Shangri-La Launches Mobile App for iPhone

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has announced the launch of the first of the two phases of their mobile application (app) for iPhone.  As a natural extension of the brand's recently revamped website, the new app will not only encompass all the features of the website's functions, but it will now provide easy access and booking for Shangri-La's 72 hotels and resorts at one's fingertips, anywhere in the world.

Developed to maximise the features of the current smartphone technology, the free Shangri-La app that is available for download through the App Store in English or Simplified Chinese, allows guests to search and book real-time reservations at all Shangri-La hotel locations, view all special promotions and receive location-based offers at specific hotels with GPS technology, and manage their Golden Circle loyalty programme membership account efficiently. The app for iPad, Android and Blackberry devices are currently under development.

Key features of the mobile app will enable users to:

- Explore, book, view and edit room reservations at over 70 Shangri-La, Traders and Kerry hotels and resorts

- Join Golden Circle quickly with just a few taps

- Check Golden Circle Award Points balance and manage the membership account

- Redeem points for complimentary stays plus dining and CHI, The Spa vouchers

- Get travel tips, read and share travel stories with Golden Circle members

- Integrate with popular social media platforms

- Connect to the nearest international toll-free numbers for 24/7 customer support using location-based GPS technology

- Retrieve offers and stories at Shangri-La hotels with the built-in QR code scanner

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney

"We realise how valuable it is to build an interactive relationship with our guests and members, and that's why Shangri-La is offering them additional touch points through this first generation of our new mobile app," said Wee Kee Ng, director of corporate loyalty and partner marketing of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. "As part of our global mobile strategy which included the successful launch of the group's new website in May, Shangri-La also offers free Wi-Fi in all areas of every one of the group's hotels, including the guestrooms, public areas, restaurants, lounges and function areas. All these initiatives will empower our guests and members by allowing full engagement with our hotels at their convenience."

Plans are already underway for the second phase of this versatile mobile app that will be launched in the first quarter of 2013 to develop the following additional features that would include more hotel-centric features:

- Retrieve room text and voice messages

- Set up and cancel a wake-up call

- Folio review and express check-out

- Make a turndown request

- Luggage service request

- Individual hotel directory

- In-room dining menu and order

- Table reservations at different restaurants

- Local weather

- Airline arrival and departure flight status

As part of the launch campaign, from now until 15 October 2012, all users who download the app and share their travel stories in "Your Circle" - the segment dedicated to personalised feature contributions within the programme's travel site "Inner Circle" - will have the opportunity to win one of the 20 luxurious vacations, each of which is a three-night stay in an Executive Suite at any Shangri-La hotel or resort of their choice.

Since the relaunch of the Golden Circle Programme in October 2010, the awards programme has attracted more than 450,000 new members, bringing the total membership to over 2.2 million guests who have earned more than 1 billion GC Award Points.

Golden Circle enables members to earn and accumulate points by staying at Shangri-La, Kerry and Traders hotels and resorts, dining at participating restaurants or enjoying spa treatments at CHI.  These points may then be redeemed for complimentary room nights, upgrades, dining, spa privileges and airline miles.  Golden Circle members may earn one GC Award Point for every US$1 or local currency equivalent spent.  Rewards are available for as little as 500 GC Awards Points and members can share rewards with family members.  For more information about the programme or to register as a member, visit www.goldencircle.shangri-la.com.

Shangri-La Hotel Cairns

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, one of the world's premier hotel companies, currently owns and/or manages 72 hotels under the Shangri-La, Kerry and Traders brands, with a room inventory of over 30,000.  Over four decades the group has established its brand hallmark of 'hospitality from the heart.'  The group has a substantial development pipeline with upcoming projects in Canada, mainland China, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey and United Kingdom.  For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.

Madame Tussauds Sydney Presents The Bollywood World Tour

Bollywood World Tour

Bollywood superstars Kareena Kapoor and Shahrukh Khan will take centre stage this weekend as Madame Tussauds Sydney launches their first travelling exhibit, The Bollywood World Tour.

From August 5th to October 28th only, visitors to Madame Tussauds Sydney have the chance to get up close and personal with five of Bollywood's biggest stars in an interactive experience set to have everyone practicing their best Bollywood dance moves.

To celebrate the arrival of the Bollywood legends, local dance companies Napur Dance Group and Road2Bollywood Academy charmingly danced around the figures to create the atmosphere of a real life Bollywood movie set. Also present was the Consul General of India, Arun K. Goel, who was nothing less than astounded by the lifelike figures.

With the identity of the last figure to feature in the exhibit kept tightly under wraps, many fans will be relieved to learn that Bollywood screen siren Kareena Kapoor will also be a part of the Bollywood extravaganza. Born into a family of actors, Kapoor rose to fame in 2000 and went on to cement her name as Bollywood royalty. Further to this, Kapoor played a part in 3 Idiots (2009) which is the highest-grossing Bollywood film of all time, taking in US$45.18million in India alone.

Bollywood World Tour

Another Bollywood legend to feature, Shahrukh Khan, is a highly celebrated Bollywood actor, producer and television host.  Khan has starred in more than 50 films throughout his career, been named one of Newsweek's '50 Most Powerful People in the World' and has a global fan following numbering in the billions. With numerous box office smashes to his name over the past twenty years, Khan has also earned much critical acclaim - he has won no less than seven Filmfare Best Actor Awards.

Other screen legends to feature in the exhibit include one of Bollywood's leading ladies and Miss World 1994, Aishwarya Rai, actor, producer and presenter Amitabh Bachchan and child actor turned successful Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan.

Hywel Mathias, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Sydney is delighted to welcome the Bollywood World Tour to Sydney and remarked, "This exhibit will add even more colour and interactivity to our attraction, and I have no doubt the amazingly lifelike wax figures will be extremely popular with our guests, particularly the local Indian community. The Bollywood industry is one that is growing exponentially and we are certainly very proud to be able to offer our guests a taste of it right here in Sydney".

Bollywood World Tour

Madame Tussauds Sydney is located on Sydney's renowned Darling Harbour and is the place to get on stage with the stars, rub shoulders with the most powerful politicians and challenge your favourite sports heroes. The Bollywood World Tour will join the unique line-up of celebrities already featured at Madame Tussauds Sydney including Captain Cook, Sir Donald Bradman, Albert Einstein, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, Johnny Depp and Lady Gaga.

Madame Tussauds Sydney is open from 9am - 8pm daily and admission prices include access to the whole Madame Tussauds Sydney attraction and Bollywood experience.

Bollywood World Tour

Where: Madame Tussauds Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour (right next door to WILD LIFE Sydney)

Opening hours: 9am - 8pm daily

 Cost: Prices from $24.50 when you book online. Walk-up price - Adults: $35, Children (4-15yrs): $20

Concession: $28. Combination tickets are available with Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney and Sydney Tower Eye

For more information and exciting updates on Madame Tussauds, please visit:

www.madametussauds.com.au/sydney or www.facebook.com/madametussaudssydney

Ships Ahoy! at the Sydney International Boat Show

As I was in Sydney today I thought I would drop into the 45th Sydney International Boat Show for a quick visit. Being the land-lubber that I am, I thought I would be in and out within the half hour. My only experience of boating to date is riding on the Manly Ferry and some years ago hiring a tinnie for two hours at Tuross Lakes for a spot of fishing – with no fish being caught.

To my surprise I was still viewing exhibits at the Sydney International Boat Show four hours after I went in at 10m when the doors opened. There was so much to see that I could have stayed all day, however I had a train to catch to return to my home in country NSW.

The Boat Show is conveniently located in the heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour. I hoped off the train at Town Hall Station and walked the short distance down Bathurst Street Darling Harbour, though I could have gone there by light rail, monorail, bus or ferry.

First off I explored all the boats moored at the huge temporary marine in Cockle Bay. Many boats of all shapes and sizes were on display by various Australian and international companies. Most were brand new, though there were a few heritage boats as well. They ranged in price from less expensive to very expensive to very, very expensive.

Princess 72Y/045

The most expensive boat I boarded was the new Princess 72Y/045 motor yacht with the price tag of $5,122,741. And what an amazing boat it was! The hull was gleaming white and the fully air-conditioned interiors featured leather, marble, and walnut gloss wood finish. The top level, called the fly-bridge (…. I’m starting to get a hang of all these nautical terms…) had a large seating and dining area, space to store a jet-ski, a wetbar and BBQ. The middle level has the fully equipped galley (…kitchen…) dining and entertaining areas. The lower level has five cabins (…bedrooms…) and four bathrooms.  Other little touches were the Bose premium sound system and  the hydraulic swim platform. I can just imagine us living in this boat, even if it stayed moored at the one spot on the water – it is more luxurious than our home!

I missed out on seeing the most expensive boat on sale - the Horizon 107 motor yacht. It has six bedrooms and sleeps 14 people and is on sale for a modest $10 million.

          

There were too many boats to go on board and explore every single one, so I just picked a few as I walked around the marina. There were boats of all sizes and types including fishing, sailing, waterskiing, and family cruising. A hint for other first time Boat Show goers – wear shoes that are easy to take on and off. Most of the boats ask you to remove your shoes before boarding, which is fair enough, considering the quality of the boats and the thousands of people inspecting them.

“Hurrica V”

In contrast to the gleaming new boats, some older heritage boats were on display. I boarded all these, and marvelled at their character of yester-year. “Boomerang”, a Gentlemen’s Schooner was built in 1903 and made of hardwood frames and kauri decks & deck beams. “Lady Hopetoun” a Classic Edwardian steam launch, was built in 1902 and launched in Berry’s Bay. This boat was named after the wife of the first Governor- General of Australia.  “Hurrica V”, a classic ketch, was built in 1922, and appears in the new Baz Luhmann movie “The Great Gatsby”. It is made from spotted gum, kauri, teak and Browns pine timbers.

After walking around the Marina I then ventured into the six halls of the Sydney Exhibition Centre which were jam packed with boats, boating gear and associated boating services. Motor boats, yachts, run-about tinnies, jet skis, water skis and wakeboards were all displayed on the various stands. Fishing rods, life jackets, clothing and other boating essential were on display and for sale

The exhibition halls house the education and entertainment activities that are held throughout the Boat Show. Make sure you pick up a guide to the days activities when you enter the Boat Show and spend a few minutes reading it. That way you will not miss out on those activities that interest you. Don’t be like me and read it on the train on the way home from the Boat Show!

Musto Fashion Extravaganza

Each day fishing and boating experts give inspiring talks on stage in Hall 3. For example James Castrission and Justin Jones will share stories at 2pm each day of their 89 day and 2,275km journey to the South Pole, by foot. Hear about their astounding experience at 2pm each day. Other speakers will talk on fishing tips and techniques, bait and lure fishing, in-shore sport fishing, catching your dream fish, and sustainable and responsible fishing.

I managed to see what I thought was a dance crew showing their latest moves in Hall 3, but it turned out to be the Musto Fashion Extravaganza. This is the new way of doing the old fashioned catwalk fashion parade, and will be presented three times each day.

As I went to the Boat Show today, I missed out on seeing the  

annual Boat Building Competition. This will take place at 10am tomorrow (Saturday) at the Harbourside Amphitheatre in Cockle Bay. Teams of shipwrights from Australia and New Zealand will have a 2 hour time limit to build a boat which they will attempt to sail in Cockle Bay at 2pm.

The Deckhouse Theatrette in Hall 6 each day features short presentations, including boat show exhibitors showcasing their latest products and services, talks on the latest in boating safety, and talks on how to obtain an International Certificate of Competence,

Row, Row, Row Your Boat...

The Berkley Evinrude Teams Series (BETS) Fishing Competition Grand Final will be held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. This is when the boats return and the fish are placed and weighed in the BETS Bream Tank. This will be located at Harbourside Amphitheatre overlooking Cockle Bay

With all the cooking shows rating well on TV in recent years, it is no surprise that the Sydney International Boat Show includes cooking demonstrations. Bart Beek, Club Marine’s resident chef, will cooks some of the scrumptious recipes from the August/September issue of Club Marine magazine in Hall 5 each day.

The Sydney International Boat Show opened on Thursday, with 7,285 people in attendance. I’m not sure how many people attended today, but I am sure that the numbers are building up each day as more and more people come to se all that is on display. I suggest that you arrive as early as you can to beat the crowds. Remember your sunscreen and hat!

Boats and More Boats!

If you are a boating enthusiast make sure you attend this years Sydney International Boat Show. If you are like me and know nothing about boating make sure you attend – it is interesting to see the range of what is available in the boating world in 2012. Make sure you bring along your family, friends and workmates Saturday (tomorrow), Sunday or Monday. I suggest that you allow plenty of time to see all that is on display, as there is too much to see. Allow a half day or even full day viewing - you will be amazed at what you will see at the Boat Show, both in the Exhibition Halls and on the Marina..To see all the Boat Show at a leisurely pace, there are enough days left for a three day admission pass. If you do have limited time available to attend, I suggest that you take advantage of the after 5pm reduced admission price. And remember, Ships Ahoy!

DETAILS: The 45th Sydney International Boat Show

LOCATION: The Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre & Cockle Bay Marina, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

DATES: 2 - 6 August, 2012 (Thursday – Monday)

HOURS: 10am - 8pm Halls, 10am - 6pm Marina

TICKET PRICES:

Hook. Line and Sinker

Adult $20.00, Child $12.00 6 to 17 years, 5 and under free, Pensioner $14.50 - Card required, Senior $18.00 - Card required,

Family $47.00 2 adults and 3 children

3-Day VIP Guest Pass $44.00
After 5pm Admission $5

For more detailed information about the 45th Sydney International Boat Show, and to see live web cams, go to the web site at sydneyboatshow.com.au

Clive Palmer Plans Sunshine Coast World Tourist Mecca to Create 9,000 Jobs

Clive Palmer

Leading businessman Professor Clive Palmer has announced plans for a massive redevelopment of Palmer Coolum Resort in Queensland Australia which will generate 9,000 jobs for the Sunshine Coast and elevate the region to be one of the world's top tourism destinations.

Professor Palmer today released concept plans for a new Sunshine Coast International Airport, a new beachfront hotel and retail development, convention centre, casino, theme park, water park, aviary and aquarium at the Coolum site.

"This will boost the resort's workforce to more than 2500 staff when operating," he said. The new airport will be capable of taking A380s and 747 Jumbo jets from Singapore, Beijing and Tokyo directly to the Sunshine Coast. We estimate this project and its flow on effects could generate more than 9,000 jobs for the Sunshine Coast region during construction.”

"Hawaii and other Pacific nations have taken all the real tourism growth out of the Australian and Queensland economies. We have not been able to compete with the beachfront development at Waikiki in Hawaii or with Fiji and other destinations because of restrictions. As a consequence of this, Queensland jobs and families have suffered as have our children's future and the state's revenue. It's time we made a change and reclaimed the state's mantle as Australia's and the world's premium tourist destination."

Professor Palmer said the project when completed will help make the Sunshine Coast one of the most popular tourism regions in the world.

"I believe there is a strong willingness from people on the Sunshine Coast for a major job creating project like this to happen," he said. There haven't been any major tourism developments in Queensland since the 1970s and 1980s and we are looking to raise the bar again with this project."

Palmer Coolum Resort

Professor Palmer said a key to the Coolum project's success would be the proposed expansion of the nearby Sunshine Coast Airport to allow for more flights from Asia.

"This will significantly boost the region's capacity to accommodate both domestic and international visitors and it will create enormous interest in a country such as China and its growing tourism market.

"The Sunshine Coast is a magnificent region and the gateway to Fraser Island and the Great Barrier Reef. We want to make it one of the great tourism destinations on the planet."

Professor Palmer plans to link the revamped airport to the resort with a proposed new monorail system.

"We also plan to operate an ocean-going hovercraft service with capacity for up to 400 people from the Brisbane CBD to Coolum," he said. This will enable people to get to the resort from Brisbane quickly. They can stay at the resort or they can just come up on the night and enjoy an amazing dining experience before going back to Brisbane."

Professor Palmer said the new beachfront hotels will offer a thousand rooms and will include a rooftop entertainment area with ocean views.

He said the other proposals were for a high rollers casino, an aquarium offering an "unforgettable experience", an aviary to accommodate multiple species of native Australian birds in a sustainable environment, a beachside water park and a theme park.

"The theme park has been designated for an 80 acre area and our options include family oriented attractions," he said. "We also plan to build a convention centre which can host 5,000 people and have underground parking for up to 3,000 cars."

Professor Palmer said the redevelopment plans featured a significant boost to the retail and dining offerings currently available at the Palmer Coolum Resort.

Palmer Coolum Resort

"We want people at Noosa to come here to shop and eat. The new resort will boast international retail brands and a wide spectrum of food and entertainment experiences."

Professor Palmer said the development proposals would be put to the Sunshine Coast community for consideration.

"We will spend the next six months seeing if the community wants the Sunshine Coast to lead the world," he said. "The construction phase would take approximately three years."

Tropical Pride Festival at Cairns Festival 2012

Cairns Festival will kick off its 2012 season with a multi-dimensional program spanning music, art, dance, culture, comedy and entertainment in a free and ticketed program that rolls out from Friday 17 August until Sunday, 2 September

One of the highlights of this years Cairns Festival is the Tropical Pride Festival on Sunday, 26 August, 2012.

    

Drawing over 20,000 people, this is a family day full of food, frivolity and fun with diverse community stalls dotting the pathways around and in the Tanks Arts Centre precinct, featuring a wealth of talented performers across two stages including the Cairns OutLoud Gay and Lesbian Choir, events such as Gay Bingo, Art Exhibition and Dog Show. 

The annual Tropical Pride Festival will take centre stage as part of the Cairns Festival

The week long festival which runs from Sat 21 Aug – Sun 29 Aug, kicks of with a Tropical Pride float in the Cairns Festival Parade and is followed by an ‘Out Proud’ dance party held at the Blue Sky Brewery later that night. The festival will include a community awards night at Skinny Dips Resort, an art show and dog show, but undoubtedly the jewel in the festival’s crown will be the Tropical Pride Fair Day, which will be officially launched by Cairns Mayor Val Schier on Sunday 29th Aug at the Tanks Art Centre. Each year sees thousands of locals and visitors alike showing their pride at the fair, enjoying an amazing array of live performances, food, drinks and stalls.

Now in it’s fourth year, Tropical Pride has become one of the fastest growing LGBT events in the country and organisers are encouraging visitors to escape the chilly southern winter and take advantage of the beautiful tropical weather and gay friendly atmosphere that Cairns has to offer. Skinny Dips Spa & Resort and the Turtle Cove beachfront resort are the standouts for LGBT accommodation in the region, but Cairn’s LGBT friendly nature means that there are many accommodation options available to suit any budget.

Note: Some MA 15+ content, parental guidance recommended (adult areas clearly signposted).

Cost: $5 entry with lucky door prize ticket

Time: 10am - 6pm  Venue: Tanks Arts Centre

For more information about The Cairns Tropical Pride Festival and events, please visit www.cairnstropicalpride.com.au

Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney to Fund-Raise for Children's Charity

There are many worthwhile charities needing as much support as they can get, so it is good news when individuals and companies get behind a charity. One such company is the the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group which has had a long standing relationship with the World Childhood Foundation.

The Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney expanded their fundraising efforts by establishing a yearly event in support of the charity. This year it is to be held on Friday 7 September 2012 and the five-star Sydney hotel appeals to its stakeholders and business partners to support its efforts on the night of the Gala Dinner or with online donations.

Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney

The World Childhood Foundation's work is aimed at the most marginalized children, the ones most often ignored and forgotten and focuses especially on homeless street children, children living in institutions, young mothers and sexually abused children. As part of the hotel's Responsible Business strategy, all proceeds from the Gala Dinner ticket sales, monetary donations and money raised on the special night will go to the World Childhood Foundation to support disadvantages children around the world.

Packed with entertainment, the Gala Dinner promises to become a spectacular night. Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney's star chef Oswin Ribeiro will be treating guests to a 3-course menu of tantalizing delights while the popular and charismatic radio personality Gareth McCray will be MC'ing the night. Outstanding musical performances from local children and a fun Q&A with Attorney General Greg Smith, as well as superb silent auction items and lucky door prizes are bound to transform this fundraiser into a magnificent night.

Tickets for this event can be purchased at $150 per person or $1,350 per table of ten.

One main addition to this year's appeal is the online fundraising page that the Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney set up, targeting an extra $5,000 of donations. On the following website http://www.mycause.com.au/mycause/raise_money/fundraise.php?id=52539, the hotel appeals to businesses, partners, suppliers, guests and the public to make a difference by supporting the charity event with monetary donations.

Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney

"After last year's success with over $30,000 raised, we have set ourselves the challenge to make the same impact on deprived children again this year," says General Manager Peter Tudehope. "The continuous support of our business partners thereby is of great importance and we thank all our main sponsors and helpers that have agreed to assist again. Always committed to attaining environmental and social sustainability, we strive to surpass last year's figures by targeting an extra $5,000 this year. We have created an online platform allowing people to donate to this cause quickly and easily and we look forward to seeing the fundraising-metre rise. We are reliant on your support and hopefully the public will help to make this year's event another success. Together we can make a difference."

Support this charity online: http://www.mycause.com.au/mycause/raise_money/fundraise.php?id=52539

Follow Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney on twitter: https://twitter.com/Radisson_Sydney

Get the latest news from Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RadissonSydney

The Countdown is On, 17 Days 'til Cairns Festival Kick Off

Cairns Festival will kick off its 2012 season in just 17 days with a blockbuster bill of entertainment that has three of its five top highlights in the opening days.  True to its promise, there is something for everyone with over 100 individual events and activities to choose from in a free and ticketed program spanning music, dance, comedy, art, theatre, culture and more.

In 2012, Cairns Festival's top five are as follows:

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), 17 - 19 August, 2012

Cairns Festival's Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), 17-19 August at Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal is the opening highlight of this year's Cairns Festival.

This is the third annual CIAF that is all about celebrating the best of Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Street Islander art on the waterfront.  The program is extensive and can be viewed online www.ciaf.com.au

The Village on Esplanade, 17 August - 2 September, 2012

The Village on Esplanade will make its debut on day one of Cairns Festival  and has been billed by organisers as the event to watch.  A cluster of colourful, Moroccan tents (The Palace, The Pavilion, The Performery and The Castello) have been themed to focus on a particular type of entertainment be it performance, music, community or quirky - and operate both day and night throughout the 17 day program.  A special children's village will take place on the first two weekends from 10am to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday. 

Overflow FNQ Grand Parade & Fireworks, Saturday, 18 August, 2012

This year Cairns will celebrate its 51st annual parade and like previous years, will be expected to draw an audience of 30,000 people to cheer on the procession of some 50 floats - from the Japanese community's Omikoshi entry featuring some 300 participants to the roller derby girls.  This year's parade begins at 5.30pm and culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over Trinity Inlet from approximately 8pm.  A line up of local entertainers will also perform.

Carnival on Collins, Collins Avenue, Edge Hill  - Sunday, 2 September, 2012

This is Cairns Festival's finale event and a great family fun day.  Held on Father's Day, Carnival is a must-do event for all ages, attracting over 20,000 people to a program of diverse and inspiring entertainment and activities played out amidst the city's lush gardens precinct.  Market stalls, live entertainment, kids activities and more.

Reggaetown World Music Festival, Saturday 1 September, 2012

Reggaetown World Music Festival at Kuranda Amphitheatre will provide a finale weekend highlight to this year's festival program. Featuring over a dozen bands playing Roots, Reggae, Dub, Ska and related rhythms along with a great selection of Reggae DJs who will have all dreadlocks, families, islanders, locals, tourists and switched on humans skankin' the day away.

And there's much more.... click on the Festival Website  www.cairnsfest.com.au

Sheraton on the Park Awarded Brasserie/Café of the Year

Sheraton on the Park

Sheraton on the Park has again been recognised for their consistently outstanding achievements, by winning two awards at the 2012 TAA (NSW) Awards for Excellence. Sheraton on the Park took home 'Brasserie / Café of the Year' and 'Workplace Health & Safety Hotel of the Year'.

Renowned for its popular seafood buffet and five star service, Sheraton on the Park's Botanica Brasserie was named "Café / Brasserie of the Year".  This is the third time that Botanica has won this award previously winning in 2008 and 2010; further acknowledges its reputation as the best seafood buffet in Sydney.  With its central location and sweeping view of Hyde Park, Botanica Brasserie is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with colleagues or loved ones.

Sheraton on the Park was also awarded "Workplace Health and Safety Hotel of the Year" and as an industry leader, this award reinforces that Sheraton on the Park is committed to looking after the safety, health and wellbeing of associates, guests and visitors. All associates are committed to safe work practices and this is reflected in the success at these awards. This is the fourth year that the hotel has won this award previously winning in 2008, 2010 and 2011.

The Tourism Accommodation Australia (NSW) Awards for Excellence are recognised as the most prestigious awards in the hospitality industry, honouring the achievement of excellence in service. According to Mr. Sean Hunt Managing Director, Sheraton on the Park and Regional Vice President Starwood Pacific Hotels, the award recognises the Hotels commitment to taking care of both all guests and associates.

 Botanica Brasserie

"Winning these prestigious awards is the culmination of many years of hard work and constant investment in our facilities and our people. Through an unprecedented string of awards, Sheraton on the Park has firmly positioned itself as the hotel of choice in the highly competitive 5-star Sydney market. All kudos to our talented team of associates, who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional services to our guests", he said.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Opens First Dual-Branded Ski Resort Complex In China

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. have  announced the opening of its first dual-branded ski resort complex in Changbaishan, China. Owned by Dalian Wanda Group, The Westin Changbaishan and Sheraton Changbaishan Resortare adjacent to the slopes of the Changbai Mountains, one of China’s leading ski areas and famed resort destinations. The opening marks Starwood’s first ski resorts in Asia Pacific, and further lengthens the company’s footprint as the largest international luxury and upper upscale hotel operator in China where the company recently celebrated its 103 hotels in operation, with another 100 hotel in the pipeline.
 

“We are pleased to introduce our first dual-branded ski resort complex and Starwood’s first resorts in Asia Pacific to Changbai Mountains. The Westin Changbaishan Resort and Sheraton Changbaishan Resort are testaments of our commitment to grow our brands and offerings for our Chinese guests.” said Stephen Ho, President, Asia Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “China is both our fastest growing global market and our richest source of loyal travelers, and we expect that this dual-branded Starwood resort will resonate with Chinese travelers who stick with the brands they know and love.”
 

Bordering Russia and North Korea in Jilin Province, Changbaishan houses a UNESCO-designated nature reserve that covers an area of over 494,000 acre. A unique highlight includes Tianchi (or “Heavenly Lake”), a vast elevated crater lake that forms the source of three rivers. The Westin and Sheraton resort complex is close to such pristine natural surroundings; it is also located near Yingfu Expressway, Changbaishan Airport (NBS), and the biggest ski field in Asia. The latter features 43 ski lanes and cable cover of up to 7.1 kilometers, accommodating 8,000 skiers. The area is also known for its powdery snow, trails surrounded by unspoiled pineforests, and hot springs.

                        

"We provide a ski retreat and all-year vacation destination in the heart of Changbaishan. I truly look forward to working with the teams at The Westin Changbaishan Resort and Sheraton Changbaishan Resort to deliver on our brands’ promise, creating value-added products and services, and memorable guest experiences," said Johnny Mathis, Managing Director of The Westin Changbaishan Resort and Sheraton Changbaishan Resort. “The two resorts are joined by a bridge, and guests staying at any of the two resorts enjoy access to the public areas of the other. They also have use of both resorts’ facilities, such as lobby lounges and swimming pool. The complex provides a very unique and convenient way to enjoy both brands, which is certain to impress even the most discerning travelers.”

The resort complex also offers more than 37,000 square feet of state-of-the-art function and meeting space, including a 13,362 square feet ballroom, nine smaller meeting rooms, and a spacious pre-function area. Six innovative food and beverage venues, along with a professional catering and meeting team, are capable of organizing functions for all types of occasions.

The Westin Changbaishan Resort

The Westin Changbaishan Resort inspires well being with expansive mountain views, world class dining, a Westin Kids Club, the signature Heavenly® Spa, and an indoor swimming pool. All 262 guestrooms are equipped with the world renowned Westin HeavenlyÒ Bed, featuring lush sheets, down cushioning, and a patented pillow-top mattress, providing complete comfort. Another industry first, the HeavenlyÒ Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe, and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high speed Internet and an ergonomic work space offers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting. Ski-in/ski-out access also allows guests to ski straight into the hotel lobby.

With an interactive cooking show on display, Seasonal Tastes is the hotel’s signature restaurant. Its international fare is inspired by color, freshness, and flair. Maru, the first Korean restaurant in Starwood branded hotels, spices things up with hearty, tantalizing cuisine.

Sheraton Changbaishan Resort

Sheraton Changbaishan Resort offers 297 guest rooms and suites with mountain or ski views, as well as a Sheraton Club lounge and Sheraton Club rooms with upgraded amenities. The heart of the lobby features the Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft®– a social hub where connections seamlessly take place. All guest rooms are equipped with an oversized work desk, custom-designed ergonomic chair, high speed Internet, LCD flat panel television, iPhone/iPad docking station, and the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed. Additional amenities include full service restaurants and lounge, and fully equipped fitness facilities featuring the brand’s revolutionary new health and fitness program, Sheraton Fitness programmed by Core Performance.

With a burst of freshness, color and variety, Sheraton’s signature restaurant Feast provides an irresistible visual and culinary spread. The open kitchens serve up the freshest a la carte food, while the buffet displays encourage an interactive dining experience for the whole family to enjoy. Yue offers traditional Chinese favorites, with an emphasis on Cantonese cuisine. And 13 private dining rooms are available.

Irish Food and Drink Festivals to Tantalise Your Taste Buds

Taste of West Cork Food Festival,

Ireland has a frenzy of food festivals set to entice and excite your taste buds this September and October. Highlights not to be missed include the Galway Oyster Festival, Arthurs Day, the Taste of West Cork Food Festival and the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival to name just a few.
 

Taste of West Cork Food Festival, 10th-16th September
Something is brewing in the south of Ireland’s gourmet capital, the Taste of West Cork Food Festival, . The main highlight of the festival is the much anticipated ‘Celtic Cook Off’ which showcases some of the best local produce and talent on offer from across the Celtic Isles. Watch chefs cook off against each other using only local produce plus one ‘wild card’ ingredient from their local area. Pick up some new cookery skills throughout the festival while you sample some of the freshest and finest local produce that Cork has to offer.
 

Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival, 28th- 30th September
Ireland has a long standing reputation for producing some of the finest seafood in Europe so it comes as no surprise that we are home to the oldest oyster festival in the world. Recommended by Lonely Planet and noted by the AA Travel Guide as one of ‘Europe’s Seven Best Festivals’, there is something for everyone to enjoy from the uniquely Irish opening ceremony to the World Oyster Opening Championships and the city-wide celebrations. Start practicing your shucking technique and spoil yourself with the abundance of fresh seafood and oysters on offer, guaranteed to satisfy!

Arthurs Day 2012, 27th September
On September 27th at 16:59 Guinness Fans worldwide will be encouraged to ‘Raise a Glass to Arthur’ and where better to celebrate than in the heart Ireland! The country is set to come alive with electric festivals and events that always aim to delight and top previous years. Expect impromptu performances from international artists, parties to last long into the night and of course, a pint of the ‘black stuff’ in everyone’s hand! 
 

Savour Kilkenny Food Festival, 25th - 29th October
What better location to sample gourmet delights than against the regal backdrop of Kilkenny Castle on an Autumnal evening? Acknowledged in Ireland as one of the main counties leading a food revolution, discover how local chefs mix their favourite Irish produce with flavours from around the world, to give you exciting and new dishes that will leave you hungry for more.
 

And if that is not enough don’t forget The Clarinbridge Oyster Festival, 15th - 16th September; Taste of Monaghan Food Festival, 4th-7th October; The Dingle Peninsula Food and Wine Festival, 5th -7th October; and The Kinsale Gourmet Festival, 12th-14th October.

For more information, visit Discoverireland.com.au