points N places

The Standard - Iconic Hotel Chain Coming To Melbourne
4 Aug

Melbourne’s edgy, inner-city suburb of Fitzroy will soon play host to the Australian debut of global boutique brand, The Standard Hotels.

One of the world’s fastest growing boutique brands, The Standard prides itself on shaking up the establishment and defying convention to deliver a unique experience. The company says its careful consideration of design, detail and service has allowed it to cultivate a reputation or irreverent and playful sensibility.

To be located on Rose Street, The Standard Fitzroy will come to life as a 127-room hotel built over seven levels, with design cues inspired heavily by the local area and its long-standing industrial heritage.

The Standard, Fitzroy will be positioned right in the heart of Fitzroy’s bustling creative community, with a plethora of quirky and niche galleries, boutiques, markets, bars and cafes surrounding the new development. A location that suit well The Standard's youthful, energetic, design-focussed vibe.

Fitzroy’s history of corner pubs, workers cottages, grand housing and industry inspired the approach to the building’s façades. The weathered steel and concrete are robust, timeless materials that sit comfortably straight away and, over time, will add charm as they patina.

The Standard, Fitzroy is on track to open to guests in 2023.

Similar timing also applies to The Standard, Singapore.

Both will supplement the existing portfolio of properties in NYC, Ibiza, Maldives, Hua Hin, Bangkok, Miami Beach and London.

Bonza Debut Flight Touches Down | Milestone Tick
2 Aug

Bonza’s first 737 MAX aircraft touched down at Sunshine Coast Airport yesterday morning marking a major milestone for Australia’s newest low-cost carrier. 

It is the first Boeing 737 MAX to be based in Australia and will be part of a fleet of aircraft based initially on the Sunshine Coast and in Melbourne.  Additional aircraft will follow and ultimately support Bonza’s growth plans beyond its initial bases. The airline is calling out to help name the plane by asking for comments on Bonza’s Instagram and Facebook pages with their nicknames.

The initial network is 17 destinations on 27 routes. Ninety-three per cent of the routes are currently not serviced by another airline (25 out of 27 routes) and 96 per cent are not currently served by a low-cost carrier.

Bonza says that flights are expected to start from around AU$50 for each hour a customer is in the air and eight kilograms of carry-on baggage will be included in the flight price.

To achieve their low-cost strategy, Australians are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which will be the only place to book directly. The airline’s ‘app first’ strategy means flights will not be available for purchase on third-party websites allowing Bonza to communicate directly with customers about their upcoming flights. In addition to booking and check-in, the Fly Bonza app is also where customers can order food and drink from the menu directly to their seats and enjoy the in-flight entertainment. 

Congratulations to all at the Bonza team!

Pssst! Kimpton Secret Password Valid Through Early September 2022
2 Aug

Now through 5 September 2022, mention the secret password “Stay Cool” at check-in to score perks and other benefits when staying at Kimpton Hotels (which are part of IHG).

Perks range by property, but can be free parking, a free breakfast, or a free room upgrade, etc.

In addition, Kimpton is now offering travellers an “emotional support beverage” at check-in if your arrival flight was cancelled or delayed. Very considerate !

Kimpton is one of our favoured brands. Lovely properties, great service and a few quirks like the above and their very pet-friendly approach for authentic, brand-consistent touches of individualty.

my Barcelo members Can Have A Sunny Break & Save Up To 35% Off
29 Jul

Members of my Barceló, have priority access to Happy Days offers, an exclusive Barcelo­ Hotels event running until 3 August with unique discounts on hotels and resorts.

Get up to 25% off bookings in destinations such as Andalusia, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands and the Caribbean.

Plus, get an extra 10% discount by entering the promo code 22HAPPYB10 when making your booking.

Not yet a member, but want to take advantage?  Join my Barcelo first - it's free.

T&C's apply, including restrictions in some hotels and during specific periods. Check offer conditions at Barcelo­.com Read More…