On April 13th Qualia celebrated its six month anniversary, marking 213 days in operation, and some 3,000 guests through its front gates. Often called Australia’s first ’six star’ property, the luxurious all-villa resort on the northern tip of Hamilton Island has already made a mark on the Great Barrier Reef experience. qualia got off to a running start, managing to hit 60% occupancy, with the average stay at the four night mark, and already seeing a 10% returning guest rate. This high-end Whitsunday compound sits on 20 acres of land, and so far features 27 ‘Windward Pavilions’ and one Beach House. Come June, 32 additional ‘Leeward Pavilions’ will also grace the qualia compound, along with a helipad, dock and secondary entry point. In the six months of operations, the ultra-deluxe resort has seen 6,000 room nights, five major conferences and numerous local and international celebrities – though they’re keeping mum on names. Expect to see more out of this very Australian resort as it gears up to launch itself overseas.

NEW YORK - March 21, 2005 — Wealthy consumers, take note as you make vacation plans for summer! Ritz-Carlton earned highest honors as the most prestigious brand in its segment, according to the new luxury hotel survey from the New York, NY-based Luxury Institute. Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are truly in a class by themselves as the strongest luxury hotel and resorts brands in the 2005 Luxury Brand Status Index survey. The Institute only surveys wealthy consumers with household incomes above $200K and average net worth of at least $2 million.Fifteen luxury hotel and resorts brands were rated overall including:

• Fairmont
• Four Seasons
• Inter-Continental
• Le Meridien
• Leading Hotels
• Loews
• Mandarin Oriental
• Orient Express
• Park Hyatt
• Peninsula
• Ritz-Carlton
• Rockresorts
• Rosewood
• St. Regis
• W Hotels

“Prestige ratings are based on the tangible and intangible experiences that luxury brands deliver to their customers and prospects,” said Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute. “Ritz-Carlton consistently outperformed the competition in all four critical attributes of a luxury brand, scoring an overall rating of 81 vs. 77 for Four Seasons and 66 for St. Regis. According to the wealthy surveyed, many other “luxury hotel brands” need to go to school on these winners and improve their performance significantly.”Ritz-Carlton rated a strong first in terms of delivering consistently superior quality, a mere cost of entry in the luxury category. Four Seasons was a strong second. The rest of the field rated well below these two top brands.

On exclusivity and uniqueness, a critical indicator that truly defines a luxury brand, Ritz-Carlton also scored highest, with Four Seasons second. Mandarin Oriental came in third.

Social status is a taboo discussion topic among the wealthy. Yet, they still crave it. With regard to being brands “that are used by people who are admired and respected”, a measure of the social status that a true luxury brand possesses, Ritz took the highest honors with Four Seasons a close second and St. Regis placed third.

The overall customer experience is one of the most critical factors in a brand’s measure as a luxury brand. Ritz took top honors, yet again, in “making the buyer feel special”. Four Seasons again came in a solid second, again followed by St. Regis.

Unlike wannabe luxury consumers, the rich are very savvy and unforgiving with respect to value for money. They are not called “the smart money” for nothing. When the Luxury Institute mapped each brand’s value index to each brand’s worthiness of a significant price premium, Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons were rated by far to be the brands most worthy of a significant price premium. Two other major price/value brand clusters emerged from the research.

The upside for Ritz-Carlton is that the brand just keeps getting stronger. Rich people rated it highest on having improved its status as a luxury brand in the past 12 months. W Hotels came is a strong second on luxury brand status improvement.

The proprietary Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) is the only measure available of the value and equity of leading luxury brands to wealthy Americans, based on statistically meaningful data collected from wealthy consumers themselves. The LBSI incorporates four main “pillars” of value: consistently superior quality, exclusivity, a measure of enhanced social status, and a measure of the ability of a brand to make a customer “feel special”. Seven point scale ratings are converted to a 0-100 scale.

The Luxury Institute is an in-depth research, subscription-based organization that focuses solely on the top 10% of America’s wealthy.

Inspired by the iconic all-white, ten-layer Westin Heavenly Bed, United’s first and business class p.s. service between New York and California will include a signature oversized Heavenly blanket and pillow - bringing a new level of luxury and comfort to flying. The Westin Renewal Lounge areas will provide Red Carpet Club guests with a soothing environment with many spa-like amenities for relaxing and escaping the hustle and bustle of an airport.

“Who would have thought our signature Heavenly bedding would reach 35,000 feet? We are thrilled to be the first hotel company to partner with an airline, bringing our highly regarded bed amenities to travelers in flight,” said Sue Brush, senior vice president of Westin Hotels & Resorts. “At Westin, we continually strive to provide the services and amenities that make guests feel renewed. Through this exciting new partnership we can reach beyond our doors and help United’s p.s. customers relax in luxury during their travels, whether in the sky or on the ground in a United Red Carpet Club.”

“It is important that when our guests spend their valuable time with United, they feel relaxed and rewarded,” added Graham Atkinson, executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer, United Airlines. “By partnering with Westin, we can welcome aboard our first and business class guests with luxurious pillows and blankets, and treat some of our Red Carpet Club visitors to a calming oasis that feels miles away from the airport. No other airline in the U.S. can offer this level of hotel-branded luxury today, and we are proud to offer it to our valued guests first.”

From ASIATravelTips.com

The award-winning concept presents in-flight menus by the country’s most renowned chefs from different regions which change every three months.

Chef Rischmeyer’s menu from the “Riviera of Lake Lucerne” features the light, aromatic gourmet cuisine he serves at The Park Hotel Weggis, celebrating the traditions of France blended with new concepts from Asia and the Mediterranean.

The menu will be served aboard selected SWISS International Airline routes worldwide from 19 March to 31 May 2008.

Chef Rischmeyer earned a Michelin star in the newly-released “Guide Michelin Switzerland 2008″ last year - just a year after taking the helm of the resort’s acclaimed Gourmet-Restaurant Annex.

The gastronomic accolade marked a culinary milestone for the historic 5-star, Relais & Châteaux hotel, which has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation.

Set in rolling parkland with its own private beach on Lake Lucerne, a short drive from Zurich, the award further boosted the resort’s prestige among Europe’s leading hotels.

Chef Rischmeyer’s menus focus on market-fresh seasonal products, combined with a rich variety of herbs and flavors, and “a grand portion of passion and sophisticated skill”.

The multi-talented 35 year-old chef has made his mark at numerous renowned German and Swiss restaurants throughout his career.

Born in Wismar, Germany, Chef Rischmeyer has already earned Restaurant Annex a 15 point GaultMillau ranking.

Peter Kämpfer, Manager of the Park Hotel Weggis, said, “This latest recognition from SWISS International Airline further endorses our reputation as one of Switzerland’s most sought after dining destinations.”

Passionate wine lovers are also in their element at the Park Hotel Weggis, which boasts one of the largest wine cellars in Switzerland with more than 2,600 wines and wine cabinets in each suite featuring such premium vintages as Premier Grand Cru Classé from Bordeaux, Château d’Yquem and Australia’s legendary ‘Grange Hermitage’.

The latest renovation of Park Hotel Weggis complements its 43 original rooms with ten new generously-sized Adara suites, all with stunning alpine views from private terraces and a host of designer features.

The grand luxury hotel also renowned for its newly established ‘Sparkling Wellness & Cosmetics’ spa incorporating private Asiatic SPA-Cottages for beauty treatments, fitness, massage and a range of therapies. Unique spa treatments include traditional Tibetan massage and healing, and a ‘Med Beauty’ centre for anti-ageing skin treatment.

From ASIATravelTips.com

A luxurious resort set on 36 lush, secluded acres, the mile-long enclave where verdant tropical jungle meets pure white, pristine beach is a perfect sanctuary. A naturalist’s paradise, the resort features protected mangrove reserves and crystal-clear water from tranquil lagoons and streams, highlighted by a spectacular cenote, a deep, freshwater reservoir sacred to the ancient Mayan that serves as the resort’s centerpiece. Ideally situated, the resort is only 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen in bustling Riviera Maya, with its dining, entertainment, specialty shops and boutiques, and just a 30-minute drive from Cancún International Airport.

Travelers who want to be among the first to experience Mandarin Oriental’s newest luxurious hideaway in Riviera Maya can take advantage of the special offer which is valid through 30 April 2008, excluding 14-17 February and 20-24 March and is subject to availability. Room rates range from US$700.

Perfectly placed along natural waterways that blend seamlessly into the secluded setting, the 128 luxuriously appointed guest rooms are situated in contemporary-styled bungalow villas or two-storey villas, offering the ultimate in peace and tranquility. All guest rooms enjoy exceptional water views of the mesmerizing cenote, the tranquil lagoon, the meandering waterways or the Caribbean Sea. A haven for total privacy, each room encompasses its own spacious, private terrace or garden, some with individual plunge pools and all with secluded garden bathrooms.

A variety of restaurants and bars serve an eclectic selection of contemporary cuisine in settings inspired by outstanding ocean views, al fresco seating and dynamic design. Ambar, the resort’s signature restaurant, offers creative international cuisine influenced by sophisticated Mexican and Asian fare. Just above Ambar is the chic M-Bar, a hip and sophisticated outdoor bar and lounge serving exotic libations and cool ocean breezes. Panoramic ocean views define the beach club restaurant Aguamarina; for the freshest catch of the day, guests can head to the beachfront Ceviche Cha Cha Cha; spa cuisine and healthy fare is found at Café Mayana, and the Lobby Lounge is a stylish retreat for early evening cocktails.

The 25,000-square-foot Spa at Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya embodies the riches of Mayan philosophy, blended with Asian-rooted healing rituals. The extensive offerings provide a combination of spa, beauty and heat experiences, as well as rasul, hamam, vitality and watsu pools, kinesis, traditional Mayan temazcal and Time Rituals – personalized journeys booked in blocks of time.

Guests can choose from three swimming pools fronting the ocean or spa, while beachfront water sports on-site including kayaking, snorkeling and deep sea fishing, as well as use of the private pier for yachts and sailboats. Off premise activities and sports can be arranged, from scuba diving to sailing, windsurfing, horseback riding or championship golf nearby. For those looking to explore the wondrous sites of an ancient land which flourished thousands of years ago, impressive and significant Mayan archeological and cultural sites are within easy reach.

With a dedicated space for their own exploration and amusement, “Young Fans” will find the Kid’s Club a welcome retreat with a range of activities for children and teens. A more comprehensive program combining education and fun is available for kids from ages 4 to 12.

From ASIATravelTips.com

Interior designer Khuan Chew is the creative talent behind the stunning interiors at Jumeirah’s Burj Al Arab. Each suite represents a glamorous ‘home from home’ with comfort key to the experience. All six suites mirror a similar style but with subtle changes demonstrated through individually commissioned art works by British artists. On entering, guests are welcomed via private lobbies complete with mini-bar, sweeping through to spacious lounges. Timber floors line the living spaces cocooned by rich upholstered couches, dark wood furniture and hand tufted rugs. Vivid reds, aubergines and warm natural woods emulate high glamour throughout.

As night falls the suites’ bedrooms are the perfect reside. Large beds are flanked by elegant, embossed leathers, layered against a slick chrome wall. In contrast, timber and leather clad walls surround. A modern take on the chandelier floats above the bed as a focal point with a contrasting uber-modern rose print carpet beneath. Attention to design is key, from chrome studding detail set into the leather walls, gothic bolsters and sumptuous bed linens, to the luxurious swathes of curtain with striking multi-tonal designs.An element of light and space is brought through to the suites’ striking bathrooms, which now exist as the largest within the hotel. Guests can unwind in deep infinity baths looking out across a breath-taking London skyline. Deep red marble highlights the glass and mirrored architecture of the bathrooms with a slick and modern edge. Amenities include double sinks and a concealed toilet and shower area.In addition to these exclusive suites the Jumeirah Carlton Tower has unveiled 92 refurbished rooms created by UK design team Hunt, Hamilton, Zuch. These include four stunning suites created with well-being in mind. Guests will enter an uplifting light space of ivory beige and caramel, where in addition to ethereal sleeping areas the suites’ signature bathrooms are the perfect setting for serious relaxation. Bathrooms feature organic lines with freestanding stone pebble baths and sinks, ergonomically designed to optimize comfort and rest. For those wanting to kick back and watch TV, discreet screens can be found throughout, including an impressive pop-up TV at the foot of the bed and mirror vision concealed televisions in the bathroom.

Throughout the hotel’s fifth to eight floors Hunt Hamilton Zuch has injected a fresh and contemporary feel into a collection of rooms and suites. Colour-ways of blue biscuit, rust biscuit and aqua chocolate are fused with warm caramels, and European oak fittings with Philippe Stark features give a light, airy and contemporary feel to all rooms. The newly styled suites also optimise the breathtaking cityscape views of which the Jumeirah Carlton Tower is renowned for. Guests can unwind among luxurious silks and cosy chenilles whilst looking out at the vibrant metropolis.

From ASIATravelTips.com

The award recognizes outstanding design in the casino sector. The winner was judged on originality, innovative style, quality of materials and customer friendly environment.

Among all the hotels and casinos currently run in Macau, the Crown Macau is the first property to receive the “Best Interior Design” honor. The Crown Macau stood out from seven other contestants including the short-listed Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino as well as the Venetian Macau Resort to win the 2008 award.

The overall design concept of the Crown Macau was originated from the mastermind of the Co-Chairman and CEO of Melco PBL Entertainment (Macau) Limited, Lawrence Ho. “We saw a niche existed in Macau for a world-class contemporary and non-traditional luxurious hotel casino aiming to provide a 6-star experience to VIP customers,” said Ho. “Crown Macau is actually a collective result from various designers, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the designers and architects who helped to bring my ideas and vision to reality. Needless to say, this award also proved that all our efforts did not go in vain.”

Peter Remédios, a world-renowned and award-winning interior designer, is one of the designers who helped bringing Lawrence Ho’s ideas to life. Remédios also designed a number of high profile hotels including Four Seasons New York, Grand Hyatt Tokyo and Landmark Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong.

As one of the tallest buildings on Taipa Island, the Crown Macau is uniquely positioned to offer panoramic views of the Macau peninsula from its spectacular Sky Lobby on Level 38, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows featured in every guest room and suite.

From ASIATravelTips.com

Last week I spent Monday night at the Tanoa and Thursday night at the Novotel.

With the recent refurbishment of the Novotel, I thought you might appreciate some feedback.

From a room perspective, the furnishings, bedding and general ambience of the Novotel is far superior to the Tanoa.

At the Novotel, I was upgraded to a Deluxe room with a verandah that overlooked the golf course.

The TV programmes were a little better at the Tanoa - they have one or two extra channels.

The food was also a lot better at the Tanoa. You can still request an omelette that is cooked for you personally. The Novotel only offered pre cooked breakfast facilities, even the cappucino was made via a self use machine!

Check in and foyer areas are similar - Tanoa has a bar with a bit more atmosphere - the Novotel had a more shops and a reasonably good Senakai Spa. (Even got a treatment there at local rate!)

Our client Michelle Kiley says…

Best: Perfect location, set up/layout and service - the people running the resort were fantastic and the staff were brilliant - nothing was too much trouble - an amazing “family like”atmosphere. The Fijian people were the highlight. Wonderful food and wine No worst, although the diving equipment is suboptimal and for safety reasons this MUST be addressed.