New international hotel unveiled for Wollongong

Wollongong, a thriving city south of Sydney, is set to get a new international hotel courtesy of Asian-based group Minor Hotels. 

 
Minor Hotels will introduce its Avani Hotels & Resorts brand to Wollongong with the opening of Avani Wollongong Hotel in 2027, marking Avani’s first new-build property in New South Wales.

 
Located near transport links, the CBD and the city beach, the hotel will offer "contemporary rooms, locally inspired dining and flexible event space".

The new hotel sits close to Wollongong’s central transport hub, CBD and city beach. 

Avani Wollongong will also anchor a major mixed-use development by local developer Blaq Property Group, designed to leverage off the city’s growth. 

Minor Hotels has worked closely with Destination Wollongong to ensure the hotel aligns with the region’s long-term tourism strategy and supports major events.

“Having an internationally recognised brand commit its name and expertise here is a genuine vote of confidence in Wollongong’s trajectory," says Destination Wollongong CEO Jeremy Wilshire. 

"It also marks an early step towards the NSW Government’s goal of delivering an additional 40,400 hotel rooms by 2035, and Wollongong is well placed to be a key contributor.”

Blaq Property Group has made application to increase the number of guest rooms from 107 to 140, which is currently under assessment.

A ground-floor restaurant will serve "locally inspired flavours", while there will also be a bar and events spaces. 

“Avani Wollongong will be our first Avani-branded property in New South Wales and will bring a breath of fresh air to this vibrant south coast city,” says  Craig Hooley, Chief Operating Officer, Minor Hotels Australasia. 

“This development will fill a much-needed gap in new hotel growth in Wollongong and the Illawarra [region]. 

"The hotel is set to become part of the region’s next chapter, offering a world-class, contemporary stay for business and pleasure that delivers upscale positioning in a growing urban destination.”

For more info see www.avanihotels.com/en.

Hilton now has 25 different hotel brands

Global hotel giant Hilton has unveiled its 25th brand, the new Outset Collection by Hilton, which aims to capitalise on travellers’ growing appetite for boutique-like properties that don’t feel like chain hotels.

The new Outset Collection by Hilton will target upscale independent hotels looking to join a major chain.

Chris Silcock, Hilton’s president of global brands and commercial services, said the brand’s first hotel will be open and taking bookings in November.

The hotel group is in "active conversations with owners" at "more than 60 properties, Silcock said. Some have signed contracts, while others have commitments in place.

"The first hotel will be open and taking bookings in November," he said.

The new brand's long-term growth target encompasses more than 500 hotels in the US and Canada alone. 

Outset Collection by Hilton, which will include the Acme Hotel Chicago (above), will be the company’s eighth brand in its growing lifestyle portfolio. 

The collection’s first hotels will begin welcoming guests later this year, with bookings available on Hilton.com starting from next month. 

“At Hilton, we continue to reimagine what’s next in hospitality, and today, we’re delivering it," says Chris Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton. 

"Outset Collection is an expression of our commitment to growth, innovation and meeting the evolving needs of travellers around the world. 

"By expanding our Lifestyle portfolio, we are broadening the ways guests engage with Hilton and unlocking new possibilities for our owners, our teams and the communities we serve.”

Outset Collection will join a Hilton lifestyle portfolio which also includes NoMad, Canopy, Curio Collection, Graduate, Tapestry Collection, Tempo and Motto.

* Hilton has a portfolio of 25 brands comprising more than 9,000 properties and over 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Visit stories.hilton.com

High ambition: new hotel tower to elevate the Geelong waterfront

 

Geelong’s waterfront is about to soar to new heights, with construction underway on a new 11-storey hotel tower at Novotel Geelong.

The $75 million project, owned by ERDI Group, will add 134 new guestrooms, including 15 apartment-style suites, taking Novotel Geelong’s total offering to 243 rooms. 

Once complete, the hotel will become Geelong’s largest hotel. 

Located immediately south of the existing hotel, the new tower will feature a wellness centre and a 125-seat brasserie-style restaurant, designed to complement the hotel’s award-winning Tempo Kitchen & Bar, with both indoor and outdoor dining and 360-degree views above the bay. 

The hotel will also include 1,200 square metres of combined event space across both the existing hotel and new tower.

The project is being delivered by Melbourne-based Ireland Brown Constructions and designed by PACT Architects, with a brief to create a contemporary, future-focused addition to the Geelong skyline.

It comes at a time of rising visitor numbers to the Bellarine and Surf Coast, as Geelong cements its reputation as one of Victoria’s fastest-growing leisure and business destinations.

Since ERDI opened the hotel in 2001, Novotel Geelong has consistently been the top-performing hotel in the local market. 

“Geelong is undergoing an incredible transformation, and we see an exciting future ahead for the city as both a visitor destination and a business hub," says ERDI Group Chief Executive Officer Ricky Jeffs. 

"By creating Geelong’s largest and most impressive hotel, we’re not only elevating the Novotel Geelong experience but also making a long-term commitment to supporting the city’s growth and its thriving tourism economy. 

"This expansion is about future-proofing the hotel, ensuring we can meet the needs of business and leisure travellers for decades to come.”

Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Adrian Williams said: “Novotel Geelong has always been a place people love to stay, and this new tower will take the hotel to the next level. 

"It will put Geelong firmly on the map as one of Australia’s best destinations for conferences, events and tourism. We’re absolutely thrilled to be part of this landmark project with our long-term partner ERDI, whose vision and investment continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Geelong’s tourism and hospitality scene."

Accor is an international hospitality group offering stays across more than 110 countries with over 5,700 hotels & resorts, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. 

ERDI owns and operates several properties including Pullman Melbourne City Centre, Mercure Welcome Melbourne, Novotel Geelong, and Saint Kilda Beach Hotel. 

Hilton sets its sights on major Asian expansion

The Hilton hotels group has announced plans to significantly increase its presence across Asia.

It says its luxury and lifestyle hotel portfolio will increase by over 50% over the next few years, news portal Travel Mole reports.

Hilton currently has more than 160 luxury and lifestyle hotels in the region. The goal is to have around 250 Asia hotels in these segments.

In the next 12 months Hilton is set to open several new properties including the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan (top image); Canopy by Hilton Shanghai Belfry Plaza; Curio Collection by Hilton, Kahavadi Chiang Rai, and Nivata Koh Samui, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

The chain will unveil the Waldorf Astoria in Bali in 2027, and opens NoMad Singapore and Canopy by Hilton Makati in the Philippines in 2026.

Overall, seven Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts will open across Asia Pacific in the next few years. 

Additionally, Hilton inked a partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, boosting its portfolio with a large selection of independently owned luxury hotels across the globe.

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/  

Thai tourism glitches cause industry concern

Thailand's continued upward trajectory in the tourism industry has stuttered, provoking concern among hoteliers and other businesses.

Not only are there no positive factors supporting growth, but negative influences are compounding, The Nation newspaper in Bangkok reported.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported the number of foreign tourists between January 1-May 11 this year stood at 12,948,032 - a decrease of 1.04% compared to the same period last year.

But the growing strength of the Thai currency - making Thailand more expensive for visitors - as well as competition from several other Asian destinations is provoking concern, particularly a drop in visitors from China.

Thienprasit Chaiyaphatranan, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), has reported that most hoteliers expect a year-on-year decline in international guests in the traditional quieter second quarter of the year, especially in the central and southern regions. Around 25% of respondents expect the number of Chinese tourists to drop by more than 30%.

The average hotel occupancy rate in April 2025 was 63%, down from the previous month, in line with that drop in international arrivals, especially from China.

Chinese travellers are reportedly concerned about safety issues in Thailand.

But Thienprasit added that tourism in April remained vibrant, largely due to the Songkran Festival, which attracted both Thai and international tourists.

“At the same time, regional competitors like Vietnam and Malaysia are aggressively promoting tourism, offering incentives, cutting costs, and adjusting policies to attract more visitors,” he said.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) this week unveiled 12 travel campaigns tailored to a variety of lifestyle subcultures, aimed at boosting domestic tourism during the green season to counter falling international visitation.

But the Pattaya Mail has reported industry concerns about rising costs and reduced spending power among tourists who do visit Thailand and negative publicity, particularly after the high-profile kidnapping of a Chinese actor. 

Our Thai correspondent also points out assaults on foreign tourists by locals have generated adverse publicity.  

Image: Phuket: Nelly Lo.scopio.com  

Warning: US hotel staff could soon be on strike

Imagine booking a conference, or even a room, at a hotel and then finding that the staff are on strike.

More than 13,000 hotel workers in four US cities may vote for strikes in the coming weeks.

It is predicted that picket lines could disrupt meetings and conventions, travel media portal Skift reports.

Contract talks at Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Omni properties in Boston, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Providence, Rhode Island are currently underway.

Unite Here, the union representing the workers, said voting will begin on August 6 at 125 hotels in the four locations. 

If workers vote to authorise strikes, they could begin any time after contracts expire. Contracts in some cities have already expired, while others run out in the coming weeks.

In total, over 40,000 hotel workers with the Unite Here union have contracts up for renegotiation this year in more than 20 cities across the US and Canada. 

“Momentum is building for strikes this year because workers are at a breaking point while the hotel industry is making record profits,” said Unite Here International President Gwen Mills. 

Among the demands of workers are a raise in wages and the reversal of staffing cuts that have led to fewer employees doing more.

Any strike puts event planners in a tough spot. Cancelling or changing venues will cost money but many attendees may want to show support for workers.

Image: Marco Simola, Scop.io

Luxury on the banks of the Yarra River

The Yarra River meanders through the centre of Melbourne but somehow seems underutilised.

There are rowing crews training, sure, and the occasional river cruise, but largely it sits underappreciated and underused.

One Melbourne hotel that takes full advantage of its location right alongside the river is the excellent Pan Pacific Melbourne.

 

Not only is the hotel brilliantly located for enjoying the many waterfront bars and eateries at South Wharf, it offers expansive river views from most of its rooms. The views from mine are above (it was a grey Melbourne day, unfortunately). 

It is also right on the doorstep of the massive Direct Factory Outlet shopping facility, and the Melbourne Convention Centre.

Pan Pacific Melbourne is also just a short stroll along the riverbank from the Crown Casino and Southern Cross Station. So location, location, location.

Even entry level rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, along with en-suite bathrooms with both bath tubs and walk-in showers.

There is a choice of king-sized bed or twin beds and an executive writing table with ergonomic desk chair. Perfect for those who have work to do while staying. There are bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer, along with Balmain (Pierre not the Sydney suburb) toiletries.

Each room has a large LG LED television with local and cable channels and movies on demand; high-speed wifi. a safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a minibar if requested.

There are a range of packages available; per haps chocolate and bubbles in the room, or an afternoon high tea.

In my opinion is well worth upgrading your room choice, or being a member of Pan Pacific's Discovery club, to have access to the Pan Pacific Club during your stay.

Check into a Yarra Suite (above) for a seriously decadent getaway: a splendid view of the River, a separate lounge area, club lounge access and lots of little extras.

Access to the fourth-floor Pacific Club (above) offers a full buffet breakfast (very good it is, too). and the chance to enjoy canapes with cocktails in the evening, along with access to computers and a printer.

The evening spread is so good it can replace dinner if you don't want to leave the hotel.

Other Pacific Club benefits include all-day refreshments and pressing or dry cleaning of up to two pieces of clothing per room per night. There is a nice chilled vibe here.

Food and beverage outlets include Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen, Café Orr or 24-hour room service.

Did I mention the staff? I found them uniformly excellent; helpful and smiling across the board. 

Pan Pacific Melbourne is at 2 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne. Check out https://www.panpacific.com/

* The writer was hosted by Pan Pacific Melbourne 

Is this new brand your next hotel tribe?

Enjoy a colourful hotel vibe?

TRIBE, a design-led midscale brand from Accor, is about to make its New Zealand debut: in Auckland.

TRIBE Auckland Fort Street (it is their branding, I'm not shouting) will become the brand's first address in the country "serving as a stylish destination where guests and locals can work, play, and relax with a like-minded community of entrepreneurs and adventurous travellers".

The new hotel is located on Fort Street, just a short walk from central Britomart and the Commercial Bay precinct.

It will have 60 guest rooms described as "compact but ultra-comfy", along with a lobby bar, terrace, and social hub.

The media blurb says TRIBE Auckland Fort Street "will prioritise intelligent, functional, design-driven spaces that give guests everything they need and nothing they don't".

Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer PM&E, Adrian Williams, said: “The introduction of TRIBE to New Zealand underpins our expansion strategy throughout the region - to introduce brands and hotels that respond to the needs and wants of modern travellers.

“Today's travellers seek simplicity, affordability, and connectivity in a design-led environment. They know that comfort and fair prices can co-exist and that's exactly what TRIBE hotels offer - spaces that are smart, stylish and comfortable, at a great price.

“We are excited to partner with CP Group to introduce this one-of-a-kind concept to New Zealand with TRIBE Auckland Fort Street. With its bold personality and socially connected culture, the hotel will become a hub that excites and inspires both travellers and locals.

“We know that TRIBE will resonate both with domestic and international guests in New Zealand and look forward to debuting the brand's first address here.”

TRIBE currently has over 15 hotels across the globe with a further 40 currently under development, including flagship addresses in France and the UK.

The Australian-born brand has one hotel in Australia - in Perth - but has been largely focussed on European destinations, particularly in Paris suburbs.    

See ALL.com for more details, or take a look at https://tribehotels.com/en/.

Sofitel sparkles for its 60th birthday

Sofitel properties are generally stylish - and very French accented.

This year, Sofitel celebrates its 60th anniversary and to mark diamond jubilee in style, the hotel brand has unveiled a collaboration with Place Vendôme-based jeweller Courbet.

The jewellery will showcase lab-grown diamonds and offer “a luxurious expression of the shared values that unite the two Maisons".

Sofitel boasts a strong environmental commitment - the ecological certification of its hotels, the removal of single-use plastics and the management of food waste.

Courbet, founded in 2018, also has a focus on sustainability. It's lab-grown diamonds come with the same gemological certificates as their mined counterparts, and with the same qualities determined by the 4Cs: carat, cut, colour and clarity.

“At Sofitel, we believe in a hospitality where luxury goes hand in hand with sustainability: in other words, luxury that inspires not only through its elegance, but also through its commitment to environmental and societal responsibility," says Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems (quite a job title Maud).

"The partnership between Sofitel and Courbet seemed like a natural fit to celebrate our 60th anniversary, our diamond jubilee, bringing together two Maisons anchoring French excellence in an eco-conscious approach.

"From this encounter emerged an exclusive collection of jewelry, featuring Sofitel's logo in bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings - pieces of jewellery that are both beautiful and socially responsible. We are thrilled to see this collaboration come to life today.”

The jewellery can be seem at sofitelboutique.com and in the brand's hotels worldwide.

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts was established in 1964 and was the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France. It has over 120 hotels around the world.

When hotels do their best to alienate their own guests

Hotels are supposed to be in the "hospitality" business. 

Their marketing will tell you what an important guest you are - and how much your custom is valued. 

The reality, however, is that some hotels - not all - see guests as cash cows to be milked as much as possible. 

A recent post on the Threads social media site underlined this. 

Here is the post: "Check in at my hotel today is at 1500, which is in 37 minutes' time. The room is cleaned, prepped and ready for me but I’ve been told I have to pay extra to check in now, so I’m currently sat in the lobby like a wally counting down the minutes. I genuinely can’t figure out the logical reason for this. Anyone know the answer?"

I have that answer. Greed. The hotel manager imposing that policy is an idiot. 

If a hotel room is ready ahead of time, there is absolutely no reason why a guest should not be given access. 

The paying customer will feel good, instead of being annoyed. Making her or him more likely to return or show brand loyalty. 

Can any hotel manager explain this peculiar intransigence? 

Image: Irma Calabrese, Scop.io

New look and new eatery at Peppers Marysville

Yarra Valley hotel Peppers Marysville has a new look and a new restaurant after an extensive refurbishment. 

Operated by Accor, the largest hotel operator in Australia, the property has a new entrance and reception area, updated guestrooms, a reimagined day spa, new restaurant and refreshed conference facilities. 

There is also a new dedicated bike zone to cater for the many cyclists visiting the resort.

"We take great pride in the transformative refurbishment of Peppers Marysville," said Accor Pacific CEO Sarah Derry. 

"Is fresh new look enriches the hotel experience to an entirely new level and complements the high quality of service provided by the hotel team."

Shakespeare Property Group Head of Hospitality Asset Management & Investments, Richard Saab, said: "We are thrilled to unveil the exciting refurbishment of Peppers Marysville, as we continue to elevate our guest experience to new heights. 

"The renovations focus on creating an environment that celebrates the essence of Marysville, providing a spectacular personalised experience and transforming the resort into a destination for both guests and locals alike."

Each of the 100 rooms and suites have been updated with new fixtures, furnishings and carpets. 

The hotel’s new signature restaurant is the Italian-inspired Andiamo, which serves a local and seasonally-inspired menu and Yarra Valley wines. 

Diners can sample dishes like house-made pappardelle with duck, verjuice and radicchio ragu, and authentic wood-fired pizzas created by chef Francesco La Mazza. 

The Wellness Spa offers a range of holistic treatments and therapies using custom oils and products featuring Australian natural botanicals. 

The new bike zone that features a hot water bike wash station and secure bike workshops for repairs or servicing.

Marysville is located just 90 minutes from Melbourne in the forested foothills of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range. 

The new-look Peppers Marysville has rates starting from $229 per night. To book, visit ALL.com

Landmark Sydney hotel to get a major makeover

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth - which was once Sydney's first "grand" hotel - is to be given a major makeover.

Recently acquired by a fund managed by global investment firm KKR in strategic partnership with Futuro Capital and Marprop Real Estate Investors, the hotel's $60 million refurb is scheduled to commence in January and be completed by spring 2024.

With a storied history spanning over half a century, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has been a feature of Sydney's urban landscape since its inception as the Wentworth Hotel in 1966. It was later called the Sheraton Wentworth. 

The Wentworth was Sydney's first five-star international hotel and encapsulated the essence of 1960s and 70s jet-set glamour as Sydney first emerged as a global destination.

“We are excited to reignite and add layers to the history of this landmark hotel," said hotel GM Sam Panetta.

"The repositioning of the Sofitel will enhance the luxury services on offer and reinforce the value of the brand.”

Led by architecture and interior design firm Fender Katsalidis - which also designed Sydney's MONA and the landmark Levantine Hill in the Yarra Valley - the refurbishment of the heritage-listed property includes a comprehensive redesign of all 436 guest rooms and suites, corridors, club lounge and lobby areas.

Key to the refurbishment is the introduction of a completely new world-class dining precinct, including new restaurants and bars.

Karen Morris, associate principal for Fender Katsalidis, says: “We are honoured to be a part of the refurbishment of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, an iconic landmark on the Sydney skyline.


"Our design vision is to revitalise the guest experience while preserving the hotel's rich cultural and social heritage, re-establishing its position as a luxury hotel destination. We are excited to be part of this city-shaping project that will breathe new life and vibrancy into this part of Sydney.”

New Moxys are arriving like buses

Sydney waited a while for its first Moxy hotel. Now a second one is on the way.

The new-build Moxy Sydney Pitt Street is expected to feature 314 rooms and will be located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, close to Pitt Street Mall and Martin Place.

The new Moxy hotel will also feature Sydney's highest outdoor rooftop bar on level 34.

Once opened, the hotel will join a growing collection of more than 140 Moxy hotels across the world and will be Marriott International's eighth hotel in the greater Sydney area. That includes the recent Moxy arrival at Sydney Airport.

New-build Moxy Sydney Pitt Street expects to feature
314 rooms, located in the heart of Sydney's CBD

“Moxy is renowned the world over as a high-energy hotel experience that breaks the rules and makes travel fun,” says Richard Crawford, Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific.

“It's a brand that absolutely belongs in the heart of Sydney, where the city's iconic attractions and urban excitement make for a perfect base for our fun-hunters.

“There is no place more challenging in Australia to secure new hotel footholds than Sydney CBD. The project reflects the capability and tenacity of the hotel development consortium, led by Metrics, Rebel Property Group, Pelligra Group and Mustaca Group.

Moxy Sydney Pitt Street is anticipated to feature a restaurant and bar, gym, meeting rooms, a grab-and-go concept (that's 'takeaway' for simple folk)

Marriott's existing portfolio of Sydney hotels includes brands such as Sheraton, Autograph Collection, W Hotels, Marriott Hotels, Four Points by Sheraton and Courtyard by Marriott.

For more information see https://moxy-hotels.marriott.com/

How hotels could cut their costs - and prices - right now

I recently stayed in a hotel with an in-room trouser press.

A trouser press.

In all the years I have stayed in hotels I cannot recall ever having used a trouser press.

The same with in-room alarm clocks.

So many times have I been woken at 4am by these infernal gadgets that I now unplug them when I enter a room, giving me an extra power socket I can use.

So why do hotels persist in giving guests facilities they no not want, and do not need?

Many hotels could save costs, and reduce prices to customers, if they gave them only what they want in a room. Which in my case is a bed, a shower that works, a toilet, decent light, a chair, a desk, accessible power/USB points and fast, free wifi.

That's it. I rarely use the kettle and the free tea and coffee, as I am uncertain how often the unit has been cleaned. Others may feel differently.

Nearly every hotel room has a solid landline phone. But who uses them nowadays, particularly as they are often designed so you need to dial 1 # 101 to get a line, or 1 # 2345 to talk to room service?

Nearly everyone who travels nowadays has their own mobile/cell phone, which includes an alarm function that is easy to use.

But still 95% of rooms have those big old clunky pieces of uselessness - which need to be cleaned daily and for which the hotel often charges you an arm and a leg to use.

Likewise, who needs pay-per-view TV options? If you travel you can almost certainly stream from your own device rather than paying $9.99 for a dodgy porn film that will earn yuo a wry smile when you check out..

There are others; fax machines in business centres, for instance. When did you last use a fax machine?

How about individual sewing kits? Ever used one?

And don't get me started on "resort charges" imposed when you are checking in at 11pm and out at 6am and the facilities you are being charged for - like swimming pools - are not available.

There is also the question of minibars with $10 mini bottles of gin, $6 packets of potato crisps and $8 beers. These need to be checked, and re-stocked every single day, which is why their contents are so expensive.

Put a vending machine somewhere people, have a few packets of food behind the reception desk, or just give your guests empty fridges they can stock themselves.

In room stationery? Bin it. Ear plugs? Only if a hotel is particularly noisy. All those extra cushions? no thanks. 

Come on hotels. Listen to your customers. You could save money and so could we.

Image: Kristina Borzova, Scop.io

Thai-based hotel group spreads its wings

The Thailand-based hotel group Minor Hotels is developing into a into a major international force.

Minor Hotels is an international hotel owner, operator, and investor currently with more than 540 hotels in operation in 56 countries under brands including Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, NH Collection and NH Hotels.

Minor Hotels this week announced its arrival in the French capital with plans for a trio of four-star Paris hotels.

The group will launch the properties under its NH Hotels and NH Collection brands.

The hotels will be with the 207-key NH Paris Gare de l’Est (above) and the 103-key NH Opéra Paris Faubourg.

The third property has 80 rooms and will open as NH Paris Champs-Elysées. It will then be launched in 2025 as an NH Collection property following a renovation.

“We believe this is an amazing opportunity to grow with two of our brands in the second most-visited city in the world and home to the 2024 Olympics,” said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels.

The three Paris hotels will join Minor Hotels’ six properties across France in Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse and Nice.

Outside France, other recent openings from NH brands include NH Collection Milano CityLife in Italy, and NH Collection Frankfurt Spin Tower in Germany.

"Our team has been searching for the right opportunities in this key market for some time, so we are pleased to announce that, together with Swiss Life AM, Minor Hotels will arrive in Paris not with one but with three hotels," said Rajakarier.

Meet Sydney's dramatic new five-star hotel

Sydney has a dramatic new luxury hotel with the opening this week of W Sydney, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of over 30 brands.

You can't miss it: the biggest W in the world, it is a dramatic curved structure rising over Darling Harbour, dominating l the skyline when viewed from the water.

“The debut of W Sydney, our third W hotel in Australia, signals a new era for the brand,” said Sean Hunt, area vice president Australia, New Zealand & Pacific for Marriott International.

“With a fresh take on luxury, W Sydney's dynamic design, 'Whatever/Whenever' service ethos, imaginative dining and bars and creative guest programming will bring an exciting new energy to this vibrant Darling Harbour precinct.”

An illuminated vertical promenade sweeps guests up into Living Room, a space that Marriott says "reinvents the conventions of a traditional lobby by turning it into a social hub".

W Sydney's has 588 guest rooms, including 162 suites - more than any other hotel in the city.

Each room has W bathrobes, Davines bath amenities and the latest in technology with 55-inch LED TVs, sound systems and complimentary wifi. 

W Sydney offers a 24-hour concierge services, in-room dining and dry cleaning and laundry services. 

The new hotel has four dining and bar venues across three levels. while AWAY Spa has five treatment rooms and FIT Gym is complete with Technogym equipment (not sure what that means, but it sounds impressive).

There is also a 30-metre open-air infinity pool showcasing a giant jellyfish motif.



Located close to Sydney's International Convention Centre, the hotel has event space across eight rooms.

“W Sydney reimagines luxury for a new era, creating a vibrant new scene for Sydneysiders and visitors to the city,” says general manager Craig Seaward.

“It's a complete departure from the city's traditional hotels and this unique W spirit is something you feel at every touchpoint, from our eclectic venues to the cool blue rooms and high energy programming."

For more information see wsydney.com

Australia to gain another new hotel brand

Hotel brands are proliferating at amazing rate - and Australia is about to gain another one.

Ennismore, which operates 137 hotels across 17 brands, with 137 currently operating hotels in 35 countries, has unveiled plans for Hyde Perth, the first Hyde brand property in Australia, which is due to open next year.

Ennismore is pairing with Ark Capital Partners and Kyko Group for a hotel with "bohemian chic rooms" and "innovative dining concepts'.

Located on Pier Street in the heart of the CBD, Hyde Perth will have 120 guest rooms, including 18 suites, two dedicated meetings and events spaces, a destination restaurant, and a bar that opens onto an outdoor pool area.

The restaurant will, of course, "draw on the freshest Western Australian produce".

With roots in the Los Angeles A club scene of the early 2000s, the Hyde brand is synonymous with music and nightlife.

Hyde Perth will join a collection of Hyde properties in destinations ranging from Miami to Dubai to Ibiza. New Hyde hotels are also currently planned for Queenstown (the one in New Zealand, not the one in Tasmania), London and Bodrum in Turkey.

“We are thrilled to partner with Ennismore to bring the first Hyde Hotel to Perth, a city that is renowned for its progressive culture, quality cuisine, and creative pulse, because the Hyde brand fits perfectly with this seductive Perth vibe,” said Mark Bullock, Ark Capital Partners Managing Director for Acquisitions & Asset Management.

“We will work with the Ennismore team to ensure that every inch of the hotel is designed to create a sense of connection and creativity to unlock its full potential.”

See ennismore.com

Image: Hyde Beach House, Hollywood, Florida.

Hotel brand shows it has a heart

 

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is running its annual Kilo of Kindness campaign for the month of October, collecting community donations of clothes, food, toys, and school supplies in support of charitable organisations.

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer and Mövenpick Hotel Hobart are inviting guests, visitors, and members of their local communities to bring in one or more kilos of pre-loved and soon-to-be-reloved donations.

“Mövenpick believes in the power of food as a force for good and a medium for positive change, so we invite you to bring a bag of donations to one of our participating hotels,” said Kishan Chandnani, global vice president, premium brands, for Accor.

“Each year, Kilo of Kindness gives us the opportunity to weave the warm Mövenpick spirit of generosity more deeply throughout our communities. The campaign allows us to reach beyond our hotel walls and share our food - along with clothing, toys, and school supplies – with those most in need, bringing more smiles to the faces in our communities.”

This year, Mövenpick's Kilo of Kindness aims to gather 25,000 kilos of donations, across 77 participating Mövenpick hotels around the world - a record number of destinations.

“Acts of kindness really do hold weight," says Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer general manager Cory Norris-Jones.

"Our team is delighted to receive donations on behalf of our local charity, Food For Families, throughout October.

"Simply load a bag with a kilo or more of donations, drop it off at our hotel and leave with a warm smile and a lighter heart.

"It's an easy way to do good, feel good, and keep the good vibes going around Melbourne.”

In Hobart, GM Andrew Walling says: "Our team is proud to support Kilo of Kindness again this year. Hobart is a large community and this is one of many opportunities where we can give back to our amazing city.

"“We are humbled to work with the Hobart Women's Shelter as our charity this year, assisting them in supporting women and children in need. Hotel guests and locals alike are welcome to drop off goods to the hotel lobby throughout October. Every kilo counts.”

Kilo of Kindness donations may be delivered to Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer and Mövenpick Hotel Hobart throughout October.

See www.movenpick.com/en/kilo-of-kindness.

A Sydney hotel where the old and the new blend seamlessly

Shopping at the Queen Victoria Building is just a short stroll away. Lunch in Chinatown: an easy walk. Hyde Park: just across the road.

The Porter House Hotel – MGallery has one of Sydney's best locations on its side, as well as some very friendly staff.

Open for just over 12 months, Porter House has received some very solid reviews from friends and colleagues - and it certainly met expectations for our recent stay.

This is a genuine blend of the old and the new, with wining and dining options in old former Porter House - a restored 1870s heritage-listed building with a striking heritage façade, and luxury accommodation over the first 10 floors of the 26-storey multi-use high-rise tower next door.

 
Commissioned in 1876 by Australian tobacco peddler Hugh Dixson, The Porter House began life as Dixson & Sons tobacco factory and warehouse.

In 1891, furniture manufacturer WW Campbell & Co and famous leather merchant George Johnson & Sons leased the building from the Dixson family.

"The redeveloped Porter House precinct plays with the concept of intriguing contrasts," says hotel GM Joleen Hurst.

"By placing two extraordinary buildings together, we have created something remarkably original that we hope local, interstate and international guests will be fascinated by.”



My verdict is that this is an effortlessly chic place to wine, dine and stay.

A new walkway links the two buildings - bridging historic and contemporary. 

There is a definite boutique feel with just 122 guest rooms and suites.

Classic and superior rooms have king beds and a large televisions and all hotel guests have access to a well-appointed fitness centre and 12.5sqm heated pool located on level 11 of the hotel.

 
The rooms are very high-tech, so you need to push buttons to open or close window blinds and turn lights on and off. Probably best to familiarise yourself with the tech before stumbling into your room after a long dinner.

There are three food and beverage venues: the casual Henry's Bread and Wine on the ground floor for coffees and all-day dining, or perhaps a glass of wine.

Dixson & Sons is named after building's founding merchant family and serves breakfasts and dinners, occupies the first floor of the building.

It was closed the night we stayed, but were very impressed with the a la carte breakfasts - a rarity nowadays and it is so nice not to have jostle at a buffet, or wait for a super-slow toaster.

As is the case at reception, the staff are super hospitable.

Spice Trader, a cocktail bar, is on the top level, above floors dedicated to function spaces and private dining.

Porter House Hotel - MGallery is the 11th MGallery-branded hotel in Australia and New Zealand and join a network of 112 MGallery hotels across 36 countries globally.

The Porter House Hotel – MGallery, 203 Castlereagh St, Sydney. (02) 8236 8888 www.theporterhouse.com.au

Top image: Steve Woodburn