, more to see, and more to experience with activities, events, music, and food festivals to please every palate.

In celebration of the summer season, Hawaii resorts in the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) portfolio will kick off “Sixty Days of Summer” from June 16 to August 14, 2017, with dozens of can’t-miss activities, events and experiences that will leave indelible memories to last throughout the year.

SPG is one of Marriott International’s award-winning loyalty programs. In Hawaii there are 12 SPG resorts on four islands representing the Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis and Luxury Collection brands, with something new to offer visitors every day this summer.

Looking for mini-adventures that will keep the kids engaged and spark a sense of wonder in their young minds? The Westin Maui Resort & Spa’s Westin Family program offers a kids’ club, photo safaris, net fishing, Wipe-Out Wednesday beach play and other exploration activities.

Hoping to rejuvenate the body and mind? The new Nanea Ritual at Spa Helani, a Heavenly Spa by Westin at The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas, is designed to create a blissful state of relaxation, or nanea in Hawaiian.

Have a sweet tooth? Indulge in beachside s’mores, island style, at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa’s beachfront fire pits. Try the local s’mores kit, which comes packed with Island treats like macadamia nut pieces, coconut flakes, li hing mui sugar, bananas, pineapple, and s’more.

Seeking the ultimate underwater adventure? Head to the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay to dive with the majestic giant manta rays.

Hungry for a truly authentic taste of the Islands? He ‘Aina Ola (A Nourishing Feast), a partnership between The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas and the Waipā Foundation, combines Kauai’s culture and cuisine in a one-of-a-kind farm tour and culinary experience.

Yearning for a more traditional Hawaiian experience? The oceanfront ‘Aha’aina Luau at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, held every Monday and Thursday, provides a cultural journey of the Islands through music, dance and food

Outrigger Resorts celebrates World Oceans Month

Outrigger Resorts is kicking off World Oceans Month with enough coral planted, monitored and protected to cover approximately 100 football fields’ worth of coral since the 2015 launch of its global conservation initiative, OZONE (Outrigger’s ZONE).

In response to more than 60 per cent of the world’s reefs depleting and under immediate threat from climate change, land-based pollution and unsustainable fishing, Outrigger’s OZONE conservation program encourages guests to become part of the solution.

Coral planting in Fiji, snorkeling with a resident marine biologist in Maldives, viewing the ocean through a glass bottom boat in Mauritius, swimming with sea turtles in Hawaii, visiting a marine rehabilitation center in Thailand, and walking through an underwater aquarium tunnel in Guam are a sample of the hands-on educational opportunities offered year-round for Outrigger guests.

This June, throughout World Oceans Month, Outrigger Resorts properties worldwide are offering a diverse range of immersive activities and conservation opportunities for Outrigger guests to get in the OZONE mind-set and make a difference, even while on vacation.

Highlights from each destination include:

• Hawaii: Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort and Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort will feature live Hawaiian music, educational exhibits, games and more at the Waikiki Aquarium on June 24.
• Visitors of the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort are invited to visit and partake in an educational tour at the Phuket Aquarium and the Phuket Marine Biological Center, a rehabilitation center for turtles and other marine life that have been injured by debris, as well as participate in a local beach cleanup. Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort will be planting coconut trees and doing a beach cleanup.
• Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort will host an educational workshop for building and then sinking “fish houses” made of transplanted coral, which will become a coral nursery and attract a number of fish and other marine life over time. Castaway Island, Fiji will host a butterfly fish count, coastal tree planting, sunset kayak and night snorkel for guests.
• Outrigger Guam Beach Resort is adjacent to and supports UnderWater World – Guam’s popular aquarium that teaches about the island’s vibrant sea life with a spectacular walk-through glass tunnel. The property will have a beach cleanup and mini fair with educational outreach, ocean crafts, raffle drawings and face painting.
• Those visiting Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort can participate in a coral restoration workshop with the resident marine biologist, have some fun with a special #worldoceansday selfie stand with props and join in family activities available through the resort.
• Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort will offer educational activities and glass bottom boat tours for guests to discover the beauty of various coral gardens in the lagoon in front of the resort.

Winner of Golden Ticket competition for Sydney’s hottest hotel opening of 2017 announced

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has announced Shane Rogers, from Kensington NSW, as the winner of the Golden Ticket of a lifetime, live on Sunrise this morning. The exclusive giveaway was created in celebration of the upcoming opening of Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, the most anticipated luxury hotel of the millennium.

Accompanied by hosts David Koch and Samantha Armytage and with the set elegantly styled by Coco Republic, Greg Brady, the General Manager of Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour proudly presented the winning ticket to Shane Edwards and his fiancé before a Sabrage expert popped a bottle of Cristal.

In what’s cause for celebration, Shane entered the competition by making a booking at AccorHotels.com for accommodation on his wedding night. He said, “My wife-to-be and I were so surprised when we found out we were the winners! This is the best wedding present we could have asked for and it will be wonderful to share all of these amazing Sydney experiences together”.

The Golden Ticket comprises nine double pass tickets to events and quintessential Sydney experiences for two people. Some of the key events include tickets to the Russian National Ballet: Romeo and Juliet at the State Theatre, passes to Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb, a private helicopter flight over Sydney, and New Year’s Eve accommodation in the Prestige Suite at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Tank Stream Hotel launches Sydney Sunday Super Saver deal 

Sydney’s newest international hotel, The Tank Stream Hotel Sydney, is offering the best value package available for stays in the heart of the city – the Sydney Sunday Super Saver package, with up to 50 per cent off bed and breakfast rates on Sundays.

The Sydney Sunday Super Saver package includes overnight accommodation on a Sunday in an Atrium Room, breakfast for two in Le Petit Flot restaurant, free mini bar items, free high-speed wifi, free in-room movies and Nespresso coffee and T2 tea from just $179 per room. The special Sunday rate is available till 30 September 2017, subject to availability. Bookings direct to the hotel.

The rate represents a saving of up to 50 per cent compared to usual Saturday and mid-week rates, and has the added advantage of being on a day when public transport throughout Sydney is just $2.50 for any number of journeys – trains, buses and ferries – across the day.

General Manager of the Tank Stream Hotel, Klaus Kinateder, said that the deal was ideal for a quick break in Sydney, especially for people living outside Sydney who want to enjoy the city’s attractions over the weekend, without paying a fortune.

“Sunday stays offer so many advantages: accommodation is almost half the price of Saturday nights, it’s more relaxed, all the shops are open, and for $2.50 you can catch a return ferry from near-by Circular Quay to Watson’s Bay or Manly, have a long lunch by the waterside, then come back to the hotel and watch free in-house movies while enjoying all our complimentary in-room services,” said Kinateder.

Located on the corner of Pitt and Hunter Streets, next to Wynyard, the 4.5 star Tank Stream Hotel is one of Sydney’s best located hotels, just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Hyde Park, The Rocks and Barangaroo, with trains, buses and ferries just minutes away from the hotel.

A perfect base for short and longer stays in Sydney, the Tank Stream Hotel is surrounded by many of city’s most celebrated restaurants, along with theatres, entertainment venues and the city’s finest shopping. The hotel can also arrange discounted access to nearby fitness centres and parking.

Airbnb Introducers New Product Features

Airbnb is today rolling out a new set of tools that improve the Instant Book process for both hosts and guests, including new check-in settings, improved calendar control to avoid double bookings and more.

Rather than message a host to request to book a certain listing, Instant Book lets guests simply choose travel dates, book a preferred listing, and then discuss the trip and arrival details with their host. Since launching Instant Book in 2014, Airbnb has seen the feature improve experiences for both guests and hosts on the platform.

Today, 1.7 million listings on Airbnb are instantly bookable. When hosts bring new listings to Airbnb, the company is seeing even more growth: 70 per cent of new listings on Airbnb have hosts using Instant Book from the very beginning.

Guests love it too, so much so that 60 per cent of bookings by guests are now secured with Instant Book.

More information about the new tools can be found here.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo Celebrates Italy’s Feast of St John

Looking out over the sparkling blue waters of Lake Como in the north of Italy, the luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo is the place to celebrate this year’s traditional Feast of St John (La Festa di San Giovanni) on the 24th of June.

In honour of the centuries-old festival, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo – at 107 years old, an authentic Art Nouveau palace with a glorious history of opulence and grandeur – is offering its guests a special ‘Traditional Lake Como Experience’.

Guests are invited to view the spectacular St John’s festival fireworks and music show at Isola Comacina, an historical small wooded island on Lake Como, just south of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Transport to the island from the hotel is on-board a private boat while enjoying an early evening cocktail.

The fireworks will light up Comacina island as well as the splendid bay of Zoca de l’oli. It is a symbolic and unique experience that only happens on this midsummer’s eve each year, and is not to be missed by visitors to Lake Como.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s special offer includes:
• Two nights’ stay in a Grand Hotel Tremezzo luxury accommodation of your choice
• Daily buffet breakfast served in the hotel’s restaurant La Terrazza overlooking the lake
• Return transfer in a private boat from the hotel to Isola Comacina, with welcome cocktail on-board, on the 24th of June
• Traditional fireworks and music show dedicated to St John on Isola Comacina
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

The offer requires a minimum stay of two nights and is valid for stays from the 22nd to the 25th of June, 2017. It is subject to availability at the time of reservation and may be prolonged at favourable rate, and some restrictions may apply. Rates from €1315 (AUD$1990) for a Lake View Deluxe room.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Season Finale with Venetian Spectacular Grand Ball

Belmond has curated a one-off glamourous spectacular from 2-4 November 2017, combining a journey on the iconic train from London or Paris to Venice, with a two-night stay at legendary Belmond Hotel Cipriani, culminating in a lavish Grand Ball.

The Grand Ball invites guests to step into a world of Venetian extravagance at Palazzi Contarini degli Scrigni where they make their entrance in custom-made finery, fitted by the team at Belmond Hotel Cipriani.

On arrival, cutting edge canapes are served by waiting staff in flamboyant guises and traditional Venetian musicians and Aerial silk performers keep the magic alive, while guests indulge in cocktails and a sumptuous Venetian-inspired three-course dinner.

Dancing will continue late into the evening before water taxis spirit guests back to Belmond Hotel Cipriani for a blissful night’s sleep.

The three-night package from 2-4 November 2017 includes an overnight journey from London to Venice aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a two-night stay at Belmond Hotel Cipriani and Grand Ball costume fitting, entrance, drinks, dinner and entertainment and starts from £5,370 per person, subject to availability.

The package includes:

• One night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express luxury train
• Dedicated steward service
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Three-course lunch
• Afternoon tea, including sandwiches, cakes and pastries
• Sumptuous four-course dinner: Seasonal table table d’hôte menu, including cheeseboard, biscuits and chutneys
• Coffee, tea and petits fours
• Continental breakfast served in guest’s cabin
• Two-night stay at Belmond Hotel Cipriani, including breakfast
• Transfers from the train station to the hotel
• Venetian costumes and fittings
• Evening aperitifs at Belmond Hotel Cipriani prior to the Grand Ball
• Entrance to the Grand Ball, including transfers, drinks, dinner and entertainment

MANTRA GROUP HELPS GUESTS KEEP THEIR HEADS ABOVE WATER

Guest safety across Mantra Group’s 55 Queensland hotels and resorts has been taken to a new level with the hotel and resort operator partnering with Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) to help save lives along the Queensland coastline.

The partnership is a crucial step towards the goal of reducing preventable deaths in Queensland waters to zero.

Mantra Group Chief Operating Officer Tomas Johnsson said the formal alliance focusses on educating guests about water and surf safety.

“With many of our Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree properties located along the Queensland coastline, it is our responsibility to raise water safety awareness and to especially let our international guests know the only place to swim in the surf is between the flags,” said Mr Johnsson.

“Surf Life Saving Queensland is one of the largest volunteer-based community service organisations in Australia.

“We are trying to help the more than 30,000 members volunteering at surf clubs all over the state by spreading the surf safety message and striving towards zero preventable deaths in Queensland public waters.”

SLSQ Chief Executive Officer John Brennan OAM said the organisation is proud to be partnering with Mantra Group to help spread the surf safety message.

“Our volunteer surf lifesavers and professional lifeguards do an outstanding job each year, watching over and protecting millions of beachgoers, but they couldn’t do it without the crucial support of our partners such as Mantra Group,” said Mr Brennan.

“We’re really pleased and proud to be partnering with Mantra Group to spread the surf safety message and, ultimately, help reduce drownings along Queensland’s coastline.

“Our overarching vision as an organisation is to eliminate drowning deaths across Queensland and we see this partnership playing a key role in helping to achieve that moving forward.”