Sofitel Luxury Hotels Opens First Abu Dhabi Hotel
Sofitel Luxury Hotels has opened its first Abu Dhabi hotel and its second property in the United Arab Emirates.
The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche is located on the seafront on the eastern tip of Abu Dhabis Corniche and tourists staying at the new property will have access to Saadiyat Island and Yas Island.
The latest addition to the already reputable collection of luxury Abu Dhabi hotels is part of the new Capital Plaza Complex and the building boasts contemporary architecture and design.
The chief executive of Sofitel Worldwide, Robert Gaymer-Jones, commented: I am particularly happy to be welcoming this new flagship hotel to our network.
The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche is a precious asset for the brand both in the Middle East and internationally.
In addition to its strategic location in Abu Dhabi, its design based on contemporary art with some well-known French artists has ensured that this establishment is totally in line with the country strategic positioning.
When guests of the new hotel first arrive to their holidays in Abu Dhabi, they will be greeted in the lobby which features beautiful paintings from Pierre Soulages, a French artist known as the painter of black, as well as lithographs from Jean Cocteau and sculptures inspired by Brancusi.
The luxury hotel has 282 rooms and suites with modern dcor, furnishings and amenities, plus facilities including the Club Millesime Lounge, three gourmet restaurants with a wide choice of international and regional cuisine, three elegant bars, and 2,600-square-metres of meeting space.
During Abu Dhabi holidays at the Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche guests can walk across the bridge and head to Saadiyat Island, an up and coming world class leisure, residential, business and tourism hub. The natural island spans 27-square-kilometres of land, and development is being carried out in different stages until 2020.
The island is home to iconic landmarks; marinas with berths for up to 1,000 boats; two championship golf courses; civic and leisure facilities; over three million square-metres of office space; sea-view residential apartments and villas; luxury hotels; and tourist attractions such as the Guggenheim and the Louvre museums, the Zayed National Museum and the Manarat Al Saadiyat visitor centre.
Holidaymakers can also reach Yas Island from the new hotel in Abu Dhabi where they can visit Yas Marina, Yas Marina Circuit, and Ferrari World.
Haridwar, Udaipur And Coimbatore Info About Attractions And Hotels
This article lays down an account of 3 popular tourist destinations in India in Haridwar, Udaipur and Coimbatore. Information is provided on the major attractions and travel deals which ensure hassle-free booking of Haridwar hotels, Udaipur hotels and Coimbatore hotels.
Haridwar is a massively popular spiritual destination which is flocked by travelers and salvation-seekers from all over the planet. Right from the devout Hindu pilgrims to the wise sages to foreigners, you can bump into all kinds of people here. The town known for its pious Ganga ghats and the religious temples is situated in the heart of Uttarakhand in northern India. The town appears to be crowded because of the surge of humanity from various pockets of the country. However, there are enough rooms in Haridwar hotels to accommodate this rabble of visitors.
Haridwars biggest attraction is the ghat of Har Ki Pauri. This place is sprinkled with holiness and will make you feel as if you are standing in the abode of God. The sunrise witnesses the morning bath taken by hundreds on the Ganga. It is believed that a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga can wash away all the sins committed in your lifetime. The sunset, on the other hand, witnesses the visually stimulating ritual of Ganga aarti and floating of earthen lamps on the river.
Another must-visit place in the town is the Mansa Devi Temple. The temple is located atop a hill and one can also access it via ropeway. It is believed that this is a wish-granting temple. You can make a wish before the Goddess Mansa who will fulfill it in due course of time.
Haridwar hotels come in various forms (from deluxe ones to the budget ones) to help you settle down comfortably. Some recommended names include Hotel Classic Residency, Sagar Ganga Resort and Hotel Arjun.
Another great Indian destination is Udaipur, the land of lakes, palaces & forts in the state of Rajasthan. It was once ruled by the royal rulers of the north and now serves as one of the most regal, luxurious and romantic destinations on the globe. Udaipur hotels spell class and sophistication. This is the city which draws not just commoners but also celebs because of its historical legacy, nostalgic charms and haveli-turned-hotels.
Amongst the chief attractions of the town, Lake Pichola, City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jag Mandir Palace and Saheliyon ki Bari are noteworthy. This is one city which will truly blur the gap between the past and the present, as you are flown into the old bygone world of Rajputs.
Udaipur can be visited anytime during the year though the autumn-spring season is preferable. The luxurious Udaipur hotels include names like Taj Lake Palace, Devigarh Resort and Udai Villas.
If you want to wade into a smaller town which is beautifully landscaped and has its unique culture, then head to the city of Coimbatore in the state of Tamil Nadu in south India. It has a number of sightseeing attractions including temples, hills, lakes and parks. Prominent ones include Black Thunder, Koniamman Temple, Maruthamalai Murugan Temple, Nilgiri Hills and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Coimbatore hotels come in a wide range to suit your budget. CAG Pride hotel (mid-range), Park Plaza (luxury) and Legends Inn (budget) are some notable Coimbatore hotels where you can drop in.
[Top]Star Hotels In Phuket Phuket Island Beach Villa Phuket
Want to have exciting recreational holidays? Choosing a charming beach with a resort is a great holiday destination for families, groups, wedding parties, couples and singles. You can choose from many exotic beaches. These beach holidays are perfect for a personalized vacation in a soothing locale.
One of such kind resorts is Jumeirah Phuket Private Island Resort. It is located less than 500m off the northeast shore of Phuket, Thailand. Jumeirah Phuket Private Island Resort will be situated on the shores of Koh Raet, an untouched tropical island located just 500 metres offshore from Ao Po Bay, north east of Phuket Island in Thailand, providing easy access for guests to the main tourist areas of Phuket Island. The resort can be reached by a four minute private motor yacht ride or island ferry from the access point on the mainland which is located just fifteen minutes from Phuket International Airport. The Jumeirah Private Island Phuket Resort features 65 lavishly appointed deluxe pool villas, each with a private infinity pool and Jacuzzi, and 12 three-bedroom luxury residential villas.
Jumeirah properties are regarded as among the most luxurious and innovative in the world and have won numerous international travel and tourism awards. The Dubai based luxury international hospitality group encompasses the world renowned Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel, the multi-award winning Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Jumeirah Beach Club Resort and Spa, Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.
Jumeirah Island is surrounded with natural scenic beauty. These Phuket villas offer impressive facilities of a six-star hotel, including a world-class Spa and restaurants, its excellent location that gets you the Phuket’s first-rate infrastructure, including shopping and entertainment facilities, schools and hospitals.
Phuket is famous for its tourism and Thai culture of hospitality. It also provides you international cuisines. Jumeirah Phuket Private Island Resorts are the most exclusive with 5 star boutique hotel, spa and wellness centre, marina and private berth with maximum sea views. Jumeirah island villas offer ample source of recreational activities. There is an option to stay in a residential estate or in a beach villa. These luxurious beach villas are with a yatch club membership, and also lifetime membership at Blue Canyon Golf and Country Club. Jumeirah beach villas offer direct beach access and open sea views, and are set in their own luxurious tropical grounds with private pool.
[Top]Meru Kenya Town Hotels, Accommodation And Lodges
Located on the Eastern slopes of Mt Kenya, Meru has hotels that can be classified as town hotels and luxury lodges. In Meru National park accommodation is offered by luxury lodges, budget bandas and campsites. The town is catered for by town hotels in the categories of mid range and budget properties. Luxury lodges in the park like Leopard Rock, Elsa’s Kopje and offbeat will cost on average 800-1000 dollars per night on full board basis for double room, while mid range hotels in Meru town will cost on average Ksh 2500 per night.
Luxury properties in Meru include, Signature Hotel, Mwangaza White House Hotel and Gatimene Palm Springs. Located near Nakumatt, the Ornate signature Hotel has set up new standards for luxury hotels not only in Meru but the whole of Mt Kenya region. Neighboring Simba Wells Restaurant is the Mwangaza White House Hotel. From the hotel Balcony one enjoys Panoramic views of Nyambene Hills. The luxury Senator Suite at Mwangaza complete with a sauna machine and a treadmill goes for about Ksh 7000 per night. Single rooms will cost about Ksh 4000 per night for bed and Breakfast.
In a class of its own is the Gatimene Palm Springs. Located along the Meru Maua Road at Kaaga the hotel Luxury suites going for between Ksh 8000 to Ksh 10000 per night on BB. The hotels has a well tended garden where guests can relax and enjoy their meals. NOTE: Some of the hotel owners are very sensitive when it comes to photography. Do not ask me why.
Mid range properties in Meru town include, Meru Slopes Hotel (from KES 4000 per night), Nevada Palace Hotel, West Wind Hotel, County Hotel, The Blue towers, The white star, Hotel Royal prince, Safari Hotel, Hotel incredible and Hotel three steers. Budget properties in town are Brown rock, Ntugi lodge, Pig and Whistle, Hotel Milimani, Stansted hotel and Jaslee Guest House.
Slightly outside of town you will find, The Spa, Thiiri Centre, Camp David and
Rocky inn. Only Thiiri centre offers mid range accommodation.
Though budget in nature, Thiiri Centre is the only property in Meru with a swimming pool (Other swimming pools are to be found at Freds Academy and Meru Golf Club). Thiiri also has an expansive garden ideal for weddings and other outdoor meetings. It also has conference room, cyber cafe. Being a cultural centre at Thiiri is an ideal place to visit if you want to learn about culture. Music lessons are conducted daily.
The Nevada is among the new property in Meru Town. It is located at Makutano. It has well appointed rooms -Singles or Doubles going for between Ksh 1800 and Ksh 3500 for BB. The hotel also has conference facilities and secure parking.
Also new is the Meru West Wind Hotel. Located along the Meru Mau Road. It has exceptionally clean double single or twin rooms, private parking, conference facilities and secure parking. Conference is free to residing guests. Rooms go for about Ksh 2000-Ksh 4000 on BB
The Meru County.
Located in the town centre along Meru Nanyuki/Isiolo road opp district headquarters. Hotel has conference facilities, restaurant, bar, Nyama choma ranch. Room Rates on BB are Single Ksh 1500; Double Ksh 2500; Delux single Ksh 2000 ; Delux double Ksh 3000; Studio Suite Single Ksh 2500; Double Ksh 3500 ;Junior suite Single Ksh 3500; Double ksh 4000
Executive Suite Ksh 5000
Blue Towers hotel
Located at Makutano on Meru Mau Junction. Rooms with Tv, private bath with showers or bathtub. Suites have two bed rooms and writing table. Hotel has conference facilities, fitness centre, car park. No beer served.
Room Rates BB-Single Ksh 1500; Doubel ksh 2000; Delux Double occupancy 2300; Suite Double occupancy 2800
White Star hotel
Along Meru Mau Road. Hotel has conference facilities, conference room, restaurant. No beer served. Hotel rooms have private bath with showers, satellite tv. Room Rates BB-Single Ksh 1500; Doubel ksh 2000; Delux Double occupancy 2300
Three Steers Hotel
Located at Makutano. Hotel has conference facilities, restaurant, bar. Rooms are well appointed, individually built with private showers.
Room Rate BB (Approximately)-Single Ksh 1600, Double Ksh 2000
Inside Meru National park, one can get accommodation at the luxury game lodges of Leopard Rock, Elsa’s Kopje and Offbeat Camp. These will cost you USD 500 per night on full board double. Budget accommodation is provide by Kws bandas at Kina, Murera and bwatherongi. Bandas cost ksh 3500 and you need to organize your own meals. Murera bandas, located on the banks of Murera river have swimming pool and a campsite.
[Top]Hospitality Industry Hotels Business Current And Future Trends
Hospitality has long been synonymous with the hotel industry. Any changes in trends of hotel business have wide scale implications on an otherwise diverse industry. What might be an opportunity for a traveler can be a matter of survival for hotels? It will not be an oversimplification to suggest that the emerging concepts in hotel industry reveal an atmosphere of stiff competition. Here is a look at a few major issues:
Is Green better?
Amid growing concern over environment friendly services, a majority of travelers now prefer Green and Eco lodgings. Recent surveys by trade associations such as Partnership Travel Industry Association and online retailers like Yahoo revealed that nearly seventy percent of the tourists are willing to pay extra when it comes to environmental friendly lodgings. These surveys further revealed that these guests will pay anywhere from nine to ten percent premium on the already advertised prices.
What can be stated as a welcome relief for the educated traveler might pose real challenges for the hotel business. To better understand the scenario, it should be noted that hotels are presently facing severe shortages in occupancy rates which are at their lowest since 1971. Such a crisis and lack of funds can definitely hamper any efforts to install appliances that comply with the LEEDS standards (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design). Some experts agree that a trade off may lead hotels into removing free amenities that include little bottles of shampoos, jams and free basket of fruits; all of which are the hallmark of these eco lodgings.
Where are the Workers gone?
The hotel industry gives employment at a very large proportion of part time workers, who after gaining substantial experience, leave for other lucrative jobs at restaurants and outdoors. Low wages in the hotel industry is one of the primary reasons for low retention rates.
Hotel industry Gurus are already thinking of ways to attract and retain qualified workers by increasing the pay scales and by reducing the long working hours. The top management is now devising constructive methods that will retain the existing workers by sponsoring education and creating attractive career paths.
Mega Hotels
The rising cost of construction and a struggling real estate has prompted hoteliers to deploy the pre-fabricated and cost effective solution in the construction of new hotels. In fact they are fighting back by producing highly efficient designs that utilize a greater proportion of space for revenue generating purpose. Future trends in the hotel construction will seek to maximize the use of building areas by constructing a multi purpose facility that will include Casinos, shopping outlets and Theatres. The stand alone hotel concept is likely to vanish as the new properties will be constructed as a mixed use development to provide guests with facilities such as Church, Hospitals and Theme Parks. Such a variety will ensure that guests remain at one spot which will help generate revenue for the entire hotel complex.
The evolution of savvy traveller
The evolution of internet has given rise to a phenomenon where travelers are becoming ever more demanding. Industry professionals suggest that an increase in a trend, to review properties online, will make travelers less forgiving as they are able to post their travel experiences. Such an overemphasis on web may even lead to stiff competition and price reduction strategies where only large players may be able to survive.
To ward of such threats, the small business owner is now turning towards opening a boutique establishment as an alternate to 70,s style motels. Such niche properties are popping up everywhere by advertising a more personalized “home away from home” kind of experience. The introduction of such boutique properties has also given rise to the popular and widely accepted theme of modern hostels. These hostels are keen to provide a clean and safe environment for budget conscious travelers. Their goal is to wipe out the myths associated with cheap motels and dingy guesthouses.
Whatever may be the case, one thing is for sure that constant remodeling of the hotel industry has made it more functional and practical not only for the guests but also for the hotel owners.
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