Category Archives: Housekeeping

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), is expanding its presence in China with the opening of its third property in Shenzhen.Tan Tze Shang, Ascott’s Managing Director for China, said: “Known as the new Silicon Valley, Shenzhen is one of the world’s top innovation hubs and home to high-tech companies from all over the world, including new-tech giants such as Huawei, ZTE and Tencent. With the addition of Ascott Raffles City Shenzhen, Ascott now has more than 900 units across five serviced residences in one of China’s most competitive cities with high demand for accommodation. Out of the five properties, three are in operation while two more will open next year. Given its strategic location connecting prominent financial centres, proximity to transportation networks and being part of an integrated development under the iconic Raffles City brand, Ascott Raffles City Shenzhen offers business executives and leisure travellers the convenience of a one-stop work, retail and recreational destination.” In China, three other properties which are part of the Raffles City-branded integrated developments include Ascott Raffles City Beijing and Ascott Raffles City Chengdu, both of which are already operational, as well as Ascott Raffles City Hangzhou which is slated to open in 3Q 2018. He added: “China is Ascott’s fastest-growing and largest market, with more than 18,000 units in over 100 properties across 29 Chinese cities. Its increasing attractiveness for foreign investment and growing domestic business travel market has fuelled a strong demand for international-class serviced residences. The Chinese market makes up Ascott’s top customers at our properties globally with revenue surging by 35% year-on-year.” “Besides forming strategic alliances with property developers and capital partners, we also partnered new economy leaders such as Tujia and Alibaba’s …

The introduction of residences to AVANI Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio redefines hospitality as it appeals to both leisure and business travellers looking for an international upscale hotel experience served in a private apartment. Now open, AVANI Metropolis Residences offer a stylish city retreat with 65 contemporary, upscale residences available in one and two bedroom configurations. Guests can enjoy all the comforts of home in the heart of Auckland, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. AVANI Metropolis Auckland Residences take urban living to a new level, featuring an open plan well equipped kitchen, lounge and dining room, laundry facilities, complimentary WiFi, grocery delivery services and a thoughtful selection of high-tech comforts. Several residences also boast private balconies. When it comes to recharging, relaxing and working out, AVANI Metropolis Auckland Residences has a superb range of leisure facilities including, a 22 metre heated indoor swimming pool & Jacuzzi, sauna and high-class fitness centre. Guests will also have access to AVANI’s signature ‘Forget Me Not’ amenities, a service designed to take the stress out of leaving any essentials behind. From yoga mats to GHD hair straighteners, international power adaptors, and sewing and dental kits. Located on Kitchener Street, AVANI Metropolis Auckland Residences connects guests with Auckland’s myriad attractions and experiences; from where to find home-grown fashion labels, to the best eateries and mixologists, AVANI has all its guests covered. Auckland is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Epicureans will be in heaven whilst dining at one of the many speakeasies and “hatted’ restaurants. Gourmet markets are another stand out feature of the city. Head to the lively La Cigale French Market in nearby Britomart Street on Saturday or Sunday …

Wyndham Hotel Group has announced the signing of the largest hotel development in the Brickell district of Miami to its managed hotel portfolio: a new 445-room, dual-branded hotel leveraging a never-before-seen combination of the Wyndham Grand and TRYP by Wyndham brands. The combination of brands celebrates Miami’s distinct spirit – both the upper-upscale Wyndham Grand brand and select-service, lifestyle TRYP by Wyndham brands embrace the charm and character of the local destination – incorporating Miami style into each brand’s’unique elements and enabling travelers to stay the way they want in one of the most diverse cities in the world. Owned by Brazilian developer Galwan and designed by award-winning firm Aquitechtonica, the agreement comprises 445 guest rooms in Miami’s trendy Brickell neighborhood. The hotel, expected to open in late 2019, is the first U.S. development for Galwan, one of the largest residential and hotel developers in Brazil. “With nearly 16 million visitors last year and projected increases for the years ahead, Miami continues to be one of the world’s most coveted travel destinations with a style all its own,” said Mark Kukulski, president of Wyndham Hotel Group’s management organization. “By combining our most worldly, destination-centric brands, we’re offering travelers a taste of Wyndham Hotel Group, Miami-style – with chic shared spaces, trendy dining options and their choice of brand experience via TRYP by Wyndham’s lifestyle flair or Wyndham Grand’s easy elegance.” Two Brands, One Destination Today, nearly 400 dual-branded hotels are open or under construction in the U.S. That number is projected to grow at a rapid pace over the next several years as travelers seek personalized experiences – the choice of brands allows guests to customize their trip without sacrificing …

AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas opens its doors on southern Thailand’s Gulf Coast. Hua Hin is known as a popular getaway for Bangkok residents and is historically a favourite with the Thai Royal family. Surrounded by lush gardens and facing on to a large lagoon pool, the 196 guest rooms, suites and villas offer comfortable and relaxing accommodation. Superior and Deluxe Guest Rooms feature a private balcony and Villas and Suites have either a plunge pool or Jacuzzi and gazebo. Bathtubs and separate walk-in showers make for indulgent moments, while the outdoor rainforest shower in select suites encourages guests to stay in touch with nature. The eleven One-Bedroom and two Two-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villas have direct access to the main pool and are ideal for a group of friends or a large family wanting to be part of the resort action, but also having a private space to enjoy each other’s company. Reserve all villas to secure ultra-exclusivity for your wedding party or family for a special occasion. Culinary experiences celebrate authentic Thai dishes, rustic Italian flavours and international fare with an emphasis on fresh local produce. The all-day dining restaurant Staas serves international favourites and local dishes and delicious coastal Italian cuisine can be enjoyed at Brezza. A hotspot highlight of the resort will be the opening the Jazz Lounge on New Year’s Eve. The Tapas and Mezze menu, great cocktails and live music will appeal guests and visitors. An oasis of pampering awaits at AVANISPA, where trained therapists administer indulgent modern treatments to restore body, mind and spirit. The spa features nine treatment rooms including two couple’s treatment rooms and an authentic Hammam where guests can enjoy …

Westin Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its portfolio with the opening of its eighth hotel in India, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat. The second hotel in Kolkata & East India under the Marriott International portfolio and the first under the Westin Hotels & Resorts umbrella, the property is set to bring the brand’s signature well-being offerings, empowering guests to be their best selves on the road. Located 8 kilometers from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and a kilometer away from the International Convention Centre, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat distinguishes itself with the globally-acclaimed Westin experience of superb facilities, delicious cuisine, innovative wellness initiatives and tailored services, offering an invigorating environment and personal tranquility. The Face of Spirituality, a 105 ft mural by the lobby, intricately captures the spirit of the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata, allowing guests a sense of calmness and serene energy. Built over 8 acres, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat features 314 well-appointed guestrooms and suites. Each room boasts of an unobstructed view of the Kolkata skyline, and features the Westin brand’s signature Heavenly Bed® and upgraded Heavenly Bath® amenities, ensuring restful nights and blissful mornings. Mr. Neeraj Govil, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International said, “The opening of the second Marriott hotel in Kolkata, and the first under the Westin brand, marks a great milestone for Marriott International. After tapping the luxury market, it was but a matter of time before we presented one of our premium brands to the city of Kolkata. The hotel will offer a restorative retreat in the heart of the new business district of Rajarhat with Westin’s signature offerings that will fuel and energize our guests’ experience.” For an enriching culinary …

Minor Hotels, a hotel owner, operator and investor, currently with a portfolio of 157 hotels and resorts in 24 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean, is pleased to announce that it will open three new-build hotels in Qatar in spring 2018 under its Tivoli and Oaks brands. The three properties are owned by Katara Hospitality, a globally recognised hospitality owner, developer and operator. Launching in April, Tivoli Al Najada Doha Hotel is in the final stages of development in the centre of the Qatari capital. Facilities in the five-storey property will include 151 guest rooms and suites, a selection of dining options, a fitness centre, a swimming pool and a business centre, with guest rooms on the upper floors offering a panoramic view of the Doha skyline including West Bay. The hotel sits within a new development surrounding a large open piazza with cafes, restaurants and shops, with the hotel offering alfresco dining on the terrace. Tivoli Al Najada will also offer an impressive ballroom, designed to host elegant social occasions and corporate meetings and events, with a capacity of 250 guests. Oaks Hotels & Resorts will make its debut in Qatar with Oaks Al Najada Doha, also set to open its doors in April 2018. The 100 serviced apartments have been tastefully designed to reinvent the conventional residential concepts of compound and high-rise accommodations, with elegant, minimalist interiors and an Arabian artistic touch. Oaks Al Najada will offer a range of premier onsite facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, alfresco dining, a pool bar and 24hr room service. This will be the third Oaks in the Middle …

Mori Trust, Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton have announced an agreement to construct a new mixed-use development on Sesokojima Island, Okinawa, marking the first alliance between Mori Trust and Hilton Grand Vacations, as well as the latter’s first announced dedicated timeshare resort in the Japanese market. The new-build development, to be constructed by Mori Trust, will comprise a 132-unit timeshare resort that will be owned and managed by Hilton Grand Vacations, as well as a Hilton-managed hotel with approximately 300 rooms. Hilton Okinawa Sesoko Resort is set to open in 2020, while the HGV timeshare resort is expected to commence operations in 2021. Miwako Date, President, Mori Trust, said: “In addition to announcing our partnership with Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton, Mori Trust is also delighted to introduce the attractions of Japan to international travellers through Sesokojima Island, a place surrounded by beautiful beaches and the ocean. Located near to Okinawa Chura-umi Aquarium, world heritage site Nakijin Castle, and Motobu Port, which is expected to support the arrival and docking of large cruise ships, Sesokojima Island is an excellent choice for extended-stay guests. Our cooperation with Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton, which have a strong legacy in hospitality, ensures that both domestic and international travellers, including those planning mid- to long-term stays, will enjoy their experience.” Under Hilton Grand Vacations’ timeshare system, ownership of the resort is sold on a weekly basis, and owners can enjoy building a stay schedule that is based on their needs. Ownership styles range from “fixed week” and “flex week,” and on-season and off-season, and can be changed according to preference. Options of a spacious home-like accommodation with full kitchens, extra bedrooms and plenty of …

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts elevates its guest experience with the introduction of its new and exclusive bath amenities line, Le Grand Bain. Created by renowned beauty maverick, Ben Gorham of Byredo, Le Grand Bain bath and body line is now available exclusively at Sheraton US and Canada properties. The name, Le Grand Bain, describes the submergence into deep water, which signifies a level of ambition and accomplishment, similar to that of the Sheraton traveler. Gorham traveled far and wide in search of ingredients that conjure this plunge, creating a signature blend of energizing Citron and balancing Vetiver to reflect the unique focused found in the deep end. “Throughout this project, the emphasis has been on creating a high-quality amenities line that is distinctly unique for the Sheraton customer,” said Ben Gorham, Artisan and Innovator. “The fragrance of le grand bain is modern, but carries elements from iconic fragrances launched through perfume history, giving it a timeless backdrop honoring the Sheraton heritage as a hospitality pioneer.” The result of Gorham’s research and efforts is a premium product line that is distinctly global in its origins that incorporates ingredients sourced from around the world in a paraben-free product that completely enhances the guest bath experience at Sheraton. The line was created with the modern traveler in mind with products that will greet the busy traveler with timeless aromas and provide them with necessities needed while on the road. The collection features a new conditioner, shampoo, body lotion, body wash, bath bar and a facial bar. “We are constantly looking for ways to go beyond for our guests and we are proud to partner with Ben to introduce this new bath amenities line …

Hilton has announced the opening of Hilton Astana, the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in Kazakhstan. The 253-room hotel offers a wide range of amenities including unrivaled event space and a state-of-the-art spa, ideal for local and international travelers to Kazakhstan’s capital city.”Hilton is committed to providing our signature hospitality in the places that matter most to travelers, which is why we are so pleased to introduce the brand’s first hotel in Astana,” said Andreas Lackner, regional head, brand management, Hilton. “Astana recently hosted Expo 2017, raising its profile internationally and setting the scene for the city for years to come. While already recognized as a key business and MICE destination, travelers to Astana can also marvel at the city’s impressive futuristic architecture and visit a range of cultural attractions including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, the Independence Palace and the Batirek Monument.” Hilton Astana occupies a prime location, next to Silk Way, the largest shopping mall in Astana. It also offers excellent transportation links to top attractions in the city. It has easy access to Astana’s main roads, Mangilik Yel Avenue and Kabanbay Batyr Avenue, and is just four kilometres from the city centre. It is also less than 10 kilometres from Astana International Airport which has direct flights to a range of destinations including Moscow, Dubai, London and China. Hilton Astana boasts more than 4,000 square meters of events space, comprising nine meeting rooms and a ballroom that can host up to 900 people. The hotel is also close to the Expo’s main congress hall which can host up to 5,000 people. For guests looking to unwind, Hilton Astana features Hilton’s signature eforea spa. At over …

Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with Kunshan Yuanwanggu IOT Industrial Park Company Limited to manage Dusit Thani Zhouzhuang, a luxury hotel in Zhouzhuang, one of the most famous water towns in China. Phase one is anticipated to open in 2018, with phase two following in 2022. Located in the coastal province of Jiangsu, Zhouzhuang is often referred to as ‘Venice of the East’ due to its distinctive network of canals, rivers and lakes, well-preserved ancient houses and bridges, and splendid water views. Set within the Yungu Pastoral Valley, approximately 50 minutes by car from Shanghai and 40 minutes from Suzhou, the five-star Dusit Thani Zhouzhuang will comprise 30 rooms in traditional houses and 160 hotel guest rooms. The traditional houses will open next year in phase one of the development alongside an all-day-dining restaurant. The main hotel building will open in phase two and will include a main dining restaurant; a Chinese restaurant with private dining rooms; a well-equipped gym; an indoor swimming pool; and conference facilities. The family-friendly property will also have its own Mini Golf Range, Canoe Club, Kid’s Club, and Children’s Farm. Zhouzhuang’s main scenic spots and historical attractions that date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties are all within walking distance. Guests can also travel between the various sights aboard a traditional gondola. “We are very proud and honoured to be given the opportunity to manage such a luxury hotel in this stunning and historic location,” said Mr Lim Boon Kwee, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “By exceeding guests’ expectations with each and every experience, the hotel will be perfectly positioned to meet the needs of domestic and international travellers alike. We …