Northstar

HOTELS www.travelweeklyweb.com New look from New World Hotels HONG KONG – New World Hotels in Manila, Shanghai and Dalian have undergone a US$72 million renovation programme that centres around the concept of space and creation of venues to allow guests the avenue for time and focus on what what's most meaningful to them. Among the key areas that have undergone the changes that were made to the interiors and looks of these hotels are the re-styled guestrooms and executive floors; innovative restaurants and lounges; carefully chosen art pieces and subtle, Oriental-influenced décor. In light of the makeover, the New World Makati Hotel will be renamed to New World Makati City, Manila Hotel. Designed by Singapore-based White Jacket, New World Makati Hotel has been extensively renovated including a refreshed arrival experience with new lobby and lounge, the top four floors re-designed to house executive club floors and lounge, and new, fully equipped function spaces and Events Gallery. The New World Dalian Hotel will feature its new versatile meeting spaces along with a new executive lounge. The 300-metre Liaoning Room for example, features a dedicated reception and foyer area, separate "break-out" room, an integrated buffet and coffee area, and adjacent relaxation room with sofas and television which can also serve as a bridal preparation room. From now till the end of 2013, guests are able to enjoy value-added "Bonus Stay" and "Weekend Welcome" offered at all New World Hotels. "Bonus Stay" offers guests a complimentary last night stay, full benefits of the executive lounge and one-way limousine transfer, for a minimum of three consecutive nights suite accommodation. "Weekend Welcome" features a complimentary second night with free parking, late check-out until 4pm and two cocktails or drinks per room per stay for guests checking in on Fridays or Saturdays. For further information or reservations, please contact your travel professional or visit www.newworldhotels.com. Investors eye Four Seasons Hotel Sydney SINGAPORE – The initial bids are not due for another six weeks, yet global investors are all eyeing on the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, circling the asset which is currently jointly marketed by Jones Lang LaSalle – Hotels & Hospitality Group and boutique agency firm, McVay Real Estate. "We have received substantial enquiry from across the globe, however interest has been strongest from South-east Asia, China, Korea and the Middle East. It is very encouraging for the Australian hotel market that this campaign has caught the attention of not only The function room at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney 12 | ■ TRAVELWEEKLY ASIA | MARCH 2013 traditional hotel investors but also a number of new groups that have not previously considered investing in this sector," said Craig Collins, chief executive officer, Australasia, Jones Lang LaSalle – Hotels & Hospitality Group. Collins added that this does not come as a surprise given that offshore entities accounted for 72 per cent of the AU$1.44 billion worth of hotels sold in Australia last year. In 2012, Hong Kong investors were the top buyers of Australian hotels, followed by Malaysia, Australia, Singapore and China. This year, the forecast for total hotel transaction volume has been adjusted from AU$1 billion to AU$1.2 billion. Overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House from its exceptional location in the Circular Quay precinct of the CBD, the world-renowned hotel is being sold following an extensive $44.5 million refurbishment program over the past few years. The 35 level property features 531 guest rooms, four food & beverage outlets, substantial conference & meeting facilities, health spa, numerous retail tenancies, underground car parking and an offsite commercial laundry. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts – a brand synonymous with luxury hotels world-wide, operates the hotel under a management agreement until 2026. "The Four Seasons Hotel presents a unique offering in the Australian hotel market, due to its unrivalled Sydney Harbour location, its world-class Four Seasons branding and its seven-day trading ability due to attracting both the business and leisure markets," said McVay. www.travelweeklyweb.com

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