Australian hotel group to test UK market

Australian-based hotel group TFE Hotels is set to launch its first properties in the UK later this year, making its debut in the British Isles.

TFE is to open two Adina-branded apartment-hotels, The Hobson Cambridge by Adina and The Wellington Glasgow by Adina in Scotland.

Both properties are set to open in the northern hemisphere autumn, news portal Travel Mole reported.

TFE Hotels was established in 2013 as a joint venture between Australia’s Toga Group (1963), and Singapore’s Far East Hospitality Holdings.

Asli Kutlucan, CEO of TFE Hotels Europe, said: “Our arrival in Cambridge and Glasgow signals a confident step forward for TFE Hotels’ European strategy.

“These two properties align with our vision of offering flexible, design-led apartment-hotel experiences.”

TFE has grown its presence across Europe with existing Adina apartment-hotels in Germany, Austria, Denmark, Switzerland and Hungary.

Hobson Cambridge by Adina is housed in a former police station which retains heritage architecture. It will also feature a bar and restaurant.

The Wellington Glasgow by Adina is situated in central Glasgow within easy reach of the city’s conference hubs, shopping and nightlife.

Moritz Klein, head of operations EU & UK at TFE Hotels Europe, said: “Launching Adina Apartment Hotels in the UK is a significant operational milestone for TFE Hotels.

"Our teams have been working closely to ensure a seamless brand introduction.”

TFE Hotels brands include Adina Hotels, A by Adina, Vibe Hotels, Quincy Hotels, Travelodge and Rendezvous Hotels.

Image: The Hobson Cambridge by Adina

Glasgow keen to embrace cruise ships

 

While many cities around the globe are keen to be rid of polluting large cruise ships, Glasgow in Scotland is keen to embrace them.

A proposal is being mooted to bring large cruise ships down the River Clyde all the way to Glasgow city centre, news portal Travel Mole reports.

"Ambitious plans" would see cruise ships dock at the King George V Dock in Govan.

Greenock, further outside the city, is currently the cruise ship gateway to the city of Glasgow. It is 36km away. 

Operator Peel Ports has presented a proposal to West of Scotland Member of the Scottish Parliament Russell Findlay, who is supporting it.

“Seeing cruise ships coming up the Clyde into the centre of Glasgow would be a huge boost to Scotland’s biggest city and I’m delighted to give my party’s full support,” he said.

“If this happens, it has the potential to bring in huge numbers of visitors which would not only help benefit the economy but rejuvenate the riverside.

“I would urge the Scottish Government and city council to encourage rather than stifle enterprising ideas like this.”

Local councillor John Daly is another who is in favour of the idea.

“I wholeheartedly support the plans from Peel Ports to bring cruise ships to the heart of the city,” he said.

“I am proud to represent this city and will always champion proposals like this which could deliver a much-needed jobs boost for Glasgow.”

Peel Ports says allowing cruise ships down the Clyde into Glasgow have been "discussed in principle" many times without success.

“The Port of Greenock remains the Clyde’s cruise terminal, following the major investments into the facilities over recent years,” Peel said.

Somewhere fun to stay in Glasgow

Glasgow is a destination that has transformed itself in recent years and the hip The Moxy Hotel Merchant City hotel is just a short stroll from the centre of Scotland's buzziest city. 

It is in a lively area known for its many eateries, student bars, art galleries and coffee shops.

The funky Moxy is part of the Marriott group and is just a short walk from both Glasgow Cathedral and the landmark George Square. 

There is a casual vibe with friendly staff and the rooms feature complimentary wifi, flat-screen TVs and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

It's easy to find someone to chat with around the bar and games area, and the multicultural staff are very helpful. 

Amenities include an industrial-chic 24-hour cafe/bar with a lively vibe, a lounge and a fitness centre. 

Prices start from under $100 per night for small rooms but rise steeply in peak periods, so it pays to book in advance. 

MOXY GLASGOW MERCHANT CITY

This is a version of a story that appeared in Winestate Magazine.