Culinary adventures and entertainment on the Bangkok waterfront

When it comes to location in Bangkok it is hard to go past Anantara Riverside Bangkok, a delightful riverside oasis in one of the world's busiest cities.

The hotel has just announced the grand opening of Sala Lakorn, a new restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Sala Lakorn is promising "world-class Thai cuisine with a captivating theatrical performance".

Guests are invited to an immersive evening of contemporary Thai culture and spectacle, available daily from 6pm to 10pm. 

The heart of the experience is "The Eternal Siam" (below), a show that is the vision of Manop Meejamrat (Kru Nai), a highly respected artist and recipient of the prestigious Silpathorn Award for Performing Arts.

The media release says: "The production masterfully blends stunning contemporary Thai performances with world-class visual effects and a powerful musical score. It takes audiences on a journey through the timeless beauty and spirit of Thailand, from the country's ancient origins to its vibrant present."

I'm more interested in the food; a buffet offering which showcases a mix of Thai culinary heritage and international favourites. 

A barbecue seafood section is a centrepiece, offering a selection of river prawns, blue swimmer crabs, slipper lobster, fine de claire oysters, and other delicacies. 

Signature Thai dishes include gang keaw wan gai (Thai green curry with chicken) and pla pad pak preaw wan (sweet & sour seabass) along with Thai street food favourites such as crab omelette with coconut siracha, sweet chilli sauce, bean sprouts and Thai herbs and live-action Som Tum stations.

International flavours include a China Town Station, where guests can enjoy scrumptious dim sum and favourites such as Hainanese chicken rice, and barbecue pork pork on rotation, while Indian favourites include chicken tikka, dal tarka and aloo shimla mirch. 

Sala Lakorn is aiming to become Bangkok's premier destination "for those seeking an evening of cultural immersion, exquisite dining, and world-class entertainment". 

For reservations and info contact +66 2431 9486 or email riversidedining@anantara.com.

New Melbourne hotel promises "best of both worlds"

If you want to stay close to Melbourne CBD - but not in the centre - then a new hotel opening might be of interest. 

Radisson Hotel Group has just debuted the Park Inn by Radisson Melbourne Carlton.

The city-fringe hotel sits adjacent to next Princes Park, opposite the Carlton AFL Club’s grounds, and is only 4 kilometers from Melbourne’s CBD.

The hotel features 89 rooms with views of Princes Park and the hotel’s outdoor pool. 

The interiors reflect Park Inn by Radisson's upbeat design ethos, creating a space where guests can relax and recharge. Families and small groups can enjoy the convenience of connecting rooms to stay together.

The new hotel is minutes from Lygon Street, Melbourne’s original Little Italy, with its many cafes, trattorias, pizza joints and gelato bars. 

Melbourne Zoo is a short 10-minute walk, with leading medical institutions, including the Royal Children’s Hospital and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, are within one kilometre.

The location is connected to tram routes, the University of Melbourne and city attractions. 

“We’re proud to introduce Park Inn by Radisson to Australia from a spot that feels authentically Melbourne," says GM Kathy Zha. 

"Our guests get the best of both worlds, the city’s energy within minutes and the calm of Princes Park right outside. 

"Whether here for meetings, medical visits, game day, or a weekend on Lygon Street, we’ll keep things easy, comfortable, and uplifting for guests.”

The outdoor swimming pool is now available and a new wellness hub is in development featuring an infrared and steam sauna, as well as a cold plunge experience.

The hotel runs up to 80% solar-powered energy, uses high-efficiency showerheads and taps. It features drought-tolerant native landscaping that needs minimal irrigation.

A multilingual team, speaking more than 10 languages, caters for international visitors. 

25Hours to revitalise a Sydney landmark location

One of Sydney's most famous addresses is to be re-born as a hip hotel later this month.

25hours Hotel The Olympia in Paddington will open its doors in Sydney on September 25.

The new 109-guest rooms venue is located on the heritage-listed site of the former West Olympia Theatre and the Grand Pacific Blue Room.

Pre-opening publicity says the hotel will be "deeply rooted in Sydney’s creative past and pays tribute to these iconic establishments that once shaped the city’s art and social scene".

The Olympia Theatre on Oxford Street has a creative history stretching back to 1911 and the new hotel will showcase an offspring of the famous The Palomar restaurant in London's Soho.

Cocktail and wine bar The Mulwray, coffee shop Jacob the Angel and and Monica Rooftop Bar (above) will also share the venue.

The name ‘25hours Hotel’ embodies the idea that 24hours simply aren’t enough. The brand specialises in trendy locations, so will be hoping to revive the once-hip Paddington strip.

The first 25hours Hotel opened in Hamburg in 2003 in a former factory building, part of the company ethos of breathing life back into historic landmarks and respecting the culture and heritage of the communities in which they are located.

In Sydney's case the former theatre was renovated and reinvented multiple times, screening everything from cult films to arthouse productions.

In the 1990s, the building reinvented itself as the Grand Pacific Blue Room, one of Sydney’s most fashionable nightclubs.

Each 25hours Hotel comes with its own hotel mascot - and the chosen creatures for 25hours Hotel The Olympia are a rainbow lorikeet and a frill-neck lizard.

25hours Hotel The Olympia will have six hire bikes available for guests to explore the neighbourhood of boutiques, galleries and restaurants.

See https://25hours-hotels.com/sydney/the-olympia/  

New look for Noosa hotel icon

For decades the Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort has been "the" place to stay in the Sunshine Coast's ritziest enclave. 

Now the only five-star resort on Hastings Street is undergoing a transformation that aims to cement its position as the glitziest place to stay, play, and indulge in one of Australia's most popular luxury destinations.

A multi-stage enhancement will transform all 175 guest rooms and suites, along with Noosa Beach House, the resort's dining and social hub. Guests are promised "a refreshed aesthetic that is both sophisticated and iconic". So no hype there.

Room renovations will start completion from next month, with "natural textures, custom detailing, and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors". 

General manager Mark Wilkinson said the transformation was about honouring Sofitel Noosa's reputation as a much-loved icon, while raising the bar for luxury in the region. 

"Every element has been crafted to feel effortless, creating spaces where visitors can spend time the way they want,” Wilkinson says.

“This resort has always been the jewel of Hastings Street, and we're taking it to the next level. 

"We're refining what people love about Sofitel Noosa - thoughtful styling, intuitive service, and a genuine welcome - while elevating comfort in every detail.

“From rooms to restaurants, each touchpoint is a modern expression of Noosa that feels internationally refined yet unmistakably local.”

Owned by Noosa Pacific Hotel Pty Ltd, part of The Pacific Collection led by the Karedis and Laundy families, and managed by Accor, the resort remains fully open during the enhancement, with services operating as normal and measures in place to minimise disruption.

See www.sofitelnoosapacificresort.com.au 

* Sofitel is part of Accor, a leading hospitality group comprising over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL - Accor Live Limitless - a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

Meet a Toronto hotel with an ideal location

 

Toronto is one of the biggest cities in North America, with an urban population of well over 3 million and a metropolitan area with more than 7 million residents.

So if you want to check out highlights like the CN Tower, St Lawrence Market and [Ice] Hockey Hall of Fame then you will want to stay where the action is: the downtown city core within walking distance of Union Station.

You certainly don't want to find yourself staying in the Toronto equivalent of Blacktown or Werribee and spending half your time commuting.    

Let me introduce the Novotel Downtown Centre, a superbly located medium-sized hotel that delivers on location, facilities and friendliness. There are 232 rooms over nine floors but there is still a boutique feel. 

Unlike some of its bigger, brasher American-brand rivals there is a cosmopolitan/European vibe here, with multicultural staff and a collective smile. There are some funky public areas, too. 

Sports lovers will be able to walk in just a few minutes to watch either the high-flying Toronto Blue Jays baseball team in summer, or the Toronto Maple Leafs ice hockey team in winter. The Raptors basketball team and Toronto FC also call the city home.

Their venues, the Rogers Centre and the Scotiabank Arena, also host regular concerts and events. Over the few days I was in town acts included Neil Young, Oasis, Nine Inch Nails and the Jonas Brothers.

Toronto is a big city with big city attractions. It currently boasts 109 skyscrapers (with another 30 planned).

Fortunately for tourists there is a well-connected transport system with underground railway, bus and streetcar systems well linked to take you to destinations like Chinatown, the massive Eaton Centre shopping complex and the waterfront.

The Novotel is in a great location for foodies - with the renowned St Lawrence Market just a two-minute stroll away. From maple syrup and Canadian bacon to cheeses from around the world, to fresh fruit and vegetables, this is one of the great gourmet destinations. Take away, or dine in, or al fresco,

I popped by for lunch one day and enjoyed a delicious clam chowder followed by a freshly made spicy calamari po' boy sandwich.

Around the corner is a legal cannabis shop, should that be your bag.  

The hotel itself offers very comfortable rooms with fridges, fast wifi and excellent showers.

The bar has a happy hour from 4-8pm with local beers and wines for $5 and reduced price cocktails (think an $8 Aperol Spritz), while on-site restaurant, Cafe Nicole Bar & Bistro, serves copious buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners and also has an ice cream parlour on the streetside patio for an afternoon treat.



From soups and salads to fish and chips, burgers and chimichurri striploin steak, and sun-dried pesto fettuccine, the menu showcases popular favourites.

Next to the reception desk there is a 24-hour mini market selling everything from toiletries and travel adaptors to sandwiches, crisps and ice cream, as well as a wide range of drinks, should you need a canned cocktail at 3am.

There is a well-equipped fitness centre (which I studiously avoided) and an indoor swimming pool and sauna; and you are in a safe area to go for a run or jog.

Rooms have huge TVs, wireless charging clock radios, pillow top mattress, fridge, coffee maker and  kettle, in-room safe and complimentary water.

Across the road from the Novotel you'll find a number of eating and drinking options, including The Old Spaghetti Factory, Scotland Yard, a  busy and friendly English-style pub, an Indian restaurant and a craft brewery. All well within staggering distance to your room.

A fun place to stay. Room prices vary seasonally. See https://novoteltorontocentre.com/ 

# The writer was a guest of Novotel Toronto Centre.

He flew with Qatar Airways from Melbourne to Toronto with one stop in Doha. Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for the ninth time at the 2025 World Airline Awards. Qatar flies from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth to Doha, with global onward connections. Starlink wifi is free on Starlink-equipped aircraft), gate-to-gate. See https://www.qatarairways.com/en-au/homepage.html? 

New Park Hyatt aims sky high

Travellers who like a room with a view will make a beeline for the new Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, which marks the luxury brand’s entry into Malaysia.

With rooms located between levels 75 and 114 of the Merdeka 118 – the tallest skyscraper in Asia Pacific, the hotel offers what are described as "unparalleled views of the Malaysian capital’s skyline".

"The Park Hyatt brand hits a milestone at 50 properties globally, adding its first hotel in Malaysia with the debut of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur - also marking an important breakthrough for the brand within south-east Asia," said David Udell, group president, Asia Pacific, Hyatt.

"This makes for an exciting chapter for Hyatt’s brand growth in the region, with three new properties opening in Kuala Lumpur within a year, an expansion of diverse offerings.”

Each of the 252 guestrooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling windows for both views and natural light. Suites feature living areas, a full bath with a separate rain shower and aromatherapy shower steamer, double vanity, a walk-in dressing room, personal study area, and, in select rooms, private dining spaces overlooking the cityscape.

Interiors by G.A Group are inspired by the traditional Malay Kampung houses.

A guided experience through Merdeka 118 Precinct is available with exclusive access to the historical landmark Stadium Merdeka where Malaysia’s Independence was declared, Al-Sultan Abdullah Mosque, the Merdeka Textile Museum, and Merdeka 118 building.

“Merdeka 118 will be a catalyst to uplift communities and enhance Kuala Lumpur’s long-term vibrancy," says YM Raja Tan Sri Dato' Seri Arshad Raja Tun Uda, Group Chairman of developers PNB.

The dining destinations at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will showcase Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine, while a yoga studio, fitness centre and private treatment suites are on level 99.

For further info see https://www.hyatt.com/park-hyatt/en-US/kulph-park-hyatt-kuala-lumpur.

Massive new luxury complex for Singapore

The huge Marina Bay Sands complex in Singapore is to gain a neighbouring sibling.

Las Vegas Sands this week broke ground on a new $8 billion luxury resort and entertainment destination.

The occasion was officiated by Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong; along with other dignitaries, news hub Travel Mole reported.

Robert Goldstein, CEO of Las Vegas Sands, said: “With its opening in 2010, our founder Sheldon G. Adelson embarked on a journey in Singapore with Marina Bay Sands that promised to change the face of tourism in the region.

“We have every intention of delivering a new era of luxury tourism in Singapore.”

The new project will feature a 570-suite luxury hotel tower capped with signature rooftop and dining experiences, retail boutiques, gaming, spa and wellness amenities, and approximately 200,000 square feet of meeting space.

It will also include a 15,000-seat arena for concerts and sports events.

The waterfront development will be located adjacent to the existing Marina Bay Sands.

The highlight of the hotel tower is the Skyloop, with elevated public and private spaces.

As a counterpart to the iconic Sands SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands, the Skyloop has 360-degree views.

The lower Skyloop will house an observatory, destination restaurants and rooftop gardens.

Above, hotel guests can enjoy private cabanas and infinity-edge pools. There will also be a cantilevered wellness terrace that is designed for yoga, arts and specialty events.

High spirited: The tiniest bar pops up in Sydney

Five-star Kimpton Margot Sydney has unveiled The Vault, a hidden speakeasy pop-up, tucked inside the original strongroom of the hotel’s heritage-listed 1930s Art Deco Water Board Building.

But this is no ordinary bar. 

Measuring just eight-and-a-half square metres, with space for six guests and one bartender, The Vault is located underneath the hotel’s lobby, and features a whisky barrel table, soft lamp lighting and heritage shelves lined with bottles.

From now until July 31, The Vault pop-up will offer whisky tastings, with a menu of four drams from boutique Tasmanian distillery Lark, designed to sip back-to-back paired with seasonal canapés by Australian chef Luke Mangan of Luke’s Kitchen, for $110 per person.

The whiskies include the Chinotto Cask, Classic Cask, Peated Whisky and a limited- edition Dark Lark single malt whisky. 

Spirit lovers can upgrade their experience to also include the Japanese whisky-inspired Lark’s Mizunara Rare Oak Cask for an additional $60 per person.

Bookings are essential, with one-hour sessions Wednesday to Saturday at 6pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 4pm and 6pm. The Vault can be enjoyed as a standalone experience or added as a pre- or post-dinner pairing with a booking at Luke’s Kitchen, also located within Kimpton Margot Sydney.

For more information and bookings see www.kimptonmargotsydney.com/eat-and-drink/the-vault/

A Bali resort with something for everyone

Two nights at the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua looks like not being anywhere near enough. 

This an impressive luxury absolute beachfront resort with myriad restaurants and activities.

A full report will follow over the next few days but here are some happy snaps as I am hard at work gathering info.

https://sofitel.accor.com/en/hotels/9078.html 

# Hosted

JW Marriott hotel brand makes its New Zealand debut

Auckland is very much a place on the move, and New Zealand's largest city this week welcomed JW Marriott Auckland - the Marriott brand's first property in the country. 

JW Marriott is part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, and has unveiled the new JW Marriott Auckland in the heart of downtown Auckland. 

JW Marriott Auckland Executive Suite

JW Marriott Auckland was designed by renowned Singaporean architecture firm O37 and draws on New Zealand's art, culture, and natural beauty. 

Reflecting the shifting beauty of each season, the design weaves together contrasting textures: raw and polished, rough and smooth. 

This vision comes to life in Watersplash, a bespoke sculptural hand-blown chandelier by Lasvit, inspired by the rivers and lakes of New Zealand. 

"JW Marriott embraces the belief that a connection to the natural environment is an important part of nourishing one's soul," says Jason Nuell, area vice president for Marriott International.

" JW Marriott Auckland embodies the brand's commitment to providing a haven where guests can focus on feeling whole in mind, body, and spirit. It is a destination where both locals and international travelers can experience a blend of modern luxury and exceptional hospitality in the heart of the city to pause, recharge, and reconnect."

The hotel has 271 guest rooms and 15 suites along with and all guest rooms come complete with yoga mats and risers, enhanced by an in-room program of wellness and workout routines (sounds scary!)

The Wellness Centre includes a 14-metre-long heated indoor pool with panoramic harbour views and views of the centre of Auckland.

The hotel's elegant lobby bar, Forum, offers barista-crafted coffee and small bites and then transforms into a bar at night. 

The signature restaurant, Trivet, has head chef Wallace Mua showcasing flavours from different Polynesian cuisines. 

In September, the hotel plans to launch a contemporary teppan house celebrating impressive Japanese-inspired dishes.

"I am honoured to bring the JW Marriott vision of luxury and well-being to life in this vibrant city," says GM Girish Talreja. 

"Our goal is to create an exceptional guest experience and provide a sanctuary where guests can relax, recharge, and create lasting memories."

For reservations and more information, please see: www.jwmarriottauckland.com

A new look for a long-time Fijian favourite

Plantation Island Resort has long been a favoured destination for visitors to Fiji, and work is now underway to upgrade its facilities.

A "central facilities development" will begin this month and conclude by late 2026.

The work will introduce a range of new dining, wellness, and leisure experiences.

“The upcoming central facilities addition is a testament to our commitment to continually enhance the Plantation Island Resort experience,” said Lee Pearce, CEO of Raffe Hotels & Resorts.

“This development strikes the perfect balance between modern amenities and the authentic Fijian spirit that our guests cherish, making it a destination where every moment feels special.”

GM Rodney Samuels says: “With these upgrades, we’re ensuring that guests continue to experience world-class hospitality in a setting that reflects our rich cultural heritage and evolving needs.

“For many travellers, Plantation Island Resort is like a second home. So, with that in mind, each enhancement is designed with care to reflect the vibrant cultural heritage of Fiji, in a truly authentic setting, that we hope will appeal to both new visitors and the many generations of return guests we look forward to hosting each year."

Additions will include

• A new dining venue, Baravi Mediterranean Kitchen that will showcase Mediterranean flavours with a focus on an Italian woodfired pizza oven.

• Replacement of Brigham Bar with the beachfront bar re-created in a new location with enhanced offerings.

• A new buffet restaurant – The Copra Restaurant will be revamped.

• Expanded wellness facilities – Set to open this month, Senibua Spa will feature six treatment rooms offering a range of services designed by Debra Sandrau of Senikai Spas.

• New accommodation options with the resort adding six new beachfront bures and three new two-bedroom garden bures.

• A new pool will be lagoon style with a toddler’s pool and waterslide.

The resort’s dining options have also expanded with the opening of a la carte Tavola Restaurant & Bar and Bowl, a poke concept salad bar.

For more info see https://www.plantationisland.com/

Raffe Hotels & Resorts is a family-owned business that has been operating in Fiji for more than 50 years.

Meet an airport hotel with a very different vibe

It is fair to say that the Moxy Sydney Airport is not for everyone.

But if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, vibrant shared spaces and fun additions then chances are you'll enjoy it a lot.

Most airport hotels are soulless places with people stressed about having missed a flight, or getting up early enough to catch one.

In contrast, the Moxy Sydney Airport has a fun vibe, with guests clearly enjoying themselves in the colourful, and expansive, shared public spaces.

You check-in at the bar, drop back later for cocktails, when the bar can be rocking.

There are games, shared spaces and fast wifi. I'm told lots of corporates choose to hold meetings here. Mixing work with fun.

I've stayed at a couple of Moxy properties before: in Glasgow and at Milan Malpensa. Both shared the same vibe but were not quite as lively.

Opened 18 months ago, Moxy Sydney Airport has 301 designer rooms, cosy but well-equipped. Make sure you book one with a fridge if you need one as not all offer that facility. Rooms with runway views are also great for plane spotters. 

You'll find Moxy Kitchen, Moxy Bar, Little Baxter Café on the ground floor, along with facilities like meeting rooms of various dimensions, a fitness centre, and a guest laundry.

Look out for points of difference like a retro photo booth, the signature pink boxing bag in the gym and Moxy bikes available if you want to explore the area pre- or post-flight.

There are colourful artworks throughout, including work by local artists Elliot Rutledge and Evi O.

There are a variety of room styles, including family rooms with bunks, and room rates start from a very fair $219.

Free airport shuttle are available to either domestic or international terminals and there is also a shuttle to Mascot Station for those heading to the city. Services run every 20 minutes to the domestic terminal (4.45am to 10.50pm - very handy for our early flight) and to the international terminal (5am to 10.50pm).

Valet parking costs $25 for eight hours and $40 for overnight.

If you are prepared to self park then Stay a night you can park your car for five nights for free.

Moxy Sydney Airport’s new Park, Stay & Fly package is perfect for travellers seeking secure, hassle-free airport parking paired with a stylish stay and inclusive return airport shuttle.

The news is all good for locals who need their car at the airport for their return.

The car park is covered with 24/7 CCTV surveillance for extra peace of mind. The deal includes a free shuttle ride to the airport and back and, after your five free nights, you can choose from daily rates starting at $15, weekly rates from $100, or save up to 20% on extended monthly stays.

Travellers who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy group can unlock extra perks.

See www.moxysydneyairport.com +61 2 9132 4800.

* Moxy Sydney Airport will be joined by a second Moxy location in the city on Pitt Street in Sydney CBD later this year.

# The writer was a guest of Moxy Sydney Airport 

New look for centrally located ibis Perth

I probably would not want to stay in an ibis hotel for a couple of weeks. 

The rooms are usually pretty compact.  

But if you are looking for somewhere affordable to stay and will be out of your room for most of the day, then the range of ibis brands in the Accor portfolio do the trick - and offer all the facilities a tourist needs. 

I'm told that ibis Perth has undergone a "remarkable transformation", emerging as a contemporary retreat. 

I take claims that a makeover "redefines the economy hotel experience" with a pinch of salt. but the new look does present well. 

The renovations saw an upgrade of all 192 rooms and bathrooms, as well as the lobby and social spaces. 

The redesigned interiors incorporate locally sourced timber, drawing inspiration from Kings Park and Botanic Garden, the movement of the Swan River, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. 

Bathrooms feature rainfall showers, while the lobby has been transformed into a social hub and a new gym has also been opened. 

Located on Murray Street in the heart of Perth’s CBD, ibis Perth certainly has location on its side. 

Vincent Yeo, CEO of owners CDL Hospitality Trust said: “We are delighted to re-invigorate this hotel which will now offer a significantly upgraded guest experience in the central location that guests have always enjoyed. 

"Our extensive investment throughout the hotel has transformed it into a truly differentiated product in the Perth market.”

ibis Perth will also soon launch its brand-new bar and social hub, Chelsea Social, with music and craft cocktails. 

See ibis.com | all.com | group.accor.com

Sydney beachfront hotel earns global recognition

Beauty is very much in the eye of the beholder. 

To locals in the Sydney beach suburb of Manly, the Manly Pacific Hotel Sydney - MGallery Collection is a local spot with a bizarrely long name where they might wine and dine, or walk past on their nightly beach stroll. 

For the judges at the 10th annual Prix Versailles World Ceremony, held recently at UNESCO headquarters in Pari,s it was celebrated as one of the 16 most beautiful museums, hotels, restaurants, and airports in the world for 2024. 

The Prix Versailles is often described as the "Nobel Prize of Architecture and Design," and is judged by a panel of global architects, designers, and cultural leaders. 

Winners must "exemplify outstanding design, while reflecting local heritage, innovation, and sustainable practices".

Manly Pacific was one 16 hotels recognised, joining the likes of Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain, Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes, and Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel.

“I know how essential the use of time and space is to creating emotions, bonds and a sense of beauty," said Benjamin Millepied, chairman of the jury. 

"Similarly, architecture – through its design – shapes our lives, our interactions and even our dreams. Each building and each space that we are [honouring] has the power to transform our society, make our lives more harmonious and connected, and inspire us to better inhabit the world.”

In Manly, not surprisingly, they are delighted. 

"Winning the Prix Versailles is an extraordinary honour for the team at Manly Pacific, and is testament to how design can elevate hospitality into an art form,” said Dylan Cole, the hotel GM. 

“We are proud to be recognised on the global stage for creating a space that not only delights our guests, but also contributes meaningfully to the community and the environment."

The hotel recently completed a $30 million transformation to its "elevated coastal vibe". 

The latest addition is Cibaria restaurant, helmed by renowned chef Alessandro Pavoni of Ormeggio fame. 

See manlypacific.com.au or all.accor.com 

Summer, tennis and Champagne - with sweeping views

Summer, tennis and Champagne. Sounds like a pretty nifty combo.

The Sheraton Melbourne Hotel is celebrating summer, and the Australian Open, at its rooftop Terrace Bar in Melbourne's CBD in a partnership with Champagne house Piper-Heidsieck.

So think bubbles. chef-crafted bites (I think they mean snacks), and tennis live on TV.

Running until February 28 from 3-10pm daily (tough if if the match you are watching goes late) guests can watch the Australian Open live while enjoying views of the city.

There is a daily $20 Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Brut special, or a daily 'AO' happy hour from 4-6pm with an “Australian Open Cocktail” featuring Piper-Heidsieck.

This spritz combines elderflower, gin and Piper-Heidsieck Champagne for $20.

The Terrace Bar features a table tennis set-up (they are different sports, people), inviting guests to challenge friends or enjoy a casual game between sips of bubbly.

The Grand Slam Special is a $30 package that includes a glass of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne and s dish from a special menu (a small charcuterie board, perhaps, torched Hervey Bay ccallops:with corn pico de gallo and baby coriander; or sliced Prosciutto and stracciatella accompanied by fresh basil, olive oil, and focaccia.

The Sheraton is part of Marriott Bonvoy, the official hotel partner of the 2025 Australian Open, and is also offering special accommodation packages.

See https://www.marriott.com/offers/ace-escape-off-134135/melsi-sheraton-melbourne-hotel 

Very good boy heads into retirement

One of the most popular characters in the Melbourne hospitality industry is heading into retirement.

Mr Walker, the canine ambassador the Park Hyatt Melbourne, is hanging up his collar after years of loyal service as a greeter and companion.

Mr. Walker, a nine-year-old Labrador, will step into retirement in line with expert recommendations that guide dogs retire at this age to enjoy a relaxed and happy life.

During his tenure, Mr Walker earned several Employee of the Month awards - a testament to his dedication and charm.

He has been an official ambassador for Guide Dogs Victoria, who trained him before his hotel stint.  

He will continue to serve on his current schedule - Monday to Friday 3:30-5pm until January 16 - offering guests and staff with an opportunity to spend time with him.

To honour Mr Walker's contributions, Park Hyatt Melbourne is sharing his story and celebrating his legacy online and across social networks in the days leading up to his retirement.

Guests, staff, and the community are encouraged to share their memories and moments with him using the hashtag #ThanksMrWalker

“Mr Walker has been more than just our ambassador; he's been a friend, a source of comfort, and a beacon of joy for countless guests and team members over the years” said Oliver Kahf, the hotel general manager.

“We are grateful for all the happiness he has brought to our hotel and look forward to seeing him enjoy his well-deserved retirement.”

Mr Walker will be replaced by Charlie, a playful six-year-old Labrador who will join as the resident dog ambassador from February 20.

For more info visit www.hyatt.com.

Major milestone for a hotel with a 200-year history

 

One of Tasmania's most historic hotels will celebrate a milestone next year.

Luxury boutique hotel The Woodbridge Tasmania will mark the riverside building's 200th year in early 2025.

The Governor of Tasmania, Her Excellency The Honourable Barbara Baker AC and other dignitaries have been invited to mark the occasion at the grand mansion on February 2.

Hand built by convicts in 1825, on the riverbank at New Norfolk as a home for the first Constable/Magistrate of the fledgling colony, The Woodbridge is one of Australia's oldest historic houses.

Now a private hotel, The Woodbridge takes guests back in time to the colonial era - and it is just 30 minutes from Hobart.

Restored by Laurelle and John Grimley, who bought the property in 2003, the heritage-listed mansion was in a state of disrepair when the Grimleys first set eyes on it.

The couple stumbled upon the derelict Derwent Valley icon during a Tasmanian holiday.

" I am a Duchess of Duke Street and Downton Abbey tragic," says "and have seen the BBC series Pride and Prejudice so often that I can quote it verbatim!"

The Woodbridge offers delightful river views, a rich history, and a relaxed style.

Guests are well located to visit nearby Mount Field National Park, wineries including Derwent Estate and Stefano Lubiana, and just a 10-minute stroll to The Agrarian Kitchen for a long lunch.

The entire project was funded by the Grimleys personally without any government or Heritage funding.

"We realised that if The Woodbridge was to have a future, then it had to be able to pay its way," Laurelle said. 

"So we tried to combine the historical elements of The Woodbridge with the modern amenity required by today's guests."

For more info visit www.woodbridgenn.com.au

Meet an airport hotel with a room style for everyone

It is the time of the year when family groups travel together.

There may be young children who need an eye kept on them, or more elderly family members who appreciate being close.

The Moxy Sydney Airport Hotel, which recently celebrated its first birthday, has room configurations that fit just about any family need, along with a location with visibility along both Joyce and Qantas Drive. It offers easy connectivity to the Sydney CBD.

Along with 301 rooms it also houses Moxy Kitchen, Moxy Bar, Little Baxter Café, meeting rooms, a fitness centre, and a guest laundry. 

I've stayed at Moxy properties before - they usually have a fun vibe - and will be checking this one out in the new year. 

There are several different room types, including:

Moxy Queen Sleeper – 228 Rooms
Queen bed, bathroom, AC, safe, wifi, tea & coffee
Airport runway or city views – 18 sqm

MOXY Twin Sleeper – 51 Rooms
Two double beds, bathroom, AC, Safe, wifi, tea & coffee
Airport runway or city views – 20 sqm

MOXY LOFT Airport – 9 rooms
One queen and one single king bed, bathroom, mini fridge, AC, safe, wifi, tea & coffee
Airport runway or city views – 21 sqm

MOXY QUAD BUNKS – 8 Rooms
Four king single beds, bathroom, mini-fridge, AC, safe, wifi, tea & coffee. 

 Airport runway or city views - 21 sqm

MOXY KING SLEEPER – 5 Rooms
King bed, bathroom, mini fridge, AC, safe, wifi, tea & coffee.
Airport runway or city views 39 sqm

MOXY FAMILY ROOM – 5 Rooms
Two queen beds + 1 single king bed, two bathrooms, AC, one mini-fridge, safe, wifi, tea & coffee. Airport runway & city views

MOXY Family Bunkhouse – 4 rooms
Queen bed + four single bunk beds, two bathrooms, AC, one mini-fridge, safe, wifi, tea & coffee. Airport runway and city views.

For details see www.moxysydneyairport.com

New Yarra Valley luxury hotel unveiled

Elias Jreissati and his team at Levantine Hill are obsessive about quality. 

Whether it comes to architecture and design or food and wine, only best is good enough for the property tycoon and art collector.  

Now the Levantine Hill precinct in the Yarra Valley is preparing for a new arrival - a luxury boutique hotel on the banks of the river. 

Levantine Hill Hotel is set to open in June 2025 and will be part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection.

Within a short walk of the vines, the winery cellar door, fine dining restaurant and events centre, the new boutique hotel will offer 33 suites over two levels, each with its own living area, study and private balcony with stunning views over the vineyards and surrounding hills.

Eight of the suites will feature expansive circular baths while the Optume Suite (named after the winery's flagship label) will have its own dressing room, open fireplace, cellar and bar, making it a great choice for a bridal suite or cocoon for couples.

Designed by Australian architects, FK (aka Fender Katsalidis), the striking hotel embodies the “Genius Loci” as a guiding principle of Karl Fender’s original approach for Levantine Hill, drawing inspiration from wine barrels. 

With a strong commitment to sustainability, the hotel has been built using a range of natural materials throughout, as well as plants for privacy, the implementation of water harvesting and purification.

Guests will be able to enjoy access to multiple on-site heli pads (helicopter is the perfect way to arrive at Levantine Hill), a fully equipped indoor gym, an outdoor exercise area and a 1.5 km walking track which will wind through sculpture-filled gardens featuring over 30 world-class sculptures. 

Complimentary continental breakfast and a fully-stocked mini bar will be included in every stay.

For more information visit https://www.levantinehill.com.au/